Take charge of your mobile security.

Take charge of your mobile securityTake charge of your mobile security
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Take charge of your mobile security


Published on 16 Feb 2026
Smartphones have become essential tools in our daily lives. They hold everything from our precious photos and messages to sensitive financial information and access to social media accounts. But with this convenience comes a significant risk: our mobile devices are prime targets for hackers and cybercriminals.

The threats are real.

Your mobile phone is vulnerable to a variety of threats, including:
  • Malware and viruses: Malicious software can steal your data, track your activity, and even take control of your phone.
  • Phishing scams: Fraudulent messages, calls or emails trick you into revealing passwords or personal information.
  • Unsecured Wi-Fi networks: Connecting to public Wi-Fi hotspots can expose your data to interception.
  • Physical theft or loss: A stolen phone can give thieves access to your entire digital life.
For more information view our How to stay safe online page.

Taking charge of your mobile security.

The good news is that you can significantly enhance your mobile phone security by following some essential practices:
        1. Strong passwords and biometrics: Use a complex password or PIN, and enable biometric authentication (fingerprint or facial recognition) for added security.
        2. Software updates: Regularly update your phone's operating system and apps. These updates often include important security patches.
        3. Security software: Install reputable antivirus and anti-malware apps on your phone.
        4. Caution with downloads: Only download apps from official app stores, and be wary of suspicious links or attachments.
        5. Secure Wi-Fi: Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities like online banking. If you must use it, consider a VPN (virtual private network) for added encryption.
        6. Remote tracking and wiping: Enable features that allow you to locate your phone if it's lost or stolen, and remotely erase your data if necessary.
        7. Two-factor authentication (2FA): Whenever possible, use 2FA for your accounts. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a code from your phone in addition to your password.
        8. Physical security: Don't leave your phone unattended in public places, and be mindful of who has physical access to it.
        9. Parental Control Settings: If you are an Everyday mobile customer, you can download the Everyday Mobile from Woolworths App and can apply a parent subscription so you can control and monitor your child’s service within your account. Download the Everyday Mobile from Woolworths app and go to Options > Mobile > Parent control. Not a customer? View our plans.

Beyond the basics.

Consider these additional tips for an even stronger defence:
  • Encryption: Enable full-disk encryption on your phone to protect your data in case of theft. 
  • App permissions: Be selective about the permissions you grant to apps. Only allow access to features that are essential for their function.
  • Regular backups: Back up your phone's data regularly to a secure cloud service or computer. This ensures you won't lose your information if your phone is compromised.

Stay vigilant, stay safe.

By adopting these security practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of your mobile phone being compromised. Remember, security is an ongoing process. Stay informed about the latest threats and adapt your security measures accordingly. Your mobile phone is a powerful tool, make sure you're the one in control.

For more information refer to our scams page.

FAQs about staying safe online.

1. How can I tell if my phone has been hacked?

Common red flags include your battery draining much faster than usual, your phone feeling hot even when not in use, and mysterious data usage spikes. You might also notice unfamiliar apps on your home screen or frequent "pop-up" ads appearing even when your browser is closed.

2. Is public Wi-Fi safe to use for banking or shopping?

There are some risks to using public Wi-Fi. Public Wi-Fi networks in cafes or airports are often unencrypted, making it easy for hackers to intercept your data. This is a good time to use your mobile data (4G/5G) if you can, as cellular networks provide a much more secure, encrypted connection than open hotspots. If you must use public Wi-Fi for sensitive tasks, always use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to protect your information.


3. Do I really need antivirus software for my smartphone?

Yes, especially for Android users. While app stores have built-in protections, modern malware can still bypass these checks. Reputable mobile security software provides real-time scanning for malicious files and helps block "phishing" links in SMS or emails.


4. What should I do immediately if my phone is stolen?

First, use a different device to access your phone’s "Find My" service (Find My iPhone or Google Find My Device) to remotely lock or wipe your data. Next, contact your mobile carrier to suspend your SIM card and notify your bank to prevent unauthorised mobile payments.


5. Are biometrics (Face ID/Fingerprint) safer than a PIN?

Biometrics are significantly harder to bypass than a standard PIN, which can be "shoulder-surfed" (someone watching you type it). For maximum security, use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA); requiring both a biometric scan and a unique code for your most sensitive accounts.


6. How do I protect myself from AI "deepfake" scams on my phone?

In 2026, scammers use AI to mimic voices or faces of loved ones. If you receive an urgent request for money or data from a "familiar" contact, hang up and call them back on their known number. Always look for "glitches" in video calls, such as unnatural blinking or lip-syncing delays.

 

7. Where can I find additional information about protecting myself from scam calls and texts?

Refer to our scams page for information about how to spot a scam, additional information around what to do if you get a scam call or message. From 1 July 2026, any SMS sent with an unregistered sender ID will display as “unverified” or may be blocked from being sent.

Note: The information presented in this article was accurate and applicable at the time of its publication.

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~ Sign up to a new $40, $50, $60 Everyday Mobile from Woolworths SIM Only Plan between 9 August 2023 00:01 AEST and 30 June 2026 23:59 AEDT and link your Everyday Rewards card during the checkout process to receive 10% off plan monthly price every month as long as you stay active on the plan and have an Everyday Rewards card. Offer is available for new signups only. Everyday Mobile from Woolworths reserves the right to amend the offer at any time. Everyday Rewards Terms and Conditions apply.

General & Other.

1 Visit mobile.everyday.com.au/offers/10-off-your-shop for applicable terms and conditions, including eligibility criteria.

3 Purchase limits on International Roaming Add-ons: To ensure fair use of our services and to help prevent misuse and fraud, we may limit your ability to purchase International Roaming Add-ons. The specific limits may be adjusted as we identify new threats and trends. If you need to purchase multiple International Roaming Add-ons in your Everyday Mobile account, please contact us before your trip, and our team will be happy to assist you or suggest alternative options you can consider. Coverage: Quality and availability of international roaming services are subject to the local mobile network in the country you are visiting. This means that coverage may be limited or unavailable in certain areas, particularly in remote or regional locations.

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