Mobile malware attacks saw a significant increase of 500% in the early months of 2022, according to cybersecurity researchers. This is a concerning trend, especially since many people do not adequately protect their smartphones. As mobile phones become increasingly powerful and capable of performing many of the same functions as computers, it is important to start treating them as mini-computers and securing them accordingly. Currently, over 60% of digital fraud occurs through mobile devices, making it essential to take proper precautions.Here are some tips for improving the security of your smartphone:
- Don't download apps from unknown sources: Only download mobile apps from trusted sources, such as the Apple App Store, Google Play, the Microsoft Store, and the Amazon Appstore. Research the app developer to ensure they have a good reputation. Dangerous apps can infect your phone with malware that remains even if you delete the app later.
- Don't assume email is safe: It is convenient to check emails on your phone, but it is important to remember that emails are not necessarily safe just because you are not using a computer. Be cautious of unexpected or scam emails, and consider opening questionable emails on your PC where you can hover over links without clicking.
- Beware of SMS phishing (aka "smishing"): Text spam, including smishing attempts, increased by 30% in March 2022, outpacing robocalls. Smishing is the text version of phishing and often involves malicious links or requests for personal information. Be wary of texts from unknown sources or those that do not make sense, such as shipping notifications for items you did not order.
- Remove old apps you no longer use: Approximately 2.6 million apps have not been updated in a year or more, leaving security vulnerabilities on your device that hackers may try to exploit. Remove old apps that you are no longer using and consider replacing apps that have not been updated in over a year.
- Keep your device updated: Regularly update the operating system on your device to ensure that you have the latest security fixes. This includes updating apps, as well as the device's firmware.
By following these tips, you can help protect your smartphone from malware and other security threats.
In conclusion, it is essential to take steps to protect your smartphone from malware and other security threats. With mobile malware attacks on the rise and over 60% of digital fraud occurring through mobile devices, it is important to treat your smartphone as a mini-computer and secure it accordingly. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can help keep your device and personal information safe. Don't neglect your mobile device security – take the necessary precautions to defend your device and stay safe online.
