Malware on mobile devices has increased by 96% as per Threat Intelligence Report released by Nokia for the first half of 2016. Android, as usual, was the worst affected with 74% of total mobile malware infections.
As the world is becoming more and more inclined to mobile devices, it has become one of the preferred targets of hackers and cyber criminals. Mobile malware can cause serious damages like corrupting your valuable data or passing your confidential information to hackers. Even your phone may get completely disabled due to a malware attack.
Infected by malware, you may face sudden phone bill shock. An SMS spamming botnet called Spam Soldier made headlines in 2012. The targeted victims get an SMS with offers of free games and other benefits, which can only be received by downloading the malicious app on their phone. Once the app is installed, it keeps sending spam SMSs to others without permission of the user. The result can be a huge bill shock.
If you feel your phone battery drains quickly than usual, it’s time to be alert. A probable reason could be a malware infection as malware usually performs its activities in the background, which will make your phone to work double-time without your knowledge.
One of the most common symptoms of a malware infection, mobile OS becomes non-responding often. You are unable to open apps or perform regular activities easily.
Always download apps from trusted source as you may become a victim of any unwanted malware. Google Play is the best place for all Android users and to get apps from anywhere else, you have to enable installation from third-party sources and be ready for any risk that may come with it.
Always keep your mobile operating system up-to-date. Weak & obsolete operating system may be more vulnerable to malware attacks.
Use a mobile antivirus software for malware removal and to keep your device secured from viruses & cyber crooks. You may be performing online transactions on your mobile and without an antivirus software, there’s always a risk of your financial information getting leaked by any unauthorized intruder.