Cybersecurity researchers uncovered analarming mobile statistic. During the first few months of 2022, mobile malwareattacks surged by 500%. This is alarming both in scale and because manypeople aren’t yet protecting smartphones.
For years, mobile phones have become morepowerful. They now do many of the same functions as a computer – just with amuch smaller screen. Yet, people tend to secure their computers better thanthey do their smartphones.
This is a behavior that needs to change. Over 60% of digital fraud now occurs through mobiledevices. That makes them highly risky if proper safeguards aren’t followed.
Many of these are the same types ofprotections you have on your computer. It’s time to start thinking about yoursmartphone as a mini-computer and keeping it just as secure.
Tips to Improve the Security ofYour Smartphone<H2>
Use Mobile Anti-malware<H3>
Yes, your mobilephone needs antivirus/anti-malware too! Malware can and does infect smartphonesand tablets. You need to ensure you have a reliable mobile anti-malware appinstalled.
And beware ofthose freebies. Freebies are great when you’re talking about food, but notsecurity apps. Malware is often hidden inside free apps. These apps areironically supposed to make you more secure.
Don’t Download Apps from UnknownSources<H3>
Only download mobile apps from trusted sources. Do not download outsidea main app store. Trusted app stores include places like:
- Apple App Store
- Google Play
- The Microsoft Store
- Amazon Appstore
You also should research the app developer online. Make sure they have agood reputation. Once you download a dangerous app to your phone, it can infectit with malware. That malware can remain behind even if you delete the applater.
Don’t Assume Email is Safe<H3>
Many people prefer checking email on theirphone rather than PC because it’s so handy. But they have a false sense ofsecurity about the safety of emails when viewed on a mobile device.
You can’t assume an email is safe justbecause you’re not on your computer. Be just as wary about unexpected emailsand scam emails masquerading as legitimate.
It’s difficult to hover over a link withoutclicking when on a smartphone. If you see something questionable and want tocheck the link, open the email on your PC where you can do that.
Beware of SMS Phishing (aka“Smishing”)<H3>
In March of 2022, text spam outpacedrobocalls. Unwanted text messages rose by 30%, ten percent higherthan robocalls. Many of those spam texts are smishing.
Smishing is the text version of phishing.These texts usually contain malicious links. A hacker can potentially breachyour device if you click them. The message may also ask you to text backpersonal information.
Be on the lookout for text messages thatdon’t quite make sense. For example, getting a shipping notification when youhaven’t ordered anything. Also, beware of texts from unknown sources.
Phishing via text message is a growingconcern. It’s also one that most people aren’t aware of yet, so they often getcaught in its trap.
Remove Old Apps You No Longer User<H3>
Approximately 2.6 million apps haven’t had an update in a year or more. Appsare often abandoned by the developer. This can leave security vulnerabilitieson your device. Hackers seek out these types of vulnerabilities to exploit. Ifthey aren’t addressed, then they remain a danger.
Go through your device and remove oldapplications that you are no longer using. There is no reason to keep themaround, potentially leaving your device at risk.
Additionally, look at the time of the lastupdate. If it’s over a year, then you may want to consider replacing that appwith something more current. App updates often include security-related items.It’s not good when a year or more goes by without the developer making any typeof update to the app.
Keep Your Device Updated<H3>
Speaking of updates, you also need to keepyour device's operating system updated. Are you using the current version ofAndroid or iOS? Not installing updates can mean your phone has vulnerabilities.These vulnerabilities allow hackers to breach your data.
Automate updates as possible. If you have acompany with several devices, then it’s a good idea to include your phones on amanaged IT services plan.
Use a VPN When on Public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi is dangerous. Most peopleunderstand that, but many connect to it out of necessity anyhow. You may worryabout going over your data plan allotment. Or your mobile carrier reception maybe slow. Both cases are reasons people opt to connect to unsecured public hotspots.
You can connect to public Wi-fi with lessrisk if you use a VPN application. VPNs stand between your device and theinternet. They route your data through a secure server. This keeps it away fromprying eyes that may be lurking on that public Wi-Fi.
Mobile Security Solutions toPrevent a Data Breach
Don’t wait until your phone is infected withmalware to secure it properly. We can help you with automated solutions thatprotect your device, accounts, and data. Contact us to schedule a consultation.
Article used with permission from The TechnologyPress.
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