What is Mobile Malware and How to Protect Against It?

As the number of people shifting to mobile devices increases day by day, the risks of mobile threats are also growing. With several businesses permitting employees to use personal devices to access corporate networks, they are more vulnerable to cyber-attacks.

There are different types of mobile malware, and they utilise various methods of delivery and infection. In this post, our cybersecurity experts from Perth will help you understand what mobile malware is, the different types and how to protect your mobile devices from malware.

What is Mobile Malware?

Mobile malware is malicious software that exploits vulnerabilities in mobile OS to attack devices like smartphones and tablets.

Why are Mobile Devices Vulnerable, and How does it Affect Businesses?

Mobile devices are more open to cyberattacks because they don’t have the same level of security measures as computers. Many mobile device users don’t take time or effort to install antivirus software as they would do on a computer.

Having no firewalls, antivirus software, and no encryption leaves the mobile devices vulnerable to malware attacks. Yet, many people use their mobile devices to access confidential information. This leaves their sensitive information and also their businesses in danger.

A malware attack can cause a prolonged effect on your business. Over the loss of confidential information, there will be loss of money, extra financial expenses, lack of productivity, and more.

How do Malware Affect Mobile Devices?

Open a Pathway: Mobile app malware have a better chance of passing unnoticed through a safety check. They hide in apps, and the malicious code will be launched later when the user starts using the app. This way, hackers get access to your data, sensitive information and can even control your device.

Lock a Device: A hacker can lock you out and gain control of your device or data and even demand money for releasing it.

Slow Down Productivity: Malware can interrupt workflow and even get a device replaced, causing undesirable expenses. It can also drain the device battery and stop devices from getting online.

What are The Types of Mobile Malware?

Mobile Spyware
Spyware infiltrates your device as a program. It is usually attached to links clicked by people or to free software downloads. It observes your action, notes your location and, steals sensitive data. It usually goes unnoticed until your device performance declines or you run an anti-malware scan.

Ransomware
Ransomware locks the device or the significant data of the target, often by encryption. It demands money from the victim in return for access to the device or data. The victim is notified by the attacker themselves and is given instructions on payment of ransom and how to retrieve the data. Cybercriminals usually demand payment in cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Litecoin to guard their identity.

SMS Trojans
SMS trojan uses the SMS services of an infected mobile device to send and intercept messages. They often send texts to premium-rate numbers leading to higher phone expenses.

Mobile Phishing
You may have already heard about what email phishing is. Mobile phishing is similar to email phishing but uses applications instead of emails to transport malware. Most users are often incapable of recognising a fake application and end up compromising sensitive data like account numbers and passwords.

Browser Exploits
The browser exploits take advantage of your browser’s vulnerabilities and take control of your browser and other applications that work within. After infected, you may find changes in your homepage, favourites, and search pages.

How to Protect Your Mobile Devices from Malware?

Here are a few preventive measures you can implement to protect your data and device from mobile malware.

Training Yourself and Others
Cybersecurity training is essential to stay updated about mobile malware and other cyber threats. It helps you and your staff identify malware and avoid them in the future.

Keep Your Apps Updated
With updating, you can ensure your phone’s safety since your apps are running the latest security updates.

Use Layers
Rely on more than one security feature. For example, use VPNs and MFA simultaneously with your anti-malware software. This way, even if one of them is compromised, you still have better chances of protecting your data and device.

Download Applications from Trusted Stores
All apps available in official stores have been screened to ensure they are safe. This doesn’t ensure all of them are fully safe; some fake apps can slip through the screening, but this way, you still have a better chance of being secure.

If your mobile is still not secured with cybersecurity measures, take action now! If you are not sure where to begin, contact us or email us at cybersecurity@computingaustralia.group. Computing Australia has over two decades of experience helping various clients secure their systems and business from cyber-threats. Our cybersecurity experts are 24/7 ready to assist you with any cybersecurity issues.

Jargon Buster

Browser – An application for accessing information on the Internet.
Cryptocurrency – Currency that uses digital files as money. All the currency transactions are recorded and verified by a decentralised system instead of a person or government. e.g., Bitcoin
Email Phishing – is a type of online scam where criminals impersonate as a legitimate source and send fraudulent messages via email to steal sensitive data.
Encryption – a process that encodes information so that it can be read by authorised parties only.
Mobile OS – Mobile Operating System – is software that lets smartphones and other devices run apps and programs. It also manages cellular and wireless network connectivity and phone access.

Article originally published on 02/02/2021
Revised by Blake Parry on 19/04/2021
Added new section: Why are mobile devices vulnerable and how it affects businesses?
Added new terms to Jargon Buster