Technology and digitization have made everyone’s lives easier and more interactive; technology has revolutionized medical procedures and every industry around the world. People can now bank, work and socialize on their mobile devices. iGaming has also jumped on the mobile app bandwagon with casual games, interactive games and even casino apps with real money offers.
The US has 139 million mobile gamers and that includes casino applications as well. Games like blackjack, baccarat and roulette were the most popular games among surveyed American users.
While increased accessibility and convenience are welcomed benefits, there are some risks attached to mobile gaming and gambling. Every time you download an app onto your cellphone, there is the possibility that you could unknowingly download malware onto your device.
What Is Malware?
Malware is malicious software, programs, or files intentionally harmful to a computer, server, or network. There are different types of malware, the most common being a trojan horse, virus and spyware.
- A trojan horse mimics legitimate software that executes its malicious functions once installed and activated.
- Viruses attach themselves to files and applications; once in the device, they spread and infect other programs.
- Spyware is designed to collect data and spy on the user’s activity, all without their knowledge.
How Is Malware Transported?
Mobile apps can carry viruses and worms into your phone’s operating system, and betting apps are not immune to this either. Malware is typically embedded in an application, and when you download the app, whatever is on the app is transferred onto your phone.
Downloading your mobile app from an unreliable source exposes you to this risk, and not just the data on your phone is compromised. There could be a program in the app designed to copy all sensitive data, such as your credit card details.
Cyberniaganiss are now creating fake smartphone applications that resemble legitimate apps. They attach malicious software to these apps to copy users’ data. A classic example of this is the Netflix email phishing play.
Signs Your Mobile Has Malware
Signs that your phone is infected include slow response times, unusual increase in data usage and battery draining faster than usual. A malware attack can also affect a phone’s microphone, camera and GPS. Your phone can also feel physically hot to the touch.
How to Keep Safe
Below are a few things to keep in mind when downloading mobile apps:
- You can use Google Play Protect if you are an Android user. This feature runs a safety check on all apps on their Play Store before downloading them. It warns you of potential threats and, in some instances, may even remove or delete harmful apps on your phone.
- Review permissions and data required by your apps. For example, no reason justifies a casino app to have access to your contacts or messages.
- Regularly update your phone’s software, which will also update the security patches.
In Closing
In 2021, ransomware cost US banks close to $1.2 billion. This figure illustrates how important cybersecurity has become. You may think it doesn’t affect you, but a simple game download could be a huge risk. Be vigilant with your betting apps and casino downloads and take the necessary precautions.
