Smartphones today are more powerful than many laptops used to be — and that makes them a richer target for attackers. Add AI-driven social engineering, automated malware, and voice/video deepfakes into the mix, and the risk landscape changes rapidly. At Carlcare — the authorised service partner for TECNO, itel and Infinix — we see how small lapses in everyday behaviour open doors for attackers. We are writing this guide from our frontline experience: practical, device-focused, and designed for real users who want to keep their phones safe without becoming security experts.
Below you’ll find clear, actionable steps (and the why behind them) so you can protect your data, identity and peace of mind.
- Keep your system and apps up to date — patch first, ask later
Attackers exploit known bugs. Manufacturers and app developers release security patches for that exact reason. Installing updates promptly closes those holes. On your Android phones (TECNO/itel/Infinix run Android builds), security patches and firmware updates often include critical fixes — don’t postpone them.
Practical tip: enable automatic system updates and allow apps to update over Wi-Fi. Periodically check Settings → Software Update and the Play Store for pending updates.
- Use strong, unique credentials + a password manager
Passwords remain the first line of defence. Re-using the same weak password across services is asking for trouble. AI-assisted credential stuffing and automated attacks try known password lists across multiple accounts.
What to do: create long passphrases (three random words + symbols works well) and use a reputable password manager to generate and store unique passwords. If an authenticator app is available (Google Authenticator, Authy, etc.), prefer it over SMS for two-factor authentication (2FA) — SMS can be intercepted.
- Turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA) everywhere possible
MFA adds a second barrier that an attacker must breach. Use authenticator apps or hardware security keys where supported. For email, cloud services, social media, and banking apps — enable MFA.
Why it matters: even if a password leaks, attackers usually can’t pass the second factor. If an app or service only offers SMS 2FA, it’s better than nothing, but consider upgrading to app-based tokens where available.
- Be sceptical of messages — AI makes phishing look real
AI can craft convincing emails, SMS, WhatsApp texts and even voice calls that appear to come from a colleague, bank, or service you trust. The message may use personal details and natural language to trick you into clicking a link or sharing a code.
How to respond: don’t click links directly from a suspicious message. Verify through another channel (call the sender on an independently sourced number, or open the service’s app/website directly). Never share one-time passwords (OTPs) or authentication codes with anyone.
- Lock down app permissions and avoid unnecessary access
Many apps ask for broad permissions (SMS, microphone, contacts) that they don’t actually need. An app granted SMS permission could intercept 2FA codes; one with accessibility permission could perform actions on your behalf.
Action steps: go to Settings → Apps → Permissions and revoke anything that’s not essential. For new installs, pause and ask: “Does this app truly need this access?” Also, keep “Install unknown apps” turned off — sideloading APKs bypasses Play Store protections and is a common malware vector.
- Don’t root/jailbreak your device — it breaks built-in protections
Rooting or sideloading custom firmware removes Android’s security sandbox and disables manufacturer protections. It makes your phone an easy target for advanced attacks and can void warranty or Carlcare support.
Short and sharp: don’t modify your phone’s OS. If you must for specific reasons, understand you’re giving up critical security guarantees.
- Use a VPN on untrusted networks and be cautious with public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi networks are a playground for attackers who can intercept traffic, inject malware or redirect you to fake login pages. A trusted VPN encrypts your traffic, preventing easy snooping.
Tip: when on public Wi-Fi, avoid banking or sensitive tasks unless you’re on a VPN. Better yet, use your mobile data for sensitive operations.
- Protect voice and biometric unlocks — and your lock screen
Biometrics (fingerprint, face) are convenient, but treat them as one layer among many. Set a strong PIN/passphrase as a fallback and keep lock-screen notifications minimal — don’t let messages or OTPs be visible without unlocking.
Pro tip: disable smart unlock options that keep your phone unlocked in “trusted places” if your routine or environment changes.
- Back up and encrypt your data regularly
If an attacker does get in, having an up-to-date backup means you can wipe the device and restore safely. Use the phone’s native encrypted backup to cloud (Google Backup) or an encrypted local backup.
Carlcare advice: verify backup integrity occasionally — ensure your contacts, photos and essential app data are included.
10. Always Get Your Phone Serviced from Authorized Providers
When it comes to repairs or servicing, always trust authorized service providers. Unverified shops may use cheap or counterfeit parts, which not only compromise performance but also leave your device vulnerable to security risks. A replaced chip or faulty component from an unknown source can easily be exploited.
With Carlcare, the official service partner for TECNO, itel, and Infinix, you’re guaranteed genuine spare parts, trained technicians, and transparent service. Plus, the Carlcare App makes booking repairs simple and hassle-free — you can check spare part prices, find your nearest service center, and schedule appointments with just a few taps. Choosing Carlcare ensures your phone remains both secure and reliable, giving you complete peace of mind.
If you suspect compromise — act fast
If you notice some unusual signs like unusual battery drain, unknown apps, outgoing messages you didn’t send, random popups, act fast.
Take these immediate steps:
- Disconnect from the internet
- Change critical passwords from a separate device
- Log out of sessions (email/cloud)
- Back up important data
- And perform a factory reset if needed.
Once you’ve reset, reinstall apps only from the Play Store and restore backups carefully. If you’re uncertain, book a diagnostics session with Carlcare. Our technicians can inspect the device for tampering, rogue apps, or hardware-level changes and guide you through secure recovery.
