Protect Your Smartphone With These Simple Security Steps
A lost or stolen smartphone is more than inconvenient — it’s a major privacy risk. With rising phone thefts, securing your device is critical. Check to make sure you’re utilizing these powerful features on your device.
1. Enable Stolen Device/Theft Protection:
Apple’s Stolen Device Protection locks iPhones in unfamiliar locations, rendering them useless without your Apple ID. Android’s Theft Protection uses AI to detect theft and locks devices automatically. Activate these features in your settings.
2. Turn On Advanced Data Protection:
Apple encrypts iCloud data like photos and messages, while Google’s Advanced Protection secures sensitive Android data. Ensure your device is updated and enable these options in account settings.
3. Use Passkeys And Biometrics:
Log in securely with Face ID, Touch ID, or passkeys to eliminate password risks.
4. Accept Updates and Patches:
You should keep your phone’s operating system software up-to-date by enabling automatic updates or accepting updates when prompted from your service provider, operating system provider, device manufacturer, or application provider. By keeping your operating system current, you reduce the risk of exposure to exposed data if your phone is lost or stolen.
5. Report a Stolen Smartphone:
The major wireless service providers, in coordination with the FCC, have established a stolen phone database. If your phone is stolen, you should report the theft to your local law enforcement authorities and then register the stolen phone with your wireless provider. This will provide notice to all the major wireless service providers that the phone has been stolen and will allow for remote “bricking” of the phone so that it cannot be activated on any wireless network without your permission.
Take these steps to safeguard your phone and enjoy peace of mind. For more information and resources on mobile and cybersecurity, visit the Department of Homeland Security’s Stop.Think.Connect. Campaign at www.dhs.gov/stopthinkconnect.
