Today, smartphones are people’s second office. They are used for work, play, personal entertainment and anything in between. Therefore, these devices have lost information regarding the owner’s personality, bank accounts, relationships and work, among others. If the information leaks out, there is a chance that the hacker will access most aspects of the user’s life.
Hackers can gain access to your device via a variety of methods, such as malicious websites, device theft, unauthorised access, and malicious software. It is important that you find ways to protect your device from these vulnerabilities using proven tools and security best practices. Here are some of the ways you can protect your device:
Use Official Apps Stores and Owner Sources for your Applications
The official app stores for Android and iOS devices are Google Play and the App Store, respectively. These platforms have implemented safeguards to prevent potentially dangerous apps from reaching your device. Therefore, most of the dangerous apps are found outside of these platforms. Whenever possible, only instal apps from these platforms.
Malicious apps may run background programmes while collecting your data, compromising your website logins, stealing your credit card information, and sending it to unauthorised third parties. It is critical that you avoid them as much as possible in order to avoid leaking your personal information.
There are apps that are not available on the official app stores. These ones can be found on the official platforms or websites. Ensure that you are downloading from the right website by checking the URL before hitting the download button.
A bulk of malicious apps come from the gaming sector. If you are a regular casino gamer, go for the official apps or play on the website rather than using the app. Fairspin Casino is a legitimate casino website for gamers looking for a platform that is safe from malicious applications. Check it out if you love casino gaming.
Use Several Forms of Protection
Most smartphones now have several security features that you can use to enhance their security. Basic security uses a PIN number or a pattern. A robust PIN can act as a strong deterrent against unauthorised access to your device. Avoid using your name, birthday, and ID number, as hackers would usually use these when guessing your PIN.
Consider the second layer of security too. Most devices come with such security features as face recognition, fingerprint, iris and voice scanning. You can use any of these along with your PIN. They create a second layer of protection that would make it hard for a hacker who knows your PIN to get into your device.
When using the PIN, change the default codes to something more complex. Default codes include 1234, 0000 and 1111. These were created that way to help new users access the devices. Unfortunately, many people continue to use them after purchasing the device, which exposes them to security issues.
Protect Your Credit Card and Banking Data
Look for a protected app to store your credit card data and banking PIN numbers. It is advisable that you avoid storing them on your phone, where possible. You do not want someone to access this data if the primary security methods fail.
In the same breath, turn off the autocomplete feature. If you have some passwords and other personal information on your device, consider typing it on the website rather than using an app that applies it on the website that requires it. This prevents websites using data capture tools from getting immediate access to your data.
Use a VPN on Public Wi-Fi
Most retail stores, airports, eateries and entertainment joints provide their customers with free internet connectivity. Unfortunately, there are no security features added to these networks to make it easy for everyone to connect without a problem. This means hackers can see information that moves across the network.
Always use a VPN when accessing the internet using public Wi-Fi hotspots. A VPN software program masks your connection and password and encrypts your data such that you are able to connect privately on unsecured networks. You can safely transfer information, use your cards and log onto websites without the fear that someone may be trying to hack into your device.
Never Leave Your Phone Unattended
Most people will not steal your data if they do not have access to your device. Therefore, keeping it away from them is the best way you can keep your information safe. After using your device, lock it and put it in your purse pocket or your car. Place it on the tables only when you get home and there are no guests.
Back Up Your Phone Data
It is advisable to lock your device for several reasons. First, it makes it easier to transition to a new device, as you will only need to upload the data from your backup when setting up the new smartphone. Second, you do not lose your data if the phone is lost or damaged.
The easiest way to back up your data is by storing it on the cloud. Different apps, including Google and iOS, have cloud data backup packages for their platform users. They capture the data automatically according to your settings and upload it to a secure cloud. There are also other third-party platforms that can help you back up your data.
Learn How to Remotely Wipe Your Phone
In the worst-case scenario, when your device is lost, there should be a way to wipe the data so that it does not fall into the wrong hands. You can always recover the data from the backup and upload it to the new device. Check Google’s and Apple’s procedures for wiping the data remotely. There are other tools out there that also enable you to do the same.
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