This week in scams, attackers are leaning hard on familiar brands, everyday tools, and routine behavior to trigger fast, unthinking reactions. From fake Netflix billing alerts to malicious browser extensions and QR code phishing tied to foreign espionage, the common thread is trust being weaponized at exactly the right moment. 

Every week, this roundup breaks down the scam and cybersecurity stories making news and explains how they actually work, so readers can better recognize risk and avoid being manipulated. 

Let’s get into it. 

Netflix Billing Emails Are Back… And Still Catching People Off Guard 

The big picture: Subscription phishing is resurging, with scammers impersonating Netflix and using fake billing failures to push victims into handing over payment details. 

What happened: Multiple Netflix impersonation emails circulated again this month, warning recipients that a payment failed and urging them to “update payment” to avoid service interruption. The messages closely mirror Netflix’s real branding and include polished formatting, official-looking language, and even PDF attachments designed to feel like legitimate billing notices. 

What makes these scams effective is timing. Victims often receive them while actively reviewing subscriptions, updating payment methods, or considering canceling services. That context lowers skepticism just enough for a quick click before slowing down to verify. 

McAfee’s Scam Detector flagged the messages (which one of our own employees received this week) as phishing, confirming they were designed to steal payment information rather than resolve a real billing issue. 

Red flags to watch for: 

• Unexpected billing problems paired with urgent calls to act 
• Payment requests delivered by email instead of inside the app 
• Attachments or buttons asking you to “fix” account issues 
• Sender addresses that don’t match official Netflix domains 

How this scam works: This is classic brand impersonation phishing. Scammers don’t need to hack Netflix itself. They rely on people recognizing the logo, trusting the message, and reacting emotionally to the idea of losing access. The attachment and clean design help bypass instinctive spam filters in the brain, even when technical filters catch it later. 

Netflix has warned customers about these scams and offers advice on its site if you encounter one.

What to do instead: If you get a billing alert, don’t click. Open the Netflix app or manually type the site address to check your account. If there’s no issue there, the email wasn’t real. 

Fake Ad Blocker Crashes Browsers to Push “Fix It” Malware 

The big picture: Attackers are exploiting browser crashes themselves as a social engineering tool, turning technical disruption into a pathway for malware installation. 

What happened: Researchers reported a malvertising campaign promoting a fake ad-blocking browser extension called “NexShield,” which falsely claimed to be created by the developer of a well-known, legitimate ad blocker. Once installed, the extension intentionally overwhelmed the browser, causing freezes, crashes, and system instability. 

After restart, victims were shown fake security warnings instructing them to “fix” the problem by running commands on their own computer. Following those instructions triggered the download of a remote access tool capable of spying, executing commands, and installing additional malware. The reporting was first detailed by Bleeping Computer, with technical analysis from security researchers. 

Red flags to watch for: 

• Browser extensions promising performance boosts or “ultimate” protection 
• Crashes immediately after installing a new extension 
• Pop-ups instructing you to run commands manually 
• “Security fixes” that require copying and pasting code 

How this scam works: This is a variant of ClickFix attacks. Instead of faking a problem, attackers cause a real one, then position themselves as the solution. The crash creates urgency and confusion, making people more likely to follow instructions they’d normally question. It turns frustration into compliance. 

FBI Warns QR Code Phishing Is Being Used for Cyber Espionage 

The big picture: QR codes are being used as stealth phishing tools, with highly targeted attacks tied to foreign intelligence operations. 

What happened: The Federal Bureau of Investigation issued a warning about QR code phishing, or “quishing,” campaigns linked to a North Korean government-backed hacking group. According to reporting by Fox News, attackers sent emails containing QR codes that redirected victims to fake login pages or malware-hosting sites. 

In some cases, simply visiting the site allowed attackers to collect device data, location details, and system information, even if no credentials were entered. These campaigns are highly targeted, often aimed at professionals in policy, research, and technology sectors. 

Red flags to watch for: 

• QR codes sent by email or messaging apps 
• QR codes leading to login pages for work tools or cloud services 
• Messages that feel personalized but unexpected 
• Requests to scan instead of click 

How this scam works: QR codes hide the destination URL, removing the visual cues people rely on to judge safety. Because scanning feels faster and more “passive” than clicking a link, people often skip verification entirely. That moment of trust is what attackers exploit. 

Read our ultimate guide to “quishing” and how to spot and avoid QR code scams here. 

