Know Your Options for Smartphone Security

UPDATED 01/27/20

By the very nature of how we use them, our smartphones become the repositories for a lot of important personal information. For instance, mine has names, addresses, phone numbers and even email addresses for nearly everyone I know stored in my contacts, not to mention all my photos, emails, and even access to various apps that store my unique user name and password.

As a result, it’s crucial to make sure we’re diligent about protecting our data to keep it from winding up in the wrong hands should a device become lost or stolen. What’s surprising is that with all the great security options available, research has shown that less than 30% of smartphone users are currently using a screen lock or other security features!

There’s no reason to run the risk. Smartphone security technology has evolved significantly over the past few years, so it’s easier than ever to effectively keep your information safe. The simplest thing to do is to set a passcode. By doing this, your phone is locked, and can only be opened up by entering the code you’ve selected. This prevents anyone who picks up your phone, by accident or otherwise, from using it. You’re able to set this up by going to the phone’s Settings menu. Most phones will provide an option to choose either a numeric code, or a distinctive “swipe” pattern that you trace on the screen using your finger.

Many phones also offer fingerprint recognition, allowing you to unlock your phone just by holding your finger over the device’s Home button or separate fingerprint sensor. You store your fingerprint into the phone’s memory by following a series of steps, which will vary slightly between manufacturers. For an added measure of security, you’ll also often have the option to require a numeric PIN code along with your fingerprint access.

Newer phones have even expanded their security options. Apple introduced Face ID, similar to facial recognition on the Samsung Galaxy S10+, Galaxy S10 and Galaxy Note10. This feature uses the device’s front facing camera to “map” your face, so that your phone will only unlock if it recognizes you. The Samsung models also offer “retinal” (eye) scanning software, which again uses the phone’s camera to map your unique features. On the Galaxy S10+ and Galaxy S10, this can even be combined with facial recognition to provide truly thorough security.

There are so many effective ways to enhance your smartphone security, and they’re so easy to activate, that you’re certain to find one that’s perfect for you. Take the worry out of setting your phone down by going to your Settings menu! With just a few simple steps, you’ll be assured that all of that precious information belongs to you alone–just the way it’s supposed to.