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Information Security Tips Series |
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Mobile Technology is well received in Hong Kong, and nearly everyone uses such mobile connection service. Some applications (apps) enhance the use of contact list by adding instant messaging system to it. Some provide data connection usage monitoring service, and even provide whole mobile device data backup service by uploading all your selected mobile data to the web. Some apps provide tracking service when your mobile device has been stolen. Others include online banking apps or online shopping apps. However, have you considered the information security issue when enjoying the convenience provided by technology? Risks associated with mobile applications
There are some common risks on the installation and use of mobile applications as shown below: * Malicious apps - Usually, most mobile apps downloaded from official websites of reputable apps developer are more secure, without key logger, Trojans, virus or other malicious code hidden. However, if your mobile device has been rooted or jailbroken, and has installed apps from unknown sources, your devices may suffer the loss of sensitive data through the malicious apps. * Apps bugs - Even if you have installed all the legitimate apps, you can hardly prevent the apps from having security vulnerabilities, which will increase your security risks. * Mobile apps scam and fraud - As mentioned above, some apps provide so called "free of charge" services to users. However, some apps hide their cost. For example, when some apps provide backup services to a user, it may charge the user the cost of data storage or data restore services. Some virus scanning apps may provide false alarm of virus and ask users to pay for upgrading the apps so that users may "clean" it. * Disclosure of sensitive geolocation data - Some apps may provide geolocation services for users to update their current location on the social media. It is high risk because a malicious person may find out where you are; at least they know the user is not at home or office. Get protected from mobile apps risks
To balance convenience and security, note the followings: * Get your mobile apps from official websites to minimise the apps being injected with malicious code. * Install anti-virus or other security tools from reputable sources and keep it up-to-date. * Scrutinise thoroughly all permission requests, for example those involving privileged access, when installing apps. * Turn off location services setting in your mobile device if it is not necessary to run location-based application. * Do not jailbreak or root the mobile device (to override usage or access limitations). * Mobile device should enable a power-on password or other device password management tool if available. * Remain alert when you download and install mobile apps. It is useful to consider the recommendations of other users. |
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