Is your phone battery draining faster than usual? Or do you consume more data, even though your web browsing habits haven't changed? Perhaps you should consider the possibility that you have been a victim of a hacker.
Mobile phones have now evolved into smart mobile devices, capable of performing tasks previously performed on laptops and desktops. We use them to take photos, send and receive emails, communicate on social media, make online payments, etc. But all this wealth of data attracts scammers who want to get their hands on your data for their own reasons: From selling it on the dark web to stealing your identity details.
In recent years it has been proven many times that an Android or other mobile phone can be hacked by malware. According to Lucas Stefanko, a researcher at global cybersecurity company ESET, who has extensive experience in debunking malware targeting Android users, your phone can be hacked in several ways. One of the most common tactics used is through phishing and malspam emails containing malicious links or attachments. Once the victim clicks on the attachment or link, which then "downloads" the malware to their device, this "opens the door" to the hackers.
Another strategy is to copy websites of popular companies or organisations, which are filled with malicious links that, once clicked, download malware to your device. Furthermore, it is not uncommon for cybercriminals to develop fake apps masquerading as real fitness tracking or cryptocurrency apps, leading unsuspecting victims to download keylogger, ransomware or spyware-type software. These apps are usually distributed through unofficial app stores.
There are several signs that reveal that your smartphone may have been compromised: The most common are that the battery drains faster than usual, you seem to be consuming more data even though your internet browsing habits have not changed, GPS or data usage (either Wi-Fi or mobile data) seems to turn on or off on its own, and random pop-ups or unknown apps are installed without your permission.
Another sign is that apps that previously worked fine start to exhibit strange behaviour, such as suddenly starting, closing or stopping and unexpected errors appearing. Other signs of a breach are that you are receiving strange calls or strange messages, or that your call and text message history contains strange and unknown entries due to certain types of malware trying to make calls or send messages to international premium rate numbers. In fact, if your Android phone is affected by ransomware, your device will be locked and you won't be able to open it.
As far as limiting the chances of your device being affected by malware, there are no magic or easy solutions. However, by following a combination of preventative steps you will manage to stay safe from threats:
Upgrade both your operating system and your applications as soon as the latest updates are available.
Download and store a copy of your data in case your device is compromised.
Use a reliable mobile security solution with a proven track record to protect you from most threats.
Use a reliable mobile security solution with a proven track record to protect you from most threats.
Prefer the official store when downloading apps and always make sure to check reviews of both the app and its developer.
Educate yourself on what are the most common tactics cybercriminals use to hack and compromise devices.
Source: gazzetta.gr
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