Having your phone hacked has to be one of the top worst things that can happen when you own an iPhone, if not the absolute worst. More than just an invasion of privacy, a hacking puts your financial information at risk, as well as personal info like your social security number, driver’s license number, and other secure data that’s out there in the world.
The best solution for hacking is actually precautionary measures that put up a good offense against potential hackers. If you’re afraid of hackers, use these five precautionary measures to secure your device.
Set Up Two-Factor Authentication
Setting up two-factor authentication, or 2FA, requires anyone trying to access specific websites and apps that you use to input both a password and an additional code that is sent to your phone or email address. This cuts down on the risk that a stranger can access sensitive websites and gather your data. Set up 2FA by going to Settings > Select Your Name > Select Sign-In & Security or Password & Security > Tap on Turn on Two-Factor Authentication.
Use an iPhone Screen Protector
Many hackers operate swiftly after seeing you in a public space and figuring out your passwords — just from observing you typing them into your phone! They can then clandestinely steal your phone and already have what they need to wreak havoc on your life. Using an iPhone screen protector can create more privacy for you when you’re in public.
Disable Location Services
Although some apps require Location Services to be turned on so that they can deliver the services you need, it’s not necessary for all of your apps to know your location. Limit the data your phone collects by going to the Privacy section in Settings and only turning on Location Services for the apps that need it - and only allowing those apps access to your location when you’re using them.
Turn Off AutoFill
It’s very convenient for your iPhone to remember your info, such as your address and credit card information, and to fill them in when you’re filling out a document. But if a hacker gets your phone, they, too, will be able to get this info in a snap. Turn off Autofill by going to Settings > Safari > Autofill and disabling it.
Use a Password Manager
Even though hackers have gotten so much more sophisticated over the years, they can still break into your phone by figuring out your passwords if you’re continuing to use your birthday or your mother’s name and your birthday (or some combination of obvious words). By simply switching to a password manager, you no longer have to create complex passwords for every site and app or remember them — your manager will do that for you. In return, you’ll benefit from a much safer and more secure device.
