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YOU CAN NEVER be too safe with your smartphone, and for some, they will want to take as many steps as possible to ensure it’s secure.
On top of the usual passwords and PINs, encrypting your information means all the data that’s saved onto your phone is now presented in an almost unreadable format.
It’s perfect for those with sensitive data as it will prevent anyone from deciphering your data and gaining access to it. However, it’s not for everyone and there are some caveats to keep in mind before going ahead with it.
What to keep in mind
The kind of price you pay depends on your smartphone and the type of user you are, but it boils down to three main factors.
Speed: Accessing encrypted information takes a little bit longer than normal so opening up apps or services will see a delay, but the older the phone, the longer it takes.
Accessibility: When you set up, you’re required to enter in a password or PIN any time you want to unlock it. You won’t be able to use pattern or face unlocking when it’s encrypted so keep that in mind.
No going back: The only way you can return it to normal after encryption is to perform a factory reset. This will wipe out all your data and bring you back to square one.
It’s very important that before going ahead with this, you should back up all your data on your computer first in case you have to perform a factory reset.
Encrypting your device
If that doesn’t deter you, then go into Settings -> Security -> Encrypt Phone. Again, it’s worth stressing that you have your data backed up first before you proceed (there’s a reason why we’re repeating this).
Your phone’s battery must be at 80% and be connected to the charger before you can begin.
The process will take roughly an hour, meaning it’s better to perform this at night or during a quiet period as you won’t be able to use it while it’s reformatting.
Again, we cannot stress enough that if you’re unsure about any of this, don’t do it. It’s a very handy security feature to have, but it’s not the end of the world if you don’t.
A strong password, activating Android Device Manager so you can wipe your data remotely, and turning off Bluetooth and NFC when not in use are some ways to keep your smartphone safe should you decide not to go ahead with it.
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Its not a great process , I had some issues with applications running after encryption such as cloud storage etc etc and updating software is a nightmare . Its all a bit tinfoil hat tbh
I tried encryption on my HTC Desire a few years ago, it’s a complete pain in the hole, don’t install apps you don’t trust and you’ll be fine tbh.
So if my phone was on 81% battery encryption wouldn’t work? Got it.
Maybe have another read at what it says
Good to see my sarcasm wasn’t lost on you.
Correct Dave , just unplug the charger quick when it reaches 80%!!
Oh sarcasm, shit…sorry!
Perhaps I’m so good at it nobody can recognise it. Technically he should’ve said “at least 80%”. I’m only having a bit of fun!
How to add extra security to your ‘droid: ditch it for an iPhone.
IPhones are for idiots and teenage girls
I see the Journal app swallowed my smiley….
iPhones are for people who don’t want to have to install anti virus, encrypt their devices and generally just have a device that’s easy to use.
Jog on.
Obama isn’t allowed use an iPhone for security reasons
Sounds kind of like Android………but boring
To keep your phone secure, it’s more about what you don’t do that will keep it safe.
Examples are:
1. Don’t download adult content (if you’re into this use a reliable source if there’s any . I don’t know much on this, my friend told me out of nowhere.
2. Don’t download untrustworthy apps and or ones with relatively bad reviews.
3. Don’t download apps outside the Google play or Samsung apps store. Google have upped their have in terms of quality control so don’t worry.
Encryption is only necessary if you have sensitive info on the device. Follow the advice above and there’s no need for anti-virus or (just to annoy the apple fanboys) an iPhone.
Not trying to start a war here. I’m a techie myself so I prefer android. But I’m one of the few that give credit when it’s due and I have to say the iPhone is a great device.
Poll. Thumb up for iPhone, thumb down
For the portable headache that fits in your hand
Correction: it doesn’t fit in your hand.
All the idiots giving me red thumbs because they can’t read. SARCASM YOU BLOODY MORONS.
Welcome to TheJournal, where red thumbs usually indicate sane, sensible or logical comments.
Point made for me. Thanks.
How do you spell sarcasm
Dave, I think that should be a “t” in your surname instead of the “m”.
Download an Anti-virus app, personal favorite is lookout.
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