In 2016, it was estimated that roughly 2.1 Billion people around the world use smartphones. As you can imagine, those numbers are only set to increase with more and more countries developing and beginning to offer smartphones in their country. It is said that by 2020, there will be 2.87 billion people worldwide with smartphones (statista.com). As the increase in smartphone users rises so does the amount of theft and harassment from hackers. Hackers are finding innovative ways to tap into your personal information, and the worst part, they are doing it without you even knowing it.
Having your personal information stolen is an invasion of privacy and can also make you feel violated as you have had private information taken from you without your consent or acknowledgment. With devices now going everywhere you go, it is important that you stay informed on how to avoid threats and keep your information protected at all times.
Learning a few ways to make sure your cell phone is not hacked can help you to avoid that devastating consequence. There is nothing like having your information stolen and put out for the world to see. It can cause ripples in your personal and professional life, depending on what was stolen. Here are a few ways to help keep you protected.
Be Prepared
There are several defensive routes you can take to make sure your cell phone is not hacked. Ensure that you have an Antivirus App downloaded on your phone as one critical preventive measure. It can run silently in the background to help protect your phone from malware, spyware, and other viruses.
Use passwords for your confidential information and sites that may be stored on your phone. By having passwords setup, you can help to reduce the risk of someone getting into your phone or stealing your information. Remember not to share those passwords with anyone or keep them saved on your phone.
Operating System Flaws
Android is known for having vast quantities of different operating systems. Back in 2016, four sets of major vulnerabilities were found, known as “QuadRooter”. These vulnerabilities gave hackers root-level access to any Qualcomm device. According to statistics, these vulnerabilities were found in over 900 million Android devices. The point is, even though you may think you are safe by buying a brand new phone from a big name brand, there are always flaws that can occur or be exploited. That is why it crucial to take the necessary precautions to prevent attacks from outside threats from hackers. It all start with educating yourself and then taking action.
Unsecured Networks
Often people overlook warning of fraudulent or sketchy activity. A good example is when you are on the road and trying to connect to public Wi-Fi networks. We are all guilty of doing this, but the best thing you can do is not overlook those messages or warnings that your phone is giving you. The moment you ignore these warnings is all it takes for outside threats and malicious hackers to tap into your phone and steal your information.
Malicious Apps
It is important to always download mobile applications from legitimate sites or stores, such as iTunes and Google Play. But even then, there are millions of apps circulating around these networks that are often easy to overlook those that are harmful and made with bad intentions. It is suggested to limit the amount of apps you install and always be sure you are getting them from a credible source.
Antivirus Scan
Last but not least, you should take the necessary precautions I mentioned above, but just in case you don’t, the least you can do is download a credible Antivirus application for your mobile device. Consider running a free antivirus scan on your phone to make sure that you have not received any viruses or malware. These can help others to hack your phone if they are left on the device without you knowing. A secure app such as AVG can help you to protect your device from being hacked no matter where you are.
Final Words
Look for safety features such as camera tap that allows you to see who is in possession of your phone and also there is an option to lock your phone from anywhere so that the phone cannot be used. Take proactive steps to make sure your information is protected, and your cell phone is never hacked.
