7 ways to help users limit being tracked when using smartphones.

In the digital age, smartphones have become the central repository for almost all of a user's personal information, from contacts and location to bank accounts and daily habits. However, this convenience also comes with significant data security risks.

Every day, millions of people use apps on iOS and Android platforms for work, entertainment, exercise, or social networking. However, not all apps are trustworthy. In many cases, users cannot know whether an app is secretly collecting data, even after refusing permission.

More worryingly, an app that seems "safe" today could become a threat tomorrow if the developer changes policies, is hacked, or sells it to a third party. Therefore, proactively protecting personal data is more crucial than ever.

Here are seven important tips from cybersecurity experts to help users enhance their security when using smartphones.

1. Use a password manager.

One fundamental but often overlooked principle is to create strong and different passwords for each account. Ideally, a password should be a random string of letters, numbers, and symbols, difficult to guess, and hard to crack using automated tools.

However, remembering dozens of complex passwords is no easy task. This is where password managers come in handy. These tools store all your passwords in an encrypted "safe," and also help you create strong passwords for each account.

Using the same password for multiple services poses a significant risk. If just one account is compromised, the entire user's account system could be breached. Password managers eliminate this risk by ensuring each account has a unique password.

2. Use a virtual private network (VPN) when accessing public Wi-Fi.

Free Wi-Fi at cafes, airports, or shopping malls offers convenience, but it's also fertile ground for cyberattacks. Malicious actors can monitor data traffic or steal information when users connect to the same public network.

Experts recommend using a virtual private network (VPN). This technology encrypts data, hides online activity, and reduces the risk of being tracked.

However, not all VPNs are reliable. Users need to thoroughly research the provider, their privacy policy, and how they handle data before using any service, especially free apps.

3. Control application access permissions.

One of the clearest warning signs of an insecure app is unreasonable permission requests. For example, a simple app like a calculator that requests access to contacts or location is suspicious.

Users should regularly check the permissions granted to applications and consider whether they are truly necessary. Granting excessive permissions can lead to the unauthorized collection and use of personal data.

Additionally, pay attention to any unusual signs after installing the app, such as rapid battery drain, device overheating, or slow performance. These could be indications that the app is running in the background or performing opaque activities.

4. Thoroughly research the app and its developer.

Before installing any app, users should take the time to research the app and its developer. A quick internet search using keywords like "data leak" or "scam" can provide a lot of useful information.

If a company has repeatedly experienced security incidents without clear remedial measures, that's a sign to avoid. Additionally, be wary of applications from lesser-known developers or those that have only released a single product.

5. Limit sharing information on social media.

Social media is a place where users can easily share personal information, but it is also an environment with many potential privacy risks. Even if you don't use it directly, your information can still appear through other people's accounts.

Sharing too much information allows platforms and third parties to build detailed profiles of users' behavior, preferences, and habits, which they then use for advertising or other purposes.

Experts recommend providing only the bare minimum necessary information, limiting the posting of sensitive data, and strictly controlling privacy on social media platforms.

6. Always keep your software and operating system updated.

Software updates not only bring new features but also help patch security vulnerabilities. This is a crucial factor in protecting devices against increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks.

Experts liken operating system updates to "vaccinating" smartphones. As attack methods constantly change, devices also need to be updated to adapt.

Users should enable automatic updates to ensure their devices are always protected against the latest threats.

7. Only download apps from official sources.

While absolute safety cannot be guaranteed, official app stores are still a more reliable option than third-party sources. These apps are typically vetted and required to be transparent about their privacy policies.

Installing apps from unknown sources can expose your device to malware, spyware, or viruses. In serious cases, malicious actors can gain control of your device and steal data.

In addition, users should carefully read reviews, consider the app's operating history, and check its credibility before downloading. Overly positive reviews lacking specific details may be a sign of fakes.

In the context of increasing cybersecurity threats, there is no solution that guarantees absolute safety for personal data.

However, changing usage habits and implementing basic security measures can significantly reduce risks for users. Proactive data protection is not just an option, but a mandatory requirement in today's digital age.