Are your iPhone settings set up for success? In other words: do you know which of the most important settings you need to have enabled or disabled on your phone so that you aren’t vulnerable to bugs and cyberattacks?
If your answer is “no — help!” don’t panic. The good news is that you can make changes today, right now, that will automatically enhance your security and ensure your private data stays private. Tech Expert Deepika Adhikari, consultant at Thenaturehero, says you should always start with these four iPhone settings that tech experts recommend changing to fix bugs and enhance security.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Perhaps you’re way ahead of the game when it comes to password security and have changed all of your passwords in recent years so that they are all complex and consist of a variety of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. That’s a great first step — but two-factor authentication is the finishing touch you need (no excuses) to really boost your phone’s security.
“By requiring you to input a verification code in addition to your password when you sign in to your Apple ID account, two-factor Authentication adds an extra layer of security to your iPhone,” Adhikari says. “Go to Settings > [your name] > Password & Security > Two-Factor Authentication to enable two-factor Authentication.”
Turn on Automatic Updates
It’s important to keep on top of app updates because neglecting to do so can mean you’re using an outdated app that contains bugs and other security hazards. Luckily, there’s a setting that will update them for you so that you have one less thing to remember. “If automatic updates are enabled, the newest security updates and bug fixes are always available for your iPhone,” Adhikari says. “Go to Settings > General > Software Update > Automatic Updates to allow automatic updates.”
Disable Lock Screen Notifications
Anyone with physical access to your iPhone could learn crucial information through lock screen notifications, plain and simple, Adhikari says. Go to Settings > Notifications > Show Previews > When Unlocked to turn off lock screen notifications.
Restrict App Permissions
On your iPhone, some applications could ask for access to information or functions that are unnecessary for their proper operation, according to Adhikari. The simple solution: Go to Settings > Privacy > Select the appropriate category (such as Location Services or Camera) > Select the app you want to change the permissions for > Change the permissions as needed.
“By making these changes, you can help improve your iPhone’s security and performance,” Adhikari says. Even better: it will take you just minutes to boost your phone’s security.
