In this modern world, there is nothing like total security especially on the internet even though Android operating system for mobile phones is secure on its own but its worthy to note that it can be hacked. Nothing is fully safe on the internet for real; your identity and privacy can be compromised.
As the days goes by, hackers are developing advanced techniques to hack smartphones and gain access as easy as possible. In this article, we will talk about smartphone hacking and what you can do to secure it.
Although there is no surefire way to protect your Android from hacking, you can take a few steps to improve its security by following some of the steps below if not all.
1. Don’t Save Passwords in Browser
We tend to save our passwords on online services and sites. However, have you ever considered that if hackers got their hands on your phone, they could access all your accounts using the saved passwords?Therefore, ensure not to save all your essential passwords on online services and sites.
2. Utilize Android’s Built-in Security
You can use Android’s built-in security system to avoid hacking events. For example, you can choose various screen lock options like password, PIN, Pattern or Face, and Finger unlocks. This helps to tighten your security.If you are setting pins or patterns, make them as difficult as possible so hackers can have difficulty guessing your password/pin.
3. Avoid Third-Party App
Anything downloaded from unofficial sites can cost you a huge. You can get some paid applications for free, but those files are usually filled with adware, spyware, or viruses.So, it’s better to stop installing third-party apps and download files from only official sites, such as the Google Play Store.
4. Check what’s already on the Phone
You might have installed an app or game that looked trustworthy at first. However, subsequent updates could have turned it into a data-hogging tool. Therefore, it is best to take two minutes to review all the apps already installed on your Android smartphone.For Android, go to Settings > Apps and look at all installed apps. If you find anything suspicious, uninstall it.
5. Always Use Two-Factor Authentication
If you lock your Android device with a PIN, Password, or Fingerprint protection, let’s lock down your Google Services. Google has its two-factor authentication, which you should use to tighten security on your Android.Head to the Two-Step Verification Settings page and set up the 2-Step verification from the menu. With two-factor authentication turned on, anyone trying to hack into your accounts will need the security codes sent to your registered phone number.
6. Uninstall Unused Apps
Every Android app has security problems. Most popular apps get regular updates, but many others never get updates, and developers have discontinued support.So, if you are not using an app, get rid of it. This way, you will close one more program door for the hackers to invade. Not only that but uninstalling unused apps will also help you free up your phone’s storage.
7. Always Keep The Software Of Your Device Updated
Updating software is another good way to protect your Android from being hacked. Sometimes, hackers utilize the existing bugs in the operating system to hack users.You can quickly eliminate such events by updating your Android to the latest version. To update Android, head to Settings > About > Software update.
8. Don’t use public/Free WiFi
Always remember that free Wi-Fi can be expensive. If you connect to public Wi-Fi, hackers can see what sites you are browsing.They can even use their skills to log your keystrokes. So, to protect your Android from being hacked, stop using public Wi-Fi.
9. Turn Off the Bluetooth
Although we rarely use Bluetooth, hackers can hack your smartphone via Bluetooth. Few studies have claimed that hackers can utilize your phone’s Bluetooth functionality to get access to your phone.So, even if you can’t resist using Bluetooth, disable it after using it. It will also save the battery life of your smartphone.
10. Utilize Google’s Find My Device
Find My Device is the service provided by Google, and it helps users locate Phones in case of theft. If you have recently lost your Phone, and it ends up in the hands of hackers, they could do more damage than you can imagine. Just imagine the sensitive data that you stored on your smartphone.Hackers can use these to threaten you further. So, it’s best to utilize Google’s Find My Device service, which helps users locate a Phone whenever they need it.
11. Browse Safely
To secure your Android, you can start using Private browser apps or VPN apps. VPNs and private web browsers eliminate a wide range of trackers designed to monitor your activities.Trackers and a reliable security app can protect you from phishing or ransomware attacks. So, it’s best to use a proper security app on an Android.
These are the best ways to protect your Android device from hackers. I hope this article helps. Please share it with your friends, and you can share your suggestions in the comment box below.