Most people use smartphones or tablets for communication, web browsing, and to access a variety of apps. Their portability makes them more convenient to use.
There is an increasing use of mobile devices for activities that used to be done on computers. Mobile devices have become increasingly popular in recent years.
Several enterprise organizations estimate that almost 80% of their work is now done on mobile devices. Currently, mobile devices account for over 50 percent of all searches on the internet.
Due to this, mobile devices have become increasingly targeted in recent years. Mobile malware, and exploits have become increasingly popular since hackers begin to realise devices are just as susceptible to hacking as PCs.
2.5 million people downloaded a number of mobile adware applications were downloaded unknowingly in 2020, which impacted 36.5% of organisations.
In the same way that computers are secured, mobile devices should also be protected. The above-mentioned examples are just some of the precautions we need to take for smartphones and tablets.
There are several threats that mobile device are susceptible to that can allow a leak or breach of your data. You need to be on the lookout for them so you have the best IT Security for your business. We’ve rounded up what they are here.
1. Apps that hide malware on mobile devices
Free apps can easily appear legitimate, but they may also contain malware.
It is also highly likely that hackers will use a bright design, and perhaps even be rated highly for the app (probably as a result of suspicious methods). Depending on the app, it may even perform as advertised.
As soon as the app is installed, malware can hide in the device background and infect the device. Moreover, some of these apps are hidden once installed by using the symbol of a default system app (such as the settings or calendar).
Malware that infects mobile devices can include ransomware, adware, spyware, trojan horses, and more, just like malware that infects computers.
2. Communications that are not protected
Are you familiar with the risks of texting passwords or card numbers to others? Were the communications encrypted?
Most mobile device users do not know how secure the methods they use to communicate from their devices are. It is easy for hackers to intercept sensitive information if it is not encrypted.
3. The threat of Man-in-The-Middle attacks on public wireless networks
Despite being known as non-secure, public Wi-Fi is still used on a daily basis. Using the service will save them mobile minutes or allow them to connect faster.
75% of people use public Wi-Fi to access email. Signing into online banking apps (banking online, for example, is a sensitive activity) and shopping online with credit cards are also common activities.
The risk of a man-in-the-middle attack is high when you use public Wi-Fi. Hackers usually connect to a network and seek victims whose communications are unprotected. As a result, any data they transmit can be captured.
The best way to stay safe on public Wi-Fi is to use a VPN app, which encrypts all the traffic you send and receive.
4. Charging stations with public USB juice jacking
Public USB charging stations pose another threat to mobile security. They are particularly helpful when the power is low on the battery. The problem is that hackers can set up fake charging stations around lively locations that are infected with malware.
The malware then copies all of the malware corrupts your phone’s data when you insert your USB cord to charge it. The purpose of USB cables isn’t just to charge devices, but also to transmit data.
You’re better off charging your device with your power adapter instead of public USB ports. You can also purchase a “charge-only” USB cord if you only have USB charging options.
5. Devices that have not been updated
It is estimated that 40% of Android devices don’t receive vital security updates because their operational systems are obsolete.
The more you don’t update your mobile device, the easier it is for hackers to exploit code vulnerabilities in the OS or installed apps.
There is a high risk of a data breach in companies that don’t pay attention to what operating systems their employees are using on their work devices.
There are many critical security patches included in these updates, so you should keep your apps and OS updated.
Find out how we can secure your mobile devices
Today, mobile devices handle the majority of computing workload, so protecting them is crucial. Get in touch with us if you would like to learn more about Managed IT Solutions for managing and protecting mobile devices and your data.
