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Bluetooth security on Android
Bluetooth is convenient for headphones, speakers, and car systems, but leaving it on when you do not need it increases your attack surface. This guide covers the key Bluetooth security settings and what you need to know about safe pairing.
Bluetooth settings quick reference
These are the key settings to review on your Android device:
- Turn Bluetooth off when not in use: swipe down for Quick Settings, tap the Bluetooth tile
- Visibility: when pairing, your device is briefly visible to others, return to non-discoverable mode once paired
- Check paired devices: Settings > Connected devices > Bluetooth: remove any device you do not recognise
- Device name: Settings > About phone > Device name: consider whether your name or other personal information is visible
When to turn Bluetooth off
Bluetooth creates a short-range wireless connection. Leaving it on unnecessarily:
- Allows your phone to be discoverable to nearby devices (within roughly 10 metres)
- Enables Bluetooth tracking by retailers and venues that use beacon technology
- Turns off when: you are in a crowded public space and not using wireless headphones or peripherals
- Keep it on when: you regularly use Bluetooth headphones, a smartwatch, or other paired accessories
Safe pairing practices
When pairing a new Bluetooth device:
- Only pair in a private location, do not pair new devices in busy public areas
- Confirm the pairing code matches on both devices if prompted: this prevents someone else pairing with your phone
- Only accept pairing requests from devices you initiated: reject unexpected requests
- After pairing, check: Settings > Connected devices to confirm only expected devices appear
- If a device you do not recognise appears in your paired list, remove it immediately
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