Digital threats have become increasingly clever, and even the most tech-savvy people can be caught off guard. The number and variety of cyberattacks have also increased dramatically. If you’ve been putting off a security checkup, it’s time to take action.
High-visibility users and organizations are at greater risk of targeted hacking attempts, which requires more vigilance. Google’s Advanced Protection Program provides an extra layer of protection for these groups. Google’s Advanced Protection Program is a free service that offers additional security measures related to phishing, web browsing, and app permissions.
What does Google Advanced Protection Program do?
There are lots of security features that fall under the Advanced Protection umbrella. These features contribute to phishing protection, account security, web browsing safety, and app permissions security. Here’s a brief overview of each security category.
Phishing protection
Phishing is a type of digital scam that involves sending emails that claim to be from a false source. Often the goal is to acquire sensitive information like passwords or bank account information. Have you ever ignored an email from a down-on-their-luck prince asking for a loan? That’s called phishing.
Gmail has great screening and blocking tools that avoid phishing emails. Look for warnings on suspicious emails in your inbox. Advanced Protection adds another layer of safety by requiring a security key when signing in to your Google account. This makes it harder for nefarious parties to use your login information.
Web browsing
Safe Browsing on Google Chrome is a great example of how Google makes web browsing a safer experience. This feature is available without the use of Advanced Protection and improves security by flagging or blocking downloads from risky websites.
Advanced Protection’s version of this feature is more thorough. It performs stringent checks before each download and notifies you of potentially harmful files. Hackers are relentless, so it’s nice to have extra protection when browsing the web. Additionally, only app downloads from verified stores (like the Play Store) and your device manufacturer’s app store are allowed.
Personal data security
It’s common to store sensitive personal information in your Google account and on Google Drive. It makes sense to be careful with who is granted access. Signing up for new apps or services often involves requesting access to certain information in your Google account. This is usually fine, but attackers can impersonate legitimate third parties to gain access. Advanced Protection allows only Google apps or verified third-party apps to access your Google account data, and only with your permission.
Who should use Google Advanced Protection Program?
The Google Advanced Protection Program is recommended for journalists, activists, business leaders, and people involved in the election process. Influencers and other people who are highly visible online also benefit from extra security and privacy.
Google’s Advanced Protection Program is available for Workspace, G-Suite, and personal accounts. Everyone with a Google account can take advantage of this feature. However, you must confirm with physical security keys or a smartphone.
How to sign up for Google Advanced Protection Program
Google’s Advanced Protection Program is free and only takes a few minutes to set up. You need to do a few things before Advanced Protection can take effect.
You need a security key
Before signing up for Advanced Protection, you need a security key. Google recommends that you have two. Security keys can look different, but think of them like small thumb drives that help you sign in with extra security. Advanced Protection walks you through the setup process when you enroll.
Most Android phones and iPhones have a built-in security key. Google has a page that details how to use your phone’s built-in security key. For iOS, you’ll need to install the Google Smart Lock app. Google makes Android, and it already includes Smart Lock.
You can also purchase separate security keys that plug into your device. Just make sure they are FIDO® compliant. These keys generally cost between $20 and $70. Google recommends starting your search with their Google Titan security key.
Add an email address and phone to your Google account
This preparation step is simple. Make sure any Google account you want to enroll in Advanced Protection has an email address and phone number attached to it. This is called two-step verification (2SV), and it’s required to use Smart Lock. This is important for verification and recovery purposes. Once you have a security key and a Google account ready to go, you can get started with Advanced Protection.
How to enroll in Google Advanced Protection Program
You’re ready to sign up for Advanced Protection. Follow these steps to get started:
- Read the Google Advanced Protection Program FAQ.
- Click Get started in the upper-right corner.
- Click through and follow the enrollment instructions.
- Follow the instructions to register your security key.
- Complete the enrollment.
After completing these steps, your Google account operates with Advanced Protection. Turning this feature off is simple if you change your mind. Navigate to Google account settings > Security > Advanced Protection Program > Unenroll.
Prioritize your online security
Digital security is an important part of using technology. Anyone who spends a lot of time online can benefit from extra security measures. Google’s Advanced Protection Program is a great service for people looking to boost their digital security. Given the recent increase in hacking attempts, you need to know how to use 2FA on your online accounts.
Security for your home
Securing your digital data is critical, but home security is also essential. Smart home devices can be invaluable in keeping your family, house, and possessions safe. To learn more about smart door locks, security cameras, sensors, and more, check out our comprehensive guide to smart home technology.
