Understand how hacker attacks work and learn how to avoid them

According to a report released by Netscout, Brazil is the main target of cyberattacks in the Latin American region. As indicated by the research, the country registered a 19% increase in the volume of attempted attacks in the second half of 2022 compared to the first half. Within this context, hackers direct their activities against large organizations, seeking to cause damage to confidential information by taking advantage of vulnerable systems.

Considering that prestigious organizations, such as renowned hospitals, banking institutions and even government entities, may be exposed to these attacks, the magnitude of the situation when it comes to vulnerability to possible attacks targeting mobile devices becomes evident.

How do hackers break into cell phones? Here's how to protect yourself

It was recently reported that hacker Walter Delgatti Neto was sentenced to 20 years in prison for hacking into the cell phones of officials involved in the Lava Jato operation and releasing their messages. This immediately raises an issue: if not even the judicial system was able to protect itself from a cyberattack, it is easy to imagine that we, ordinary citizens, are even more vulnerable, right?

However, by being aware of the tactics that criminals may use, we can take steps to protect ourselves. First, it is essential to understand that there are several free hacking software options available online. Therefore, not every hacker needs to have direct contact with the device to carry out an attack. To do this, it is worth knowing some of the most commonly used methods and taking precautions:

Phishing

To obtain personal data, hackers use the method of impersonating a company or even another person, in order to gain the user's trust and obtain the information. Typically, they send codes, images and messages that look like a company, usually through emails and text messages.

Therefore, it is important to avoid clicking on unknown images and links, as they are usually malicious and can carry all your information to harm you in some way.

SIM card swap trick

In this attack, the hacker contacts your carrier, pretends to be you, and requests a replacement SIM card. The carrier then sends the new SIM card to the hacker (who thinks it’s you), and your old SIM card is quickly deactivated. This means that the hacker has stolen your number and taken control of all your data.

And if you think that's all there is to it, you're wrong. The SIM card swap trick has gained yet another hacker strategy, called Simjacker, where you simply click on the message with the code and, in a few seconds, hackers will be spying on your device.

Bluetooth attack

In the latter case, criminals look for vulnerable mobile devices with a working Bluetooth connection. However, the attack only happens if the hacker is in the same physical space as the device. Therefore, as long as they are close to the device, they can access a lot of personal information.

Tips for protecting your cell phone from hacker attacks

• Whatsapp: Two-step verification

Do this in: Settings, click on Account, then on Two-step verification and, finally, click on Activate, following the procedure that will appear on the screen.

• Instagram: Two-Factor Authentication

First, enable two-factor authentication, then make sure to keep your phone number and email up to date. Also, keep an eye on login activity and choose a strong password.

• Encrypt your device

By doing this, you protect your calls, messages and other important information.

• Turn off your Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

Do this whenever you are in a public space, as hackers targeting you can easily access your device through these two types of connections.

• Block your SIM card

Having a SIM card with a password can save you from many problems with possible hacks. On the internet, you can find step-by-step instructions on how to block your SIM card, if necessary, depending on your device's operating system.

• Choose extra, safe protection

There are free apps that can do this, whether for Android or iOS. And if you're one of those who prefer to pay for this security, companies like Kaspersky and McAfee offer this type of protection.

So, tell us: has your cell phone ever been hacked or do you know someone who has been in this situation?