How to avoid phishing and smishing on your mobile phone: 7 practical tips

Phishing and smishing are two main forms of internet fraud. They involve attempts to trick users into providing confidential information, such as usernames and passwords, via email (phishing) or messaging services such as SMS, WhatsApp, and others (smishing).

Cybercriminals send us emails with information provided by companies or banks, as well as fake websites that ask us for passwords to these accounts.

Fortunately, there are several ways to avoid phishing and smishing on your mobile phone, and in this guide, we will show you 8 practical techniques.

Use a strong password

FIt is very important to use a strong password to protect your accounts. It should be at least 8 characters long and contain uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters (., & @, etc.). Avoid using common words, last names, pet names, or birth dates. This will make it much more difficult for cybercriminals to access your information. You can also change your passwords regularly.

Update your operating system

It is important to update your operating system regularly to ensure you have the latest security features. This will make it much more difficult for hackers to access your information. Install updates on your phone regularly and do so as soon as possible to ensure its security.

Use two-step authentication

Two-factor authentication is a great way to protect your mobile phone. This method requires you to enter a special code when logging into your account. After receiving the code, you will need to enter it on your mobile phone to access your account. This will make it much more difficult for fraudsters to access your data.

Use a security app

A mobile phone security app can help prevent phishing and smishing. These apps can detect threats, scan files and apps for malware, and block malicious links. Using a security app can help protect your mobile phone from attackers.

Check the URL and use trusted portals

When visiting a website from your mobile phone, it is important to check the URL. If the site is fraudulent, the URL may differ slightly from what you expect. We often see this in emails. Always check that you are opening the correct page before entering any data.

Make sure that everything is written correctly and does not contain numerous spelling mistakes and vague descriptions of the website, as no self-respecting company or bank would allow such mistakes.

Here are a few examples:

☑️ Domain spelling errors:
http://www.rnicrosoft.com – http://www.microsoft.com

☑️ Files with incorrect extensions.
Abogalis.pfd – Abogalis.pdf

☑️ The URL does not match the content being searched for.
☑️ Incomplete or abbreviated addresses.

Do not open suspicious files

Attachments to emails or text messages may contain malware or links to fraudulent websites. Therefore, it is important not to open suspicious files on your mobile phone. If you receive an email or text message with an attachment and are unsure whether it is safe, do not open it and delete it.

We may also receive files from people or organizations we know, such as our bank. If you are unsure about a link or do not trust its content due to the type of information provided in the message or email, contact the sender to verify its authenticity.

Be vigilant

The best way to avoid phishing and unpleasant situations is to remain vigilant. Always pay attention to suspicious emails and text messages. It can happen to anyone at any time. If an email or text message asks you to provide confidential information, make sure it is safe before sharing it. Always check the URL before visiting a website from your mobile phone.

Conclusion

Protecting yourself from phishing and fraud on your mobile phone may seem like a daunting task, but there are many ways to protect your information. Using a strong password and changing it regularly, updating your operating system regularly, using two-factor authentication, installing a security app, and checking URLs are some of the best ways to prevent these attacks. It is also important to avoid opening suspicious files, use a screen lock, and stay alert.