Cybersecurity is Everyone's duty, so We need to secure our own Smartphones from threats
When acquiring a new smartphone, the immediate instinct is to shield it from potential harm with a protective case. Yet, safeguarding your device's integrity goes beyond mere physical protection. Have you considered the necessity of implementing security measures beyond antivirus software to safeguard the valuable data you store on your phone?
Kaspersky, a renowned cybersecurity expert, sheds light on three pivotal reasons why mobile devices demand comprehensive software protection.
Your Money is in you Phone
In the aftermath of the pandemic, Southeast Asia witnessed a surge in online banking and e-wallet adoption, leading the region to earn the title of the fastest-growing mobile wallet market. Mobile-based payments continue their upward trajectory, with 86 active mobile money services in Southeast Asia as of last year. This trend has also birthed several unicorns poised to capitalize on its momentum.
Kaspersky's research on Digital Payments unveiled that Android smartphones reign supreme as the preferred choice for online financial transactions across the region. A closer look at individual countries reveals a dominance of Android-powered phones. Indonesia and the Philippines lead with 82% of digital payment adopters utilizing Android devices, followed by 76% in Malaysia, 73% in Thailand, 67% in Vietnam, and 54% in Singapore.
In 2022 alone, Kaspersky thwarted a staggering 1,083 instances of mobile banking Trojans, which posed a significant threat to users in Southeast Asia. Additionally, the region experienced 207,506 incidents involving mobile malware. Adrian Hia, Kaspersky's Managing Director for Asia Pacific, underscores the importance of robust security solutions for mobile devices, especially in Southeast Asia where protective measures are still a work in progress.
You use your Phone to do Business
While mobile banking garners attention, mobile phones harbor another potential risk – accessing corporate resources, including company emails. The Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) culture introduces a precarious element: 96% of smartphones connecting to corporate networks are non-work devices, designated for personal use.
Kaspersky's researchers have encountered instances of Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) infiltrating corporate systems through compromised mobile devices. APTs like Pegasus and Chrysor utilize spyware tactics, leveraging Android or iOS vulnerabilities to infect victims' smartphones. In 2022, Kaspersky identified 10,543 global instances of mobile ransomware Trojan installers.
Adrian Hia emphasizes that neglecting security on personal mobile devices can compromise a company's overall IT security posture. Despite the convenience of BYOD, Hia advocates for enterprises to encourage employees to install protective measures on their smartphones to ensure the safety of critical enterprise networks.
Your Phone is Connected to Social Media
A disconcerting survey reveals that one in four internet users in the Asia Pacific fell victim to identity fraud, with many displaying a lack of concern for safeguarding their identity against theft and online fraud. Social media platforms, primarily accessed through mobile devices, serve as hotbeds for fraudulent activities.
Kaspersky's research indicates that nearly 38% of social media users are acquainted with someone who experienced data breaches while using these platforms. This figure jumps to over half (52%) for users aged 18-34. Additionally, 7% of global users admit to falling prey to fraud via social media.
The prevalence of phishing attacks further highlights the vulnerability of mobile devices. In 2022, Kaspersky's mobile solutions thwarted 360,185 attempts to click on phishing links from messaging apps. WhatsApp accounted for 82.71% of these attempts, followed by Telegram at 14.12% and Viber at 3.17%.
Adrian Hia underscores the need for a safety net to secure the treasure troves of personal information residing within our social media and messaging apps. While our mobile phones empower us with connectivity and convenience, they also attract cybercriminals seeking to exploit digital vulnerabilities. Protecting our digital reputation and identity demands vigilant security measures.
In a world where mobile devices have become the epicenter of financial transactions, corporate interactions, and social engagements, the imperative to fortify them with comprehensive security solutions becomes increasingly evident. Kaspersky's insights serve as a clarion call, urging individuals and enterprises to prioritize the security of their mobile devices in the face of evolving cyber threats.
In addition to these three reasons, there are many other reasons why your smartphone needs security protection. Here are a few more:
- Your smartphone is constantly connected to the internet. This makes it vulnerable to attack from cybercriminals who can exploit security vulnerabilities in your device or in the apps you use.
- Your smartphone is a portable device. This means that it is easy to lose or have it stolen. If your smartphone is lost or stolen, the data on it could be accessed by unauthorized individuals.
- Your smartphone is a powerful computer. It has the same capabilities as a laptop or desktop computer, which means that it is vulnerable to the same types of malware and attacks.
It is important to protect your smartphone with a security solution that includes antivirus, anti-malware, and firewall protection. You should also be careful about what apps you install on your device and what websites you visit. By taking these precautions, you can help to keep your smartphone safe from malware and attacks.
SOURCE: https://manilastandard.net/tech/314360524/3-reasons-why-your-smartphone-needs-security-protection-now.html
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