We mentioned that Apple iPhone users could be a target for cell phone hackers, as many iPhone users are choosing the same, common passwords. However, now it seems that all mobile phone users are at risk, and need to take action to secure their phones and safeguard personal information.
With NFC gaining momentum, more mobile phone users are relying on their phones to complete banking transactions, store passwords, make purchases, and save credit card information. Mobile phones are being used to simplify life, and are highly convenient, yet with few people placing safeguards on their phones, users are susceptible to exploitation by third parties and hackers.
‘A recent survey conducted by BullGuard showed that 24 per cent of internet users banked online from their mobile device, and many also admitted to storing sensitive data such as bank details, credit card numbers, URLs, logins and passwords and saved PIN numbers as reminders,’ the company said in a press release.
The survey also concluded that most people ignore even the most basic security measures on their phones. 62 per cent of mobile phone users do not have a basic pin or password to protect their phone. Having a password on a mobile is the first line of defence, and a very easy and effective security measure to implement.
Additionally, 53 per cent of all users were unaware that dedicated mobile security is available, while 21 per cent believe that mobile security is not necessary.
Claus Villumsen, mobile security expert at Bullguard, is concerned that few people safeguard their phones, while storing information that could become potentially dangerous if in the hands of the wrong person.
‘It appears as though modern mobile users are quick to appreciate the convenience and easy access to services offered from handhelds but slow to recognise the potential threat to smartphones in a time when mobile malware on some platforms has risen by up to 400 per cent in the last six months,’ Villumsen says.
Even if the phone stays in your hand at all times ‘mobile threats go undetected,’ Villumsen warns. ‘Some attacks are specifically designed to “mine data” from a phone without the user’s knowledge, which could be disastrous if this were to include sensitive information such as financial data or secure documents.’
While using a mobile phone is easy and convenient, especially when it comes to checking email, shopping online and paying bills, be aware that you are a target unless you implement the necessary safety measures to secure your phone.
As previously mentioned, a basic password is one of the easiest ways to safeguard your phone. Be careful when choosing a password however, as you don’t want to choose a predictable password combination that is predictable.
To find out more information on the BullGuard poll, which looked at 2,000 brits in April and May, and additional ways to protect your phone, click here.
Alternatively, try out the BullGuard app or other alternatives such as McAfee.
