Everything you need to know about Mobile Security Threats in 2019

Mobile data security seems to have grabbed the headlines these days. And this has become one of the topmost worries in every industry. With tons and tons of data being generated by these enterprises, data security becomes a great matter of concern. Like it or not, but the reality is that the chances of sensitive data going in wrong hands are extremely high and the problem is becoming an intricate puzzle. So what to do? The following post emphasizes on mobile security threats that are increasing day-by-day.

Let’s focus on the sensational subject of malware for starters. Being incredibly common in the real world, mobile malware has the potential to impact as high as being struck by lightning. Down below I would like you to get acquainted with some realistic mobile security hazards lie in some easily overlooked areas. In case, if you ignore these chances are there, they might end up becoming more pressing as we make our way.

Data Leakage

No matter how bizarre this sounds, but data leakage is one of the most worrisome threats to enterprise security in 2019. Can you recall those nonexistent odds of being infected with malware? And speaking of the term data breach, companies have a nearly 28 percent chance of experiencing at least one incident in the next two years. Now what I am more curious to know is that these issues aren’t nefarious by nature; rather, it’s a matter of users inadvertently making ill-advised decisions about which apps can see and transfer their information.  

Right from transferring company files onto a public cloud storage service, pasting confidential info in the wrong place, or forwarding an email to an unintended recipient, data loss includes everything. It is advisable to consider data loss prevention (DLP) tools as one of the most effective forms of protection. Also, you can prevent the exposure of sensitive information, including in accidental scenarios.

Malware sites disguised with SSL certificates

Gone are the days when people were unaware of the significance of padlock in the address bar. With more and more hackers gaining an SSL certification without difficulty, the rise of malicious sites becomes inevitable. LetsEncrypt, a certificate issuer, offers SSL certificates with no payment information, no genuine PII is required. Available for free, website owners no longer require padlock for a reliable safety check.   

WiFi Interference

Another major reason causing the mobile security threat includes WiFi interference. As a user, you must know that you will be able to protect your data as long as the network you choose to transmit is safe. In the present scenario, where we all are found connecting public WiFis to access business important content, the chances of data exposure are incredibly high. According to several types of research, enterprise mobile devices use WiFi almost three times of the cellular data. Do you know where do we lack behind? It’s when we find a free and unsecured WiFi, we don’t even give a second thought and like a greedy people just jump to connect with that WiFi. There is a high risk of data loss, and it’s not only to industry but, also chances of personal data leakage from connected smartphones exist. Threats like a man-in-the-middle attack, man-in-the-cloud attack, etc., especially occur on these public WiFi networks only. So be very careful!

Physical Device Breaches

Mobile cloud security is something that happens because of nothing but our own careless nature. One of the major mobile security threat in 2019 is an unattended or lost device especially when a sharp pin or password is not imposed on the smartphone. Even the well-educated persons don’t use encryption to protect their records. In fact, another shocking truth was that ‘people share their smartphone passwords or PIN with a second person making business secretive data accessible for another person also.’ We are sorry to say this, but there is no automated solution to this solution. What needs to be done is be aware of your device and its security on a thorough basis.

Cryptojacking attacks

This one is new where someone uses a device to mine for cryptocurrency without the owner’s knowledge. Well, I won’t get into all the technical mumbo-jumbo since we don’t have much time to explain things here. It’s more like using someone else’s device for your personal gain. And one of the common signs of encountering a crypto jacking attack includes affected phones will probably experience poor battery life and could even suffer from damage due to overheating components.

Although, cryptocurrency mining apps have been banned from Apple’s iOS App Store and the Android-associated Google Play Store still attacks continue to see some level of success via mobile websites or maybe through apps downloaded from unofficial third-party markets. The only possibility of crypto jacking via internet-connected set-top boxes, which some businesses may use for streaming and video casting. For now, there’s no great answer — aside from selecting devices carefully. Have a policy that requires users to download apps only from a platform’s official storefront, where the potential for crypto jacking code is markedly reduced — and realistically. Most of the companies when realizing any significant or immediate threat need to take preventative measures as soon as possible.

Best Practices to Take into Account

• Insist on Mobile Malware Protection- Make sure each smartphone in use is equipped with mobile malware protection. Have remote access so that you can wipe the data if the phone is lost or stolen.  
• Use Strong Authentication- Encrypted data and strong password protection can create wonders. Also, consider locking users out after three unsuccessful remote log-in attempts.
• Come up with some separate mobile gateways- Mobile data can be easily routed through special gateways with customized firewalls and security.
• Control risk from third-party software – Try adopting policies to limit or block the use of third-party software to prevent installations of rogue software.
• How about using Over-the-Air Security Updates? – This will keep your smartphone free from the latest bug and other security fixes.

At The End

Again I am saying the risks of mobile security can pose a severe danger for companies now and then. It’s time to stop corporate mobile devices from becoming an attack vector; it is vital to combine cybersecurity training for our employees with the use of the best-advanced cybersecurity solutions.