Mobile phone is target for hackers. It is a device where we can store information of all kinds, so in the event of an attack our data could be compromised. There we can save passwords to log in, records in bank accounts, contacts, etc. In the event that someone manages to enter, they could have access to all of it and impersonate our identity. In this article we are going to talk about what methods can be used to hack our mobile remotely and what to do to always be protected.
How can hackers attack the mobile
Cybercriminals are constantly refining their attack techniques for greater success. But there are methods that can be more successful than others and that is where they can emphasize. In the case of hacking a mobile remotely, there are some options that are used more frequently and should be known.
public networks
One of the options that hackers have to attack a mobile phone remotely is to use public networks. We are talking about a Wi-Fi network like the ones in shopping malls, libraries or airports. They will not need physical access to the phone, but simply that it is connected to that network.
They could create fake networks simply for the purpose of stealing data, infecting through some type of malware, or making the victim click on a link and end up on a page controlled by the attackers. Also, sometimes they create a page to log in and put data to be able to use that Wi-Fi and it really is a scam.
Control SIM access
They could also hack a mobile remotely through SIM control. It should be noted that this method is not simple, but it is one more option that exists. It is what is known as SIM Swapping . Basically what the attacker does is impersonate the identity of the victim and thus create a duplicate of the SIM card to control access to everything.
From there, you could start receiving banking SMS, password recovery, social networks, Gmail… You could have control of many services as if you were really in front of our mobile physically, since you would have control of the SIM card, even if it is a duplicate.
Email malware
Of course, another option is through malicious software that can be emailed to the victim. Email is widely used by everyone and therefore cybercriminals have a very interesting option to attack. Also, keep in mind that this strategy is more successful when it comes to mobile devices.
Through an e-mail they could attach a Word or PDF file that actually contains malware. Once the victim downloads it, it runs and begins to spy, steal data, passwords, etc. It is a method that they can use to hack the mobile remotely and begin to have control without us noticing.
Fake programs
Another problem that is also very present is fake programs. On our mobiles we can have a large number of applications installed. Now, not all of them are going to be safe. We could be installing maliciously modified software. Especially this can affect elderly or young people who do not have enough knowledge to detect fake applications.
This is where the eyeZy application comes into play to avoid these types of problems. Beyond allowing us to know where our children are at all times, they help prevent them from making mistakes when using the phone. You will always be able to know their location, WhatsApp conversations and other applications to detect possible bullying, for example.
Phishing attacks through social networks
Social networks are also widely used by cybercriminals to attack mobile phones remotely. For example services like Facebook or Instagram can be an option. They could use false profiles, send messages, write in publications… In this way they could sneak fraudulent links that lead to sites controlled by attackers.
With Phishing attacks, what they do is look for some pretext to attract the attention of the victim. For example, saying that there has been a problem, that something has to be solved in the social network, etc. It is a bait for the victim to bite.
What to do to be protected
After explaining some common methods to hack a phone remotely, we are going to give some tips to prevent this from happening. The objective is to ensure that our devices are always protected and that we do not have any problems when using them to surf the net or communicate.
Avoid making mistakes
The most important thing of all is to avoid making mistakes and to maintain common sense . In most cases, hackers are going to need you to do something wrong. For example, clicking on a malicious link, installing a fake program, accepting a bot on social networks, etc. In short, they need the action of the victim.
Therefore, always maintain common sense and constant alertness when using the mobile phone. That will help you prevent it from being hacked remotely and putting all the personal data and files you have stored on it at risk.
Keep everything up to date
It is also convenient that you have everything correctly updated . In this way you can correct possible vulnerabilities that may exist and that could pose a problem for security. Sometimes cybercriminals exploit uncorrected bugs and thus gain remote access to a computer.
This is something that you should apply both to the operating system itself as well as to any applications you have. Always use updated software, with the latest versions installed. This will protect your security on the network.
Use a good antivirus
You should always have security programs . You will find a wide range of options, both free and paid. No matter what operating system you’re using, it’s always a good idea to have this type of protection. In this way you will be able to detect malicious software that you may download by mistake, fraudulent files that arrive by mail, etc.
Options like Avast or Bitdefender are a good solution. However, before installing anything, it is convenient that you check that it is really reliable and look for information from other users to detect possible problems.
Install official programs
Another point to prevent your mobile from being hacked remotely is that you use only official software . If you install apps from third-party sites, which are not trustworthy, it can pose a major problem for your security and privacy. It is essential that you install programs only from trusted places.
To do this, you can go to the official page of that application in question or even go to official stores such as Google Play. This way you will make sure that they have passed a filter and you are not adding programs that could really be a fraud.
In short, as you can see, it is possible that they put the security of your mobile remotely at risk. You should always keep your phone in good condition and protected to avoid many problems that compromise privacy.
