1. Enable strong passwords and two-factor authentication (2FA)
It may sound simple, but setting a strong password is your first line of defense. Many people still use easy-to-guess passwords like “123456” or “password,” making it effortless for hackers to break in. According to a 2023 survey by Digital Security Magazine, 30% of smartphone users rely on weak or default passwords, which leaves them vulnerable.
What should you do? Always use a complex combination of letters, numbers, and symbols. Don’t stop there – enable two-factor authentication (2FA) as an extra layer of protection. With 2FA, even if someone guesses your password, they’ll need a second verification step, usually a one-time code sent to your phone or email, to access your data.
2. Keep your operating system and apps updated
Regularly updating your operating system (iOS or Android) and all apps on your device can reduce your exposure to attacks. You can set your phone to update automatically, so you don’t have to think about it every time an update is available.
However, you should not think that updating iOS alone is enough if the system is already infected. How to get rid of malware on the iPhone? Unfortunately, it will not be easy to clean viruses on the iPhone.
However, the format of this article will not allow us to provide instructions on how to get rid of viruses on iPad. Just use the virus removal guide, it describes the main steps in detail. In addition to how to clean your iPhone from viruses, you can also learn about the signs that your device is infected.
3. Use encrypted communication channels
Business communication often involves sensitive information, and sending this data over unsecured networks can expose it to third parties. If you’re using your smartphone to send emails, messages, or make calls related to your business, consider using apps that provide end-to-end encryption.
Popular messaging apps like Signal or WhatsApp offer encrypted communications, ensuring that only the sender and recipient can view the message content. Moreover, for emails, services like ProtonMail offer encrypted email communication, which adds another level of security when handling confidential information.
4. Avoid using public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi may be convenient, especially when you’re at a coffee shop or an airport, but it is a hotbed for cyberattacks. A shocking 2019 report by Symantec revealed that 60% of public Wi-Fi networks are unsecure, making it easier for hackers to intercept the data being transferred over them.
Instead of using public Wi-Fi, opt for a Virtual Private Network (VPN). This can be a VPN extension or an application on a smartphone or PC. A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, making it nearly impossible for anyone to see what you’re doing online.
You can also rely on your mobile data connection, which is generally more secure than public Wi-Fi.
5. Install a mobile security app
Just like computers, smartphones can be infected with malware and viruses. Installing a reputable mobile security app can help detect threats before they cause damage. Many mobile security apps offer real-time scanning, malware detection, and even features like remote wiping in case your phone is lost or stolen.
You need antivirus scanners to detect infections and tools to protect your device in the future. VPN by VeePN with its encryption and virus detection is ideal for the role of a tool for constant data and device protection. This tool helps mitigate the risk of infections and can alert you to suspicious activity or vulnerabilities on your device.
6. Backup your data regularly
Imagine losing your smartphone and all the critical business data stored on it – it’s a nightmare scenario. Unfortunately, this happens more often than you’d think.
Backing up your data regularly ensures that, in case of theft or loss, you won’t lose important business information. Most smartphones allow you to automatically back up data to the cloud (iCloud for iPhones, Google Drive for Android), making recovery easy if something happens to your device.
