How to Protect Your Phone from Hacking | Comprehensive Guide

How to protect your phone from hacking | Our smartphones are more than just devices for making calls and sending messages—they contain our personal information, from contact lists to financial data. Unfortunately, this also makes them prime targets for hackers. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore what phone hacking entails, how it can happen, its potential impacts, signs that your phone may be compromised, preventive measures, and steps to take if your phone is already hacked.

What Does Hacking Your Phone Mean?

In simple words, phone hacking refers to unauthorised access to your device or its data by cybercriminals and this affects your privacy and safety. This can involve various methods, including malware, phishing, or exploiting software vulnerabilities.

How Can Hacking Happen?

Hacking your device can occur through various methods, each presenting unique challenges and risks. In this section, we will explain these methods in detail to provide a comprehensive understanding of the diverse avenues through which hackers can compromise your device and its data.

Malicious Apps:

Downloading apps from untrusted sources is a common pitfall that can lead to malware infections on your device. Here are some examples and scenarios:

Third-Party App Stores: Many users are tempted to download apps from third-party app stores like Aptoide, ACMarket, TutuApp, AppValley, These apps offer pirated or modded versions of popular apps. For instance, downloading a paid app for free from an unofficial source may seem like a good deal, but it could come with malware.
Unverified Websites: Some websites claim to offer exclusive apps or software updates outside of official app stores. Users may unknowingly download malware disguised as legitimate applications from these sites.
Fake Apps: Cybercriminals often create fake versions of popular apps and upload them to app stores. These apps may mimic the functionality of the original app while secretly containing malware. For example, a fake banking app may look identical to the legitimate one but could steal your login credentials.

Phishing:

Phishing attacks rely on social engineering tactics to deceive users into disclosing sensitive information. Here’s how they can manifest:

Email Phishing: You receive an email that appears to be from a trusted organization, such as your bank or a popular online retailer. The email contains a link prompting you to update your account information or verify your identity. Clicking on the link takes you to a fake website designed to steal your login credentials.
Text Message Phishing (Smishing): You receive a text message claiming to be from a legitimate source, such as a delivery service or a government agency. The message instructs you to click on a link or call a number to claim a prize or resolve an issue. By doing so, you unwittingly provide sensitive information to the attacker.
Website Phishing: You visit a website that looks identical to a legitimate site, such as an online banking portal or a social media platform. However, the website is a clever replica created by cybercriminals to harvest login credentials and other personal data entered by unsuspecting users.

Network Vulnerabilities:

Weak Wi-Fi connections and unsecured networks can create opportunities for hackers to intercept data transmitted between your device and the internet. Consider the following scenarios:

Open Wi-Fi Networks: You connect to an open Wi-Fi network at a coffee shop or airport without realizing that it lacks encryption or password protection. Hackers lurking on the same network can use packet sniffing tools to capture unencrypted data packets, including login credentials and sensitive information.
Router Exploitation: Cybercriminals may exploit vulnerabilities in routers or other networking equipment to launch attacks on connected devices. For example, they could exploit default passwords or outdated firmware to gain unauthorized access to the router’s settings and intercept traffic passing through it.

Software Exploits:

Outdated operating systems and applications are prime targets for hackers seeking to exploit known vulnerabilities. Consider the following examples:

Unpatched Software: You neglect to install software updates and security patches on your device, leaving it vulnerable to known exploits. For instance, a vulnerability in a popular messaging app could allow hackers to execute arbitrary code on your device by sending a specially crafted message.
End-of-Life Devices: Manufacturers may stop providing updates and support for older devices, leaving them susceptible to exploits that remain unaddressed. Hackers may target these devices knowing that users are unlikely to receive patches for newly discovered vulnerabilities.

Physical Access:

losing or misplacing it can still pose a security risk. If someone finds your lost device, they may attempt to access its contents. Depending on the device’s security settings, this could be as simple as swiping through the lock screen or attempting to reset the device to factory settings to gain access.

How Can It Affect You?

There are so many ways in which hacking your phone can affect you, and here are some of the risks that you may face:

Identity Theft:

Hackers gaining access to your personal information can lead to identity theft, where they use stolen data such as bank account details, social security numbers, or login credentials to impersonate you online. This can result in fraudulent activities, and unauthorized purchases.

