Mobile security refers to measures to strengthen your device’s defenses against risks such as data breaches, unwanted surveillance, ransomware, scamming methods, and other malicious intents.
The most common way hackers gain access to mobile devices is phishing and smishing (text message phishing) that asks the user to click a link or download a file that introduces malware to the device.
Another culprit is malicious apps. The app may look legitimate but actually be loaded with malware. Besides using only reputable and official sources for downloading, enabling encryption on your device may also help.
Public WiFi is also a concern. Hackers will often set up fake WiFi hotspots. When someone joins, they can see everything sent across their network. They will steal login passwords, documents, and anything else they can potentially use. If you need to use public WiFi, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to create a secure tunnel for your information so hackers won’t be able to see your data.
Here are some other tips to help keep your devices more secure:
Keep your operating systems updated. Updates ensure that users are protected from the newest cyber threats.
Create different and complex passwords. Having a complex or ‘hard’ password for websites, especially ones such as banking, personal email and any other app that holds personal information, is especially important for protecting your accounts.
Install legitimate cyber security mobile apps. Find reputable software that suits your needs for both desktop and cell phone security, especially if you’re accessing public WiFi networks often.
Use software that keeps your family safe, such as parental controls to control what your children are seeing and to monitor their website usage.
Disable remote connectivity. When you’re going into public spaces, turn off your Bluetooth, Airdrop, and Wi-Fi connection so that others cannot access your device.
Allow limited permissions for apps. When downloading apps, be sure to check what information the app is processing and put necessary restrictions in place. If you encounter an app on your phone that you didn’t download, you should delete it immediately.
Check apps before downloading. Only download apps from official stores, such as Google Play (Android), the App Store (Apple). Check reviews, privacy policies, and required permissions of apps before installing, to know where your data is being used.
Use biometric access, such as your face or fingerprint as an additional layer of protection.
Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA). This verification method means that you confirm via an additional method, such as SMS or email code, to ensure that it’s you entering a personal platform or making payments online.
Protect your business information. It only takes one unmonitored device for major data breaches to happen. If your job requires the use of mobile devices, take extra precautions for your mobile threat defense and if you can, opt for a completely separate device.
Thank you for reading about mobile security. Here’s your chance to win a $300 Amazon Gift Card. We will select a random winner from all correct and complete entries below:
Contest Rules: No purchase necessary. Void were prohibited. One entry per person. Must be 18 years of age or older to enter. Employees and family members of PenTeleData and their affiliates are ineligible. This contest is open to legal residents in PenTeleData territories only. One winner will be selected at random and will be announced after the selection on or about June 30, 2025. Odds of winning will depend on number of entries. Winners must grant permission for PenTeleData to use his/her name, statements and image in future promotions, without compensation. All PenTeleData decisions and prize awards are final. Prizes may not be substituted and are not refundable, transferable, or redeemable for cash.