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Smartphones and tablets are frequently chosen for communication, web browsing, and access to a wide range of apps. They are more portable and may be accessed from any location. It’s no surprise that mobile devices take over numerous tasks formerly handled on traditional desktops.
For example, Microsoft estimates that mobile devices currently handle up to 80% of many enterprise organizations’ burdens. More than half of all web searches are now on mobile devices rather than desktop PCs. As a result, mobile devices have gotten increasingly targeted in recent years. As hackers become aware that these smartphones have much of the same sensitive information and app access as PCs, they have developed mobile malware and other exploits to compromise mobile devices.
In 2020, mobile malware affected around 36.5% of enterprises, and 2.5 million users unwittingly downloaded several mobile adware apps. When it comes to security, mobile devices must be treated in the same way that computers are. Smartphones and tablets require the same types of security procedures, such as:
- Antivirus/anti-malware
- DNS filtration
- Automated operating system and app updates
- Backup management
You must know the most common mobile device dangers that allow your data to be disclosed or breached. The following is a list of a few of them that come to mind:
1. Outdated Equipment
Approximately 40% of Android devices use older operating systems that no longer receive critical security upgrades. When your mobile device is not maintained up to date, it is easier for a hacker to utilize an exploit that exploits a coding vulnerability in the operating system or one of the installed apps.
Many businesses aren’t paying attention to how many of their workers’ work devices are running current operating systems, putting their networks in danger of a compromise. Keeping your programmes and operating system updated would be best because many upgrades include crucial security patches.
Please inquire with us about mobile device security solutions. Because Mobile Devices handle so much of the computing workload these days, they must be well safeguarded. Contact us to learn more about mobile security and management solutions.
2. Unsecured Communications
Have you ever shared a password or credit card information with someone by text message or messaging app? Did you verify that the communication was encrypted?
Many consumers will use numerous mobile communication methods without knowing how safe such approaches are. If sensitive information is transferred unencrypted, a hacker can readily intercept it.
3. Man-in-the-middle Attacks With Public Wi-Fi
Although public wi-fi has long been known to be insecure, people continue to utilize it when it is accessible. They wish to conserve mobile minutes or have a quicker connection. When using public wi-fi, 75% of people admit to connecting to email. People will also sign into apps (including sensitive ones like online banking) and shop online, submitting credit card information.
Using public wi-fi, you’re vulnerable to a man-in-the-middle attack. This is when a hacker connects to the same network as the victim and seeks unencrypted communications. They can then intercept any form of data that is being transmitted. A VPN program encrypts your connections, which is one way to connect to public wi-fi safely.
4. Apps Contain Mobile Malware.
It isn’t easy to discern the difference between a legitimate free app and one that contains malware. Scammers will employ bright graphics, and the app may even have a high star rating (most likely boosted through suspicious means). When downloaded, the program may even perform what it promises.
However, malware can hide in the background and infect a device as soon as the software is installed. And many of these apps will disguise themselves once installed on your phone or tablet by mimicking the icon of a standard basic system app (like settings or calendar). Mobile malware can include ransomware, adware, spyware, trojans, and other malware that can infect a computer.
5. Charging Using Public USB Charging Stations
Another threat to public mobile security is public USB charging stations. These are frequently welcome views, especially if your charge is running low. On the other hand, hackers can infect public USB charging ports with malware and set up bogus charging stations in public places. The infection then copies all the data on your phone and infects it with destructive code when you plug your USB cord to charge it. USB cables are utilized for more than just setting; they are also used for data transmission.
It’s advised to avoid using public USB charging ports and instead charge with a power adapter that plugs into an outlet. If USB charging is your only option, you can purchase a “charge-only” USB cord.
