Tips for Cell Phone Safety and Privacy

Cell phones are a necessity of life for some individuals. Many people have their cell phones on their person at all times of the day. It would not be a stretch to say that the cell phone has become an every day accessory much like a watch or a wallet. However, many people overlook the fact that there are possible dangers associated with cell phone use in addition to the issues of privacy that include possible identity theft and tracking.

The number one safety issue with cell phones is the use of a cell phone while driving. Studies have shown that talking on the phone while driving can cause one’s ability to drive to become impaired to the point that it is much the same as driving while intoxicated. Of course any one will tell you that they are perfectly aware of what is happening when they are talking on the phone while driving, but also consider those who text message, look up contacts, or dial numbers while driving. There are serious dangers there. This is why several states and individual counties within other states have issued bans on talking on the phone while driving or has at least issued the requirement to have a headset or hands free cell phone.

Other issues directly related to cell phone safety include not using a cell phone while on a plane or in a hospital as cell phones can interfere with aircraft equipment and medical devices. You will also find that for safety reasons the use of cell phones at gas stations is not permitted. Cell phone batteries can also pose a safety risk if they are not well maintained. A broken, cracked, water damaged or otherwise compromised phone battery can actually explode if the right circumstances exist. The best thing to do is to replace your battery if it has been damaged. Cell phones could also pose a safety risk to those who wear pacemakers. It is suggested that those with pace makers do not store their cell phones in their breast pocket as it is advised that the cell phone be at least six inches away from pacemakers at all times.

The great majority of us will not have to deal with serious privacy issues when it comes to the use of our cell phones. However, it is wise to do all that is necessary to lower your risk of becoming a victim. If your phone allows you to put a password lock on the personal information contained therein make sure that you do so. This way if your phone is ever stolen, the thief will not be able to access your information without the password. Some cell phone carriers have the ability to lock or erase the data on your phone remotely if you believe that your privacy has been compromised.

Protecting yourself from cell phone privacy issues is especially important if you have a cell phone that is also a part of a PDA, Palm Pilot or BlackBerry phone as these devices are likely to contain more valuable information than cell phones alone. Many people manage their finances, conduct business, or have delicate private conversations that they would rather not have eavesdroppers listening to. If you have a device that can be synchronized with your computer make sure that when you synchronize your cell phone with your computer that you are not making yourself susceptible to viruses. Uploading a virus from your computer to your cell phone opens the door to prying eyes or destructive viruses. The best preventative measure to take to protect your privacy is to simply never download or install anything unfamiliar on your phone.