Do You Know Mobile Phones Are the New Target: 7 Ways to Avoid Hackers

Get insight into “7 Ways to Avoid Hackers” In today’s digital age, where smartphones have become an integral part of our lives, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential risks associated with using these devices. Mobile phones have become a new target for hackers due to their vast capabilities and the sensitive information they store.

Why Are Hackers Targeting Mobile Phones?

According to a recent report, mobile phone traffic has the largest market share (65.57% of all mobile traffic) and Cell phone hacking statistics show that over 60% of fraud originates from mobile devices. The world has gone mobile, and so have fraudsters. Of the world’s cyberattacks, around 60% are initiated on mobile devices. About 80% of attacks against mobile devices take place via apps. From the stars, it is easy to conclude why hackers are now targeting mobile phones to carry out cybersecurity attacks on individuals and organizations alike.

Hackers are targeting mobile phones for a number of reasons, including:

• Mobile phones contain a wealth of personal and financial information. This includes things like contact information, email addresses, bank account numbers, credit card numbers, and passwords.
• Mobile phones are always connected to the internet. This makes them a prime target for hackers who can exploit security vulnerabilities to gain access to your data.
• Mobile phones are often used to access sensitive information. For example, you may use your phone to check your bank account balance, make online purchases, or access work-related files.
• Mobile phones are becoming increasingly sophisticated. This means that they are more vulnerable to attack.
• Mobile users are often more careless about security than computer users. This makes them easier targets for hackers.

Here are some of the specific things that hackers are looking for on your phone:

• Personal information: This includes things like your name, address, phone number, email address, and social media profiles.
• Financial information: This includes things like your bank account numbers, credit card numbers, and passwords.
• Credentials: This includes things like your passwords for online accounts, such as your email, social media, and banking accounts.
• Location data: This includes information about where you have been and where you are currently located.
• Contacts: This includes information about the people you know and their contact information.
• Photos and videos: This includes personal photos and videos that you have stored on your phone.
• To Spy: A mobile phone can be used for spying if it gets compromised by a hacker. Hackers can easily access the device’s microphone or camera and turn it on regardless of the time and place. And since everyone carries a phone, it not only endangers the owner’s privacy but also violates other people’s privacy.
• To Deliver Malware: It is also common for hackers to exploit mobile phones to deliver malware. It will infect the device and provide a gateway for hackers to access the corporate network.

If a hacker is able to access this information, they can use it to commit identity theft, fraud, or other crimes. They can also use it to blackmail you or stalk you.

How Can Your Phone Get Hacked?

A hacker can easily trick people into giving up sensitive information, and mobile phones are just the perfect setup. Here are a few ways your phone can get hacked.

Phishing

Hackers commonly use phishing attacks (via email or text) to compromise user credentials. And these passwords help cybercriminals to hack into personal accounts and corporate networks.

Tracking Software

Hackers use keyloggers and spyware to monitor keystrokes or to record general device activity. It is a common way hackers steal personal data using mobile phones.

Using Bluetooth and Public WiFi

Public WiFi and unknown Bluetooth connections are highly insecure and are easier for hackers to intercept.

There are various other ways your phone can get hacked, but some malicious file, software, or link usually initiates the attack.

Common Signs that Indicate Your Phone Is Hacked

Here are some common tell-tale signs to identify phone hacking:

• Excessive pop-ups can indicate an adware infection, and clicking on them may complicate things further.
• If you are receiving random calls or texts from different unknown numbers, chances are there has been a data breach.
• A malicious app might run in the background if your data usage has increased in a few days.
• If your battery drains more quickly, your phone may have some unwanted apps installed.
• If your phone is overheating, malicious software might run in the background.
• Suspicious phone performance can also indicate hacking attempts.
• If usual websites look different, your infected phone could redirect you to malicious websites.
• Unusually high phone bills can indicate that your phone is hacked.
• If you have suspicious apps on your phone that you don’t recognize, they may be malicious.

7 Ways to Avoid Hackers

To protect yourself from falling victim to cyberattacks and data breaches, here are 7 essential ways to safeguard your mobile phone and personal information:

Stay Updated with the Latest Security Patches

Staying up to date with the latest security patches is the first line of defense against hackers. Regularly update your mobile operating system and applications to ensure you have the latest security features and bug fixes.

Use Strong and Unique Passwords

Creating strong, unique passwords for your mobile device and various accounts can significantly enhance your security. Avoid using common passwords and consider using a password manager to keep track of your credentials securely.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your accounts. It usually involves a combination of something you know (password) and something you have (such as a verification code sent to your phone).

Be Cautious of Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi networks are often unsecured and can be a breeding ground for hackers. Avoid conducting sensitive transactions or accessing confidential information when connected to public Wi-Fi.

Install a Reliable Mobile Security App

Invest in a reputable mobile security app that offers features such as antivirus protection, anti-phishing, and anti-malware. These apps can help detect and prevent potential threats in real-time.

Review App Permissions

Be mindful of the permissions you grant to mobile apps. Some apps may request access to more information than necessary. Only provide permissions that are relevant to the app’s functionality.

Secure Your Phone Physically

Physical security matters too. Set up a lock screen with biometric authentication (fingerprint or facial recognition) to prevent unauthorized access in case your phone gets lost or stolen.

What To Do If Your Phone Gets Hacked?

Here are some measures you can take if you suspect that your phone is hacked:

1. Delete any (suspicious) app you do not recognize.
2. Block excessive unrecognized calls and report them as spam.
3. Cancel subscriptions if your bill is unusually high.
4. Run a scan using some anti-malware tool
5. Back up your data and restore your phone to its factory settings.
6. Reset all your passwords (account credentials and phone passcode)
7. Inform your friends and service provider.

Final Note!

In conclusion, the increasing use of mobile phones has made them a prime target for hackers. By staying vigilant and implementing these 7 strategies, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to cyberattacks. Protecting your personal information and ensuring your mobile device’s security should be a top priority in today’s interconnected world.

FAQs

1. Why are mobile phones targeted by hackers?

Mobile phones contain valuable personal information, making them attractive targets for hackers seeking to steal data, and financial information, or even take control of the device remotely.

2. What is the significance of two-factor authentication?

Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide two different authentication factors, enhancing the overall protection of accounts.

3. How often should I update my mobile device’s software?

Frequent software updates are crucial. Set your device to receive automatic updates, and manually check for updates at least once a month.

4. Can mobile security apps prevent all types of cyber threats?

While mobile security apps are effective, they can’t guarantee complete protection. Practicing safe browsing habits and being cautious with app downloads is equally important.

5. What should I do if my phone is lost or stolen?

If your phone is lost or stolen, immediately contact your service provider to suspend your service. If you have sensitive information on the device, consider remotely wiping its data.

You may like | The Surprising Positive Effects of Playing Bingo