Skip to main content

Yes, your smartphone can get hacked. Here's how to stop it

Your computer might be protected against hacking, but what about your smartphone? Although we typically talk about hacking in relation to bigger devices, your smartphone is also susceptible to hacking. This is how you can protect yourself, and your phone, from a hacker. 

Why would a hacker target a smartphone?

Hackers target smartphones for the exact same reasons that they target computers; financial gain. There’s a wealth of data on your devices that may seem innocuous to you, but are very desirable to somebody else. Passwords, login details, and banking details are stored on your mobile phone, just like your computer.

Aren’t smartphones more secure?

There’s a misconception that your smartphone has a higher level of security than your laptop or your tablet. However, this isn’t always true. 

With your computer, there are two main security weaknesses; the computer, and you, the user. You could be vulnerable to attacks if your computer isn’t kept updated or doesn’t have antivirus; or you could be vulnerable to attacks if you’re unaware of hacking, phishing and malware. 

If you don’t know your cybersecurity, you’re more likely to click a malware-laden link, open a phishing email or visit a dodgy website without realising. This is true whether you’re using a computer or using your smartphone; phishing emails, fake websites and infected links exist on your mobile. as well as your laptop.

But what about biometrics, like fingerprints, facial recognition and voice recognition?

Biometrics provide an additional level of security that many computers may lack; however, they can be hacked; it is possible for a hacker to recreate your fingerprints, face and voice (and the risk is higher if you have a social media account). Although biometrics do improve security, it doesn’t make your phone impervious to hacking. 

What kind of hacks target smartphones?

There are a number of attacks which target smartphones. A typical social engineering attack may entice you to download an unsafe application, and allow them access to your phone’s data. Fake adverts, or even fake cybersecurity warnings may encourage you to click an infected link, and allow a hacker access to your device. Bluetooth is a common way for hackers to attack, as it allows access to the device often without alerting the user.

Phishing is also a common hacking technique targeting smartphones, where hackers send you a text from a trusted contact with a link, often encouraging you to share your information. We saw a scam like this during the pandemic, when there were fake texts pretending to offer vaccination appointments

How can you protect your smartphone?

The best way you can protect your smartphone is by regularly updating the device. These help to protect your phone from the latest scams and attacks, and ensures that any bugs are fixed. Updates including security patches mean that your phone manufacturer has identified a vulnerability, and provided a fix within the update. These are invaluable when it comes to protecting your device.

Be aware of downloading applications that you aren’t familiar with; this is one of the easiest ways for hackers to access your device. We’d also advise against jailbreaking your smartphone. Although doing so allows you to download third-party apps and customise your device, it also leaves you more vulnerable to dodgy applications, and can prevent you from downloading updates.

When you’re considering using auto-logins, smart-unlock, Bluetooth and other features which increase accessibility, make sure you balance usability with security. Yes, it’s great that your phone unlocks automatically if you’re near your car, and that your headphones automatically connect; but it’s great for hackers too.

Tweet us @TranscenditUK


The Transcendit Way

Transcendit understand that when you choose to work with us, whether we're taking care of your IT, app or web development, you're trusting us with part of your business. So whether we're looking after your computers, phone systems or servers we always do things 'the Transcendit way'.

The whole of our team adhere to the same values, beliefs and policies - the principles that were written when Transcendit first formed in 2000. Whether you come to us for cloud services or recovery backup you can be confident that you'll always receive the same excellent service.

The Transcendit way outlines how we do business; following the same straightforward principles with every client and customer, regardless of how big or small they may be.

That means we get to know you and your business. We offer you a friendly, professional and efficient service, and we'll always be honest with you.
We understand that not everybody speaks fluent IT, so we try to explain things in a way that is simple and clear. We always spend as much time as is necessary explaining things to you.
If you need to talk to us about something, no matter how insignificant, we are only ever a phone call away – and we’re never too busy to make you a cup of tea and have a sit down with you in person.
We understand how frustrating it can be when things are late. When we schedule an appointment with you, we are there when you’re expecting us. If something prevents us from getting there, we always call you in advance to let you know.
Sometimes things can go wrong, but we never lie to you or try to cover something up. If things go askew we tell you what’s happened and how we plan to prevent it affecting your business.
We want you to continuously benefit from working with us. We regularly discuss your business and make suggestions for improving systems and processes wherever we can – but we never try to push you into a purchase.
When we quote a fixed price, that's always the amount we charge – you won’t find any nasty surprises on a bill from us. If you are paying by time and materials, we inform you if our approximations could change.
We understand the importance of privacy for your business and your customers. We respect the confidentiality of your data, and we will never pass on your information to third parties.
We appreciate it when you take the time to give us feedback. A system called CustomerSure records our client's responses, so you can trust that our reviews are from real people.
Find out what they're saying here.
As always the support team are efficient and effective. Darlington Golf Club

Based on 12075 reviews our customers rate us 9.8/10. Reviews and ratings by Customersure. 09-October-2024

Transcendit are proud sponsors of CHUF, the Children's Heart Unit Fund.

Transcendit is a Living Wage employer
Transcendit is a Microsoft Gold certified partner
VMWARE partner
Vipre partner
IPCortex partner
WithSecure partner
DELL partner
Barracuda partner
Veeam partner
N-Able partner