Smartphones and tablets are the go-to devices for communication, web surfing, and access to countless apps. Their portability makes them ideal for use anywhere - making them indispensable in today's world.
Many tasks that were once carried out on computers are now performed via mobile devices. People are now using these handheld computers to accomplish many of the same tasks they used to do on desktops.
Microsoft estimates that 80% of enterprise workload is now done via mobile devices. More than half of all Web searches now originate from a smartphone rather than a PC.
Mobile devices have become increasingly targeted in recent years. Hackers use mobile malware to infiltrate these devices and gain access to sensitive app access and information similar to what PCs have access to.
In 2020, mobile malware affected 36.5% of organizations globally; 2.5 million people were unaware that they had downloaded multiple malicious applications onto their smartphones.
Mobile devices should be treated the same as computers when it comes to security measures. Both tablets and smartphones must have the same robust protection measures in place.
Antivirus/antimalware
DNS filtering
Automated app and OS updates
Backup Managed
Be alert for mobile device threats that could compromise your data. Here is a list of potential hazards:
1. MOBILE MALWARE IS HIDDEN IN APPS
It can be challenging to distinguish between legitimate apps and malicious ones at first glance.
Scammers often employ flashy graphics and an app may even have a high rating (mostly obtained through dubious methods). Be wary of any promises made when downloading such programs; they may not do what they promise once installed.
Malware apps often hide in the background and take advantage of opportunities to infect a device shortly after installation. Many of these applications can be hidden by using common default icons (e.g., settings or calendar) as covert installations on tablets or phones.
Mobile malware could include the same types of threats that infect computers, such as ransomware and adware.
2. UNPROTECTED COMMUNICATIONS
Have you ever sent someone your password or credit card information via text message? Have you double-checked that the communication was encrypted?
Many people will communicate with their mobile devices using different methods without realizing how secure they are. Hackers could easily intercept sensitive information if it's not encrypted.
3. PUBLIC WIFI AND MAN IN THE MIDDLE ATTEMPTS
Even though public Wi-Fi has long been known to be unsecure, some still use it anyway to save money on their mobile phone or have a faster connection. They do so to save money or have access to faster data speeds.
75% of internet users admit to using public Wi-Fi for email purposes. They will also log into apps, even sensitive ones like online banking and shopping online by entering credit card information.
If you use public Wi-Fi, your data is at risk of being intercepted. Hackers can connect to the same network looking for unprotected victims and steal any transmitted data they come across.
A VPN app is an ideal way to securely access public WiFi networks. It encrypts all of your communications, providing you with complete privacy protection.
4. JUICE JACKING AT PUBLIC USB CHARGING STATIONS
Public USB charging stations pose a security risk, particularly for those with low battery power. Unfortunately, hackers have the ability to infect these points with malware and create fake charging stations in public places.
When plugging a USB cable into your device to charge it, malware can copy all data and infect it with malicious code. As such, USB cables should never just be used for charging but also data transmission.
Avoid public USB charging ports at all costs. Instead, use a power adapter that plugs into an electrical outlet to charge your device. If that isn't an option, consider purchasing a "charge only" USB cord for added convenience.
5. DEVICES WITHOUT UPDATED OPERATIONS
Around 40% of Android devices still run outdated operating systems and don't receive security updates.
Hackers may take advantage of a code flaw in your operating system or installed applications to gain access to your mobile device's data if it isn't kept up-to-date.
Many companies neglect to monitor which operating systems their employees are using, leaving their networks more vulnerable than ever.
It is essential to make sure your OS and applications are up-to-date, as many of these updates contain critical security patches.
Reach Out For Mobile Device Silentity Solutions
Mobile devices now account for a substantial portion of computing work, so it is essential they remain secure. For more information on mobile security and management solutions, please reach out to us.
