The digital era is well underway, and smartphones are the primary medium for spreading its influence. Apple is always creating new and evolved smartphones, and it's our most significant daily tool, with approximately 1.46 billion global iPhone users.
However, since we use our iPhones for almost everything, it also means an abundance of our personal data is stored on these devices. This includes information on payment details, medical data, and even your social security number. So, you can imagine the dangers of security breaches if hackers access that information.
The Three Reasons to Step Up Your Security
One of the best ways to protect your data is to remove personal information that's available online. However, you can't necessarily remove the data from your device when you're still using it. That's why we've looked at other security measures you can take. Let's examine why you should step up your iPhone security.
Reason #1: Unsecured Apps Places You in Danger
While most apps on the Apple Store are safe, some shady ones occasionally pop up. These apps' terms and conditions state they can share your information with their affiliates. Some are even worse, where just downloading it can give a hacker control of your iPhone. This sort of thing has become more prevalent as cybercriminals step up their game.
Reason #2: Public Wi-Fi Is An Open Doorway For Hackers
With Wi-Fi as the primary wireless way to connect to the internet, it's spreading rapidly. These days, shops, cafes, restaurants, educational centers, and other institutions offer free Wi-Fi to their customers. However, this free Wi-Fi network is public, the ideal medium for hackers to access your device.
Reason #3: Jailbreaking Creates Vulnerabilities
Jailbreaking is when you turn off the iPhone's built-in security measures to give yourself more control over your device. However, doing this then means you're exposed to possible scams or untrustworthy apps. Various vulnerabilities exist in a system operating without basic protection.
Common Security Vulnerabilities
As with any device that's part of the Internet of Things, you should know that iPhones have some security gaps. For example, many users become victims of SMS phishing attacks, after which they must reset their passwords as hackers steal information. Some of the most common security vulnerabilities are:
- Weak passwords you use regularly
- Unsecured public Wi-Fi networks
- Outdated software that can be hacked
- Untested new iPhone features
- Risky links and downloads
Security Beyond the Basics
There are various ways you can protect your iPhone from the above threats. If you don't know much about technology, simply ensure your basic iPhone security measures are working, and don't try to jailbreak the phone.
Protective measures like a reputable security app or installing a mobile VPN are options for tech-savvy users. Mobile VPNs conceal the data that travels from your device to the internet and back. It ensures all data is encrypted and stored under a different IP address.
Level Up Your iPhone Protection
Always stay abreast of the latest information on Apple devices. This ongoing awareness means you'll remain vigilant about new threats that appear. It'll also help identify possible security measures to combat these threats.
As you can now see, there are many reasons for you to step up your security game. Cyber threats are becoming more prevalent, and you're the only one protecting yourself.