Most people don’t think about the security of their text messages, but it is extremely dangerous not to. A lot of people go back and forth with friends, family, business associates, and more through text messaging on a daily basis. This means that the data users store in their text messages may be vulnerable to attacks from anyone at any time.
The truth is that you can never be 100% sure that no-one can gain access to your cellular phone. You won’t be able to prevent third parties from hacking into your phone. But you will have the ability to increase your chances of protection by implementing some simple strategies.
Some of these strategies are:
Accept That You Can Be a Victim
If you think nobody would ever want to get access to your text messages, you are sadly mistaken. People use your texts for different types of blackmailing purposes. Similarly, if you think there is no way for someone to hack into your email and social networking accounts, it is naive of you. You need to be prepared for these situations, only then will you have your guard up – as it should be.
Check Your Threat Level
Do you know the threat level you are under in regards to your text messages? No, this isn’t a threat. It’s a matter of checking into how secure your text messages really are.
Be Aware and Up-to-date
There have recently been many security breaches with text messages, as they are still the preferred mode of communication for many people. To ensure your messages remain secure, It’s important we know about these hacks, and take measures to protect ourselves against them.
Install Security Software Tools on Your Mobile Device
One of the most obvious steps you should take to help secure your text messages is to install security software on your mobile device. There are many great products to choose from, but it doesn’t matter which you use because they all keep more or less the same threats at bay. One of the best, though, is Bitdefender Mobile Security. It has an award-winning track record for detecting and eliminating a wide range of threats. Another important thing it does is block any downloaded malware that can take over your device so even if it does make its way onto your phone it doesn’t do any damage.
Protect Yourself from SIM Swapping
SIM swapping is the most common method of hijacking your phone and number. SMS marketing pros at messente.com/resources/guides/sms-marketing say that the idea is that a hacker finds your mobile phone number, disconnects it from its current user, and attaches it to his own SIM card, thereby becoming able to read and send text messages in your name, as well as make calls. You should always set a password for your sim, and be careful about the kind of information you divulge to people over the phone or internet.
Be Cautious About What You Download
How many times have you downloaded an app and clicked “I agree” without reading anything on the terms and conditions? If your answer is more than once, then there’s a chance that you might have compromised your phone’s security and privacy just because of curiosity or convenience. It’s okay to be excited about new apps and gadgets, but not okay if your eagerness could jeopardize safety. Take time to read the terms and conditions before downloading or installing anything on your mobile device.
Keep Your Operating System and Text Messaging Software Up to Date
There are several things that you can do to improve the security of your mobile phone. These tips will help protect potentially sensitive information that could be found in text messages, contact lists, or other applications on your smartphone. Endeavor to make it a priority that all of your software is up to date. This includes the operating system itself and any programs you have installed.
Download Secret Texting Apps
Secure your text messages by switching to one of the many secure texting apps for your phone. Your text messages are either being read, saved, or sold by your cellular service provider without your knowledge.
Encrypt Your Texts
Encryption is the process of encoding information in such a way that only authorized parties can view it. Keeping your communications private is essential for businesses. With encryption, you can protect sensitive data and intellectual property from falling outside legal bounds or falling into the wrong hands. Given the increasing risks to security posed by mobile applications, now more than ever, it is vital that you keep your business communications private
Avoid Using Public Wi-Fi or Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) If You Do
Public Wi-Fi, especially ones used for free, is incredibly convenient. However, the convenience comes with the risk of using a network that is less secure. If you use public Wi-Fi, hackers can intercept your data, including your instant messages and text messages.
Most of the time, the conversations on text messages that we have with our family and friends are innocent. However, there are cases wherein these text messages have been used as a medium for harassment or other mischievous deeds. These are often termed sexting, a term derived from the sexual nature of the acts being committed or portrayed in the texts. This is reason enough to make you think twice about finding means to keep your texts private. Take note of our shared tips, implement them, and stay secure.