Editorial: Security software a smart decision

I use my smartphone for all my internet needs.

If I'm Googling something, ordering food, downloading music, editing videos, transferring money, buying things online or checking my social networking accounts, it's all done on the internet, through my phone.

I barely touch a computer at home anymore. It kind of seems pointless when I have a mini computer that fits in my pocket and is easy to carry around.

But considering it's a portable mini-computer, it's also important to have security software installed for your own safety.

I remember when I bought my smartphone, I asked staff at the store whether it came with security software or which software they recommended I use. They told me I didn't really need it and they didn't really see the point of it. I was a little confused and, thinking back, I'm now wondering if they knew exactly what I was asking them.

Contrary to what they told me, I installed Norton Security software anyway. It's better to be safe than sorry.

As our story today about cyber criminals says, security software for your smartphone is just as important as security software for your PC or laptop because no matter what the device, if you are using the internet, the risks are the same.

A quick survey of newsroom staff showed I was one of the very few who had security software on my smartphone. Because I rely on my phone so much, it seems right to protect it however I can. I've got a screen cover and a phone case, so why not protect the information stored inside it too? There is so much information in there that is important to my life and I'm sure it's the same for everyone else with a smartphone.

If you haven't installed security software on your smartphone yet, make sure you do it as soon as possible. Check your app store for your options - if you don't want to pay for it, there are free options too.