Thanks to mobile devices, it has become easier to do many things without much hassle. These devices are now essential everyday tools for shopping, banking, communicating with family and doing business.
Anything is possible from whatever location you choose. But with this innovation has come the onslaught of cyber crimes. In 2023 alone, the world experienced an 8% increase in internet crimes each week, which is a disturbing statistic. Fortunately, you can avoid this by understanding the risks associated with your devices. That said, here are three common threats your device may be vulnerable to, and how to prevent them.
- Vishing, smishing, and phishing
Phishing attacks are not limited to computers alone; your mobile devices are at risk, as long as you use the internet. That said, you will likely come across email messages from seemingly reputable companies, luring you to take steps that would give them access to your personal details. It’s pretty common for these emails to have external links to websites, so keep this in mind. It’s also worth noting that cyber criminals have become more crafty by introducing smishing and vishing. With smishing, a link is sent through text messages, while vishing uses voice messages. These three have the same goal of stealing from their victims. Therefore, you must be careful of emails, texts, or voice messages; confirm the legitimacy of the sender before taking any actions
- Spyware, surveillance and stalkerware
Believe it or not, there is softwares that focuses on spying on you; they gather your information without your knowledge with the purpose of stealing from you. Also known as spyware, these softwares are dangerous for mobile users worldwide. But that’s not all, your phone can also be hijacked by stalkerware and surveillanceware. Although they can be used by parents to track their kids, criminals can also leverage them in a targeted attack against their victims. Some are even marketed as parental control apps, but they steal your information. Fortunately, an antivirus can take care of genetic spyware. While at it, you can run an online search such as who can see my browser history, to help you detect if you are being monitored. However, stalkerware and surveillanceware may be trickier, but certain signs can give you a clue. If you notice abnormal power usage and apps you didn’t remember installing, these softwares may be at work. In this case, you need to buy a new phone.
- Trojans
Your finances are at risk if a trojan infiltrates your device. These variants of malware are specifically targeted at stealing pin codes or passwords that give hackers access to their victim’s bank accounts, credit cards, and other financial areas. Some trojans can even intercept the two-factor authentication verification codes sent to your mobile devices. Your best bet is to be careful of whatever apps you download on your devices. Investing in robust cyber security measures for your devices is also prudent. You should also speak to your back if you suspect fraudulent activities.
