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9 Essential Smartphone Security Tips

9 Essential Smartphone Security Tips

June 3, 2021 by eStormAus

We live in world where our entire lives can be accessed through our phones. Think of all the personal information that is stored on your device; photos, banking details, names and addresses, work/personal emails, social media profiles, and geolocation that tracks your every movement. It’s no conspiracy that apps are stealing and selling your data, so how do you retain your privacy and security when it’s so readily available?

The only way to guarantee no application or website will ever steal your personal information again is to throw your phone in the ocean, delete all social media, email and subscription accounts, withdraw every dollar from your savings, and spend a life ‘off-the-grid’. However, unless you’re a hermit living off the land in a wooden cabin situated in a remote area, this isn’t exactly feasible. That’s why we’ve put together 9 tips to keep your phone safe from hackers and your data hidden from prying eyes.

1. Use a Password Manager

I have been 100% guilty of using the same passwords across my internet banking, emails and social media accounts. Is this easy and practical? Yes. Is it safe? Not in the slightest!

In the case of a data breach, hackers can gain access to your login details. Using the same email and password combination for all of your logins means a cybercriminal can potentially own the master key to accessing every one of your accounts that use the same email and password combo.

The strongest passwords are comprised of letters, numbers and symbols in a string of no particular order or sense. These passwords should look like a cat just walked across your keyboard (for example: jR7z5$R?68<*G>M). However, while randomly generated passwords are difficult for computers to crack, they veer on being impossible to remember; especially if you are using a different password for each of your accounts (which you indeed should).

Fortunately, with a Password Manager you won’t need to frantically search for the scrap of paper you wrote your Netflix password on and then ‘hid in a safe place’, or compile a Word document listing all of your logins. Password Managers keep all of your passwords in one encrypted and password-protected app. They can also generate strong unique passwords and save your credit card and shipping information to readily autofill forms.

Check out LastPass for a free and secure Password Manager, accessible on both your phone and your computer.

2. Watch What You Download/Install

We all love checking out and installing new apps on the Google Play or Apple store, but how many of these apps are actually safe? When you install a new app, you may be asked to grant permissions including the ability to read files or access your camera/microphone and your location. Most of the time there are legitimate reasons for granting these permissions, but if an app won’t allow you to use it without permissions then think twice about downloading it. This is especially true for Android users, as the Google Play store’s vetting processes aren’t as strict as Apple’s.

Additionally, a quick Google search can generally tell you if the app is legitimate. These searches can reveal if data or privacy breaches are a common occurrence, and whether or not the app is a scam. Avoid apps that have been breached multiple times as this suggests they are aware of the breaches and are doing nothing to solve them.

Another sign that you may have downloaded an app with malicious intent is if you notice changes in your phone. If it is heating up or has slowed significantly, this suggests the app may be running in the background.

3. Review Apps and Permissions

If you’ve owned your phone for a while, you probably have apps installed that you haven’t looked twice at in quite some time. You should regularly review apps and delete ones you no longer have a use for. Not only do these apps take up unnecessary space, but they could also no longer be supported, creating avenues for potential cyber criminals to crack and gain access to your device.

On top of this, review the permissions on apps you already have on your phone. We suggest frequently going through each app and inspecting which permissions have been set. You should ask yourself whether it makes sense for the app to access certain permissions. For example, most games do not need to access to your location or your camera and microphone, and a calculator app certainly does not need to view your contact list.

4. Safeguard Your Social Media Accounts

Social media often plays a vital role in our daily lives, regardless of whether you use it to connect with loved ones on your personal profile or to share information with your clients and consumers. Apps such as Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram are goldmines of personal information so it’s important that you follow these essential tips to keep your data and info safe.

Use a strong password

If you have a weak password, the chances of your account’s security becoming compromised grow exponentially. Use a unique and strong password (refer back to the Use a Password Manager section of this blog) and enable two-factor authentication. This can be enabled in the settings of your social media app.

