Strategies for Dealing with a Missing or Swiped Mobile Device
Feeling like you're attached at the hip to your smartphone? Well, try stashing it in another room for a spell and notice the sudden pang of unease. It's not just creepy to be without your device, but worrisome too — especially when you consider all the sensitive information tucked away on it. Let's say you lose or get your phone swiped — here's what to do pronto to safeguard your accounts and data.
Tighten the virtual reins, remotely
Whether your phone boasts Apple's iOS or Google's Android, you can lock it down, far away, provided you've prepped ahead of time. If you happen to be an iPhone owner, hit up your Settings and select Face/Touch ID & Passcode to fortify your lock screen, and enable Stolen Device Protection. This little perk requires authentication for a slew of phone features, so prying eyes stand less of a chance. About that Stolen Device Protection, you'll also find it under your Settings, right next to your name and Find My.
Android enthusiasts, this tip's for you! If your phone happens to be a Pixel, brave the Settings menu, then Security and privacy, then Device unlock (for lock screen protections) and Device finders (for remote access). Galaxy fans, head over to the Settings, pick Security and privacy, then Lock screen (for lock screen settings) and Lost device protection (for snagging your phone remotely). By swichin' 'em on, you're making life easier when you're separated from your phone.
Unfortunate soul that loses an iPhone, navigate a web browser and open iCloud on the web to the Find My section. There, you can catch a glimpse of the last recorded location for your device and switch on Lost Mode. Lost Mode provided some deets for whoever might find it and chance it back your way. You can also give the remote wipe command, making sure no uninvited souls gain access to your personal data.
Android users, kick back on Find My Device (Google phones) or SmartThings Find (Samsung phones). The drill here is pretty much the same as iPhones; remote locking, remote wiping, and location tracking. But let's not encourage any confrontations with potential thieves, kay?
Shore up your online haven
Assuming you've followed all the steps above, the odds of someone stepping into your digital world are slim-slim. But it's better to err on the side of caution,especially when it comes to your online accounts. You might want to reconsider your passwords for your top-tier apps. This'll log you out of your accounts accessible from your lost or stolen device. And hey, why not also toss a two-step authentication into the mix, if it's available?
Should you manage to log back into your accounts using another device, you can often remotely log out of your devices in one fell swoop. On Instagram's web version, click Where you're logged in to sign off from your devices. It won't hurt to occasionally review these lists either, as it helps spot any shady activity lurking about.
Google and Apple handle this rather well too. For Google accounts, pay a visit to the Security page on the Google dashboard on the web and click Manage all devices. macOS owners, open the Apple menu and choose System Settings to gain a peek at all the devices you're logged into (and remotely sign out, should you need to).
Inform the right people
Aside from the actions we've already mentioned, I'd suggest getting in touch with a few key contacts to fill them in on your predicament. Should someone crack your phone, then it's a security risk worth worrying about.
A nudge to your carrier is a smart move, as they can block your number and clear the path for no unauthorized charges. Once your phone number is left active, scummy characters can mimic you in myriad ways, sometimes even intercepting authorization codes meant for you.
Next up, your bank. With biometric identification rampant in banking and mobile payment apps these days, the risk of an indiscriminate shopping spree is relatively low. But assuming the worst, it's always better to be overly cautious, especially when it concerns your hard-earned cash.
Last, but really not least, it wouldn't hurt to reach out to family and friends and fill them in on your situation. This way, your social circle stays on guard, keeping an eye out for scams that pretend to be you (like requests for money or links with a phishing bent). Stay safe, folks!
- After securing your phone remotely, take a moment to bolster your online security by updating your passwords for top-tier apps, thereby logging you out of accounts accessible from your missing device.
- If two-step authentication is an option, consider implementing it for added security on your sensitive accounts.
- On platforms like Instagram, you can remotely log out of devices in one go from their web versions, which can help mitigate potential security risks.
- After losing your phone, ensure you contact your mobile carrier to block your number and prevent unauthorized charges, as an inactive number can prevent scammers from impersonating you.
