Essential Tips for Privacy and Security on Digital Devices

In today's digital age, safeguarding your privacy and securing your digital devices is paramount. Here are crucial steps and tips to enhance your digital security:

Authentication and Lock Screen Security

Protecting access to your mobile device is the first line of defense against misuse.

Steps to Enable Biometric Authentication and Passwords:

1. Go to Settings.
2. Select Lockscreen and Password.
3. Enable fingerprint or face recognition, and set a pattern passcode or password.

Enable Google Play Protect

Google Play Protect scans your mobile for misbehaving apps and alerts you about suspicious activities.

Steps to Enable Google Play Protect:

1. Open the Google Play Store.
2. Tap the Profile Icon at the top right.
3. Click on Play Protect.
4. Ensure the option is enabled and active.

Enable "Find My Device"

This feature helps you trace your mobile device's location on an interactive map if it's lost or stolen.

Steps to Enable "Find My Device":

1. Go to Settings.
2. Select Google.
3. Navigate to Security.
4. Enable Find My Device.

Update Emergency Contact Information

Display an emergency contact number on your lock screen for added safety.

Steps to Set Up Emergency Contact:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap User & Accounts, then Emergency Information.
3. Enter your medical information and emergency contacts.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

2FA adds an extra layer of security to your accounts, reducing the risk of password misuse or theft.

Steps to Enable 2FA on Android:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Select Google.
3. Go to Manage Your Google Account.
4. Click Security.
5. Enable 2-Step Verification.

Enable Safe Browsing

Get warnings when trying to access malicious sites or download dangerous content.

Steps to Enable Safe Browsing on Chrome:

1. Open Chrome.
2. Go to Settings.
3. Tap Privacy.
4. Enable Safe Browsing.

Use YouTube Kids App

Ensure a safe viewing experience for children with age-appropriate content.

Steps to Use YouTube Kids:

1. Download the YouTube Kids app from the Play Store.
2. Set it up by entering the year of birth and choosing the appropriate age group.
3. Enter your email and provide parental consent.
4. Use the received 4-digit verification code to start using the app.

Other Safe Viewing Options:

• SafeYouTube.net: Copy and paste the YouTube URL to generate a safe link without distracting content.
• Subscribe to Selected Channels: Sign in to YouTube, choose the desired videos, and click Subscribe.
• Enable Restricted Mode: Go to YouTube.com, scroll down, click Restricted Mode, enable it, and save the changes.
• Private or Unlisted Video Uploads: Sign in to YouTube Studio, select the video, and choose Private or Unlisted under visibility.

Enable Parental Controls

Parental controls restrict access to inappropriate apps, games, and media, ensuring a safer digital experience for children.

Steps to Set Up Parental Controls:

1. Open the Google Play Store app.
2. Tap the Menu in the top right corner.
3. Go to Settings.
4. Select Parental Controls and turn it on.
5. Create a PIN.
6. Tap the type of content to filter and set restrictions.

Other Monitoring Options:

• Use parental control apps like Net Nanny, Norton Family, Kaspersky Safe Kids, Bark, and mSpy.
• Establish digital device usage family agreements and create digital-free zones.
• Model good digital habits and be accessible to your children.