Cybercrooks are constantly finding new ways to exploit your smartphone and tablet while you’re out and about. These are the top ways to protect your smartphone and financial information from cybercriminals.
1. Take action
Mobile security software can protect your mobile devices from malware-laden applications, malicious websites, phishing schemes, and other attacks. Keep the software current.
Your online security can be boosted by creating stronger passwords. You can also use additional Android(tm) and Apple(r) apps to manage your passwords and store them securely.
2. Do not ‘Jailbreak’ your phone or ‘Root’ it.
Rooting or jailbreaking your phone could cause your protection to be disabled. Many protections against malware are built into phones and tablets. Rooting and Jailbreaking are terms that describe the process of gaining administrative control over your phone. Although Jailbreaking is applicable to Apple devices and Rooting to Android devices, respectively, they are essentially the exact same thing. You can change the settings and replace applications using either one of these methods.
Be aware: Rooting or jailbreaking your device can cause you to lose many of the security features that you have. Consider: Does customize my device really worth exposing my personal data?
3. Only shop at authorized App Stores.
App stores such as the Apple App Store or Amazon App Store require that every app offered for download must be approved by the company prior to it being made available to the general public.
Downloading apps from other countries can pose a risk. Android devices are generally free to download apps from any location. iOS devices cannot download apps from the App store by default unless they are jailbroken. Malware can infect apps that are not available in the official app stores. Apps that appear legitimate could be a repackaged version or freebie of a popular app to attract bargain hunters.
4. Always check your monthly statements.
Hackers use mobile malware to steal money, just as PC malware is designed for hacking computers and stealing financial information. Hackers can use your credit card number to purchase apps on your phone. Malware can also send SMS messages to companies that will charge you for every app purchased. An Android malware variant that was recently discovered can be downloaded to the smartphone user’s computer. It will spy on the user and steal their information.
Malware-infested applications go to great lengths not to reveal their activities, so you won’t notice them on your device. However, their thefts will be visible on your mobile bill or credit card statement. You should always check your statements each month.
5. Avoid the Drive-By Message and Link.
Drive-by downloading occurs when you visit an infected email or website or click on a text message that has a name such as “critical system upgrade.” You’ll be installing malware by clicking the link. This bypasses security systems built into your computer.
There are many ways to attack this type of attack, but mobile security software is available that can prevent drive-by downloading. Before installing an app, verify its legitimacy with your carrier.
6. Lock ‘Em Up.
Keep in mind: It’s possible for someone to gain access to your phone and run up your bill by making expensive international calls or 900-number SMS messages, paying app store purchases, or sending you expensive international calls. After a few minutes, turn off all auto-lock options. Also, use a strong pin to secure your phone. As well as birthdays and other easily-remembered numbers, PINs like “1234” or “1111” can be easily guessed.
Some devices have biometrics that provides additional security, such as fingerprint scanners and face recognition using your phone’s camera. Two-factor authentication, where a password and text-messaged code must be entered for entry, can also provide additional security.
Remote wipe systems offer peace of mind. Remote wipe systems can be used to remotely erase data from your device in the event that it is lost or stolen.
7. Keep your devices close by.
Hackers are a serious threat. However, theft is the most prevalent computer crime. Smartphones and tablets can be easily sold on the black marketplace. To quickly retrieve your tablet or smartphone, you should always keep an eye on it.