We spend a lot of time on our smartphones sending text messages, scrolling through social media, checking emails, catching up on the latest news, etc. Typically, we only turn off our devices when we encounter a problem or a bug, or when the battery runs out (although unintentionally).
But the National Security Agency recommends powering your smartphone on and off weekly to protect against cyberattacks, and the intelligence agency also lists some general best practices for mobile devices that I share with you from time to time.
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Why you should reboot your phone every week, according to the NSA
of National Security Agency Recommendation Reboot your phone weekly to protect against zero-click attacks, which attackers use to eavesdrop on your phone and collect data. While rebooting won't completely thwart advanced attacks, many modern cyber attacks require the exploitation of multiple vulnerabilities in succession. Rebooting your phone forces an attacker to start over, potentially thwarting their attack's progress.
How rebooting your phone keeps you safe
Restarting your phone not only helps you avoid cyber attacks, but it also makes your phone run smoother. Manufacturers recommend rebooting your phone regularly to prevent slowdowns and freezing.
Even if only for a short time, a quick reboot can clear background apps, fix overheating, resolve memory issues, improve call signal, and most importantly, make your device feel new, perform better, and make your battery last longer. This applies to both Android phones and iPhones.
Restrict phone restart
But the NSA warns that turning your phone off and back on only rarely prevents these attacks.
“Threats to mobile devices are more pervasive and increasing in scope and complexity,” the NSA said, warning that some smartphone features “provide convenience and functionality but at the expense of security.”
People with iPhones (Kurt “Cyberguy” Knutson)
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NSA shares more mobile security tips
The NSA also recommends disabling Bluetooth when not in use. Update your phone Update your operating system and apps to the latest versions as soon as updates are available, and disable location services when you don't need them, the NSA further warns. Do not open email attachments or links.
Spy agencies specifically ask you not to connect Public Wi-Fi networksIt advises disabling Wi-Fi when not in use and deleting unused Wi-Fi networks, which is solid advice given how often cybercriminals use Wi-Fi to attack users. Vulnerabilities on Windows devices This allows bad actors to hack your PC simply by connecting to the same Wi-Fi network as you.
The NSA also recommends using a strong lock screen. PINs and passwordsAs long as your phone is set to automatically erase after 10 incorrect attempts and automatically lock after five minutes of inactivity, he advises setting a PIN of at least six digits.
Setting strong passwords for every app and piece of software you use and remembering them can be a pain. I personally password manager You can also use it to generate and manage your passwords.
Smartphone on the desk (Kurt “Cyberguy” Knutson)
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4 extra ways to keep your phone safe
While the tips above are extremely helpful, below are some additional security measures you can consider following:
1) Deploy powerful antivirus software: The best way to protect yourself from clicking on malicious links that could install malware that could access your personal information is to install antivirus protection on all your devices, which will also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams. We've handpicked the winners of the best antivirus protection of 2024 for Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.
2) Use a VPN: To protect you from being tracked and to identify your potential location on websites you visit, consider using a VPN. Many sites can read your IP address and, depending on your privacy settings, may be able to see the city you're communicating from. A VPN disguise your IP address to show a different location. For the best VPN software, check out my expert reviews of the best VPNs for browsing the web privately on your phone. Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.
3) Enable 2-factor authentication: Enable Two-factor certification Whenever possible, they will require a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your mobile phone, in addition to your password, providing an extra layer of security.
4) Change your password. Simply changing a stolen password can make it useless to a thief. Choose a strong password that you don't use anywhere else.
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Important points about the cart
While the NSA's advice is not a panacea for security issues, I completely agree with the suggestion to power your devices on and off regularly. It only takes a minute or two per week and is a great habit to develop. It can even become a daily routine, like a bedtime routine. It's also important to keep your phone's software and apps up to date and avoid clicking on unknown links and attachments.
How often do you reboot your device? Have you noticed any benefits from doing so? Cyberguy.com/Contact Us.
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