While the iOS platform tends to be more secure, when compared the “open” android system, it doesn’t mean the it is immune to threats. Major attacks have been orchestrated against iOS devices, particularly the iPhone. Most of these attacks have been in the form of spy apps that gather all sorts of information from the iPhone. But there are also other ways your device could be infiltrated. So, don’t let the iOS “wall garden” approach to security fool you into believing that your device is immune to attacks. Implement these strategies to be on the safe side.
1. Take measures to protect your account.
This is the first important step you should take to protect information on your device. Start by setting a strong passcode that could protect your data if someone were to steal your device. If your device comes with the Touch ID fingerprint scanner, be sure to scan your fingerprint and use it as your key for unlocking your device each time you want to use it.
2. Install a good security solution.
There are several solutions that you can implement to protect your device against actual theft and data retrieval. One of these effective security solutions is the anti-theft app “Find My iPhone”. This app not only allows you to track and locate your device if it’s stolen or misplaced, but you can also use it to remotely set a new passcode and even erase data if you think you won’t be able to recover the phone.
But this, however, is not the only mobile security solution you can use to secure your smartphone. There are some useful mobile threat defense applications out there, such as those supported by Wandera. These would be important for corporations that are transmitting data across multiple devices. This is particularly important if your device handles sensitive company information that could put you in trouble if it’s accessed by rivals or third parties. A robust mobile security solution that offers multi-level protection from mobile threats will enable you to reliably secure your iPhones and other iOS devices, data applications and users in your organization.
3. Avoid jailbreaking your iPhone.
While there are many clear benefits of jailbreaking your iPhone, it can make your smartphone vulnerable to attacks. The iOS platform is designed with security in mind. What’s more, the official App Store strictly regulates the apps on its store as well as the data you allow. This helps keep malicious elements at bay and that’s why iPhone tends to be quite safe from software-based security threats like malware, viruses, etc. Jailbreaking your device will open it up to these threats. It could also prevent you from getting iOS updates necessary for addressing bugs and vulnerabilities.
4. Download apps only from official Apple’s store.
You might be tempted to download the many fun apps that are popping up everywhere, but this is the easiest way to get your iPhone infected by viruses, malware and spy apps. Many of the iPhones that have been targeted are those with unapproved apps and/or jailbroken phones. To resist potential attacks and data theft, get your apps from the Apple’s official App Store.
5. Encrypt backups
If you sync your iPhone with your desktop or laptop, the files from the device are also stored on your computer. These files may be accessed by third parties who could use it against your interests. So make sure you encrypt those data backups to secure them and prevent people from accessing it.