What is NFC on Phone & How to Secure it with a VPN?

For today’s world mobile centric, convenience is the key. Near Field Communication (NFC) is one technology that increases our interaction with mobile devices on an everyday basis. NFC is used today in most modern smartphones to handle functions such as contactless payments, quick data sharing. The beauty of NFC is that it makes our lives easier, but for security we have to remember that it poses issues. Let’s keep this simple: in this article we will explain what NFC is, how it works and how you can help protect your NFC transactions because of a VPN like iProVPN.

What Does NFC Stand For?

Near Field Communication (NFC) is a wireless communication technology that permits two devices to converse in one another on the off chance that they are more than couple of centimeters far from each other. This short-range technology is known as a secure device to device communications and is a subset of RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), but its focus is not.

However, NFC is also widely available in smartphones because of how simple of an experience it is, and users can quickly make fast payments, share files and even automate phone function with a tap.

Understanding NFC: Meaning and Functionality

NFC technology relies on electromagnetic field communication between two NFC capable devices. Unlike Bluetooth, NFC doesn’t need a pairing process and doesn’t acknowledge any external power source so it is much faster and easier to use. Small amounts of data are exchanged between the devices that possess an NFC chip and antenna embedded in them, each able to communicate via short range radio waves. When the devices are not too far apart, the NFC connection takes place, seconds to transfer the data.

How NFC Works

As with all NFC transaction, when you start making a transaction with your device it will emit a radio frequency signal. This signal is detected by another NFC enabled device if it comes within range, when it connects with it. Once the two devices have exchanged information quickly, such as financial details or files, capabilities are opened for sharing what they hold in common to the other person. In fact, the process is so fast, in many cases it may appear to be instantaneous to the user.

The Benefits of NFC Technology

NFC comes with several advantages over traditional data transfer technique. It is a simple and fast one, which is why it’s an excellent candidate for various applications. Additionally, NFC connections are usually secure since they are secured by close proximity to the point of access. The special characteristic of NFC is that it makes it very useful for mobile payments and also personal data sharing.

Common Uses of NFC on Phones

Simplicity and speed of NFC leaves no chance for other mobile technology to compete. Here are some of its most common uses:

1. Mobile Payments

Contactless payment systems via Apple Pay, Google Pay and Samsung Pay rely on NFC to allow user to make secure payments simply by tapping their phone at a compatible payment terminal. Often this method of payment is not only convenient but also more secure with tokenization and biometrics built in.

2. File Sharing

NFC makes it possible for phones to share photos, contacts, documents with two phones brought close to each other. It eliminates complicated pairing processes or the use of mobile data which makes it the first choice for sudden sharing.

3. Access Control

NFC enabled badges or passes pass are used by many organizations to give secure access to restricted areas. As long as employees tap their badge on an NFC reader, they gain access to buildings or secure zones in a far less cumbersome manner.

4. Smart Tags

One of the biggest benefits of NFC tags is it can automate some tasks on your phone — it can be connected to Wi-Fi, launch apps or set you a reminder. These tags let users program them to do specific actions with a simple tap, improving workflow in porting out tasks each day.

5. Public Transport

Public transportation systems in many cities use NEC technology. With NFC enabled smartphones, commuters can pay for fares on their tablet or phone instead of coins, speeding up boarding for the metro.

How to Use NFC on Your Android Phone

NFC is activated in settings and works seamlessly with many apps on Android. Here’s how to enable and use NFC on an Android phone:

Enable NFC

1. Tap on the Settings menu from your Android device.
2. Find the Connected devices section.
3. Go to Connection preferences, and switch on NFC.

Make Payments

1. Open your preferred payment app (for mobile payments, like Google Pay).
2. You will be directed to add your payment information.
3. To finish making a transaction, you simply hold your phone near an NFC terminal.

Share Files

1. Upload the file you’d like to share (for instance, a photo).
2. Get both devices close to each other.
3. Start the data transfer by accepting the prompt in on both devices.

Scan Smart Tags

1. It’s as simple as just holding your phone close to an NFC tag.
2. The programmed action will be triggered automatically (so the next time you turn your phone on, it’ll connect to the Wi-Fi, or launch an app, or whatever it is that says to your device, ‘Hey, turn on Wi-Fi or launch app X.'”).

Android users already enjoy the convenience of contactless technology with NFC enabled and can enjoy handling everyday tasks with a tap.

Security Concerns with NFC: Risks to Consider

NFC is a simple thing, but it’s not without risks. Here are some common security concerns associated with NFC technology:

1. Data Interception

Hackers can intercept data from NFC devices that are range, especially in crowded places, and especially if it’s not on a secure network. If not patched, this vulnerability can allow a non-privileged user to access a user’s personal information.

2. Eavesdropping

NFC transactions allowing access to sensitive data can be tampered with by unauthorized devices, which can “listen in” to the messages. In public spaces where many devices are close one to another, this makes it a very big concern.

