January 3rd 2025.
For those who own an Android or iPhone, it's important to pay attention to the security of your device. There has been a recent increase in cyber attacks targeting these devices, and experts are urging users to take precautions.
Google has issued a "severe" alert regarding 51 bugs that could potentially expose devices to cybercriminals. This comes after high-profile attacks on Transport for London and the NHS systems. Additionally, the FBI has warned against sending texts after a major cyber attack on US telecoms company AT&T.
Even popular email services like Gmail and Apple ID have been targeted, causing problems for mobile users. It's vital for everyone to take a quick security check to reduce the risk of falling victim to a cyber attack.
For those with Android devices or any type of Google account, the Google account security checkup tool is a great option to protect your smartphone. This resource guides you through various steps to enhance your security, including safe browsing, recent activity, account recovery options, and sensitive settings, according to Forbes.
Google may prompt users to go through this checkup occasionally, but it's a good idea to do it more frequently, especially in light of ongoing cyber attacks.
On the other hand, Apple phone users can access the iPhone safety check feature if they are running iOS 16 or later. To find it, go to your device's settings, then privacy & security, and click on the safety check option. Alternatively, you can find step-by-step instructions on the Apple Support website.
According to Apple, the safety check feature "allows you to quickly review, update and stop sharing your information with individual people and apps." You can either choose an emergency reset to stop all sharing of information or a management option to review your sharing and access configurations. Additionally, it will let you know if you have enabled stolen device protection, which is always a useful feature to have.
Jake Moore, a global cybersecurity advisor at ESET, emphasizes the importance of these safety checks, saying, "Google and iPhone security checks are a simple yet crucial way to check whether any of your accounts are potentially vulnerable." He also recommends regularly updating your device's operating system, but notes that these updates only patch known vulnerabilities. Google and Apple safety checks go the extra mile by providing the ability to identify future security issues.
In conclusion, it's crucial for Android and iPhone users to take the necessary steps to secure their devices. By regularly performing these safety checks, you can protect your personal data, review your privacy and account access, and ensure your passwords are unique. Stay vigilant and stay safe!
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