People spend more and more time on their smartphone nowadays and it’s no wonder. You can do some shopping, check your email, and even visit real money gambling apps. You often use payment options or your personal information, so securing your smartphone has never been more important.
This article features 8 tips and tricks that will help you protect your money and data. They are applicable to both iOS and Android, as well as other mainstream mobile devices.
Keep Your Software Up to Date
One of the most important actions would be to update your Operating System and all the apps on your smartphone regularly. The newest version of the software is designed to protect you from all the latest issues that are known to the developer.
If you don’t update your software on time, you risk missing out on the most recent security measures and the older versions might have some holes that could be exploited by harmful third parties.
Lock Your Screen
Most of you are already doing this, but it’s still important to note that locking your screen is extremely important. If you lose your smartphone or it gets stolen, it will prevent other people from accessing your information.
The couple of seconds required to unlock your screen every time might seem annoying, but it can save you a ton of trouble in the long term.
Lock Your SIM Card
If you lock your screen, people won’t be able to access your apps. However, they could still remove your SIM card and put it in another device. That could expose your contacts and potentially, other information. To avoid any issues of this kind, simply use a PIN code. It will be required every time a device is started with your SIM in it or when the card is inserted.
Be Careful When Using Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
We’re mostly used to connecting to other people and networks through Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Both are generally useful, but may leave your smartphone vulnerable. Most modern devices are well-protected and it’s not that easy to get hacked, but you should still be careful.
Don’t leave your Bluetooth active and discoverable at all times, don’t join shady wireless networks, and follow your common sense. If you have any doubts that you might be making a mistake, you probably are.
Use Remote Data Wipe Apps
There are certain apps for both iPhone and Android that allow you to remove your data remotely, in case your smartphone gets stolen or lost. You can simply install the software to both your phone and another device, such as your laptop.
Then, use it to wipe out all the information you wish, if your smartphone disappears. Even if someone steals it or finds it and tries to take advantage, they won’t be able to.
Use a Localization App
Both iOS and Android have developed their in-house apps that allow you to locate your device remotely. Both the “Find My iPhone” and “Find My Device” programs work in a similar fashion. They detect your smartphone and offer various useful features that allow you to block your device, make it ring or delete important data.
Install an Additional Antivirus App
Most mainstream smartphones nowadays come with a solid level of antivirus security, but that doesn’t mean it can’t get better. There are plenty of additional apps that can help and many of them are cheap or even free. If you are working with money and important information, it would be better to add that extra level of security.
Be Careful with the Emails You Open
One of the most dangerous actions remains related to your emails. Don’t open suspicious letters and don’t ever click on links that are included in them. That’s a rookie mistake that could cost you a fortune. Furthermore, if you feel some message might be phishing or some other scam, make sure to report it.
