How to Secure Mobile Devices?

Understanding how to secure mobile devices is important as they become integral to our daily lives. In 2022, mobile malware samples surged by 51%, and 75% of phishing sites specifically targeted mobile devices. Furthermore, as of Q4 2023, 54.67% of all web traffic comes from mobile devices, making them prime targets for cybercriminals.

Securing mobile devices is crucial to mitigate various cybersecurity risks. Below are the latest risks associated with mobile device security, along with data-backed examples illustrating their financial, operational, and reputational impacts:

1. Mobile Phishing Attacks

In 2022, mobile phishing attacks resulted in estimated global financial losses of approximately $3.88 million.

Operational Disruptions: A 2023 report indicated that 57% of organizations experience weekly or daily phishing attempts, leading to significant operational challenges.

In 2023, a UK-based financial institution suffered reputational harm after a mobile phishing attack compromised customer accounts, leading to public distrust and a decline in customer confidence.

2.Mobile Malware Infections

The global cost of mobile malware attacks was projected to reach $1.5 billion in 2023, reflecting the financial burden on affected organizations.

In 2022, 97% of organizations faced mobile threats that used multiple attack vectors, causing significant operational disruptions.

In 2022, a U.S. healthcare provider experienced a data breach due to mobile malware, leading to public outcry and damage to its reputation.

By following these best practices to secure your mobile devices, you'll be well-equipped to protect your mobile devices against cyber threats.

Importance of Secure Mobile Device

Mobile devices hold a significant amount of personal and financial information, making them highly targets for cybercriminals. Phishing attacks are a major threat, with 88% of spear-phishing targeting mobile devices through apps. These sophisticated attacks often catch users off guard. In 2020, 34% of employees clicked on phishing links, and 19% provided credentials or downloaded malicious software. This high success rate has fueled a market for phishing kits and stolen credentials on the dark web (Pradeo).

Additionally, mobile devices are often used for financial transactions, storing sensitive information such as banking apps, credit card details, and mobile payment apps. Unauthorized access can lead to significant financial theft or fraudulent transactions, potentially draining your bank account or raising charges on your credit card.

Passwords and login credentials for various apps and websites, including social media and email accounts, are frequently stored on mobile devices. If cybercriminals access these, they can take control of your online identity, lock you out of your accounts, and use them for malicious activities.

Organizations also rely on mobile devices to access sensitive company data. A security breach on an employee's device can lead to the loss of critical business information, resulting in financial losses and reputational damage. In fact, 56% of employees use four to eight enterprise applications on their mobile devices, increasing the risk of security breaches (Zimperium).

Overall, protecting your mobile device ensures that all sensitive information—whether personal, financial, or business-related—remains secure and private. This not only prevents potential identity theft and financial loss but also provides peace of mind in our increasingly digital world.

Please also take a look at Keepnet’s “What Is Mobile Security: Threats and Components” blog post for detailed information on mobile security.

10 Ways to Secure Mobile Devices

Understanding 10 ways to secure mobile devices is important for protecting your mobile data from mobile security threats, and it all begins with knowing how to secure mobile devices effectively. Here are 10 ways to secure your mobile devices;

1. Activate Screen Lock

A screen lock is your first line of defense against unauthorized access. Whether it's a PIN, pattern, or biometric lock, it provides a significant barrier.

If you lose your phone in a public place or stolen, a screen lock can prevent unauthorized access to your personal data, reducing the risk of identity theft or financial loss.

A study by Consumer Reports found that 28% of smartphone users do not use any screen lock, leaving their devices vulnerable to theft and misuse.

2. Disable Bluetooth When Not in Use

Bluetooth, when left on, can be an easy target for hackers. Disabling it when not in use reduces the risk of unauthorized access. In crowded areas, hackers can use Bluetooth scanners to exploit devices with Bluetooth left on.

For instance, vulnerabilities such as BlueBorne can allow hackers to take complete control of a device via Bluetooth. This vulnerability affects a wide range of devices including smartphones, laptops, and IoT devices, making it a significant threat.

Additionally, the BLUFFS attack exploits flaws in the Bluetooth standard, allowing attackers to hijack Bluetooth connections and decrypt communications. These incidents highlight the importance of turning off Bluetooth when it's not needed to prevent potential data breaches and unauthorized access.

3. Regularly Update Your Mobile Operating System

Regularly updating your mobile operating system is one of the essential mobile device security tips for maintaining your device's security. Operating system updates often include minor and major security updates that protect your devices against cyber threats.

Ignoring these updates can leave your device vulnerable to cybercriminals who can exploit the vulnerabilities in your old mobile OS version. According to Pradeo, known vulnerabilities are the leading cause of data breaches, accounting for 44% of such incidents.

By keeping your phone’s operating system up to date, you stay ahead of these threats and ensure that your device is protected against the latest security risks.

4. Connect Only to Verified Wi-Fi Networks

Hackers love Public Wi-Fi networks because they can join to Wi-Fi like everyone else, making it important to know ways to secure mobile devices in such environments. Always connect to verified networks or use a VPN to protect your data.

