Android & iPhone Users Urged to Run Security Checks

With the rise of cyber threats targeting both Android and iPhone users, cybersecurity experts and law enforcement agencies have issued fresh warnings to protect personal data from increasingly sophisticated attacks. Ongoing Gmail phishing schemes, Apple ID vulnerabilities, and other scams have left users of both platforms at heightened risk. Recent reports suggest that iOS devices are being targeted even more than their Android counterparts. In response, the FBI has recommended using a “secret word” strategy with trusted contacts to reduce the success rate of social engineering scams. However, both Google and Apple offer a free and straightforward security tool that all users should use immediately to help safeguard their devices and accounts.

Despite the availability of a powerful security checkup tool for Android and iPhone users, many remain unaware of its importance. As cybersecurity advisor Jake Moore from ESET explains, these tools are “a simple yet crucial way to check whether any of your accounts are potentially vulnerable.” These security features allow users to strengthen their personal data defenses, review privacy settings, and ensure their accounts are well-protected against potential threats. Whether you’re an Android or iPhone user, taking advantage of these resources could save you from falling victim to a cyberattack.

For Android smartphone users, Google’s account security checkup tool serves as a comprehensive resource for bolstering device and account security. Accessible through the Google Account settings, this tool guides users through various steps to enhance their online safety. The security checkup process includes enhanced safe browsing, highlighting unusual account activity, reviewing account recovery options, and addressing sensitive settings. Jake Moore emphasizes that running this checkup monthly should be a standard practice for all Android users. While Google occasionally prompts users to complete this task, relying on those reminders isn’t enough. Proactively performing the checkup ensures vulnerabilities are addressed promptly.

iPhone users running iOS 16 or later have access to Apple’s Safety Check, a tool designed to enhance privacy and security. While it may not be as extensive as Google’s security checkup, it is still a vital resource for iPhone users. Apple’s Safety Check offers functions such as an emergency reset to halt data sharing in high-risk situations and a sharing review feature to manage data and access configurations. Additionally, the tool enables users to verify if stolen device protection is active. As Jake Moore notes, enabling this feature is essential for ensuring your device remains secure even if stolen. Completing this check regularly will help protect your personal information and keep you informed about any potential vulnerabilities in your iPhone’s configurations.

While regularly updating your device’s operating system is a critical part of maintaining security, it only patches known vulnerabilities. Google’s and Apple’s safety tools go a step further by identifying and addressing potential risks that may arise in the future. For example, these checks can reveal compromised accounts, improperly configured privacy settings, or outdated recovery options that could leave users exposed to attacks. Jake Moore underscores the importance of these proactive measures, stating, “Regularly updating your device’s operating system is essential, but these generic updates will only go as far as patching known device vulnerabilities. Google and Apple safety checks go the extra mile and offer you the ability to check where security issues may arise in the future.”

While these security tools are invaluable, users should also adopt additional practices to safeguard their devices and accounts. Using strong, unique passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and keeping apps updated are essential measures. Users should also exercise caution with suspicious emails or messages and educate themselves about common scams.

The threats facing Android and iPhone users are real, but so are the solutions. Whether you use Google’s account security checkup tool or Apple’s Safety Check, these resources are simple, effective, and free. By taking just a few minutes to complete these checks, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to cyberattacks. Don’t wait for an incident to prompt action—make it a habit to prioritize your device’s security today.