Protect Your Apps From Ransomware

January 17, 2020 | Ananya S

Ransomware attacks are on the rise everywhere. Besides targeting business networks and personal computers, ransomware is becoming a common threat to mobile platforms too. Mobile internet has grown by more than 504% since 2011. As more and more people use their phones to go online, more cybercriminals will hear the call.

What is mobile malware?

Mobile malware is malicious software that is specifically built to attack mobile phones or smartphones. A cybercriminal can use mobile malware to steal sensitive data from a smartphone or lock a device before demanding payment to unlock the device.

Ransomware attacks can take on several forms. Two are particularly common. Known as crypto-ransomware where attackers take over your device and encrypt its files. To regain access to your data, the ransom will have to be paid. The second kind is known as locker ransomware. Here instead of encrypting files, it denies access to a device by locking the user interface.

Reports suggest that 97 percent of organizations globally in 2020 faced mobile threats that used multiple attack vectors and more than 40 percent had at least one employee download a malicious mobile app. Mobile malware has risen drastically in the last couple of years. There is a growing trend away from computers and towards smartphones and it is more important than ever to protect yourself from malware.

Ways to stay secure

Here are some ways by which you can ensure data and mobile app security.

1. Avoid third party stores

Always download apps from the respective companies’ app stores only. Google Play Store and Apple’s App store have mechanisms built in to screen new apps before they are allowed inside. This minimizes the spread of malicious code. Downloading apps from third-party app stores is quite risky with some of them being a haven for malicious apps. They may act as a gateway for malware to enter your device and steal information. As such, be very careful while downloading new apps and make sure that you download only from recognized app stores.

2. Visit secure websites

Websites containing the most up-to-date malware defense carry HTTPS security certificates and the ones carrying only the HTTP certificate are not as secure anymore. If a website contains the only HTTP in its URL then it will be advisable not to visit these websites as they are susceptible to being used as malware injection platforms. Also, run only default OS browsers rather than third-party ones which may not issue security certificates to individual websites.

3. Use popular security apps

Download antivirus apps from established companies. Modern mobile antivirus apps regularly screen your phone for malware and other harmful additions and disable them before they can inflict any damage. For example, an app like Malwarebytes can detect dangerous threats and remove them before your mobile phone gets compromised. It also alerts you if it detects anything suspicious to ensure a safe browsing experience.

4. Set a password

Setting a strong password is a great way to defend against intrusions. Passwords may seem like a hassle when you use the device several times an hour to check messages, use apps, or play games, but it is really the best way to prevent anyone else from accessing your personal information without your permission. Nowadays you can protect your smartphone by activating a fingerprint sensor or the iris scanner. These cannot be cracked and will protect your data even if your phone is misplaced or stolen. These biometric details are unique for every user and are quite effective.

5. Backup all files

It is always a good idea to back up all files. This will come in handy not only if your device is held for ransom but also if you lose or damage your phone.

6. Update your operating system

You need to update your operating system as soon as a new version becomes available. Malware can penetrate your defense if you keep running an outdated OS. Updating your software as often as possible not only protects you against malware but also keeps your smartphone running in the best state.

To get maximum protection from malware, you should never delay the download of security patches for OS, apps, and plugins.

We at SDI have been developing secure mobile apps that offer maximum protection against ransomware. Our testing methodologies are strong and we ensure that all aspects are covered during testing. By using the latest technologies and robust security measures, we build apps that can face any threat. Our app code is extremely difficult to reverse engineer and ensures critical data and security.

If you’d like to have a well-built and secure app for your business, call us today at 408.621.8481 or email us at team@sdi.la.

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