What Are the Biggest Cyber Security Risks on Android?
Android devices are becoming increasingly popular, and as a result, they are also becoming a prime target for cybercriminals. There are many different cyber security risks that Android users need to be aware of.
To help you understand the risks and the dangers, we’ll discuss the biggest cyber security risks on Android devices, how to spot them, protect against them, and tips to prevent a device from being infected.
The Biggest Security Risks to Android Devices
One of the biggest cyber security risks on Android devices is malicious apps.
These are apps that specifically aim to infect a device with malware or steal sensitive information. When downloading apps, it’s important to only download them from sources you trust such as the Google Play Store.
It’s also important to read reviews and check ratings before downloading an app.
If you’re working in a commercial environment with a possible insider threat, it might be worth installing blocks that prevent users from installing any apps they want and instead have to stick with what you allow.
Another big risk to Android devices is phishing attacks.
This is where a cybercriminal will send an email or text message that appears to be from a legitimate company or organization. The message will usually contain a link that, when clicked, takes the user to a fake website that looks very similar to the real thing.
These attacks aim to trick the user into entering their login details or other sensitive information. To protect against phishing attacks, it is important to only click on links from trusted sources and to be wary of any unexpected emails or messages.
Finally, Android devices are also at risk of malware through third-party app stores. These are websites or app stores that are not affiliated with Google.
They may offer pirated or cracked versions of paid apps, which can contain malware.
Do Android Security Risks Affect Businesses?
Yes. Absolutely.
If your business uses Android devices, for example, your employees use them to send data and information and access your work network spaces, accounts, and other data; you could be at risk of a cyberattack.
How to Spot Cybersecurity Risks on Android Devices
Several signs indicate that your Android device may have been infected with malware or is otherwise at risk of being hacked. These include:
- Unusual pop-ups or ads appearing on your device
- Your device is running slowly
- Battery life is shorter than usual
- Unusual data usage
- Apps crashing or freezing
- New apps appearing on your device that you didn’t download
If you notice any of these signs, it is important to take action immediately. First, try restarting your device. If the issue persists, consider running a virus scan. There are many free and paid antivirus apps available for Android.
How to Protect Against Cybersecurity Risks on Android Devices
You can do several things to protect your Android device from hacking and malware. These include:
- Only download apps from sources you trust
- Keep your device and apps up to date
- Use a secure password manager
- Use a VPN while using public or unsecured networks
- Hire a business IT support company in Sydney to help protect your business on your behalf
- Don’t click on links from unknown sources
- Be wary of phishing attacks
Following these tips can help you stay safe from the biggest cyber security risks on Android devices.
Summary
While it’s true that Android devices can be at a high risk of hacking or act as the entry point of a cybersecurity breach within your business, with a bit of knowledge, know-how, and where-with-all, you can quite easily protect yourself and your users.
Through awareness, promoting a mindful culture within your workforce, and putting security measures in place, your business can dramatically reduce the risk of an attack and help to keep your operations safe.
