Prevent cell phone surveillance How to protect yourself from cell phone spying

Smartphones are indispensable everyday companions. But they can also become a problem for you if you are affected by spy apps or other malicious programs - and may not even realize it. That's why we've put together a few tips on how you can protect yourself.

The topic of security is a double-edged sword: yes, technology does a lot for us and smart programs and software integrations provide valuable support when it comes to protecting yourself from malware or dubious spy apps. But: No, you can't be completely inactive because of this. After all, it ' s your attention and your behavior when using your smartphone that make the difference. So go through the following tips and think about which ones you could optimize for yourself (or your smartphone).

1. check app permissions

iPhone: On your iPhone, go to "Settings" > "Privacy" > "Permissions" and check which apps have access to your camera, microphone, location and other data.

Android: On your Android phone, open "Settings" > "Apps" > "App permissions" and check the access rights of each app.

Remove those permissions that are not absolutely necessary for the function of the respective app.

2. download apps only from official sources

iPhone & Android: Only download apps from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store. Official app stores offer more security through regular checks of the apps and user feedback. On Android smartphones in particular, you should exercise extreme caution when downloading apps directly from websites onto your phone. This does not work with Apple.

3. regular software updates

iPhone: Go to "Settings" > "General" > "Software update" and install the latest update of your operating system. You can also give your device permission to download new updates automatically so you never forget.

Android: Open "Settings" > "System" > "Software update" and update your device.

Updates often close security gaps that can be exploited by malicious software. Since fraudsters are always looking for (and finding) new entry points to systems, regular software updates are very important.

4. use antivirus apps

iPhone: Antivirus apps are less common in the Apple universe, but you can use tools such as "Lookout" for monitoring.

Android: Use reputable antivirus apps such as " Avast" or "Bitdefender". These apps can detect and remove malicious software.

5. ignore suspicious links and attachments

iPhone & Android: Never, really NEVER open links or attachments in emails or messages (SMS, WhatsApp, etc.) that seem suspicious to you. Cyber criminals often use phishing techniques to spread malicious software. These can cause a lot of damage - but only if you open them. If you receive a strange attachment in the (supposed) name of a friend or family member: Better check with them before you click anywhere. This is because phishing scammers often use fake sender names.

6. strong passwords and two-factor authentication

iPhone & Android: Use complex passwords and - where offered - activate two-factor authentication (2FA) for your accounts. This mechanism provides an extra layer of security that makes it harder to compromise your accounts. If you don't want to constantly generate and write down highly complex passwords: Use a password app. We recommend, for example, "m-secure" (download for iOS / Android), "LastPass"(iOS/Android), "1Password"(iOS/Android), "Bitwarden"(iOS/Android) or "Dashlane"(iOS/Android).

7. use the security functions of the operating system

iPhone: Activate "Find My iPhone" and "Face ID" or "Touch ID" on your Apple device.

Android: Use "Find My Device" and biometric authentication such as "Fingerprint" or "Face Unlock".

These highly personalized features offer even more protection and help secure your device and data in case it is lost or stolen.

8. use VPNs

iPhone & Android: Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) when browsing to secure your internet connection and protect your privacy. VPNs encrypt your data and make it harder for third parties to monitor your online activity. There are two ways to get a VPN: Either you install an app on your device, for example NordVPN (download for iOS / for Android), or you use the VPN of an IT service provider. If you choose the latter, you can install the provider's VPN on your device as follows:

iPhone:

1. go to "Settings"

2. select "General" and then "VPN"

3. tap on "Add VPN" and enter the VPN configuration data that you received from your VPN provider

4. activate the VPN by flipping the switch

Android:

1. go to "Settings"

2. select "Network & Internet" and then "Advanced"

3. tap on "VPN" and then on the "+" symbol to add a new VPN

4. enter the VPN configuration data that you received from your VPN provider

5. activate the VPN by flipping the switch

9. uninstall unnecessary apps

iPhone & Android: Sounds trivial - but it's very helpful: remove all apps that you no longer use and preferably also those that you only rarely need and don't actually provide you with any concrete benefit (jokey apps, flashlight apps, etc.). Fewer installed apps mean fewer potential security risks. See also our article on the topic of spy apps.

10. sharpen security awareness

iPhone & Android: Keep yourself regularly informed about current security threats and remain vigilant. A healthy distrust and knowledge of potential dangers can prevent many problems.

Many people only concern themselves with digital security and their devices & apps once they have suffered damage. Be smarter - and don't let it get that far. We wish you many more happy (and safe) hours with your smartphone!

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