Smartphone Users Beware: Why You Shouldn’t Share Sensitive Information Over SMS
Smartphone owners have been warned about sharing sensitive information over SMS as it poses a significant risk to their privacy and security. In today’s digital age, where passwords are the keys to our bank accounts, social media profiles, and a plethora of personal information, it is crucial to be mindful of how we share this sensitive data.
The Dangers of Sharing Passwords via Text Message
Experts from Keeper Security have highlighted the dangers of sharing passwords via text message. While it may seem like a convenient way to share information, text messages are not encrypted, leaving them vulnerable to interception by malicious actors. This exposes your accounts to the risk of being compromised, putting your sensitive data at stake.
Vulnerabilities in Text Messaging
The process of sending a text message involves multiple points of vulnerability, including the sender’s phone, the carrier’s network, and the recipient’s phone. Two common risks associated with sharing passwords via text message are SIM swapping and Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) attacks.
SIM Swapping
SIM swapping occurs when a threat actor gains access to your mobile phone account information and transfers it to their phone. This enables them to access your phone’s data and important accounts, such as cryptocurrency wallets and bank information.
Man-in-the-Middle Attacks
An MITM attack involves a malicious third party intercepting communications between two participants to steal data. Additionally, hackers may use ‘packet sniffing’ attacks to capture information transmitted over public Wi-Fi, including sensitive data like email logins, bank details, social security numbers, personal photos, and videos.
How to Protect Your Data
To safeguard your sensitive information, consider using password managers, password-sharing apps, and secure messaging apps. Password managers offer secure storage and management of passwords with encryption and two-factor authentication features. Password-sharing apps provide a secure way to share passwords with limited-time access and additional security measures. Finally, opt for messaging apps with end-to-end encryption for enhanced security, but ensure that the recipient also uses the same secure app to maintain data protection.
By following these precautions and avoiding sharing sensitive information over SMS, smartphone users can protect their privacy and mitigate the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access to their personal accounts. Stay vigilant and prioritize the security of your information in today’s interconnected digital landscape.