The consumer organisation Which? has recently published a list of ten things you should do to keep your mobile phone data safe.
1.Check for security updates
Which? argues that it’s worth ensuring that your phone is running the latest security update. This is said to protect “you against vulnerabilities in the operating system (OS) that hackers could take advantage of to steal your data (including passwords).”
For more information on how to do this check here.
2. Set up Face Unlock / Fingerprint Unlock
Which? says that you can technically set up a new smartphone without implementing any security measures to unlock it. However, they also state “that’s a very risky decision, though, as anybody with access to your phone could load up apps, make calls and transfer files to other devices.”
3. Lock your online accounts with two-factor authentication
It only takes a few minutes, but setting up two-factor authentication (2FA) is a brilliant and simple way to make your online accounts extra secure. The associated website or app will send a code to your smartphone when you attempt to access an account from a new device – for example, a Gmail or Outlook inbox. Before you can continue using the service, you then have to enter the time-sensitive code.
Which? says that they “strongly suggest activating 2FA for every service you log in to. Doing so can stop hackers who might have obtained your password via a data breach or phishing scam from logging in. To enable 2FA, open the app you’re looking to secure and search through the account security settings. Typically, you’ll be asked to enter your mobile number, and then the service will send you a code, which you type in to confirm you want to go ahead and set it up”.
For more details about this check here.
4. Enable the ‘Find my’ service
Which? has noted that both iOS and Android come with free ‘Find my’ services pre-installed. This means that when enabled, you can virtually locate and control your phone to stop data from falling into the wrong hands. Going forward you will get some peace of mind . if you set it up now.
For more information on how to do this check here.
5. Manage your notifications (and keep some private)
Which? states that “iPhone and Android mobiles will let you stop text from appearing within a lockscreen notification. You’ll still know that you’ve received a text, but you won’t be able to read the contents until you unlock your phone. In other words, people looking over at your screen won’t be able to read incoming messages”.
Think of the pros and cons, before you enable this feature. While it is an advantage in terms of security, but you won’t be able to see certain information at a glance.
To adjust notification settings for your default messaging app check here
6. Back up your important data
It makes sense to back up items to the cloud in case you lose or break your smartphone, especially if your smartphone is crammed with treasured pictures and videos or important documents.
Which? has noted that: “There are a variety of cloud storage services to choose from, and the best option will vary depending on how much space you need. Once set up, you can access your most-used files from a computer or transfer pictures from one gadget to another.”
For information on some popular storage service providers check here.
7. Choose how long it takes for your phone to lock
Your phone display will eventually turn off by default, when you stop using the device.
Which? states that “if you want to reduce the time it takes for this to happen, you can make adjustments in your settings menu.”
Just follow these steps:
On iPhone – Head to Settings > Display & Brightness > Auto-Lock. Choose a length of time.
On Android – Choose Settings > Display > Screen timeout.
8. Check permissions (and learn how to spot potentially dangerous apps)
You give a new app access to certain parts of your mobile when you download it. Which? notes that, “for example, if you install a third-party map app, it needs permission to track your location”.
Which also warn that: “However, you might find that some apps ask for a few too many privileges. For example, if you download a calculator app and it requests access to your photos or microphone, that’s obviously a red flag”.
To review your apps, follow these steps here.
9. Use strong passwords to protect your data
Which? also advises that you, “ensure you use unique passwords for every account that manages your data. Don’t use a base password and then tweak it for particular sites or apps that you use – attackers have a better chance of accessing your details if they find out your base password.
When coming up with a secure password, remember that a passphrase is better than a single password. Don’t use any personal information as a password, either”.
You might benefit from installing a trusted password manager. if you struggle to remember your login details. It is said that “they can create an encrypted vault that stores all your passwords. Popular options include Bitwarden, Dashlane and 1Password.”
“You can check if one of your passwords has been compromised by putting your email address into the web form at haveibeenpwned.com”.
10. Invest in some security accessories
There are other ways to keep your smartphone safe, as well as software tweaks. For example, Which? state that “a phone lanyard can deter thieves if you’re walking through a crowded area – you won’t have trouble finding one for less than £10. Fitting a privacy screen to your iPhone or Android mobile can help, too, as it limits the viewing angle of your display. Again, you can buy these for less than £10, and you usually get a couple in a pack”.
You can also join Which? Tech support at their website.
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