What is Mobile Phone Hacking?

Mobile phones and tablets are essential parts of our daily lives. Many people have reached a point where they cannot live without their phones. However, most people are unaware of the security vulnerabilities that these phones have. Mobile hacking refers to unauthorized access, control, and data theft from a phone without the user's permission. Mobile phone hacking is done by taking advantage of vulnerabilities in a phone's Operating System (Android, iOS), security flaws in Apps, or weaknesses in the networks the phone is connected to.

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The Scope of Mobile Hacking

Mobile hacking affects individuals, corporations, and even larger entities.

• Personal data stored on our phones, such as photos, messages, and financial information, are attractive targets for malicious hackers.
• Hackers also try to break into business phones to steal a company's confidential information, business plans, and important Intellectual Property.
• In today's world, hackers use phones as a Gateway to control internet-connected devices such as those used in a Smart Home or cars. For example, if we use WiFi to connect and control everything in our smart home, like the gates and doors, a hacker who gets into that network can control your home's cameras or open your gates.
• Furthermore, hackers often take advantage of weaknesses in mobile banking and Mobile Wallets to steal users' money.

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Why Mobile Phones Are Primary Targets

The main reason why mobile phones are targeted is that you can hit many birds with one stone. Billions of people use mobile phones worldwide. These phones store vast amounts of personal and professional information, making them the most attractive target for hackers. Another reason is that our phones are always connected to networks like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and data, giving hackers constant opportunities to attack. Also, phones contain a lot of confidential information such as passwords, bank account numbers, emails, and other secrets. Some people tend to write these down in note apps. Phones are susceptible to many vulnerabilities because they interact with apps, networks, and other devices. Most users neglect OS updates, use weak passwords, and connect to unsecured Wi-Fi networks, which makes them more vulnerable.

Older versions of Android or iOS often have security issues. Jailbroken (iOS) or Rooted (Android) phones have their built-in security features removed, making them completely insecure. Moreover, users' information can be leaked through apps with poor security. Fake apps that look like legitimate ones can also deceive users and install Malware. Another thing to be aware of is that using Public Wi-Fi can lead to Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) attacks. Also, Malware can get onto your phone through insecure websites and Phishing Links.

Users can also get hacked by clicking on insecure links or downloading suspicious files. Also, using weak passwords or the same password for all accounts is dangerous. When a phone is stolen, the data inside can also be taken, so it is important to secure it properly. Bluetooth, NFC, or SIM card vulnerabilities can also be exploited for unauthorized access to the phone, which is why we need to always be careful to keep our phones secure.