Our blog.
The growing importance of smartphone security
Smartphones have become integrated into so many elements of our day-to-day lives. From personal banking, social media, browsing the internet, online shopping to simply keeping in touch with friends and family and sharing photos, much of how we live our lives is now happening in cyberspace. However, with all the convenience that cell phones bring, also comes increased risks. With more and more personal and sensitive information stored on our devices, smartphone security is more important than ever.
Have you thought about what you might lose if your device fell into the wrong hands?
Personal Information
Cell phones are essentially personal computers in our pockets, and they contain a wealth of personal and sensitive information. From contacts and emails to financial and medical data, our phones hold a lot of valuable information that cybercriminals would love to get their hands on that they could use to steal your identity. In 2022, there were over 1.1 million reports of identity theft to the FTC.
Social Media
Social media platforms have access to massive amounts of personal information, as well as cherished memories and photos – priceless to you, but also to cybercriminals. If they gain access to your social media account, they could use this information to impersonate you or steal your identity, hold your personal information for ransom or even try to use your profile to scam friends and family.
Online Banking and Shopping
It’s becoming increasingly common to do online banking and shopping solely or almost exclusively on our phones. However, with the increased convenience, comes more and more sensitive financial information being stored on our phones. If your phone is compromised, cybercriminals could gain access to your stored bank accounts or credit card details. This means it is not just the money in your account at risk but also things like your credit rating if they apply for credit cards or loans in your name, or doing their own retail therapy on your dime.
Mobile Payments
Mobile payments have become increasingly popular, using our phones to make contactless payments instead of reaching for our wallets. At least 43 million Americans have made a payment through Apple Pay. However, mobile payments also mean that financial information is even more easily accessible on our phones, and if your phone is lost or stolen, cybercriminals could easily go on a spending spree.
Malware and Viruses
Smartphones are just as susceptible to malware and viruses as computers. Ever more complex and sophisticated malware and viruses can infect our phones through malicious apps, phishing emails or fake websites and even the most alert and tech-savvy person can fall prey to cyber criminals. Once infected, they can gain access to your personal information and even take control of your phone.
What can you do?
Fortress is here to help protect you, your device and your data. Our smart app protects, secures and insures your device. Antivirus and Safe Site can alert you to potential cybersecurity threats, while Threat Alert and ID Shield will let you know about potential data security issues. And if your device does fall into the wrong hands, you can remotely wipe it to protect your data*.
Download the Fortress App for iPhone or Android to get started.
*Some features are device or membership dependent.
Return to Blog List
