Smartphones have evolved beyond just making calls and sending texts. They now serve as powerful safety tools that can protect you in emergencies, secure your data, and keep your personal information private. However, many of these security features remain underutilized simply because most users don’t know they exist. If you want to maximize your phone’s safety potential, it’s time to explore these hidden gems. Here are seven crucial security features you should start using today.
1. Emergency SOS for Quick Help
Your phone has a built-in emergency SOS function that can instantly contact emergency services when you’re in danger. On an iPhone, pressing the side button five times in a row triggers an automatic call to local authorities. Android users can enable a similar feature by pressing the power button three times. This setting also sends an alert to your emergency contacts with your real-time location. Taking a few minutes to activate this feature could make all the difference in a life-threatening situation.
2. Medical ID for First Responders
In case of an accident, first responders need quick access to your medical information. Your phone allows you to store critical details like allergies, blood type, and emergency contacts. On iPhones, you can set this up in the Health app under “Medical ID,” while Android users can find it in the Personal Safety app. Even if your phone is locked, responders can access this information without needing a passcode. Setting up your Medical ID ensures that vital medical details are available when seconds count.
3. Hidden App Lock for Extra Security
Most phones allow you to lock individual apps with a separate password or biometric authentication. This feature is especially useful for securing banking apps, personal notes, or messaging services. On iPhones, you can use Screen Time to lock apps, while Android users can enable this function in the device’s security settings. Some manufacturers, like Samsung, offer a “Secure Folder” to store sensitive apps separately. Adding an extra layer of protection prevents unauthorized access to your private data.
4. Automatic Message Alerts for Emergencies
If you’re ever in a situation where you can’t make a call, your phone can send an automated message with your location to trusted contacts. Android users can enable this under “Emergency Sharing” in the Personal Safety app, while iPhones allow you to set it up through Emergency SOS. This feature ensures that someone knows where you are if you feel unsafe or need assistance. It’s a proactive way to let your loved ones keep tabs on your well-being without needing constant check-ins. Enabling this feature takes just a few seconds but can be a lifesaver when you need it most.
5. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Auto-Disable
Public Wi-Fi and open Bluetooth connections can make your phone vulnerable to cyber threats. Fortunately, most smartphones allow you to set Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to turn off automatically when not in use. On iPhones, you can configure this in the Control Center settings, while Android users can use the Adaptive Connectivity feature. Keeping these connections off when they’re not needed reduces the risk of hackers accessing your data. Small changes like this help prevent cybercriminals from exploiting security loopholes.
6. Unknown Caller Silence to Avoid Scams
Scammers and robocallers have become more sophisticated, making it harder to filter unwanted calls. Thankfully, both iPhones and Android phones offer a “Silence Unknown Callers” option that automatically blocks unrecognized numbers. You can activate this feature in the phone settings under “Call Blocking & Identification” on iOS or “Caller ID & Spam Protection” on Android. This setting keeps nuisance calls from interrupting your day while ensuring that legitimate contacts still get through. By enabling it, you protect yourself from falling for phone scams or phishing attempts.
7. Location Tracking Permissions for Privacy
Many apps track your location in the background, often without you realizing it. Fortunately, you can control which apps have access to your location and when they can use it. On iPhones, go to Settings > Privacy > Location Services to adjust permissions, while Android users can do this under App Permissions. Choosing “Allow While Using” instead of “Always” limits unnecessary tracking. Reviewing these settings regularly ensures that only trusted apps can access your location data.
Your Phone Is Smarter Than You Think
Your smartphone is packed with features designed to enhance your security—you just have to know where to find them. By enabling these hidden safety functions, you can better protect yourself from emergencies, cyber threats, and privacy invasions. These small tweaks don’t take much time to set up but can have a big impact on your personal safety. Don’t wait for a crisis to take action—explore these settings today.
Are there any safety features you rely on that most people don’t know about? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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Latrice is a dedicated professional with a rich background in social work, complemented by an Associate Degree in the field. Her journey has been uniquely shaped by the rewarding experience of being a stay-at-home mom to her two children, aged 13 and 5. This role has not only been a testament to her commitment to family but has also provided her with invaluable life lessons and insights.
As a mother, Latrice has embraced the opportunity to educate her children on essential life skills, with a special focus on financial literacy, the nuances of life, and the importance of inner peace.