Smartphones contain all kinds of data that attackers covet, and most people carry their smartphones with them all the time. So, protect yourself – protect your smartphone against viruses, trojan-horse programs, unauthorized access and overly curious apps. Here you find four important tips to protect your smartphone.
1. Updating your software and using protection software
Always keep your smartphone's software up to date. In addition to offering new functions, updates address current security issues and thus guard against attacks.
For added protection, install security software. Such software is available from a number of different providers. Deutsche Telekom, for example, offers a security solution that stops threats while they are still in Deutsche Telekom's mobile network.
2. Locking the touch screen
Activate auto-locking of the touch screen via a passcode, a PIN, a pattern, or a fingerprint on your smartphone. Always enter your PIN or pattern in such a way that nobody can see what you are typing.
3. Restricting and disabling location services
When location services are active, your smartphone "knows" your location and forward it to apps, subject to your consent. While location services can make sense with some apps – such as navigation apps – they certainly should not be used with all apps. Check which apps are allowed to use location services switch them off completely.
Attention: Due to the high number of different manufacturers, the instructions for Android devices may differ from the actual settings of your mobile device.
Tap „Location“. Now you can disable location services for selected apps.
If this option is not available on your device, do as follows:
1. Select “Apps” in the Settings.
2. Go to “App Permissions” or “Permissions”. It might be necessary to click on the menu in the top-right corner.
3. Select “Location”.
4. Now you can select and unselect certain apps.
By the way
Use the "Find my iPhone" (iPhone) and "Find My Mobile" (Android) functions to locate your smartphone when you have lost it. To do this, you must activate location services. Be sure to disable any location services that you do not explicitly need.
Only switch on Wi-Fi and Bluetooth manually only if necessary
Disable wireless connections such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi when you do not need them. This lowers your device's vulnerability to cyber-attacks.
PUBLIC HOTSPOTS: Be cautious in public hotspots. Where possible, use such hotspots only via secure connections (https). In Deutsche Telekom's hotspots, use the available VPN (German) if possible.
