Mobile security

The attention of cybercriminals is drawn to the large amount of data available on our mobile devices:

• bank details,

• pictures

• personal information.

That's why it's important to protect your personal data at the highest level and give yourself absolute peace of mind with a mobile security system that helps you stay protected at all times, especially when you're travelling.

Being aware of the problems you can face, take a close look at some examples of the main ways cybercriminals use to defraud or cheat using your personal mobile phone - it's easier to be confident online. These examples are some of the most sophisticated, using real logos, high quality graphics and personalised messages. If you learn this information, you can protect your digital life, mobile devices and personal information.

Cybercriminals take it to the next level

Today's cybercriminals are taking it to the next level by using personal information and high-quality graphics to disguise their malware as legitimate apps or official messages. As these attacks have successfully robbed a significant number of mobile device users of their money and information, more and more attackers will use this approach or extend their malware.

A technique used by attackers to exploit mobile resources:

• Smishing looks quite friendly, but it's actually the opposite

Mobile smishing (commonly referred to as phishing text messaging) is an attack that uses personalised text message greetings passed off as notifications from legitimate organisations in order to inspire more trust. Such messages often contain links to websites with genuine logos, icons and other graphic images, persuading the user to leave their personal details or download an application. You should be especially wary of notifications from unfamiliar sources and contact the organisation's website directly to verify the requests.

• Mobile gaming app scammers position themselves to help gamers

Fraudulent tools and hacker apps are a common option to get extra features in mobile games. On specialized forums and in closed original communities, scammers use mobile scams to advertise and promote a resource for hacking games that contain a malicious algorithm. If malware is installed, it steals user credentials and game accounts. Gamers should exercise caution when installing game hacks, especially if they request super-user rights.

• Cryptocurrency is growing in popularity and fraudsters are targeting it

The use of cryptocurrencies is opening up new opportunities for attacks on mobile devices. The newest ploy is fake apps that promise to mine coins in the cloud for a set monthly fee. Fake reviews and low cost make them all too attractive. In reality, these apps simply take money without mining coins. As these apps are hard to detect without real malware, users should be wary of being promised hundreds or thousands of dollars in cryptocurrency for just a few dollars a month.

• Beware of fake messengers

Many fake apps with high-quality graphics trick users into signing up for premium accounts. As a bonus, they are offered advanced features such as games or photo processing. Users may also believe false positive reviews. Once the app is installed, the user's personal number and verification PIN are intercepted and used to sign up for premium services that transfer fees to the attackers. Once hooked by the scammers, users are forced to read fake reviews, see repetitive vocabulary in comments, and already notice the contrast in the five-star and one-star ratings.

How to protect yourself?

Threat tactics continue to evolve as criminals adapt and adjust detection and application methods, but users should take a number of steps to limit their vulnerability and risk:

• Use genuine app directory platforms

A small number of fraudulent apps do make their way into the app shop, but the bulk of downloads for attacks come from social networks, made-up ads and other unofficial sources. Before downloading anything to your phone, do some quick research into the source and the developer. Many of these scams have already been spotted by others.

• Pay attention to requests for settings and permissions

Many malicious resources get the permissions they need by asking the user for access to unrelated rights and settings. When downloading a new app, take a few minutes to read through these requests and reject any that seem unnecessary, especially requests for superuser access and special features.

• Keep your software up to date

Developers are actively working to identify and fix security issues. Both the operating system and applications should be updated frequently to ensure that they have the latest patches and protections.

• Beware of too many five-star reviews

Cybercriminals often fill their Google Play apps with fake positive reviews. Many fake or malicious algorithms have only the highest or, conversely, sharply negative reviews. They are characterised by vague statements and repetitive wording, indicating that they are sent by bots. Compare them with one-star reviews to understand the app's real capabilities.

• Phones may behave abnormally

Abnormal device behaviour can simply be a basic technical problem, but it can also be a sign of hacking. Take action if something goes wrong, check for any recent changes or contact the technical support team of the mobile device or security software vendor.

• Install secure software

Comprehensive security software for all types of devices - whether computers, tablets or smartphones - is still a solid measure to protect your data and privacy from cyberthreats.