Tips for Smartphone Security for Both Android and iOS

The rise in fraudulent activities both online and offline has made the issue of smartphone security important. Since data can now be saved on smartphones in digital format, it is of importance to securely protect these data from unauthorized access. This can be done using passwords, screen

pattern and more. When an unsecured phone containing important data get lost, you can’t imagine the level of devastation and exposure your stored data can get. In this article, we have itemized tips that will keep your phone and data secure.

Protect Sensitive Data

Smartphones are mini computers, data saved on either the internal or external storage can easily be copied to a desktop or personal computer if not well secured. Due to this fact, storage encryption is important.

There are third party applications found free on Google play store that can help automate this process. These applications automatically encrypt your files preventing unauthorized access. The user enters a one-time password to protect this files. With these applications up and running, your data/file are saved from unauthorized access. Example of such application is Autokrypt. Note: most of this apps are free.

Use a Screen Lock

Screen lock is very important not only for security purposes alone but to also protect your phone from operating itself when in your pocket or bag. Once the screen locks, every function is suspended but comes on when unlocked.

It’s equally important for safe guarding important data. Most smartphones come with pattern lock- a personalized shape or pattern that is drawn on screen to grant access. This feature should be used with care as any finger trace on the screen can disclose or give a clue to what the actual pattern is. To avoid that, always clean your phone screen before drawing the pattern. You can decide to use a password to lock your screen which is even better. Ensure you use a password you can remember but difficult to crack.

Use SIM card Lock

Pattern and password screen lock feature only restrict access to your data, however, it doesn’t prevent someone from removing your SIM card and using on another device without your permission. This issue can be checked by setting up SIM card lock in form of pin number. After every startup of your phone, this password needs to be entered before the phone connects to a network.

Avoid Installing Malicious Applications

When installing any application on your smartphone, ensure you read the requirements. These requirements disclose to the user the type of access the software will have. Many malicious applications, when installed, will gain access to your vital information and transfer this data over the internet, you can’t imagine the level of devastation. Most of the time we lack the patience to wait and read an apps requirements because we are eager to get the app up and running. Ensure you read the requirements of any app most especially if the app is not well known.

Ensure you have Installed and Antivirus

The capabilities of mobile phones are gradually becoming similar to that of a computer for that purpose, an antivirus app to protect smartphones is necessary for maximum security. However, hackers have found a way to still infiltrate smartphones that is by developing fake antivirus programs that can harm your devices. So, in your selection of antivirus, make sure you are careful, select one with the help of an expert.

You can get free versions of this antivirus programs on Google play store. Note: an antivirus program is necessary.

Internet Browsing

When accessing the internet with your phone be careful of the sites you visit. Ensure you are not on a cloned website before entering your sensitive details. Some popups are dangerous, it’s wise to ignore them at times. Use browsers such as Google Chrome to access the internet.

Ensure site is secured before entering any sensitive information. Such site has a padlock sign on the left of the address bar.” https”, however, HTTP sites are also safe but not for entering details such as card billing information.

Read Also: KeePass Application for android and pc: your passwords andsecret details are safe

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