McAfee’s Safety Tips for This Week 

• Verify inside official apps. Billing or security issues should be confirmed directly in the app or website you normally use, not through email links or QR codes. 
• Treat extensions like software installs. Only install browser extensions from trusted publishers you already know, and remove anything that causes instability. 
• Slow down with QR codes. If a QR code leads to a login page or download, close it and navigate manually instead. 
• Watch for urgency + familiarity. Scammers increasingly rely on brands, tools, and behaviors you already trust to short-circuit caution. 

McAfee will be back next week with another roundup of the scams making headlines and the practical steps you can take to stay safer online. 

The post This Week in Scams: Netflix Phishing and QR Code Espionage appeared first on McAfee Blog.

Microsoft users across the U.S. experienced widespread disruptions Thursday after a technical failure prevented people from sending or receiving email through Outlook, a core service within Microsoft 365. 

The outage occurred during U.S. business hours and quickly affected schools, government offices, and companies that rely on Outlook for daily operations. Microsoft confirmed the issue publicly and said it was working to restore service. There is no indication the disruption was caused by a cyberattack, according to company statements.

Still, McAfee warns in these situations to be wary of phishing attempts as scammers latch onto these outages to take advantage of innocent users. 

“Outages like this create uncertainty, and scammers move fast to take advantage of it,” said Steve Grobman, McAfee’s Chief Technology Officer. “When people can’t get into email or the tools they use every day, it’s easy to assume something is wrong with your account — and that’s exactly the moment attackers look for.”

“Fake alerts start circulating that look like they’re coming from the real company, with logos and urgent language telling you to reset a password or verify your information,” Grobman added. “Some push fake support numbers or messages claiming they can restore access. If you’re impacted, slow down, go straight to the official source for updates, and don’t share passwords, verification codes, or payment details in response to an unexpected message.”

“Tools that can spot suspicious links and fake login pages help reduce risk — especially when people are trying to get back online quickly,” Grobman said.

Here, we break down what happened and why outages are prime time for scammers.

What happened to Microsoft Outlook? 

A Microsoft infrastructure failure disrupted email delivery. 

Microsoft said the outage was caused by a portion of its North American service infrastructure that was failing to properly handle traffic. Users attempting to send or receive email encountered a “451 4.3.2 temporary server issue” error message.

Microsoft also warned that related services, including OneDrive search and SharePoint Online, could experience slowdowns or intermittent failures during the incident.

When did the Microsoft outage happen? 

The disruption unfolded over several hours on Thursday afternoon (ET). 

Based on timelines reported by CNBC and live coverage from Tom’s Guide, the outage progressed as follows: 

Around 2:00 p.m. ET: User reports spike across Microsoft services, especially Outlook, according to Down Detector data cited by Tom’s Guide.

2:37 p.m. ET: Microsoft confirms it is investigating an Outlook email issue, per CNBC.

3:17 p.m. ET: Microsoft says it identified misrouted traffic tied to infrastructure problems in North America, CNBC reports.

4:14 p.m. ET: The company announces affected infrastructure has been restored and traffic is being redirected to recover service.

Tom’s Guide reported that while outage reports declined after Microsoft’s fix, some users continued to experience intermittent access issues as systems rebalanced. 

Was this a hack or cyberattack? 

No. Microsoft says the outage was caused by technical infrastructure issues. 

According to CNBC, Microsoft has not indicated that the outage was the result of hacking, ransomware, or any external attack. Instead, the company attributed the disruption to internal infrastructure handling errors, similar to a previous Outlook outage last July that lasted more than 21 hours. 

A message sent by Microsoft about the server issue.

Why outages  cause widespread disruption 

Modern work depends on shared cloud infrastructure. 

That sudden loss of access often leaves users unsure whether: 

• Their account has been compromised 
• Their data is at risk 
• They need to take immediate action 

That uncertainty is exactly what scammers look for. 

How scammers exploit big tech outages

They impersonate the company and trick users into signing in again. 

After major outages involving Microsoft, Google, or Amazon Web Services, security researchers, including McAfee, have observed scam campaigns emerge within hours. 

These scams typically work by: 

Impersonating Microsoft using logos, branding, and language copied from real outage notices 

Sending fake “service restoration” emails or texts claiming users must re-authenticate 

Linking to realistic login pages designed to steal Microsoft usernames and passwords 

Posing as IT support or Microsoft support and directing users to fake phone numbers 

Once credentials are stolen, attackers can access email accounts, reset passwords on other services, or launch further phishing attacks from a trusted address. 

