Cybercrime is slowly becoming a menace in the digital world. Smart devices are a gold mine for data hackers, so you must understand how to protect your device.
If your phone has access to the Internet, you are likely to experience the same cybercrime risks as someone using a desktop.
Fortunately, you can stop a cyber-attack before it even happens by taking a few preventative steps, whether it is about phone security, password security, protecting personal information, or just not giving out your private information online.
Here’s a look at how to avoid potential pitfalls and hopefully enjoy a safer smartphone browsing time.
1. Beware of Unsolicited Calls and Messages
Have you ever received an odd text message or a call from a foreign number? Hackers employ different tactics to lure phone owners into installing malware. One of them is leading you to click on dangerous links.
These tactics are in the form of phishing attempts to get your data and track your Internet activity. Hence, you should be cautious of such social engineering attack techniques. Before taking any action, be sure to verify the identity of the caller. PhoneHistory comes in handy to ensure you do not become a victim of this cybercrime.
2. Avoid Connecting to Public WiFi at All Costs
Open networks are notoriously unsafe and will leave you vulnerable to attacks, providing easy hacking access to your online activity. Some cybercriminals usually set up phony WiFi access points with almost similar names to those available near you.
This tactic is an attempt to prompt you to join the network and provide personal information, like passwords, while at it. Before joining any WiFi network, avoid falling into this trap by confirming the authenticity of the network.
All in all, you need to avoid connecting to any publicly accessible WiFi. If you have to, be extra cautious and avoid accessing sensitive and vital documents like financial accounts.
3. Use Sophisticated Passwords
The effectiveness of passwords in preventing unwarranted access to your data lies solely in your password’s strength, originality, and unpredictability. Using a lengthy password with a mix of characters to set up your devices provides robust protection against fraudsters.
If you can, go the extra mile and use biometric security features like facial recognition or fingerprint detection. Subsequently, avoid using the same password across many websites, and ensure frequent updates. You can also get assistance from a password management app to help secure your credentials.
4. Install an Anti-Malware Software
Most phone users think that antivirus software is limited to desktops and laptops, which is wrong. Anti-malware programs are also ideal for protecting mobile devices from external attacks.
Any internet-connected device, including mobile gadgets, needs antivirus software. Additionally, you must update your software regularly since new threats and virus mutations are always emerging.
5. Constantly Update Your Software
All mobile phone systems and programs require constant updates. Software updates are vital as they help eliminate bugs, enhance phone security and performance, and introduce new features.
Cybercriminals usually leverage known bugs to access your system and compromise your data. By fixing such bugs and upgrading your software, you seal the loopholes and significantly reduce the likelihood of malicious attacks.
6. Always Lock Your Phone
Imagine your phone being stolen without a lock screen password or pattern. The thief would instantly have access to all your data, making you an easy cybercrime victim. Ensure your phone is always locked when you are not using it to avoid such incidents, and select a strong unlock password.
Subsequently, ensure you choose the shortest time possible for the device’s idle time. This will provide rock-solid protection since you don’t have to lock the screen; this will happen automatically. Hence, anyone who steals or confiscates your phone intending to compromise your data stands no chance of succeeding.
7. Always Encrypt Your Data
Today, data encryption is perhaps the most effective security technique available. It is the sole reason why cryptocurrencies are considered the most secure for online transactions. Despite your vital information being in a secure environment, there is a possibility that it might still be hacked. However, encryption makes your information impenetrable to malicious attackers
Most mobile phones have the option to encrypt data in their settings. Be sure to utilize this feature and enjoy its advantages. Data encryption safeguards private information by transforming it into a format that cannot be read without an encryption key. Hence, anyone without the key is denied access to your valuable data.
8. Beware of Applications You Download on Your Phone
Experts and tech usage best practices discourage installing any external phone apps unless from a verified developer. Downloading apps blindly leaves your device vulnerable to malware and exposes your sensitive data to malicious people.
Hackers utilize these fun-looking and enticing apps to gain access to your mobile device without your knowledge. As tempting as it may be, avoid downloading apps from platforms other than Google play and App store.
9. Verify App Permissions
Certain apps require permission to access other apps on the device, like your camera and gallery. Some of these requests should be examined, so consider whether the app genuinely needs access to that feature.
Similarly, review permissions already granted on exciting apps on your phone’s settings area to ensure you did not overlook this step. It is better to be safe than sorry.
10. Do Not Click on Suspicious Links
Cybercriminals tend to clone existing websites to trick you into clicking on malicious links. Most users always fall for these traps all the time.
These cybercriminals use these phishing schemes to fool you and make you disclose your personal information. Do not be a victim of such schemes. At all costs, avoid clicking on unfamiliar websites, and you will be on the safe side.
Conclusion
As the world continues to grow into a more digital economy, cybercrimes are set to be on the rise. The fact is, no one is immune to cybercrime.
It extends beyond our smartphones to all our Internet of Things devices. Therefore, we must work to protect our gadgets from these unprecedented and ever-growing internet scams.
Leverage the fundamental tips discussed above to stay ahead of the criminals.
