How can you protect yourself from mobile commerce fraud and cyberattacks?

1 Use secure apps and websites

When you shop or pay with your mobile device, make sure you use reputable and secure apps and websites. Look for signs of encryption, such as a padlock icon, a green address bar, or a URL that starts with https. Avoid clicking on links or pop-ups that ask for your personal or financial information, and check the app reviews and ratings before downloading. You can also use a VPN (virtual private network) to encrypt your data and hide your online activity from hackers.

2 Update your device and software

Keeping your device and software updated is essential for protecting yourself from mobile commerce fraud and cyberattacks. Updates often include security patches that fix vulnerabilities and bugs that hackers can exploit. You should also install a reliable antivirus and firewall software on your device, and scan it regularly for malware. Additionally, you should back up your data to a cloud service or an external drive, in case your device is lost, stolen, or compromised.

3 Use strong passwords and biometrics

One of the easiest ways to prevent mobile commerce fraud and cyberattacks is to use strong passwords and biometrics for your device and accounts. A strong password is one that is long, complex, and unique, and that you change frequently. You can use a password manager to generate and store your passwords securely. Biometrics, such as fingerprint, face, or iris recognition, are another layer of security that you can use to unlock your device or authenticate your transactions. You should also enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for your accounts, which requires a code or a token in addition to your password.

4 Monitor your transactions and alerts

Another tip to protect yourself from mobile commerce fraud and cyberattacks is to monitor your transactions and alerts. You should review your bank statements and credit card bills regularly, and report any suspicious or unauthorized charges. You should also sign up for alerts from your bank or card issuer, which can notify you of any unusual activity or fraud attempts. Moreover, you should be wary of phishing emails, texts, or calls that claim to be from your bank or card issuer, and that ask for your personal or financial information. Never reply to or click on such messages, and contact your bank or card issuer directly to verify their legitimacy.

5 Be careful with public Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

Finally, you should be careful with public Wi-Fi and Bluetooth when you use your mobile device for commerce. Public Wi-Fi networks are often unsecured and can expose your data to hackers who can intercept or modify it. You should avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive tasks, such as shopping or banking, and use your mobile data or a VPN instead. Similarly, you should turn off your Bluetooth when you are not using it, as hackers can use it to access your device or send you malicious files. You should also avoid pairing your device with unknown or untrusted devices or networks.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?