Smartphones are an essential part of our daily lives—we use them for shopping, banking, communication, and social media. This makes them a prime target for hackers. In this article, you’ll learn how to use your smartphone safely and protect it from attacks.
1. Set a Strong Screen Lock
A secure screen lock protects your personal data if your phone is lost or stolen.
How to set it up:
• Use a PIN with at least six digits or an alphanumeric password.
• Fingerprint or face recognition adds extra security.
• Avoid simple patterns or short PINs like “1234” or “0000”.
2. Keep Your Software Updated
Software updates close security gaps and protect against new threats.
How to enable automatic updates:
• Android: Settings > System > System Update > Enable Automatic Updates.
• iOS: Settings > General > Software Update > Enable Automatic Updates.
Important: Also, regularly update your apps via the Google Play Store or App Store.
3. Download Apps Only from Official Stores
Apps from unknown sources can contain viruses or spyware.
Tips:
• Only download apps from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
• Read reviews and check the permissions of an app before installing.
• Avoid downloading APK files from the internet.
4. Be Cautious with Public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi networks are convenient but insecure. Hackers can easily intercept data.
How to protect yourself:
• Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to encrypt your data.
• Recommendations: ProtonVPN, Windscribe (free), or NordVPN (paid).
• Avoid online banking or shopping when connected to public Wi-Fi.
• Disable automatic Wi-Fi connection in your settings.
5. Turn Off Bluetooth and NFC When Not in Use
Bluetooth and NFC (e.g., for contactless payments) can be vulnerable.
Tips:
• Turn off Bluetooth and NFC when you don’t need them.
• Set your device to be invisible to other Bluetooth devices.
6. Use Antivirus Apps
Smartphones also benefit from good antivirus protection.
Recommended free apps:
• Android: Bitdefender Mobile Security, Avast Mobile Security
• iOS: iPhones are inherently secure, but additional antivirus apps are generally not necessary.
7. Recognize and Avoid Phishing
Cybercriminals often try to trick you with fake messages into clicking harmful links.
How to spot phishing:
• Never click on suspicious links in SMS, emails, or messenger apps.
• Carefully check the sender’s email address.
• Do not open unknown attachments.
8. Social Media Security Settings
Social networks like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok are especially vulnerable to attacks and data misuse. You can protect your privacy with a few settings.
Tips for better security:
• Activate privacy settings:
• Instagram: Settings > Privacy > Enable Private Account.
• Facebook: Settings > Privacy > Set posts to be visible to Friends only.
• Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):
• Extra protection through a code sent via SMS or an authenticator app.
• Avoid sharing sensitive information:
• Don’t publicly post your address, phone number, or location.
• Review your friends list:
• Don’t accept friend requests from people you don’t know.
9. Check App Permissions
Apps often request permissions they don’t need.
How to check permissions:
• Android: Settings > Apps > Manage Permissions.
• iOS: Settings > Privacy.
Example: A flashlight app doesn’t need access to your contacts or camera.
10. Enable Device Tracking and Remote Wipe
If your phone is lost, you should be able to locate, lock, or erase it remotely.
How to activate this feature:
• Android: Settings > Google > Enable Find My Device.
• iOS: Settings > Apple ID > Enable Find My iPhone.
In case of theft: Contact your mobile provider to block your SIM card.
Conclusion
By following these simple steps, you can effectively protect your smartphone from hackers and data thieves. Strong passwords, regular updates, cautious app usage, and secure network settings go a long way in keeping your personal data safe.
Protect what matters most—start securing your smartphone today!