Are you taking every precaution possible to protect yourself when you use your iPhone’s browser to search for just about anything?
Did that question stop you in your tracks because you didn’t even know browsing required protection?
If so, you’re not alone. It isn’t uncommon for iPhone users to make a number of browsing mistakes that could be putting their security at risk. Browsers aren’t all one and the same. But no matter which browser you choose to rely on, they all have one thing in common: failing to take certain steps when it comes to your passwords, personal information, and daily tech habits can leave you more open to hacking attempts and, less seriously, make your iPhone experience less than pleasurable. This is the worst browsing mistake iPhone users make — and a few additional errors to keep on your radar.
Don’t click links or attachments before verifying the sources
Noticing a link that you don’t recognize? The last thing you should do is let your curiosity get the best of you, says Rick Van Galen’s, a security engineer at human-centric security leader 1Password. “Recognizing dangerous links is becoming more difficult than ever as hackers are becoming more sophisticated,” Van Galen says. “Look closely at the source of the link or attachment to verify legitimacy. One common trick these days is for hackers to claim to be a relative or colleague—but send from a different website or phone number.”
Make it a habit to update your iPhone and apps
Accept your phone’s operating system update as soon as it’s available and ensure your apps are updating regularly, Van Galen reminds us. Updates may seem annoying at the time, but they only take a few minutes and can make a huge difference in how your device operates.
Do NOT reuse or store passwords in the notes app; use a password manager instead
“If hackers uncover one password, they’ll try it across every account you use,” Van Galen says. “Instead of writing your passwords in your notes or another app, take advantage of a password manager to ensure you’re using strong, unique passwords for every app and website.”
Only enter personal info on sites you visit directly
Clicking through links are far more likely to lead to fake sites, according to Van Galen. “You can always google the name of a site and access it that way instead of following a link,” Van Galen says.
Stay safe while you browse on your iPhone and avoid security and privacy problems before they have a chance to impact your device — and your life.