Financial Loss:

Once hackers obtain your financial data, they can exploit it for fraudulent transactions, unauthorized withdrawals, or other illicit activities. This can result in substantial financial losses for the victim, as funds may be siphoned from bank accounts, credit cards may be maxed out, or investments may be compromised.

Privacy Breach:

Phone hacking can lead to a breach of privacy, exposing sensitive information such as private messages, photos, videos, or personal conversations. This breach of privacy can have profound emotional and psychological effects, causing distress, embarrassment, or even blackmail if the compromised data is used against the victim.

Device Damage:

Certain types of malware employed in phone hacking can wreak havoc on your device, rendering it unusable or causing it to malfunction. This can range from disrupting normal device functions to completely incapacitating the device, making it difficult or impossible to use for communication, productivity, or other essential tasks.

How Would You Know If Your Phone Is Hacked?

There are several signs may indicate that your phone has been compromised:

Unexplained Data Usage:

Background Data Consumption: If you notice significant data usage despite minimal or no activity on your device, it could indicate that malware is running in the background and transmitting data to remote servers. This data could include personal information, browsing history, or other sensitive data.

Excessive Background Processes: Check your device’s settings or use task manager apps like Task Manager, GSam Battery Monitor, and 3C Task Manager for Android, and iOS System Monitor, and System Status for iOS to monitor background processes. If you observe unusually high CPU or network activity from unknown processes, it may suggest malicious activity.

Data Overages: Unexpectedly exceeding your data plan limits or receiving alerts about high data usage without corresponding activity on your part could be a red flag for unauthorised data transmission.

Battery Drain:

Abnormal Battery Usage: Malicious software often consumes significant battery power to run background processes or perform unauthorised activities. If you notice your battery draining faster than usual, especially when your device is idle or not in use, it could be a sign of malware.

Overheating: In addition to battery drain, malware may cause your device to heat up excessively due to increased processing activity. If your phone feels unusually hot to the touch, even when performing simple tasks, it could indicate malicious activity.

Unusual Behavior:

Pop-up Ads and Redirects: Unexpected pop-up ads, redirects to unfamiliar websites, or intrusive advertisements appearing on your device, especially when using unrelated apps or browsing the internet, may indicate the presence of adware or other malicious software.

App Installs Without Permission: If you notice new apps installed on your device without your consent, particularly those you don’t recognize or remember downloading, it could be a sign of malware injecting unwanted software onto your device.

Frequent Crashes or Freezes: Malware or security breaches can destabilize your device’s operating system, leading to frequent crashes, freezes, or unresponsiveness. If your device experiences these issues regularly, especially after performing routine tasks, it may indicate a security breach.

Unauthorized Activity:

Suspicious Transactions: Review your bank and credit card statements regularly for unauthorized transactions or unfamiliar charges. Hackers may use stolen financial information obtained through phone hacking to make fraudulent purchases or withdrawals.

Phishing Emails or Texts: If you receive emails or text messages claiming to be from legitimate organizations, such as your bank or social media platforms, requesting sensitive information or prompting you to click on links, it could be a phishing attempt aimed at stealing your login credentials or personal data.

Locked Out of Accounts: If you find yourself locked out of your accounts due to multiple failed login attempts or receive notifications of login attempts from unfamiliar locations or devices, it could indicate that your accounts have been compromised.

How to Protect Your Phone From Hacking?

let’s expand on ways to protect your phone from hacking, including utilizing device settings, tracking apps, and general security measures:

1. Device Settings:

There are so many things we can do from the device settings to protect our devices from hacking, these include:

Passcode or Biometric Locks:

Setting up a strong passcode or using biometric authentication like fingerprint or facial recognition is crucial for preventing unauthorized access to your device.

iOS Devices (iPhone/iPad):

Open the “Settings” app on your iOS device.
Scroll down and tap on “Face ID & Passcode” (or “Touch ID & Passcode” for older devices).
Enter your current passcode.
Tap on “Turn Passcode On” if it’s not already enabled.
Choose whether you want to use Face ID (if available) or set up a passcode.
If setting up a passcode, enter a secure passcode twice to confirm.

Android Devices (varies by device and version):

Open the “Settings” app on your Android device.
Scroll down and tap on “Security” (or “Security & Location” or similar).
Look for an option like “Screen Lock” or “Lock Screen” and tap on it.
You may be prompted to enter your current PIN, password, or pattern.
Select the type of screen lock you want to use (e.g., PIN, password, pattern).
Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your chosen screen lock method.

