For most, a cell phone is their go-to gadget. Some may not have a computer or rely solely on their phone for everyday tasks. Security is a priority for all phone users, though. If online privacy is important to you, you’ll want to take extra steps to protect it. Here are some advanced tips & tricks for better online privacy and security.
Use a VPN
A VPN hides or spoofs your IP address. It allows you to access apps and websites, giving off a false IP instead of your own. This can prevent attacks on your system or network as well as logging of your location. It’s also useful for country restricted websites, such as Netflix. The streaming company has had a public battle against VPNs. Users could log into the site from different countries and access different media libraries. You can access free VPNs if your needs are simple or access subscription ones with varied options. PC Mag just recently named NordVPN their top Android subscription VPN.
Use a Password manager
Do you use different passwords for different websites and apps? Or do you use the same few? Passwords managers work to help both people. They store your login info and can create specific passwords for each place you visit. It’s handy if you want to log in once, rather than try and remember your password every visit to an app or website. They also protect your passwords from getting logged or recorded from typing them out. Some, like 1Password for iOS, also protect your credit card and payment details.
Use App Locks
Using apps like Snapchat to send racy photos or messages? Do you visit some communities online that you would rather keep private? Maybe getting app lock programs can help you. They provide an added safeguard against accessing places where you share vulnerable information. When app lock is in place, you need to bypass the login for each app just to access it. This can be a great addition if you’re worried about someone accessing your phone. Whether lost or left on the coffee table, putting on an app lock is an extra layer of security. You can also hide apps making them hard to find from prying eyes. They also have a Vault app, where you can lock all your sensitive media and documents in a virtual safe.
Erase Your Cache and Browsing History
Having a fast device and internet connection can lead to browsing overload. Daily commutes to work or school or surfing before bed adds up and leaves you with an extensive browsing history. To prevent your website and app usage private, be sure to clean your cache and history often. Not only will it clear your cyber footprint from your phone but it will free up space making your device faster. You can download apps that are all-in-one cleaners or ones to clean your device at certain times.
Secure your Text Messages
Your text messages are delicate, and you don’t want them shared with just anyone. Whether sharing intimate photos with your spouse or touchy subjects with friends it is important to keep them private. There are apps you can download to archive your chats and protect them with a password. You can hide them from wandering eyes and keep your conversations secret. You can also use 3rd-party messaging apps like WhatsApp, which don’t log your conversations. You can delete conversations and contacts when you’re through with them. With apps like CoverMe for iOS, users can set time limits on their messages to automatically delete.
Secure Your Phone
Just like your home computer or laptop, you need to secure your phone from viruses and spyware. Madware, or mobile adware, is a pesky problem when not guarded against. Same as phishing and exploits in apps and browsers that reveal concealed contents. Look into an anti-virus program that you have at home. It’s worth the added cost, and you can be sure to you’re guarded in real time. Avira offers both PC and mobile solutions for both iOS and Android. They also have a Vault app, where you can lock all your sensitive media and documents. Also, make sure you have firewall and make sure your apps are up to date and downloaded from the app stores.
Secure Your Email
Email is another awesome perk of cell phones and one that is crucial to keep secure. When sending emails, ou may be sharing personal and professional notes worth looking after. Look no further than Hillary Clinton to see the effect of insecure email has on someone. There are apps that encrypt your emails before sending them. Companies such as Countermail offer many secure features, such as encryption for both parties. Proton Mail who have servers in Switzerland, which make them inaccessible by American law. They don’t record your IP address and you have both a login and mail password. You can use the app lock mentioned in this article for further security. Always back up your contacts and data in case you need to reset your phone.
Lock Screens and Lost Devices
Lock screens can be a pain but a blessing for a missing device. While you may find it annoying to remember yet another pin or pattern, having a lock screen is essential. It’s your first defense against intrusive hands. Both Android and iPhone’s have GPS and face recognition to make the experience easier. Apps like ZUI Locker-Elegant Lock Screen give you several unlocking choices and the backgrounds can be personalized. Another useful feature to consider using is lost device protection. It ensures that if you lose your phone, you can secure the contents. Find My iPhone will lock your lost or stolen device so that it can’t be accessed without your Apple ID login info. It also locates your phone via GPS and other methods.
Your cell phone can be your most trusted companion. It holds all your secrets, your contacts, your banking and business details. Follow these advanced tips and tricks for online privacy and security to safeguard your devices. Add programs like data cleaners and app locks. Include a lock screen and opt into trusted device tracking features. Use a VPN to protect your browsing and email encryption for your messages. Make passwords stronger and safer with password managers and add the same anti-virus protection you would to your PC. With these tricks, your device can be intact both on you or when it’s missing.
