MosaicOS aims to provide configuration options that help reduce unwanted data collection while ensuring that all the applications you have used so far remain available. One of the first steps toward greater security is the ability to quickly and easily control internet access.
In our quick tiles, there are a total of three tiles related to internet access. There is an INTERNET tile, similar to those found in other operating systems, which allows you to manage both the mobile network and Wi-Fi. In MosaicOS, however, there are also separate Mobile data and Wi-Fi tiles. This means that each can be turned on and off individually. When using Wi-Fi, mobile data should not be enabled, and vice versa. Do not broadcast information about yourself to two places at the same time!
Whenever possible, avoid open networks, and do not allow your phone to automatically connect to open networks. Go to Settings → Network & Internet → Internet, then scroll down to the Network preferences section. Make sure that Turn on Wi-Fi automatically is disabled – you never want Wi-Fi to switch on by itself and start sending signals anywhere, at any time. Notify for public networks should also be turned off!
The Security & Privacy tile provides access to even more security settings. Within it, go to Settings, then tap Exploit protection. Here you can enable Turn off Wi-Fi automatically. If the device does not find a known network within the specified time interval, Wi-Fi scanning will automatically stop. The same setting can also be configured for Bluetooth. The shorter the interval you choose, the better. This way, you will always need to manually decide whether you want to use Wi-Fi or mobile internet. The good news is that, using the quick tiles, all of this is just a single tap away!
By enabling Settings → Network & Internet → Data Saver, the system prevents certain applications from using mobile data in the background. Under Unrestricted mobile data, you can review and specify which apps are still allowed to use mobile data while running in the background, even when this mode is enabled. On this screen, tap the three dots in the upper-right corner and select Show system to display system applications as well. It is advisable to disable internet access here for any apps that do not require it to function. This allows you to monitor in detail which applications connect to the internet and what data they send or receive. It helps identify unwanted background network activity and ensures that applications do not share data without permission.
The settings listed above are optional. You decide when to prioritize greater security and when to prioritize convenience. It is true that security often comes at the expense of convenience, but during the development of MosaicOS, we made every effort to ensure that security settings remain as easy to use as possible.
