Mobile devices have always made tempting targets for malicious hackers, but this is only becoming truer with time. Apple’s iPhone has always been a clear dominating marketing force, so it’s no wonder it became such a popular target for hackers. By identifying potential security holes within the Apple iPhone, whether on a hardware or software level, that haven’t been public knowledge yet, hacking groups get their hands on some precious trade secrets.
Of course, this is an issue that affects Android as well, as no system can honestly say that it is entirely hole-free. Understanding the nature of these threats and how to mitigate them is crucial in ensuring better cybersecurity.
Both Android and iOS market themselves as having some of the absolute best security in the entire industry. With so much sensitive data now being stored on all of our electronic devices, even an average consumer has a lot that they want to keep hidden and private. To remain as safe as possible online, it is vital that users take some simple steps to ensure they understand the interplay between the way they use their account and how likely they are to be hacked.
But some threats are less well-known than others. This presents a challenge when it comes to raising general cybersecurity awareness among smartphone users.
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Android Threats
The most significant difference between Android and iOS is that Android is a much more open system. This means that anyone can design and build their own Android app, and then distribute it to whomever they see fit. While this encourages the community to collaborate, it’s also possible for users to click a download link in their Android web browser, download the Android APK in question, and then execute it. When it comes to trusted packages where the sender is known, the recipient can be confident in its legitimacy. However, therein lies the folly.
Cybersecurity systems today are very powerful. But there are two sides to this equation, one of which is highly exploitable. Even the most sophisticated security systems are only as secure as their weakest link. This vital rule holds true in every aspect of smartphone security. For example, many of the growing Internet of Things (IoT) devices that users install in their homes have been shown to be potential gateways to entire networks.
Of course, the aspect that attracts attackers to Android is its widely used eco-system. Android devices are now a common sight in many smart-homes, as well as places of business. But whether used as part of a harmless prank, or an attempt to access your entire network, they require consideration as surveillance equipment.
Staying Safe
Fortunately, staying safe on Android is becoming easier as time goes on. Many of us can still remember a time when setting up and maintaining a home firewall was a task unto itself. These days, on the other hand, the user has much more granular control over the permissions they allow to other users on the network. Limiting the kind of connections that flow in and out of your home ensures that none of your guests are going to create inadvertent problems by connecting to insecure websites while connected to your network.
Another very common attack vector against Android is creating a fake APK for a popular app and then providing download links to it. This works very well with popular apps that are also discontinued.
One of the best ways of securing your device is to invest in some antivirus software. While we all use antivirus on our laptops and desktops, many of us end up neglecting our smartphones and tablets. Yet antivirus software is very effective.
You should also invest in a VPN provider, click here to check it out. A VPN will encrypt your communications between your device and your VPN provider. This allows you to access region-locked content by making it possible to connect to the internet through another server anywhere in the country. Your communications would then appear to be coming from there.
Android Is Not Flawless
While Android is without a shadow of a doubt one of the most secure operating systems out there, it is not flawless. Google has got much better at ensuring that the stock version of Android, which most still use straight out the box, has more security features by default. But if you want to remain safe on Android, however, you will need to learn a few tricks of your own.
Remember, when it comes to the device you use to do your shopping and banking, and even manage your romantic life, you shouldn’t treat it like an open book for all. Instead, focus on privacy. With a few small steps that anyone can understand, you too could have a more secure Android device.
Be it Apple iPhone or android they are vulnerable to cyberattacks. Cybercriminals should never be underestimated. These malicious cyber thieves can get their hands on some precious trade secrets. If such big companies are vulnerable to cyberattacks every one of you need to realize that how big this threat is and that is why it has to be taken head on and dealt with all seriousness. One best way of countering such attack is to hire the services of leading experts of cybersecurity.
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