Latest Mobile Device Security Tips 2022
If you put mobile device security, applications, and data in a shaker together with technological consumerization and the consequent increase in mobile malware, all seasoned with a spoonful fond shake it well, what do you get? A deadly cocktail of security threats for everyone: consumers, businesses, and mobile networks. How to immunize against such a concoction?
Threats to corporate mobility attack from multiple fronts, ignoring them is giving up your fort, or rather the security of your corporate data.
The vulnerabilities of Mobile Device Security encourage the criminal intent of hackers who see in them an easy target for their criminal activities – theft of documents, passwords, bank details, or personal information.
The same user and company. There is not the same awareness of computer security, as if mobile devices were naturally immune to any type of malware. And it is quite the opposite.
To avoid this devilish cocktail, companies should start by raising awareness and training their employees (users and administrators) about the fundamental protection measures to adopt to maintain adequate mobile security, with the implementation of a mobile security strategy, which observes the following basic procedures:
Device Password Lock
A password for the device to come out of the sleep mode it enters after a while of inactivity. Measure that must be complemented with the encryption of the memory, the internal one, and that of the card, with a screen lock key. And always remember not to store sensitive information on the device, even if the data is encrypted. If you have to access critical data, it is better to do it online through secure servers. Remote wipe of device data and restore to factory settings, in case of loss or theft.
Perform Regular Backups
with solutions controlled by the organization or a trusted ICT partner. There are programs and online applications that synchronize the stored data with the desktop computer so that the data is always available and updatable. You have to take care that confidential information is synchronized.
Avoid
The main source of infection is the installation of mobile apps from unknown sources. Only install apps from official repositories (App Store, Google Play, or App World). Do not install programs downloaded directly from P2P or forums where there is a high risk of encountering Trojans. Also, avoid calls to 8xx numbers, or sending SMS to special numbers, which repeats the pattern of 906 calls that ended with alarming bills, remember?
Install Only the Necessary Applications
To work, an excess of applications slows down the operation of the device. In addition, this measure minimizes the risk of exposure. Before installing an application, it is important to read the permissions and conditions, as well as check its reputation.
Jailbreak or Root
give device administration privileges to applications to bypass the protection jail that all mobile operating systems have by default. Allow it only when it is absolutely necessary for the operation of a specific essential application since in the event that someone manages to install a “bug” on your phone, it will have the root profile and will be able to do everything for you. Better not root it
Have antivirus protection for mobile device security as an extra security measure against malware. There are multiple solutions.
Perform Software Updates
Mobile OSes include an application update system with which they inform users about the new available versions of installed applications. It is essential to carry out these updates since, in addition to including new functionalities, they correct security flaws. Keeping the system updated prevents infections through vulnerable apps. But be careful because some free applications that we install; the first time seem “innocent”, but then the updates come loaded with modifications to have permissions that have nothing to do with the purpose of the installed application.
Beware of Public Wi-Fi and Public Chargers
Even if they have a password for the connection, public Wi-Fi is vulnerable to external attacks that could affect everyone connected to that network. Therefore, if it is not necessary to use them, it is better not to access any service that requires a password, carry out banking operations or download confidential documents. As for public chargers, it is best to avoid connecting the device via USB to any public computer as they can be manipulated to extract information from any USB device they are connected to.
You must bear in mind that any “neighbor’s free Wi-Fi” service may have some malicious actor behind it that records everything you are sending to Cyberspace through that free Wi-Fi (what is encrypted is encrypted, but what about the emails? And the documents? sent?) You must always bear in mind that it does not only affect your personal data but all the data on the device (corporate and personal).
Disable Wireless Networks
(Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or infrared) if they are not going to be used in the short term. Attackers can use fake access points and trick the device into automatically connecting to a supposedly trusted network from which user activity is monitored without the user being aware of it.
Following these measures maintains adequate security of mobile devices. But only if the user and the company are aware and act accordingly. People sometimes think that there is nothing on their mobile or tablet that they are interested in stealing, however, they forget the emails. The attachments, the address books, and contacts.Because, of course, the wireless and VPN settings allow access to the corporate network. They forget that a small slot is enough for attackers to sneak into the kitchen. The awareness and training of company personnel under well-defined security. Administration policies and their compliance are the main protection measures.