"Used smartphones are attractive due to their low price, but I'm worried about security..."
"I'm concerned that personal information might still be on the device, or that it might be infected with a virus..."

Many people considering replacing their smartphone or tablet include used items as an option due to their good cost performance. However, we often hear concerns about the "security risks" unique to used items, which prevent people from making a purchase.

This article will provide a clear explanation from a professional perspective, covering everything from the main security risks inherent in used smartphones, to how to choose a safe device before purchase, and measures to take after purchase. We will also introduce PRODIG's thorough security measures as a reliable used smartphone retailer. By reading this article to the end, you should be able to resolve your concerns about used smartphone security and confidently choose a smartphone.

What are the security risks of used smartphones? What you need to know before buying

Used smartphones have unique security risks that new ones do not. Understanding these risks in advance will help you better envision precautions to take during purchase and measures to implement afterwards. Here, we will explain three particularly important risks.

Risk of remaining personal information and how to deal with it

The biggest concern when purchasing a used smartphone is the risk of the previous owner's personal information remaining on the device. Even if the device has been initialized, there is still a non-zero possibility that some data could be recovered using specialized knowledge or tools. If photos, contacts, or social media login information remain, there is a risk of personal information leakage.

To avoid this risk, it is crucial that the retailer has securely erased the data. Reputable retailers use specialized tools and techniques to completely erase data to a level where recovery is difficult before selling the device. However, if purchasing through a private sale or flea market app, you will need to research how to initialize the device yourself and carefully perform the settings. That said, personal initialization makes it difficult to completely prevent the risk of data recovery, so purchasing from a trusted, specialized retailer is still the safest option.

Risk of virus or malware infection

If a used smartphone was infected with a virus or malware during the previous owner's use, that risk may remain after purchase. Using a smartphone infected with a virus can lead to personal information being stolen, redirection to fraudulent websites, or remote control of the device. Used smartphones sold through legitimate channels undergo thorough inspection before sale, so this risk is relatively low. However, smartphones obtained through unknown channels may carry such risks. To avoid this risk, it is important to purchase from a reputable used smartphone retailer. Check the retailer's website or other sources to see what kind of process they use to check devices.

Risk of getting a stolen device or a device with payment issues (red ROM)

The used smartphone market sometimes contains stolen devices or devices with "red ROM" status, which means communication is restricted due to unpaid mobile phone bills. These devices cannot connect to a carrier's network, making calls and data communication impossible. This is often difficult to notice at the time of purchase and may only become apparent when you try to insert a SIM card and use it, so caution is advised. Particularly with flea market apps and private transactions, the risk of red ROM is higher. Reputable retailers check the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) to confirm that the device is not red ROM before selling it. Some stores also offer a "red ROM guarantee" in case the device turns out to be red ROM. When purchasing a used smartphone, it is important to always check whether the retailer offers a red ROM guarantee.

Three checkpoints for safely choosing a used smartphone

Having understood the security risks of used smartphones, here are specific points for choosing a safe device. By keeping these points in mind, you can significantly reduce your concerns about used smartphones.

Points to identify a reliable retailer

The security of a used smartphone largely depends on the reliability of the store where you purchase it. To identify a reliable retailer, check the following three points:

• Thorough Inspection System: Check if staff with specialized knowledge meticulously inspect the device's functions and operation. At PRODIG, our specialized staff carefully inspect each item and clearly indicate its quality rank.

• Comprehensive Warranty Service: In case of unexpected defects or malfunctions, check if the warranty period and coverage are clearly stated. In particular, the presence or absence of a "red ROM" guarantee is an important criterion. At PRODIG, we offer our unique peace-of-mind warranty to ensure customers can use used smartphones with confidence.

• Operating History and Reviews: Stores with a long operating history tend to be more reliable. Also, referring to reviews and reputations from actual users can provide insight into the store's customer service and quality of service.

How to check the device's condition in advance

It is important to check the condition of the device as much as possible before purchasing. Pay particular attention to the following points:

• Check the quality rank: Always check the quality rank set by the retailer. PRODIG uses a ranking system from S to C, making it easy for customers to understand the product's condition.

• Battery condition: Battery degradation directly impacts the lifespan of a used smartphone. At PRODIG, all products have a maximum battery capacity of 80% or more.

• Activation Lock解除: For iPhones, confirm that the previous owner's "Find My iPhone" feature is turned off. If Activation Lock is still on, you will not be able to use the device.

Click here for PRODIG's used iPhone lineup
https://prodig-shop.com/collections/iphone

Checking warranty and support systems

To use a used smartphone with peace of mind, a post-purchase warranty and support system are essential.

• Availability of Red ROM Warranty: The presence of a "red ROM warranty," which offers free exchange or refund if the device becomes communication-restricted due to unpaid mobile bills, is a very important factor when choosing a used smartphone retailer.

• Initial Defect Warranty: Check if there's an initial defect warranty that covers free repairs or replacements within a certain period in case of operational issues or malfunctions.

• Post-Purchase Inquiry Contact: It's also reassuring to check if there's a contact point you can reach out to immediately in case of any trouble.

