While it hasn’t become a widespread problem yet, mobile security will soon become just as essential as it is on a desktop or laptop computer. Hackers are getting better and bolder when it comes to hacking smartphones and tablets, and you need to protect yourself. There are some users that need mobile security more than others based on their age, usage or favorite OS.
1. Android and Windows Users
The Android and Windows mobile operating systems aren’t as secure as the iOS system. Android is known for being fairly open, which allows users to easily download apps from the Internet, perform customizations and make other changes that are fun and useful. The consequence of this is that Android is easier to hack.
Windows has been the hacker’s favorite for a long time. Not only is this the most popular OS, at least when it comes to desktops, but most hackers have gotten used to attacking this system. The Windows mobile OS is practically the same as the desktop version, which means it has all of the same weaknesses.
At the same time, don’t think that iOS is safe from hackers. It’s just harder to hack because it’s a closed system. It’s difficult to get malicious apps on the App Store, but many security professionals have displayed just how weak this OS can be if a hacker is able to gain access.
2. Teens
There are several reasons why teens need security apps. First of all, they aren’t as careful with their technology as adults are. They just think that smartphones and tablets can be replaced, so it doesn’t matter if the device gets hacked. They also aren’t as conscious of the consequences.
Adults think about having their credit card numbers and information stolen. Most younger teens don’t have credit cards, and they don’t understand how dangerous identity theft really is.
They also seem to have a harder time identifying social engineering traps. For example, most adults won’t click a random link that they receive through social media. About 50 percent of teens have been shown to click these random links at least once, and they always lead to malicious websites.
3. Users Who Can’t Just Stop Downloading!
Some people just can’t stop downloading files. They love downloading photos, movies, apps, games and many other files. There’s nothing wrong with adding more files to your smartphone or tablet. This is encouraged and it will help you customize the device and carry your media around with you.
The problem is that many people who rampantly download files aren’t being cautious. They tend to download files from the most convenient websites.
They will also avoid paying for files, so they tend to visit websites that host the files for free. While most of these websites are fine, a number of the files might have viruses.
If you restrict yourself to safe websites and your operating system’s app and media marketplace, then you should be fine. At the same time, getting some extra security can protect you if a bad file does gain access to your system.
4. Professionals
People who work for professional establishments should definitely have mobile security. Unlike the other people on this list who engage in irresponsible behavior, that’s not the issue with professionals. Most professionals know how to keep their devices safe.
The problem is that hackers are more likely to attack these devices because they have valuable information. Instead of just getting your credit card numbers or personal information, the hacker might be able to gain access to the company’s server.
Some hackers are paid thousands or even millions of dollars for this type of corporate espionage.
Even if the company provides you with security apps, you should still install a few other security apps to ensure that hackers have a much harder time accessing your device.
Conclusion
There are many people who are vulnerable to hacker attacks. Most mobile users who engage in irresponsible behavior, like rampantly downloading unsafe files or not understanding how to safely browse the Internet, are ripe targets for hackers.
At the same time, some responsible users are also vulnerable. Regardless of who you are, it’s always a good to have at least one security app for your smartphone.
