Mobile security refers to the methods by which smartphones and other handheld devices can be safeguarded against malicious software, network compromise, and theft.

Malicious apps are a major concern for businesses and consumers alike. They can be installed on devices without the owner's consent, collecting personal data in the process.

?What Are Malicious Apps

Malicious apps often appear as legitimate applications or clones of official ones in order to steal sensitive information. They may even have been Trojanised, enabling cybercriminals to install adware and take control of the device.

Some types of malware can collect data and take screenshots without the user's knowledge, which could then be exploited to obtain sensitive information. According to one study, Lin et al. (2014) identified Screenmilker, which was capable of covertly taking screenshots and acquiring sensitive on-screen data.

Security technology company Bitdefender recently discovered 35 malicious applications on Google Play Store that deceived users into downloading them, then altered their names and icons to hide their presence from ordinary Android users.

These apps often have negative reviews on Google Play and open intrusive ads automatically in new browser tabs every two hours. Furthermore, they direct users to sites that steal sensitive information or generate 'pay-per-click' revenue for their operators.

?What Is Device Encryption

Mobile device encryption is one of the best methods for protecting your data. Not only does it prevent files and folders from falling into irresponsible hands, but it also makes it harder for someone to access company or government secrets if they were to break into a computer or laptop.

Apple began encrypting iOS devices in 2014, but Android users can also protect their data. This includes the operating system, apps and files on their device.

Though this can help protect your data, it is still not 100% secure. To truly safeguard your phone and laptop, it's essential to encrypt all of your files on a regular basis.

If your device is encrypted, it will decrypt only with a passcode or touch ID/face ID. To check whether your Android or iPhone is protected, go to Settings then Security.

?What Is Pre-Removal Protection

Loss or theft of a mobile device can result in devastating financial and personal damages for an individual and/or company. Remote wipes enable businesses to quickly respond and delete sensitive information from any device quickly and securely.

Secures Data From Ex-Employees: If an employee is terminated or leaves, remote wipe software can quickly delete business data from their devices to prevent unauthorized access to valuable corporate property.

Ensures Privacy: A remotely wipe can erase data on any device to protect your personal information from being misused by others. This is especially essential in cases of identity theft or corporate espionage.

Data Can Be Recovered: Remote wipe solutions may also be able to recover data from a stolen or lost device, particularly old and solid-state drives.

Only Protects Against Knowledgeable Loss/Theft: A remote wipe will only delete data if an administrator sends a command to the device, meaning it won't be erased if an employee is unaware their device has been stolen or waits until someone reports it.

Virus removal is a critical element of mobile security. Having viruses on your phone can result in data loss, identity theft and even online scams.

Computer viruses are software programs that can cause slow downs in your system and even data loss. The simplest way to detect and eliminate them is by running an antivirus program.

Some viruses only impact one part of the system, while others can completely crash it. Removing them isn't always straightforward, but with the right tools and techniques it's achievable.

If you believe your Android device may have been infected with a virus, enter Safe Mode to block access to third-party apps that could be spreading the infection. Doing this will protect both your device and prevent the malware from infecting other devices on your network.