Don’t Let Hackers Pick Your (Digital) Pocket

If you’re like us, you probably use your phone for almost all purchases now, whether in person or online. It’s incredibly convenient, and digital wallets like Apple Pay, Google Wallet, PayPal, and Venmo have made paying faster and easier than ever. But as our financial lives shift more onto our phones, cybercriminals are right there with us.

If your account is compromised, someone could drain your funds, rack up charges, or even use your stored information to access other accounts. It’s not always a complicated hack; sometimes it’s as simple as a stolen phone without a passcode or a phishing email that tricks you into giving away login details.

That doesn’t mean you should avoid digital wallets. When used wisely, they can be more secure than carrying cards or cash. The key is to make sure you’re protecting yourself. Here are a few practical steps:

• Lock your phone. Always use a strong password, PIN, or biometric login (such as Face ID or fingerprint). Also, ensure your phone locks right away or within a short period of time to limit the amount of time someone could have access if your phone is stolen.
• Enable two-factor authentication: this adds an extra layer of security by requiring a code when logging in from a new device.
• Watch out for phishing. Never click on unexpected links or messages about your account. Instead, go directly to the app or your online account.
• Keep software updated. Those updates often include security patches designed to keep hackers out.
• Only download legitimate apps. Many apps may not be what they seem and can expose your phone and wallet to tracking. Always download apps from official app stores, not from online sources. Also, be careful about what kinds of apps you download and delete any unused ones regularly.
• Allow Tracking and Remote Data Delete. Turn on remote tracking and data wipe features. If your phone is ever lost or stolen, tools like Apple’s Find My iPhone or Android’s Find My Device let you locate, lock, or erase your device from any web browser.
  
  

It’s always smart to monitor your accounts. Review your wallet and linked bank accounts regularly for suspicious activity. Turn on transaction notifications so you’re aware of suspicious activity right away.

Eventually, we won’t remember the days when we didn’t rely on our phones or online payment methods; they’re becoming part of everyday life. By taking a few smart precautions, you can enjoy convenience without risking digital theft.