Remote working is the new norm for companies all over the world. Mobiles are the backbone of this new era. From Zoom meetings to the transmission of highly sensitive company data, mobile dependency to create virtual offices for a smooth transition is on the rise. It is just not a mobile dependency that growing, together comes the danger of mobile ransomware.

Selectra’s view

Today we are going to pour in our inputs on what is malware attack? This will give you awareness about the mobile threats that exist and how to face them. Since March 2020, mobile hackers have been actively engaged in accessing sensitive and confidential data as part of their malicious activities. We have been seeing headlines on how mobile attacks are compromising data protection and breaching security policies. And mobile security is going to be the most required cybersecurity category hereafter.

What is Mobile Malware?

Mobile malware is an unethical software that compromises data security by targeting various operating systems seen on mobiles. It is malicious and has many variants. The threat is highly risky and spreading awareness is a top priority now. Due to the convenience and ease of operating, most users are switching to mobiles rather than spending time on laptops. This is exactly what mobile hackers are waiting for as potentially important and sensitive tasks are being shared via mobiles.

Beware of the fast-growing mobile threats

Here is a brief about the mobile malware types for further information.

Spyware /MadwareMadware stands for mobile adware. This enters your mobile during a program installation or while running a script. You may not have given consent, however, the mobile hack is so clever that it finds a way to collect your data on the mobile. Even worse, this data could be handed over to third parties. You will then be spammed with ads You will then be spammed with ads Sensitive details like your passwords, location, contacts in the phone etc can be accessed through this kind of spyware. It is not only your security but also contacts in your address book are also going to be in danger.

Trojans & VirusesThese are quite tricky as they enter the mobile while you may be filling in an online application or job-related questionnaire. They start innocently by bringing about changes in the phone wallpaper or silently changing the keyboard language etc. However the longer they exist on the mobile, the more dangerous they become. Viruses can access your banking information, passwords and engage in other malicious activities.

Drive-by DownloadsHave you noticed that when you accidentally open a spam message or click on a malicious website, automatic downloads occur? You may think they are harmless and can ignore these. However, this is what is known as Drive-by Downloads. The malware gets installed as you click on such links/mails. Several threats like spyware, bots, adware etc enter your systems and start causing havoc. These can also access your emails and send malicious viruses throughout your contact list.

Mobile PhishingMobile phishing has been a threat ever since mobiles have been in use. Mobile hackers send emails and even applications from duplicate sources like trusted contacts etc to users. Without thinking twice, these emails /applications are opened and processed. As it appears that the source is a trusted one, users may download the applications which contain malware.

MitMMitM refers to Man-in-the-Middle Attacks. A middle man/cyber-criminal intercepts the data transmitted between mobile users and servers. Third parties enter the network and spy on the communication. It mostly happens by mimicking original Wi-Fi hotspots. It can also happen when redirecting internet traffic when you leave the official website of a company. Mobile hackers can go to the lengths of decrypting all the sensitive data. And in the process, your credentials can also be leaked.

Out of Date OSYou have all got the pop-up that tells you that it is time to update your operating system. Most of you will have clicked the Remind me later button as well. It’s time to stop that as these are vulnerable points that cybercriminals are on the lookout for. When the OS is outdated, there are far more loopholes to enter the network illegally.

Protect yourself from Mobile Malware

Here are some pointers on how to protect the phone from viruses.

1. Install a trusted version of mobile security software– This acts exactly as anti-virus software.The security coverage is more extensive and not just restricted to virus attacks.
2. Update all applications regularly– You can then be sure that the newest version has the latest security patches. Being aware of malware, the security developers work vigilantly to rectify any security breaches or leaks in the software regularly.
3. Use a firewall – Most mobile users ignore firewalls. It is always safe to use a firewall while browsing to protect online privacy. There are a set of firewall rules which permit only authorised apps to access the internet. This offers extra security to your online activities.
4. Download from official and trusted online apps– Do not go for the easy way out. You may be tempted to click on every free download link. However, this could be the worst decision. Take the time to visit the Google play store or Apple app store. Download whatever you need from such reliable sources. Installing a legitimate app is so much more trustworthy than getting it from random links.
5. Screen lock protection– You may forget your phone some place or it may get lost once in a while. Be sure to set a password to lock your screens. Use locks on even social media platforms for extra security. If your phone supports facial recognition or fingerprint technology, that’s even better. Do not expose your sensitive data to outsiders by being careless.

Covid-19 -The disastrous effect on mobile malware

Covid 19 has revolutionised the entire organisational structures across the globe. We have reached a point where work from home is a regular event. Along with the critical health situation, Covid has also had a drastic and brutal impact on cybersecurity, especially mobile security. Let us take a look at some data that we have researched and come across.

According to the Mobile Security Report 2021 released by Check Point, in 2020, at least one mobile malware attack has been initiated in each organisation across countries. 93 % of the threats attempted to tempt users with infected URLs or websites and pushed them into installing malicious payloads. It has been found that almost 40 % of the mobiles worldwide have flaws in chipsets and are vulnerable to mobile attacks. Check Point has also found that compared to past years, there has been a 15% rise in trojan-activity in the banking sector.

Summary

It is always better to be safe than sorry. Never indulge in online transactions that have no valid or reliable source. Do not be tempted by the offers and free downloads that are found all over the internet. We believe that it is our responsibility to protect our readers from the Mobile ransomware attacks that are prevalent in the cyber world today. Approach us if you need to know more about relevant topics on mobile security.