Security is one of the most pressing issues for today’s mobile users. If you are ready to start protecting your data and your device, the information below will help.
Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi connections.
Even if you are trying to reduce your data usage, you need to make security your top priority. If you are doing anything involving sensitive data, use a virtual private network so that the data is encrypted. Check this list of Android VPNs.
Use a screen lock that is password or fingerprint-protected.
Adjust the settings to limit the amount of time available to enter the password. That way, if you accidentally forget your phone somewhere, anyone who finds it won’t be able to easily access your information. Before they can view your data, they first have to make it through this initial security screen.
Enable data encryption on your phone.
Although this is the default option on some phone models, on others, you need to manually enable it. This helps protect any sensitive information that you transmit or store on your phone, such as your banking information or emails related to your company.
Make sure that you can remotely wipe the data on the phone if it is stolen.
Enabling this feature allows you to erase its data from anywhere if your device goes missing. This helps prevent anyone who finds or steals your phone from accessing your data. Oftentimes, tools like these also allow you to locate your phone so that you can recover it.
Regularly back up your device.
One easy option is to set it so that it automatically uploads any new data to the cloud in an encrypted format. If you are leery about storing your information in the cloud, you can also connect your device to your computer to transfer any important data like videos, photographs, files, or apps.
Don’t use apps that are published by third-party vendors.
On an iPhone, this is hard to avoid. If you have an Android phone, however, it is a little bit easier. As long as you only download apps from Google Play and turn off the feature to allow apps from unknown sources, you should be able to stay safe. If there is a third-party app that you can’t live without, always carefully research it to make sure it is safe before installing it. You can find out more by checking reviews from other users. Take extra care when using apps that require personal data.
Don’t root or jailbreak your device.
These techniques are designed to circumvent the safeguards that are built into your device’s operating system, including all of the security features. This can make your phone much less secure.
Install any updates to your operating system right away.
Don’t overlook notifications about pending updates. Instead, make sure your phone is fully charged and that you have space available. As long as everything looks good, install the updates immediately rather than waiting.
Educate yourself about scams involving social engineering.
There are a lot of bad people out there who try to get personal details from users by creating fake apps that look like your normal apps or by soliciting information through text messages. They also may send harmful links via email or could try to infect your phone with attachments. Any time someone that you don’t know communicates with you, always use caution. If something seems wrong, trust your gut and don’t engage.
Protect your device from malware by enabling malware protection.
This can help keep any malicious programs or attachments from infecting your device.
Image credit: mobile security via panuwat phimpha/Shutterstock