Nowadays, protecting your device from theft isn’t difficult, as there are many apps and tools you can use to keep track of its location and execute remote commands. With that said, here are the top five solutions for protecting any digital device from the risk of theft:
#1 Hidden App (MacOS and iOS)
Hidden App is the #1 recommendation for owners of Apple devices because it can track any phone that runs on iOS or any computer that runs on MacOS. You can track a stolen MacBook with this app in a matter of minutes, while also having the comfort of knowing that your iPhone is safe from theft. This app includes precise location-tracking features along with the ability to remotely lock or wipe your device so that the thief can’t access your data. The MacOS version can even be used for keylogging and facilitating remote access to your computer.
#2 Find My Device (Android)
Google’s official Find My Device web app is the default method of recovery for any devices based on the android operating system. This include smartphones, tablets, and Chromebooks. Hypothetically, you could install Android in an emulator like BlueStacks and use this software on any device. However, the downside is that it will only work if the device is connected to Wi-Fi. Fortunately, most thieves will be within connection distance of a Wi-Fi hotspot at one point or another.
#3 Cerberus (Android)
Cerberus is one of the most popular third-party anti-theft apps for Android. It gives you the ability to remotely control your device via SMS text message. You can access and wipe data remotely, take selfie photos of the thief, backup your data to the cloud, initiate a loud and deterring theft alarm, and track the location via GPS. You can also create automatic alerts using the AutoTask feature, and it supports Android wear devices like smart watches and fitness bands.
#4 SafeSkin (for iPhones only)
The SafeSkin case is a hardware theft deterrent for the iPhone, which prevents thieves from gaining access to your phone’s screen. This is a perfect tool to use in combination with a software like Hidden App. Even in a worst-case scenario, a thief will not be able to open your phone’s locked enclosure because they won’t have the secret colour code that you’ve designated. This device is currently in the funding stage and is available on IndieGogo. Future versions may feature biometric fingerprint scanning or PIN functionality.
#5 DIY Anti-Theft Chain
Finally, if you’re on a tight budget or want a low-cost physical solution that you can tailor to any device, you could always make your own anti-theft phone chain and charm. This won’t give you the ability to track the device or execute any commands remotely, but it’s a nice first line of defence to keep you from dropping your phone accidentally and to deter pickpockets or sneaky thieves. You can make one of these chains in minutes and it will attach to your belt buckle to keep your phone attached to your body at all times.
Pay Attention to Your Device’s Whereabouts
In closing, there are many ways to prevent the theft of your digital devices, but nothing beats knowing exactly where your property is at all times. Generally, it’s best to check for your phone or other device any time you enter or leave a vehicle or building. That way, if you’ve left it somewhere, you’ll know about it immediately.
Of course, as a second line of defence, you’ll want to have the above anti-theft measures in place as well. Ultimately, you should start with a comprehensive anti-theft app to make your device traceable and remotely controllable. Once you’ve done that, then you can worry about implementing protocols and hardware modification that will make your phone more difficult to lose or have stolen.