Ten Things To Do To Keep Your iPhone Secure
Mobile security attacks have skyrocketed this
year. There has been a 50% increase in cybercriminals targeting
smartphones. Although an iPhone has some formidable security features, it can
be breached. Todayâs cyber attackers have a multitude of tools at their
disposal that they can employ to infiltrate your iPhoneâs security. Here are
ten ways to boost your iPhoneâs security.
Updates are the first line of defense when it
comes to protecting
your iPhone. Cybercriminals are constantly on the lookout for
vulnerabilities in the iPhoneâs operating system. Once they find an opening,
they develop a plethora of malware tools to exploit the loophole. A device that
is behind in updates will be easier to hack and take control of. Updating your
iOS on time will patch these openings and lockout hackers. To get the latest
versions, turn on the automatic update settings.
Instead of using a four-digit pin, switch to a
longer and stronger password. Short passwords can easily be cracked and
bypassed. A person may observe you entering the code and cram the numbers, or
they may predict or guess the code. Once inside your iPhone, they can access
everything from your messages, photos, documents to emails. To build a stronger
password, use a combination of letters, digits, and symbols. Just make sure you
can remember the password youâve set.
Two-step verification is an improved layer of
protection designed to makes sure that nobody can access your account even if
they have your password. You can utilize it for Apple ID and iCloud. The latest
iOS versions come with the newer and more advanced two-factor authentication model. Instead of
sending an unencrypted four-digit SMS to your iPhone, a secure six-digit code
is automatically displayed on a trusted device that you have registered. You
can then use this code to log in.
Utilizing Touch ID and Face ID can help improve
your iPhones security. With these security measures in place, it will be harder
for someone to unlock your phone when you leave it somewhere, or it gets
stolen. For increased security, combine these biometric security features with
a passcode.
Lock screen notifications can give away a lot of
information. If you arenât near your phone, a snoopy person can view your
messages, emails, and app information just by looking at your screen. To avoid
giving away any sensitive information, hide incoming notifications.
Although Siri is a great personal assistant, it can expose some
information that you would prefer to remain confidential. A hacker can
manipulate it to get to your private data, or even unlock your phone, without
having to enter a passcode. Fortunately, you donât have to disable this helpful
smart assistant completely. Just change the settings to prevent it from
activating from a lock screen.
When you sync your iPhone with your personal
computer, your data can be accessed by anyone who uses your PC. They can find
your passwords, contacts, location, and other sensitive information. To stay
safe, encrypt every backup. You can do this by connecting to iTunes and
activate the Encrypt iPhone backup option by checking the box and setting a
password. For anyone to access the backup, theyâll need to enter that password.
Although itâs tempting to jailbreak your phone
and run some unauthorized apps, it isnât worth the risk. There are many
downsides that come with modifying your iOS, and the major one is insecurity. A
jailbroken device is vulnerable to attacks as you wonât be able to receive the
latest software updates. You may also
end up installing unauthorized apps that are malicious.
When browsing, be careful of the sites you
visit. Some websites have been exploiting loopholes in iOS and installing
infected files on devices. Although most of these security holes are being
plugged, sophisticated hacking techniques continue to emerge. When browsing,
confirm any link before clicking, donât download attachments from unknown
sources, deny apps the permissions to access your data, and disable cookies in
your browser.
To mask your online identity, get a virtual
private network tool. This program encrypts your internet traffic on each end,
preventing hackers from accessing your data. Whether you are accessing a
private or public network, you can rest assured that cybercriminals wonât
intercept your data at any point.
Today, we use our mobile devices to perform a
multitude of tasks, from getting in touch with friends and family, transacting
money to conducting business. Cyber attackers know our devices carry a wealth
of information; thatâs why they are increasingly targeting them. If you havenât
updated your iPhoneâs security, itâs time to get it done.
Information security specialist, currently working as risk infrastructure specialist & investigator.
15 years of experience in risk and control process, security audit support, business continuity design and support, workgroup management and information security standards.
Gloss