Many companies are dealing with mobile attacks, and statistics show that 40% of smartphones are prone to cyber-attack. In the digital era we live in, smartphones have become a valuable part of our everyday life. It would be safe to say that they have become more essential than our wallets as they store much more information than a wallet would. Whether it is enjoying Thunderbolt casino bonuses, eLearning, banking, or sharing information, smartphones have the power to support all these transactions. The concern, however, is, as we rely on these gadgets in our everyday lives, are we doing anything to ensure they are protected? Make Smartphone Secure-
Failure to protect your devices exposes you to the danger of cybercrime. People tend to forget that smartphone security requires the most basic actions. Here are some reminders on what you need to do to keep unauthorized access to your data.
- Ensure Your Screen Is Locked- Smartphone Secure
As obvious as this may seem, not everyone keeps their phones’ screens locked. This is risky as it gives people easy passage to your information. More so, if you misplaced your phone or it got stolen, intruders will easily get their hands on sensitive data.
There are numerous options for lock screens, including patterns, pins, passwords, fingerprints, and face identification. Fingerprint lock is one of the most recommended options as it limits access in many ways.
It is also important to remember not to use the most obvious pins or patterns that can be easily bypassed. Keeping your screen locked at all times will not only protect you from cyberattacks but also control the access of people around you. That is whether it is friends, family, or colleagues.
- Do Not Download Apps from Unknown Sources
One of the things that smartphone users overlook is the sources of some of the applications they install on their phones. Apple and Google both have restrictions on the applications that feature in their store.
The apps available on Apple and Google store are secure and will not expose your phone to cybercriminals. However, smartphone users often try to deactivate the restrictions to add apps from unknown sources.
What they don’t know is that the apps may contain viruses. If you install them, you are likely to have personal information stolen from your device. Restrict the temptations, and use only applications that have been verified by Google and Apple.
- Back Up Your Data
While you have all the security measures in place, it is important to give room for error. Smartphone security practices play a significant role in blocking and slowing down attackers. But have you ever wondered what would happen if an attack was successful?
Gadget users should think about ransomware when they are protecting their devices. Have extra copies of your data so that should you be restricted from accessing your information through ransom attacks, you will not be forced to pay.
Do regular backup by uploading your data to the cloud, and you will be safe when disaster strikes.
- Ensure Your Device Is Protected When Using Bluetooth
While Bluetooth is more secure than Wi-Fi, it is still a security concern. Bluetooth is an instrumental part of the technology space being used in cars, home music systems, smartphones, and keyboards.
Users need to remember that just like most wireless systems, it is prone to attacks. Common ways cybercriminals launch attacks through Bluetooth include bluesnarfing, bluejacking, and bluebugging.
Through bluesnarfing, attackers can extract information that your device sends to internet service providers, text, and other kinds of sensitive data. Through bluejacking, cybercriminals can hijack another device using Bluetooth through your phone and send spam messages.
Through bluebugging, the hackers usually create secret connections with your device then get access to your device’s backend through this connection. On getting this access, they can spy on your activities, get sensitive information, and even practice identity theft.
How can you make Bluetooth secure? The best strategy is to make your Bluetooth not discoverable. This way, hackers will not be able to zero on your device. Sharing sensitive information through Bluetooth can also increase the risk of your data landing in the wrong hand.
Also, be careful when connecting with devices you connect with. For instance, do not accept a connection request from unknown devices as they could be hackers. Unpairing with old connections can also make your Bluetooth secure; go to the pairing history and unpair with devices you no longer need.
- Install an Antivirus
Antivirus is not needed by computers only. If you think about it, your smartphone is also a computer. Installing antivirus software will help beef up your gadget’s security. They come with a wide range of features you can utilize to keep your device protected. We are talking about remote data wipe, call blocking, and app lock tools, to mention a few.
The good news is that antivirus software for smartphones is easy to find as most antivirus companies that offer protection for computers have solutions for smartphones too.
Take Aways
When it comes to data protection, do not leave your phone out. Nowadays, smartphones hold sensitive data ranging from bank details and personal identification details to company data. Basic data protection practices like ensuring your smartphone is always locked when not in use will go a long way in keeping your data secure.
Stay vigilant and keep your smartphone secure using the tips above.
