SMARTPHONES can be infected with a dangerous type of app called “spyware” – and it shouldn’t be ignored.
A simple mistake on your iPhone or Android could let strangers – or people you know – spy on your every move.
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These sinister “spyware” apps can find their way onto your phone in many ways.
But whatever happens, it’s important to delete any suspicious apps as soon as possible.
Better advice is to avoid installing spyware in the first place.
Cybersecurity giant McAfee has revealed six tips to avoid common mistakes that let criminals hijack your smartphone with “creepy” spyware.
How to stay safe from spyware
First up, McAfee’s cybersecurity expert recommends updating your operating system.
The “OS” is the main software that powers your smartphone – like Apple’s iOS or Google’s Android.
“Along with installing security software, keeping your operating system up to date can greatly improve your security,” the McAfee insider explained in an official security memo.
“Updates can fix vulnerabilities that hackers rely on to pull off their malware-based attacks.”
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Second, McAfee recommends avoiding third-party app stores.
That’s because Apple and Google review the apps that they offer up for download – in a bid to catch rogue apps out.
But if you download apps from elsewhere, you’re at greater risk of accidentally installing spyware.
Similarly, the third tip is to stick to well-known and legitimate apps for streaming, music and gaming.
“Unsurprisingly, hackers and scammers will prop up malicious sites that promote popular shows, films, and other content like games and music – yet they use them to deliver malware and steal personal information,” McAfee warned.
“If you find an offer for media that’s heavily discounted, free, or not available on known media outlets, it’s likely a scam.”
Fourth, you should always review apps carefully before installing them.
See if the developer has published other apps with good reviews.
“A legit app typically has quite a few reviews, whereas malicious apps might have only a handful of (phony) five-star reviews,” McAfee said.
“Look for typos and poor grammar in both the app description and screenshots. It might be a sign that a hacker slapped the app together and quickly deployed it.”
The fifth tip is to beware random websites that claim you’ve got a security issue.
They’ll often try to trick you into downloading a file.
Ignore these warnings – they’re almost certainly false.
And finally, McAfee warned users to make sure that your smartphone has a lock on it.
Often spyware is installed by someone who has physically access to your phone – even someone you know and trust.
By keeping your device locked and secure, you greatly reduce the risk that someone can tamper with it.
