Using an used phone helps save costs but also has many potential security risks, especially when you log in to social media accounts such as Facebook, Instagram, Zalo, ... If you are not careful, your personal information can be stolen or you can lose control of your account. Here are important notes to help you protect your safety when using social networks on your old phone.
Restore the original installation
The first and most important thing when buying an old phone is to restore the original settings to delete all of the previous user's data, apps and settings.
Update operating system and software
After resetting, check and update to the latest operating system version that the device supports. Updates often correct security errors and improve features.
Install virus terminal software and security
Although Android or iOS phones have integrated security, installing a reputable anti-viruses application will help detect malware or applications with suspicious behavior.
Exposure and delete old accounts
Before using an old phone, check whether social media accounts or services have been logged in or not. Register everything and log in again with your account to avoid being accessed by spies.
Use a strong password and activate two-factor authentication (2FA)
Always set complex passwords, do not reuse old passwords on social networks. turn on the two-factor authentication feature to enhance security when logging in.
Be careful with social networking applications
download social media apps from official sources like the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Limit external application installation or from unclear sources.
Consider the application's access rights, especially those related to messages, wallet, microphone, camera and location.
Do not save passwords and sensitive information on the phone browser
Avoid using the feature of automatically saving passwords or personal information on the browser if the phone is not under your exclusive control.
Regularly check login activities
Access social network security settings to view login history and logged-in devices. If you discover a strange device, change your password immediately and log in remotely.
Limit the use of public Wi-Fi networks
Public Wi-Fi has the potential risk of being stolen. When using social media on your old phone, limit logging in or conducting important transactions on public Wi-Fi, instead use 4G/5G or VPN to protect data.