Mobile Cyber Attacks & Threats to Look Out For – Tech Tip For July 11, 2023

Mobile devices have increasingly become an integral part of our professional lives, but with that comes a growing threat of cyber attacks and new opportunities for malware. In fact, over 80% of reported phishing attacks target mobile devices in some way – either mobile-only or a combination of mobile and desktop. To protect the data of employees, owners, and the business itself, organizations need to expand their mobile security measures.

In this month’s Tech Tips, we’re tackling the growing number of mobile cyber attacks and what your business can do to stay safe from attackers.

Consequences of Mobile Cyber Attacks:

• Data Breaches: Mobile devices often store and access sensitive company data, including intellectual property, customer information, and financial records.
• Financial Loss: Cybercriminals aim to profit from their attacks, so their first step is often to gain unauthorized access to your mobile banking applications, steal financial credentials, or initiate fraudulent transactions, causing significant financial losses.
• Operational Disruption: Mobile malware can infect devices and disrupt business operations, rendering them inoperable or significantly slowing them down.

Types of Mobile Threats to Look Out For

• Phishing: Users click a spam link and subsequently provide personal data (such as passwords and credit card details) through fake websites or apps.
• Physical Theft: If someone steals your mobile device, they can obtain access to your personal and business information if your phone is not secured and locked with a passcode.
• Open Wifi Networks: When you’re using a public wifi network, an attacker can intercept communication between your browser and your mobile device to eavesdrop, manipulate or steal data.
• Ransomware: This malicious software blocks access to your computer system or files and demands payment.
• SIM Hijacking: Usually a targeted attack where a hacker takes control of your phone number by transferring it to a new SIM card.
• Nuisanceware: Designed to cause annoyance or inconvenience to the user, such as displaying pop-up ads or changing browser settings without permission.
• Spyware: Collects sensitive information from a computer or mobile device without the user’s knowledge or consent, including keystrokes, browsing history, and personal data.
• Financial Trojans: Fake banking apps that resemble legitimate ones to steal users’ login credentials and sensitive financial information

In the following Tech Tip, we’ll discuss some ways you can prevent mobile attacks, but you should take immediate action to protect your business from mobile cyber threats. Contact TechWise Group to learn how our services can fortify your mobile defenses and secure your business information.

Important Microsoft Announcements:

• If you have not already moved to NCE licensing for your organization or if you have any questions about upcoming renewals, please contact us at gettechwise@techwisegroup.com to understand your options.
• MFA is the best way to prevent cyberthreats. If you have not enabled MFA in your organization, let us help you put a plan in place.
• Windows Server 2012 and 2012 R2 Extended Support ended on October 10, 2023. If your organization is still running these operating systems, please contact us to discuss your options.
• Microsoft has expanded Copilot licensing for small-to-medium businesses (January 15, 2024). Reach out to TechWise Group to discuss your options.
• April 1, 2024, Microsoft announced global changes to Teams licensing. Please reach out to TechWise Group with any questions.
• Classic Teams client reaches end of availability. Microsoft extends time to July 01, 2024, for Admins to address any related issues.
• July 9, 2024, marks the end of support (EOS), for SQL Server 2014. Please reach out to TechWise Group to explore your options.
• Windows 10 reaches the end of support on October 14, 2025. Please contact us to discuss your options.