How can you best protect data on a mobile device?

Using two-factor authentication is one of the most effective ways to protect data on a mobile device. This security measure adds an additional layer of protection beyond just a password. Typically, two-factor authentication involves something the user knows (like a password) and something the user has (such as a smartphone app or a text message with a verification code). This means even if someone obtains your password, they cannot access your data without also having access to the second factor.

This is particularly important for mobile devices, which can be more susceptible to theft or loss compared to stationary devices. By requiring this extra step, the risk of unauthorized access is significantly reduced, helping to safeguard sensitive information stored on the device.

The other options, while they may have their merits, do not provide the same level of direct protection against unauthorized access to your data. For instance, storing data on a commercial cloud application can offer security, but it is contingent upon the security measures of that cloud service, which you may not fully control. Disabling automatic screen locking increases vulnerability, as it allows anyone who gains physical access to the device to access its contents without any barriers. Turning over your device to authority figures can put you at risk of data exposure without ensuring that you retain control or privacy