It can be easy to forget that smartphones hold a lot of our sensitive personal information – and that they can be hacked into pretty easily if we’re not careful. Fortunately, there are certain steps you can take to protect your smartphone from hackers. Read on to know.
Choose Your Apps Carefully
We recommend only running apps that are available on Google Play Store, Apple App Store, or a different trusted source. Once you have downloaded an app, try to limit its access to information on your phone, including your contacts, location, and photos. Apps that you download may request permanent access to other multiple services, but this access could violate your privacy if the app itself were to get hacked.
Strengthen the Device’s Security Settings
Always protect your phone and any apps that contain sensitive information with a passcode or, if it is possible, biometric-authentication mechanisms like Face ID or Touch ID for maximum security. Ideally, you should also activate two-factor authentication (2FA) on all apps and services that make this option available.
Enable Auto-Updates
Updates are how flaws in the security of the device get patched. So, allowing these updates to happen ensures you won’t leave your smartphone unprotected for a long time.
Add Multiple Layers of Security
A virtual public network (VPN) can provide another layer of security for your data, especially if you use public Wi-Fi networks frequently. You can also ensure your security by using an antivirus app.
What you should avoid doing
Don’t Give People Your Contact Number
It may seem like a simple thing and pretty innocuous, but stop handing out your phone number unless it is absolutely necessary. Phone numbers are often used as a form of ID, and temporary 2FA codes are typically sent to your number.
Don’t Download Random Apps or Files
Don’t download anything sent to your phone without carefully vetting the source. Even if someone you know sent you something to download, it’s best to verify the authenticity of the file or app before you download it or open it.
Don’t Use Public Wi-Fi
Try to avoid using public Wi-Fi networks since these networks help hackers gain access to your mobile device. Use your data plan instead.