There will be 2 billion smartphone users around the world by 2016. Many will be here in the United States, where 182 million people already use smartphones. More than two-thirds of us are checking our phones for messages, missed calls, or alerts, even when we don’t hear them ring, and 44 percent of us sleep with our cell phones to ensure we don’t miss anything. Our smartphones are more than just phones. They’re entertainment hubs, information sources, and our connections to the outside world. So just imagine what you’d do if your phone came under attack.
Studies show it’s not as unlikely as you might think. Mobile malware, including spyware, ransomware, adware, and Trojans, attacked a staggering 16 million mobile devices in 2014, 75 percent more than the year before. But there are some ways you can keep your device safe, starting from the moment you buy.
Many phones have features to help you avoid mobile malware threats. For example, if owners of Apple devices like the new iPhone 6 only purchase apps from the Apple Store, they can be fairly sure they are secure, since Apple puts apps through security checks before listing them. Apple also alerts users when updates are available for its apps and operating systems. Keeping these up to date will minimize your risk of malware. This infographic offers other tips for avoiding malware.
Despite your best efforts, you may still find malware on your mobile device. If this occurs, refer to the step-by-step guide on this infographic. In just five easy steps, it’ll show you how to remove malware from your smartphone or tablet. This is important to protect the privacy of your information and ensure that your device runs efficiently.
