It takes a bit of effort, but iPhones can wind up with viruses and malware. And that can indeed lead to all kinds of snooping.
Whether through malware or a bad app, hackers can skim personal info while you browse, bank, and shop. They can also infect your phone with ransomware that locks up your personal info or that locks up the phone itself.
Those are some worst-case scenarios. However, good for you and unfortunate hackers is the way iPhones run apps. It makes it tough for viruses and malware to get a toehold. Apple designed the iOS operating system to run apps in what’s called a “virtual environment.” This limits the access apps have to other apps, which helps prevent viruses and malware from spreading.
Still, malware can end up on an iPhone in a couple of ways:
The owner “jailbreaks” the iPhone
This practice gives people more control over their iPhones. By jailbreaking, they gain “root control” of the phone. With that, they can do things like remove pre-installed apps and download third-party apps from places other than the App Store. And that’s where the trouble can start.
Jailbreaking removes several of those barriers that keep viruses and malware from spreading. Further, downloading apps outside of the App Store exposes the phone to viruses and malware. Apple doesn’t review the apps in those stores. That way, a hacker with malicious intent can post a bad app with relative ease.
A malicious app sneaks into the App Store
Apple has a strict review policy before apps are approved for posting in the App Store. Per Apple, “Apple’s App Review team of over 500 experts evaluates every single app submission — from developers around the world — before any app ever reaches users. On average, the team reviews approximately 132,500 apps a week.”
However, bad actors find ways to sneak malware into the store. Sometimes they upload an app that’s initially innocent and then push malware to users as part of an update. Other times, they’ll embed malicious code such that it only triggers after it’s run in certain countries. They will also encrypt malicious code in the app that they submit, which can make it difficult for reviewers to sniff out.
So, barring a jailbroken phone, the chances of getting a virus or malware on your iPhone remain low. Still, it can happen.
Because we spend so much time on our phones, it’s fairly easy to tell when something isn’t working quite like it is supposed to. While you can chalk up some strange behavior to technical issues, sometimes those issues are symptoms of an infection. Malware can eat up system resources or conflict with other apps on your phone, causing it to act in odd ways.
Some possible signs that your device has been hacked include:
Performance issues
A slower device, webpages taking way too long to load, or a battery that never keeps a charge are all things that can be attributed to a device reaching its retirement. However, these things might also be signs that malware has compromised your phone.
Your phone feels like it’s running hot
Malware running in the background of a device might burn extra computing power, causing your phone to feel hot and overheated. If your device is quick to heat up, it might be due to malicious activity.
Mysterious calls, texts, or apps appear
If apps you haven’t downloaded suddenly appear on your screen, or if outgoing calls you don’t remember making pop up on your phone bill, that is a definite red flag and a potential sign that your device has been hacked.
Changes or pop-ups crowd your screen
Malware might also be the cause of odd or frequent pop-ups, as well as changes made to your home screen. If you are getting an influx of spammy ads or your app organization is suddenly out of order, there is a big possibility that your phone has been hacked.
To avoid the hassle of having a hacked phone in the first place, here are some tips that can help.
Promptly updating your phone and apps is a primary way to keep your device safer. Updates often fix bugs and vulnerabilities that hackers rely on to download malware for their attacks.
Apple’s App Store has those protections in place that we mentioned before. That’s unlike those third-party sites, which might not have those same protections. Further, some purposely host malicious apps. Avoiding these sites altogether can prevent these apps from allowing hackers into your device.
As we’ve seen, jailbreaking a phone introduces all kinds of security issues. Your best bet as an everyday internet user is to rely on iOS and the protections that come with it.
If you are worried that your device has been hacked, follow these steps:
Completely power down your phone. Powering down and then giving your phone a fresh start can put a halt to any malicious activity.
Remove any apps you didn’t download. From there, power down your phone and restart it as before.
If you still have issues, wiping and restoring your phone is an option. Provided you have your photos, contacts, and other vital info backed up in the cloud, it’s a relatively straightforward process. A quick search online can show how to wipe and restore your model of phone.
