Ranking updated
How to protect your phone from hackers and scammers
Most phones are not broken into by clever code. They are opened by a code the owner reads out to a “bank employee”, an old system version, or an app from a random link. A few habits close most of those doors, and they take an evening to set up.
Basic protection steps for Android and iPhone, then security apps, with a section for security apps rising by visits on the Censuus ranking. If you think an account is already compromised, change its password from another device and contact the service or your bank right away.
Security apps rising by visits and sponsorship on Censuus
Younger apps from independent developers:
2FA: TOTP Authenticator4.7★ App Storetwo-factor codes generated on the device, with Face ID, iCloud backup and an Apple Watch app.
ALocker4.8★ App Storelocks chosen apps and blocks deleting or installing apps when you lend the phone to a friend or a child.- Your app hereFree, foreverList my app
AdBlocker for Safari5.0★ App StoreSafari extension that blocks ads, reduces web tracking and filters unwanted sites.
MaskIDApp Storehides ID numbers, addresses, signatures and bank details on documents and photos before you share them.
X BrowserApp Storeprivate browser that blocks trackers, ads, gambling redirects and pop-ups and upgrades connections to HTTPS.
VPN Super Proxy4.6★ App Storeone-tap VPN for public Wi-Fi and mobile networks, no registration.
Updates, screen lock and two-factor login
Turn on automatic system and app updates, set a PIN or passcode with Face ID or fingerprint, and enable two-factor login on email, banking and social accounts. An authenticator app is safer than SMS codes; step by step in how to set up two-factor authentication. Strong unique passwords live best in a password manager.
Scammers ask, they do not hack
A bank will not ask you to read out a code from SMS, your CVV or a password over the phone. If someone calls “from the bank” or “from the police” and asks for that, hang up and call the number on your card yourself. Do not install apps from links in messages. Spam calls are covered in how to block spam calls.
Browsing, Wi-Fi and lending the phone
On public Wi-Fi, use a VPN and a browser that blocks trackers; see how to browse privately on your phone. Before you hand the phone to a friend or a child, lock your messengers and banking apps, as described in how to lock apps on your phone. Before sending a copy of a passport or ID, hide the details the recipient does not need.
| Step | What you do | Why |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Update the system and apps | turn on automatic updates | updates close known holes |
| 2. Lock the screen | a PIN or passcode plus Face ID or fingerprint | a lost phone stays closed |
| 3. Turn on two-factor login | codes from an authenticator app, not only SMS | a stolen password is not enough |
| 4. Never share codes | no code from SMS, CVV or password over the phone | this is how most scams work |
| 5. Install from official stores | App Store and Google Play only, check permissions | fewer fake apps |
| 6. Care on public Wi-Fi and when lending | VPN on public networks, locked apps when you hand the phone over | less exposure |
Frequently asked questions
How do I protect my phone from hacking?
Keep the system updated, lock the screen with a PIN and biometrics, turn on two-factor login with an authenticator app, install apps only from official stores, and never share codes or passwords.
How do I know if a call is a scam?
A request to read out a code from SMS, a CVV or a password is a scam. Hang up and call your bank on the number printed on the card.
Is public Wi-Fi safe?
Treat it as open. Use a VPN, avoid logging into banking on it, and keep the system and browser updated.