Cybersecurity Awareness Month : 20 Ways to Stop Mobile Attacks

20 Ways to Block Mobile Attacks

Don’t let your guard down just because you’re on a mobile device. Be just as careful as you would on a desktop!

WiFi

            • Don’t allow your device to auto-join unfamiliar
              networks.
            • Always turn off WiFi when you aren’t using it or
              don’t need it.
            • Never send sensitive information over WiFi unless you’re absolutely sure it’s a secure network.

Apps

            • Only use apps available in your device’s official
              store – NEVER download from a browser.
            • Be wary of apps from unknown developers or
              those with limited/bad reviews.
            • Keep them updated to ensure they have the
              latest security.
            • If they’re no longer supported by your store,
              just delete!
            • Don’t grant administrator, or excessive privileges
              to apps unless you truly trust them.

Browser

            • Watch out for ads, giveaways and contests that
              seem too good to be true. Often these lead to
              phishing sites that appear to be legit.
            • Pay close attention to URLs. These are harder to
              verify on mobile screens but it’s worth the effort.
            • Never save your login information when you’re
              using a web browser.

Bluetooth

            • Disable automatic Bluetooth pairing.
            • Always turn it off when you don’t need it.

Smishing  (phishing via SMS)

            • Don’t trust messages that attempt to get you to
              reveal any personal information
            • Beware of similar tactics in platforms like What’s
              App, Facebook Messenger Instagram, etc.
            • Treat messages the same way you would treat
              email, always think before you click!

Vishing (voice phishing)

            • Do not respond to telephone or email requests
              for personal financial information. If you are
              concerned, call the financial institution directly,
              using the phone number that appears on the
              back of your credit card or on your monthly
              statement.
            • Never click on a link in an unsolicited commercial
              email.
            • Speak only with live people when providing
              account information, and only when you initiate
              the call.
            • Install software that can tell you whether you are
              on a secure or fake website.