Securing your smart devices: A practical guide to staying safer online

Estimated reading time
 6 min

Key points

• With billions of smartphones in use worldwide, scammers and cybercriminals have plenty of opportunities to try to exploit these devices for their own gain, such as stealing money or personal information.
  
  
• To enhance your phone's security, only download apps from a verified app store, avoid using public Wi-Fi for important tasks, and regularly back up your phone and data.
  
  
• If your phone becomes compromised, you may restore it to normal by doing a factory reset, running anti-virus software and uninstalling any apps you did not personally download.

Simple security habits can help protect your smart devices and give you peace of mind.

Smart devices like smartphones and tablets are part of everyday life - from mobile banking to staying in touch with friends and family. Because they store personal and financial information, they’re a common target for cybercriminals.

Clicking suspicious links, visiting unsafe websites, responding to scams, or losing your device can put your data and money at risk. Improving your smart device security helps reduce the risk of scams, phishing, malware, and other forms of cybercrime.

Tips to help keep your smart phone and smart devices secure

1. Lock your smart devices 
   Use a strong PIN, password, fingerprint, or face ID on your smartphone, tablet, and other smart devices. This helps protect your personal information if a device is lost, stolen, or shared.
   
   
2. Keep your devices and apps up to date
   Update your device software and apps as soon as updates are available. These updates help fix security issues and protect your devices from malware and other cyber risks.
   
   
3. Only download apps from trusted app stores 
   Install apps only from official app stores. Check reviews and remove apps you no longer use to reduce security risks on your smart devices.
   
   
4. Be careful of scam messages and calls 
   Scams are designed to look and feel real. Protect yourself by avoiding unexpected links and attachments. Always verify suspicious requests using a trusted contact number - not the one provided by the caller or included in the message.
   
   
5. Avoid unsafe websites and public Wi‑Fi
   Some websites and public Wi‑Fi networks are not secure and can expose your device to viruses or malware. Avoid logging in to accounts or entering sensitive information on public Wi‑Fi.
   
   
6. Add extra security and back up your data 
   Turn on extra security features, such as multi‑factor authentication, where available. Regularly back up important data so it can be recovered if your device is compromised.
   
   
7. Enable remote tracking 
   Turn on device tracking and remote security features so you can find your device or delete its data if it’s lost or stolen.
   

How to tell if your smart device has been compromised

Your smart device may be compromised if you notice unusual behaviour, including:

• Unknown apps installed or messages you didn’t send appearing
• Slower performance or battery drain, which may indicate malware running in the background
• Apps not working properly, including crashing or opening on their own
• Frequent pop ups, ads, or notifications you don’t recognise
• Higher data usage or unexpected charges you can’t explain
• Unusual device activity, which may suggest someone has remote access

What to do if your smart device is compromised

• Run a security scan. Use your device’s built in security settings or trusted antivirus software to check for malware or suspicious activity.
  
  
• Remove unknown apps or programs. Uninstall anything you don’t recognise, and delete messages that contain suspicious links or attachments.
  
  
• Reset your device if needed. Back up your data safely, then perform a factory reset.
  
  
• Change your passwords. Update passwords for important accounts, using strong, unique passwords or passphrases.
  
  
• Check your accounts and statements. Review bank statements and account activity for anything unusual.
  
  
• Get help if something looks wrong. Contact your bank or service provider immediately if you notice suspicious transactions or activity. Learn how to report scams and fraud to ANZ.