As cybersecurity company Lookout Incorporated has discovered, hackers are increasingly attempting to steal login data. To do this, they rely on phishing and the use of malicious apps. Companies and users are advised to keep their operating system up to date.
iOS devices in particular are affected
Apple products are generally regarded as secure and low-maintenance. Owing to these advantages, many companies and, in some cases, the public sector opt for Apple devices. As Lookout Incorporated has now discovered, Apple's days as the more secure option may be numbered. The latest Mobile Threat Report states that in the first three quarters of 2024, 19% of all Apple devices used in companies fell victim to phishing.
Phishing is a type of cybersecurity crime where attackers attempt to steal money, sensitive data or install malware on a victim's device. Phishing attacks are often disguised as a message or an alert from a legitimate source such as a company, friend or acquaintance.
10.9% of all Android smartphones were subject to phishing, also each of the first three quarters in 2024. Other findings of the Mobile Threat Report include a rather alarming 17% increase in enterprise-focused credential theft and phishing attempts since last quarter (Q4 2024) and a 32% increase in the detection of malicious apps. This data was gleaned from an analysis of more than 220 million devices, 360 million apps and billions of web items.
Vulnerabilities are specifically targeted
One of the main problems is the use of outdated operating systems that are no longer supplied with the latest security updates and thus have vulnerable security gaps. In some cases, users are even failing to set up a device lock, which is also a security risk.
Lookout also holds the technology companies accountable. A lot of time passes between the detection and elimination of vulnerabilities, during which potential attackers can gain access to the end device. Companies are thus advised to install available updates as soon as they become available.
In sum, only when IT infrastructure is kept up to date and is equipped with comprehensive security measures does it provide the greatest possible protection.
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Image source: Pixabay / AhmedAlMaslamani