Simple but dangerous mistake you make with your phone.
The simple but dangerous mistake you make with your phone every day.You might not always be aware of the numerous privacy options on your smartphone. To activate new security features for the iPhone and Android, tap or click here.
The other side of the coin is also present. Some features ought to be disabled, especially if you don’t use them. While some are only annoyances, others might put you at risk of cybercriminals.
Here is a typical setup with several applications and a significant downside.
Bluetooth is everywhere
Bluetooth is a short-range wireless radio technology that enables communication between various devices. Modern cars, speakers, TVs, headphones, keyboards, mouse, printers, and other devices all use technology.
Although it operates at shorter distances, Bluetooth is comparable to Wi-Fi and cellular networks in how it operates. Bluetooth doesn’t require data and can be used without a network connection or cellular coverage.
Almost every smartphone available today includes the common and practical technology known as Bluetooth. However, it has weaknesses just like a Wi-Fi network or other link.
Hacks and scams
Threat actors may use Bluetooth-enabled devices in the following ways:
They may attempt to fool you into disclosing personal information or downloading malware by sending you spam messages and links that are dangerous.
Your phone may be connected to by hackers who then instal malware or gain backdoor access. They can then access your contacts, read your messages, and listen in on your conversations. In essence, they are pestering your phone.
Cybercriminals may be able to access information from your phone, including call history, pictures, and passwords, and use it to steal your identity or hold it hostage.Bluetooth can be used by hackers and con artists to steal your phone as long as they are close to you, which can happen in almost any public area.
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What you can do about it
Although Bluetooth has various applications, it should nevertheless be used with caution. Here are some suggestions for being safe:
When you’re not using Bluetooth, turn it off. Your device becomes more discoverable the more active it is. Additionally, turning off Bluetooth will lengthen the battery life of your device.
Unpair any Bluetooth devices you no longer use, lose, or sell.
Sending private information through Bluetooth puts it at risk of being intercepted by others. In fact, you should refrain from communicating anything via Bluetooth in public settings, not even to your sitting friend.
Don’t accept any Bluetooth files or incoming communications.
Never accept Bluetooth pairing requests from unfamiliar devices.
How to turn off Bluetooth on your iPhone or Android phone
On your iPhone, you can disable Bluetooth in a few different methods. To turn off Bluetooth, go to Settings > Bluetooth. In order to access the Control Center and hit the Bluetooth icon, you can alternatively swipe down from the top right corner of your screen.
For Android phones, the same procedures apply: Turn off Bluetooth by going to Settings > Connected Devices > Connection Preferences > Bluetooth. The Status Bar may also be seen by swiping down from the top of the screen, and then Bluetooth can be turned off by swiping down and tapping it.
