You’ve probably heard of jailbreaking and how it promises extra features and better performance for your device. This practice, that is also called rooting, typically comes with a caveat as it can — and in many cases does — remove essential security features thus leaving you vulnerable to hackers.
The original idea behind jailbreaking is noble as it enabled users to bypass restrictions that came with their devices. However, it used to be something really tech-savvy users could do whereas today there are off-the-shelf tools that enable regular users to join this party.
But is it for good? We don’t think so and we’ll explain why we think like that…
Rooting vs jailbreaking
Even though rooting and jailbreaking are the same thing, the latter tends to be associated with iOS-based devices such as the iPhone and iPad. The first jailbreaking tools were created to allow iPhone users to install third party apps onto their devices when that was not possible. Today, that is no longer needed and there are literally millions of apps every “iUser” can install on his/her beloved smartphone or tablet.
The idea behind jailbreaking or rooting is to provide users with “root” or “superuser” access that removes all kinds of limits Apple or any other device maker has put on their products. But, we must add here that some of those limits are there for a reason and the average user who isn’t too tech savvy with Linux kernels may not be aware of any risks associated with rooting his/her device. Those, less tech-savvy users, may also end-up “bricking” their device and make it completely useless.
Rooted devices are less secure
The ability to access the phone or tablet in its entirety means that any malware that ends up on your device can therefore cause more harm.
For instance, an app may be able to access all of the device’s sensors — including location data — and send that information to the server. This is how someone could be tracked. Or, a malware could send a message to your entire contact list.
The bottom line is that your data and your personal information is in danger when you root your device. So, no – we don’t suggest rooting.
Here’s an alternative…
Instead of jailbreaking or rooting your device, you could put yourself in a position where you don’t need to do that at all.
For instance, you can spend more time choosing your next phone (or tablet) and go for the one that lets you install third party apps — even so-called “launchers” in the case of Android. This way, you can completely change the way your device works.
The easiest way to get such a device is to ask in a phone store. Before going there, make sure to come up with the list of apps (launchers included) you want to install on your new phone or tablet.
While most stores these days allow you to return the device after a few days, you don’t want to end up with a product that doesn’t satisfy all your needs.
Then, when you find the device for yourself, make sure it’s well protected with an antivirus software and, of course, a VPN. For the latter, check out our Best of the Best VPNs page and take it from there. 😉