11 Essential Tips I Use to Keep My Android Phone Secure

Let’s face it: our phones know more about us than we sometimes realize – storing everything from personal messages to bank details. That’s why keeping my Android phone safe is a priority for me.

1

Avoid connecting to Unsecured Networks

While public Wi-Fi networks, such as those in coffee shops or airports, are generally free and convenient, they often lack encryption, making it easier for hackers to intercept data.

That’s why I always avoid using them as much as possible. If I need internet access on the go, I prefer to use mobile data, even if I have to pay for it.

However, for the times when I absolutely must use public Wi-FiI rely on a VPN to encrypt my connection. Add an extra layer of security by masking my IP address and encrypting my data, thus reducing risk.

2

Regularly Review and Manage App Permissions

When setting up apps and games for the first time, sometimes I hastily grant app permissions without thinking too much.

With so many apps installed on my phone, it’s easy to forget what access I’ve given. So, I make a point to periodically review app permissions.

For example, regularly review which apps have access to my location, camera, or microphone. Keeping a close eye on permissions prevents unwanted apps from collecting more data than they should and helps protect my privacy.

3

Keep Find My Device Enabled

Find my Device is one of the most important functions in Android, since it allows me to track its location on a map and ring to find it easily.

In the unfortunate event that my phone is stolen, I can also remotely lock and wipe my data to ensure my personal information remains safe and secure.

Although my phone is protected by a strong passcode lock screen, Find My Device gives me the necessary peace of mind that my data is safe no matter what happens to my device.

4

Enable theft detection lock and offline lock

One of my biggest fears while traveling to new cities or unfamiliar neighborhoods is having my phone stolen. Fortunately, Google Theft Detection Blocker helps ease this concern.

When activated, it uses sensors and AI to detect movements that suggest someone might take my phone and run away. If you feel such activity, close the device immediately.

Along with this, I also keep “Locking Offline” enabled. It detects signs like a prolonged disconnection from the Internet or repeated failed attempts to unlock my phone. If it notices any of these unusual patterns, it automatically locks my device to protect data.

5

Turn off access to quick settings on the lock screen

Another thing I do to keep my phone secure is to disable access to quick settings on the lock screen. By doing this, I ensure that no one can tamper with essential functions, such as putting my phone on airplane mode or turning off mobile data and location services, even if they get into my device.

This is especially important in case I accidentally misplace my phone, and it falls into the wrong hands.

6

Always use Safe Browsing Mode

In my downtime, I often spend time reading articles and surfing the web in general my favorite browser – Google Chrome.

To protect my Android phone from malicious websites and downloads, I always enable Safe Browsing mode. This feature protects me from phishing attempts and malicious websites that could compromise my device.

By default, Chrome’s Safe Browsing feature is set to Standard protection. However, I prefer to keep it Enhanced protection for maximum protection.

7

Avoid suspicious links and attachments

This simple habit of not clicking on suspicious links and opening random attachments has saved me from potentially harmful situations countless times.

Whether it’s in an email, a text message, or even a social media post, I’m always careful before clicking on something I’m not familiar with. I pay close attention to sender details and look for red flags, such as misspelled words or suspicious URLs. These errors often signal phishing attempts or scams.

As they say, if something seems too good to be true, it usually is. That’s why I still have it avoid suspicious attachments and links unless I am absolutely sure of the source.

8

Regularly scan your phone for malware

Even if I’m careful about what I download, there’s always the risk that something could slip up. That’s why I regularly scan my Android phone, just like my PC.

These scans help detect hidden threats or apps that might not be reported immediately. This proactive approach not only helps me catch potential problems early, but also keeps my phone running smoothly and safely.

9

NFC usage security with device unlock requirements

NFC has brought a lot of convenience to my daily life by allowing me to make payments quickly, even without unlocking my phone. However, to ensure my safety, I keep the Requires device unlock for NFC option enabled on my android phone.

This ensures that no one can access my NFC functions without me unlocking the device first.

10

Download Apps only from the Play Store and use Google Play Protect

Unlike the iPhone, Android makes it easy to sideload apps. While it is tempting to try applications from third-party sources, the risk is not worth it. Instead, we prefer to stick to the Play Store, where Google carefully checks all applications for security and compliance.

Also, I also keep Google Play Protect enabled on my phone. This security feature regularly scans my installed apps and devices for any malicious behavior. If you detect any security risks, notify me promptly so that I can take action.

11

Keep Your Device Software Updated

Android updates, both system updates and security patches, often include critical fixes for vulnerabilities that could be exploited by hackers or malware.

So whenever I get a notification about a new software update, I prioritize installing it as soon as possible.

This also applies to app updates. I activated it Automatic updates for apps on my Androidso I can take advantage of bug fixes, performance improvements, and security patches without having to think about it. This habit of keeping my apps and devices up to date goes a long way to maintaining security.

All in all, keeping my Android phone safe is a combination of careful practices and taking advantage of built-in features. From enabling Safe Browsing Mode and sticking to trusted app sources to keeping my software up-to-date, every small step contributes to protecting my device from potential threats.