There seems to be an app for just about everything these days. We rely on smart devices, essentially handheld computers, to help us complete daily activities with ease. But it is important to remember not all apps were created equal. Connected apps can raise security concerns because of their ability to track activity and collect data. As a result, security is one of the most significant issues for users and developers alike.
In this article, we will look at ways to navigate the connected future with smart devices. Modern technology provides higher efficiency and performance like deep learning cpu, npu in mobile phones or tcu in cloud computing. Therefore, we will also address some of the security concerns associated with apps and avoid common cyber attacks.
1) Developing Secure Apps
Apple has taken a proactive approach to security. The company created the Apple Developer Enterprise Program, allowing companies to develop available apps for their employees only.
Meanwhile, Google’s Android app store is considered less secure than Apple’s because Google does little to enforce security measures on the devices it powers. A study by Duke University and the University of London found that Google’s program enabled malware developers to exploit vulnerabilities in third-party apps more quickly due to a lack of oversight. However, these security concerns are not specific to smart devices — it is also a problem with both Apple and Android app stores.
2) Only Downloading from Trusted Sources
Malicious actors often create fraudulent apps that steal a user’s personal information, read emails and texts, access calendars and contacts and even take photos with the device’s camera. To avoid security risks associated with apps, it’s important to only download from trusted sources. When downloading an app, do a quick search of both the developer and the app. It’s a good idea to check with a phone’s official app store and review mobile privacy and security sensors.
3) Reviewing Permissions & Security Alerts
Before downloading an app, it is essential to review permissions requested by the app developer. App stores will provide a list of what each license is used for.
For example, an app that accesses the address book isn’t necessarily malicious. Still, if it can also read emails and send emails from your account without notifying you, something may be wrong.
If any permissions seem uncomfortable or unnecessary, try to find an alternative app. If this is not possible, it may be a sign that the app is not worth installing.
Another security measure to keep in mind is to ensure each downloaded device has a passcode that must be entered every time it’s opened. If an individual shares their phone with others, it is easier to access sensitive data.
4) Understanding Wi-Fi Networking
Smartphones connect to Wi-Fi networks when in range. Users need to understand how their devices interact with these networks.
For example, if an individual begins using a device’s browser and switches to another app, the smart device will still be connected to the original website through the browser. If a user leaves a Wi-Fi network without having closed the browser, that individual may be exposing sensitive data to a potentially untrusted party.
5) Deleting Unnecessary Apps & Restoring Default Settings
When an app is deleted from any smart device, it does not remove all its history from the file. It may still have records of browsing history, read emails and texts and access calendars.
Before setting up a new phone, it’s a good idea to restore default settings on the device. This will remove most apps pre-installed by manufacturers. Even after restoring factory settings, regularly check all devices for updates to prevent any potential security risks.
6) Using WPA2 Encryption
Finally, when using public networks, it is recommended to use WPA2 encryption to protect against man-in-the-middle attacks.
On the whole, smart devices tend to be more secure than traditional computers. However, each device will still require some level of attention to ensure the user’s data does not fall into the wrong hands.
By taking steps to review permissions requested by an app, keeping track of network activity and uninstalling unneeded apps, individuals can enjoy smart devices without compromising security.