How to Update Your Phone's Security Settings

Edited 2 weeks ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team

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Your smartphone contains a lot of private and sensitive information, so it's important to keep it secure. The best way to do this is to update your phone's security settings regularly. This guide will walk you through the steps to update your phone's security settings for both Android and iOS devices.

Why update your security settings?

Before we move on to the steps, let's discuss why it's important to update your security settings:

• Malware protection: New malware appears all the time, and updating your security settings can help protect your phone from these threats.
• Data privacy: By keeping security settings up to date, you can ensure that your personal information, such as your photos, contacts, and messages, stay private.
• Device performance: Security updates can also improve the overall performance and stability of your device.

Updating security settings on Android

Android devices can vary widely depending on the manufacturer, but the steps to update security settings are generally the same. Here's how you can update security settings on most Android devices:

Update your system software

1. Open the Settings app on your Android device.
2. Scroll down and tap System (or About phone).
3. Tap System update (or Software update).
4. Your phone will check for updates. If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to download and install it.

Enable Google Play Protect

Google Play Protect helps keep your device safe by regularly scanning it for potentially harmful apps. Here's how to enable it:

1. Open the Google Play Store app.
2. Tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the top-left corner.
3. Tap Play Protect.
4. Tap the Settings icon (gear) in the top right corner.
5. Make sure that Scan apps with Play Protect and Improve harmful app detection are both enabled.

Set up a screen lock

The easiest way to secure your device is to set up a screen lock. Follow these steps:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Scroll down and tap Security.
3. Tap Screen lock.
4. Select the type of lock you want to use (pattern, PIN, password or biometrics).
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to set your chosen lock type.

Updating security settings on iOS (iPhone)

Apple frequently releases updates to improve the security and performance of the iPhone. Here's how you can update the security settings on your iOS device:

Update your iOS software

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Tap General.
3. Tap Software update.
4. If an update is available, tap Download and Install.

Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)

Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your Apple ID. Here's how to enable it:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. At the top, tap your Apple ID (your name).
3. Tap Password & Security.
4. Tap Two-Factor Authentication and follow the on-screen instructions to set it up.

Set a strong passcode

Setting a strong passcode is important to keep your iPhone secure. Here's how to do it:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap Face ID & Passcode (or Touch ID & Passcode for older models).
3. Enter your current passcode.
4. Tap Change passcode.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to set a new, stronger passcode.

General safety tips

Whether you're using an Android or iOS device, there are some general security tips you should follow to keep your phone safe:

Use a password manager

A password manager can help you create and store strong, unique passwords for all your accounts. This reduces the risk of password reuse and makes it easier to manage your login credentials. There are several reputable password managers available, such as LastPass, 1Password, and Dashlane.

Enable app permissions carefully

When apps ask for permissions during installation, it's important to read them carefully. Only grant permissions that are necessary for the app to work. For example, a flashlight app shouldn't need access to your contacts or location.

Back up your data regularly

Backing up your data ensures that you don't lose important information in case something goes wrong. Both Android and iOS devices have built-in backup options. For Android, you can use Google Drive, and for iOS, you can use iCloud.

Be careful with public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi networks are less secure than private networks. Avoid accessing sensitive information such as banking apps when connected to public Wi-Fi. If you must use public Wi-Fi, consider using a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your internet traffic.

Conclusion

Keeping your phone secure is an ongoing process that involves regularly updating your security settings and following best practices. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can greatly reduce the risk of your personal information being compromised. Be vigilant and make sure to keep both your system software and individual app permissions up to date.

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