Best Software to Use to Protect Your Smartphone from Hackers

A few decades ago, mobile phones were only equipped with the most basic functionalities, such as making calls and sending text messages. They didn’t even have a camera! But, as mobile technology advanced, mobile devices have become more sophisticated over the years. Now, we use it for almost everything. Browsing the internet. Emailing. Banking. Watching movies. Listening to music. Social media. The list goes on and on. 

We store so much sensitive data on our smart devices that they have become the number one target for cyber attacks. That’s why the need for protection against such attacks is now more critical than ever, making IT security a necessity.  

Importance of Antivirus Software

Leaving the door of your home open and unprotected is like inviting burglars and intruders into your house. Similarly, an unprotected mobile device will end up inviting all the malware and viruses into its system. Security software, like an antivirus, acts as a closed door with a security guard. This helps fend off all the malicious software trying to infect your smartphone.

What harm can a malware infection do to your mobile device?

• Adware pop-ups
• Increased data usage
• Frequent app crashing
• Unfamiliar apps installed on your phone
• A sudden increase in phone bill
• Battery drains faster than usual
• Overheating 

What are the advantages of mobile IT security?

• It protects you against viruses.
• It helps block ads and spam.
• It safeguards your files and data against data thieves and hackers.
• It reduces your vulnerability against malware, virus, and phishing attacks.

You can read more about IT security on TriadaNet and how to protect yourself against phone scams.

Best Software to Protect Your Phone

Here are some of the best mobile security software for Android and IOS. Some of these have a free version with limited functionalities. But if you want to gain access to all the features, you will have to buy the premium version.

• Bitdefender Mobile Security
• Avast Security and Privacy
• Avira Mobile Security
• McAfee Mobile Security
• Trend Micro Mobile Security
• Norton Mobile Security
• Kaspersky Mobile Antivirus
• Lookout Security and Antivirus

What to Look for When Choosing Antivirus Software for Your Phone

There are tons of security apps available on Google Play Store and Apple Store. But you only need one. So, how do you find the best out of all the mobile IT security apps out there? Here are some of the features to look for in a mobile device antivirus.

Quality protection

There are many free mobile security apps available. However, they typically only offer basic functions. If you want to gain access to more premium features, you’ll have to pay for the premium version. Each mobile security package will vary, but it should be able to protect your mobile device effectively against the following threats.

• Virus
• Spyware and adware
• Phishing
• Pharming
• Ransomware 

Anti-theft features

Malware infection on your mobile device can compromise your personal information. But, more than that, loss and theft is probably a more pressing problem for smartphone owners. So aside from malware protection, security experts agree that your mobile antivirus should have an excellent anti-theft feature. 

A good antivirus should have a Web portal and SMS commands where you can remotely control your smartphone. It should also allow you to create a PIN on authorized devices for sending remote commands. After all, you don’t want your security app to be used to spy on you, right?

Two-Factor Authentication

Two-factor authentication (2FA) provides a second layer of protection on a system or account. When activated, users must input two types of information—such as their password and a PIN—before they can log in. This helps block unauthorized access to an account with nothing but a stolen password.

Firewall Protection

A firewall acts as a gatekeeper between your device and the internet. It monitors and filters out unauthorized attempts to access your device while blocking unwanted incoming network traffic from unknown sources. This makes it harder for hackers to do anything malicious on your mobile device. So, you may think of your firewall as your first line of defense against malware. 

Conclusion

Your mobile security should be at the top of your list, especially if you do a lot of mobile transactions, such as banking and online shopping. Maintaining the security of the data stored in your smartphone should be your number one priority. Remember, the personal data stored in your phone is worth so much more than the device itself. So, don’t underestimate the value of installing an antivirus on your mobile device.  

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