There are always new threats, and these are some growing threats that all small businesses need to know.

Juice Jacking

Juice Jacking is when a malicious actor unknowingly installs malware on a public charging station. So, when you are at the airport or coffee shop and think it is safe to charge your device, think again.

This malware can wreak havoc, as once it is installed it can give them full access to your system. And it’s not just happening to cell phones, but even laptops and tablets.

More charging stations are popping up and more people are using them, so you must be proactive about these types of attacks.

Ideally, we recommend avoid using public charging stations. If you must use a public charging station, first, make sure it is a trustworthy station. To protect your device from being infected, use a USB data blocker and make sure your device is in “charging” mode rather than “data transfer” mode. This can happen quickly, as the malware programs can be very small.

Malware-laden Apps

There are more smart phone users than ever…which means there are more apps to download. While there are a plenty of safe, legitimate apps, there are also a rising number malicious apps cybercriminals release, despite efforts of the app stores.

These types of malicious apps can do anything from take over your device, steal your data, and ruin your files. Or it may be used as a targeting effort to gain access to your MFA application.

To protect yourself you must be vigilant and do your research before downloading any app. Check reviews and research the developers. Be weary of any app that ask for full permission to your phone or ask you put your phone in developer mode. Internet filters can also stop known apps that have malicious malware on them.

Malicious QR-Codes

It’s no surprise that QR-Codes are becoming increasingly popular. They are easy to use and offer a convenient way to share information, but the are also a potential security risk. It can give hackers access into your device and data with the malicious QR code.

Being aware of the danger can help you take that extra steps to protect yourself. If you are the creator of the QR-Code, be sure to use a reputable QR-Code generator, so it is creating the correct link. You can also use a QR-Code Reader or Internet Filter that will scan the link for malicious content prior to ever going to it.

Public Wi-fi

Using Public Wi-fi without a VPN can be a security disaster! When you connect to a public Wi-Fi network, anyone else on that network could be watching your every keystroke or intercepting your data. This can even be true for a hotel or any open wi-fi. Malicious users will also take over a public wi-fi, or set up what looks like the public wi-fi, but it is actually the cybercriminals wi-fi. This allows them to be in control of the network.

You can protect yourself by using a VPN that will encrypt your data so the traffic can not be seen.

There will always be new threats, so it is important to stay current.