Cybercriminals are constantly on the lookout for ways to steal personal information, and security experts are now urging billions of iPhone users to take immediate action. According to national security officials, three settings that are automatically enabled on iPhones could be putting users at risk. These default settings may expose sensitive data, making it easier for hackers to access your Social Security number, credit card details, passwords, personal photos, and even your home address. This information can then be used to drain bank accounts, commit identity theft, or be sold on the dark web for a profit.

1. The Risk of Auto-Connecting to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Networks

One of the biggest security threats comes from your iPhone’s Wi-Fi and Bluetooth settings. While keeping Wi-Fi on may seem convenient, allowing your phone to automatically connect to nearby networks can be dangerous. Hackers can set up fake hotspots in public areas, tricking unsuspecting users into connecting. These “evil twin” networks mimic trusted Wi-Fi sources, such as a hotel or coffee shop, but instead, they intercept your data and can install malware on your device.

Cybersecurity firm Kaspersky warns that these types of attacks are “the biggest threat to free Wi-Fi security.” Hackers place themselves between your device and the legitimate network, gaining access to everything you send and receive. To prevent this, disable the “Auto-Join Hotspot” option in your Wi-Fi settings.

The National Security Agency (NSA) also advises against connecting to public Wi-Fi networks without passwords, as they are particularly vulnerable to cyberattacks. Similarly, leaving Bluetooth on when not in use can expose your device to “BlueBorne” attacks, which hackers use to infiltrate nearby phones and access private data. Turning off Bluetooth when you’re not actively using it can help mitigate this risk.

2. Location Services: A Goldmine for Hackers

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Another major security concern is your iPhone’s location services. Many apps request permission to track your location, but leaving this feature on all the time can be a serious privacy risk. If hackers gain access to this data, they can track your movements, learn your routines, and even determine your home address.

Earlier this year, hackers breached Gravy Analytics, a data company that collects user locations for businesses. The attack resulted in thousands of users’ movements being mapped in detail. This highlights the importance of controlling which apps can access your location.

To protect yourself, go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services. From there, you can see which apps are tracking you and disable location access for any unnecessary apps. Essential apps like Maps and Weather may still require location tracking, but you can limit access to “While Using the App” instead of “Always.”

3. App Tracking Transparency: Stop Apps from Spying on You

Have you ever mentioned a product in conversation, only to see ads for it pop up on your phone minutes later? Many apps collect data about your browsing habits, messages, and even microphone activity to build a profile for targeted advertising. While this may seem harmless, it also opens the door for bad actors to gain access to your personal data.

Apple’s built-in “App Tracking Transparency” feature allows users to control which apps can track their activity. To disable tracking, go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Tracking and toggle off “Allow Apps to Request to Track.” This prevents apps from collecting and sharing your personal information without your knowledge.

Additional Steps for Better Security

In addition to disabling these three settings, the NSA recommends rebooting your iPhone at least once a week. Restarting your device helps clear potential malware and disrupts cyberattacks that rely on ongoing access. The NSA also advises keeping software and apps updated, using antivirus software, and enabling multi-factor authentication for sensitive accounts.

Public Wi-Fi remains a major security risk, with cybercriminals exploiting these networks to steal personal information. To stay safe, avoid using public Wi-Fi in places like airports and coffee shops whenever possible. If you must connect, use a trusted VPN for added security.

Protect Your Data and Stay Secure

Cyber threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated, but taking simple precautions can make a big difference. By disabling automatic Wi-Fi connections, limiting location tracking, and restricting app tracking, iPhone users can significantly reduce their risk of cyberattacks. Staying informed and adjusting security settings can go a long way in keeping personal information safe from hackers.