Check your accounts and credit for any unauthorized purchases. Several features in our McAfee+ plans can help. Identity Monitoring can alert you if your info winds up on the dark web. Our Credit Monitoring along with our transaction monitoring can also alert you of unusual activity across your accounts.
Lastly, if you spot an issue, get some help from a pro. Our Identity Theft Coverage & Restoration service offers $2 million that covers travel, losses, and legal fees associated with identity theft. It also offers the services of a licensed recovery pro who can repair your credit and your identity in the wake of an attack.
On a non-jailbroken phone, no. You don’t need antivirus. Yet your phone should certainly get extra protection. Phones face far more threats than viruses and malware alone.
Comprehensive online protection software like ours can keep you and your phone safer. It can:
Those are only a handful of the many features that protect more than your phone. You’ll find yet more that protect you — namely, your identity and your privacy.
So while iPhones don’t need antivirus, they certainly benefit from extra online protection.
The post How To Tell If Your Smartphone Has Been Hacked appeared first on McAfee Blog.
“My phone’s been hacked!” These are words you never want to hear or say. Ever. You are not alone in this sentiment.
Our phones have become the central hub of our lives, storing everything from personal and financial information, access to payment apps, files, photos, and contacts. This has made our phones irresistible, prized targets for cyber criminals. And because these devices are always on and always with us, the opportunity for attack is constant. What are the signs that you have been hacked and how can you reclaim your control? This guide walks you through the common indicators of a hacked phone and what steps you can take to protect your data and privacy.
Phone hacking is the unauthorized access and control of your smartphone and its data. It can happen to any person and any device, whether it’s an iPhone or an Android. To achieve this, cybercriminals—also called hackers—use various types of malicious software, sometimes called malware, such as:
These attacks are typically motivated by financial gain, such as stealing banking credentials, or by a desire to monitor someone’s personal life.
Phone hacking isn’t just a technical or convenience issue. It has real and often costly consequences for your personal life, finances, and privacy. Here, we list the kinds of losses you might face with a hacked phone:
The consequences of a hacked phone go far beyond inconvenience. This is why it is so critical to stay alert for the warning signs of a compromise and know exactly what to do if your phone is hacked.
The unfortunate reality is that anyone’s phone can be targeted and successfully hacked. Cybercriminals have developed several sophisticated methods that allow them to remotely take over your device. These tactics are done mainly by surreptitiously installing malicious software or malware, monitoring calls and messages, stealing personal information, or even taking over your various accounts. Here are detailed explanations for each hacking method:
To be certain that your phone has been hacked, here are some signs you should consider. Note that these might be signs of a hacked phone, yet not always.
If you see several of these signs, it’s crucial to take immediate action to secure your device and data.
Ultimately, the biggest factor in security is user behavior. Regardless of whether you use Android or iOS, practising safe habits—like avoiding suspicious links, using strong passwords, and keeping your operating system updated—is the most critical defense against having your phone hacked.
This is a long-standing debate, and the truth is that both platforms can be hacked. Android’s open-source nature and accommodation of third-party sources apps create more potential vulnerabilities. Additionally, security updates can sometimes be delayed depending on the device manufacturer. iPhones, while generally more secure, can be vulnerable if a user jailbreaks the device or falls victim to phishing and other social engineering scams.
Simply answering a phone call cannot install malware on a modern, updated smartphone. The real danger comes from social engineering, where the caller will convince you into taking an action that compromises your security such as giving your personal information or installing something yourself. This is often called vishing or voice phishing.
Yes, your phone’s camera and microphone can be hacked, a process known as camfecting. This is typically done using spyware hidden in malicious apps disguised as legitimate software that you may have been tricked into installing. Signs of a compromised camera include the indicator light turning on unexpectedly, finding photos or videos in your gallery that you didn’t take, or experiencing unusually high battery drain.
When your phone is completely powered down, its network connections and most of its hardware are inactive, making it impossible to be actively hacked over the internet. However, some modern smartphones have features that remain active even when the device seems off, like the location tracker. Sophisticated, state-level spyware like Pegasus are also theoretically capable of attacking a device’s firmware even while turned off.
