Cybercriminals are constantly searching for vulnerabilities in smartphones to launch secret attacks. To combat this threat, the National Security Agency (NSA) has shared seven crucial steps for iPhone and Android users to safeguard their devices and personal data. Let’s take a look at these 7 steps that will protect your smartphone from hacks.

Keep software and apps updated on your smartphone

Updating your smartphone’s software and apps is one of the most effective measures to enhance device security. Cybercriminals exploit loopholes in existing software to break into phones. Regular updates help eliminate these vulnerabilities, making it harder for hackers to access your data.

Frequent updates can prevent various cyber threats, including spying on calls, texts, and data. They also offer protection against spear-phishing attacks, where targeted fraudulent emails are sent to steal sensitive information like login credentials. Additionally, updates can block zero-click exploits, where spyware is downloaded onto smartphones without the user clicking on any links.

Install apps from official stores only

To minimize the risk of malware, only install apps from official stores like Google Play and the App Store. Unofficial app stores such as Aptoide, SlideMe, ACMarket, and Amazon Appstore often host fake versions of legitimate apps that can give hackers full access to your device.

By ensuring that apps are downloaded from verified sources, users can prevent spear-phishing, unauthorized audio, video, call, and data collection, and unauthorized access to the device’s geolocation. Google reported barring nearly 2.3 million apps from its Play Store in the past year alone due to confirmed malware and severe policy violations.

Disable WiFi and Bluetooth in public places

Avoid connecting to public WiFi networks to protect your smartphone from cyber threats. If you must use public WiFi, disable Bluetooth when not in use. Public networks are prone to cyberattacks, such as the Key Reinstallation Attack (KRACK), where encryption keys are manipulated to steal data.

Leaving Bluetooth on can also expose your device to BlueBorne attacks, enabling hackers to control your smartphone without user interaction. Such attacks can lead to cyber espionage, data theft, or ransomware attacks. Public WiFi networks often lack the security measures found in home networks, making smartphones vulnerable to identity theft and financial account breaches.

Hackers may set up networks with names similar to legitimate ones, like ‘Cafe01’ instead of ‘Cafe1’, to trick users into connecting. Once connected, they can steal data or install malware to maintain access to your device even after disconnecting from the network.

Use encrypted communication apps

Encrypted voice, text, and data apps convert communication into code, making it difficult for hackers to access personal information. Popular encryption apps like WhatsApp and Telegram provide end-to-end encryption, ensuring that calls, messages, and data remain private.

Despite their security features, encrypted apps are not entirely immune to attacks. For instance, WhatsApp was vulnerable to zero-click exploits in 2019, where a missed call could allow hackers to install malware. Zero-click attacks are particularly dangerous because they do not require users to click on malicious links or download compromised files.

Avoid clicking on unknown links or attachments

The NSA advises against opening unknown email attachments and links, as they can contain malicious content. Hackers can use keylogging or Trojan malware to access personal information in real-time, including credit card details and social security information.

Keylogging allows hackers to monitor your activities, while Trojan malware invisibly extracts important data. Falling for phishing attempts, which often mimic legitimate entities, can lead to account compromise and identity theft.

Reboot your smartphone weekly

Restarting your smartphone once a week can help prevent zero-click exploits and spear-phishing attacks. Rebooting the system resets open web pages and apps, logging out of bank accounts and removing hackers’ ability to access sensitive information.

Although not foolproof, this practice makes it more challenging for cybercriminals to breach your phone’s defenses. A 2015 study found that nearly half of smartphone owners rarely or never turned off their devices, highlighting the importance of regular reboots.

Use a microphone-drowning case and cover the camera

To prevent eavesdropping, use a protective case that drowns out the microphone and blocks background audio. These cases have built-in microphone jamming systems that stop unwanted eavesdroppers from hearing your conversations.

Covering the front and rear cameras on smartphones is also essential. Hackers can remotely control your camera and save media if they gain access to your phone. Using a sticker, tape, or a built-in camera cover can protect you from being observed.

Signs your smartphone has been hacked

There are several indicators that your smartphone may have been compromised. If your camera light stays on or turns on unexpectedly, your battery drains quickly, the phone runs slow or gets hot, apps suddenly quit, or your phone turns off and back on by itself, these could be signs of a hack. Additionally, watch for unrecognized texts, data, or charges on your phone bill.

By following these seven steps, iPhone and Android users can significantly reduce the risk of cyberattacks and protect their personal information from hackers.