Hey Nordies, Our phones carry a large part of
our sensitive data. And Android is one of the most popular operating systems we use. In this video,
we will learn how to improve Android security and how to make your small green robot happy.
But before we move on, don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel and be
the first to get all our newest content. Now let’s get back to Android security.
While Android is relatively secure, it’s a bit easier target for hackers than iOS.
Also, Android banking malware grew by 35 percent in 2020. So there are quite a few major reasons
to treat your security seriously. Here are eight steps we recommend
you take to stay safer on Android: Number one. Turn on the Find my device feature.
This feature enables you to track your device, lock the screen, or wipe its data if you lose
it. Android usually has it enabled by default, but we recommend double-checking if it’s on.
Just go to Settings, then tap on Biometrics and Security
and turn on the Find My Device option. Also, you have to turn on your Location for it to work.
Number two. Always lock your screen Make sure you have your screen lock on.
Just avoid using weak passwords such as 0000 or 1234. Use strong and complex
passwords or a fingerprint lock instead. Android also has a Smart Lock feature,
which automatically unlocks if you are in a secure environment like your home. But we don’t
recommend it if you want max security. Number three. Activate lockdown mode
Lockdown mode blocks all your smart lock features such as your fingerprint and demands your PIN,
password or pattern to log in. This function may be useful if someone tries to forcefully
unlock your phone by using your face or fingerprint when you’re asleep,
unconscious or unaware. A PIN is always safer as it requires your conscious consent.
To enable Lockdown mode choose Lock Screen in the Settings menu. Then tap on Secure
Lock Settings and toggle on Show Lockdown option. To activate this mode hold down the
Power button and tap on the Lockdown Mode icon. Number four. Enable two-factor authentication
Two-factor authentication is an additional layer of security. On top of your password,
it will ask you for a security code or other info. So, it will protect you even if someone
hacks your primary password or PIN. We recommend enabling two-factor
authentication for every app. Here’s how to enable it on your phone:
First, go to your device Settings, then tap Google and pick Manage your Google Account.
Then tap on Security and find 2-step verification.
Now, sign in to your Google account, click Get Started and follow the steps on the screen.
Number five. Always check app permissions Apps usually ask your permission to
access various features on your phone. And we usually approve them without much questioning,
sometimes allowing suspicious apps to track and even collect our sensitive data.
We strongly recommend that you review your app-permission list and disable those you think
are suspicious or not essential. To do this: Go to Settings and tap on Apps.
Select Permissions.
Then select a permission and see which applications have it.
Toggle off all the permissions you feel are unnecessary or suspicious.
Alternatively, you can just open an app in the permission list and disable permissions there.
Also, always research every app you download.
Read the reviews or customer feedback. And avoid downloading apps from dodgy sources.
Number six. Enable Google Play Protect. Play Protect scans apps for malware or
suspicious activity. It also scans the apps installed on your phone and you can
decide whether you want to keep or delete them. To enable this feature open the Play Store app,
tap the three horizontal lines or dots and choose Play Protect.
Number seven. Use a VPN When you are out and about with
your phone, you usually use public Wi-Fi, which is often not well-protected. VPN encrypts your
traffic so you no longer need to worry about the safety of the networks you connect to.
NordVPN is definitely the best option for you. It’s simple,
easy to use, super safe and super fast. Get it here.
Number eight. Turn off your Wi-Fi and Bluetooth when not in use.
When Bluetooth is on, your device is always looking for connections,
which may pose potential risks, as criminals can take over your device by using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
And that’s it! We hope these tips will make you a happy and safer Android user.
Before we wrap it up, don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel and share your Android safety
experience in the comments below. Stay safe!
Liked our video? You may also like this one. Check it out here.