Top 10 Ways To Protect Your Phone From Hackers.

With all the reports about malware attacks and data breaches, no one can blame you for wanting to protect your cell phone from hackers.

You can take steps to secure your phone, improve your password smarts, and protect your data. Nothing is fool-proof, but a little bit of know-how will improve your chances of hack-proofing your phone.

• Keep your operating system up-to-date.

As soon as Apple or Android tells you an update is ready, download and install it. Many hackers take advantage of vulnerabilities in out-of-date operating systems. Updates patch these holes and make your phone more secure.

• Install security software on your Android phone.

Don't download just any app. Read recommendations from trustworthy sources like Consumer Reports.

If you want free, reliable protection, go with Avast, which provides security and malware protection. If you're willing to pay extra for heavy-duty protection, go for McAfee or Norton.

For the most part, the iOS software is difficult to hack. However, some versions might have vulnerabilities. The best you can do is update your software as soon as new versions are released and be careful which apps you can install.

Password-protect your security software, if possible.

• Set a passcode.

Pick something that's complex yet easy to remember. Avoid birthdays, pets' names, bank PINs, or part of your phone number. Follow the instructions at Apple or Android support to set yours up.

• To set a passcode for your iPhone, choose a code that consists of six digits, four digits, or an alphanumeric code you set yourself.
• For an Android phone, start at the menu button from the home screen. Tap “Settings,” then “Security,” and then “Screen Lock.”
• The actual words might be different depending on your phone's brand name.
• Choose between Pattern Unlock, a personal PIN, or an alphanumeric password. After that, choose how long you want your phone to wait before locking.
• Vet apps before installing them.

Download apps only from a reputable seller or site, such as Apple's App Store or iTunes. Be very careful if you use an Android phone.

Google doesn't vet its apps as carefully as Apple. Read reviews from Consumer Reports, Wired, or CNET before downloading any third-party apps.

• Memorize how to control your phone remotely.

Settings or apps allow you to remotely lock and erase your phone if it's stolen. If you have a newer phone, you don't need to download anything. Control your iPhone through “Find My Phone” in iCloud.

Remotely secure your Android phone through your Google account.

• If you have an older iPhone, get the Find My iPhone app from iTunes.
• Download Find My Phone for older Android models.
• Both apps are free.
• Use caution with unsecured WiFi connections.

Unsecured connections don't have lock icons near their listings.

Avoid them, if you can, and use your phone's secure mobile connection. Otherwise, install a virtual private network (VPN), which directs your traffic through encrypted connections. Even if you're using a VPN, never access your bank account or vital records on an unsecured connection.

Secured connections have a lock icon, usually located across from the name of the network.

• Disable WiFi, Bluetooth and GPS when you're not using them.

They allow potential hackers to locate your phone with a simple scan.

Follow the instructions in your user's manual or support section of the phone manufacturer's website.

These settings are usually defaulted to the “on” mode on newer phones.

• Avoid easy unlocking methods.

Don't be tricked by fingerprint- or facial recognition.

Hackers can copy your fingerprints from drinking glasses or use photographs of you.

Forget about setting your phone to automatically unlock when you're at home or when it's near other smart devices.

If someone breaks into your home or gets a hold of your smart watch, your phone will be vulnerable.

“These are some ways to protect your device from being hacked..!!”

Thanks for reading..!!