3 Ways to Protect Your Personal Information on Your Phone

Today’s phones hold significant personal data—everything from banking information to family photos and social media profiles. Unfortunately, this makes them prime targets for hackers and thieves. To keep your personal information safe, here are three practical steps you can take:

1. Use Strong Passwords and Biometrics

A strong password is your first line of defense against unauthorized access. Avoid using simple combinations like “1234” or your birthdate. Instead, create a complex passcode and enable biometric authentication (fingerprint or face recognition) if your phone allows it. This extra layer makes it harder for anyone to access your phone, even if it falls into the wrong hands.

2. Keep Your Software Updated

Many security vulnerabilities are addressed in software updates. Keeping your operating system and apps up to date ensures you have the latest protections. Hackers often exploit outdated software, so set your phone to update to avoid any potential security risks automatically.

3. Be Cautious with Public Wi-Fi

While it may be tempting to hop on public Wi-Fi at cafes or airports, these networks are often unsecured and can expose your data to cybercriminals. Avoid accessing sensitive information like banking accounts or work emails when using public Wi-Fi. Instead, use a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your data and secure your online activity.

By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the chances of compromised personal information, keeping your digital life secure and private.

Spam text messages can be more than just annoying—they can also be dangerous. Scammers often use spam texts to trick you into sharing personal information or clicking on suspicious links. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to stop spam messages before they cause harm.

Protect Your Phone from Unwanted Spam.

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Kim, E., Heras, G. de las, & Puig, A. (2024, April 23). How to protect your phone from hackers. Consumer Advice. https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-protect-your-phone-hackers