Update your privacy and security settings

Security Settings: If you’re like me, you rarely ever check the privacy and security settings on your social media accounts unless you notice something fishy or strange going on. It’s important that you regularly revisit your settings and check the devices you are logged into. If you notice any devices or places that you don’t recognise, you can log out of any chosen (or all) devices and reset your password. In the security section of your account, you can also enable two factor authentication, change your password, and authorise logins and accounts.

Privacy Settings: In a world where anyone can search your name and find your social media account, it’s important that you set strict privacy settings to protect your personal information and the things you share on your social media. It’s recommended that you hide all of your posts and personal info (such as where you work, what town you live in, where you go to school) and display this info only to people who are on your friends list. That way if anyone tries to look you up, they will get the bare minimum of info (such as your profile photo and name) and will need to send a friend or follow request in order to get more information.

5. Update Software and Apps

Everyone dreads the ‘Update OS’ notifications, and it’s likely that you often forget to do so. However, failing to update your software can cause critical issues in the integrity of the security of your device, as these updates keep your phone one step ahead of hackers and the latest methods of exploitation. Set your phone’s setting to update automatically during the night so you don’t forget to install critical OS updates. Also set all of your apps (particularly your internet banking) to auto-update.

6. Use a VPN on Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi offers the opportunity to get work done in cafes/restaurants and provides access to the internet when you are low on data or overseas, but it can also leave your phone open and vulnerable to other people lurking on the same public network. As such, we recommend downloading a VPN app to keep your data safe. A VPN not only shields you from potential hackers or snoopers but can also mask your data transmissions. There are dozens of VPN apps available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store for free, but some may have questionable practices so conduct thorough research before installing one. The most popular VPN apps are:

Android: NordVPN, TunnelBear, Kaspersky

Apple: ProtonVPN, Hide.me, TunnelBear

7. Install a Security/Antivirus App

Similar to any antivirus apps you may have installed on your PC, it’s also recommended you install one on your phone. There are offshoots to desktop apps such as Avast, McAfee, and Panda, along with many others. These apps provide enhanced security by ensuring any apps, PDFs, images and other files you download are free from malicious malware or ransomware before you open them.

8. Use Built-In Smartphone Protections

Take advantage of your phone’s built-in security to safeguard your device if it is lost or stolen. By enabling Find My iPhone or Find My Device, you can locate your missing device on a map and automatically erase the information. You can also set the phone to delete all information after a set number of incorrect password attempts.

9. Prevent iPhone Apps from Tracking You (iOS 14.5)

iPhone recently added a new feature in iOS 14.5 that allows you to keep your online information more private by enabling the option to turn off ad tracking within your apps. This means that unless you give specific permission to an app, it can’t use your data for targeted ads, share your location data or use your advertising ID with advertisers or third parties. You can enable the App Tracking Transparency feature in Settings > Privacy > Tracking.

Conclusion

While we can’t guarantee that your device will lever be 100% safe from cybercriminals and hackers, following these 9 essential steps will ensure you have basic protections in place for the safety of your personal information and data.

