While we talk a lot on iGeekPhone about the latest smartphones, security is a critical part of the equation. There’s always the risk of someone intercepting our online usage, the new phone being snatched from our hands mid-call, or just losing the device on the train.
To cover yourself against accidents and intentional security breaches, it’s necessary to apply caution to how your phone is used and what actions are taken (and avoided) online. Here are 4 tips to make your device safer and avoid online pitfalls.
1. Never Leave Your Smartphone Unlocked
One of the worst things for smartphone owners to do is to leave their phones unattended and unlocked. At that point, it’s open season on your accounts. Thieves can do an enormous amount of damage to your digital life in minutes following a theft.
Don’t make the mistake of leaving your phone on the side table unlocked, or on your desk for that matter. Enable fingerprint login security if that’s a possibility with your device. Otherwise, carefully cover your phone when entering your PIN to avoid anyone figuring it out, and change it regularly if you’re unsure too.
2. Use Virus and Malware Software to Protect It
Not using a malware or virus scanner on a smartphone is inviting trouble. Use one of the better-rated scanners like the mobile app from Malwarebytes to protect yourself from apps filled with malware, and any downloads from a site or email that could infect your device. This way, you’ll avoid the worst of it.
Don’t take the risk of not bothering to install and update a security app. Your device is usually connected to your banking, so it’s vulnerable.
3. Watch Your Money Closely
Even when you have a good security setup, it’s important to check your financial accounts regularly to look for any erroneous transactions. When doing so, you can spot and alert your bank or credit card provider to a transaction that didn’t originate from you.
Part of being careful with money includes avoiding overspending on financial transactions. For instance, if you’re thinking of sending money either domestically or abroad, then consider using the Ria Money Transfer App. It can save you money versus traditional money transfer methods that are slow and typically cost more.
4. Avoid Installing Apps from Other Online Stores (If Possible)
When installing apps, avoid adding those from another app store. For Android users, it’s possible to configure the settings to allow installations of third-party apps outside of the Play Store. While they can be legitimate, you cannot always be sure of their sources. The apps in the Play Store go through various checks and get looked at from a security standpoint too. It’s unlikely that another app store can offer that sort of reassurance, making them an unnecessary risk.
Staying safe is extremely important today. More than ever, cybercriminals are using the greater access and information afforded to them through the digital realm to get rich. Protect yourself to avoid becoming one of their latest victims.