Technology is evolving rapidly. Major smartphone makers launch new models every year. According to GSMA research, a user in developed countries tends to replace his mobile phone every 18 months. However, selling or throwing away old mobile phones can pose a threat to cybersecurity.
Angel T. Redoble, FVP and Chief Information Security Officer, PLDT and Smart, said: “If it falls into the wrong hands, it can be used to steal someone’s money or identity.
PLDT and Smart’s Cyber Security Operations Group (CSOG) remind consumers that they recommend deleting all data from their smartphones before selling or disposing of them.
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How to clear data on your smartphone:
1. Back up files like contacts, photos, videos, messages, notes, etc.
2. Transfer to your laptop or external hard drive. Cloud storage is also an option.
3. Remove files from the device you are selling or disposing of.
iOS users can sign out of Apple ID, App Store, Find My iPhone, iCloud, iMessage, and FaceTime. Android users should log out of their Google account, Gmail, and Google Play account.
Also, you should perform a factory reset to clear any leftover data. For iPhone, to do this,[設定]Go to[一般]and select[リセット]then tap[すべてのコンテンツと設定を消去]Choose.
If you’re using an Android phone,[設定]then tap[システム]then[リセット]must be selected. But first you need to disable factory reset protection. This security feature is present in his Android devices with “Lollipop” and later versions.
PLDT and Smart also urge consumers to remove the SIM card and memory card if the phone comes with expandable storage.
In addition, smartphones intended for disposal should be placed in a dedicated bin for e-waste. Electronic devices contain chemicals that can enter the environment if not disposed of properly. Alternatively, users can donate their old devices to non-profit organizations for reuse or recycling.
