Don’t Leave For Spring Break Without Turning On These Powerful Security Features

Losing a smartphone can feel like losing a limb. We’ve all done it, and there’s nothing more sobering than realizing that the seven-ounce device that holds everything from your personal photos and private messages to bank details is missing. With phone theft on the rise (in London alone, the BBC reports that a cell phone is stolen every six minutes) and digital threats growing daily, a stolen or lost phone isn’t just an inconvenience – it’s a panic-inducing risk to your privacy and security.

Fortunately, Apple and Google have rolled out robust security features to combat these threats, including Apple’s Stolen Device Protection and Android Theft Protection. These tools can make your phone nearly useless to thieves and keep your data safe. So, before you head out on your well-deserved spring break, take a few minutes to check if these powerful features are enabled on your device. Note that some of these options are only available on the latest operating systems, so check that your phone is fully updated.

1. Turn On Stolen Device/Theft Protection

Apple’s Stolen Device Protection makes stolen iPhones and iPads virtually worthless to thieves. This tool locks your device when it’s not in a familiar location, preventing it from being reset or reused without your Apple ID credentials. To activate the tool, go to Settings > [Your Name] > Face ID & Passcode > Stolen Device Protection and turn it on. For Android users, enabling Theft Protection offers equivalent protection against theft. It even uses Google AI to detect when a phone has been snatched from your hand or bag and will automatically lock up. To turn it on, go to Settings > Google > All Services > Theft Protection.

2. Enable Advanced Data Protection

Apple provides end-to-end encryption for iCloud data, like photos, messages and backups, so only you can access your information. To enable it, users must update their devices to the latest iOS version, then navigate to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > Advanced Data Protection and follow the setup process. On Android, Google’s Advanced Protection restricts access to sensitive data and blocks harmful software sources. To enroll, log into your Google account and enroll in the Advanced Protection program.

3. Use Passkeys And Biometric Authentication

Many apps and services now support passkeys, a cutting-edge security feature. For example, platforms like Google, Apple and Microsoft allow you to log in using biometric authentication (like Face ID or Touch ID) instead of a traditional password. This eliminates the risk of password theft, making your accounts more secure and easier to access. To enable passkeys, look for the option in your device’s or app’s security settings.

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