Can cyberattackers hack into an Android smartphone remotely? Unfortunately, Android owners are especially prone to most data hijacking attempts since their gadget is more susceptible to attacks than iOS-based smartphones. This is due to the open-source nature of the Android platform.
What’s more, most users do not even think about the fact that their daily actions increase the risks of hacking a smartphone. A little carelessness and hackers can get your smartphone data in a few clicks. So, what are the common ways that hackers use to get the data remotely? What tips can help you avoid such attacks? Below you will find answers to these questions.
Top 5 Ways to Hack Your Android Remotely
How can attackers access your data remotely? Some people think that they are not at risk. But in fact, many users themselves help hackers gain access to their data. What is this about? So, to avoid searching for the solution how to fix a hacked Android, it would be wise to discover how hackers can get access to your gadget and how to prevent it. Howly experts shared some popular tactics the hackers use to hack smartphones without touching them, so let’s find them out.
Via Apps
An attacker can access your phone using various apps that can give them complete control over the smartphone. Often, attackers use ordinary apps that will not arouse user suspicion. But as soon as the user opens the access to the data through typical permissions while installing the app, information will begin to leak. That’s why it is recommended to avoid downloading apps from third-party markers or sites.
Via Phishing
Phishing is one of the popular ways to hack Android remotely. Classically, attackers send an email or message that contains a link. Opening this link allows attackers to gain access to the user’s private information and even opens an opportunity to manage the smartphone.
That’s why you should avoid opening messages and emails from unknown users. Attackers can hide behind the names of well-known companies and brands. But if you look closely, you can see that the name has an extra letter or number. So, it is worth carefully studying each letter or message before opening the link.
Via WiFi
Attackers can use the Wi-Fi network to gain access to your smartphone data. Usually, hackers create an open-access network and place it in a public place. Most users mindlessly use such open Wi-Fi networks.
In order to avoid the risk of being hacked through a Wi-Fi connection, it is recommended to avoid connecting to unknown networks or use a VPN app to make your web surfing safe.
Via False Advertising
False advertising is another way that attackers can use. When it comes to Android, accidentally clicking on such ads can lead to the phone being hacked. This practice is more common for hacking PCs but has recently been applied to hacking Android phones. Pop-up advertisements are common for Android owners.
Therefore, it is necessary to block such notifications to avoid the risk of accidentally tapping on them and letting the attackers hack into your smartphone.
Via Bluetooth Connection
Another common way to hack a phone remotely is to use a Bluetooth connection. Even though today few users actively use Bluetooth, from time to time, it can accidentally turn on, which is especially dangerous in public places. Hackers can use various software that quickly detects smartphones with Bluetooth enabled and read your smartphone data at lightning speed.
Turn off the Bluetooth when you are not using it, and also establish a connection with a password.
How to Protect Your Android Phone from Hacking?
While the hackers come up with new and new tactics in response to the growing security measures, you need to figure out how to protect your smartphone from their attacks. Here are a few key points that you should use to secure your Android.
- Do not download apps from third-party sites. Instead, use Google Play Market and official developer sites. Choose the most popular ones instead of downloading something unknown since the popular apps are tested by many users.
- Be attentive with permissions. It is also recommended to keep track of which files the app requires access to. Excessive access to data increases the risk of a hacker attack. For example, there is no need to open the access to your contact data for the app that helps edit photos. So, track such requests and analyze whether they are logical and not dangerous for your privacy.
- Avoid saving important information on your smartphone. We are talking about both passwords and your financial data. Take double care of protecting this information against leakage in the event of a hacker attack.
- Don’t use unsecured Wi-Fi, even if it’s free, especially in public places. When connecting to Wi-Fi networks, it is recommended to use a VPN app that will secure your data in tandem with a security tool. By the way, the use of a VPN is a good measure for safe browsing.
- Delete your web browser history regularly, clear your cache, and delete cookies. Performing such actions at least once a week increases the security of your data and your smartphone.
- Do not open suspicious messages or emails. Texts that have a link can come with a trap from hackers. Carefully study such messages before clicking on the link.
- Turn off promotional notifications. Most Android users are faced with such a problem as notifications from suspicious sites that look like ads. An accidental click can lead to your smartphone being hacked, so limit the access of sites to such notifications. Also, avoid ad blocks while browsing, as most of them are a tool for hackers.
- Turn off Bluetooth when you are not using it. It is recommended to set a connection password to avoid a situation where a third-party device will quietly connect to you.
Wrapping Up
These are some popular ways hackers can hack any Android smartphone remotely. In most cases, hacker attacks are the consequences of a simple inattention of the Android owner. So, use these tricks to protect your smartphone and keep your data safe.
