Bart's Blog

USA Today had an interesting article recently on the rise in malicious software for smartphones, especially during the holidays. As mobile users increasingly use one smartphone for personal and business use, smartphone security is becoming an important business concern. Once compromised, hackers can use a smartphone to get behind corporate firewalls and wreak havoc on your business’s Wi-Fi. With holiday shopping in full swing, and more consumers shopping on their smartphone, the smartphone becomes an increasingly lucrative prey.

One of the ways hackers are compromising smartphones is via malicious apps. This problem mostly affects Android devices, since Apple’s App Store has a screening process for its offerings. (However, if you’ve jail broken your iPhone, you’re just as vulnerable as Android users.) Especially during the holidays, be vigilant of apps promising special bargains and coupons. Remember, if a deal is too good to be true, it’s probably too good to be true. Games, music and ringtones are also used often to lure the app-happy consumer. Try to stick with trusted apps from companies with good reputations. You can always do a search for the app in your web browser before downloading to see what others are saying about it.

Apps aren’t the only way hackers can attack your phone. Just like your computer, viruses and malware can spread through your mobile web browser. Be sure to check for the “https” in the web address to know you’re at a secure site before sharing your valuable personal data.

The holidays have always been known as a time for family, friends, gifts, excessive amounts of desserts, and unfortunately, scams. As technology becomes more important in our world, there are even more ways for hackers to disrupt your hardware and your life. When holiday shopping, via mobile or your computer, be extra diligent. And if sharing a device between work and home, remember that it’s not just your information you’re putting at risk.

image: Osman Kalkavan