Screen Lock Timeout:

Configuring your device to automatically lock after a period of inactivity enhances security by ensuring that if your device is left unattended, it requires authentication to regain access, reducing the risk of unauthorized access or data breaches.

iOS Devices

Go to Settings > Display & Brightness > Auto-Lock.

Android Devices

Settings > Security > Screen Lock > Automatically lock.

Lock Your SIM Card:

When you lock your SIM card with a PIN, password, or other security measure, it prevents unauthorized users from accessing your device’s network services. Without the correct PIN or password, the SIM card cannot be used to make calls, send texts, or access mobile data. To lock your SIM card, follow these steps:

iOS Devices:

Open the “Settings” app on your iOS device.
Scroll down and tap on “Face ID & Passcode” (or “Touch ID & Passcode” for older devices).
Enter your current passcode.
Tap on “Turn Passcode On” if it’s not already enabled.
Choose whether you want to use Face ID (if available) or set up a passcode.
If setting up a passcode, enter a secure passcode twice to confirm.

Android Devices (Depends on the version):

Open the “Settings” app on your Android device.
Scroll down and tap on “Security” (or “Security & Location” or similar).
Look for an option like “Screen Lock” or “Lock Screen” and tap on it.
You may be prompted to enter your current PIN, password, or pattern.
Select the type of screen lock you want to use (e.g., PIN, password, pattern).
Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your chosen screen lock method.

App Permissions:

Reviewing and managing app permissions is crucial for protecting your sensitive data because it allows you to control what information each app can access on your device. Here’s how you can do it:

iOS Devices:

Settings > Privacy. Here, you’ll find options to control access to location, contacts, camera, and more.

Android Devices:

Settings > Apps & notifications > App permissions.

Device Encryption:

Enabling device encryption scrambles the data stored on your device in such a way that it can only be accessed with the correct decryption key, which is typically your device’s passcode or biometric authentication. This means that even if your device is lost or stolen, the data remains unreadable and inaccessible to anyone without the proper authorization, thus ensuring its security.

iOS Devices:

Device encryption is enabled by default when you set up a passcode.

Android Devices:

Encryption can be enabled by going to Settings > Security > Encrypt phone (or Encrypt device).

Remote Wipe and Tracking:

Both iOS and Android offer features for remote wipe and tracking in case your device is lost or stolen. In iOS, you can use the “Find My” app to track your device’s location and remotely erase its data. For Android devices, you can use Google’s Find My Device feature, which allows you to locate your device and perform a remote wipe if necessary. These features provide peace of mind in the event of a lost or stolen device.

Keeping Device Updated

Keeping your device updated with the latest software patches and security updates is crucial for protecting it from hacking and security vulnerabilities. Software updates often include patches for known vulnerabilities, ensuring prompt addressing to reduce the risk of exploitation. Additionally, updates may introduce new security features or enhancements, such as improved encryption protocols or better malware detection capabilities, further strengthening your device’s defences against cyber threats. Furthermore, updates typically include bug fixes and performance enhancements, contributing to smoother and more efficient device operation while preventing potential security loopholes that hackers could exploit.

2. General Tips:

There are also other mitigation measures that can reduce the possibility of your device being hacked, and these include:

Use a VPN:

Use a reputable virtual private network (VPN) service when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks to encrypt your internet traffic and protect your data from interception by hackers. ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and CyberGhost are recommended.

Regular Backups:

Regularly back up your device’s data to a secure location, such as cloud storage or an external hard drive. In case of hacking or device loss, you can restore your data from the backup without losing important information.

For iOS:

Connect your iPhone to Wi-Fi.
Go to “Settings” on your iPhone.
Tap your name at the top of the Settings menu.
Tap “iCloud” and then “iCloud Backup.”
Toggle the “iCloud Backup” switch to enable it.
Tap “Back Up Now” to initiate an immediate backup.
Note: Your device will automatically back up to iCloud when it’s connected to Wi-Fi, locked, and charging.

For Android

Go to your device’s “Settings.”
Scroll down and tap on “System” or “System & updates.”
Tap on “Backup” or “Backup & reset.”
Make sure the “Back up to Google Drive” option is enabled.
Tap on “Backup now” to start an immediate backup.
Note: Google Backup automatically backs up your app data, call history, contacts, device settings, and SMS messages to your Google account.

