Nearly 30% of smart phone users did not use a screen lock on their phones.
How can you make your device secure? This is the digital era. All Smartphone users heavily rely on their devices for just about everything. And why would they not? These devices have indeed made a positive impact on humans. Some of the basic improvements in lifestyle are; online shopping, social interactions, hands-on entertainment and so on.
In recent years the statistics of smart phone users has increased considerably. As there has been a recorded increase of 9.3 per cent since 2019 and the current figure stands at 3.5 billion users worldwide. This data included all ages.
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Indeed the rapid technology and mobility of smart devices have made it easier to perform everyday tasks. However, a great drawback to this reliance is that it compromises a person’s security.
According to Pew Research in 2017, nearly 30% of smart phone users did not use a screen lock on their phones. Not being aware of your own device safety can make you a victim of Cybercrime.
Here are some simple steps you can take to secure your personal information/login and passwords on your smart devices.
Use a screen lock to secure your device:
Every smart device user should use at least take this step to ensure immediate security.
Especially in the case of smart phones, full-strength passwords coupled with biometric authentication, such as fingerprints, make unauthorized access nearly impossible. Whenever you are setting a password, it should at least contain 8 or more characters which are alphanumeric.
Furthermore, it is important to regularly change your password or pin.
Use caller protection apps
Applications that protect against hackers, salespeople and unwanted callers like Firewall are a good safety measure.
Using such apps helps you keep your private number secure. Moreover they allow iOS users to send unwanted calls straight to voicemail.
Ensure that the Wi-Fi connection is protected
Who doesn’t like free Wi-Fi? Data plans can be expensive, however opting for a cheaper option can lead to a far more expensive outcome. Usually free Wi-Fi is not encrypted, hence allowing malicious users to invade others’ privacy.
An easy way to protect against Wi-Fi hacking is to use applications that secure your connection or show the status of the Wi-Fi to which you are connected.
Make it a habit to turn off your device Wi-Fi and Bluetooth when not in use. This way your device will not connect to any unknown network and plus it saves your battery life.
Use a VPN when browsing on your device
The VPN (Virtual Private Network) keeps your information safe and anonymous by assigning you a temporary IP address. It guards your true IP address from every website or email you connect with.
In simpler words, it is an added layer of protection against cybercrimes.
Avoid charging your device in public ports
This may come as a painful discovery for some, however the public charging ports located in airports, transit, coffee shops and so on, can easily be used for security breach of your device.
It is because a charging port is also an outlet that transmits data. For instance if a port is compromised, the hacker can access all your sensitive information. It can also be used to put a virus in your device.
Use a Two – Factor authentication for all social apps
This may seem like tedious work, however in this digitally driven world, you should make full use of this security system.
Most common form of two-factor authentication is when a code is generated when you enter your password, which is then sent to your phone number. Inserting that number allows you access to your social account.
It may seem a lot to do, but it definitely makes it harder to hack into your accounts.
Regularly update your phone’s software
There are regular updates to all smartphones that also include more secure firmware. It may be that your device software has some loopholes that can be breached.
iOS and Apple users are more aware of these regular updates. These updates include a security patch for known vulnerabilities. You can make these updated automatically or manually.
Encrypt hotspot for connection to other devices
Life is a lot easier with hotspots. Wi-fi on the go, however they can be a hassle if they are not encrypted.
They allow strangers to access your sensitive information, so to protect against this you should use a strong password. Default passwords may sometimes not be up to date.
Install an antivirus application
Guarantee your safety and device security by installing a reputable antivirus application. Sometimes the applications you install have malicious code. Once that is activated it can corrupt your files and send information to hackers.
Some antivirus apps also offer services that allow you to delete your data from your stolen smart device. In addition, they also clear your browsing history and delete cookies.
Being tech-savvy in this age is a must for all smart device users. It is important to know how to ensure your security on devices. All these ways can secure your device even if you just opt to do one.
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