Smartphone Security
We’ve all done it, connected to public Wi-Fi, paired with unfamiliar devices, or forget to update our phone. It’s fine, it happens but there are plenty of things you can do to protect yourself and your personal info. Once you learn a few of these tips and tricks to stay safe, you may think twice before asking to join a network, downloading an app, or refusing that update. There are easy steps can take to help keep your personal information safe even when using public networks.
Be Wary of Public Wi-Fi: Avoid connecting to unsecured public Wi-Fi networks. Use a virtual private network (VPN) for additional security when accessing public networks.
Secure Bluetooth Connections: Turn off Bluetooth when not in use to prevent unauthorized connections. When using Bluetooth, only pair with trusted devices.
Use Strong Lock Screen Protection: Set up a secure lock screen method such as a PIN, password, pattern, or biometric authentication (fingerprint or face recognition) to prevent unauthorized access to your device.
Keep Your Device Updated: Regularly update your device's operating system and apps to patch security vulnerabilities and protect against potential threats.
Install Apps from Trusted Sources: Only download and install apps from official app stores like Google Play Store (for Android) or the Apple App Store (for iOS) to minimize the risk of downloading malware-infected apps.
Enable Find My Device: Enable built-in device tracking features like Find My iPhone (iOS) or Find My Device (Android) to locate, lock, or erase your device remotely in case it's lost or stolen.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible to add an extra layer of security to your accounts. This typically requires entering a verification code sent to your phone in addition to your password when logging in.
Regularly Back Up Your Data: Backup your device's data regularly to a secure cloud storage service or external hard drive to prevent data loss in case your device is lost, stolen, or compromised.
