OVERVIEW
Target audience: McGill faculty, students and staff
This article explains the importance of locking your device to protect it in case of loss or theft.
In this article:
Lock your devices
Leaving your devices on and unlocked when you are not using them is a security risk. Whenever a device is left unattended, it should be locked. Enabling a lock can protect both your data and University systems from being compromised by unauthorized users.
What is a Screen Lock?
A screen lock is a security feature that helps protect your mobile device in case you lose it or the device is stolen. A screen lock prevents an unauthorized individual from accessing your device by requiring a specific action to unlock it.
Examples of Common Screen Locks:
- Password
- Numerical code or PIN
- Swipe pattern
- Facial recognition
- Fingerprint scan
Tip: Enabling a strong, automatic screen lock greatly increases the security of your device if it is lost or stolen.
- Be sure to configure your screen lock so it automatically locks after a short period of inactivity.
- If you use a PIN, password, or swipe pattern, use one that is unique and a different one for each device to own, and make it as hard to guess as possible (if you’ve posted your cat’s birthday on social media, don’t use it as your PIN!).
How can I lock my device?
- Set screen lock on an Android device
- Set up your Mac to be secure
- Use a passcode with your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch
- Windows sign-in options and account protection
I lost my device, how do I remotely lock it or wipe it?
ADDITIONAL REFERENCES:
- Take the Cyber Security Essentials Course
- New device checklist
- Secure your journey: https://www.mcgill.ca/cybersafe/
