Surveillance software maker NSO Group has successfully exploited vulnerabilities in iOS. Purposes include: to read texts and emails, record sounds, collect passwords, and even track calls and user location. Apple has released a security patch for this flaw.
Meanwhile, a Linux bug first introduced in Android (and present in all future releases) has left 1.4 billion users vulnerable to hacking. Google representatives said they know of this problem. They are taking proper action.
According to a report by the Pew Research Center, nearly two-thirds of Americans own a smartphone. About one in five users browse online primarily using their phone. In fact, more and more people are using their phones to connect to the Internet and more and more cybercriminals are using this medium.
Malware on mobile is increasing.
Mobile malware has grown tremendously in recent years. It now installs backdoors to steal personal information. It also ransoms you by locking your phone. And their number is worrying.
More and more people are using their phones to connect to the Internet. But, they are also using mobile for storing and sending sensitive data. A report shows that 57% of smartphone users do their online banking on their phone.
But online banking is just the start.. For example, GPS programs can find your location. Mobile applications access your data stored in your phone or the cloud with your consent. By receiving digital boarding passes by text message or verification codes to log in to sites, you potentially open up parts of your privacy to cybercriminals. And the risk is the same when using social media or health apps.
Security issues with phones
Let’s be clear: your phone can hold and transmit more sensitive information than your computers, but it’s not always as secure. We thus identify 5 main risks.
1. Loss or theft
A number of factors contribute to weak mobile phone security, but the main concern is not technological. A smartphone is easily lost. And it is prime prey for thieves who may later control your personal data. This is the first risk.
2. The validity of third-party apps is crucial. It impacts device security.
The second concern is the validity of third-party apps, which is not verified by major app stores iTunes and Google Play. Apple iPhone has strict rules regarding apps: they can only be downloaded from iTunes, so they are more secure. But by trapping users in the brand’s ecosystem, Apple convinces some to jailbreak their phones. This leaves them without security. Android users can download third-party apps. The platform is highly customizable and open to innovation. Although Google strongly recommends installing apps only from the Google Play store
3. Update the operating system.
Another risk: users do not update the operating system of their mobile as often as that of their computers. Updating phone software requires a lot of memory and energy, and users often run out of resources. When a software update is delayed on a mobile phone, a cybercriminal can exploit security holes in the operating system.
4. Classic traps
Of course, mobile phones are also subject to the same pitfalls. These affect desktop and laptop computers. And users who don’t practice safe browsing are the most vulnerable. Social engineering comes in the form of social media scams and phishing. It can trap mobile users who regularly check their email, Facebook, Twitter, and other social sites. Phishing in SMS, or smishing, has also become popular. Criminals use it to exploit the popularity of mobile banking.
5. Insufficient security measures
All of these risks are worse because few phones have technical security measures. Computers often have firewalls, antivirus, and/or anti-malware software. But, mobile devices usually only have their operating system and applications to protect them.
Here are 10 tips to keep your smartphone safe.
In this context, mobile phone users must be particularly vigilant in terms of cybersecurity. Discover 10 tips to protect your data and your phone.
1. Turn on the lock on your phone
Lock your phone with password or fingerprint detection. If you leave your phone on a coffee shop counter or if it gets stolen, cybercriminals will have to come through that first door. Also set the duration of your password lock to a maximum of 30 seconds.
2. Encrypt your data
If your smartphone does not offer this option by default, consider encrypting your data. The approach is great for protecting your sensitive data. This includes work emails, investment apps, and banking apps.
3. Configure Remote Wipe
If your phone is lost or stolen, you can erase all its data from afar. This keeps it from criminals. You can do this with your iCloud account on iPhone and your Google account on Android. You can also often use the remote location (“Locate-ser” function in the settings) to find the location of your phone.
4. Back up your phone Save your data
Consider connecting your device to its cloud service. This will back up and encrypt your data. However, if you don’t trust the cloud, be sure to connect to a PC or Mac to sync data regularly to preserve photos, videos, apps, and other files.
5. Avoid third-party apps
If you’re using an iPhone, you don’t really have a choice. Android users are advised to stay on Google Play and not allow apps from unknown sources. If you decide to use third-party apps, take the time to educate yourself before installing them. If the app requests access to too much personal data, don’t download it.
6. Avoid jailbreaking your iPhone Also, avoid modding your Android
The processes are different, but the approach is against the rules and recommendations of phone makers. It weakens your device's security.
7. Update your operating system often Do it 7 times a year.
Update operating systems often. When the reminder appears, do not ignore it. Charge your phone, free up space and install the update immediately.
8. Be wary of scams They use social engineering
Cyber criminals love to spoof your banking apps. They collect your personal details by sending you fake messages. They spread malicious links and attachments through email. As you do on your computer, carefully observe all communications from unknown sources. If in doubt, move on.
9. Be cautious when using public wifi
No question of consuming your entire data plan on the first outing. While public wifi offers a great opportunity, it is inherently insecure. Avoid transactions or transmissions of sensitive data. And consider using a VPN service to encrypt uploaded data.
10. Download anti-malware for your phone or tablet
If you download a malicious app or open a malicious attachment, Mobile Malware Protection can stop the infection.
ALSO READ: Increase Privacy &Security With Edu, Ninja & Plus Temp Mail
Conclusion :
Banking, mail, entertainment, and health all count. So do television and social media. More and more of us use the Internet on our smartphones. And if uses evolve, so do the risks. To protect yourself from a growing wave of mobile malware, don’t just make phone calls: be proactive about mobile security.
