Smartphones are essential devices for communication, entertainment, and productivity in the digital era. But their wide use also makes them easy targets for hackers. You might be a hacker’s next target: “Can someone hack my phone?” the answer is yes, though how and what protocols might be put in place to prevent all of this is really the next step to take in preventing your device from being struck by an evil hacker.
How does someone hack a phone?
1. Phishing Scams
Hacker frequently use phishing to get users to give away sensitive information. They dispatch bogus emails, texts or social media messages that are designed to steal passwords or access credentials.
2. Public Wi-Fi Networks
If you connect to unsecured public Wi-Fi, your device might be attacked with man-in-the-middle attacks, with hackers intercepting the data that travels through the network.
3. Malware and Spyware
Downloading apps from untrustworthy sources or clicking on shady links can put malware on your phone. And spyware, specifically, can help monitor your activity and steal sensitive data.
4. SIM Swapping
This is when hackers call your mobile carrier and convince them to transfer your phone number to a new SIM card in their possession so they can intercept calls and texts.
5. Bluetooth Vulnerabilities
This can give hackers access to your phone when you have an open or unsecured Bluetooth connection.
Reassuring Signs That Your Phone Is Actually Not Hacked
- Unexplained Battery Drain: Malicious software runs in the background, which eats up power.
- Pop-ups That Pop Up Unexpectedly: One way to tell if you have adware infections is through frequent pop-ups.
- Slow Performance: If your phone starts acting slow out of the blue, it may be malicious software.
- Unknown Apps: Look for apps that were installed without your knowledge.
- High Data Usage Video: Unusual data usage may indicate unauthorized activity.
How to Protect Your Phone from Hacking
1. Use Passwords that are Strong & Biometrics
Use a strong password to lock your phone, or a PIN, or biometric authentication like a fingerprint or face recognition.
2. Set Up Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
The 2FA provides an additional level of security that requires a second type of verification.
3. Keep Your Software Up to Date
Keep your OS and apps updated to fix security bugs.
4. Do Not Click on Untrusted Links and Downloads
If you are still on mobile, only download apps from trusted users and official stores, such as Google Play or the App Store and avoid clicking unknown or spammy links.
5. Be Cautious on Public Wi-Fi
If you are using public Wi-Fi, use a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your data.
6. Switch off Bluetooth when not in use
When Bluetooth is not being used, removing that access reduces the potential of being hacked.
7. Monitor Your Accounts
Check your accounts regularly for unauthorized activity, and enable alerts for unusual logins.
What To Do If Your Phone’s Been Hacked
- Log off from the Internet: Disable Wi-Fi and mobile, so even you cannot be breached in future.
- Conduct a Security Scan: Run reliable antivirus program to detect and eliminate harmful files.
- Reset Your Device: If the problem continues, try a factory reset, but don’t forget to create a backup of important files first.
- Inform Authorities: Report the incident to your mobile provider, and to the relevant cybercrime authorities.
Conclusion
Although it may seem scary that someone could compromise your phone, staying informed and taking action will go a long way toward preventing this crime. By applying best practices and being aware of warning signs, you can protect your personal data and keep your device under your control. As always at Cybersecurity, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
