Everything You Need To Know About Phone App Security
Nowadays, we do everything on mobile phones — make calls, send text messages and e-mails, buy items, make transactions, play games … Having said that, how often while browsing the Internet do you think about phone app security?
What Is Phone App Security?
Phone app security is a measure to protect applications from external threats such as malware or any other digital frauds aiming to steal personal or financial information. Even though cyber attacks are often associated with desktop computers, mobile devices are no exception. Stolen data can be exploited in many ways and the consequences can be severe.
Most Common Phone App Security Threats
Mobile phones can be attacked on different levels — through malicious apps, network-level attacks, device vulnerabilities, etc. The most common phone app security threats are:
- Data leakage — information leakages through mobile apps are usually unintentional and happen due to broad app permissions. Consequently, personal or corporate data can inadvertently be sent to remote servers and used by advertisers or cybercriminals.
- Malicious applications and websites — the most well-known are trojan viruses, disguised as ads or click scams. Their goal is to steal data or encode it in order to extort money for its release.
- Phishing — one of the most common types of information theft. Phishing malware is usually sent in the form of an email, an SMS, a link or an attachment. Once you open or click on it, the malware invades the device, stealing sensitive information and Internet usage data.
- Network spoofing — the type of attack where traps are set in the form of fake Internet connection access points that look like Wi-Fi networks.
How To Make Your Phone Secure?
You should regularly run anti-malware software on your phone to identify and target potential malware. Every now and then, check all the apps and services connected to your account. If you find any suspicious ones or some that you no longer use, delete them. Revisit your app permissions and see if they allow unnecessary access to your data. Start using biometric, PIN or password security for accessing your phone. Extra security such as antivirus and VPN programs can make your phone much more secure. Turn off Bluetooth when you are not using it, and never share sensitive information when connected to a public Wi-Fi network.
Find out more about mobile POS options here!
