14 DAY TRIAL // Following AT&T's 3G network servicing breach, RESCUECOM, which provides computer repair and support, has issued five tips to protect personal data for users of an Apple iPad. Although AT&T claims the breach is closed, RESCUECOM CEO David A. Milman insists that users protect themselves with the steps to follow.
“While most[ly] everyone is aware that security is important, very few of us understand what goes into securing the software, hardware, and networks that contain our most valuable asset, our identity,” David A. Milman states. “AT&T's breach is a perfect example of how at risk we are.”
The RESCUECOM report then proceeds to enumerate the steps in question, beginning with turning off the 3G Network on the iPad. The company acknowledges that, “AT&T has stated that there is no more threat to customers. However, turning off 3G wireless Internet service, at least temporarily, will protect an individual's personal data from any further attack.”
Requesting a new SIM from AT&T is also listed as a safety measure. “Changing the SIM card would change the ICC-ID as well, rendering that information useless,” RESCUECOM explains. While iPad customers should always ensure that any email purporting to be from Apple or AT&T is indeed from the two giant companies, a more radical precaution is proposed as well – “Change your email.”
According to RESCUECOM, “The simplest solution is to stop using the compromised e-mail address. AT&T states the only information illicitly obtained was user's e-mail addresses. Changing your address would eliminate this threat.” RESCUECOM urges customers to also note that, “The real companies never ask for personal or login information in an e-mail.”
The fifth and final step iPad owners should take to ensure they keep their information private is “Be careful what you use the iPad for.” Although there are countless iPhone OS applications that act as tools to make transactions, store passwords and so on, RESCUECOM’s advice is, “Avoid tasks such as mobile banking or anything that transmits personal information, especially when on a 3G network.”
The company is more than willing to offer its services to any iPad owner who feels that their personal data may have been compromised, the report reveals. Milman reminds those who are yet to purchase an iPad that, “As with all new technology, RESCUECOM recommends waiting at least six months for the manufacturer to work the major bugs out of the system.”