apple iphone security tips
A man uses his iPhone before a preview event at the new Apple Store Williamsburg in Brooklyn, New York, US, 28 July 2016 (Andrew Kelly/Reuters)

Apple devices may be advertised as the safest in the world, cyber criminals have always found loopholes from the company's software to break into the hardware.

For most iPhone owners, being wary and looking after their devices and activities might seem too much of a daunting task. But you must learn to accept that keeping anything of great value to you safe and secure requires effort.

Also read: iPhone user? Beware of this new phishing scam

However, security software firm AVG has made it easier for you to protect yourself from cyber criminals. Here are some security tips you should learn now to protect yourself, your identity and your iPhone from malicious people:

Turn on Location Services

The Location Services feature on your iPhone is not only for finding nearby bars, navigation, weather forecast, etc. This helps you find your phone's current location, which is especially useful when you lose it or if someone steals it. To enable it, go to Settings > Privacy > Location Services.

Turn on Two-Factor Authentication

In case you don't know, someone who knows your Apple ID password has as much as power as you have with your iPhone. That person can even buy apps using your account.

With Two-Factor Authentication, you will get a double layer of protection. Apart from your usual log-in Apple ID password, you will have to input a six-digit verification code or PIN code after it. To set it up, go to Settings > [your name] > Password & Security for iOS 10.3 users and Settings > iCloud > [your Apple ID] > Password & Security for iOS 3.2 users.

Use VPN

Primarily, VPN, or virtual private network, encrypts your internet connection so no one can trace your activities. It works even on public Wi-Fi networks. A caveat though, you'll be handing over your passwords and bank card details to the developer so make sure to know and do research on legitimate VPN providers.

Other tips

Meanwhile, you might also want to take note of some common security measures that you can have in place. First, constantly update your iOS version. Second, leverage the power of a passcode or Touch ID. Third, be extra careful and read to understand app permission requests. Fourth and last, read comments and review before downloading unknown or dubious apps.