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Your smartphone is with you nearly 24/7—it’s your calendar, your camera, your wallet, and more. But with that convenience comes risk. From cyber threats to privacy concerns, staying safe on your phone is about more than just avoiding sketchy apps.

Here are some simple, everyday habits that can help you protect your device, your data, and your peace of mind—wherever you are.

1. Lock It Down

Why it matters: If your phone is lost or stolen, a strong lock screen keeps strangers out of your apps, messages, and accounts.

What to do:

• Use a passcode, fingerprint, or face ID

• Set your phone to auto-lock after 30 seconds or 1 minute

• Avoid simple passcodes like “1111” or your birthday

• Hide your notification previews

2. Stay Smart on Wi-Fi

Why it matters: Public Wi-Fi—whether at a café, airport, or hotel—is a hotspot for hackers. (Remember: MSU Secure and your home internet are not public)

What to do:

• Connect only to networks you trust

• Avoid accessing banking apps or sensitive accounts on open Wi-Fi

3. Keep Your Phone Updated

Why it matters: Software updates patch security holes that attackers exploit.

• Android
• Apple

What to do:

• Turn on automatic updates for your operating system and apps

• Check regularly for new updates if you prefer to install manually

• Don’t delay updates—even minor ones can be important

4. Manage Your Apps and Permissions

Why it matters: Some apps collect more data than necessary or run in the background when they shouldn’t.

What to do:

• Review app permissions (location, microphone, camera) regularly

• Delete apps you no longer use

• Best Practice: Set apps to “Allow only while using the app” unless a background function is essential.

• Only download apps from trusted sources like the or

5. Watch Out for Phishing, Scams, and Spam

Why it matters: Text message scams (smishing), fake app alerts, phishing emails and robocalls are on the rise.

What to do:

• Don’t click on links in suspicious texts or emails

• Never share passwords or codes via text (Duo and other MFA codes included)

• Use your phone’s built-in spam call blocking tools

6. Back Up Regularly

Why it matters: If your phone is lost, stolen, or crashes, backups ensure you don’t lose your most important data.

What to do:

• Use iCloud, Google Drive, or another cloud service

• Enable automatic backups for contacts, photos, and notes

• Back up to your computer occasionally for an extra layer of protection

7. Set Boundaries for Digital Well-Being

Why it matters: Endless notifications and screen time can take a toll on your focus, sleep, and mental health.

What to do:

• Use screen time tools or focus modes

• Mute non-essential app notifications

• Take regular breaks from your device, especially before bed

Final Takeaway

Your smartphone is a lifeline—but it can also be a liability if you’re not careful. Taking just a few small steps—locking your screen, updating regularly, and thinking twice about what you tap—can go a long way in protecting your digital life, every day.

“Your phone holds the keys to your digital life—treat it like your wallet, not just a gadget.”
— Emily Harris JD, CISSP, CIPP/US
Chief Information Security Officer

Want to Know More?

Futura |

Cyber Defense Magazine |

GCS Network |