Protect Your Information Before Trading In Your Phone

Upgrading your mobile device is always rewarding—faster processing, better tools, and the latest technology. But with every upgrade comes a safety risk. Each year, millions of people face data breaches from weak security measures. To help protect your personal information and avoid fraud or identity theft, follow these steps when upgrading your phone.

1. Save Your Data

Your mobile device is your command center for your personal and professional life. It contains valuable information—from photos to work emails and contacts. Imagine losing it all due to an accidental oversight.

Take the time to back up your data before upgrading.

• Cloud Storage — Use services like Google Drive, iCloud, or Dropbox to back up your data. These platforms sync automatically, making it easy to set up your new device.
• External Backup — For added security, store your data on an external hard drive or USB. This gives you a physical copy, separate from online storage.

That way, you can upgrade without worrying about losing important files!

2. Remove SIM and SD Cards

Your SIM and SD cards not only store your contact information, but they also contain personal data, photos, videos, and messages as well. Before upgrading your smartphone, always remove both cards to avoid leaving sensitive information behind.

This step is important because it helps you avoid SIM swapping scams, which can put your accounts at risk and possible lead to identity theft.

3. Unlink Accounts Connected to Your Phone

Many apps and services are tied directly to your device. Take the time to disconnect all linked accounts to keep your information private. This ensures your accounts cannot be accessed on your old phone.

To safeguard your information, log out of the following platforms:

• Messaging Apps — GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Facebook Messenger, etc.
• Email Accounts — Default mail app on your phone (e.g., Apple Mail, Samsung Email) AS WELL AS platform-specific apps like Gmail, Outlook, and Yahoo Mail.
• Social Media Platforms — Facebook, Reddit, Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube, LinkedIn, TikTok, etc.
• Cloud Storage — OneDrive, Google Drive, Dropbox, iCloud, etc.
• Payment Methods — Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, Venmo, Cash App, etc.
• Multi-Factor Authentication — Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, 2FAS, Duo Mobile, Authy, etc.
• Shopping Apps — Amazon, Instacart, DoorDash, Target, Sam’s Club, etc.

4. Perform a Factory Reset on the Device

Think of a factory reset as wiping your slate clean. Performing a reset guarantees all your personal data is erased from the device, making it safe to trade in, sell, or recycle. If you don’t properly erase your personal data, hackers or cybercriminals may still be able to recover it.

To complete a factory reset, go to your phone’s Settings and locate the Factory Reset or Erase All Data option (this is usually listed under General or Backup settings). Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process, and don’t forget to double-check that all your information is cleared.

FIELD TIP: If you are upgrading in person, ask the representative at the store if they can assist you with performing a full factory reset.

5. Secure Your New Mobile Device

When your new phone is finally in hand, it’s time to protect it right from the start. Set up a strong password, activate biometric security (like fingerprint or face recognition), and enable auto-lock to ensure your phone locks itself when not in use.

It’s also equally important to keep your device’s operating system updated with the latest security patches. Turning on automatic updates is an easy way to stay protected.

What to Do If You Have a Breach in Cybersecurity

Even with the best precautions, cybersecurity risks can still happen. Here’s what to do if you think you were targeted by a scam or had security issues:

• STEP 1: Update Passwords Immediately — Change your passwords for all important accounts like email, banking, social media, and others tied to your device.
• STEP 2: Document the Details — Keep record of all communications related the incident so you can report and resolve the issue. This includes emails or messages from the cybersecurity breach.
• STEP 3: Notify Your Financial Institution — Contact your bank or credit union to report suspicious activity. They can help you monitor your account and keep your information safe. (Armed Forces Bank clients can securely contact through Digital Banking, send a chat message on afbank.com, or call our Client Care Line at 888-929-2265.)
• STEP 4: File a Complaint — Report the scam through the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). This launches an investigation and protects others from falling for the same scam.
• STEP 5: Alert Trusted Contacts — Tell your friends, family, or colleagues about the breach, especially if it affects shared accounts.

Stay Secure, Stay Ahead

Getting a new phone should be an exciting moment, not one overshadowed by the worry of protecting your information. By following these five security steps, you protect not just your mobile device but also your personal and financial data.

As a military bank, your security is our top priority. Always remember that Armed Forces Bank will never ask for your personal information, account numbers, or passwords by phone, text, or email. If you are unsure, contact us to confirm!

Visit our Education page to learn more about preventing identity theft and spotting potential scams.

FINANCIAL EDUCATION: Scams & Fraud; Preventing ID Theft; Reporting ID Theft; Fraud Alerts & Freezes; Mobile Security Tips; Visa Card Security; EMV Chip Technology.

FRAUD-SPECIFIC RESOURCES: General Cybersecurity; Common Scams; Safe Checking Practices; Military Scams; SIM Swap Fraud; Phishing Emails; Phone Scams; Text Scams; Pig-Butchering Scams; Crypto Investment Scams; Elder Financial Abuse; Business Fraud; Tax Return Security.