Although we often care about cybersecurity in our computers that almost always include an antivirus, this concern does not extend to mobile phones. Although we use them much more and are an extension of our digital life. And constantly connect to the Internet, with the dangers that it generates.
According to a report made by the ESET cybersecurity company, last year occurred A 335% increase in scams that use Deepfakes and business brands on social networksused to deceive users and promote fraudulent investments that mainly affect mobile devices users.
The figures reflect a pattern: the attackers know that Mobile devices are vulnerable, and not only on social networks. The automatic Wi-Fi connection is the weak point that many overlook and that it can expose private information without the user being conscious.
The report warns about new tactics that cybercriminals are using these devices. One of them is the use of progressive web applications (PWA for its acronym in English, basically those that are discharged directly from a website) and webapk to overcome traditional security measures in Android and iOS. Both tools They can be exploited to theft of information, introduction of malware, phishing and other cybercrime tactics. With this type of techniques, the danger is no longer only in malicious applications, but also in the way in which the devices are connected to the Internet, including public Wi-Fi networks.
For example, if we have activated the automatic connection to Wi-Fi networks, The phone could connect without realizing open networks or even malicious networks created by cybercriminals.
“Many users are confident that their device connects only to safe networks, but the reality is that cybercriminals can clone legitimate Wi -Fi networks and capture the connection of the devices without the user noticing it -says Josep Albors, director of Research of ESET Spain -. This allows them to intercept data and access bank credentials, emails or private conversations. These attacks are more frequent than people imagine. Mobile devices usually prioritize the connection to known networks, which facilitates that the attackers replicate and deceive users without perceiving the risk. ”
Thus, Open Wi-Fi networks are one of the most exploited environments by cybercounts. Connecting to them without adequate security measures can expose users to multiple threats.
To protect yourself from these risks, there are six recommendations indicated by experts. The first one is to deactivate the automatic connection to Wi-Fi networks in the configuration of your device. Yes, even to the acquaintances. Just activate them once we are in a place we know. It is also advisable to use a VPN or virtual private network, to prevent third parties from intercepting our signal.
Obviously, it is important to avoid introducing sensitive data (passwords, document numbers, etc.) on websites while connected to a public Wi-Fi network. And maintain the operating system and updated applications to correct possible security failures.
Finally, although it can often be heavy, it is advisable Activate authentication in two factors In all accounts to add an extra protection layer. And to that, add an antivirus or security system.