We don’t just use our phones for calls and texts these days – nope, we use them for so much more now. From social media, keeping in touch with friends and family and checking work emails to banking and paying for stuff. In fact, there’s not much we don’t use our phones for.
We’re basically walking around with phone-sized computers in our pockets, and they’re packed full of our information. That’s why mobile phone security is so important.
If it feels like a bit of a minefield, we’re here to help with some tips on how to protect your phone.
Use a password
An unlocked phone can be an easy target for someone that’s looking to pick up some of your information.
One of the easiest ways to stop that is to lock your screen using a passcode, patter or your fingerprint. And, if you’re dreading the thought of having another passcode to try and remember, don’t sweat it. With some of the newer handsets like the iPhone X, you can use facial recognition to unlock it. Or, if the Samsung S9 is more your bag, you can use iris scanning.
Get yourself a phone case
Nothing makes your heart sink quite like the sound of your phone hitting the floor. That feeling’s even worse if you’ve not got around to putting a protective case and screen protector on yet…
So, protect your phone with a case and a screen protector and save yourself the heartache of scooping up a smashed phone.
Make sure you’ve got Three Rescue too – that way if the worst does happen and your phone is lost, stolen or accidentally damaged, we’ll be able to get you back up and running ASAP.
Install an antivirus app
As we mentioned earlier, we use our phones for so much now that they’ve pretty much replaced our laptops and PCs. Now, that’s a lot of personal info to be carrying around in your pocket.
It’s not just laptops and PCs that can get infected by viruses, malware and spyware – phone can too.
You wouldn’t think twice about installing antivirus software to protect the information stored on your computer, so why should your phone be any different?
Manufacturers like Samsung and Huawei have pre-installed antivirus protection, but you can get antivirus apps too. They work in the same way as antivirus software and screen your phone, checking for any threats or harmful software that you may have downloaded by mistake. If you find anything suspicious, you can remove it using the app too.
Just remember to download any antivirus apps from a trusted source like Google Play Store or the App Store.
Check app permissions
What are app permissions anyway? They’re those pop-ups that you quickly tap “okay” to when you’re trying to download a new app. They might not seem very important, but they determine exactly what your new app has access to on your phone. So, it’s a good idea to pay attention to what you’re allowing.
If you want to check which permissions you’ve already agreed to, you can find them in your phone settings. You can change them there too, if you need to.
Watch out for open Wi-Fi networks
We know that open or public Wi-Fi networks can be a welcome sign; especially if you’re desperately trying to save your precious data allowance. But, before you connect and start checking work emails or your online banking – remember that an open Wi-Fi network isn’t a secure one and connecting could put your info at risk.
Why not treat yourself to a new Three SIM with All-you-can-eat-data and Go Binge instead? That way, you’ll never have to worry about running out of data or needing to use open Wi-Fi again.
Putting these mobile phone security tips into practise will help to keep your phone and the information stored on it safe and secure.
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Source: Three Mobile Hub
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