In the past, outdated personal computers were the only means to connect to the Internet. However, nowadays, mobile devices are used for such tasks as they are more convenient than chunky PCs. Although laptop and desktop computers have several anti-malware software that keeps them secure, mobile devices don’t have such a level of security. In this article, we will discuss the guidelines for boosting your privacy on your mobile devices.
In no particular order, the following are the criteria to follow to improve your smartphones and tablets privacy:
1. Go Through Your Device Settings
To ensure that your mobile device secures your data, check your settings. While going through the settings, you can review the entities permitted to gain access to your data. Besides that, turn off every unwanted service and block several apps from accessing your microphone and camera, except if it is important to keep them connected.
2. Opt for Encoded Social Apps
Some communication application platforms are encrypted which makes it difficult for cybercriminals to access them. Such social media platforms are usually more protected than their counterparts. Some of the encrypted messaging services include Whatsapp, Snapchat, Signal, Telegram, and so on.
3. Utilize a Virtual Private Network
Utilizing a virtual private network to improve your privacy is one of the best ways of keeping your mobile device encrypted. You can find numerous downloadable free versions compatible with your mobile device online. With the use of these private networks, smartphone and tablet users can surf the internet knowing that their data is safe and secure.
4. Utilize More Customized Unlocking Procedures
Using a more personalized unlocking process will erase every possibility of your phone being hacked or stolen. This can be achieved by making your smartphone or tablet unlocking procedure more complex for hackers. For instance, fingerprints or facial recognition can be set as the unlocking process of mobile devices to increase their level of security.
5. Use Password Managers
In the modern age, passwords are used for several tasks and are required to be extra complex which could make users forget them easily. Use password managers to keep your password safely stored and avoid being locked out of your respective accounts.
6. Opt Out of Data Brokers To Minimize Spam
As a mobile device user, you may be no stranger to unsolicited text messages and emails. Whilst some of them may be harmless spam, others may be expressly designed to obtain your sensitive information or infect your device with malware. The reason why you may be receiving so many spam and suspicious messages is that your personal details are in the hands of unwanted third parties.
Known as “data” or “information brokers”, these entities specialize in collecting your data and trading it for a profit. Your data is then used for targeted advertising, risk mitigation, and other dubious purposes. Fortunately, it’s possible to manually opt-out from the largest brokers on the web such as Verisk, Acxiom LLC, Epsilon, and Oracle Data amongst others. Alternatively, automated data removal services can retrieve your sensitive information from numerous brokers, enhancing your protection against spam and cybercrime.
7. Final Thoughts
By following the aforementioned criteria for boosting user privacy on mobile devices, users can surf the internet safely without being hacked. You can check your mobile device settings, subscribe to an information removal service, or use password managers.