Sometimes you are fortunate enough to catch the hacking attempt while it is in progress, such as during a vishing incident. When this happens, you can take these immediate steps to thwart the hacker before, during and after:
Discovering that your phone has been hacked can be alarming, but acting quickly can help minimize the damage and restore your privacy. Here are the actions to take to regain control and protect your personal information:
Applying security measures the moment you bring home your brand new phone helps to keep your phone from getting hacked in the first place. It only takes a few minutes. Follow these tips to find yourself much safer from the start:
Protecting your phone from hackers doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By remaining vigilant for the warning signs, keeping your software updated, and using trusted security tools, you can significantly reduce your risk of getting your phone infiltrated. Think of your digital security as an ongoing practice, not a one-time fix.
Mobile security solutions like McAfee Mobile Security are specifically designed to scan your device for malware, spyware, and other malicious code. Key features to look for in a quality security app include real-time antivirus protection, web protection to block dangerous websites, and privacy monitoring to check which apps have access to your personal data. McAfee Mobile Security also offers award-winning antivirus, real-time malware scanning to stop malicious apps before they can cause harm. The included Secure VPN encrypts your connection, making public Wi-Fi safe for browsing and banking. With features like Identity Monitoring to alert you if your details are found on the dark web and Safe Browsing to block risky websites, you’re protected from multiple angles.
Be very cautious of fake anti-hack apps; these could be scams that can install malware themselves. To be safe, always download security software from reputable providers through official channels like the Google Play Store or Apple’s App Store.
The post How to Know If Your Phone Has Been Hacked appeared first on McAfee Blog.
When we come across the term Artificial Intelligence (AI), our mind often ventures into the realm of sci-fi movies like I, Robot, Matrix, and Ex Machina. We’ve always perceived AI as a futuristic concept, something that’s happening in a galaxy far, far away. However, AI is not only here in our present but has also been a part of our lives for several years in the form of various technological devices and applications.
In our day-to-day lives, we use AI in many instances without even realizing it. AI has permeated into our homes, our workplaces, and is at our fingertips through our smartphones. From cell phones with built-in smart assistants to home assistants that carry out voice commands, from social networks that determine what content we see to music apps that curate playlists based on our preferences, AI has its footprints everywhere. Therefore, it’s integral to not only embrace the wows of this impressive technology but also understand and discuss the potential risks associated with it.
→ Dig Deeper: Artificial Imposters—Cybercriminals Turn to AI Voice Cloning for a New Breed of Scam
AI, a term that might sound intimidating to many, is not so when we understand it. It is essentially technology that can be programmed to achieve certain goals without assistance. In simple words, it’s a computer’s ability to predict, process data, evaluate it, and take necessary action. This smart way of performing tasks is being implemented in education, business, manufacturing, retail, transportation, and almost every other industry and cultural sector you can think of.
AI has been doing a lot of good too. For instance, Instagram, the second most popular social network, is now deploying AI technology to detect and combat cyberbullying in both comments and photos. No doubt, AI is having a significant impact on everyday life and is poised to metamorphose the future landscape. However, alongside its benefits, AI has brought forward a set of new challenges and risks. From self-driving cars malfunctioning to potential jobs lost to AI robots, from fake videos and images to privacy breaches, the concerns are real and need timely discussions and preventive measures.
AI has made it easier for people to face-swap within images and videos, leading to “deep fake” videos that appear remarkably realistic and often go viral. A desktop application called FakeApp allows users to seamlessly swap faces and share fake videos and images. While this displays the power of AI technology, it also brings to light the responsibility and critical thinking required when consuming and sharing online content.
→ Dig Deeper: The Future of Technology: AI, Deepfake, & Connected Devices
Yet another concern raised by AI is privacy breaches. The Cambridge Analytica/Facebook scandal of 2018, alleged to have used AI technology unethically to collect Facebook user data, serves as a reminder that our private (and public) information can be exploited for financial or political gain. Thus, it becomes crucial to discuss and take necessary steps like locking down privacy settings on social networks and being mindful of the information shared in the public feed, including reactions and comments on other content.