Hackers often set up fake public Wi-Fi hotspots in public places to intercept the data of users who join the fake Wi-Fi for internet access. This technique, known as a "man-in-the-middle" attack, can capture your login credentials, personal information, and more.

By avoiding unverified networks and using a VPN tunnel for secure connections, you can prevent these attacks and keep your data safe.

5. Employ a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A VPN encrypts your internet connection, making it difficult for hackers to intercept your data. This is especially important when using public Wi-Fi, making it one of the effective ways in how to secure mobile devices.

When connected to hotel or airport Wi-Fi, using a VPN can keep your data safe from potential snoopers on the same network. VPNs create a secure tunnel for your data, ensuring that even if the network is compromised, your data remains protected.

6. Download Apps Solely from Reputable Sources

To keep your mobile device secure, it's important to download apps only from reputable sources like the Google Play Store for Android devices and the Apple App Store for iOS devices.

These official app stores have strict security measures and guidelines for developers, ensuring that the apps provided are safe and reliable.

On the other hand, third-party app stores often lack these stringent security checks. Apps from these sources may not be thoroughly reviewed, increasing the risk of downloading malicious software.

These apps can contain malware, spyware, or viruses that can steal your personal and financial information or damage your device.

By sticking to reputable app stores, you significantly reduce the risk of compromising your device's security and protect your personal data.

7. Implement Multi-Factor Authentication

Imagine adding an extra lock to your front door—one that requires a key and a fingerprint scan. That’s what Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) does for your online accounts. It goes beyond just a password, adding an extra layer of security to keep your information safe.

MFA combines two or more verification methods, such as a password and a temporary code sent to your phone or a fingerprint scan.

This means that even if someone manages to get your password, they still need the second form of verification to access your account. This significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access.

Many online services, like Gmail and Facebook, offer MFA, providing an additional layer of security for your accounts. By enabling MFA, you make it much harder for hackers to gain access, as they would need both your password and the second verification method.

8. Secure Your Data with Encryption

Secure your mobile data with encryption because encrypted data is protected from unauthorized access, providing peace of mind that your sensitive information is highly secure, highlighting the benefits of securing mobile devices.

For instance, in the event of theft, encrypted data remains inaccessible to thieves without the decryption key, thereby protecting your personal information.

For iOS devices, you can enable encryption by:

• Going to Settings.
• Tapping on "Touch ID & Passcode" or "Face ID & Passcode."
• Following the prompts to enable encryption.

For Android devices:

• Go to Settings.
• Tap on "Security."
• Select "Encrypt phone" and follow the instructions.

9. Limit Location Services Usage

Apps can track your location, providing benefits like finding nearby restaurants, suggesting local places, or giving weather updates. However, this convenience comes with privacy risks. Apps and cell phone providers may collect and sell your location data to advertisers or other third parties.

Hackers can exploit this data to track your movements, steal personal information, or even plan targeted attacks. For example, knowing your daily routines and whereabouts can make you a target for theft or stalking.

To reduce these risks, limit location services to essential apps and turn them off when not needed. Here’s how:

For iOS devices:

• Go to Settings > Privacy > Location Services
• Turn off location services for specific apps or entirely

For Android devices:

• Go to Settings > Location > App-level permissions
• Adjust location permissions for individual apps

By controlling which apps can access your location, you enhance your privacy and security. This practice helps prevent unauthorized tracking and protects your personal information from potential misuse.

10. Equip Your Device with Antivirus Software

Just as you protect your computer with antivirus software, your mobile device also benefits from this layer of defense.

Antivirus software adds an additional shield against malware and other cyber threats. With real-time scanning and automatic updates, it provides ongoing security for your mobile device.

Antivirus programs can detect and remove hidden malware that might compromise your mobile data. This comprehensive protection ensures that your personal information remains safe.

For example, if you accidentally download a malicious app, your antivirus software can identify and prevent the threat before it causes any harm.

Installing reputable antivirus software helps you stay ahead of potential mobile threats and maintain your device's security. It alerts you to malicious apps and prevents them from causing damage, offering peace of mind in knowing your mobile data is protected.

Provide Mobile Security with Cyber Security Awareness Training Offered by Keepnet

Securing mobile devices is essential to protect both personal and organizational data from cyber threats, underscoring the benefits of securing mobile devices.

Keepnet offers a comprehensive Security Awareness Training program to educate employees on preventing social engineering attacks and other cyber threats, thereby reducing human error incidents that lead to data breaches.

The security awareness training product covers various topics, including recognizing phishing attempts, understanding malware risks, mobile security, and implementing strong security practices.

This cyber security awareness training program helps organizations build a robust defense against cyber threats by educating employees on overall cyber threats. Interactive modules, real-world scenarios, and continuously updated content keep users informed about the latest threats.

Keepnet’s Security Awareness Training features engaging elements like gamification, phishing simulations, and behavior-based learning, ensuring high participation and retention rates.

Gartner reports that 70% of employees still engage in risky behaviors despite training, but Keepnet’s targeted approach can lead to a 90% reduction in high-risk behaviors.

Watch the video below to see how Keepnet’s Security Awareness Training can defend your organization by educating employees about social engineering threats, which account for 98% of all cyber attacks.

Editor’s note: This blog was updated November 11, 2024