Smart Phones have become a necessity in our lives. But still half of such device users do not know the basics of mobile security and all that revolves around it. In this article, we will try to bust some of the common myths and misconceptions that are circling around smart phones and their usage.
Computers are secure than smart phones– If that was the case, then why the former encountered more malware attacks in the year 2020-21 and why is that the latter is not been used for only communications. According to experts, both the gadgets are safe, irrespective of the iOS or Android OS in use. With that said, it depends on the usage and the cyber hygiene of the users.
Apps related to mobile security are senseless- There is a notion among smart phone users that their device doesn’t need an antivirus software as they are downloading content only from Google Playstore. Remember, password managers, network scanners, gaming apps, encrypted messaging apps can also have droppers embedded in them, that when deployed, can create nasty troubles to users. To avoid such threats, better to install anti-malware solutions and authenticator apps to keep online activity safe and secure.
Apple iPhone supplies devices that are immune to malware- This is a pure misconception that was circulated by a bunch of fanatics some 4 years ago. In reality, iPhones can get infected by malicious software and are also vulnerable to cyber-attacks. For instance, the year 2017 discovery made by Lookout found that safari browsers can be intercepted and their proper functioning can be halted until a ransom is paid.
Downloading apps from App store or Play store solves all issues- This isn’t true as some malware or trojans do sneak into the play stores in disguise of other genuine apps and were found conducting espionage, and data steal. For instance, the year 2020 revelation of Pegasus malware developed by the NSO Group of Israel.
VPN usage keeps your browsing activity safe from trackers- Well, Virtual Private Networks aka VPNs were developed to do spoof the real location of mobile users and prove indispensable both security and privacy wise. However, some apps are found working against this criterion and were caught tracking online users. For instance, Free VPN, Super VPN, Secure VPN, Rabbit VPN, Flash VPN, UFO VPN, are some apps that were caught red-handed sending details to servers in Hong-Kong, a haven to many hacking groups.
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