Mobile App Data And Identity Theft Is On The Rise. Here’s The Best Way To Avoid It Happening To You

It’s easy to understand why consumers struggle when it comes to apps, data, and their security. Even the most popular, well-regarded, and well-used apps can become a vector for attack, and consequently it’s more important than ever to take control and ensure that data isn’t leaking to the dark corners of the Internet.

Earlier this month New Zealand’s politicians were told that the popular social media application, TikTok “posed a security threat.” This came just days after studies found that the metaverse, which will play a big role in both social media and applications, is a big data leak concern.

At the same time that report came out, another report shared the news that a batch of malware-filled apps had been discovered on Google Play. Unfortunately that was not before those apps had been downloaded 10 million times. Through them, the malicious app developers the ability to subscribe users to premium services, steal their social media accounts, and push intrusive ads.

It’s clearly a challenge to know what apps to avoid and how to safely use them. There are some positive signs that governments around the world are responding. Lawmakers in the EU are particularly encouraging, with a “privacy reboot” on the cards as new laws around sensitive data are being implemented. However, while those will help, they’re not going to stop criminals from trying to use apps to get access to user’s data, and so consumers will need to heighten their own vigilance.

What are the security best practices with apps?

Some of the key ways that users can protect themselves while using mobile devices include:

1) Take advantage of the full suite of authentication options

2) Avoid connecting to public WiFi networks

3) Use a password manager

4) Fake some of the data attackers value

5) Delete apps that you’re not using and that fall out of support