Approximately 3.8 billion people globally own smartphones, according to Statista. This translates to nearly 48% of the world’s population with access to the internet from the comfort of their phones. Additionally, this is an indicator of rapid technological adoption, and by extrapolation, a sign of economic growth.
But with this rapid tech adoption comes some risks and vulnerabilities, especially on data privacy and online security. Most smartphone users are not aware of cybersecurity and are more susceptible to cyber-attacks. We’ve highlighted some of the common security mistakes you could be making and the measures you can take to safeguard your online privacy and data security.
- Using Unsecured Wi-Fi
Whenever free Wi-Fi is available, most people connect to it, switching off their cellular data. The catch here is that free Wi-Fi is usually unsecured, making it a major security threat. Hackers can easily position themselves in between you and the connection point. This way, they can remotely access your gadget, steal your stored data, and even get hold of your important passwords.
To remain safe when using free Wi-Fi, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) app to connect to the network. A VPN will encode all the data to and from your gadget. It also masks your IP address, boosting anonymity and enhancing your online privacy.
2. Downloading Unverified Apps
Unverified apps can be the perfect place to add spyware or malware to your device. Before downloading or installing any app, take time to verify it first. This can quickly be done by checking reviews from others who have used it and being keen on the ratings and any complaints made.
A rule of thumb is to download apps from reliable app stores to ensure they are credible. Also, when granting permission to these apps, check out for those that ask for so much access. Apps that need unnecessary access to your data are worth questioning.
3. Using Weak Passwords
Most smartphone users opt to have easy passwords that are quick to remember. Weak passwords for unlocking your device or your internet accounts make you more vulnerable to data theft and cyber-attacks. An excellent place to start is to add special characters to your passwords, so it’s more non-obvious. You should also use a two-step verification system for critical accounts.
Another great way to remain secure with your passwords is to use different unique passwords for other accounts. Try remembering your passwords and avoid storing them in your smartphone or an online account linked to your phone, such as calendar, Evernote, etc. Similarly, never leave your device logged into sensitive sites, e.g., your online banking provider.
4. Failing to Update Your Smartphone’s Software
Downloading and installing updates isn’t any fun, but it’s necessary to keep yourself safe from digital attackers. If you are used to ignoring updates due to your busy schedule, a lack of a Wi-Fi connection, or any other excuse, then you should know that your device could easily be compromised.
What you want to do instead is set your device to auto-download updates on a trusted Wi-Fi connection and take the time to install updates as soon as the smartphone manufacturer releases them.
5. Clicking on Unknown or Unverified Links
If you are a habitual smartphone user, then you know there’s no shortage of stray and malicious links circulating online. According to Valimail’s Email Fraud Landscape survey, more than three billion fake emails are sent worldwide every day. If you are constantly curious to know whatever gets in your way, you could be vulnerable to phishing attacks.
But fake links aren’t only limited to emails. Your peers could also forward you malicious links via SMS or social media, and since you trust them, you’ll instantly tap on those links. In most cases, attackers that use links as a weapon leverage social engineering techniques to lure unsuspecting and mostly naïve smartphone users.
To be on the safe side, avoid clicking on any link that asks you to do so. It doesn’t matter who is sending it, whether it’s your friend or workmate. Always double-check the content and the intention of the link before following any orders or requests.
Cybersecurity Starts With You
Keeping your mobile data safe in today’s online world calls for more security measures. The first step is to be aware of cybersecurity issues and take the necessary actions to seal all the loopholes.
If you are in the workplace, adhere to the mobile device policies in place to avoid risking your employer’s data. Where possible, treat your mobile device the same way you would treat computers and servers.
Another critical consideration is to avoid messing up with your device’s built-in security. If you jailbreak your device, for instance, you make it more vulnerable to attacks. By sticking with the cybersecurity measures we’ve highlighted above, you can rest assured that your smartphone won’t lead you to more trouble than you can bear.
