With so many cybersecurity threats lurking in the digital space, one cannot be too careful. iOS smartphones have a reputation for being highly secure. However, it does not mean that users of iOS products are completely immune to all malicious actors’ attempts. Luckily, there are ways to fill all the gaps that might allow hackers to get access to your private data. Here are some of the best solutions to help you keep your iPhone security airtight.
Use Different Passwords for Your Accounts
By now, you should be aware of how dangerous it is to reuse passwords. If you use the same combination for all accounts, including the Apple account, you are putting your security at risk. If your password is leaked, all of your accounts are in jeopardy.
Fortunately, you don’t have to use an unknown app to get this fixed. Apple has introduced the iPhone password manager in iOS 12. Go to Settings -> Passwords -> Accounts -> Website and App Passwords. Look for a warning symbol and change reused passwords.
Lock Your Phone! Use Passcode, PIN, Fingerprint or Face ID
Do you keep your phone locked at all times? If yes, you can skip to the next tip, or stick around to learn how to improve the lock on your phone. In cases when people do not lock access to their phones, anyone can use them. Thieves or other suspicious parties can then read your emails and messages, use your credit card, or hijack all your online accounts.
All iPhone versions have additional security layers you can use to lock your phone when you are not using it. Make sure to use at least one of the following: passcode, PIN, fingerprint, or Face ID. If you choose to use a PIN, do your best to create a strong one. The latest iPhone 11 doesn’t come with a fingerprint sensor, which you may find inconvenient. Anyway, enable that passcode or Face ID to stay on the safe side.
Use Data Blocker When Charging Your Phone in Public Places
Are you familiar with the term juice-jacking? If not, let us give you the gist of this act. Hackers have figured out a way to hijack your phone when you are charging it in a public space. For instance, if you are charging your iPhone at an airport, hackers can inject malware in your phone or steal data while it is charging.
If you are always on the go and have no choice but to charge your phone in public areas, consider investing in a data blocker for your iPhone. It is a simple and affordable USB dongle that blocks data pins in your iPhone socket, thus preventing hackers from doing anything to your phone while it’s charging.
Be Wary of Permissions You Give to Apps
How often do you click “Allow” or “I Agree” to apps when you are installing them? Usually, people do not bother to read the terms, explaining to which features they are giving consent to. However, why would a simple game need to access your camera or contact list? In some cases, the permissions that users give to apps overstep boundaries. As a result, the creators of such overly intrusive apps can invade your privacy. So, revisit the accessibility permissions to see what data you share with specific services.
Use a VPN When Connecting to Wi-Fi Spots
Public networks are a playground for hackers. Crooks can use them to hijack your smartphone or to steal your data. You should definitely avoid using them until you are properly protected. Therefore, a VPN service is something that you should consider if you connect to free Wi-Fi spots regularly.
A Virtual Private Network or VPN is a service that can protect you from attacks when using unsecured public Wi-Fi networks. Installing a reliable VPN app on your iPhone will do wonders for your security. All your online traffic will be encrypted, and your real IP address will be hidden. As a bonus, you’ll be able to get access to geo-blocked content on Netflix, HBO, and Amazon Prime Video. If you assume that such services are expensive, you are only partially correct. For instance, the robust Atlas VPN protection is free to anyone. Therefore, if you are eager to make your iPhone more immune to intrusive attacks, consider trying this high-quality service.
All iPhone users should follow these practices if they want to stay safe online. Lastly, let us remind you that Apple is constantly discovering and fixing bugs in their products. As a final security measure, make sure to update your iPhone regularly, especially when there is a security update pending.