Urgent warning to all iPhone and Android users after secret cyberattack targets millions of devices – here’s how to protect yourself

Anyone with an iPhone or Android should turn their device on and off once a week, officials say — to protect them from hackers.

The idea is to protect against zero-click exploits, where hackers can upload malicious apps, spyware and impersonation scams to devices without users clicking any links.

The National Security Agency (NSA) has urged users to restart their phones at least once a week, which would wipe out the vast amount of sensitive information, including apps and other information that is constantly running in the background.

The NSA has also warned that users should be cautious when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks and are advised to update their phone software and apps regularly.

The NSA warned that the advice is not 100 percent effective, but will provide at least partial protection against some malicious activity

Android and iPhone users have been told to restart their phones once a week and turn off WiFi and Bluetooth to prevent cyber attacks. Criminals can use zero-click exploits to infect a device and collect data without the user having to click a link or download a file.

An NSA document listed the many steps iPhone and Android users should take to reduce the risk of a cyberattack.

Rebooting your phone is one of the lesser-known methods of combating cyber attacks, as it prevents cyber criminals from using a one-click exploit.

If the system is not powered on and off, a cybercriminal can manipulate opened URLs to execute code to exploit any software vulnerabilities on the device and install a malicious file.

By turning the phone off and on again, users also reduce the chance of spear-phishing, where an attacker sends targeted fraudulent emails to steal sensitive information such as login credentials.

The document also informed users that it is important to update software and apps regularly to ensure your device is secure.

Over time, hackers find new ways to break into a system, but updating old software will remove any bugs or loopholes they may have used to gain access to your data.

The NSA has also recommended that people turn off their Bluetooth when not in use, as this reduces the chance of people gaining unauthorized access to their devices.

The advice is not 100 percent effective, the NSA warned, but it should provide partial protection against some malicious activity.

“Threats to mobile devices are becoming more common and increasing in size and complexity,” the NSA warned, adding that some smartphone features “provide convenience and capabilities, but sacrifice security.”

Users should also disable their WiFi and delete unused networks that cybercriminals can use to target their phones.

When connecting to a WiFi network, it is important to watch out for SSID confusion attacks that trick users into connecting to their hotspot instead of the official WiFi of the establishment with a similar network name.

The NSA recommended that people turn off their Bluetooth when not in use, as this reduces the chance of people gaining unauthorized access to their devices

A strong lock screen with at least a six-digit PIN will add much-needed protection when combined with the feature that prompts the smartphone to wipe itself after ten incorrect attempts.

It further warned that people should avoid opening email attachments or links from an unknown source, which could allow malicious software to be installed without the person’s knowledge.

“Falling for social engineering tactics, such as responding to unsolicited emails requesting sensitive information, can result in account compromise and identity theft,” said Oliver Page, the CEO of cybersecurity company Cybernut. Forbes.

“These phishing attempts often impersonate legitimate entities, tricking individuals into disclosing confidential details.

“Trusting calls or messages without verification can have serious consequences, as scammers manipulate victims into revealing sensitive information or taking actions that compromise their safety.”

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is also suffering greatly warned users against dismantling security settings that could give cybercriminals the opportunity to break into the phone.

“Tampering with your phone’s factory settings, jailbreaking, or rooting your phone undermines the built-in security features of your wireless service and smartphone while making it more susceptible to attack,” the FCC warned.

According to StatisticalLast year, 353 million people had their data compromised in the US, including breaches, leaks and exposures.