Is your phone due for a digital detox? Experts say yes
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As the daffodils bloom and the days grow longer, spring cleaning is in full swing.
But while you're dusting off shelves and decluttering closets, there's another kind of cleaning that's calling for your attention – digital spring cleaning. Here at The GrayVine, we're not just about keeping your home tidy; we're also committed to ensuring your digital life is spick and span.
So, let's talk about a crucial task that's often forgotten: sweeping your smartphone for security risks.
Your smartphone is a treasure trove of personal information, and it's essential to protect it from prying eyes.
Whether you've just upgraded to the latest model or you're holding onto a trusty companion, every smartphone user needs to be vigilant about security.
Dr. Fraud, a cybersecurity expert, recently highlighted this issue on Colorado ABC affiliate KMGH-TV, stating, “It's so often overlooked.”
But overlooking this can lead to a “massive” security risk. By sweeping your phone, you're not just tidying up; you're safeguarding your personal data from potential threats.
The Three-Step Sweep: A DIY Guide
You could take your phone to a professional for a security check, but that might cost more than you're willing to spend. Instead, empower yourself with these three simple steps to sweep your phone and enhance its security:
1. Review App Permissions
For both iPhone and Android users, the journey to a secure phone starts with scrutinizing app permissions, particularly location services.
Dr. Fraud advises, “Go through your apps one by one.” You might be surprised to find how many apps have access to your location and other sensitive data.
From there, you can manage which apps can access your location and how often. Be cautious with apps that demand constant location tracking.
While some, like insurance apps, might offer benefits for continuous access, they also pose a privacy risk.
2. Limit Location Access
Dr. Fraud warns against allowing apps to”'always” have access to your location. It's a significant fraud risk.
Instead, choose settings that require apps to ask for permission each time they need your location. Yes, it's a few extra taps, but it's a small inconvenience for a significant increase in security.
Also read: Are hackers listening to you through your phone? 4 warning signs that your privacy might be at risk
3. Embrace Multi-Factor Authentication
For any app that contains sensitive information, such as banking or credit card details, always use Face ID, fingerprint recognition, or multi-factor authentication.
Dr. Fraud acknowledges, “I know it's a pain,” but stresses the importance of these measures. If your data falls into the wrong hands, it could end up on the dark web, leading to identity theft or financial loss.
Read next: Protect your privacy: Disable these risky phone settings now!
Have you taken steps to secure your smartphone? Do you have any tips or stories about maintaining digital security? Or perhaps you have questions about other ways to protect yourself online? We'd love to hear from you in the comments below!
But while you're dusting off shelves and decluttering closets, there's another kind of cleaning that's calling for your attention – digital spring cleaning. Here at The GrayVine, we're not just about keeping your home tidy; we're also committed to ensuring your digital life is spick and span.
So, let's talk about a crucial task that's often forgotten: sweeping your smartphone for security risks.
Your smartphone is a treasure trove of personal information, and it's essential to protect it from prying eyes.
Whether you've just upgraded to the latest model or you're holding onto a trusty companion, every smartphone user needs to be vigilant about security.
Dr. Fraud, a cybersecurity expert, recently highlighted this issue on Colorado ABC affiliate KMGH-TV, stating, “It's so often overlooked.”
But overlooking this can lead to a “massive” security risk. By sweeping your phone, you're not just tidying up; you're safeguarding your personal data from potential threats.
Mobile phone users are advised to sweep their phones as a precaution to address security risks, particularly when getting a new device. Image source: Rahul Chakraborty / Unsplash.
The Three-Step Sweep: A DIY Guide
You could take your phone to a professional for a security check, but that might cost more than you're willing to spend. Instead, empower yourself with these three simple steps to sweep your phone and enhance its security:
1. Review App Permissions
For both iPhone and Android users, the journey to a secure phone starts with scrutinizing app permissions, particularly location services.
Dr. Fraud advises, “Go through your apps one by one.” You might be surprised to find how many apps have access to your location and other sensitive data.
- On iPhones: Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services.
- On Androids: Go to Settings > Location > App location permissions.
From there, you can manage which apps can access your location and how often. Be cautious with apps that demand constant location tracking.
While some, like insurance apps, might offer benefits for continuous access, they also pose a privacy risk.
2. Limit Location Access
Dr. Fraud warns against allowing apps to”'always” have access to your location. It's a significant fraud risk.
Instead, choose settings that require apps to ask for permission each time they need your location. Yes, it's a few extra taps, but it's a small inconvenience for a significant increase in security.
Also read: Are hackers listening to you through your phone? 4 warning signs that your privacy might be at risk
3. Embrace Multi-Factor Authentication
For any app that contains sensitive information, such as banking or credit card details, always use Face ID, fingerprint recognition, or multi-factor authentication.
Dr. Fraud acknowledges, “I know it's a pain,” but stresses the importance of these measures. If your data falls into the wrong hands, it could end up on the dark web, leading to identity theft or financial loss.
Read next: Protect your privacy: Disable these risky phone settings now!
Have you taken steps to secure your smartphone? Do you have any tips or stories about maintaining digital security? Or perhaps you have questions about other ways to protect yourself online? We'd love to hear from you in the comments below!