Filed Under: Blog

eStorm Service Centre Google Reviews

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Gary Fraser
01:10 11 Sep 24
Four weeks ago, I took my cracked iPad to this store for repair. The employee behind the counter informed me that because I did not have AppleCare, Apple does not fix iPads but rather replaces them entirely. He advised me to take it to an unauthorized repair shop, despite me explaining that the iPad was less than 12 months old. He insisted that Apple would not fix it.I followed his advice and had the iPad repaired elsewhere. However, it has now stopped charging. When I returned to your store, I was told that because someone had previously opened the device, this store could no longer assist with the repair. The first employee failed to inform me about this critical detail.As a result, I’m now stuck with a $1,300 device that doesn’t work. I feel misled and frustrated by the lack of proper guidance from the staff
Priscilla Parata-Reeves
00:58 03 Sep 24
Top notch customer service ,fast, reliable and trustworthy!My daughter cracked her iPhone 15 front screen! Luckily the phone was only 3 weeks old and eligible for apple care+! Dallas did an excellent job. Left the phone with him at around 9am and picked up at 10:30am !!!!!Also so convenient as I don’t have to drive out of spring field to get the repair done- saving me travel time and money!!!!!Will be going back in the future.Happy customer.
Bob Dix
21:19 26 Aug 24
Lachlan Fothergill
01:41 25 Jul 24
Very professional at handling airpods repair
Adele Rankin
03:56 19 Jul 24
Exceptional service.
Beatrice Ndebele
07:36 22 Sep 22
Fantastic service, was referred by Apple after MacBook developed a dark screen and wouldn’t turn off. I was informed of possibility to pay for diagnostic fee and expect to leave it for a fee days. I found the gentlemen friendly and accommodating. The service was prompt, fair subsequent charges. My MacBook had storage issues, I got a new laptop and they helped transferring my data. I will certainly be going back to them in future and I strongly recommend these professionals to anyone having issues with their devices.
julie farrell
06:28 02 Sep 22
2 nd time I have used this service. Needed new battery for my iphone 6 s in 2020. Then 2022 had a battery replaced in my iphone 7. Both times have been brilliant. Such a smooth and well organised service. The fellas at the counter on every occassion have been very patient and helpful. Thanks again, highly recommended
Gary wylie
09:28 01 Sep 22
Quick service. Reasonable pricing .Would recommend for apple repairs
Joel Berry
10:08 23 Aug 22
Awesome service, with a quick turn over. Genuine apple product dealers, most issues under warranty and or insurance will be covered free of charge or for a small cost.Highly recommended.
John Florez
00:27 11 Jul 22
Very knowledgeable, friendly and 100% helpful. They explained all the options and their pros and cons to improve my iMac's performance. My computer is now running much faster with these upgrades. Great Work! Highly recommended!
Melissa Moana
05:16 13 Jun 22
i had no idea they were here awesome service way better than having to travel to carindale
Desiree S
07:52 27 May 22
I discovered this apple repairer by chance and now I recommend them to everyone. Great service and reasonable prices.
Emily Martin
04:45 22 Feb 22
Dropped my MacBook in just shy of 3 years old with a battery issue. The team were very prompt in email response and with the computer. Dropped Saturday, said it would be ready Wednesday. To my surprise it was ready today (Tuesday) a whole day early. Even better they covered the replacement of the battery under warranty. Highly recommended!
Kyle PM
07:59 01 Feb 22
Great and easy service. Much simpler to deal with than an Apple store for repairs. As an IT professional, will definitely be back if a staff member breaks their phone. (Let's be honest, they will).
Ricardo Sé Cestari
23:30 02 Jun 20
Good professional service. Job well done and in a better than expected timeframe.
Kathryn Chee
06:38 15 May 20
Phone came back good as new after a nasty cracked screen. Service was efficient although I did have to come back 24hours later as they didn’t have my colour iphone Instock - so maybe call ahead the day before if you want same day screen repair?
Stevan Kostantinovic
23:01 05 May 20
Very helpful and professional staff as they are Apple certified and did a great job replacing my sisters broken macbook pro screen.Always remember, you get what you pay for.
Ivan ZiHao Tan
10:12 29 Apr 20
Effective and honest! It’s a nice and not busy place to get your IT stuff fixed. It is a bit out of the way but if you’re around west side, just go there. Traffic is smooth too!
Oliver Baumeister
21:38 06 Mar 20
