More and more people are using their cell phones to make payments. However, the increasing convenience also introduces serious security risks that should not be overlooked. A compilation of the 10 most dangerous habits of cell phone users has been presented. A single button press could result in financial loss or leakage of your private information.
Ten detrimental mobile habits to avoid
1. Skipping the password
Many people, for the sake of convenience, do not set a password on their cell phones. This is not just convenient for them, but also for anyone who picks up their cell phone. Therefore, always set a password that makes potential snoopers sweat.
2. Shopping through a browser
Browsers have long been a breeding ground for viruses and phishing websites. Shopping online using a browser increases the risk of being ‘hooked’. Payment protection processes are often simplified, and the slightest inattention could lead to significant losses. It’s safer to use official apps for shopping and payments.
3. Incomplete app shutdown
Apps on your cell phone like to stay active in the background. Each time you think you’ve closed an app, it may still be running behind the scenes. Anyone who handles your cell phone could access these from the task manager and may bypass security to enter the app directly. It can be disastrous if sensitive apps like banking ones are not closed properly, especially if you lose your cell phone!
4. Indiscriminate use of WiFi
Connecting to WiFi is easy, but losing money is even easier. Beware of free WiFi hotspots set up by malicious individuals in public places to steal important information like usernames and passwords for payments. It’s best not to rely on free WiFi while making payments with your cell phone.
5. Leaving Bluetooth on
Bluetooth on cell phones can also spread viruses. Intruders can access your contacts, messages, files, alter your settings, and even make calls via Bluetooth spyware. Always switch it off when you’re not using it.
6. Not deleting personal information when changing cell phones
Many people do not clear their personal information when they discard their old cell phones. If these are sold without being properly cleaned up, personal information could easily end up in the wrong hands.
7. Downloading apps from non-official channels
Counterfeit apps look very similar to genuine ones. These are often found in non-official app download channels. Once you install such an app, your e-commerce account passwords and even your payment passwords could be at risk.
8. Clicking links without thinking
Incidents of text messages containing harmful links are on the rise. Cybercriminals often send fraudulent messages, luring users to install malware or login into phishing websites to obtain their passwords and financial information. Resist your curiosity and avoid clicking on suspicious links.
9. Indiscriminate scanning of QR codes
QR codes are a double-edged sword. While they bring convenience, they also carry risks. Fraudsters can hide virus links within QR codes for discounts or promotions. If you scan without discretion, your personal information and money could be at risk.
10. Storing excessive sensitive information on your cell phone
Not setting a password is bad enough. If you also enjoy storing too much personal sensitive information on your cell phone, the risk is significantly increased.
These are 10 risky habits of cell phone users. Do you recognize any of them in yourself? Change these habits as soon as possible to avoid endangering your private information!
Translated by Audrey Wang
