Doing so will keep most crooks out of your device, he said, adding that it is a myth that locked phones can be cracked in seconds like how they are depicted in the movies.
“That’s just Hollywood,” said Mr Sysmans. “Once the device is locked, it’s very hard to unlock it.”
Android and Apple users can also install apps that help locate their devices. These apps include Google’s Find My Device and Apple’s Find My app.
Pair the app with users on the same trip so that they can help to locate the device should it go missing.
Both of these apps pinpoint the location of a lost device on a map, and can remotely erase data on the device on command through a separate device.
These tools also serve as a convenient way to keep track of your loved ones while travelling.
Users should also keep a record of the phone’s identification number to include in a police report. The number is found in the settings menu of most devices.
Ensure that your important files are duplicated on a computer, or backed up in cloud storage services on Apple and Google accounts.
Photos and most digital files back up automatically, but users can update their messaging apps like WhatsApp to save their conversations more regularly in case the device is lost on the go.
What are the first things I should do if I lose my phone?
If you have your tracking apps installed and linked with your friends’ devices, you can check the location of your missing phone in real-time.
If it appears to have been stolen, consider wiping out the phone’s memory via these apps, which will ensure the crook does not have access to your apps or personal data.
Report your missing device to the local police and contact your wireless carrier.
How can I ensure my e-wallets are safe?
Mobile wallets like Apple Wallet and Google Pay provide users the option to make contactless payments without requiring biometric authentication for convenience.
But this can grant crooks access to the cards tied to a lost device, allowing them to make transactions until you deactivate the phone or close the bank accounts linked, said Mr Sysmans.
With biometric authentication in place, digital cards stashed in your phone might not be easily accessible, but as with a lost credit card, it is wise to call your bank to cancel the card or freeze your account, said Mr Sysmans.
