We’ve all heard the phrase “More Money, More Problems”. And while this is certainly true in the experience of many, there’s a deeper truth that this idiom hints at. Complexity breeds complexity. If you own a large house, it’s harder to keep up with than a small house. The same is true of any number of jobs, possessions, and bodies. It’s also true of gadgets like smartphones. In the old days, it was easy to own a phone. They couldn’t do much, of course, but they were unlikely to be stolen, and even if they were, big deal right?
That’s not true anymore. Anyone who has your smartphone has your identity. They also have access to your email, social media accounts, banking information, as well as troves of personal data. If someone breaks into your phone, and they know what they’re doing, you could have your identity stolen in minutes, the recovery of which could take years.
Fortunately there are many ways to protect your phone and the data it contains. Here are a few.
Protect the Device Itself.
A phone is so much more than a phone these days, and that’s why they cost so much. If your phone is stolen, you may be out $1000 or more. The same is true if you damage or break your phone in some accident. Gadget insurance is a great way to prepare for accidents and theft. Just pay your monthly premium and you’re covered, no matter what happens.
Always Use PINs.
A simple 4-digit PIN is enough to keep your phone from being accessed by someone who might find or steal it. 2-step identification may be necessary if you need extra security for whatever reason.
Use a VPN.
A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is a tremendous way to guard and anonymize your browsing history. This is one of the best ways to protect your device from prying eyes, be they hackers, fraudsters, or the government. Using a VPN in tandem with certain internet privacy tactics will maximize its effectiveness. Just make sure to go with a VPN company that does not record your data at all!
Use 2-step Identification in All Applications.
Two-stage identification is a great way to protect access to sites that used to require only one password. Once you’ve input your password, a unique code will either be texted or emailed to a number of your choosing. It’s a little inconvenient to always have to access a new code to get into your accounts, but it’s a small price to pay for security, knowing that anyone who got your phone would not have easy access to any account.
Be Careful With Email.
Email is Skywriting, the saying goes. In 2017 this is more true than ever. Try not to have information in your email by which a hacker could steal your identity.
Once you’ve incorporated these privacy and encryption methods into your phone use, your phone will be much more secure. So will your personal identity, which is pretty much priceless.
