McAfee tips on how to secure devices from online threats

McAfee is advising consumers to live their digital life more confidently by issuing tips to help consumers secure their devices, as this year tablets and smartphones are likely to be at the top of many holiday wish lists, but excited consumers should think twice before immediately loading personal data, contact information, photos and applications to their new devices .

Cyber criminals continue to widen their nets to target even more devices and platforms as new devices come on the market and gain popularity. McAfee Labs reports that smishing (or phishing text messages), PC, Mac, and mobile device malware , and malicious mobile websites are on the rise. These increases complement Android's hyper-growth and give it the distinction of being the most targeted operating system for mobile threats. Wireless devices also present the risk of being hijacked by hackers when used over public Wi-Fi when networks are not secure.

Additionally, children are acquiring more gaming and entertainment devices than ever, including iPads, Xbox 360and Nintendo Wii, all of which are internet-connected.

Gary Davis, VP, global consumer marketing at McAfee said, "With the increased amount of devices per person and household, comes the increased chance of cybercriminals gaining access and stealing personal information and data. Consumers deserve to have confidence that they can live their digital lives sharing any information, from anywhere and on any device without the risk of an attack or scam. The best way to ensure this is to take the time to secure their personal data as soon as they open their new tech gifts."

McAfee encourages consumers to take some simple precautions to keep their digital lives and devices safe through the holidays and into 2013:

Be careful of the third-party applications you install. Only download applications from a reputable app store, and read users reviews. Phishing text messages, known as "SMiShing," are on the rise. Never send personal information via text. You should also protect data on your phone by backing it up on a regular basis.

Apply system or application updates and turn off antennas you don't need. Be aware of "scareware" and "ransomware." Scareware tricks users into believing that the computer may be infected to get them to "buy" fake antivirus software and hand over their personal and financial details, usually via pop-ups. Ransomware also appears through pop-ups, and typically accuses Web surfers of visiting illegal webpages.