How Safe Is Your Smart Phone
Nowadays, the majority of us have a smartphone. Many consider access to one an essential part of day to day life. Unlike in the past, when phones were used to make calls, text and maybe play a game of Snake, modern smartphones allow us to carry out a wide array of tasks, helping us to make our way through our day to day lives conveniently and effectively. Some of us work from our phones, read the news on our phones, shop on our phones and so much more. With much of our personal data stored in these devices – for example, professional information, personal conversations and images, bank details and more – it’s not all too surprising that more of us are growing increasingly concerned over our phone’s security. Here’s some information that should help you to determine how safe your phone is and whether it’s time to make some changes to increase your security and privacy.
The Security Features on Your Phone
Different devices have different security features. Regardless of your device, make a good disaster recovery plan, just in case. It’s best to be prepared.
Android security
Android is run by Google and has some fairly impressive ways to keep you safe from any hackers or malware that may be targeting your phone. Here are some to be aware of:
- All apps are run in an isolated “sandbox” area where people can’t access anything without your permission
- You can choose from a number of different “locks” to protect your device and information stored within it
- Android devices get routine and automatic security updates
- Google Play uses comprehensive scanning tools to check for the authenticity of different apps’ on the storefront, preventing you from downloading dodgy apps
iOS security
Apple has the best security available. Some features to look out for on iOS devices include:
- Boot-time scans that ensure the stability and authenticity of your device every time you start it up
- You can physically secure your device with PIN codes, biometrics, and other forms of locks
- iOS has built in encryption that prevents third parties from accessing any data they’re not allowed to view
- Apple only allows you to download apps from their official App Store, where all apps are checked to be authentic
- All apps are in a sandbox environment on iOS too
- There are significantly fewer viruses and less malware designed for iOS devices
Security Updates
Over time, Android and Apple’s iOS systems have been developed to keep up with new security threats that face the average user. These companies want to keep your personal information safe and have ensured new devices are constantly becoming more secure. Of course, this means that you do have to upgrade your phone every so often to keep up with the best security updates on offer. Individuals using older devices prove easier targets for hackers and other cybercriminals. It’s important to be aware that some Android phones stop receiving security updates after just two years. Apple iPhones do provide more longevity with their security, providing security updates for between five and six years for each device. If you have an older phone, you may want to consider upgrading to remain secure.
