Cyber Security & the Threats of Mobile Devices


Cybercrime or Cyber-attack is a much-talked topic recently, and cybercriminals use different techniques to disable one or multiple computers & networks. Cyberattacks can disable computers and steal data. Cybercriminals use varied technologies to steal data from computers. Cyber-attacks include Phishing, malware, etc.

Types of cyber Attacks

Undoubtedly, cyber-attacks have substantial negative impacts. A cyber-attack can cause data breaches or data manipulation. Once an organization faces a cyber-attack, it can suffer huge losses. Today, all need to have a bit of knowledge of different types of cyber-attacks.

  • Malware − Malware is a malicious virus, including spyware, Trojans, adware, etc. Trojan viruses conceal its feature as legitimate software, whereas Ransomware does not allow a computer to access prime components of the network.

  • Phishing − Among the most common cyberattacks, Phishing creates a significant impact on computers and networks. You can get affected via Phishing if you open an unknown mail or click on the links of the mail.

  • Attack through password − This is a typical attack where hackers identify and hack your password.

Apart from those above, people worldwide suffer from other cyberattacks like SQL injunction attacks, Denial of service attacks, Insider threats, etc.

Cyber Security - History

Cyber threats or cyberattacks have increased significantly in the last few years, and cyber security has been launched to protect computers from different types of cyber threats. Cyber security, or IT security, has emerged as one of the most efficient ways of protecting computers. These security measures have made it possible to keep the software, electronic data, and hardware safe & secured.

The journey of Cyber Security began in the year 1970. Bob Thomas, the famous researcher & Programmer, generated a computer program called Creeper. It can move across the network ARPANET.

Commercial antivirus launched first time in the market in the 1980s. The founder of G Data Software, Andreas Luning and Kai Figge, launched 1985 the first antivirus known as the Atari ST Platform. In 1987, another antivirus was launched known as Ultimate Virus Killer.

The antivirus companies started growing in 1988, and Tjark Auerbach released Avira and the first version of AntiVir. 2014 to present era is known as the Next Gen, and loads of antivirus have been released within this time frame.

Brief on mobile security threats

Smartphones have emerged as one of the most significant devices in recent times, and many organizations also consider this device to improve operations and yield. With the increase in the usage of mobile devices, it has become easy to access computer systems from remote locations. This can lead to data breaches, and here, organizations must take necessary precautions against any data breach.

Normally, organizations can face different types of mobile security threats, like mobile application security, web-based security, mobile network security, and mobile device security.

Types of mobile threats

Every organization must pay attention to varied mobile threats and take necessary actions. Mobile devices also have software and internet access, which can easily get affected by malicious viruses. Here all can check the probable mobile threats that every device can suffer.

  • Suffering from malicious apps − Like computers, mobiles also get infected through a malicious virus. Several malicious websites can steal mobile data and adversely impact users' lives. Trojans are the most common malicious apps for mobile devices.

  • Ransomware − Ransomware is another damaging malware. While your mobile devices face this challenge, you cannot access the data. Sometimes this malware can block your access to get data permanently.

  • Phishing − At present, Phishing is one of the most prevalent online threats that users can often experience via mobile or computer. Mobile phishing is a sub-type of Phishing that shares personal information with hackers. The use of smartphones has increased the risk of Phishing. SMS and voice phishing are some common methods used to fool mobile users.

  • Using public WIFI − Public WIFI is less secure than private WIFI. At present, WIFI connections have become easy to access among the mass. People can use free WIFI in shopping complexes, hotels, etc. However, using open WIFI is always a threat to mobile devices.

  • MitM threats − MitM is also known as the Man-in-the-Middle attacks. Here the attacker incepts between the communications of the two parties without the knowledge of the communicating parties. Here the attacker controls the entire communication between the parties. This cybercrime has emerged as one of the most prominent cyber threats, as it can manipulate an individual's confidential information. Here the attacker installs a sniffer to incept an insecure network connection—Internet protocol spoofing, domain name system spoofing, HTTP spoofing, hijacking of emails, etc.

  • The exploitation of operating systems − This is another recent threat every mobile user has faced. This cybercrime takes advantage of limitations in the mobile device's operating system. As per this technology, hackers also manipulate software codes.

Preventive measures against cyber attacks

With the advancement in technology, the cases of cyber-attacks have been considerably enhanced. Organizations from different parts of the world often claim to suffer from advanced cyberattacks. With the increasing rate of cyber threats, experts have also invented fruitful solutions to stay protected from cyber threats. Let's check some effective solutions against cybercrimes.

  • Organizations need to train their staffs who take care of emails and messages on behalf of the companies. They should only open a link with proper checking.

  • Experts also suggest keeping software used in mobiles or laptops constantly updated. Cybercriminals can only detect the weakness of software if you update them on time.

  • Experts suggest ensuring endpoint protection for corporate networks connecting mobiles, laptops, etc. The paths of these connections should be protected using proper endpoint protection.

  • Installation of a Firewall is another effective way to stay from any type of cyber threat.

  • Experts also suggest keeping a backup of your data to recover the data despite cyber attacks.

Besides, controlling access systems and maintaining WIFI security is also necessary to eliminate cyber threats.

Updated on: 09-Dec-2022

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