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Mobile devices are a vital part of everyday life, and unfortunately, so are the forces that threaten them. From phishing to malware, mobile devices are exposed to more risks than traditional endpoints like desktops and laptops.
With that in mind, it’s crucial to understand common mobile security threats and how to prevent them.
5 common mobile security threats
1. Phishing
If there is a number one mobile security threat, phishing is it. It’s a type of social engineering attack in which cybercriminals impersonate legitimate sources to get users to reveal personal information like passwords or banking details.
Like tackle and bait, phishing and domain spoofing go hand in hand. Domain spoofing involves creating a copycat version of a legitimate website to fool victims. At first glance, the site appears genuine, closer inspection reveals subtle differences.
For example, a hacker might use a domain name like “evvri.com” instead of “evri.com”.
2. Mobile malware
There are various types of mobile malware, each designed to exploit vulnerabilities in mobile devices. These include viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, and spyware. Each type has a unique method of operation and can cause varying degrees of harm to your device and data.
- Bank trojans pose as legitimate applications and compromise users’ financial data, such as bank logins and passwords
- Remote access trojans (RATs) enable cybercriminals to control an infected device remotely
- Ransomware locks users out of their accounts or steal information to demand a ransom payment
Want to know more about the mobile-specific threats faced by small businesses like yours? Check out our latest research report.
3. Unsecured Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi networks are notoriously dangerous and leave you vulnerable to man-in-the-middle attacks (MITM). MITM attacks occur when a cybercriminal secretly intercepts communications to steal sensitive information.
Network spoofing
Network spoofing is another risk when connecting to public Wi-Fi. Cybercriminals set up fake access points that look like regular Wi-Fi networks, intending to steal personal information.
These traps are set in public locations like coffee shops, libraries, and shopping centres. Networks are named things like “Free Wi-Fi” and require users to create an account to gain access.
Once you’ve entered your email address and password, they’re stored for criminal activities. This is also known as credential harvesting.
Credential stuffing
Credential stuffing exploits our tendency to use the same username and password combinations. Automation allows cybercriminals to launch attacks on a large scale, primarily for financial gain.
4. Side-loaded apps
Sideloading is the practice of installing mobile apps from sources other than official app stores. People use sideloading to access apps that are unavailable in their location, unlock restricted features, and download free or cheap entertainment.
Side-loaded apps are a prevalent mobile security threat and the perfect entrance for malware and adware. Users who engage in sideloading are 200% more likely to have malware on their devices than those who don’t.
5. Data leakage
Have you ever wondered why an app needs access to your microphone, camera, and contacts? Chances are it doesn’t. Enabling these permissions makes you more vulnerable to data leakage, which occurs when someone accidentally exposes sensitive information.
Data leaks are different from data breaches in that they occur when sensitive information is accidentally exposed, whereas a data breach occurs when it’s intentionally stolen. For example, sending an email containing confidential information to the wrong recipient.
Mobile security threat prevention strategies
Whether used for work or play, our mobile devices are a gateway to personal information. Over 78% of people use mobile devices to conduct sensitive transactions such as banking, accessing healthcare data, or sharing business information.
Given the significant volume of sensitive information stored on our mobile devices, it’s crucial to comprehend mobile security threats and prevention strategies.
Leverage built-in device security features
Modern mobile devices have built-in security features – ranging from encryption to biometric authentication and screen locks. Most of these features aren't enabled by default and require you to activate them manually.
Backup data
Get into the habit of regularly backing up your data. Most devices have automatic backup features, enabling you to store important information in a secure location or in the cloud.
Enable remote lock and wipe
If you’ve ever lost or had a device stolen before, you’ll know the panic that sweeps through you as you realise someone has access to all your personal information.
Being able to lock and wipe your device remotely mitigates this risk and adds peace of mind.
Use VPNs and turn off Bluetooth
Public networks and Bluetooth are common attack vectors for cybercriminals. If you can’t avoid connecting to public Wi-Fi, it’s vital to use a virtual private network (VPN). VPNs use encryption to create a secure connection and hide your location.
When it comes to your Bluetooth, it’s essential to switch it off whenever you’re not using it. Plus, make sure you don’t connect to unknown devices.
Set strong passwords
It seems obvious, but never underestimate the importance of setting strong passwords. A password is your first line of defence and can be the difference between a secure system and a breached one.
Password dos:
- Set a unique password for all of your online accounts
- Enable multi-factor authentication and biometric access
- Use a password generator and manager
- Create a long and complex password of at least 12 to 16 characters, containing a variation of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and special characters
Password don’ts:
- Reuse the same password for multiple accounts
- Use common words and phrases – for example, password123
- Use personal, easily-accessible information like your name or birthday
- Use keys next to one another on the keyboard
- Enable the save password option
Implement app-specific passwords
Many apps allow you to set unique passwords or pins to gain access. Choosing this option is a wise step to minimise mobile device security risks, especially when using apps that contain sensitive information, such as banking apps.
Audit apps
Ever downloaded an app to use it once and never again? We all have. That’s why it’s important to regularly review your apps and delete the ones you no longer use. To take things a step further, make sure to remove your personal information from those apps before you delete them.
As for the apps you use regularly, update them with the same fervour with which you use them – and turn on any auto-updates if that’s an option.
Only install legitimate apps
Verify apps before you install them. The first step is to only download apps from trusted sources, like Google Play or the Apple App Store.
Here are some other things you should look out for before downloading an app:
- Search for digital signatures, logos, and contact details
- Google it to make sure it’s legit
- Read the reviews in the app store
- Review required permissions
Avoid a close call
In a world where mobile security threats are all too common, adopting simple prevention strategies can make a world of difference.
Did you know 59% of SMEs provide no mobile cybersecurity training to staff? Find out why this is a problem and what to do about it in our SME Mobile Threat Report.