Technology

WhatsApp is the most popular communication tool in Sri Lanka. To stay safe:

1. Enable two-step verification (Settings > Account > Two-step verification).
2. Never share your 6-digit verification code — WhatsApp will never ask for it.
3. Be cautious of messages from unknown numbers, especially those offering jobs, prizes, or asking for money.
4. Do not forward unverified news — check before you share.
5. Block and report numbers that send spam or threats.
6. Review who can see your profile photo and status (Settings > Privacy). Your messages are encrypted end-to-end, but screenshots can still be shared — be careful what you send.

Google Maps works well in Sri Lanka, including in the North and East. How to use it:

1. Open Google Maps on your phone.
2. Type where you want to go in the search bar.
3. Tap "Directions" to see the route.
4. Choose driving, walking, or public transport.
5. Tap "Start" for turn-by-turn navigation. Offline tip: before travelling to an area with poor network, download the map for offline use (tap your profile picture > Offline maps > Select your own map). You can also search for nearby services: type "hospital near me", "pharmacy near me", or "bank near me".

Common scams targeting Sri Lankans:

1. Fake job offers — "work from home, earn $500/day" — if it sounds too good, it is.
2. Lottery/prize messages — you cannot win a contest you never entered.
3. Bank messages asking you to "verify your account" — your bank will never ask for your PIN or password via SMS.
4. Romance scams — strangers online who quickly profess love and then ask for money.
5. Investment scams — "guaranteed 50% returns" — no legitimate investment guarantees returns. Protection: never send money to someone you have not met in person, never share passwords or PINs, verify any offer by calling the organisation directly using a number from their official website, and talk to a trusted person before making financial decisions based on online messages.

Your phone contains a lot of personal information. Protect it:

1. Set a screen lock (PIN, pattern, or fingerprint).
2. Keep your phone's software updated — updates fix security problems.
3. Only download apps from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
4. Be careful with app permissions — a flashlight app does not need access to your contacts.
5. Do not use the same password for everything — use different passwords for your email, bank, and social media.
6. Back up your important photos and contacts to Google Drive (free).
7. If your phone is stolen, use "Find My Device" (Google) to lock or erase it remotely.

Social media connects communities but also carries risks. Safety tips:

1. Set your profiles to private (Facebook: Settings > Privacy > Who can see your posts > Friends only).
2. Do not share your home address, phone number, or daily schedule publicly.
3. Be careful with photos of children — never post photos that show school uniforms with the school name visible, or photos that reveal your home location.
4. If someone you do not know sends a friend request, check their profile carefully before accepting. Fake profiles often have few photos and recent creation dates.
5. If you experience online harassment, block the person, take screenshots as evidence, and report to the platform.
6. Teach children that not everything online is true, and that they should tell a trusted adult if someone online makes them uncomfortable.
7. Do not share unverified news or rumours — it can cause real harm.