Take back your smartphone with AI: Your smartphone knows more about you than most people do. It is basically your digital fingerprint. But what if someone else silently gains access? Registers a second Face ID, reads your emails, tempers with your files or controls your settings? I recently experienced a major security breach myself, and navigating the jungle of settings, security layers, and hidden permissions was overwhelming. That is why I am sharing a checklist to-go, combined with personal insight on AI-powered tools, to help you secure your accounts from unauthorised access and reclaim digital control.
Biometric & device access
Threat: Unauthorised Face ID or fingerprint registration.
The appropriate action would be to manually check and reset your biometric data in your settings. Both iOS and Android devices offer step-by-step guides on this matter.
AI Boost: Use Siri or Google Assistant to navigate straight to biometric settings or schedule regular security check-ins.
Hidden controls (screen time & digital wellbeing)
Were you aware that Screen Time on your iPhone is not just a productivity feature but that it is also an important security tool? It can block changes to your Apple ID, restrict privacy settings and track device usage.
The threat here is the covert use of screen time or digital wellbeing to monitor or limit your actions.
The appropriate action would be to audit restrictions and reset all settings.
AI Boost: Use ChatGPT or Gemini to explain settings in plain language or guide you gradually through a reset.
2FA & account recovery
Threat: Compromised two-factor authentication or recovery options.
Action: Review trusted devices, update recovery contacts and enable 2FA.
Let AI tools help you generate strong passwords, troubleshoot lockouts and summarise security policies before acting.
Email, App permissions & cloud vulnerabilities
Hidden third-party access to Gmail, iCloud or Drive is a big threat, and it is real.
The necessary actions would be to revoke suspicious app access, change passwords, check privacy dashboards, and run regular audits.
Google’s AI already flags suspicious email behaviour. A good thought would be to pair that with privacy tools that suggest which apps to remove.
Getting help – without getting scammed
Risky advice from unverified tech “experts” could be problematic. Handing your phone to a stranger at the next handy shop is even more so.
The solution would be to use official channels from your provider. Use AI tools like ChatGPT or Copilot to summarise support articles, guide your troubleshooting in real-time, ask context-aware follow-up questions and filter relevant forums (e.g., the latest Apple Support Community threads on ‘unauthorised Face ID’).
Take back control with AI on your side
Unauthorised access isn’t just inconvenient; it is a breach of your digital self and your trust. Whether it is a hacker exploiting weak settings, a friend borrowing your phone or a family member setting up controls „for your own good“, these breaches make you vulnerable and erode your autonomy. With a mix of awareness, action, and AI-backed tools, you can turn your phone from a risk back into your most secure ally. Use it as a wake-up call and as a toolkit.
