The NSA Says Do This To Secure Your Phone

With the threat to mobile devices greater than ever, the National Security Agency has issued new recommendations for what Americans must do to secure their phones. Some of the suggestions may surprise you.

Disable Bluetooth when not in use.

The agency reminds people that just putting a phone in Airplane mode does not always disable Bluetooth.

To disable Bluetooth on your Android phone, open Settings. choose Connections, and slide Bluetooth into the Off position.

For iPhone, open Settings and tap Bluetooth to turn it off.

Do Not Connect To Public Wi-Fi

The NSA says you should never connect to public WiFi and you should disable WiFi when not in use.

Follow the name steps you use for turning off Bluetooth.

Why it matters: Public Wi-Fi networks can be less secure, making it easier for hackers to intercept your data.

What to do:

• Avoid accessing sensitive information (like banking apps) over public Wi-Fi.
• Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your internet connection when using public Wi-Fi.
• Turn off the automatic Wi-Fi connection feature to prevent your phone from connecting to unknown networks.

Also, make sure to disable unused WiFi networks.

Hold on to your phone

The agency warns against putting your phone down. Keep it on you or in a secure place.

Lock Your Phone

Why it matters: A locked phone prevents unauthorized access to your personal information if it’s lost or stolen.

What to do:

• Use a strong passcode, fingerprint, or facial recognition to lock your phone.
• Set your phone to lock automatically after a short period of inactivity.

Use Brand Name Charging Cords

Do not use public chargers or other people’s charging cords. Stick to brand-name charging devices from trusted manufacturers.

Cover the Mic and Camera

Hackers can take control of your phone and use your microphone to spy on you.

Consider getting a protective case that drowns the microphone and cover your camera when not in use.

Turn your device off and on at least once a week.

This protects against zero-click malware which can steal information from your phone.

Keep Your Software Updated

Why it matters: Software updates often include security patches that fix vulnerabilities. By keeping your operating system and apps up to date, you reduce the risk of being targeted by hackers.

What to do:

• Enable automatic updates for your phone’s operating system.
• Regularly check for updates in the settings menu.
• Update your apps through your phone’s app store.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Why it matters: 2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring two forms of verification before granting access.

What to do:

• Enable 2FA on your accounts whenever possible. This often involves receiving a code on your phone that you need to enter along with your password.
• Use authentication apps like Google Authenticator or Authy for more secure 2FA.

Be Mindful of App Permissions

Why it matters: Apps can request access to your personal data and phone features. Granting unnecessary permissions can compromise your privacy.

What to do:

• Review the permissions each app requests before installing it.
• Disable permissions that seem unnecessary for the app’s functionality.
• Regularly review and manage app permissions in your phone’s settings.

Backup Your Data

Why it matters: Regular backups ensure that you don’t lose your important information if your phone is lost, stolen, or damaged.

What to do:

• Use cloud services to automatically back up your data.
• Ensure that backups include your contacts, photos, messages, and other important files.
• Consider encrypting your backups for added security.

Be Wary of Phishing Scams

Why it matters: Phishing attacks can trick you into providing personal information or downloading malware.

What to do:

• Do not click on links or download attachments from unknown or suspicious emails and messages.
• Verify the identity of the sender before responding to any requests for personal information.
• Educate yourself about common phishing techniques to recognize them easily.

Install Security Software

Why it matters: Security apps can provide additional protection against malware, viruses, and other threats.

What to do:

• Install reputable security software on your phone.
• Regularly update the security app to ensure it provides the latest protection.
• Use the app to scan for and remove any potential threats.

Know What to Do If Your Phone is Lost or Stolen

Why it matters: Quick action can minimize the damage if your phone goes missing.

What to do:

• Enable features like “Find My iPhone” or “Find My Device” to locate your phone remotely.
• Consider setting your phone to automatically erase data after several failed unlock attempts.
• Report the loss to your mobile carrier and relevant authorities.