Apple

Three Security Essentials For Your iPhone

Three Security Essentials For Your iPhone

Apple is known for exemplary privacy and cybersecurity practices compared to other smartphone manufacturers. For example, the Apple Store is generally more secure than Google Play. This is because Google allows more freedom for app developers.

In contrast, iOS app developers have strict privacy guidelines. Apple keeps a closer eye on its store. But that doesn’t guarantee 100% safety. The company is currently dealing with the Pegasus spyware incident – a professionally developed surveillance software with a zero-click exploit. Apple responded by rolling out Lockdown Mode to buff up iOS safety.

Either way, the celebratory cybersecurity improvements aren’t enough for around-the-clock protection. To strengthen your iPhone security, you can use additional software that will add an extra layer of protection. We’ve divided the list into three essential categories:

  • iOS cybersecurity apps;
  • Privacy protection software;
  • Anti-Theft.

Apple may release regular security updates, but it can’t prevent somebody from stealing your iPhone. Using additional software can minimize the risk of falling victim to any attack.

iOS cybersecurity apps

Cyber attacks against smartphones have increased over the last few years. Here are two ways to increase your iOS security against the most common threats:

Use antivirus software. It’s an essential part of any device’s security. iOS users often skip it because iOS is considered safe from malware. But cybercriminals continuously develop new viruses able to bypass standard system protections. Antivirus companies excel at identifying the latest threats and can patch vulnerabilities ahead of everyone else. Moreover, antiviruses evolved into much more than just trojan catchers. When picking an antivirus for iOS, look for these features:

  • Real-time malware threat protection that will keep you safe from harm 24/7;
  • Web protection to block access to infected websites even if you mistakenly try to access them;
  • Resource-friendly antivirus that will not slow your device down or drain excess battery power;
  • Additional features, such as a data-breach scanner and adblocker.

Get a password manager. Password management is still a sensitive issue. Avoid using obvious passwords to prevent unauthorized access to your accounts. A reliable iOS password manager will allow you to create and use multiple long, unique passwords. The average number of iPhone apps per device is 40, and it’s impossible to remember their passwords by heart. Instead, your password manager will store them in a secured encrypted vault. It will protect against credential stuffing or brute force hacks. Here’s what you should look for in a well-developed iOS password manager:

  • The latest encryption standard to guarantee your password vault is safe;
  • An autofill feature that will automatically input your password when required;
  • Cloud sync and cross-device compatibility;
  • A password generator and health checker;
  • A password leak scanner to alert you if you’re using a compromised password.

Privacy protection software

No matter Apple’s efforts, it’s up to you to protect your online privacy. If it’s not government surveillance or companies mining user data, then some script-kiddie will try to hack your local Starbucks’ Wi-Fi. Here’s what you can do:

VPN for Wi-Fi security. There are many reasons to avoid public Wi-Fi. But you can mitigate the risks via a Virtual Private Network. It will apply additional encryption to your online data flow and take control of online communication privacy. Even if you’re browsing on unsecured Wi-Fi, it becomes much harder to monitor your online activities. Here are some essential iOS VPN features:

  • Excellent connection speed;
  • The latest encryption standard to guarantee data safety;
  • Zero-logs servers for privacy protection;
  • Additional features like split-tunneling, an ad blocker, and a web safety scanner.

If you really want to improve your iOS privacy, consider additional file encryption software. Numerous iOS apps encrypt direct messages, cloud uploads, folders, etc. Check out user reviews for more. You can also switch from Safari to a more privacy-friendly browser.

Anti-theft apps

iPhones are among the more expensive smartphone brands. It makes them a popular target for street thieves. Nowadays, there are easy ways to track your stolen iPhone.

Anti-theft apps were developed to track your smartphone’s location. Moreover, with time they included numerous valuable additions. Look for these features:

  • Your iPhone will automatically take a picture after a few wrong access attempts;
  • Remotely lock your device with a passcode;
  • Remotely erase all data upon request;
  • Ring an alarm to check if the iPhone is near.

Due to Apple’s strict monitoring, there are fewer anti-theft apps than for Androids. But the ones available provide lots of benefits. Even though iOS excels at privacy and security, the discussed software will add additional protection. Apple can’t do anything about public Wi-Fi protection or stolen iPhones. But your cautious investment into essential security apps will significantly minimize the risks of getting hacked.
September 25, 2022