Mobile malware is designed to target mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets, with the aim of accessing private data. Mobile malware is a growing threat to organisations of any size because many businesses now allow their employees to access corporate networks using their own devices. Not only does this increase the potential for bringing unknown threats into the company environment, but it also weakens the network and widens the attack surface.
Read on to find out how to ensure the safety of your devices by familiarising yourself with essential information about mobile malware and effective prevention methods.
What types of mobile malware are there?
Malicious actors use a number of different tactics and methods to infect mobile devices. Therefore, when looking at improving your company’s cybersecurity measures, it’s important to consider the best mobile malware protection and to understand the different types of mobile malware threats. So, what can malware do on your mobile device? Let’s take a closer look:
Mobile phishing
Mobile phishing attacks usually come in the form of SMS or email messages sent to a mobile device. SMS phishing, or SMiShing as it is also known, uses SMS text messaging to communicate with the victim to try and convince them to disclose sensitive information, account credentials or to install malware. The hacker will pretend to be a reputable person or entity to try and obtain account credentials or will distribute malicious attachments or links that can extract sensitive information from the victim if clicked or downloaded. Find out more about the indicators of phishing.
Ransomware
Ransomware is a type of mobile malware that locks a victim’s device, or the data held on a device. The malicious actor usually encrypts the data or locks the device and will only restore access or provide decryption once a ransom has been paid. Ransomware attacks differ from other types of cyberattacks because the victim is usually notified that a breach has occurred and is given strict instructions on how they can recover their device or data. Hackers usually demand the ransom in the form of Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies so that they can’t be traced and remain anonymous.
Remote Access Tools (RATs)
Remote access tools, or RATs as they are more commonly known, are types of software that can give someone full control over a device remotely. The RAT will provide a hacker with access to a system, it will present itself as if they had physical access to the device itself. Once RAT access has been secured the malicious actor can use your device’s camera, infiltrate files, and control the device.
Spyware
Spyware attacks synchronise with email accounts, passwords, calendar apps, notes, and other sources of personal data. The spyware then collects the data and sends it to a remote server. Malicious actors can listen in on calls, track your location, and steal personal information to commit identity theft. Spyware is often attached to links clicked by users or free software downloads. Peer-to-peer (P2P) file sharing has also increased the amount of spyware.
Banking mobile malware
Banking Trojans are a type of malware that have been designed specifically to obtain online banking credentials and other data from infected machines. Once this information has been exfiltrated to an attacker, they can use it to steal money, commit identity theft and other forms of fraud.
Ways you can protect your mobile from malware
There are many different ways in which you can protect your mobile device from malware. The best way to protect a device is by fully encrypting it which makes the device very difficult to hack and almost impossible for malicious actors to steal the data. Other measures include setting a sophisticated password for both the SIM card and the device itself, as well as other steps. Let’s take a closer look:
Make sure you use secure Wi-Fi
Updating your Wi-Fi software is not only important for performance but also key for security. Wi-Fi software updates include bug fixes, security patches, and new features that can help secure the network. Make sure you check for updates regularly and install them as quickly as possible through the router’s settings. Using WPA3 encryption will encrypt all the data transmitted over the network, making it extremely difficult for hackers to access the information. Make sure that you use a sophisticated passphrase with at least 20 characters to secure your Wi-Fi network.
Have the latest anti-virus protection
Anti-virus or anti-malware protection for mobile devices is key to minimising the risks. Anti-malware software usually comes in two different types: apps that users can download to their devices and mobile threat defence. The latter can be utilised by administrators to incorporate into an Enterprise Mobility Management (EMM) strategy and then be used across the organisation’s mobile device fleet.
Keep on top of the latest security updates
IT security teams can reduce mobile attacks within their organisation by upgrading to the latest security updates and OS updates for Android and iOS. Administrators should keep on top of mobile threats so they can allowlist and blocklist apps, which stops users from downloading certain applications onto a device. Administrators can also perform unlocked bootloader detection and jailbreak/rooting, disallow third-party app stores and untrusted sources, and require complex passcodes from users. Encryption is also a tried and tested method of protecting devices against malicious actors and mobile malware.
Watch out for malicious emails
Malicious emails, or the links and attachments contained within them, are designed to launch attacks on a user’s computer. The attachments can be disguised as PDFs, e-files, documents, and voicemails. Malicious actors attach these files to an email that can install malware capable of stealing information and destroying data.
Download items from trusted sources
Only download items from trusted sources. If you don’t recognise the sender, don’t touch it. This includes the downloads of apps, files, and plugins. Avoid downloading any plugins to assist with videos, pictures, music, and other content online without verifying their legitimacy as they can contain malware. Don’t download any unknown files or software. Avoid any free software found online or offered via email.
Education and training
The education and training of staff is also important. Users must be aware of the risks and be very familiar with what they can and cannot do with their devices. Unified endpoint management (UEM) and mobile device management (MDM) systems can also help to protect both private and company-owned devices and ensure that admins have the visibility they need to keep things in check.
How can RiskXchange help?
RiskXchange is one of the best cybersecurity firms globally leading the fight against cybercrime. Not only are we able to provide a whole host of services to improve your company’s cybersecurity measures and reduce its attack surface, but we are the best in the business at stopping malware in its tracks.
RiskXchange can help organisations of any size identify their most significant malware threats and implement the best anti-malware solution. Our integrated suite of cybersecurity products and services produce data-driven insights to help companies prevent security breaches. If you are looking to strengthen your cybersecurity rating and program to prevent attacks and protect your data, then RiskXchange can help you!
RiskXchange is also the best platform to protect your organisation from third-party cybersecurity and compliance risks. Our managed, third-party risk management program is a unique service that is fully integrated within the RiskXchange platform. RiskXchange can monitor your attack surface continuously to prevent data breaches, information leakage, as well as discover and report on a wide range of cybersecurity issues.
Get in touch with RiskXchange to find out more about mobile malware protection and how best to secure your business.