Data protection becoming more important for smartphones

Data protection is a must on your smartphone. Every app on the phone has access to certain functions and features including browsing history, contacts, or photos. Typically, such access would allow the app to function properly, but users are advised to keep an eye on what the app may be demanding. Many users are now adjusting the settings on their phones according to the needs of individual apps.

For example, navigation apps may require access to your location (GPS), photos, Messenger, and/or contacts to function correctly. Many apps use personal information for even more functionality, says market researcher Bitkom. This makes it more important for owners to check access settings for each application.

According to a Bitkom survey, just over half of users in Germany (52 percent) have altered access to personal information for apps. In particular, most of these users have set their devices to block or temporarily block location access. 38 percent of users have changed app access to photos, while 25 percent have changed app access to their personal contacts. Last but not least, 17 percent of users have adjusted access to microphone control.

The Bitkom survey also reveals that younger users are more likely to block or alter application access. 63 percent of 14 to 29 year old users have already changed certain privacy settings compared to 28 percent of seniors. Users should retain the basic security of their smartphones in addition to having specialized security applications.

With that said, the "Swiss Army Knife" of security apps are currently the MP Security Antivirus App Lock or CM Security and Antivirus from Cheetah Mobile. In addition to security and anti-virus scans, these apps also offer anti-theft protection to lock the phone immediately if it is ever stolen. Other useful features include Internet Firewall, Wi-Fi network analysis, access protection and monitoring, and a system cleaner.

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