Good service, quick repair of my MacBook Pro under warranty. 3 days to replace ‘top case’ (keyboard, trackpad, etc). Very satisfied.
Bradley Witham
01:43 03 Feb 20
Great shop. Highly recommended. Professional and very helpful staff. Did a great job for me. Will be back for sure - even though it’s over 1hr drive from my home!
Evan g
01:49 07 Jan 20
Friendly and knowledgeable staff coupled with quick service even during a busy period.
Jaidyn Somerville
22:59 01 Nov 19
Quick and professional service, I was told my MacBook would be ready in 2/3 business days and received a text to confirm it was ready two days later. Kept me informed with updates too. Defiently recommend these guys.
Mike C
09:09 23 Oct 19
Friendly, professional staff. Perfect job replacing Macbook keyboard and screen, all with a very quick turnaround. Best Apple experience yet - highly recommended.
Mark Schulz
01:15 04 Sep 19
My second time using the service - first for an iPhone battery replacement and this time to replace the battery in a Macbook Air. Service is great. Will continue to use them into the future.
Jason O'Connor
01:25 28 Aug 19
What a terrible experience dealing with eStorm in Springfield Lakes. After spending an hour on live chat with Apple last night they said that there was an issue with phone and to take it to one of their retail stores or to an authorised service centre. The closest to us was eStrom Service Centre in Springfield Lakes. We were booked in there by Apple who were 100% aware of the phone being out of warranty but due to the issue they were happy for it to be taken in. When my wife got there she was greeted by someone called Dallas who then proceeded to ask her for $40 as a diagnosis fee. At no stage were we made aware that there would be a fee even though Apple were aware of the phone being out of warranty. When my wife made him aware of that he said that it was their policy and there was nothing they could do about it. My wife turned around and walked out. I called to ask what the story was and Dallas said exactly what I have written above. No consideration about the fee, it was internal policy and not their problem that Apple didn't tell us about it. So disappointed at this experience and will never be using them again or would ever recommend them to anyone.
Kelley Knudsen
07:58 16 Aug 19
Great customer service, professional and polite, great results and fast turnaround!
Theticus _
00:08 30 Jul 19
Great service for Apple repair
Michael Bischa
03:27 31 May 19
Great service, let us know our options up front, found the solution and ordered parts in and completed the job in just 48 hours to get am important computer back up running. They are great!
Rob & Rebecca Ketelaars
19:43 20 May 19
Friendly staff. Fast service. Replaced the battery in my iPhone 6 in about 1.5 hours while I was shopping at Orion just across the road. Perfect.
Valentin Despa
08:33 09 May 19
Very professional, friendly and fast. I liked a lot that you get text messages with the status of your job. Thank you guys!
Anthony
05:33 05 Feb 19
Staff was very friendly and professional, only took 2 business days for my keyboard to be repaired; excellent service and absolutely no hassle.
Kazi Nazmul Haque Shezan
00:46 01 Dec 18
Just awesome experience. My apple watch 4 was not charging. I got a new apple watch in 3 days. They are very fast at resolving problem. The staffs are very helpfull
Helena Stibbard
23:12 11 Sep 18
Exceptional service; Explained everything and was very helpful with advice for backing up files; MacBook Pro full keyboard replacement done in 2 days; very little downtime which was really appreciated. Highly Recommended
Tom Parke
11:41 05 Sep 18
This is an easy five stars. I came into the store, explained my issue (I needed to have the entire screen of my laptop replaced). They told me they'd need to order in some parts, and the entire repair was finished in less than 24 hours. Superb team.
Sam D
22:38 19 Apr 18
I took my MacBook Pro in to get the screen diagnosed and replaced through apple warrenty, it was completed very quickly and estorm did an excellent job. It was so much easier going to estorm over an apple shop, no wait time, plenty of appointment times and no pushing your way through noisy crowds. Will definitely be going back to them for any issues. Thanks!
James C
02:50 22 Mar 18
Liam Sorensen
21:18 31 Jan 18
Excellent service and very professional atmosphere. I had a couple of apple devices that needed fixing and to my surprise were covered under warranty and were replaced free of charge!! The team there are an awesome crew very welcoming and very understanding.Look forward to requiring your service again.
Dallas Rankin
01:20 17 Oct 17
Wade
04:43 16 Oct 17
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