SMARTPHONES are full of useful apps but occasionally some can be dangerous and malicious.
Google recommends turning a specific app setting off in order to keep yourself safe from bad actors.
GettyGoogle warns against using a setting called “less secure app access”[/caption]
The tech giant’s support page refers to a setting called “Less secure app access”.
It’s a feature that lets you access apps that might otherwise be blocked by Google’s safety features.
Google explains: “Because less secure apps can make your account more vulnerable, Google will automatically turn this setting off if it’s not being used.
“If “Less secure app access” is still on for your account, we recommend turning it off now and switching to more secure apps.”
You may already have the feature turned off but checking is easy.
To check, open your Google Account and find the “Less secure app access” section.
You may need to sign in to turn it off.
However, you may find the setting is already being controlled for you if you’re using public or work WiFi.
Some users will see a message that says: “This setting is managed by your domain administrator.”
If you can control the setting, you can also turn it on via the same route.
This is not recommended by Google but it does allow it to happen.
Google warns: “Less secure apps can make it easier for hackers to get in to your account, so blocking sign-ins from these apps helps keep your account safe.”