The popularity of wearable fitness doesn’t require an introduction anymore. From smartwatches to smart rings, these devices are programmed to offer real-time data tracking, performance analytics, and much more.
However, as revealed by CyberGhost (CG), wearable tech collects personal health data and there are privacy risks surrounding that. So, how do you bypass that threat and keep your sports tech private?
Concerned about something similar? Hang out until the end to master all the different hacks to easily shield your personal data from wearable fitness devices.
1. Disable Unnecessary Tracking Features
A common concern that many users with wearable devices have is worrying that they are being tracked beyond the limitations of their fitness space. Features like location tracking and automatic data syncing are a direct manifestation of that worry. Let’s say that you are working out wearing your device but you have no need for GPS tracking, so turn it off. Similarly, if you don’t want the data to be stored automatically in your device’s cloud storage, turn it off.
2. Prioritize Solid Encryption
While many back-end security measures concerning wearable fitness devices aren’t in your hands, the front-end encryption is entirely up to you. Yes, we are talking about passwords. What might seem like a simple “key” to unlock an account, the password you select for accessing the app or the data can play an integral role in safeguarding it against third-party lurkers. So, pick a password that’s strong, unique, and has a combination of cases and elements to prevent the account from getting hacked into.
3. Limit Third-Party Permissions
Third-party app permissions are another complication that can pose a threat to the privacy and security of the fitness data. So, when you are managing the app permissions, ensure to disable unnecessary third-party permissions that can unnecessarily access your data. Auditing your app’s connections every few weeks is thus highly recommended.
4. Encrypt and Secure Your Data
Encrypting your personal data associated with the wearable fitness device is a great and effective way to secure your data. If you use devices from Apple or Garmin, they offer encrypted data storage, which is a lot handy. The extra encryption makes it difficult for hackers to access or extract your personal information. If you are leveraging public Wi-Fi to sync your data, use a VPN at that moment.
5. Turn Off Bluetooth and Wi-Fi When Not Needed
Hackers can exploit Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connections to intercept data. Disable these features when you’re not actively using them to reduce your risk of cyberattacks. So, whenever there is no need for these features to be enabled, it is ideal to keep them disabled until the next time you need them.
6. Be Cautious with Disposal
If you plan to sell your wearable fitness device or dispose of it because it is not working anymore, you need to be extra cautious about how you go about it. The first and possibly most important step is to perform a factory reset and delete all the stored data in the device because you part with it.
Final Words
Sports wearables come with many benefits, but they also come with many complications, especially when it comes to personal data security. Taking all these proactive steps can help you protect your personal data from being hacked into and misused. Always remain vigilant about the device you are wearing, the data it is storing, and how this stored data is being used.
