Mobile Security

The mobile phones have become so dynamic and influential that it has all the features of a computer but in a small and compact size. Now-a-days we can find mobile phones in each and every house and almost every individual carries a mobile phone of their own. Mobile phones are multifaceted. Use of mobile phones are not only limited with calling and texting but it is also used for storing personal or professional data, performing most of the tasks which is performed by a computer. But as we rely more and more on mobile phones, mobile threats are also increasing, resulting in the growth of cybercrimes. That is where mobile security comes into the picture, with increasing threats and crime it is important for us secure our mobile phones from all the threats.

Mobile security is also known as wireless security. It deals with safeguarding and protecting smartphones, tablet and all portable computing devices from threats and securing them. It is a vast concept which includes activities such as securing devices and reducing risks, protecting devices from malware threats and cyber attacks.

TYPES OF MOBILE SECURITY

Mobile security can further be classified into two types; they are as follows:

Mobile Device Security:
It is the protection of the device and network connected to it from different threats such as malware.

Mobile Application Security:
Mobile application security deals with securing mobile applications which are installed on the devices on various platforms such as android, IOS, etc.

BEST PRACTICES:
The following are the practices that can be followed for mobile device security:

  1. Endpoint security:

Everyone prefers agility and mobility; we usually deploy network that allow remote access. All the files and processes which are accessed by mobile devices are monitored by endpoint security solutions. It frequently scans for any malicious activity and unusual behavior.

  1. VPN:

VPN stands for virtual private network. It provides us with an encrypted connection over the internet from a device to a network. Our confidential data can be safely transmitted through the connection established by VPN.

  1. Secure Web Gateway:

Secure web gateways are powerful. Cloud security is useful concept which can be used by organizations. Secure web gateways can provide cloud security. Cloud security defends various attacks e.g.: phishing, it works at DNS and IP layer. Identification of attacks is easier with cloud security and it helps prevent the same at other branches. It can easily identify previously occurred attacks and prevent them.

  1. Email Security:

Email is one of the most used business communication tool. But it also one of the most used attack vector. Most of the attackers use email as a medium for attacking the victim. Email security is very crucial and it includes threat protection capabilities, prevention of data loss etc.

  1. Screen locks:

All the devices which are in use can be protected by enabling screen lock set.

  1. GPS:

If in case device is lost through GPS feature, we can trace it.

  1. Remote Wiping:

When mobile is lost all the data inside the mobile phone can be deleted remotely through remote wiping.

  1. Install Antivirus

Install antivirus to protect your device from virus attack 

MOBILE RISKS AND THREATS:

  1. Data Leakage

Most of the time applications are the cause of data leakage, and user grant permissions to the application without keeping in mind security aspects.

  1. Network Spoofing

Network spoofing happens mostly in public places. When a hacker sets up fake access points at public locations, it encourages users to connect to it thereby compromising device security.

  1. Phishing Attacks

Phishing attack is used to steal user?s data. Emails can be easily accessed through mobile phones and email acts as a source by which attack is done. Mobile users are more vulnerable to phishing attacks. Mobile users should be more careful while clicking on email links.

  1. Loss and Theft of Mobile Device

In case a mobile device is stolen or lost it can result into loss of data and unauthorized access to the data. This can also be a threat to mobile security.

CONCLUSION:

Our mobile devices contain sensitive and confidential data. Securing mobile devices is essential. With increasing threats on mobile devices it is evident that we cannot neglect mobile security. There are various approaches which one can follow to attain proper security of their mobile devices. Individuals using mobile phones should be aware of the secure practices that should be followed to keep their mobile phones safe and secure.

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