How do I increase the security of an Android phone?

Increasing the security of an Android phone is not complicated. Android also brings a number of standard features, which we will look at in the first part.

Additionally, special Android derivatives offer more possibilities, but they are usually complicated for the user to integrate and maintain. The golden mean is offered by myLeny® with LenyMobile® from Switzerland. High security with 100% compatibility and convenience like that of popular manufacturers' cell phones.

First steps: Claim and possibilities

Before I choose a way to increase the security of my Android phone, I define my requirements and then choose from the available options the ones that provide high coverage of the requirements today and in the future.

First define the claim

What expectations do I have for the security of my Android phone?

then select solution

Which of the offered options meet my requirements?

Standard options

Install updates regularly

System and app updates don't just bring new features. Above all, they protect the device. Every new version closes known security holes. Attackers could otherwise exploit these. Therefore, set the automatic update function. The device will then handle the updates itself - this guarantees current protection.

Operating system and security updates

Most often found in "Settings – About the device", or by searching in "Settings – Update" (varies by manufacturer)

App Updates

1. Open the Play Store app

2. Tap Google Account

3. Tap Settings

4. Tap Network settings

5. Tap on Automatically update apps

6. Enable automatic app updates

If another app source (such as F-Droid) is installed, automatic updates can and should be also enabled there.

When purchasing a smartphone, it is also important to ensure that the manufacturer provides long-term security updates so that the device remains protected over a longer period of time.

Securing your Google account

Smartphones work hardly without a Google account, unless you have a LenyMobile®. It is the central entry point to your device. Here, automatic backups are stored, app purchases are managed, and data is matched. Many people also store passwords, addresses, and even payment details there.

When a stranger gets their hands on such information, they can essentially see your entire digital existence. Protect yourself: Use a secure password, a password manager, and enable two-factor authentication. Even if someone figures out your password, your account remains protected in this way.

Check the app permissions

Note: Many applications often claim more permissions than they need to operate. Therefore, check more often which apps have access to your location, camera, microphone, and contacts (in "Settings – Privacy & Security – Privacy dashboard") and specifically deny apps rights if the need for them cannot be understood, this will stop unnecessary data collection.

Turn on security features

Make sure to set up a lock screen with a PIN (6 digits or more). A fingerprint or facial recognition are also popular for unlocking, but these methods make it easier for a third party to force the unlocking.

Make sure the smartphone's content is encrypted (in "Settings – Privacy & Security – More security and privacy").

Open Wi-Fi networks pose risks

Public Wi-Fi hotspots, such as those in cafes or train stations, are often unsecured. Use your mobile data network instead, or if necessary, a VPN (as it is integrated in LenyMobile® and can be easily turned on and off). This encrypts your connection and prevents third parties from reading your data.

Advanced options

There are many other, sometimes important points, such as how the security of an Android smartphone can be improved with standard tools, e.g.

- Location is only shared with apps that need it when in use and the usage is plausible (also applies to other permissions)

- Use ad blockers

- Use an internet browser with privacy functions (DuckDuckGo, etc.)

- Hide caller ID

Other recommended measures

Beyond the standard and advanced options, the following measures, which are very important, can be taken depending on the application:

- using a synthetic location (changing the GPS location)

- using a secure network connection (using a VPN)

- blocking an installed app's attacks on other apps

- preventing damage through vulnerabilities that have not yet been fixed by the manufacturer

- encrypting data on the smartphone

These cannot be integrated and implemented by smartphone users or can only be done so with great difficulty. Alternative, secure Android implementations like GrapheneOS or LineageOS, and in some cases the installation of additional tools, can help with this. Equipping and continually maintaining one's own existing smartphone with these secure operating systems is hardly doable for most users. A solution that offers 100% compatible and continuous security for Android phones is myLeny® with LenyMobile® (LenyMobile OS).

Continue your learning journey

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