Your teen now has their own cellphone. This proud moment often comes with questions from parents. From physical protection to data security, here are 9 concrete steps to ensure everything is properly in place.
- Protecting the device against damages and malfunctions
- Securing accesses and personal data
- Preparing for loss or theft
- Starting off on the right foot
Protecting the device against damages and malfunctions
Accidents happen, even with the best precautions. Before diving into security settings, take the time to protect the device itself against everyday wear and tear.
1. Start with a case and screen protector
This is a good pair to install the very first day. Cases absorb shock, and screen protectors prevent streaks and cracks. These two simple accessories can save a costly screen repair. There’s a wide selection available in-store; there’s something for everyone. And check out our guide on how to install a screen protector.
2. The Mobile Device Protection Program
To be covered in the event that something more serious happens, such as water damage, loss, or theft, check out the Videotron Mobile Device Protection Program. It covers accidental damages and situations that are not necessarily covered by the manufacturer’s warranty, and can prevent you from paying full price for a replacement phone. This safety net is well worth considering.
Securing accesses and personal data
By protecting your teen’s device, you are securing their privacy and information. This step is ideal to open a discussion with them on best digital practices.
3. Locking and passwords: the first reflexes
Set up the screen lock together, ideally using a code (PIN). Pattern locks can easily be reproduced if someone watches the gesture a few times. For optimal security, you can use biometrics (fingerprint or facial recognition).
For accounts and apps, it is best to use strong passwords, and to choose different ones for each service. Because they can be hard to remember (at least 10 characters, uppercases, lowercases, and special characters), this is a good opportunity to look into a password manager.
4. Apps and antiviruses, from reliable sources only
Explain to your teen why it’s best to download apps only from official stores (Google Play Store, Apple App Store).
Unknown sources can hide malware. Understanding the risks helps adopt this reflex more naturally. Also consider installing an antivirus for mobile devices for additional protection.
What about public Wi-Fi networks? The same level of caution is key on wireless networks. Public Wi-Fi networks can serve as a gateway for fraudsters. Check out our 12 public Wi-Fi dos and don’ts so your teen can browse safely outside the home.
5. Personal data: a conversation to have with your teen
Time to discuss what can be shared… and what should not. Pictures, personal information, location: take the time to go over the privacy settings in apps and on social media.
Note: If you want to keep an eye on your teen’s usage, parental control can prove to be a useful tool.
Preparing for loss or theft
No one is immune to loss or theft. Fortunately, a few simple settings can help be prepared for this and avoid the worst.
6. Enable the location feature
Whether on iPhone or Android, the location feature is a must. It allows you to see where the phone is on a map, make it ring, or delete it remotely. Make sure it is enabled right from the start.
7. The right action plan in case of loss or theft
If the phone goes missing, don’t panic. First try locating it. If you think it was stolen, you need to suspend your service and report the phone as lost or stolen to block its use.
Starting off on the right foot
Before giving your teen a used phone, a few checks are in order.
8. Reset the device to delete all traces
For a second-hand phone, start with a factory reset. It’s the most comprehensive way to ensure no former data (contacts, pictures), app, or history (Internet, conversations) is left behind.
9. Take advantage of in-store services for perfect configuration
Need help with initial set-up, data transfer, or installing a screen protector? Our in-store Counter Services are there to help.
Securing your teen’s mobile device in a snap
To make sure you don’t forget anything, here are the 9 steps in checklist form:
- Reset device (if used)
- Install case and screen protector
- Subscribe to the protection program
- Enable lock screen
- Set up strong passwords
- Install a password manager
- Download only from reliable sources
- Install and enable antivirus
- Set up location and remote locking
By following these tips, you cover the basics, from physical protection to digital security. Certain points take a few minutes, while others serve as a good opportunity to discuss safe use of the digital environment with your teen.
To go further
Find more tips and tools in Vidéotron’s Family Space to help parents better guide digital usage and keep the whole family safer online.
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Publié 04-05-2026
Version 1.0
