Most of us look at our smartphones as a long-term investment. A new phone, whether it’s an Apple or Android, can cost over $1,000! At that price, you want to make sure you’re protecting your device as much as possible from damage, loss, and theft.
While we can’t help you remember where you set your phone down last, we can give you some tips to keep it protected 24/7. These three easy actions will ensure your phone lasts long enough to make it worth the hefty price tag you paid for it!
1. Secure Your Privacy
The first step to protecting your phone is to know how to make your privacy and personal data secure. This starts with a passcode.
Having a phone without a passcode is like inviting someone to steal your identity. A security code isn’t foolproof, and a hacker can get into it if they want to badly enough. But a PIN, passcode, or fingerprint lock can protect your information from common thieves.
This security step prevents physical theft from being a problem. But if you’re not careful with your apps, cyber theft is the next major concern.
Apps can be extremely beneficial and fun! However, every app has a fine print disclosure you have to agree to before you can use it. Read these carefully. You may be giving the company permission to get into your personal information.
Use due diligence before you download any app that isn’t widely used. Check the consumer reviews and privacy policy. Do a quick Google search on the developer, then decide if you feel safe installing the app.
One more thing to be aware of when you’re trying to keep your privacy protected: Wi-Fi.
Glorious Wi-Fi. Where would we be without it?
Your Wi-Fi is pretty safe, but when you connect your device to an unsecured or public network, it’s not as secure. Make sure you’re connecting to a legitimate network that you recognize. Always wait until you’re on a private connection to complete any transactions that include sensitive information.
2. Protect Your Device From Physical Harm
There’s almost nothing scarier than watching your phone fall and not knowing how it’s going to land. Will it be okay? Will there be a hairline crack? Or will it be destroyed beyond repair?
Sure, a case can help minimize the damage. But if you bought a case because it looked good, not because it was sturdy, it doesn’t do too much good when it comes to protection.
Still, you want your expensive device to look good, too. Protective cases can make it awkward to use your phone or fit it in your pocket or purse. They’re bulky, but they do the job!
If you bought your phone because you loved how slim and sleek it was, the last thing you want is a thick, blah case, though. There is an in-between solution. You don’t need bulky and ugly, but you need more than a cute cover.
That’s where vinyl skins come in. These protective wraps are increasing in popularity because they keep the slim, smooth design you love, but they protect your device, too.
Skins fit straight to your phone like a, well, skin! You can personalize yours or buy one of the many pre-made designs. They’re cheaper than cases and protect better than a regular case, although not as good as those bulky ones.
Read Also: Basics of a Vulnerability Management Program
Regardless of whether you choose a case or a skin, you need something to stand in the way of your phone and the concrete “oops” impact that’s sure to happen eventually.
3. Backup Your Data
Backing up your data won’t keep your phone from getting lost, but it will prevent you from losing everything that was on it.
Apple offers cloud-based automatic backups to a certain size, for instance. There are other cloud-based services available you can use or simply back up your phone to your computer regularly.
The ability to access your data remotely also comes in handy to keep thieves from getting into your information. Once you log in to your service’s application, you can wipe out all the data on your stolen or lost phone. You keep the information; they lose access to it.
This is a crucial part of keeping your phone protected, even when it’s out of your hands.
Conclusion
Our phones have become so much a part of our daily lives that most of us don’t know what to do without them. They’re a valuable source of communication, safety, and information.
With such an important investment, you want to keep it protected. These three tips cover your phone’s safety from the inside out!
What are the basic steps to keep my phone protected?
Keep your phone’s software up to date, use a password or biometric authentication, avoid downloading unknown apps, keep your phone physically secure, and use a protective case and screen protector.
Is updating my phone’s software important for security?
Yes, updating your phone’s software regularly can fix vulnerabilities and add new security features.
What type of password is best for my phone?
A strong password, biometric authentication (fingerprint or face recognition), or a passcode is recommended for phone security.
How do I avoid downloading malicious apps?
Only download apps from the official app store (e.g. Apple App Store, Google Play Store) and check the app’s ratings and reviews before installing it.
What is the best way to physically secure my phone?
Keep your phone with you and secure it in a safe place when not in use. Use a security cable to secure it to a fixed object in public places.
How can a protective case and screen protector help protect my phone?
A protective case can absorb shock and protect your phone from physical damage. A screen protector can protect the screen from scratches and cracks.
Is it necessary to use a screen protector for my phone?
It depends on your usage, but using a screen protector can help prevent damage to your phone’s screen.