There are several misconceptions about mobile phones that can ultimately compromise user data. Check out our list below of the 5 most common myths people have about cell phones to learn how to best protect your data.
- You don’t need to install all the latest updates
A mobile phone IS a computer, and computers should always be current on the latest patches and updates. These updates fix security vulnerabilities, bugs and system flaws as they are discovered. Ergo, an out-of-date cell phone does not have the newest protections and is vulnerable to exploitation by hackers.
- All apps from the App Store and Google Play are safe to download
Even free apps often come with a laundry list of permissions that, when consented to, allow the app to collect all kinds of data from your phone. This can include things like contacts, phone usage, even personal information stored within other apps or your provider account. It is VERY easy for a third party app developer to dress up their app as a polished, verified application from a reliable company. As soon as you consent to download the app, they can install additional software you’re not aware of, steal data or sell data you’ve consented to providing to others on the black market.
- Setting a password makes your phone 100% safe
While password protection is a valid measure to secure data, it is not a fix-all solution to all security risks. Your cell phone should have password protection, but also needs other important measures to be implemented (which we are also covering in these 5 bullet points) for more comprehensive protection.
- SMS is a secured means of communication
No, no, no! SMS messages are not encrypted, meaning anyone who knows how to remotely access a mobile phone can access your private messages. SMS messages stay in your phone’s memory and in the provider’s system, who could also theoretically have anyone on the other end viewing your private conversations, especially if you’ve downloaded a third-party messenger.
- Phones don’t need antivirus
Browsing on the internet on your phone is the same as browsing the internet on your computer. Would you trust all your sensitive information (banking, email, contacts) on your computer with zero protections? Then why do you think it’s any safer on your phone? Simply put – it’s NOT, you NEED a trustworthy antivirus installed on your phone.
Unsure how to implement any of these protections for your business? Contact us at 914-934-9775 or email us at info@p-connect.com and ask our representative how you can better protect business data accessed through mobile phones.