The expert spoke about the necessary actions in case of loss of a smartphone.

The loss of a smartphone is not only a material loss, but also a serious threat to personal data. Everything from photos to banking applications and access to "Public Services" can end up in the hands of intruders. As Dmitry Morev, director of information security at RuStore, told Izvestia on July 21, it is important to enable security features in advance and know the step-by-step algorithm of actions if the phone ends up in the wrong hands.

According to him, if a user has lost their smartphone, the first step should be to try to dial up: perhaps the device is forgotten in a cafe, store or other public place. If this does not help, you should use the search functions.

It is noted that Android owners can activate the "Find device" service, which will show the location of the phone, turn on the beep or lock the gadget. iPhone users can activate the missing mode through the "Find iPhone" service — it remembers the last location of the device and can also lock it.

"Please note: these functions only work if you have enabled them in advance and your phone is connected to the Internet. Therefore, it is worth setting them up immediately after purchasing [the gadget]," Morev advises.

If the device is not found, the specialist recommends following a clear algorithm: turn on the gadget search, lock it remotely, display a message with contacts, block the SIM card from the operator, and also change passwords from mail, banks and other critical services.

"Be careful after activating the search — scammers often use the specified contact number for phishing attacks. They can introduce themselves as technical support staff and coax the password from your account," the expert warned.

Morev stressed that the main way to protect oneself is through proactive measures. The user should set a complex password or biometric lock, set up a PIN code for the SIM card, and enable data backup to the cloud. This will allow you to save information even in the event of a complete loss of the device.

"There are many cloud services available for users of both Android and iOS devices, with which you can easily configure automatic data storage," the specialist noted.

If the phone is in someone else's hands in an unlocked state, immediately erase the data through remote services. However, Morev clarified that this is an extreme measure — after erasing, it will not be possible to determine the location of the device. You should also log out of all accounts on your lost smartphone and contact the bank to block linked cards and disable digital wallets.

"Losing a smartphone inevitably causes stress, but with proper preparation and quick reaction, you can protect your personal data and minimize possible damage. The main thing is to set up all the security features in advance and not panic if the device is missing," he concluded.

On March 30, Alexander Dzhakonia, head of the MegaFon Subscriber Equipment Research and Testing center, told Izvestia how to maintain performance and extend the life of the gadget. He noted that it is important to provide the smartphone with proper nutrition, as well as to take care of protection from external factors. The case protects against scratches and acts as an airbag in case of a fall.