The iPhone is one of the most expensive mobile phones on the market, and the personal data it contains is extremely valuable to thieves. A recent Wall Street Journal report reveals that hackers are watching users input their passcodes into the device, and learning to guess the code. The information could also be used to reset passwords on an Apple ID or to access all the information stored in iCloud. Apple is working on updates to stop these strategies. There are a variety of ways that anyone can take to safeguard their iPhone from app thieves.
Begin by setting a strong passcode. No matter if you use Touch ID, Face ID or the numeric code with four numbers make it as difficult as it is to guess. This is the first step to preventing a thief to access your iPhone and personal information.
Review all the apps that allow you to access your location services including camera and microphone on your iPhone. If you find any suspicious behavior (for example an app asking for your camera or contacts list), remove those permissions immediately. Turn on two-factor authentication in the Settings application, and in any other apps that allow it. This will stop thieves from infiltrating your iCloud and downloading your personal data from the cloud.
A trusted security app can provide a wide range of protections that go from beginning to end for your iPhone. Mobile Security by Trend Micro for instance, analyzes Internet activity to detect harmful websites, adware, and protects your iPhone against identity theft through social media platforms, such as Instagram. The app also protects your privacy and offers an ad blocker feature for the most reliable security. F-Secure’s SaFE is another great option for a secure iOS experience. The app comes with a complete set of security features, including a vault for private storage that can store up to 40 private photos as well as an alert for password breaches which will inform you if your email password has been stolen.