McAfee Pro Tip: Cybercriminals employ advanced methods to deceive individuals, propagating sensationalized fake news, creating deceptive catfish dating profiles, and orchestrating harmful impersonations. Recognizing sophisticated AI-generated content can pose a challenge, but certain indicators may signal that you’re encountering a dubious image or interacting with a perpetrator operating behind an AI-generated profile. Know the indicators.
With the advent of AI, cybercrime has found a new ally. As per McAfee’s Threats Prediction Report, AI technology might enable hackers to bypass security measures on networks undetected. This can lead to data breaches, malware attacks, ransomware, and other criminal activities. Moreover, AI-generated phishing emails are scamming people into unknowingly handing over sensitive data.
→ Dig Deeper: How to Keep Your Data Safe From the Latest Phishing Scam
Bogus emails are becoming highly personalized and can trick intelligent users into clicking malicious links. Given the sophistication of these AI-related scams, it is vital to constantly remind ourselves and our families to be cautious with every click, even those from known sources. The need to be alert and informed cannot be overstressed, especially in times when AI and cybercrime often seem to be two sides of the same coin.
As homes evolve to be smarter and synced with AI-powered Internet of Things (IoT) products, potential threats have proliferated. These threats are not limited to computers and smartphones but extend to AI-enabled devices such as voice-activated assistants. According to McAfee’s Threat Prediction Report, these IoT devices are particularly susceptible as points of entry for cybercriminals. Other devices at risk, as highlighted by security experts, include routers, and tablets.
This means we need to secure all our connected devices and home internet at its source – the network. Routers provided by your ISP (Internet Security Provider) are often less secure, so consider purchasing your own. As a primary step, ensure that all your devices are updated regularly. More importantly, change the default password on these devices and secure your primary network along with your guest network with strong passwords.
Having an open dialogue about AI and its implications is key to navigating through the intricacies of this technology. Parents need to have open discussions with kids about the positives and negatives of AI technology. When discussing fake videos and images, emphasize the importance of critical thinking before sharing any content online. Possibly, even introduce them to the desktop application FakeApp, which allows users to swap faces within images and videos seamlessly, leading to the production of deep fake photos and videos. These can appear remarkably realistic and often go viral.
Privacy is another critical area for discussion. After the Cambridge Analytica/Facebook scandal of 2018, the conversation about privacy breaches has become more significant. These incidents remind us how our private (and public) information can be misused for financial or political gain. Locking down privacy settings, being mindful of the information shared, and understanding the implications of reactions and comments are all topics worth discussing.
Awareness and knowledge are the best tools against AI-enabled cybercrime. Making families understand that bogus emails can now be highly personalized and can trick even the most tech-savvy users into clicking malicious links is essential. AI can generate phishing emails, scamming people into handing over sensitive data. In this context, constant reminders to be cautious with every click, even those from known sources, are necessary.
→ Dig Deeper: Malicious Websites – The Web is a Dangerous Place
The advent of AI has also likely allowed hackers to bypass security measures on networks undetected, leading to data breaches, malware attacks, and ransomware. Therefore, being alert and informed is more than just a precaution – it is a vital safety measure in the digital age.
Artificial Intelligence has indeed woven itself into our everyday lives, making things more convenient, efficient, and connected. However, with these advancements come potential risks and challenges. From privacy breaches, and fake content, to AI-enabled cybercrime, the concerns are real and need our full attention. By understanding AI better, having open discussions, and taking appropriate security measures, we can leverage this technology’s immense potential without falling prey to its risks. In our AI-driven world, being informed, aware, and proactive is the key to staying safe and secure.
To safeguard and fortify your online identity, we strongly recommend that you delve into the extensive array of protective features offered by McAfee+. This comprehensive cybersecurity solution is designed to provide you with a robust defense against a wide spectrum of digital threats, ranging from malware and phishing attacks to data breaches and identity theft.
The post AI & Your Family: The Wows and Potential Risks appeared first on McAfee Blog.