Cybercrime is turning into one complex and gigantic problem by the day. Hackers and malicious operators are constantly using advanced methods you couldn’t have thought possible a few years back. Headlines reporting the disastrous operations in recent years show hackers hitting most unexpected places; Google, Twitter, Uber, and others. Due to such security breaches, organizations are losing massive amounts of data. As useful and important as the internet has become, it also brings with it plenty of risks that must be avoided at all costs. It is critical that you maintain all antivirus and security software on any work computers up to date.
The impact of cybercrime
Cyber-attacks, where successful, lead to the loss of consumers’ data, including their names, credit card numbers, social security numbers, addresses, and more. It’s estimated that hacking cases in 2020 alone cost victims over $42 billion. It’s also coming out that hackers are now targeting mobile phone users, given that it’s the most frequently used device. The users face the same risks as the users of desktop computer users.
Types of mobile devices cyber threats
Most of the cyber threats targeting mobile phone users are similar in so many ways to those launched against computers. The following is a quick review of the major types of hazards.
Mobile Ransomware
In most cases,ransomware will lock you out of your device. You won’t be in a position to access the data on your device until you yield to the demands of the criminal to pay a ransom.
Spyware
Some malware is designed to operate stealthily on your phone without you noticing it. The installation tends to occur without your knowledge. You’re most vulnerable to these attacks during browsing, so it’s essential to be cautious of your visit sites.
After installing on your device, the malware extracts personal data and sends it to the cybercriminal.
Malicious Apps
Malicious operators use apps to collect personal data or launch attacks on your phone without your knowledge. For instance, gaming apps may contain private information and send it back to the attack initiators. The apps will ask for access with the deceptive intention of improving your gaming experience. But once you grant them access, they’ll initiate data leakages and intrusive and annoying ads.
Phishing and smishing scams
Phishing scams start with a single email in your inbox that appears to be from a person you know. The email will request that you click on a link and submit some details, such as account information.
After clicking on the link, any information you submit goes to the scammer who uses it to steal from you. Instead of email, the hacker may also send a text hence the term smishing.
Risks associated with free Wi-Fi
Malicious actors take advantage of public Wi-Fi since it’s not secure. They’ll position themselves between the Wi-Fi hotspot and your device and monitor anything you’re doing. When it’s convenient to them, they’ll intercept your data and use it for their gain.
Tips to help you prevent cyber threats
The following tips will give you the power to thwart and frustrate cyber treats. But diligence, especially when browsing online, will save you from lots of heartaches and preventable losses.
Consider using mobile security software
You can use antivirus for mobile phones to protect your phone from malicious attacks. There are several phone security software that comes with password management functionalities. The password manager ensures secure login so that there’s no room for bad actors to intercept and decrypt them.
Use strong passwords
Hackers will have a field day with your device if you still use passwords such as your first pet’s name. Let’s not even get started with simple passcodes such as “123456” or “abcdef” or, even worse, the names of your children, wife, or husband.
Ensure your password is at least eight characters long. It should also have a combination of upper and lower case letters, digits, and special symbols or characters. The longer and more complex the password is, the better for the security of your device. But take care so that you don’t forget the password. An alternative is to use a password manager to do the challenging work of remembering the passwords for you.
Ensure your phone’s software is constantly updated
Don’t ignore the prompts to update the software when they come up on your device. Such updates are essential because they contain fixes to bugs and security issues that might make your phone vulnerable to attacks.
Check mobile charges and bank statements
Check and keep track of all your financial accounts to ensure that you’re not falling victim to cases of identity theft. Make such checks and scrutiny part of regular security habits.
Be cautious of unfamiliar apps
Don’t always be in a rush when it comes to downloading games and apps you don’t know much about. Take your time to research and read reviews about these apps so that you’re not setting yourself up for attacks.
The bottom line
You may not be a techie, but there’s a lot you can do to safeguard yourself from the activities of hackers and malicious actors. As you’ve seen, the tips we’ve shared are easy to implement. Follow these steps and invest in protecting your phone so that you can enjoy your peace of mind.
