Solving everyday issues without a smartphone is almost impossible for most modern people. We use this handy gadget to call and chat, capture photos and shoot videos, play our favorite games, read books, pay for the products or services and store confidential information as well. That’s why smartphones have become an attractive target for fraudsters and hackers, and what’s more, they don’t even need to touch your phone to access sensitive data or infect it with malware.
So, how can hackers hack into a phone remotely? And how to protect your smartphone from a hacker attack? Let’s discover the answers.
The Most Common Ways to Hack a Phone Remotely
There are many ways to cyberattack devices. Almost every user is at risk of being hacked when using their phone because hackers use such tricky methods that do not raise suspicion. So, to avoid Android or iPhone troubleshooting as a result of being hacked remotely, discover the main tactics the hackers may use to attack a device and learn the simple safety rules to protect your phone from data leaks.
With the Help of Apps
Hacking your phone with the help of an app is the top way fraudsters access sensitive data. Downloading apps from unofficial sources, always remember that there is a risk that your data may be stolen. Moreover, you should be extremely careful when downloading apps from trusted sources. Many tools require permission to access your data, which can lead to your smartphone being hacked.
Every time an app requests access to some category of your files, it is worth evaluating the appropriateness of such permission. For example, a photo editing tool does not need access to your contacts. So, checking out such issues when you download new apps is necessary. Also, never allow the apps to track your data and behavior without understanding why the app actually needs it.
With the Wi-Fi Connection
As for another way to hack into your phone remotely, keep in mind that attackers can use Wi-Fi connections to access personal data. Cyber attackers create fake Wi-Fi, which often has direct access. That means it does not require a password to use a Wi-Fi connection. To protect your data from being hacked, avoid connecting to public Wi-Fi connections. Attackers can redirect you to a site after visiting which they can access everything stored on your phone.
With the Texts and Emails
Most users know about the danger of phishing emails and spammy messages. Sending them is one of the common ways to hack into your smartphone. Nevertheless, some users still become victims of such fraudulent attempts.
Usually, such messages look natural and do not raise suspicion. Malefactors specify the link. After you’ve clicked on it, they can get your data. Just one click puts your phone at risk. Therefore, if you receive an email or text with a link, you should not follow it immediately. Open links only from trusted sources to protect your data and your smartphone.
How to Secure Your Phone From Being Hacked Remotely?
So, how to prevent the risk of your smartphone being hacked? To minimize the risks of hacking, follow the next simple tips.
Use specialized apps to protect your smartphone. There are a lot of tools to protect your phone not only from viruses but also from hacker attacks on the Internet. Such apps will allow you to use the Internet safely and block dangerous links and sites.
Do not follow suspicious links. This rule applies to both your email and text messages. Before you follow the link, you should ensure that the letter is not fake and that clicking on the link will not result in the threat of hacking your data.
Use a secure network connection. Avoid connecting to unknown Wi-Fi and public network hotspots.
Use VPN apps. To secure your time on the Internet, use VPN apps, especially when connecting to an insecure Wi-Fi network.
Avoid downloading apps from third-party sites. Instead, give preference to official markets where apps are verified to avoid downloading malicious apps.
Study the access requests for every app. Apps may request access to various information. For most tools, the set of required data is limited. If you see the app asking for too many data accesses, it’s worth rejecting it and looking for a more secure alternative.
Wrapping Up
A little attention to the security of your smartphone can prevent the risk of hacking and loss of personal data. The hackers are well aware of the fact that the users know smartphone data safety rules but are just inattentive or sure that a cyberattack will never happen to them. Therefore, use the above tips and be careful. This will help avoid the risk of your smartphone being hacked remotely.
Christine Tomas is a tech expert, consultant, and aspiring writer. She writes for different news portals and thematic blogs that helps her stay at the heart of the programming and technology news. Such work gives her the opportunity to write articles on the most relevant topics today.
