How to Secure a Windows Phone

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

1. Introduction

In this modern connected age more and more of our personal and professional lives are interwoven into our smart phones and tablets. Taking good measures to keep these devices secure should be of paramount importance.

This guide will walk you through the general steps and best practices in securing your Windows Phone.

2. Set PIN

The first step to securing your phone is to make sure you have a PIN set that you can remember, but others cannot guess.

1. Choose Start.
   

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2. Choose or swipe to All apps.
   

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2. Navigate to and choose Settings.
   

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2. Choose Accounts.
3. Choose Sign-in Options.
   

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2. Under PIN, choose Add.
   

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2. Enter your PIN, twice to confirm, and then select OK at the bottom.
   

3. Enable Encryption

An unencrypted phone is a security risk because regardless of the other security settings on your device, someone can access the phone through other tools, and read the stored data.

1. Choose Start.
   

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2. Choose or swipe to All apps.
   

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2. Navigate to and choose Settings.
   

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2. Choose System.
   

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2. Choose Device Encryption.
   

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2. Make sure Device encryption is set to On.
   

4. Exercise caution

Exercise caution when using your phone.

Be cautious of:

• What websites you visit.
• What you tap on while on websites.
• Links and attachments in emails.
• Granting 3rd party apps permissions.
• Who you let use your phone.