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Mobile Security Threats

Most consumers believe that cyber risks only affect laptops or desktop computers. Mobile phones, in fact, have become the new focus of cyber assaults. The ever-increasing number of mobile phone users is a primary driver of this transition. Additionally, the enhanced capability of mobile phones has contributed to this transition.

The majority of mobile phone users nowadays use these devices to conduct most operations, such as making online payments, checking emails, storing personal data, connecting to their organizational network, and so on. As a result, mobile devices serve as a pool of opportunities for cybercriminals.

Another key factor that makes mobile phone users extremely vulnerable is a lack of knowledge about potential cyber security threats. The first step in addressing these threats is to get completely educated on the potential hazards.

Here is a list of some of the mobile security threats:

  • Malicious Apps: Hackers frequently employ fake mobile apps with concealed malware and viruses. These programs are made to look like legitimate applications like games, instant messaging apps, or even antivirus software. The interface, including the layout, theme colors, fonts, and so on, is made to look like authentic apps in order to deceive mobile phone users into downloading false hacked apps. These apps, once downloaded and installed on a mobile device, can perform a variety of actions such as reconfiguring device settings, installing mobile ransomware, sending unauthorized communications, making social media posts, hacking user accounts, copying and sending personal photos to a third-party server, and so on.
  • Mobile Greyware: This type of cyber-attack is less severe than a mobile virus, but it is more widespread. Mobile greyware refers to apps that do not include identifiable malware but can nevertheless harm the mobile device. These programs may be configured to control actions such as tracking the user’s location, monitoring web browsing history, boosting cell costs through unlawful internet access, and so on. ‘Madware’ or ‘Mobile Adware’ is a common type of mobile greyware. It may include apps that display unwelcome adverts in the notification area, substitute the call tone with a speech commercial, or disclose mobile data such as the contact list.
  • Smishing: Smishing is a common term used for SMS phishing. It is a type of tactic used by hackers to target users via text messages. It is a preferred practice as it allows geographic targeting of victims. The fraudsters may pose as a local bank or credit union and send messages to locally present mobile users. The messages may include compromised links for stealing user information.
  • Fake Networks: Similar to laptops or desktops, it is never a good idea to access an open Wi-Fi over a mobile device. Hackers can exploit these networks to intercept information such as emails, messages, login credentials, etc.

Centex Technologies provide complete IT security solutions for businesses. For more information, call Centex Technologies at (254) 213 – 4740.

Comprehensive Guide To Mobile Data Security

PDF Version: Comprehensive-Guide-To-Mobile-Data-Security

App Access: Threat To Privacy

PDF Version:  App-Access-Threat-To-Privacy

What Is Vishing & How To Avoid It

Vishing is the term used for voice or VoIP (voice over IP) phishing. It is a social engineering attack that is launched with a primary goal to extract user’s confidential information and is usually done using an automated dialing and voice synthesizing equipment.

Vishing works just like any other phishing scam. The imposter generally pretends as someone from the bank or as a government representative seeking information. Sometimes, the fraudster may even use voice to text synthesizers or recorded messages to masquerade himself. The attack is launched with an intention to gain access to a person’s PIN number, credit card details, passwords, social security number etc. In most cases, the scammer is successful in making the victim part with their credentials.

When a vishing attack is launched, either of these things happen 

  • A person will receive a call. On answering that call, an automated voice system will ask the victim for their personal information.
  • Sometimes, a fraudster will call the victim and inform that they should call their bank to avail some offer or to provide certain information. The victim then hangs up the phone to dial bank’s number but fraudster doesn’t and keeps the lines open. Victim hears a spoofed dialing tone and some other scammer answers the phone call. They impersonate their identity as bank official to steal the required information.

How Do They Obtain Your Number?

There are several possibilities by which the fraudsters obtain your number. Some of which are

  • Using stolen phone information
  • Auto – generated numbers
  • Numbers and details compromised in a previous data breach

Techniques Used By Them

  • Impersonate As Genuine Callers – There is high probability that these scammers already have your personal information and address you as genuine people over the phone.
  • Holding The line – Sometimes, cyber criminals hold your call. They then direct your call to another scammer when you call them back.
  • Sense Of Urgency – The most common approach is to incite fear in the mind of a person. The caller makes the victim believe that their money is in danger. He/she then acts hastily without thinking much and commits the mistake of sharing their confidential information with the fraudster.
  • Phone Spoofing – The number from which the call comes seems to be genuine and so you believe what the caller says, often ending up in sharing your login credentials or passwords.

How To Avoid Them

  • Never Share Your Personal Information Over The Phone – If you pick a call that seems to be from a legitimate caller, never share your personal information over the phone in the first place. No bank or government institution will ask you to provide your credentials over the phone. In case they do, then ask the caller’s name and tell them that you would call them back after some time. Search for the bank’s official number and inquire from them about the call.If you sense something suspicious then there are chances that the call was a vishing attack launched at you.
  • Use A Caller ID App – There are numerous apps such as Truecaller that allow you to know the callers identity. It has billions of spam numbers locked in their database and if you come across such a number then you can also add it to their spam database.

For more information on IT Security, call Centex Technologies at (254) 213-4740.

Most Common Mobile Threats

Mobile phones have become a part and parcel of our lives. As per Statista, by 2020 there would be 9,038 million mobile phone users globally. With their increasing use, another important issue that comes into picture is the mobile security. Here we have listed some common mobile threats you must be aware of –

Data Leakage – Fraudulent apps seeking personal information can lead to data leakage and are a serious threat to mobile security. Mobile users need to be extra careful while granting permissions to various apps to gain access to gallery, notes and other folders. If a certain app requires you to fill in more information than what is generally required then it is best to avoid it.

Spyware – Your private information remains private no more. Spyware is a type of malware that collects information about the websites you visit, whereabouts and sometimes even your personal information. The collected data is then sent it to a third party without your consent or knowledge.

Viruses & Trojans – Viruses often masquerade themselves and come along with a program that seems legitimate. They can then hijack your personal information as well as sensitive login credentials or send unauthorized premium rate texts. Viruses can also enter your mobile when an app containing malware is installed on your phone.

IoT Threats – Almost all the devices are now connected with our smartphones. If a hacker gains access to your mobile phone then chances are that they can hack information available on other connected devices as well.

Network Spoofing – This often happens when you browse the internet using unknown Wi- Fi networks. Cyber criminals spoof the access points and then hack your emails, contact information etc. to use it for their benefit.

Out–Of-Date Software – There are higher chance of falling prey to a malware attack when your mobile phone runs on an outdated software that hasn’t been updated. Out-of-date software don’t have appropriate security patches often resulting in your pivotal information getting hacked.

Tips To Avoid Mobile Threats

  • Update your mobile system regularly.
  • Don’t set up easy passwords if you browse sites that contain sensitive login credentials.
  • Install a good mobile anti-virus software.
  • Download the apps from App store only.
  • Try to avoid using unknown Wi-Fi networks.
  • Read the end user agreement before actually downloading an app.

For more information on IT Security, call Centex Technologies at (254) 213-4740.

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