How to stay safe during a Microsoft outage 

Outages are confusing. Scammers rely on urgency and familiarity. 

To reduce risk: 

• Do not click links in emails or texts about outages or “account recovery.” 
• Go directly to official sources, such as Microsoft’s status page or verified social accounts. 
• Never re-enter your password through links sent during an outage. 
• Ignore urgent fixes that ask for downloads, payments, or credentials. 

If you already clicked or entered information: 

• Change your Microsoft password immediately 
• Update passwords anywhere you reused it 
• Turn on or refresh two-factor authentication 
• Review recent account activity 
• Run a trusted security scan to remove malicious software (check out our free trial) 

How McAfee can help 

Using advanced artificial intelligence, McAfee’s built-in Scam Detector automatically detects scams across text, email, and video, blocks dangerous links, and identifies deepfakes, helping stop harm before it happens. 

McAfee’s identity protection tools also monitor for signs your personal information may be exposed and guide you through recovery if scammers gain access. 

FAQ 

Q: Is Microsoft Outlook still down? A: Microsoft said Thursday afternoon that it had restored affected infrastructure and was redirecting traffic to recover service, according to CNBC. Some users may still experience intermittent issues.

Q: Was the Microsoft outage caused by hackers? A: No. Microsoft has not reported any cyberattack or data breach related to the outage, per CNBC.

Q: Can scammers really use outages to steal accounts? A: Yes. During major outages, scammers often impersonate companies like Microsoft and trick users into signing in again on fake websites.

Q: Should I reset my password after an outage? A: Only if you clicked a suspicious link or entered your credentials somewhere outside Microsoft’s official site. Otherwise, resetting passwords isn’t necessary.

 

The post Today’s Microsoft Outage Explained and Why it Triggers a Scam Playbook appeared first on McAfee Blog.

Samsung appears to have leaked a built-in privacy display for the Galaxy S26 Ultra, hinting at a hardware-based feature designed to block side-angle viewing.

The post Galaxy S26 Ultra Leak Reveals Samsung’s Built-In Privacy Screen Feature appeared first on TechRepublic.

Researchers with Cyata and BlueRock uncovered vulnerabilities in MCP servers from Anthropic and Microsoft, feeding ongoing security worries about MCP and other agentic AI tools and their dual natures as both key parts of the evolving AI world and easy targets for threat actors.

The post Anthropic, Microsoft MCP Server Flaws Shine a Light on AI Security Risks appeared first on Security Boulevard.

Samsung appears to have leaked a built-in privacy display for the Galaxy S26 Ultra, hinting at a hardware-based feature designed to block side-angle viewing.

The post Galaxy S26 Ultra Leak Reveals Samsung’s Built-In Privacy Screen Feature appeared first on TechRepublic.

You thought you were scanning a menu. 

Or paying for parking. Or checking a package notice taped to your door. A quick scan, a familiar logo, a page that loads instantly on your phone. 

Nothing about it felt risky. 

That’s exactly why QR code scams are spreading so quickly. 

QR codes have become part of everyday life. They’re on restaurant tables, public signs, emails, mailers, and payment screens. We’re taught to treat them as shortcuts—faster than typing a URL, easier than downloading an app, safer than clicking a link. 

Scammers know that. 

Instead of asking you to click something suspicious, they ask you to scan something ordinary. Once you do, you can be routed to fake login pages, payment requests, or malicious sites designed to steal your information before you realize anything is wrong. 

This tactic has a name: quishing.

And as QR codes continue to replace links in the real world, understanding how quishing works is essential to staying safe online. 

What Is Quishing? 

Quishing is a form of phishing that uses QR codes instead of clickable links to trick people into visiting malicious websites or giving up sensitive information. 

The term combines QR and phishing, and it reflects a simple but dangerous shift in scam tactics: instead of asking you to click, scammers ask you to scan. 

Once scanned, a fake QR code can lead to: 

• Credential-harvesting login pages 
• Payment requests or fake invoices 
• Malware downloads 
• Fake customer support portals 
• Subscription traps 

Because QR codes don’t show a visible URL before you scan, they remove one of the most important scam warning signs people rely on. 

Common QR Code Scams to Watch Out For

While quishing attacks vary, most fall into a few predictable patterns.

