Android is now the most popular mobile platform due to its flexible customization, which has led to the availability of thousands of apps.
As the use of mobile devices for activities such as banking and investment increases, so does the need to protect personal data. Here are eight simple ways to protect your data on an Android device.
Encrypt the Device
The major advantage of Android is the encryption of data in your device. All you need to do to decrypt the data is to enter your password (or PIN) each time you turn on the device. This option can be activated from the device’s security settings. If your device is stolen or lost, the encrypted data cannot be accessed without the correct password.
Use the Screen Lock
The most basic security measure on any Android device is the screen lock. Make sure your device is set to require a password, pattern, or PIN, in the same way as data encryption: you can activate this through the security settings. An advantage of screen lock is that it can be set to activate automatically, after a specific period of inactivity.
Contact Your IT Team before Using a Device at Work
Using your own device for work is a rising trend. However, it is essential to note that devices used for office work are more vulnerable to security threats, so users should be fully aware of the risks and their solutions. Seek advice from your company’s IT team for the best security settings for your device, before you try accessing or storing office data. A suitable antivirus should be used for protection from spyware, malware, and other threats.
Actuate Google’s Android Device Manager
The Android Device Manager helps to track your device via Google Maps, in case of theft or losing your mobile. Its additional features include ringing the device at full volume for five minutes, and even erasing all the data. This option can be enabled using the device administrator’s settings in the security settings menu.
Do Not Store Data in External Storage Devices
Never store sensitive information such as credit card details, passwords, and banking details in Secure Digital (SD) cards. They are far more vulnerable to theft and loss than the device itself. Moreover, there is no way to protect the data on these cards, so information can be easily retrieved and abused. Therefore, use your device’s internal storage for sensitive data.
Be Wary of Apps from Unknown Sources
Android apps can be acquired through Google Play, Amazon Appstore, or by downloading APK files from third party websites. However, by installing such third-party apps, you risk also installing malicious programs, such as spyware and other threats. Always verify app sites, and only download your apps from authorized sources.
Use App Locks
In addition to your screen lock, app locks can protect your data in individual apps. App locks are available from the Google Play Store. They function in the same way as a device lock, by asking you to enter a password or PIN to access locked applications.
Never Root Your Device
Rooting your device can facilitate the installation of incompatible apps. However, apps installed as root have unhindered access to your device’s files system. If you install a malicious app, the damage to your device may be irreversible. Never allow rooting for an app unless you are absolutely sure that it is not malicious.
By following the above-mentioned eight tips, you can protect the data stored in your Android device. All it really takes is a little time and effort to ensure your information stays safe, and to keep your data away from identity thieves, botnets, and all sorts of online threats.