Posted on January 27, 2020 at 6:59 PM

Old Android and iOS Phones are More Vulnerable to Hackers

Some security experts have reported that those still using old Smartphones may likely lose their data through hacking. Those using old smartphones may not be getting the necessary updates. The experts have asked them to update their phones or get new safer devices if they don’t want to stay vulnerable to hackers.

Users of old iOS and Android phones should get the necessary updates to prevent any hacking attempts, according to the security experts.

Hackers can also spy and steal users’ personal data

Brian Higgins, a security expert at Comparitech, warned that gadgets and software that do not receive security updates from their companies are more vulnerable to hacking. He recommended that the users’ should manually update the software or devices or charge their devices.

Thousands of devices stop receiving updates from their parent companies as those companies discontinue the production of those devices. Also, the users may not be able to install antivirus protection because those devices do not accept the latest security patches.

This leaves these devices vulnerable to all sorts of attacks. The users keeping valuable information or using these vulnerable devices to send sensitive information are susceptible to attacks.

Also, Brian advised users not only to update their devices by making sure they delete all the relevant information and data on the old device.

If they keep their data and personal information on those old devices, they are simply inviting hackers to feats on their devices, which may bring severe consequences. Most hackers look for bank credentials, contacts, and pictures they can steal and make money out of it. They can easily access these details, and any very useful information would be used to their advantage.

Most previous apple phones are not likely going to get updates. These phones will only have old and outdated software, which makes them easy prey to hackers. According to Brian, hackers are more likely to try their luck in easily accessible phones than bothering themselves over more recently updated and more difficult devices.

A security expert at KnowBe4 and an awareness advocate, Javvad Malik, pointed out that these outdated devices are known as “asbestos in the home.”

Another security expert at Edgescan said that mobile phones without any support make it too easy for hackers to steal data and important information. They are rendered vulnerable because there is no security patch or any recent update that can protect those phones from being hacked. He further stated that the majority of phone hacking incidents are from outdated phones.

Different strategies employed by hackers

Hackers can use a lot of strategies to hack these devices. For instance, they can try connecting to users’ devices through Bluetooth. They can also use apps to break into the security wall of the phone or send malicious moirés via Whatsapp. When the user clicks on that link, they will open the floodgate for the virus in their system.

New devices are more secure

There are built-in prevention codes that detect hacking attempts and completely lock them out. Whenever the user connects to the internet, some of the mobile phones automatically sends updates to keep the phone properly secure from hacking attempts. This makes it extremely difficult for hackers to take control of newer phones with recent updates. Although this does not mean hackers do not try. Some of them succeed, but it’s on rare occasions with sophisticated hacking tools.

The life expectancy of mobile phones should be known based on the period of time updates for such a device is possible. If a mobile phone has stopped receiving updates, it’s best to change such a phone and get a newer one. Otherwise, the risk of keeping and using such a phone will be far greater than its usefulness.

Some security experts also pointed out that hackers may do more than just stealing information or details of the user. There are serious cases of identity theft, and hackers can get into the world of the user and steal vital information.

They could wake up one day and find out that their bank accounts have been wiped clean. According to the researchers, this is one of the reasons why they have to be careful and always make sure their phones are regularly updated. Those that no longer accept updates should be replaced.