1. Fake parking and payment QR codes

Scammers place stickers over legitimate parking meter QR codes. When scanned, victims are taken to fake payment pages that steal card details.

Red flag: A QR code that asks for full payment details without redirecting to a known parking or city service.

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2. Restaurant menu swaps

Fraudsters replace real menu QR codes with fake ones that redirect to phishing pages or malicious downloads.

Red flag: A menu page that asks you to “sign in,” download an app, or confirm personal details.

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3. Delivery and package alerts

Flyers or door tags claim you missed a delivery and instruct you to scan a QR code to reschedule.

Red flag: Vague delivery details and pressure to act quickly.

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4. Fake account security warnings

QR codes claim your bank, streaming service, or email account needs verification.

Red flag: Any QR code that demands immediate action for “security reasons.”

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5. Subscription traps and fake offers

Some QR codes promise discounts, refunds, or rewards but quietly enroll users in recurring charges.

Red flag: Fine print that’s hard to find, or missing entirely.

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What Makes Quishing Especially Dangerous

QR scams succeed not because people are careless, but because they exploit trust and routine.

Unlike traditional phishing emails, quishing:

• Happens offline and online at the same time
• Often appears in trusted physical locations
• Feels faster and more “legit”
• Bypasses visual link inspection

Once a victim lands on a fake site, the damage can escalate quickly, from stolen credentials to drained accounts to identity theft.

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How to Spot a Fake QR Code Before You Scan

You don’t need to avoid QR codes entirely, but you do need to slow down.

Check the physical context

Is the QR code taped on, scratched, or layered over another code? That’s a common tactic.

Look for branding inconsistencies

Misspellings, generic logos, or mismatched colors are red flags.

Preview the link

Most phone cameras now show the URL before opening it. Take a second to read it.

Be skeptical of urgency

Any QR code that pressures you to act immediately deserves extra scrutiny.

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How to Protect Yourself From QR Scams

Step 1: Treat QR codes like links

A QR code is a shortcut to a website. Apply the same caution you would to any link.

Step 2: Avoid entering sensitive information

Legitimate services rarely ask for passwords, payment info, or personal details via QR codes.

Step 3: Use mobile security tools

Security software can help detect malicious sites and block risky downloads before damage is done.

Step 4: When in doubt, go direct

Instead of scanning, manually visit the official website or app you trust.

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What to Do If You Scanned a Suspicious QR Code

If you think you interacted with a malicious QR code:

• Stop engaging with the site immediately
• Do not enter additional information
• Monitor your financial accounts for unusual activity
• Change passwords if credentials were entered
• Run a security scan on your device, check out our free trial
• Report the incident to the business or location involved

Early action can limit long-term fallout.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is quishing in simple terms?
Quishing is phishing that uses QR codes to trick people into visiting fake or malicious websites.

Are QR codes inherently unsafe?
No, but they can be exploited. The risk comes from where they lead, not the code itself.

Can scanning a QR code install malware?
In some cases, yes, especially if it prompts a download or redirects to a malicious site.

Are QR scams increasing?
Yes. As QR codes become more common, scammers are increasingly using them to bypass traditional defenses.

The post What Is Quishing? How QR Code Scams Work and How to Avoid Them appeared first on McAfee Blog.

Check Point dug into the details of VoidLink and found a sophisticated and quickly developed malware that was mostly generated using AI and putting a spotlight on what the future of cyber threats looks like.

The post VoidLink Represents the Future of AI-Developed Malware: Check Point appeared first on Security Boulevard.

The privacy rights group Fight for the Future was one of 44 organizations that sent a letter to lawmakers urging them to pull back on funding for ICE, noting the growing threats to U.S. citizens and others as the agency spends millions of dollars on its growing surveillance capabilities.

The post Fight for the Future, EFF, Others Push Back Against Growing ICE Surveillance appeared first on Security Boulevard.

Researchers with security firm Miggo used an indirect prompt injection technique to manipulate Google's Gemini AI assistant to access and leak private data in Google Calendar events, highlighting the challenges AI presents that traditional security measures can't address.

The post Exploiting Google Gemini to Abuse Calendar Invites Illustrates AI Threats appeared first on Security Boulevard.

Nicholas Moore, a 24-year-old Tennessee man, pleaded guilty to using stolen credentials of authorized users to hack into computer systems of the Supreme Court, VA, and AmeriCorps, obtaining sensitive information and then posting it online to his Instagram account.

