THERE’S an important iPhone and Android setting that can help you avoid serious trouble.
It only takes a few seconds to check that you’re covered – and it could make all the difference.
You need to check your phone to see if you have automatic updates turned on.
It’s easy to think that software updates just provide fun new features.
But they also fix serious security flaws that hackers can exploit to hijack your iPhone or Android.
Once a cybercriminal takes control of your device, they could wreak havoc on your life.
Think about how much of your life is managed through a smartphone: it contains collections of photos and texts, your personal contacts, and your financial information too.
That’s why it’s important to install the latest updates as soon as possible.
You could do this manually, regularly checking for new updates and installing them.
But why risk it?
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Unless you’re extremely vigilant when it comes to manual updates, it’s not worth leaving it to chance.
Simply turning automatic updates on can save you from a world of trouble.
It’s likely you’ve got it switched on already as a default option, but it’s important to check just to make sure.
How to turn on automatic updates on iPhone
Turning automatic updates on for your iPhone is extremely easy.
Just go to the Settings app and then head to General > Software Update.
From there, you can toggle Automatic Updates on.
This is where you’ll also see the iOS version that you’re running, and if any important updates are still waiting to be installed.
How to turn on automatic updates on Android
It’s similarly easy to turn on automatic updates for your Android phone.
Just go to the Settings app, then tap System > Advanced > System Update.
That’s where you can make sure that automatic updates are switched on, helping you stay protected without having to lift a finger.
It’s important to remember that updates aren’t only important on your smartphone.
Check other devices in your home – like your Microsoft Windows PC or Apple Mac – to see if they have an automatic update option too.
It puts you one step ahead of cybercriminals who know to target victims that fail to update their devices regularly.