When it comes to protecting your phone’s data against cyber criminals, you should feel more empowered knowing that there are several steps you can take that won’t eat up your time or money. Whether you have an iPhone or Android, focusing on some of the most popular apps out there that pose potential security risks is key. Tech Expert Jerome Casey, founder of OxfordWiseFinance, advises deleting this one app on your iPhone and Android if you want to avoid cyber criminals — or, at the very least, changing some of its settings to ensure you are as safe as possible.
TikTok
If you don’t have it by now, TikTok is a video-sharing app that allows users to create and share short videos and it is undeniably popular. “The app’s popularity among young people has made it a target for predators who use it to groom and exploit children,” Casey says. “Another concern is the app’s data collection practices, as it gathers extensive user data for targeted advertising. Additionally, TikTok has been criticized for its lax privacy policies and its failure to adequately protect its users from harmful content.”
To make using TikTok less risky, Casey says to consider the following steps:
1. Review and customize your privacy settings: Limit who can view and interact with your content, control personalized ads, and restrict access to your profile.
2. Be cautious of the content you engage with: Avoid sharing personal or sensitive information, and report any inappropriate or abusive content to TikTok.
TikTok isn’t the only social media app you may have on your device that poses risks.
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Snapchat
Snapchat is another popular messaging app that is known for its ephemeral nature, where messages disappear after a short time. “However, this feature can make it easier for users to share explicit or harmful content without fear of it being traced back to them, as recipients can take screenshots of messages,” Casey says. “Additionally, Snapchat's ephemeral nature can make it difficult for law enforcement to investigate crimes that occur on the platform. Also, the app has faced data breaches and privacy controversies.”
To mitigate risks when using Snapchat, Casey recommends these two tips:
1. Be mindful of what you share: Avoid sharing sensitive information, explicit content, or anything that could harm your reputation if it falls into the wrong hands.
2. Regularly review and adjust privacy settings: Limit who can contact you, view your stories, and see your location. Disable features like "Quick Add" to prevent unwanted contacts.
Whisper
Whisper may not be as popular as TikTok or Snapchat, but it’s catching on and is one to keep on your radar. “Whisper is an anonymous social media app where users can share secrets and connect with others,” Casey explains. “However, the anonymous nature of the app can lead to various risks. This feature can be used to share sensitive or personal information that could be used to exploit or target users. There have been instances of cyberbullying, harassment, and even criminal activity facilitated through the app.”
To minimize risks when using Whisper:
1. Avoid sharing personal or identifiable information: Maintain your anonymity by refraining from sharing details that could lead to your identification.
2. Be cautious of engaging with others: Understand that anonymity can sometimes embolden individuals to engage in inappropriate or harmful behavior. Report any instances of harassment or abusive content to the app moderators.
There are a number of steps you can take to minimize the access you provide cyber criminals — changing how you use certain high-risk apps or deleting them altogether can help make you less vulnerable to attacks.
