What to do before and after your phone gets lost or stolen

Losing your smartphone is a major inconvenience, especially given how much of our lives are now managed through these devices. Security expert Steve Wilson from Norton offers crucial advice on mitigating the risks. He emphasizes immediate action to protect your digital identity. Don't panic, but act quickly.

Proactive Security Measures:

Before a loss occurs, strengthen your phone's security. Use strong lock screen protection (fingerprint, face recognition, or a complex PIN). Access this through your device's settings (Android: Security & Privacy; iOS: Face/Touch ID & Passcode). While this won't prevent a reset, it protects your apps and accounts.

Regularly back up your data (photos, messages, etc.). Both Android and iOS offer built-in backup options, and many apps (like WhatsApp) provide cloud backups. Enable these features.

Apple's Stolen Device Protection (found under Face/Touch ID & Passcode) adds an extra layer of security, requiring biometric authentication even for an unlocked phone to make crucial changes.

Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on all accounts. This adds an extra security layer beyond just a username and password, even if your phone is compromised. While often app-based, 2FA usually offers backup methods (email links).

Remote Device Access:

Register your phone with its integrated device tracking service (Find My for iPhones, Find My Device for Google Pixels, SmartThings Find for Samsung Galaxies). These services allow you to locate your phone and take action remotely.

If your phone is lost or stolen:

• iPhones: Use iCloud's Find My to locate, enable Lost Mode (provides contact info), and remotely wipe the device.
• Google Pixel phones: Use Find My Device to locate, secure (lock and sign out of Google), or erase the device.
• Samsung smartphones: Use SmartThings Find to locate, lock, or remotely wipe the device.

Account Protection:

Your phone's lock screen should prevent unauthorized access. However, change passwords for all your digital accounts (social media, cloud storage, etc.) as an extra precaution. Some services let you remotely disconnect your phone (e.g., Google Account's "Manage all devices").

Notify your mobile carrier to block calls and texts. Contact your bank if you use banking apps on your phone. Inform friends and family to avoid potential scams. While strong security measures minimize risk, these steps provide extra protection.

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