People use open and free WiFi networks for confidential work, such as banking. This can be really dangerous. If you’re looking for tips to protect Android from hacking, then continue reading. I’ll tell you different ways that you can use in order to tighten your security and minimize hacking, specially through free WiFi and Bluetooth.
1. Avoid Using Free Public WiFi Networks
This might be really difficult for some of you out there because everyone loves free WiFi. However, using free WiFi for doing confidential stuff on your phone can be dangerous. You should only use public WiFi when there’s an important need and that too only for basic things. Be careful not to open up your bank accounts and emails when using free WiFi.
2. Keep Your Bluetooth Off
Android hacking can also be done through Bluetooth. Many users keep their Bluetooth on all the time even when they don’t use it. It would be best to turn off Bluetooth when you’re not using it.
3. Don’t Save Passwords
Saving passwords in your phone’s web browser can make life easier as you can automatically log in to your accounts without entering passwords. While this can save some time, it would be best to avoid saving passwords, specially for your confidential email accounts and for online banking services.
4. Use A Security Lock
Android has some great built-in lock screen options and many users still don’t take advantage of them. If you don’t have a security lock enabled, the first thing you should do is enable it. You can choose from various options such as password, PIN and pattern. Make sure that you keep your device locked all the time. Also, make sure that your passwords are not simple or easy for hackers to guess.
5. Lock Your Apps
It might be impossible for many users to logout every time they exit an app. For example, you probably won’t want to logout from your email app every time you exit it. If you have a lot of apps that you’re constantly logged into, then it would be best if you lock those apps. There are several third party apps that can lock your apps using a password. One of these apps is AppLock.
6. App Permissions
Not all third party apps available on the Google Play Store are safe and if you’re not careful, you can get your phone hacked through one of these third party apps. Before installing any app, make sure that you read the permissions of the app. If the app is asking for too many permissions that it doesn’t need, then it would be better not to install the app. You should also check your existing apps for unusual permissions. Feel free to read my detailed guide on protecting your Android phone’s privacy.
7. Read User Reviews Before Installing Apps
Many users ignore reviews and comments before installing apps from the Google Play Store. You should make a habit of reading reviews before installing apps. This way, you’ll find out if others are having a problem with the app or if the app hacked their Android device.
8. Keep Your Phone Backed Up
Having a backup is necessary for Android devices these days. You should keep a complete backup of your Android device either online or on your PC. Nandroid backups are perfect if you have a rooted Android smartphone. You can also read our list of the best Android backup apps.
9. Avoid Keeping Confidential Files On Your Phone
You should try to avoid keeping confidential documents and other important files on your phone’s SD card. If you do keep such files, then make sure you lock the files and folders. One popular app for locking files is Folder Lock.
10. Use A VPN
VPN is a great option not only to access blocked websites, but also to protect you while you’re using WiFi. There are several VPN apps available on the Google Play Store, such as Hideman VPN and SuperVPN. Whenever you’re using the internet on your Android phone, make a habit of using a VPN.
11. Use An Antivirus Or Security App
Using security and antivirus apps can also protect your Android phone from getting hacked. There are several great antivirus apps available on the Google Play Store. Feel free to check out our list of the best antivirus apps for Android.
12. Delete Your Internet History
Delete your internet history and clear cookies and cache regularly.
Conclusion
Hacking has become an issue not just for computers, but also for Android smartphones and tablets. A hacker can easily get access to your email, social media and bank accounts. Aside from that, your location and other private information can be accessed. If you want to keep your Android phone protected from Bluetooth and free WiFi attacks, then you’ll need to take certain precautions. If you follow all the tips mentioned above, then I believe your phone will be safe and you won’t lose your private information. If you have any questions, feel free to shoot them in the comments section below.
