In this technological era, more than 60% of people use mobile devices to get information and do online shopping. Smartphones now define businesses’ presence and digital identity. As per the statistics, over 70% of mobile users across the world use Android. Smartphones help people be socially active by providing several apps and social media sites like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc. It’s a known fact that the modern world is relying on smartphones. In the case of losing your smartphone, you lose more than just your contacts. So, it’s essential to secure android device.
Here are the top 10 ways to secure your Android device:
1. Use phone locks
2. Use two-factor authentication
3. Use a VPN
4. Use anti-virus software
5. Browse in safe mode
6. Update Android device
7. Use biometric authentication tools
8. Backups are essential
9. Don’t allow smartphones to save passwords
10. Rooting can be devastating
1. Use Phone Locks
Using a phone lock is one of the best ways to keep your Android phones secure. Locking your mobile screen helps you in numerous ways. Many might think it’s a simple tip, but technically there’s a chance of losing your data without locking your phone.
What kind of password should you use for locking your smartphone?
Well! “Pin code” is the best way.
All the remaining types of passwords can be easily hacked. Pin code might be an old way to lock your mobiles, but it still stands out.
2. Use Two-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication (2FA) keeps your accounts secure. In order to make your Android mobile safe from hackers, many websites and online portals have introduced two-factor authentication. So, if you are not using it for all your social media accounts and Google (for example), you have to incorporate it right away.
With 2FA, if you are trying to open an account from your smartphone, it will send a code to your email address and mobile number. Implementation of two-factor authentication on Android is pretty straightforward. Here’s is the process for you:
Open “Settings” on your Android device —> Go to “Google” and then “Good Account” —> Tap “Security” —> Then locate “Signing in to Google” —> Tap “Get started.“
3. Use a VPN
Virtual Private Network (VPN) makes your Android more secure like iOS. It can only be possible only if you set up a VPN on your smartphone. Despite having many risks involved, VPN adds an additional security layer to the internet connection. VPNs are reliable and provide excellent customer support. It offers dedicated applications for all major devices.
4. Use Anti-Virus Software
The anti-virus software resolves all the issues related to your Android security, like bugs or malware in your smartphone. Even though the in-built Google Play protects your phone, an antivirus strengthens your Android security.
5. Browse in Safe Mode
It is always best to use “Google Chrome” in normal situations as the default Android browser because it warns you in cases of opening unsecured websites. Also, you can keep your Android device protected.
In order to use “Safe Browsing Mode,” you can follow below steps:
Launch “Google browser” on your Android —> Tap on the menu in the toolbar —> Then click on “New Incognito Window.” —> “Google Chrome” will be opened in incognito mode with all the add-ons disabled.
6. Update Android Device
If you want to keep your Android thoroughly secure, you must keep your mobile operating system and mobile apps up-to-date.
There might be a chance of security threats if you don’t update your Operating System (OS). That is because various bugs and malware attack through the vulnerabilities in the old software. The issues can become bigger with few applications that are favorites for the bugs and viruses. Google Pixel is an example that needs protection. Often, keep your smartphone updated to address all such concerns.
7. Use Biometric Authentication Tools
Nowadays, there are numerous latest authentication tools like fingerprint authentication and face authentication. They can make it difficult for the unauthentic person to access your Android. The popularity and adoption of biometric authentication make it easier to press your fingertip on the sensor than typing long passwords.
Besides, it is more convenient than carrying the security key. No one can steal biometric authentication information, such as your fingertip or face, unlike pin codes and passwords.
8. Backups are Essential
Backup is essential for every smartphone user. You can keep backups in smart cards, One Drive, Google Drive, or external hard drives. Even if someone steals your Android phone, backup ensures you have all your information/data with you safely.
9. Don’t Allow Smartphones to Save Passwords
In general, most users save passwords for all applications that they have been using commonly. It can save time and help in avoiding remembering passwords. However, it’s not recommended if you are serious about Android phone security.
Apart from avoiding not permitting applications to save passwords, you must use complex passwords.
You might ask, how do I remember the password?
The solution is you can use a password manager. It can be beneficial in two ways: remembering all the passwords and staying secure all the time.
10. Rooting Can be Devastating
Android users love rooting because of its numerous benefits. Some people believe rooting boosts battery life, and a few others say it helps install apps and customize the mobile phone. However, if you root your device, the Android security model can be compromised. It is because the root applications have more access to your device when it is rooted. In this article, you can Download Magisk latest version to root your device.
Conclusion
Android phones are known to be an easy target for most hackers. Smartphone snatching is becoming quite common across the world. Both these reasons make Android phone protection vital, especially for the users who keep sensitive information/data in their mobile phones. It is essential to stay updated with the best practices to secure your smartphones as hackers keep tracking smartphones. The security best practices and modifications listed above help you improve Android security by a great deal. These tips keep your device up-to-date and make Android more secure. Hope this article helps you.
