So you got a new Kindle Fire!  OU Information Technology has some recommendations for staying safe on your Kindle Fire.

Stay Safe on Public Wireless Networks

Avoid using your Kindle Fire on public wireless networks.  If you must use your Kindle Fire on a public wireless network, avoid checking your email and avoid making Amazon purchases.  A determined bad guy located nearby could intercept your password or Amazon account information.  Generally avoid typing in any sensitive information when on a public wireless network.

Disable Wireless When Not Needed

When you don’t need an Internet connection, disable wireless on your device.  To do this, tap the Quick Settings gear icon  in the status bar, then tap “Wi-Fi”, and then select “off.”  This will prevent your device from automatically joining public wireless networks and can help save battery life.

Set a Device Password

Create a device password to restrict access to your Kindle Fire.  This will help protect your device from unauthorized physical access.  To set a password, tap the Quick Settings gear icon in the status bar, then tap “More…” to access additional settings, and then select “Security” to set a device password.

Are there Viruses for the Kindle Fire?  Do I need Antivirus or a Firewall?

The Kindle Fire is a modified version of Google’s Android tablet.  Viruses are introduced on Android tablets when users download apps from untrusted app stores or untrusted websites.  The user thinks they are downloading a trustworthy app, but in fact they are downloading a virus.  By default on the Kindle Fire you can only download apps from Amazon’s tightly controlled app store.  Amazon reviews all apps before they are allowed on the Amazon App Store, so your risk of contracting a virus on your Kindle Fire is minimal.

However, there is a setting that will allow you to install applications from other sources.  This setting should only be used if you are an advanced user and understand the risks of downloading apps from unknown sources.

What to Do if Your Device is Stolen

If you ever lose your Kindle Fire, you should immediately change your Amazon account password and any other passwords for apps or websites that you use on the Kindle.  You will also want to report the device as stolen to Amazon Customer Service.  They will be able to de-register the device from your account to prevent unauthorized purchases.

One of the risks with the Kindle Fire is that Amazon’s 1-Click purchasing option enabled by default.  So if a thief gets a hold of your Kindle, he could rack up a large bill on your Amazon account.  To disable 1-Click Purchasing, login to your Amazon.com account in an Internet browser and navigate to the account setting section labeled “1-Click Settings.”  There you will find options for disabling 1-Click Purchasing.