As evidenced by the recent news of the numerous data breaches or hackers getting sensitive information, it’s more important than ever to protect your privacy. It would be a shame to have your smartphone hacked by thieves.
Here are some suggestions to protect your cell phone. Most will take only a few minutes and will help protect your sensitive information.
See What’s Already On Your Phone
Even if you think you installed legitimate apps, you never know if they’re really safe. Make sure to review everything to see what kind of permissions they’re using. If you’re uncomfortable about them, then consider uninstalling the app.
If you’re unsure about an app, consider installing a security app such as ones from Avast or McAfee to tell which apps could be unsafe. And for any apps you keep, make sure you install updates as soon as they’re available as it should have the latest security protection measures.
From now on, be really cautious when installing new apps. Check to see what permissions you’re giving the app and only install ones from either a third party site or from somewhere unfamiliar.
Lock Sensitive Apps
Yes, it’s convenient to turn on features such as having auto login for your apps or accounts, but it could be easy for hackers to get into your phone if they steal it. There are also nifty features such as smart unlock, where your phone will automatically unlock if your smartwatch is close by or at work, and this could also make it easier for thieves to break in
To try and divert hackers who steal your phone, check your smartphone to see if there are any options that make it hard to break in, such as facial or fingerprint recognition. You can also lock individual apps or create extra security measures such as double authentication options. You can also install an app that locks individual apps such as Folder Lock for iOS devices.
Don’t Use Open Wifi
Sure, it’s great to be able to use free wifi, but there’s a risk in it, especially if it’s an open wireless network. Once you’re connected, anyone closeby can snoop in on what you’re doing online. While it’s not that likely someone will necessarily hack in, you just never know.
All this to say, don’t do anything which requires you to give up your sensitive information when on an open wifi network. Better yet, don’t connect at all if you’re unsure. If you must, there are many VPN, or virtual private network programs that encrypts your internet activity, so potential hackers won’t see what you’re up to.
Be Cautious Of What You Do On Your Phone
No matter how careful you are, you can’t ensure that your phone will never be hacked. Your best bet is to be aware of websites you visit and the types of links you click on. You can also install an app that will monitor your identity on websites such as your social media and email accounts. These apps will notify you when there’s suspicious activity so that you can change your password before it’s too late.
Using your smartphone is super convenient and helps you with many things, but you need to be careful your sensitive information doesn’t fall into the wrong hands. If you do all of the above mentioned actions, your phone will be as safe as it can from hackers and thieves.
About Mason & Associates, Inc.
Mason & Associates, Inc. was founded in 1989, specializing in Life Planning for individuals, families and small businesses. Life Planning places a person’s core life values at the heart of the advice process and focuses on the human aspects of financial planning.
As a client, your personal story is key to our planning process. That is why we strive to build a close relationship that will encompass every aspect of your life. Together with our team of professionals, we guide you through the process of identifying what is important to you, your goals, your dreams. We then put into place a financial road map to set you on your way towards achieving your objectives.
Our responsibility does not end there. As you encounter bumps in the road, changes in goals or any other roadblocks, we are there to offer advice and guidance. We are there to celebrate your successes and cope with your challenges. We work alongside your other professionals such as your attorney and your CPA to be sure all of your legal and financial needs are aligned.