Today most of us are obsessed with our phones as compared to our phones. However, when it comes to security, we are less concerned about our Android handsets than our laptop's safety. This is partially due to the security basics that are either patched away or too firmed up. But there are still several ways to ensure that your phone's security isn't compromised and all your sensitive data and passwords are safe.
Here we have lined up five security tips for your android phone that will enable you to have a secure, smooth, and hassle-free experience.
Don't sideload apps
Flexibility is one of the key features of Android phones over iOS. However, this flexibility can also give you a hard time and may end up damaging your phone through sideloading.
Android allows you to install applications from the app's raw files, just like we do on a Windows computer; this is known as sideloading. You can also download the 'apk' files directly from any third-party app store, browser, etc.
You can never tell if the files are contaminated with malware, so it's better to stick to Google Play until or until you know the origins of the application files.
Don't use 1234 as your PIN.
There are many arguments for and against keeping a fingerprint scanner as a significant security measure. The fingerprint scanner is not considered a strong PIN or password, and it is only considered a fast one.
If you are not using your phone's digit scanner, then the backup PIN mustn't be easy for other people to guess. Easy PINs include; 1234, 1111, or 0000, these are not suitable passwords, and even if you use them, they won't protect your phone.
The same is the case with 'pattern' unlocks; a simple pattern is not secure enough. Make sure you strike a balance between memorability and ease of typing when setting your passwords since you'll be unlocking your phones frequently. It's better to set a password that is easy to memorize and difficult to guess.
Don't send sensitive data over public Wi-Fi.
It is quite hard to avoid public Wi-Fi while living in a city. The same providers usually offer this public Wi-Fi. The security experts typically advise using public Wi-Fi with precautions if you can't avoid it entirely.
Certain types of attack mean that any data stored on your phone or any information you enter can easily fall into the hand of a hacker- and you don't need any certification or be an IT genius to hack the data.
The best option is to use sites with an 'https' URL as this is considered secured. Moreover, avoid inputting your card details or online banking over public Wi-Fi. The bank websites are secured, but that cannot prevent any middle attack where hackers can take hold of any information sent to banking or other website.
Consider using a VPN
A Virtual Private Network or a VPN is an additional layer of protection used for browsing, and this is because all your data is transmitted through an encrypted connection between your VPN provider's servers and the phone.
It may sound technical but using a VPN is simple. Most of the VPN services have Android apps, and they enable you to run these by choosing the server you want.
Update your apps
It is not only our phone's software that requires updates; the applications in our phones also do. Even a simple application update can sometimes solve security problems, so it's better that you keep on checking for updates. Check the app updates on your phone, go on Google Play, choose the option 'My Apps & Games', and then click on the Update tab.
Moreover, you can also enable Auto updates, which will notify you whenever the recent update is available and automatically update the apps, hence saving you from using the old version.
As mentioned above, the security tips will save your Android phones from any security breach or attack and can make your life easier.
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