How to Safely Shop Online With a Mobile Phone
The holiday season is a joyous time of the year. It’s when we gather with loved ones, relish festive meals, and maybe even take some well-earned vacations. It’s also the perfect time to snag the best deals on everything from electronics to household essentials. However, as mobile shopping becomes increasingly popular, it also becomes a prime target for scammers. Fortunately, a few precautions can help you stay safe while shopping on your phone. Let’s dive into the rise of mobile fraud and explore practical tips to protect yourself this holiday season.
The Rise in Mobile Fraud
Mobile fraud is growing at an alarming rate. According to Appdome’s latest U.S. Consumer Survey, 60.6% of Americans cite fraud as their top concern, and over 40% of global consumers report direct or indirect experiences with mobile fraud, malware, or cyberattacks. Apps are now the primary way people interact with brands, but skepticism about app security is growing—24% of consumers believe app developers don’t prioritize security, a 258% increase since 2021.
Common types of mobile fraud include:
- Phishing: Fake emails mimicking trusted retailers.
- Smishing: Deceptive text messages with malicious links.
- Vishing: Fraudulent phone calls pretending to be customer service representatives.
- Banking Trojans: Malware designed to steal login credentials.
- Accessibility Malware: Exploiting device accessibility features to control mobile interactions.
The sophistication of these scams underscores the importance of robust app security. As Appdome’s CEO Tom Tovar explains, consumers should look for apps with transparent security practices and proactive measures to address emerging threats.
Four Steps to Protect Yourself While Shopping on Your Phone
Staying ahead of scammers isn’t as hard as it may seem. Here are four actionable steps to safeguard your online shopping experience:
1. Shop on Trusted Apps
Stick to reputable platforms like Amazon, eBay, or Walmart. These apps often have robust security measures and transparent privacy policies. Additionally, always download apps from official app stores and check user reviews for reassurance.
2. Be Wary of Phishing, Smishing, and Vishing
Phishing emails, smishing texts, and vishing calls are common tactics to steal sensitive information. Verify the authenticity of any email, message, or call before clicking links or sharing details. Installing antivirus software on your devices can help detect malicious links and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information safe.
3. Limit App Permissions
Many shopping apps request permissions for access to your camera, contacts, or location, even if it’s unnecessary. Only grant permissions that are essential to the app’s functionality. Excessive permissions can be exploited by malware to collect sensitive data or perform unauthorized actions.
4. Protect Your Financial Information
When shopping online, ensure you’re using secure websites (look for “https” in the URL) and avoid saving payment details unless the app or website is trustworthy. Monitor your accounts regularly for suspicious activity and use apps or brands that prioritize built-in security measures.
Stay Vigilant and Shop Securely
Shopping on your mobile phone during the holiday season can be convenient and enjoyable, but it’s essential to stay alert to potential threats. By sticking to trusted platforms, verifying communication authenticity, limiting app permissions, and securing your financial data, you can minimize your risk and make the most of this festive season
