SANS Assessment of Student Learning Plan (ASLP) Security Awareness Training

Which practice is advisable for maintaining mobile device security?

1. Using the same password for multiple accounts

2. Setting up biometric authentication

3. Ignoring software updates

4. Disabling screen lock

The correct answer is: Setting up biometric authentication

Using biometric authentication is a highly advisable practice for maintaining mobile device security because it adds an additional layer of protection that is more difficult for unauthorized users to bypass. Biometric authentication generally includes technologies such as fingerprint scanning, facial recognition, or iris scanning, which verify the identity of the user based on unique physical characteristics. This means that even if someone has access to your device, simply having physical possession of it won't grant them access without the corresponding biometric data. In contrast, using the same password for multiple accounts significantly weakens security, as it creates a single point of failure if one account is breached. Ignoring software updates leaves devices vulnerable to known security flaws that updates are specifically designed to address. Disabling screen lock removes a fundamental barrier that protects access to personal data, making it easier for unauthorized individuals to gain access to the device. Thus, setting up biometric authentication serves to fortify mobile device security effectively by ensuring that only authorized users can access the device and its data.