5 Best Ways to Secure Your Android Phone

Though many Android users may believe their phones are secure, this doesn’t mean that they are not prone to attacks. Android smartphones are actually under continuous attacks, and the older versions are far more vulnerable than new ones.

So, how do you protect your device from these attacks?

Here are some of the best ways to keep your Android smartphone safe. Most of these tips are simple. After all, security isn’t just about fancy complicated security tricks; it’s about creating continuous habits using the best-practices to keep your online security in tact.

1. Use Two-Factor Authentication

One of the best ways to secure your Android smartphone is by using Google’s two-factor authentication system.

Here is how you go about it:

1. Log in to your Google account and look for the two-step verification settings.
2. From the menu, tap on two-step verification.
3. You will be prompted to enter a phone number where you will receive a verification code.
4. You will be asked whether to receive the code via call or text.
5. Enter the verification code sent to the inbox you will be prompted to.
6. Once done, you will be asked whether to remember the device or computer you are using. This way, you will have activated the two-step verification tool.

2. Ensure Your Smartphone Is Locked

This is a simple trick, yet people tend to look down upon it. A simple pattern or password goes a long way in securing critical data in case you lose your phone. The recent versions of Android phones have fingerprint scanners and would have a significant advantage if you used it.

3. Only Use Apps from Google Play

A majority of Android malware is from untrusted third-party sources. So it would be important that you install apps from the Google Play Store only.

Google tries to make your smartphone safer using Google Play Protect, which scans your smartphone for malware whenever you install an app from the Play Store. Ensure that this option is always on in your device by heading to Settings > Security > Play Protect. By clicking “scan device for security threats,” you will have allowed Play Protect to perform a full scan on your device and ensure you are safe from malware.

4. Turn off Connections When Not Using Them

If you are not using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, then turn them off. Some attackers may use these connections to access your device. Also, minimize the times you are using public Wi-Fi. Public Wi-Fi can be accessed by anyone and could be used by hackers to get into your phone.

5. Use Antivirus Software

In as much as Play Protect does an excellent job of protecting your phone from malware, it is only safer if you could add more safety by using antivirus software. There are plenty of options for Android-run devices.

Conclusion

With all the attacks your Android smartphone could be prone to, it is only advisable that you stay safer using the above methods. They might not be completely guaranteed, but you will be more secure than you are now.

About the Author

Sophie is a marketing specialist at Security Gladiators. A writer by day and a reader by night, she is specialized in tech and cybersecurity. When she is not behind the screen, Sophie can be found playing with her dog.