5 Reasons to Use a VPN on Your Phone

5 Reasons to Use a VPN on Your Phone

VPNs Are Not Only for Desktop Computers

VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. When you use a VPN, all of your internet usage will be encrypted and hidden from hackers and even your ISP. Consequently, they are invaluable as a way of keeping your data private and safe. A common scenario for using a VPN is working remotely and using a public or unfamiliar Wi-Fi connection. However, VPN’s aren’t limited to PCs and laptops. You can also install them on your phone, thus protecting your mobile data wherever you are. Here are 5 questions to consider before venturing out into the wild without a mobile VPN.

1. Is Your Private Data Safe?

These days iPhone or Android Smartphones are constantly connected to the internet, updating emails, syncing social media, and exchanging data. Moreover, when connected to an unsecured public Wi-Fi, your information is completely vulnerable. So, what if somebody intercepts that traffic and gets a hold of your Facebook password, credit card numbers, browsing history and confidential emails and messages? Installing a mobile VPN can hide you from these threats.

2. Is Your Phone Protected from Ransomware and Hackers?

More companies are reporting an increase in mobile phone ransomware attacks. They operate in the same way they do on PC networks. This means your mobile will be locked, and a ransom, typically in Bitcoin, will be demanded. So, the best way to prevent this is to not be visible on the internet. Using a mobile VPN creates a ‘tunnel’ that gives you anonymity from hackers.

3. Accessing Private Corporate Files on your Mobile?

When you’re out and about, it’s often easier to respond to urgent business emails from your mobile. But what if you need to attach a file? Well, if you access your work server via your mobile, and you don’t have a VPN, then you might be asking for trouble.

4. Gain Access to International Streaming Services with a Mobile VPN

Most streaming services, and some broadcasters, prevent access to their services from a different country. However, it’s possible to circumvent these geo-restrictions but routing your internet traffic through a VPN server located in the same country.

5. Looking for a Faster Connection and Greater Bandwidth?

Some VPN services, such as Speedify, offer the ability to combine several internet connections simultaneously. Consequently, you can expect faster streaming, better video calls and quicker downloading when you need it.

If you’d like to know more about mobile VPN’s, chat to our friendly team at SOS Phone Repairs today on 1800PHONES

6 Smartphone Security Tips You Must Do Now

According to recent research, the total number of mobile phones in use globally in 2020 is around 5 billion. About half of those mobiles are smartphones. Incredibly, this equates to about a third of the global population using their phones to browse the web, engage in social media, text, email, and make calls. So, even if you were late coming to the party, it’s likely you’re now using your smartphone every day and racking up gigabytes of accumulated personal information. At this point, you should be thinking about smartphone security. So, how will you keep your information, and privacy, safe?

1. Set-up a Passcode

This is a basic, first level of defense. This stops anybody from getting easy access to your apps and information. Also, for added convenience, set-up touch, or face ID if your device allows it. This way, you only need to apply a fingerprint or look at your camera to unlock it.

2. Avoid Suspicious Links

Treat any link you receive via text or email with caution. Basically, if you don’t know the sender then do not click it. Even if you recognise the sender, check first to make sure it was actually sent from them. Cyber-criminals are becoming more sophisticated and pretending to be someone else is their game. This is called phishing, don’t take the bait!

3. Don’t Delay, Update Today

Once you’re notified of a software update for your device, download and install it. OS updates are to add features but also to patch security flaws and provide better smartphone security.

4. Use a Unique Password Every Time

This can be annoying we know but if a hacker gets hold of a password, you can be sure they will try every account you have. So, consider using a Password Manager to help you create strong passwords and store them safely. Alternatively, write them down if you absolutely have to, but don’t keep them near your devices.

5. VPN’s For Smartphone Security

If you logon to free Wi-Fi, be sure to connect through a VPN app. Free, or Open Networks, are hotspots for cybercriminal activity. Browsing through a VPN will hide your activities from the prying eyes of the cybercriminal.

6. Backup to the Cloud

Make sure your phone is set to automatically backup to the cloud. This gives you peace of mind if your device is ever lost, stolen, broken, or hacked. Plus, if any of this happens, remember to use the ‘erase my phone remotely’ option.

If you’d like advice on any of the subjects discussed here, feel free to contact SOS Phone Repairs or call 1800PHONES today