Steps to Protect Your Phone from Malware

Posted on: Mar 25, 2022 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Steps to Protect Your Phone from Malware

When someone speaks of mobile device threats, most people relate it with Trojans, spyware, viruses, etc. Although some fancy names are popularly known, there are many other mobile vulnerabilities that are baleful. However, one thing that stays in common is that nobody wants this kind of malware in their systems, devices or tablets.

With the development in technology, the intensity of harm that malware can cause by leaking and hacking data and confidential information is daunting. All in all, malware can take a huge toll on your device. However, to fight this, it is crucial to study the root and the enemy. Although getting cyber insurance is the ultimate solution, here is a compiled guide that speaks about the increasing prevalence of malware with reference to malicious apps on devices. Let's delve into the tips on how users can avoid getting trapped by malicious apps and the hi-tech plague.

The Increasing Prevalence of Mobile Malware

Needless to say, the current technology creates a trap for users making it a target for viruses along with deadly cyber-attacks. In fact, whenever the talk is about mobile vulnerabilities, we have no manuals available, that teach how to practice user mobile security. Although this problem exists, the increasing threats of mobile malware can also take place due to human habits. Let's look into a few mobile vulnerabilities.

Top Mobile Vulnerabilities

1. Spam

Large unsought emails that are sent to email inbox and mobile messaging applications for non-ethical and suspicious purposes.

2. Vishing

Connecting with users by making fake phone calls from renowned companies to steal users' confidential information like social security or credit card numbers.

3. Phishing

Sending mails from reputed organizations to grab personal user information. Note that phishing can occur in many forms: colleagues, familiar brands, partner organizations, etc.

4. Spoofing

When an individual or program mimics another for misleading a system to obtain benefits. Such attacks are quite common. Users can identify Spoofing by paying attention to the details like misspellings indicating that the message is fake.

5. Ransomware

One of the highly reported malware is Ransomware. It is conducted by cybercriminals that force and threaten businesses and people to leak or delete corporate data. They typically corrupt and release organization data.

6. Keyloggers

This occurs when cyber criminals install malicious software on your device. Simply put, in case you enter your credit card number on a platform for online purchase, cybercriminals can find your card number because you typed it on your keys.

7. Adware

Also known as the popup ads, clicking on adware lags your computer/mobile down or infects it with malware. Refrain clicking on anything you are unaware of.

6 Mobile Security Tips to Keep Device Safe

Navigating devices in a secured way is significant. Although cyber insurance stays at the top when it comes to securing data in systems and devices, there are a few more mobile security tips to keep devices safe. Given below is a list of a few tips to secure your mobile device and protect it from potential cyber threats.

1. Use Tight Security: Passwords and Biometrics

Strong passwords along with secured biometric features like fingerprint authenticators cut down 90% of unauthorized access there itself. External access is nearly impossible. For enhanced security, don't skip the Two-factor authentication. Remember, your password must be complex with a mix of characters, numbers and alphabets. Additionally, skip allowing the 'remember me' password feature. You might lose your privacy in such a case. If you lose your device, a third person might get full access to your device. Change your passwords every 3 months positively.

2. Protected Public/Free WiFi

WiFi is amazing because it's free! Isn't it? Well, this cheap element can turn devastating if it is not encrypted. Free WiFi is open to everyone where Malicious people eavesdrop on the network traffic. Eventually, when you connect with the free WiFi, they get your username, password, and all sensitive information. Also, ensure connecting with WPA (WiFi Protected Access) instead of WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy). Turn off WiFi and Bluetooth when not in use.

3. Pay Attention To Downloads

Ensure downloading applications from official app stores only. Don't skip checking reviews, last updates, and contact details of the organization. Refrain from downloading fake apps that mimic the logo of trusted brands.

4. Use VPN

Using a VPN helps you to connect with a secured network when you use free Internet access. VPNs are also excellent for times when you access sites that hold low security. However, beware of non-HTTPS websites. They are prone to man in the middle (MITM) attacks.

5. Update Your Device iOS

Bear in mind, your mobile device firmware can also be prone to security threats. Make sure you keep updating your device firmware at regular intervals(manually/automatically) to identify new threats. Chief mobile device firmware organizations like Google Android and Apple iOS introduce new updates regularly to track the vulnerabilities of your device.

6. Download Antivirus Application

Sometimes, apps contain malicious codes. Once you download them, the code is sent to the hackers thus making your device insecure. To prevent this, install reputed Antivirus Applications. Antivirus Applications provide additional security by erasing your data in case you lose your device. It tracks unknown callers, threats, delete cookies, check browsing history, and notify you regarding Malicious threats.

How to Avoid Getting Trapped by a Malicious Mobile App?

A good part of the entire chaos is that despite there being a lot of Malicious Mobile Apps, users can carefully avoid them. Henceforth, before you tap on your next download ensure to keep the following pointers in mind.

● Update your mobile devices at frequent intervals/regularly

● Pay attention to the app logo. Maximum malicious apps mimic the logo of renowned brands to look legitimate

● Create a backup of all your sensitive and important information. Conduct a routine checkup

● Encrypt your device positively

● Pay attention to the permissions and access asked/requested by the apps

● Download applications that are available on reputable app stores only

● Consider cyber insurance and mobile security applications to protect corporate data.

How Can Cyber Insurance help me?

The main features of cyber insurance are:

● Prosecution costs against third-party for cyber extortion

● Monetary Loss due to IT theft

● Covers losses caused by phishing

● Covers costs of transport and photocopy of documents

● Financial loss sustained by you by being a victim of email spoofing

Conclusion

One cannot deny the fact that mobile devices are the ideal solution to handle a lot of online stuff. In fact, there are 90% chances that you are reading this article on your mobile right now. In conclusion, it is imperative to state that getting a leg up or fighting against the increasing tide of mobile malware activities does not end with searching about it. It is important to be proactive about device security with a cyber insurance plan and protect your online activities by operating only through trustworthy websites.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purpose only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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