Technology evolves at a rapid pace. Smartphone makers release new models yearly. A GSMA survey indicated that developed-country customers change their smartphones every 18 months. Selling old smartphones can be a threat to cybersecurity.
PLDT and Smart’s Cyber Security Operations Group (CSOG) remind the public that before selling or disposing of smartphones.
“Data is the new oil. In the wrong hands, they can be used to steal someone’s money or identity. That’s why when we let go of our devices, especially smartphones, we wipe them clean of our information,” cautions Angel T. Redoble, FVP and Chief Information Security Officer at PLDT and Smart.
How CyberSmart individual protects data
Make a backup of your data, including contacts, photos, videos, messages, and notes. Move the files to a laptop or external hard drive. Cloud storage is another alternative. Delete files from the device that will be sold or discarded.
iOS users should sign out of their Apple ID, App Store, Find My iPhone, iCloud, iMessage, and FaceTime apps. Users using Android must sign out of their Google account, Gmail, and Google Play.
Additionally, a factory reset must be performed to erase any leftover data. This can be done on iPhones by navigating to Settings, selecting General, hitting Reset, and selecting "Erase All Content and Settings."
Owners of Android smartphones should select Settings, then System, then Reset. However, users must first disable Factory Reset Protection. This security feature is available on Android smartphones running Lollipop or later.
Finally, consumers must remember to remove SIM cards and memory cards from expandable storage phones.
Additionally, smartphones for disposal should be dropped inside dedicated bins for electronic waste. Electronics contain chemicals that can leak into the environment if not properly discarded. Alternatively, users can also donate old devices to non-profit organizations for reuse or recycling.
PLDT and Smart’s efforts to secure customer data are part of a much broader program to elevate the quality of customer experience by protecting them from threats and attacks.
These efforts also highlight the PLDT Group’s support for UNSDG No. 9 on Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. Supporting initiatives that manage e-waste underscores the companies’ commitment to UNSDG No. 12 on Sustainable Consumption and Production Patterns.
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