New Phone for Christmas? What you Need to Do to Stay Secure

What Happens When I Get a New Phone?

Getting a new phone is exciting, but it’s important to make sure everything from your old phone moves over safely. Don’t worry; it’s easier than you think. Let’s break it down step by step.

 

Step 1: Save Everything on Your Old Phone

Before you start using your new phone, make sure all your important stuff (like photos, messages, and apps) is backed up. Here’s how:

  • If You Have an iPhone: Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup and tap Back Up Now. This saves everything to iCloud.
  • If You Have an Android: Go to Settings > System > Backup and turn on Back Up to Google Drive. This saves your data to your Google account.

This step makes sure you won’t lose anything when switching phones.

person on their phone with mobile device management researching self serve licencing for business password managers

Step 2: Move Your Data to the New Phone

Now it’s time to get everything onto your phone:

  • If Both Phones Are iPhones: Place them near each other and use the Quick Start feature.
  • If Both Phones Are Androids: Use Google Account Sync or a tool like Samsung Smart Switch.
  • If Switching Between iPhone and Android: Use apps like Move to iOS (for Android to iPhone) or Google Drive (for iPhone to Android).

These tools will copy over your contacts, photos, messages, and apps.

Step 3: Don’t Forget Microsoft Authenticator

If you use the Microsoft Authenticator app for logging into accounts securely, you’ll need to move it to your new phone too. Here’s how:

  1. Back It Up on Your Old Phone:
    • Open the app and go to Settings > Backup.
    • Turn on the backup feature (this saves your accounts to your Microsoft account).
  2. Set It Up on Your New Phone:
    • Download the Microsoft Authenticator app.
    • Log in with the same Microsoft account.
    • Your accounts should appear automatically if you used the backup feature.
  3. Manually Add Accounts (if Needed):
    • For accounts that don’t show up, log in to those services and scan the QR code again.

Tip: Keep your recovery codes (you get these when setting up 2FA) somewhere safe in case you need them.

Man on a computer checking his emails which was from a self serviced licence

Step 4: Check Your Banking and Payment Apps

Apps like online banking or Google Pay/Apple Pay might ask you to verify your details again. Log in to these apps and follow the steps to get them working on your new phone.

Step 5: Keep Your New Phone Safe

Make sure your new phone is secure:

  • Set up a PIN, fingerprint, or Face ID.
  • Turn on tracking features like Find My iPhone or Find My Device.
  • Update your phone’s software so it has the latest security fixes.

Step 6: Make It Yours

Now for the fun part! Arrange your apps, set a wallpaper you like, and connect any gadgets like smartwatches or headphones. Make it feel like home.

What About Your Old Phone?

Once your  phone is ready, decide what to do with the old one:

  • Trade It In: Many shops offer discounts on  phones if you trade in your old one.
  • Sell or Donate It: Before giving it away, wipe all your data. Go to Settings > Reset > Erase All Data.
  • Keep It as a Backup: Having a spare phone can be handy in emergencies.

Quick Tips for a Smooth Switch

  1. Double-check your backup before erasing your old phone.
  2. Test Microsoft Authenticator to make sure it works on your new phone.
  3. Follow official guides from Apple, Google, or Microsoft if you’re stuck.

 

In a Nutshell

Getting a new phone doesn’t have to be stressful. By backing up your data, moving it to your phone, and taking care of important apps like Microsoft Authenticator, you’ll be ready to go in no time. Enjoy your new gadget! If you need any more help however, don’t hesitate to reach out to Three Cherries. Our team of experts will be able to advise and assist you with your new phone.

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