Mobile data backup 101
Last update: January 25, 2024 Getting ready to change cell phones? Is your current phone showing signs of aging and may soon die on you? Here are various ways you can transfer data from one phone to another or save it in a secure location—and enjoy peace of mind, no matter what happens to your device. What is a data backup? Backing up a cell phone means transferring data (photos, contacts, call history, settings, etc.) from your device to a different location for storage. Different backup methods allow you to save different types of data. The purpose is to have an extra layer of security that allows you to recover the content on your phone and transfer it to a new device. It's important to choose the best method for your specific needs. 1. Cloud backup In addition to providing a convenient backup solution, the cloud lets you sync your content across multiple devices. Simply create an account on the platform of your choice, based on your mobile device: iCloud (Apple) Samsung Cloud Google Drive Then, depending on the platform, determine what you want to save to the cloud and how often. Pro tip: Find out how much free storage you get. It may be worthwhile to purchase a subscription for more storage capacity. 2. Backing up data directly on a computer A traditional backup technique is using a USB cable to save your phone’s data to a computer. Here’s how you do it: Connect your phone to your computer using the USB cable that came with your mobile device. This will give you access to your phone’s storage and allow you to transfer photos, videos and even songs directly from your cell phone onto your computer. The procedure is very similar to using a USB key. Once the USB cable is connected, your computer should recognize your phone as a new hardware device. Now you should be able to access the files on your cell phone. To complete the backup, simply save copies of your photos and videos onto your computer. Pro tip: This technique allows you to transfer photos, videos and music only. You won’t be able to transfer other information, such as your contact list. 3. Backing up data using transfer/backup software If you want more options for phone-to-computer backup, your best choice is a software solution. The new phone you purchased is the same brand as your previous device? The software allows you to transfer more content such as contacts, photos, apps and sometimes even more. It’s important to note, however, that transferable content varies from software to software. Most cell phone manufacturers have a program that you can install on your computer. The steps to follow can vary from one company to another, but the basic principle is the same. Download and install the transfer software. Apple Samsung LG Huawei Once the software is installed, connect your phone to your computer. Follow the instructions to back up your data or transfer content to a new phone. Essentially, using software is a better solution if you want to save more than just photos and videos. It also guarantees a faster transition when you switch phones of the same brand. Pro tip: Consider backing up your phone data every time you add new content that’s important to you. After all, data saved on your computer six months ago will not contain any new contacts or photos added since then. Make it a habit to back up your data regularly! We’ve seen some of the different ways you can transfer data from your phone to your computer. Have questions about this topic? Feel free to ask in the Community Forum!
Unable to access mobility page to pay bill.
Helix side opens up just fine for internet and I am able to pay my bill there. But the site denies me access to mobility. I have two phones. edit: this is the message that i get Blocked access NOTICE Sorry, you cannot view this page. Please make sure that you are subscribed to this service and that your user profile has the required access rights.How to protect yourself against SIM swapping
SIM swap, the latest fraud technique, happens when a hacker is able to transfer your mobile phone number to another SIM card in their possession thereby securing their exclusive use of your number and in doing so, part of your identity. Fraudsters can physically change it if they have access to your phone or do so remotely by calling your mobile phone provider to impersonate you and activate a new SIM card. How do you find out if you've been the victim of a SIM swap? A SIM card is the bridge between your mobile device, your number and your provider. You may have already had to ask to swap your SIM card yourself either because you lost your device or changed to another mobile service provider. Your phone number then was legitimately transferred to a new SIM card. However, if you’re the victim of fraud via a SIM swap, your mobile device could suddenly lose its connection to the cellphone network you’re subscribing to. So you won’t get any more calls, texts or emails because now the hacker is receiving them on their device. The fraudster can also reset your passwords and access your online accounts to use them as they please, especially when your phone number is used as an authentication factor or for recovering your accounts. How can you protect yourself from this type of fraud? To avoid making yourself an easy target for fraudsters, here are a few tips to improve security for your SIM card: Add a complicated PIN to lock your SIM card and keep it secret. Choose complex usernames and passwords that are different across all your accounts (emails, social networks, banks, government, etc.). Use two-factor authentication that is more secure than emails or texts, for example a security key or an app like Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator. Make sure you’re not needlessly sharing personal details. Your birthday, phone number, card numbers, driver’s licence numbers, subscriptions numbers or any other number should remain confidential and should not appear in your emails or on social networks. Be vigilant when it comes to phishing attempts by email, text or phone. Never give out personal information through those means. What do you do if you’re the victim of SIM swapping? To report the fraud, contact the police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. Warn your financial institution and have them block your credit cards to protect your accounts. You can also apply to credit assessment agencies to make sure this fraud is recorded in your file. Videotron cares about your safety. If you realize that hacker has swapped your SIM card, go to a store with your IDs so our representatives can quickly remedy the situation and replace your SIM card. Find a store