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):

Enable two-factor authentication on your accounts whenever possible to add an extra layer of security. This requires a secondary verification method, such as a code sent to your phone or email, in addition to your password.

Stay Informed:

Stay informed about the latest security threats and best practices for mobile security. Follow reputable cybersecurity blogs, subscribe to security newsletters, and educate yourself on common tactics used by hackers.

Avoid Public Charging Stations:

Avoid using public charging stations or USB ports, as they can be compromised to install malware or steal data from your device. Carry your own charger or use a portable power bank instead.

Regularly Review App Permissions:

Periodically review the permissions granted to installed apps on your device. Disable permissions that are unnecessary for the app’s functionality, especially those accessing sensitive data like contacts or location.

Use App Locking:

Consider using app locking or app-specific passwords for sensitive apps containing personal or financial information. This adds an extra layer of security, requiring a separate password or biometric authentication to access specific apps.

Enable Security Features:

Take advantage of built-in security features offered by your device’s operating system, such as “Secure Startup” on Android or “Activation Lock” on iOS. These features provide additional protection against unauthorised access and theft.

Practise Safe Browsing:

Use secure web browsers and avoid visiting suspicious or untrustworthy websites. Look for HTTPS in the website URL, indicating a secure connection, and be cautious when entering personal information online.

Educate Yourself:

Continuously educate yourself about the latest cybersecurity threats and trends. Follow reputable security sources, attend cybersecurity webinars or workshops, and stay up-to-date with security best practices.

Secure Physical Access:

Keep your device physically secure by storing it in a secure location when not in use, such as a locked drawer or pocket. Avoid leaving your device unattended in public places where it could be easily stolen or tampered with.

Secure Physical Access:

Monitor Account Activity:

Regularly review your accounts for any suspicious activity, such as unrecognized logins or unusual transactions. Report any unauthorized activity to the respective service providers immediately and take appropriate action to secure your accounts.

Be Wary of Social Engineering:

Be cautious of unsolicited emails, messages, or phone calls requesting personal information or urging urgent action. Verify the legitimacy of the sender or caller before responding, especially if they request sensitive information or payment.

Use Trusted Apps to Detect Malwares

There are several trusted apps available for both Android and iOS devices that can help detect malware and perform regular security checks. Examples of these apps are:

For Android:

Malwarebytes Security: Malwarebytes is a highly regarded antivirus and malware detection app for Android devices. It offers real-time protection, scheduled scans, and malware removal capabilities.
Bitdefender Mobile Security: Bitdefender provides comprehensive antivirus protection for Android devices, including malware scanning, web protection, and anti-theft features.
Avast Mobile Security: Avast offers a range of security features, including malware scanning, Wi-Fi security analysis, and app locking for Android devices.

For iOS:

Lookout: Lookout is a trusted security app for iOS devices that offers malware scanning, phishing protection, and device tracking features.
McAfee Mobile Security: McAfee provides antivirus protection for iOS devices, including malware detection, Wi-Fi security analysis, and app privacy monitoring.
Trend Micro Mobile Security: Trend Micro offers a comprehensive security solution for iOS devices, with features like safe browsing, device optimization, and privacy scanning.

Be sure to explore our blog posts on securing both WhatsApp and Telegram accounts for valuable tips and strategies to enhance your account security.

What to Do If Your Phone Is Already Hacked

If you suspect that your phone has been hacked, take immediate action:

Disconnect from the Internet: Turn off Wi-Fi and mobile data to prevent further unauthorised access.
Scan for Malware: Use reputable antivirus software to scan your device for malware and remove any detected threats.
Change Passwords: Change the passwords for your accounts, especially if you suspect they’ve been compromised.
Factory Reset: As a last resort, perform a factory reset to erase all data and reinstall the operating system.
SIM Card: Change your SIM PIN to prevent unauthorised access to your SIM card and cellular services. Next, contact your mobile carrier to inform them of the hack and request additional security measures. They can monitor your account for suspicious activity and provide guidance on protecting your account. Stay vigilant against SIM swap fraud, and if you suspect it, report it to your carrier immediately for further protection.

Remember to back up essential data before doing this.