How Enterprises Secure Their Android Devices Against Mobile Malware

Last Updated on December 1, 2022

What is mobile malware? A malware (short for “malicious software”) is a piece of computer code written by cybercriminals to steal data and damage or destroy computers and computer systems. In the case of mobile malware, it targets specific devices such as smartphones and tablets and attempts to steal information from these devices and/or control them to perform any action an attacker wants. Mobile malware is a serious threat for businesses as it renders IT systems vulnerable to cyberattacks.

Malware is capable of partially taking control of operations performed on connected devices (computer, phone, tablet, etc.) without anyone knowing. This information can then be forcibly encrypted with ransomware. It can be further used to steal or delete sensitive data (passwords, bank account number, etc.) or even spy on devices, such as the apps used, websites visited, and more. All this information then falls into the hands of cybercriminals.

Types of mobile malware

There are several types of malware:

Viruses

Viruses are pieces of malicious codes that have the ability to replicate themselves in order to attack other programs. They may also use codes to modify other programs and files. Once this dangerous code has been introduced to a device, it can give cybercriminals the power to access your data and sensitive information.

Worms

Worms are quite similar to viruses. Their particularity is that they do not attach themselves to other programs on a device to spread. They exploit vulnerabilities in your security software to steal sensitive information. They may also install backdoors that can be used to access the system. They can easily corrupt files, and spread to multiple devices and computers.

Trojan horses

Trojans hide in programs and applications that users download and install on their devices without taking the necessary precautions. One of the most infamous types of trojan horses is the Trojan Rakhni, which has been in existence since 2013. This type of trojan horse can deliver ransomware or a cryptojacker to infected devices. 

Spyware

Spyware gives cyber attackers free reign to collect information about your device and device usage. This malicious software is usually downloaded onto devices unintentionally or without the users’ knowledge or permission. Spyware can monitor a user’s activities on a device (e.g. keystrokes) and transmit the information to the attacker who will use this to mount other forms of cyber attacks.

Ransomware

Ransomware works by taking information hostage. It locks users out of their files or devices by requiring a proper decryption key to access them. Often, cybercriminals will send unsolicited emails or text messages to victims of ransomware to demand a ransom (hence the name) to restore access to infected systems and devices.

How does mobile malware affect businesses?

We are consumers of information. Many of our business transactions and information are stored online. This may be on the cloud or public sharing platforms and can be accessed via our devices.  

For many people, it is necessary to have their devices with them in order to communicate on the go or use types of geo locations for customer satisfaction. However, this level of connectivity and communication comes with inherent risks if businesses do not use MDM solutions to secure the mobile devices. 

Downtime and loss of productivity: Mobile devices are constantly in and out of the corporate network, and work around internal and external firewalls. They connect via WiFi networks, some of which may be insecure. When devices fail and connectivity is not possible due to malware, it leads to downtime and loss of productivity. This can be costly for a business. The downtime not only interrupts and disrupts all areas of your business, it may also damage your reputation.

Financial costs: Cybersecurity is invaluable. If you are attacked, repairing the damages to your business can be time-consuming and costly. This can be prevented with a simple MDM solution.

Trust issues: In order for your employees to have trust in your organization, they must be kept up to date with changes in device security policies and the security measures adopted. Having a proper policy in place will ensure that employees are aware of potential threats and the best practices to keep these threats at bay.

5 tips for enterprises to protect Android devices against malware

There are some simple tools and tips that will help to protect your Android device. Here are our recommendations: 

1. Encrypt data 

Encrypting your data prevents cyber attackers from accessing your files, including on online storage services, such as DropBox or Google Drive. Data encryption can be enabled on any device and is easy to implement. 

2. Update and upgrade older systems 

You must frequently update your device’s system software and apps. However, you should never download apps from unknown or dubious sources. Only install apps from Google Play or reputable platforms. Older systems and apps may have known vulnerabilities that can be exploited by cybercriminals. Updating them (where possible) will make it harder for cybercriminals to mount an attack.

3. Use an MDM Solution

An MDM solution securely monitors and manages the mobile devices. The solution makes it possible to optimize the operation of devices and improve real-time actions. You can also turn any device into a payment terminal or set up kiosk mode, for effective marketing.

AirDroid Business MDM solution, for example, is an effective, all-round solution that provides effortless monitoring and provisioning for a fleet of devices across multiple locations. It uses a centralized approach to keep your devices secure and updated, thereby reducing the risk of cyber attacks.

4. Blacklisting and whitelisting 

The origin of the term “blacklist” dates back to at least 1884, but today it has a very different meaning. Blacklisting and whitelisting is a way to block specific apps, websites or email addresses. This reduces the opportunities that malware has to access your systems and devices. While they may seem like extreme measures, they can be very effective in blocking unauthorized access.

5. Ensure your WiFi connection is safe

Make sure your employees do not use unsecure WiFi networks (e.g. free, public WiFi) for work purposes. Whenever possible, use a VPN connection. A virtual private network (VPN) is a network that allows you to connect privately over an unprotected and unencrypted network. This encrypts your data, making it impossible for a hacker to determine what you are doing online or where you are. 

Secure your Android devices with AirDroid Business

AirDroid Business has an all-in-one solution that allows you to minimize the threat of mobile malware. It offers the following benefits: 

The solution will also give you a better overview of your mobile devices and how you can create a safe IT environment. You can easily monitor the function of your devices so that you are aware of how they are being used and by who.