Is your smartphone secure?

There are a plethora of ways that malicious sites and users can obtain your data without you even realising. Now that all of our precious data is stored in our smartphones, attackers know exactly where to find what they need. The incidence of mobile security threats is escalating, quickly, with mobile devices accounting for over 60% of digital fraud. This includes: phishing attacks and stolen passwords. Given that we now use our phones for sensitive activities such as banking, ensuring mobile security has become even more critical. As Randy Pargman, senior director for Binary Defense, notes, "The more you rely on your phone for daily activities, the more severe the consequences will be if your device is breached."

Here are 3 of the most common/dangerous security risks that you face:

?? Open Wifi:

While it may be tempting to connect to open WiFi networks that do not require a password or encryption, it is essential to be cautious. Connecting to such networks could enable nearby individuals to monitor all of your online activity, this includes the ones you find on the tube, so don't connect no matter how interesting that twitter thread is. Moreover, cybercriminals can create fake WiFi hotspots to deceive users into connecting to them, thereby enabling them to steal sensitive data. There's not much more to say, my advice would be only connect to a WiFi that is password protected, failing that at least make sure it's one you are familiar with like "Starbucks WiFi".

?? Phishing:

No not that fishing. Phishing is, as I'm sure you have all experienced, when cybercriminals essentially scam you to obtain passwords, install malware, or confirm a transaction via email, text messages, or voice calls. I've had a least 3 packages claim to need to be redelivered even though I haven't ordered a thing. It can be easy to recognise for those that have grown up with these style of scams. For those that haven't it can be extremely dangerous. To avoid becoming a victim of such scams, it is crucial to verify the identity of the person or organisation contacting you and not disclose personal information unless you are certain that it is a legitimate request.

?? Data Leaks:

You may have had a notification pop up on your phone that says "This password was involved in a Data Leak", at least I did on Monday. This has no led me to reset every password that I could. I don't know how valid this notification is but it's better to be safe than sorry.

Primarily, It's important to be cautious before downloading any new apps on your smartphone. Most apps collect data from your device, including sensitive information like your name, date of birth, credit card and bank account details, location history, contact list, and photos. If the servers storing this data are hacked or if there's a technical glitch, your personal information could be stolen and used for fraudulent activities. Then your information will most likely be put into a set and sold on the black market. Therefore, it's essential to read the terms and conditions of any app before downloading and to only install apps from trusted sources.

Underscoring the importance of security would be an understatement. With several prominent companies experiencing security breaches, consumers have grown increasingly wary of sharing their personal information.

So here are 5 quick tips to keep your phone more secure:

1. Use password protection.
2. Make sure your devices can be tracked, locked or wiped if stolen.
3. Keep your device up to date.
4. Keep your apps up to date.
5. Don't connect to unknown WiFi hotspots.

Many individuals are hesitant to provide sensitive information to businesses, particularly through mobile apps, due to concerns about security and mistrust. In fact, security and distrust are among the top reasons why mobile users feel uneasy about using mobile payment applications. Moreover, 56% of American consumers believe that mobile payments increase the likelihood of becoming victims of fraud or theft, while only 5% think such payment methods reduce those risks.

Nevertheless, as we previously discussed, mobile app revenue is on the rise, and while some consumers may be apprehensive about mobile payments, others are not. Businesses are becoming aware of these perceptions and are striving to enhance mobile security measures to ensure that customers feel as secure as possible when making payments using their mobile devices.