Learn more about PRODIG's peace of mind warranty
https://prodig-shop.com/pages/guarantee

Peace of mind after purchase! Initial setup and measures for safely using a used smartphone

Once you've purchased a used smartphone, before you start using it, perform settings to ensure security.

OS updates and security settings

To safely use a used smartphone, it is essential to update to the latest OS. An older OS may contain security vulnerabilities, increasing the risk of virus infection and unauthorized access. After purchase, when connecting to the internet, first update the OS to the latest version in a Wi-Fi environment. Additionally, it is important to review privacy and security settings alongside the OS update. You can protect your personal information by turning off unnecessary app permissions and restricting tracking ads.

Checking and setting up remote control functions (e.g., Find My iPhone)

iPhones are equipped with a remote control function called "Find My iPhone." This is a convenient feature for loss or theft, but with used smartphones, if the previous owner's account information remains, there is a risk of remote control. After purchase, always confirm that this function has been turned off by the previous owner, and then set it up again with your own Apple ID.

Thorough lock settings with passwords and biometric authentication

To safely use a used smartphone, it is extremely important to thoroughly implement screen lock settings using passwords and biometric authentication. Even if your smartphone is lost or stolen, if the screen is locked, you can significantly reduce the risk of a third party unauthorizedly viewing its contents or misusing it. Set a complex password that is difficult to guess, and enhance security by also utilizing fingerprint or facial recognition.

Why is PRODIG's used smartphone reliable? Thorough security measures

Even those concerned about the security of used smartphones can use PRODIG with peace of mind. Here, we will introduce PRODIG's thorough security measures taken to ensure your "peace of mind."

Strict data erasure and inspection process by expert staff

All smartphones handled by PRODIG undergo a strict data erasure and inspection process by specialized staff before being sold. The previous owner's data is completely erased using special tools, so there is no need to worry about recovery. Furthermore, the device's operation and functions are meticulously checked to confirm that there are no problems before it is sold. This ensures that customers can use their smartphones with peace of mind, without worrying about the risk of personal information leakage.

Comprehensive support even after purchase, including red ROM warranty

At PRODIG, we offer comprehensive warranty services to ensure our customers can use used smartphones with peace of mind, even in the event of unforeseen problems. If a device becomes communication-restricted due to unpaid mobile phone bills (known as "red ROM"), we offer a "red ROM warranty" that provides free exchange or refund within a limited period. This prevents the worst-case scenario of "buying a used smartphone only to find it unusable." We also have other support systems in place, such as an initial defect warranty, to alleviate our customers' concerns.

Learn more about PRODIG's peace of mind warranty
https://prodig-shop.com/pages/guarantee

Providing SIM-unlocked devices

Most of the used smartphones handled by PRODIG are SIM-unlocked. This allows customers to freely choose and use a SIM card without being tied to a specific carrier such as docomo, au, or SoftBank. SIM-unlocked devices are also convenient when switching carriers in the future and offer high usability. Even if you are concerned that "used smartphones might be tied to a carrier," with PRODIG, you can rest assured that you can use them with your preferred carrier.

PRODIG's used iPhone lineup can be found here
https://prodig-shop.com/collections/iphone

PRODIG also offers a wide selection of used iPads
https://prodig-shop.com/collections/ipad

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I get a virus if I buy a used smartphone?

It is highly unlikely that a used smartphone purchased from a reliable retailer would be infected with a virus from the previous owner's use. This is because thorough inspection and initialization are carried out by expert staff before sale. However, if the device is of unknown origin or if you perform the initialization yourself, the risk of virus infection cannot be entirely ruled out. After purchase, promptly update the OS to the latest version and take measures such as installing security software.

Can I update the OS even on a used smartphone?

Yes, you can. Even with a used smartphone, if it is within the manufacturer's support period, you can update the OS just like a new one. OS updates are very important for security, so be sure to update to the latest version after purchase. However, older models may not support the latest OS, so it's a good idea to check before purchasing.

How should I erase data when selling my phone?

When selling your smartphone, it's crucial to initialize the device yourself and completely erase all data. For iPhones, turn off "Find My iPhone," and for Android devices, delete your Google account before performing a factory reset. However, it's possible that merely initializing the device yourself may not completely erase all data. At PRODIG, we use specialized tools to securely erase data from smartphones of customers who use our trade-in service.

For selling unwanted smartphones, choose PRODIG! Smart upgrades!
https://prodig-kaitori.com/

Conclusion

This time, to address concerns about used smartphone security, we've thoroughly covered everything from explaining risks to safe selection methods and post-purchase measures. While used smartphones offer the significant advantage of acquiring high-performance devices at a low cost, many people feel uneasy about security. However, by choosing a reliable retailer and implementing appropriate measures, you can use a used smartphone with peace of mind. At PRODIG, we have implemented thorough security measures and a comprehensive support system to ensure our customers can use used smartphones "safely, affordably, and practically." We invite you to find the perfect device for you at the PRODIG online store and start enjoying a comfortable smartphone life.