There are myriads of threats revolving around the security of our devices and gadgets at any given moment in time. This situation has now encouraged millennials to understand the importance of their security and privacy, especially when it comes to their computers and Smartphones. Still some of them are not really convinced about the security of their mobile devices.
A survey conducted by Intel revealed that around 32% of people did not find it essential to have security apps on their Smartphones. According to recent statistics, 4 billion people use cell phones in the world. Still, a significant amount of people are not convinced about their security.
It seems like Edward Snowden and his revelations were mere fairytales for them. It’s high time for the people to realize that hackers are vigilantly looking for ways to take advantage of any vulnerability. Plus, third-party agencies are also keeping a track of your information – and perhaps the snoops are also enjoying their share.
With so much going on, protecting your personal information and privacy on your smart devices is a lot to ask. So, we took the liberty of compiling a list of online and mobile security tips that you can use to boost your security:
Use Encryption While Calling and Texting
Hackers have been busy hacking your phone calls and messages and this came on the surface in the early 2000s. Even third-party agencies are keeping a strong check on what you are doing on your Smartphone.
It’s a concerning point but you don’t have to worry a lot as there are apps like PureVPN that can help you encrypt your data. It’s available on Mac, iOS, Windows and Android and is free to download.
Leverage a Password Manager
Memorizing passwords is difficult. With multiple social media accounts, emails and other accounts – remembering all the passwords is a challenge for any normal human being. Get a password manger.
Will it help? For sure it will. A password manager creates unique and unbreakable passwords for every site you visit and most importantly, does not put burden you to memorize them.
Two-Factor Authentication Adds Value
Enhance your security by adding value to it – use two-factor authentication to stay more protected. This phenomenon is gaining popularity recently as it creates an additional shield between you and a hacker.
A hacker will require a code after entering your password to unlock- but he can’t do it. Why? Simple! The code will be sent to your phone and in order to proceed, the hacker will need to steal your phone as well. Companies like Facebook, Gmail, and PayPal are already supporting this feature.
Don’t Overshare Information
One thing you need to know that you don’t need to tell Facebook everything. What you are doing, which café you last visited, your mother’s name, your activities etc. Companies and agencies are always there at social media sites to collect information.
Be smart, don’t share much. Even the whistleblower Edward Snowden recommends to not tell people on social media what they don’t need to know.
Think Before Downloading Apps
The moment you have your Smartphone in your hand, you start downloading exciting and popular apps. One thing most of us ignore while downloading apps – the terms and conditions and the data the app can access. It’s a good thing if you go through all these before downloading.
Another important thing is to download apps through reliable sources. Read the reviews and the ratings of the app; don’t just blindly follow the popularity of an app.
Think Before Clicking Online
Scam is an ongoing phenomenon and some people take real pleasure in doing this. It’s upon you how you protect yourself from such scams. Always remember, think deeply before clicking on any link you receive in personal messages in email or on social media.
These links can be fraudulent and can steal your personal information. Act smart, don’t click on any link that you think is a scam and irrelevant.
Don’t Keep Sensitive Information on Your Phone
Your phone can be your best companion but it does not mean you should tell everything to it. Always remember that keeping your personal identifications number, credit card number, ID, passwords etc. in your phone is not a wise choice. If someone gains access to your phone, the first thing they will do is steal and sell this information.
Wisely Respond to Emails
Sometimes you will witness an email from your bank or some other company with strong reputation asking for your personal information. Just keep this in mind that banks and big firms are not interested in your information but hackers are. Instead of clicking such emails, move the cursor on delete and click.
Avoid Shopping Using Public Wi-Fi
We love free Wi-Fi, especially when we are in cafés or restaurants. Well, it’s suggested to use protection like PureVPN to stay private and anonymous but never shop online while using public Wi-Fi.
Keep Your Operating System Updated
No matter which operating system you are using on your Smartphone or your computer, keep it updated. Furthermore, download anti-virus and anti-spyware to increase the protection of your phone.
We hope these online and mobile security tips will serve as an essential guideline for you and will help you in improving your security. However, to increase your security, privacy and anonymity, use a finest VPN app like PureVPN to enjoy complete online protection.
Sheheryar Khan
June 20, 2023
10 months ago
