As mobile devices and smartphones have become more common, new possibilities and new challenges have arisen. One of the greatest challenges is information security, the importance of which is emphasised as the amount of data and ways of using the systems are expanding. Although the importance of technical information security must not be underestimated, a large part of information security consists of the user’s own actions.
These instructions include the best practices concerning the security of smartphones. This list is not designed to be a comprehensive set of information security instructions, but more as an easy-to-read checklist of things to remember. You can find more help from this instructions site by using, for example, the search. If you cannot solve the problem with the instructions, don’t hesitate to contact the IT Helpdesk.
Deployment of a smartphone
Please remember that the University’s terms of use also apply to the use of the University’s mobile devices. The mobile device, similar to computers, is meant to be used as a tool in studying, research and management. Minor use for personal purposes is allowed. In addition, it is important to remember that storing material that infringes copyrights in a phone or anywhere else in the University is forbidden.
Microsoft 365 mobile devices
If your phone gets lost or stolen
What to do if your phone is stolen
If you suspect that your phone has been stolen, act as quickly as possible. This will protect your personal and university data from misuse.
Change your passwords
Change at least the password of your university username immediately. If you have stored other login details on your phone (e.g. email, online banking, social media), change those passwords as well.
- Change your password immediately via the MyAccount service.
- Read more about the MyAccount service in the separate instructions.
Report the crime
Report the theft of your phone to the police as soon as possible. Keep a record of the report for any insurance claims and for future investigations.
Report the incident to Helpdesk
Remote device tracking and wiping
If remote management or device tracking is enabled on the phone, try to locate the device and lock or wipe it remotely.
- See Apple’s own instructions for the iPhone: Find My service.
- See Android’s own instructions: Find My Device service.
Remote wiping deletes the phone’s data and reduces the risk of data misuse.
Further information
Multifactor Authentication (MFA)
Multifactor Authentication (MFA) is used at the University. With MFA, the University can secure user accounts better than before and, at the same time, significantly improve the University’s information security.
Give feedback
The instructions site of the University of Helsinki's IT Helpdesk helps you with IT-related issues related to your work. Let us know how we can improve our instructions. We greatly appreciate your feedback!
How would you improve these instructions?