How to Keep Your Phone Safe from Hackers?

Hacking has become so common in the world that it now reaches businesses, governments, and individuals. Hackers do this to steal some data, spread viruses, or create some kind of disruption. The more individuals and companies are using the internet to work, shop, or communicate, the bigger the opportunity for hackers to find weaknesses. To avoid these risks, everybody must be cautious while surfing the internet and keeping strong passwords, then updating the software. Here we will describe some points for keeping your phone safe from hackers.

What is Hacking?

Hacking is the act of getting unauthorized access to computers, networks, or data. Hackers use various means to bypass security systems. Most hackers hack with malicious purposes and lead to data fraud, privacy invasion, even damage to companies and some individuals. In a simple wording, hacking is just “unlocking” the closed door that prevents undesirable elements from entering to improve it’s security.

Tips to keep your Phone safe from hackers

• Use Strong and Unique Passwords: Avoid using the common passwords “123456” or “password.” You should set a strong PIN, password, or biometric security, like fingerprint or face unlock, on your phone.
  If there are applications using sensitive information, include other security features within the application.
• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): It’s another verification step other than your password-it provides you with an extra code through SMS or an authentication app in addition to knowing your password.
  Use 2FA for those accounts containing sensitive information (email, social media, banking).
• Update Your Software: Updates from your phone’s operating system, whether iOS or Android, patch most of the security vulnerabilities that hackers prefer to exploit. Download application updates frequently as updates also carry security patches.
• Avoid Suspicious Links and Attachments: Avoid clicking links and downloading attachments from the sender whom you do not know.
  – You are vulnerable to phishing attacks with your data by hackers because they could send you fake links or emails.
• Install Only Trusted Apps: Download apps from authorized sources such as Google Play or Apple’s App Store.  However, be careful not to download apps that request you to give unknown permissions that may include contacts or location data.
• Be Very Careful with Public Wi-Fi: Hackers can access your data through public Wi-Fi.
  If you have to use a public Wi-Fi, avoid accessing sensitive accounts, or use the VPN to secure your connection.
• Activate Find My Device: Enable Find My iPhone for iOS users or Find My Device in Android, so you can locate, lock, and even wipe the phone, in case of loss or theft.
• Turn Off Bluetooth and Location Services unless necessary: Bluetooth and location-based services also are potential entry points for hackers: turn them on only when necessary.
• Be aware of Unknown Messages: Be cautious with messages especially those that have links or even time-sensitive. Some hackers will send texts or even emails that appear to be from a trusted source but are actually phishing.

Common Signs that a phone may be hacked

1.  Sudden Battery Drain: A phone may be showing sudden battery drain without any apparent cause.
   It is running processes out of sight, which means malicious activity.
2. Massive Data Usage: Sudden data utilization may indicate malware running and sending data to hackers without the user’s knowledge.
3. Slow Performance: If you experience slow responses, it may mean your device is infected with malware.
4. Pop-Ups and Ads: Even when no applications are running, ads and pop-ups can appear on your phone.
5. Unknown Calls or Messages: If you receive messages or calls which you never sent or dialed, then you phone is compromised.
6. Overheating: If your phone is very hot, then malware is probably running in the background and consuming much of your device’s resources.
7. Other Suspicious Apps: You don’t know new applications installing on your phone is hacking or a virus.
8. Suspicious Activities on Associated Accounts: Any unauthorized login or changes to your email, social media, or bank accounts connected to your phone might be a sign that someone is accessing the device.

Take Action If You Suspect Your Phone Is Hacked.

1. Unplug the Internet: Switch off Wi-Fi and mobile data to prevent further information extraction.
2. Remove Suspicious Applications: Go through the list of your applications and remove them if you are not sure they belong there.
3. Run a security scan: Use a legitimate antivirus app to scan your phone for malware.
4. Do a factory reset: For a last resort, there’s a factory reset; it will remove all your malware, but it erases all your data and so you must back up some data first.
5. Reach out to your service provider: They can help you with the security of the device.

Final Words

Maintaining a safe phone requires regular upkeep. These tips help you minimize hacking opportunities and quickly detect any compromises that may occur. Follow these steps to keep safe your phone from hackers.