Do you have an iPhone in your hands? Be aware that the latest versions of the Apple brand have introduced a multitude of privacy-related features that significantly reduce the practices of downloaded applications. If you have already installed the updates, you have probably noticed the presence of the colored dots that appear in the status bar. Intrigued by that famous orange light at the top of the screen? Here’s what it’s for.
What does the orange dot on your iPhone mean?
Using your iPhone – Source: spm
You have noticed the presence of an orange light at the top right of your screen, above the signal icon, without understanding its meaning. Well know that it alerts you that your microphone is on and recording. You have surely noticed this when you were using the Siri function, for example. This light has been specially designed for privacy reasons so that you know when you are checked in. Besides, if the dot lights up on its own, even though you are not using the microphone, it might mean that an application is recording you. To be sure, all you have to do is access the control center: you can quickly detect which application is using the microphone. In this case, you will only have to disable microphone access for the application in question.
And what regarding the green dot?
In the same vein, the green dot is also a red flag, but this indicates that the camera is in use. It lights up for the front and rear cameras, so you’ll notice a green dot whenever you take photos or videos. But also when you talk on Face Time or when you unlock your mobile phone with Face ID. Just like with the orange dot, if it suddenly lights up when you’re not using the camera, go to the control center to check which app is using it.
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Good to know : If you notice these lights coming on during audio calls or while browsing Skype, Zoom, Facebook or Messenger, don’t worry, it’s normal.
Using your phone – Source: spm
Protecting your Smartphone from prying eyes is the leitmotif of all users. We all fear malicious intrusions or access to our personal data. Fortunately, there are several actions to put in place to best secure your device.
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Here are the golden rules to follow to protect your privacy:
- Always use complex passwords and remember to enable automatic device locking.
- Be sure to encrypt the data on your cell phone.
- Install security updates regularly.
- Systematically back up your personal data.
- Use a reliable and secure antivirus.
- Make sure to install apps from official websites and stores and read all legal notices carefully.
- Always watch your device and avoid lending it to strangers, even for a few minutes.
- As much as possible, refrain from connecting to public or unknown WiFi networks. This is the favorite territory of hackers and cybercriminals!
- For security reasons, avoid writing down certain sensitive information and secret codes on your mobile phone.
- Applications: before downloading them, always read the comments, whether positive or negative. It is an important mine of information, especially concerning the operation of the application. If some people warn “it’s not very efficient” or “it’s full of adware”, it’s better not to have it on your mobile.
- Control app permissions. Before downloading it, carefully read all the permissions requested and make sure they are justified. Granting incorrect permissions can send sensitive data to cybercriminals. If anything looks unusual or suspicious, decline the setup.
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