iPhones are lauded for having some of the best security in any smart device on the market. While this is essentially true, it doesn’t make them entirely invincible for cyberattacks.
The challenge of hacking an iPhone, along with the possible reward of valuable data, has provided hackers with a lot of incentive to crack the iPhone’s security, and they haven’t given up.
In fact, they have successfully pinpointed a handful of flaws in recent years that provide entry points into iPhones and iPads. As cyberattacks are on the rise, it’s more important than ever to safeguard your devices. Here are some of the best ways to protect your iPhone in 2021.
Don’t Jailbreak Your iPhone
Some people prefer to jailbreak an iPhone because it allows them to access any GSM provider in the world. Currently, Apple is exclusive with AT&T. Once the iPhone is unlocked, users can access other providers like T-Mobile within the United States or several other networks outside of the United States.
However, when you jailbreak an iPhone, you’re leaving a door wide open for hackers to gain access to the data within it. Jailbreaking the phone also eliminates the security instructions coded in place to prevent an app from taking control of it.
Avoid Using Public Wi-Fi Connections
Although public Wi-Fi offers a convenient way to save data and, in some cases, enjoy a faster connection, that convenience comes with a price – your iPhone’s security. Public Wi-Fi connections are often unsecured. They’re notorious for providing hackers and scammers a backdoor entrance into systems that are sharing the connection. Whenever possible, avoid connecting to public Wi-Fi hotspots and use your own data connection instead.
If you must connect to a public Wi-Fi network, make sure you don’t browse the web without a VPN. A VPN for iPhone protects your phone by masking its IP address and encrypting all data that’s sent or received through the device.
Create a Custom Alphanumeric Passcode
Sometimes creating a strong passcode isn’t enough to secure your iPhone. iPhones come with standard passcode options that allow you to create either a 4- or 6-digit numerical pin.
While the chances of someone guessing a secure pin are slim, there’s advanced technology out there today that allows hackers to run every possible 4- or 6-digit number sequence through the system until it cracks the code.
You can outsmart even the savviest cyber-attackers by creating a custom alphanumeric passcode. Without knowing how many characters the passcode is or whether it’s composed of numbers, letters, or symbols, no algorithm would be able to crack it.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is like an added coat of armor for your security. When you enable 2FA, you must enter a live code that’s sent to another device of your choice, in addition to entering your passcode.
With a custom alphanumeric passcode and 2FA enabled, your iPhone and the data inside it will be nearly impossible to access by anyone other than yourself.
Conclusion
Don’t fall victim to cybercrime by thinking that your iPhone is impervious to cyberattacks. Hackers are always looking for new ways to break into iPhones, and they show no signs of slowing their efforts.
By following the simple tips above, you can rest assured that your iPhone is as secure as it could be in 2021.