www.makeuseof.com 6 Ways Your Cell Phone Can Be Hacked—Are You Safe?

It's hard to imagine life without a smartphone. Cell phones have evolved dramatically, helping us control almost every aspects of our lives.

However, with so much centralized information on one device, you need to know how to protect your identity and your data. Cell phone hacks are now much more serious than ever before.

There have been incidents where people have ended up losing access to their private data, including photos, emails, and personal documents.Cybercriminals who hack phones don't just do this for fun; they also sell their services, which increases the security risks. Here are 6 ways your cell phone can be hacked.

1. Phishing Attacks

Phishing attacks are incredibly common. That's because they are so effective, without requiring a whole lot of effort.

Nobody installs malicious apps on their mobile phones knowingly. However, most people don't really know how to check whether an online link is safe or not. Hackers come up with elaborate phishing schemes, and create pages that are designed to look very close to the original. There are just a few minor tells, the potential lack of a SSL certificate being the most obvious.

If you enter your credentials on a phishing site, they are instantly transmitted to the hacker, who can then access your apps. The worst part is that most people who succumb to these hacks don't even know they have fallen victim.

Related: What Is an SSL Certificate, and Do You Need One?

It always pays to be wary of any links sent to you through suspicious numbers. Avoid clicking on them and randomly opening attachments or downloads. If you have even a shadow of doubt, avoid entering your personal details into suspicious links!

2. Keyloggers

A keylogger is a piece of software that runs discreetly on any device it's installed. Previously, keyloggers were primarily made for computers. Now, however, keyloggers can be used to hack into cell phones as well.

They don't even need physical access to the device to install a keylogger, either. If you download and install an illicit app and give it the due permissions (as we commonly do), it could start recording your keys and activity.

This information is then sent to the hacker. If you were wondering how to hack into someone's phone, this is one of the most effective ways to do so.

3. The Control Message Hack

Control messages are generally system messages scripted to gain control of a device. It's one of the toughest cell phone hacks to pull off, and requires specialized knowledge of the operating system's vulnerabilities.

The control message gives hackers access to the settings menu of the victim's cell phone. The worst part is that the victim might never find out that their settings are being controlled.

From there, hackers can easily uncheck several security protocols, thus exposing the device's vulnerability. Then, all it takes is a simple script to push information from the device onto a separate server.

It might seem a bit surreal, but there are numerous examples of people hacking phones remotely by simply using text messages.

4. Hacking via Spamming

Hacking a cell phone remotely via spamming is a slightly different way of doing things. It's one of the most effective cell phone hacks used for Android devices, primarily because Android devices become more accessible if you have a Gmail account.

Hackers start by writing someone's email ID into Google, and then click on the "Forgot Password" button.

When that happens, Google sends a verification code to the user's actual number. Most people dismiss this message, and that's what hackers generally prey on.

They then send a generic message asking for the verification code, claiming that it will auto-verify. People with limited tech knowledge don't think twice before forwarding the code.

As soon as a hacker gets the code, they add it in, and are able to access their victim's Google account. From there, they change the password, and gain access to their device.

5. The Stingray Method

The Stingray method is one of the oldest hacks in the book. Stingray is a company that manufactures high-end hacking equipment, though many also refer to this as an IMSI catcher hack.

This hack is executed with the help of specialized mobile surveillance devices. These devices fool the smartphone into thinking it's a cell phone tower, thus prompting a connection.

As soon as the cell phone plugs into the Stingray, the device grants hackers access to the phone's location. Not only that, but hackers can also intercept incoming and outgoing SMS, calls, and data packets.

Related: What Are Encrypted Messaging Apps? Are They Really Safe?

IMSI catches are generally used by law enforcement officers. Private invesigators and hackers also use them.

6. Spyware Apps

The reason why cell phone hacks are now so common is because spyware apps are so readily available. Many of these apps are designed for suspicious partners or spouses, though they can also be used for more sinister purposes.

In order to install such an app, you will have to gain access to the user's device. Once installed, the app runs in the background, and no one's the wiser.

These hacks don't show up in the phone's Task Manager, and they give complete control to the hacker. Such apps can:

The hacker is also able to access all stored files, including images, videos, emails, and other personal details.

And That's How to Hack Into Someone's Phone

If you want to protect your personal information and avoid becoming the victim of a hack, you need to always be cautious. Treat all random links as suspicious, and do your research before you download any new app. It's also a wise idea to install antivirus software on your phone, especially if you are an Android user.

Karim Ahmad is an experienced content marketer and copywriter with a focus on SaaS offerings, startups, digital agencies, and ecommerce businesses. He’s worked closely with founders and digital marketers over the past eight years to produce articles, eBooks, newsletters, and guides. His interests include gaming, traveling, and reading.

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