Yahoo News Experts warn iPhone and Android owners to switch off devices weekly to prevent sophisticated cyber attacks
A dire warning has been fired out to all iPhone and Android users in the wake of a massive cyber onslaught. Users of both phone types are being advised to power down their devices at least once each week as a defence against cyber hackers - in an attempt to prevent "zero-click" hacks, where spyware can be installed on phones without the user having clicked any link.
This advice is backed up by the National Security Agency (NSA) as it will temporarily jettison information stores that lurk someplace in the background or within internet browsers. The agency cautioned people about making use of public WiFi networks, and stressed the importance of regular updates to phone software and apps.
If mobile phones aren't periodically shut down, there's a risk posed by hackers who might manipulate open web addresses to plant harmful files onto gadgets. Triggering a shutdown and restart effectively logs users out of their banking and social media accounts, thereby averting potential access to sensitive information by hackers.
It imparts the same positive effect in warding off phishing attacks, which involve hackers shooting off malicious emails to grab access to delicate information such as logins or passwords. Surprisingly, nearly half of the phone owners confess to rarely or never switching off their device, determined by a 2015 Pew Research study, reports the Mirror.
While a staggering 82 per cent affirmed they rarely or never toggled their phone on and off.
In addition, the NSA has advised users to regularly update their software and apps to ensure their devices are secure. By updating old software, potential loopholes where data can be accessed are removed. They also recommend disabling Bluetooth when it's not in use to prevent unauthorised access.
However, these measures aren't 100 per cent effective but should provide some protection from malicious activity. The NSA warned: "Threats to mobile devices are more prevalent and increasing in scope and complexity, but added the steps " but added that the steps "provide convenience and capability but sacrifice security."
WiFi networks should also be deleted to prevent cybercriminals from targeting people's phones. It's important to be aware of SSID Confusion Attacks, where you might connect to a cyber attacker's hotspot instead of an official WiFi with a similar network name.
People have also been cautioned about opening email attachments or links from unknown sources, which could result in the installation of malicious software without their knowledge.
Oliver Page, the CEO of cybersecurity company Cybernut, told Forbes: "Falling for social engineering tactics, like responding to unsolicited emails requesting sensitive information, can result in account compromise and identity theft. These phishing attempts often mimic legitimate entities, deceiving individuals into divulging confidential details."
"Trusting phone calls or messages without verification can lead to serious consequences, as scammers manipulate victims into disclosing sensitive information or taking actions that compromise their security."
