Lock Down Your Smartphone's Security
Tracking details and privacy concerns: GPS, Wi-Fi, and various other technologies
In today's digital world, it's commonplace to keep GPS, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth activated on our smartphones for convenience. However, the Stiftung Warentest urges us to reconsider, as it can pose significant privacy and security threats. Here's a rundown on why and how you should protect yourself.
Ditch the Constant Connections
By turning off GPS, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth when they're not needed, you can:
- Preserve your privacy: Less data is collected, as apps and providers won't have access to your movement data or create detailed movement profiles.
- Boost your battery life: When your battery hits rock bottom, disabling unnecessary connections can buy you precious extra minutes.
The smartphone becomes less of a target for cybercriminals if these connections are disabled and vaccinated against potential threats.
Wi-Fi, GPS, and Bluetooth: Friends or Foes?
Wi-Fi
When "Precise Location" is enabled, your smartphone collects more than just GPS data. It also gathers information on nearby Wi-Fi networks, cell towers, and data from smartphone sensors like accelerometers and gyroscopes. Thankfully, both Android and iOS offer the option to disable "Precise Location."
Bluetooth
Unused Bluetooth can serve as an entry point for cybercriminals, with security studies showing vulnerabilities in Bluetooth that could potentially enable attackers to gain control of your smartphone. So, if you're not using headphones or a smart tracker, it's wise to switch off Bluetooth to secure your device.
Manage Your Mobile Secrets on Android and iOS
Turning off unwanted connections is straightforward on Android devices: a swipe down from the top of the screen brings up the quick settings, where you can easily disable GPS, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth.
On the iPhone, you'll need to venture deeper into the settings, but the and smart devices still offer easy access to most settings via the quick settings menu, accessible by swiping down. However, these temporary settings will re-enable after a time. To truly turn them off, you'll need to dig deeper.
To minimize the risk of sensitive information falling into the wrong hands, be discerning when installing apps. Even those not currently in use may collect data in the background without your knowledge. Opt for apps that are truly needed and reputable, as advised by data protection commissioners.
Set Limits on App Permissions
When installing an app, consider your reasons for granting it access to your calendar, contacts, camera, photos, videos, physical activity, or location carefully. Only provide these permissions if they are absolutely essential for the app to function properly.
By taking a proactive approach to securing our smartphones, we can minimize the privacy and security risks associated with keeping GPS, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth always on. To ensure a safe digital life, always remember that every click matters.
In the realm of personal-finance and lifestyle, securing your smartphone is essential to protect your digital privacy and minimizing data collection, which could potentially compromise your privacy. By disabling GPS, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth when they're not needed, you're not only preserving your battery life but also boosting your smartphone's security against potential cyber threats. Additionally, with increasing reliance on technology, it's crucial to be discerning when installing apps, managing app permissions, and opting for reputable apps to prevent sensitive information from leaking.