3. Unauthorized Access

However, if you have enabled your phone’s NFC, it’s possible for your device to be put into unwanted accidental or unwanted interaction with other nearby devices. These would also imply unintended sharing and transactions of data.

4. Malware Attacks

NFC technology can also be used by cybercriminals to infect clients. As an example, malicious NFC tags can be placed in public spaces, where users would inadvertently trigger them, running them onto compromised devices.

5. Phishing Attacks

In phishing scams, attackers can also use NFC to circulate fake NFC tags which then direct users to malicious websites. NFC tags must be authenticated by users before interacting with them.

But more importantly, your NFC activities need to be secured to avoid data leaks and various possible privacy threats in public lanes.

How a VPN Can Help Secure NFC on Your Phone

Consider the use case where NFC transactions also require an internet connection (by way of example, mobile payments, data sharing via NFC enabled apps), then a VPN protects your personal information on unsecure networks. Here’s how a VPN can enhance the security of your NFC transactions:

1. Encryption: Using a VPN can encrypt your internet traffic, or keep attackers from deciphering what you’re doing. This becomes all the more important if you’re ever using public Wi-Fi (or Wi-Fi networks where you don’t fully understand the users who will be joining).
2. Anonymity: With a VPN, your IP address is masked so you are not as easy to find online. More useful when you are doing the money transfer or exposure of sensitive data
3. Secure Connections: And a VPN will help the context protect your NFC enabled apps right off the starting block to help protect yourself from man in the middle attacks with your NFC access.
4. Access to Secure Networks: Well, if you are on the go putting private Wi-Fi in and want to access the internet then a VPN is the way to go.

Securing NFC with iProVPN

Therefore, iProVPN provides all the security and privacy features needed to protect your NFC enabled transaction. Here’s how iProVPN can enhance the security of NFC on your phone:

1. Strong Encryption

Your internet traffic is protected by iProVPN, who uses the advanced encryption protocols; and rapidly. They’ve made sure that intercepting your data is useless, as it’s encrypted with military-grade encryption, making it unreadable to third parties. Transacting via NFC requires such level of security to protect sensitive transactions.

2. Global Server Network

Being a worldwide service, iProVPN has servers everywhere including the US, Australia and much more, so you have all covered for secure transactions even while using NFC transactions on public Wi-Fi. That means that, wherever you are, you always have a server that you can count on.

3. Public Wi-Fi Protection

iProVPN’s public unsupervised WiFi protection automatically protects your device for free when you connect to unprotected networks. For example, if you’re doing NFC transactions in public spaces, such as cafes, airports, or malls, where there’s more of a risk of having someone intercept your data.

4. Split Tunneling

iProVPN is one such company that feature a split tunneling feature so you can decide which apps connect up to the VPN and which do not. This flexibility is useful to users who wish to save bandwidth for other less sensitive activities and be sure of their NFC transactions.

5. No-Log Policy

It’s a no log policy—iProVPN says it doesn’t track or store what you do online. In this context, I committed this to protect your NFC transactions and your browsing history as private.

How to Set Up iProVPN for NFC Security

If you’re using NFC in situations where you need added security, follow these simple steps to get started with iProVPN:

1. Download iProVPN

If you’re not using any Android or iOS devices, create an account, download iProVPN app from your device’s app store (Android and iOS), and enjoy your privacy online. Sign-up for the plan you desire

2. Connect to a Secure Server

1. 1. Open the iProVPN app.
   2. Choose a server based on your preferred location, especially when using public Wi-Fi. Connecting to a nearby server can help improve your connection speed.

3. Enable Encryption

1. 1. Make sure that your connection is secure before you activate iProVPN.
   2. Keep on doing your NFC transactions knowing your connection is safe.

With iProVPN, you get an extra layer of protection against data interception and privacy threats, having your NFC related activities private and secure.

Additional Tips for Securing NFC on Your Phone

In addition to using a VPN, there are several best practices you can follow to enhance security of NFC transactions on your device:

Disable NFC When Not in Use: Stop NFC when your device is not making any active use of it to avoid third person connection or transaction.

Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Sensitive Transactions: To make sensitive NFC transactions safer, try not to use public Wi-Fi networks.

Use Trusted Apps: The only apps worthy of using are those using a strong security measure for NFC transaction.

Stay Informed: Keep your phone’s operating system and apps updated to ensure you have the latest security features and patches.

Monitor Your Accounts: Keep a regular eye on your financial accounts and keep track of the transactions that happen.

But if you run these iProVPN on top of these additional security measures, you’ll minimize the risks associated with NFC technology.

Conclusion

NFC technology makes our daily lives much more convenient by quick data transfer and secure transactions. Like any technology, however, it comes with security risks user must deal with. Once you know the inner workings of NFC, and implement some additional security such as using a VPN like iProVPN, then you can leverage the ability of NFC without exposing your sensitive information. To bring out the best of NFC technology while preserving your privacy and security, use these simple steps.