Intelligence Agency and OJK Tips to Prevent Phone Hacking and Account Drainage

The threat of cybercrime continues to rise alongside the development of digital technology. To help the public protect mobile devices from various cyberattack risks, the United States National Security Agency (NSA) has shared a number of security measures users can implement. The NSA summarised the guidance in a document titled Mobile Device Best Practices. This guide contains various security recommendations that can be used by iOS and Android device users to reduce potential cyber threats. One point emphasised by the NSA is the use of a six-digit PIN. This is not about the content, but about enabling the option to wipe phone data after 10 incorrect PIN attempts. Additionally, ensure Bluetooth is turned off when not in use. Avoid using public Wi-Fi and turn off the network when it is not needed. “Unused Wi-Fi networks saved on the phone should also be deleted,” the NSA stated. Physical control of the phone must also be maintained by the user, meaning it should not be used by unknown persons. Only install necessary applications used daily, and only download from official sources, including the App Store and Play Store. Phone users are also urged to immediately update software when available. The NSA also advises against using the device to send sensitive information and opening attachments from unknown emails. Furthermore, do not charge the phone carelessly. Only use cables and accessories from trusted manufacturers and avoid charging in public places. Ignore pop-up messages as they are likely dangerous. The NSA instructs users not to jailbreak iPhones or root Android devices. It also advises turning off Location Services when not in use. Lastly, the NSA recommends restarting the phone once a week. For safe mobile banking, the Financial Services Authority (OJK) advises customers to never disclose their access code or Personal Identification Number (PIN) to others, not to record or store SMS banking codes in places easily found by others, and to carefully check transactions before confirming them. After each transaction, wait for a response. Check notification messages via SMS or email and immediately contact the bank if a transaction is suspicious. Change the PIN if you suspect it is known by others. If a GSM SIM card is lost, stolen, or transferred, immediately notify the nearest bank branch or call the bank’s call centre. Be wary of internet applications that are spam or malware which may steal personal data. Do not conduct internet transactions in public places such as internet cafes or on free Wi-Fi, as data can be stolen by others on the same network. Do not forget to log out after completing internet banking transactions. If changing phones, ensure all data has been wiped to prevent misuse by others using the device.