Smart Phone Privacy & Security Tips

1. Lock Screen Security: Set up a strong PIN, password, or biometric authentication to secure your device.

2. Biometric Authentication: Enable biometric options like fingerprint or facial recognition for an added layer of security.

3. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Enable 2FA for your accounts to add an extra layer of security beyond just passwords.

4. Location Services: Turn off location services for apps that don’t require it.

5. Encrypt Device: Enable device encryption to protect your data in case your phone falls into the wrong hands.

6. Check App Permissions: Some apps may request microphone permissions and speech recognition, which potentially record voice or audio during calls. To prevent unauthorized voice recording, review and manage app permissions on your device to restrict unnecessary access to your data. Disable microphone access for apps that don’t require it. If you suspect a specific app is recording calls without your consent, consider uninstalling it or reporting the issue to the app store.

7. Review App Settings: Check the settings within individual apps. Some may have specific options related to call recording or microphone usage. Disable apps for tracking your activity under privacy & security section of your smart phone.

8. Use Trusted and Updated Apps: Download apps only from official app stores to reduce the risk of malicious software that might compromise your privacy. Keep your operating system and apps up-to-date to patch vulnerabilities and enhance security. Developers often release updates to address security concerns and improve user privacy. Set UPI apps to update automatically or regularly check for updates to ensure you have the latest security patches.

9. Use of Secure and Trusted Network: Always use secure and trusted network for internet surfing and online transactions. Never use open source network, for secure transactions.

10. Stay Informed: Stay informed about privacy policies and security features of the apps you use. Sometimes, app updates may introduce new privacy controls.

Safe Online Browsing

• Use strong, unique passwords for each online account.
• Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible.
• Update your passwords, if you feel that it is compromise or if it found into data breach.
• Be cautious of phishing emails and never click on suspicious links.
• Keep your devices and antivirus software up to date.
• Use a secure Wi-Fi connection, and avoid public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions.
• Monitor your bank accounts regularly for any unauthorized transactions.
• Install only reliable softwares on your devices.
• Secure your mobile devices with passwords or biometric authentication.
• Be wary of sharing personal information online or over the phone.
• Check the authenticity of websites before entering sensitive data. Always use secure site started with “https://” and ‘incognito mode’ to open netbanking sites.
• Keep your operating system, browser, and apps updated for security patches.
• Use a firewall to protect your home network.
• Avoid downloading apps or software from untrusted sources.
• Use a virtual private network (VPN) for added privacy online.
• Be cautious when accessing banking services on public computers.
• Regularly back up important data to protect against ransomware attacks.
• Educate yourself on the latest cybersecurity threats and scams.
• Set up account alerts to be notified of any suspicious activities.
• Consider using a password manager to securely store and manage your passwords.