Securing Your Android Data

This page represents Step Two (of three)
from Mobile Security for Android Devices.

 

Secure your Android data by performing all of the following procedures:

Assess Your Data Security Requirements

See the NC State Endpoint Protection Standard for details regarding any additional security controls you must comply with.

Encrypt Sensitive University Data

Use encryption software or built-in encryption options on the device to protect sensitive university data.

To encrypt all data on your device

Choose one or more of the following ways to perform this procedure:

See the video.

Search the Settings:  encrypt

Navigate and tap:  Settings > Security > Advanced > Encryption

Back Up Your Data

Android backup and restore features are less than ideal — typically relying on each app to determine how to back up and restore its data.  

That said, choose the backup method you prefer:

To prevent the loss of any data stored on your device, create an appointment to back up all data regularly, for example, once a day. Consider using multiple backup mechanisms. If you travel, take with you a portable backup device (carried separately and similarly secured).

To back up to Google Drive

Choose one or more of the following ways to perform this procedure:

See the video.

Search the Settings:  backup, back up, restore

Navigate and tap:  Settings > Cloud and Accounts (or Google) > Backup 

To back up to a computer

  1. Use a USB cable to connect your Android to a computer or laptop. After connecting the USB cable, a notification will appear on your device. To see the notification, swipe down from the top of your screen.
  2. Use the notification to change from Charging this device to File transfer and copy your important files.

Protect Your Password

  1. Disable Password Display — When you are entering passwords, passphrases or PINs, you don’t want anyone peering over your shoulder.  Use this procedure to disable password visibility.
  2. Disable Password Storage — While storing your password on the device may seem easier, it will make the device too easy to hack.  You could lose your data and the use of your device entirely.
  3. Use a Password Manager and 2FA — If you need to store passwords on your device, record them in a secure password manager.

To disable password display

Choose one or more of the following ways to perform this procedure:

See the video.

Search the Settings:  password, passwords, show ,display

Navigate and disable password visibility:  Settings > Security > Other > Passwords

NOTE:  Disable the remember password feature on your device.

To disable password storage

Choose one or more of the following ways to perform this procedure:

See the video.

Search the Settings:  password, passwords, Smart Lock

Navigate and disable:  Settings > Google > Smart Lock for Passwords

Use a Password Manager and 2FA

If you need to store passwords on your device:

  1. Record them in a secure password manager.  NC State recommends LastPass. For help setting up and using LastPass, consult with your Security Liaison, LanTech, or IT organization.
  2. Enroll in Two-Factor Authentication (2FA).

Next Step

After completing all procedures from this page, continue with Securing Your Wireless Connections or return to Mobile Security for Android Devices.