Your phone, your laptop, and online accounts all hold very valuable personal information: messages, photos, bank details, location history, and even more. It’s all there; if you’re not careful, that data can easily fall into the wrong hands.
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Let’s have a look at how you can make sure that you are one step ahead and protect your digital life.
Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Start off by making sure that you are using strong, unique passwords for every single account. You shouldn’t be using the same password for all of them.
Avoid names, birthdays, or anything that’s easy to guess. Use a password manager to keep track of everything.
Doing this is safer than using the same password across different apps or writing them down somewhere easy to find.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Turn on two-factor authentication; most platforms have it now, so it gives you an extra layer of security that you should be making use of.
Even if someone gets your password, they’re not going to be able to access your account without having that second step in place, and you will be notified if someone tries to do so.
Be Cautious with Public Wi-Fi
Be careful when using public Wi-Fi. It might be convenient at the time, but it’s not always secure. If you need to use it, try to avoid logging into sensitive accounts such as your banking apps.
A better way for you to do this is by using a VPN, as this encryption helps to protect your data from anybody who might be snooping on the same network as you.
Regularly Update Software and Applications
You should also ensure that you are regularly updating your software and applications. Updates often include patches for known security issues that they may be facing.
Delaying updates means that you are going to be leaving your device vulnerable. Set your phone, laptop, and other devices to auto-update whenever possible.
Monitor App Permissions
Keep an eye on app permissions that you are allowing. Many apps will ask for access to your location, camera, contacts, and even your microphone, even if they don’t actually use them.
Go into your settings and make sure that you remove the permissions that just don’t make sense for certain applications.
You will limit how much of your data is being shared, and this means you are reducing the risk of leaks.
Be Cautious During Repairs
One area people often overlook in the security of their device is during repairs. If your phone or tablet breaks, then you need to make sure that you’re not just handing it off to anyone.
Make sure that you choose a service that considers data privacy as something serious. Unsecured repairs can lead to data theft, device tampering, or spyware installation.
Secure phone repair and maintenance are important parts of looking after your personal information, so make sure that any repair provider that you choose has clear policies in place for data handling and offers you a service where you know they are focused on security.
Conclusion
The digital age makes life easier; however, it does mean that your information is much more vulnerable. You need to ensure that you are following a few of the steps in this post to make sure that you are keeping your personal data safe.
Think about your own habits and how you use your phone or tablet. What do you consider most exposed? Pick one and make sure you make it more secure this week.
