Our phones have become an extension of our bodies, storing everything from our most personal memories to our banking information to which restaurants we love. It is also synced with your email and your other profiles. It has access to all of your other personal data like your photos, messages, emails, Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, etc.
When it comes to mobile device use, there is no manual that comes with a phone to teach the user mobile security. In addition, threats are always evolving and adjusting based on our habits.
To help you navigate your device in a secure way, Here are five easy steps you can take to keep your mobile devices safe.
Always Use Passcode
Ensure that no one will have access to your sensitive data, photos, emails, etc. by always using a passcode. We know it can be annoying to have to type it in every time, but it’s worth it.
Use A VPN
When you are connected to Wi-Fi, your data could be shared with others whether that Wi-Fi connection is secure or not! And when you browse some websites, they save your data by accessing your real IP and finding out your real physical location!
Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) on all of your devices — and yes, that includes your mobile devices — protects you from cybercriminals, government spying, your ISP, and anyone else who might be trying to get a look at your online activity. VPNs create a secure connection between your device and the server in the form of an encrypted “tunnel.”
Turn On Security Features
If you have an iPhone or an iPad, you can activate “Find My iPhone,” which will help you track your device if it’s stolen or lost. For Android, there’s usually a “Find My Device” option. Both will not only help you track down your devices, but also give you the option of erasing everything on them, in case you can’t get them back. That provides further protection against strangers getting access to your personal data.
Turn Bluetooth Off
Bluetooth is a great technology. It makes it possible to connect devices in ways that were previously only possible in science fiction. But it also offers another entry point into your phone. While cybercriminals have to be pretty physically close to you in order to launch a Bluetooth attack, why risk it? Just turn Bluetooth off when you’re not using it.
Turn Off Location Info For Photos
Did you know that every photo you take is geotagged? And when you share those photos — say, on social media — those geotags are shared with it. If the idea of anyone online having access to the exact location of your house, for example, worries you (and it should!) then you’re going to want to turn off geotags for your photos.
Review App Permissions
Apps need permissions — that’s how they work. But some companies take advantage of app permissions by asking for more than they need. So just take a minute to think about whether or not a new app really needs the permissions it’s asking for. Unnecessary app permissions are also a favorite way for malicious actors to get access to your device.
