iPhone and Android users recommended to have weekly phone shutdowns to combat spyware threats

An urgent warning has been issued to all iPhone and Android users following a significant cyberattack. Mobile phone users are being strongly advised to power down their devices at least once a week as a defence against sophisticated cyber hackers.

This advice comes in the wake of concerns over "zero-click" attacks, where spyware can be installed on phones without the user clicking on anything suspicious. The recommendation has received backing from the National Security Agency (NSA), highlighting that rebooting phones can disrupt the temporary data caches active in background processes or within internet browsers.

The NSA has also cautioned against the use of public WiFi networks and stressed the importance of keeping phone software and applications up to date.

Failing to regularly restart phones could leave them vulnerable to hackers who exploit open web sessions to push through harmful files. Turning a device off and then on again effectively logs the user out of banking and social media platforms, thereby blocking hacker access to personal and sensitive data.

READ MORE: Five signs your device has been hacked and what Google recommends

This preventative measure is equally effective against phishing attempts, where hackers send deceitful emails aiming to extract critical information like login credentials or passwords. Surprisingly, a Pew Research study from 2015 revealed that nearly half of mobile phone owners seldom or never shut down their phones, with 82% indicating they rarely or never cycle their power on and off, reports the Mirror.

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.

It's also recommended to disable Bluetooth when it's not in use to prevent unauthorised access to devices.

However, these measures aren't 100% 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 warned 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."