Expert says one 'hidden' iPhone setting could be putting you in danger
A cybersecurity expert has pointed out a "hidden" iPhone setting which could be putting you at risk - but many people may not even realise it's turned on
A cybersecurity expert has revealed a hidden phone setting that could be jeopardising your safety - and you might not even know it's active. Christian Espinosa, from Blue Goat Cyber, highlighted that a widespread phone setting could be "putting your life at risk without you even realising it".
The specialist detailed steps to modify settings for enhanced phone security and cautioned that having your location services activated for all applications could invite problems. Christian underscored that numerous people neglected to deactivate location and tracking services for apps they seldom used.
He pointed out the dangers of perpetually enabled location services. Trackers can piece together a profile of your habitual locations, such as where you live and work, and potentially exploit this data with ill intent.
Christian said: "By default, many people stick with location tracking turned on, or they choose 'always allow' access for apps, even when they're not actually using them. This basically means your phone's always collecting your location.
"Our daily routines mean we tend to visit the same places regularly home in the evenings, the office for work, and so on. This creates a pattern that reveals a lot about our movements. Location data is definitely more personal than you might think."
Christian emphasised the importance of being judicious with our location data, warning that we often share it with apps without a second thought. He advised that only essential apps should be granted access to our whereabouts for them to function correctly, reports Wales Online.
He recommended scrutinising which apps currently have permission to track your location and to consider if they truly require this information to operate effectively.
Christian said: "You've got the option to keep your location private most of the time, only sharing it when it's really handy. For example, if you need to find out how far the airport is from your hotel, that's perfectly alright. But if you don't need to be sharing your location, there's no need to."
