The most recent warning from the FBI is that hackers are increasingly targeting mobile banking app users to get into their bank accounts. This warning is timely at this time because more people opt to use banking apps than physically visit ATMs or banks due to the pandemic.

In a blog post titled, Increased Use of Mobile Banking Apps Could Lead to Exploitation, the FBI wrote:

“Cyber actors target banking information using banking trojans, which are malicious programs that disguise themselves as other apps, such as games or tools.”

The above statement points again to the danger of downloading third-party apps from untrusted sources. You can see our article on how you can protect yourself from these types of attacks.

The FBI continues:

“When the user launches a legitimate banking app, it triggers the previously downloaded trojan that has been lying dormant on their device. The trojan creates a false version of the bank’s login page and overlays it on top of the legitimate app.”

Also read:
– How To Secure Your Whatsapp And Retrieve Your Hacked Account
– Thinking About Device Security, See Why Kaspersky Password Manager Is Unique
– Before You Start Shopping Online, Have These Ten Security Hacks In Mind

This is another popular tactic that hackers use. They create a false platform that mimics an authentic one. When you enter your credentials into this false login page, the trojan passes you to the real banking app login page so you do not realise you have been compromised. However, it will capture those details you entered. Then, armed with these, the hacker can access your bank account.

Another tactic that hackers use, which the FBI pointed out in its warning, is using fake apps. These apps appear to be the real banking app but when you try to login with it, it will give an error message. Then, it will prompt you to use codes sent to your smartphone. If you fall for this, the hacker will be able to access your account with these codes.

To protect yourself, here are some tips that the FBI provides:

• Only download apps from trusted sources.
• Use two-factor authentication.
• Use strong passwords.
• Report suspicious emails, text and apps to your bank.

Remember, hackers do not discriminate when targeting people. Anyone and everyone is a prospective victim to them.

For your daily dose of tech, lifestyle and trending content, make sure to follow Plat4om on Twitter @Plat4omLive, on Instagram @Plat4om, on LinkedIn at Plat4om, and on Facebook at Plat4om. You can also email us at info@plat4om.com. Finally, don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel HERE.