The post Hacker Pleads Guilty to Access Supreme Court, AmeriCorps, VA Systems appeared first on Security Boulevard.

PromptArmor threat researchers uncovered a vulnerability in Anthropic's new Cowork that already was detected in the AI company's Claude Code developer tool, and which allows a threat actor to trick the agent into uploading a victim's sensitive files to their own Anthropic account.

The post Vulnerability in Anthropic’s Claude Code Shows Up in Cowork appeared first on Security Boulevard.

In a report a week before its Davos conference, the World Economic Foundation said 64% world business leaders are most worried about cyber fraud, replacing ransomware at their top concern. AI vulnerabilities also ranked high, as did threats fueled by geopolitics. The group argued that a coordinated approach to cybersecurity is needed.

The post Cyber Fraud, Not Ransomware, is Now Businesses’ Top Security Concern appeared first on Security Boulevard.

Given the threat-dominating space we cannot escape, we need a game-changer that becomes the ultimate tool for protecting our Android app. Now, imagine your organisation’s application is used by hundreds and thousands of Android users, given that your flagship Android app is always running on it. How sure are you that your app security is […]

The post Your Android App Needs Scanning – Best Android App Vulnerability Scanner in 2026 appeared first on Kratikal Blogs.

The post Your Android App Needs Scanning – Best Android App Vulnerability Scanner in 2026 appeared first on Security Boulevard.

Microsoft and law enforcement agencies in Europe disrupted the operations of RedVDS, a global cybercrime service that sold cheap and disposable dedicated virtual servers to threat actors that used them to run BEC, phishing, and other fraud campaigns. The vendor now wants to shut down its payment networks and find the operators behind it.

The post Microsoft, Law Enforcement Disrupt RedVDS Global Cybercrime Service appeared first on Security Boulevard.

A sophisticated phishing campaign impersonating WhatsApp Web uses fake meeting links and QR codes to hijack accounts and enable real-time surveillance.

The post This WhatsApp Link Can Hand Over Your Account in Seconds appeared first on TechRepublic.

A sophisticated phishing campaign impersonating WhatsApp Web uses fake meeting links and QR codes to hijack accounts and enable real-time surveillance.

The post This WhatsApp Link Can Hand Over Your Account in Seconds appeared first on TechRepublic.

Researchers warn of a new WhatsApp “GhostPairing” attack that silently links attacker devices to accounts, enabling message spying without users knowing.

The post New ‘GhostPairing’ Technique Enables Undetected WhatsApp Access appeared first on TechRepublic.

Researchers warn of a new WhatsApp “GhostPairing” attack that silently links attacker devices to accounts, enabling message spying without users knowing.

The post New ‘GhostPairing’ Technique Enables Undetected WhatsApp Access appeared first on TechRepublic.

Because Android uses an open source operating system, it usually gets a bad rap for being vulnerable to data loss and compromised apps as a result of malware, insecure app coding, unprotected cloud storage, outdated software, sideloading from untrusted sources, and even specific website vulnerabilities. Suffice it to say that any of these risks can be destructive and costly.

While Google addresses specific vulnerabilities, cyberthreats continue to evolve as criminals become more scheming or desperate. For these reasons, it is still best to exercise caution to protect the data on your device. In this article, we will share vital tips on how you can secure your device.

Essential tips for Android security

Determining if you’re vulnerable isn’t always easy. There are, however, some measures you can take to protect your device.

Keep your Android OS and security patches updated

Your first line of defense against Android vulnerability threats is maintaining current software. Android security patches fix security weaknesses that cybercriminals actively take advantage of to access your personal data, install malware, or take control of your device. When you delay updates, you leave known security gaps open for attackers to exploit.

To enable automatic updates, navigate to Settings > System > System update > Advanced settings, then toggle on “Automatic system updates.” For Google Pixel devices, security updates typically arrive monthly, while other manufacturers may have varying schedules.

On top of this, set your Google Play Store to auto-update apps by opening the Play Store, tapping your profile picture, going to Settings > Network preferences > Auto-update apps, and selecting “Over any network” if you have unlimited data or “Over Wi-Fi only” to preserve your data plan.

Install apps only from Google Play Store and verify developer permissions

One of the most effective Android phone security best practices is restricting app installations to the Google Play Store. Sideloading apps from unknown sources significantly increases your risk of installing malware, spyware, or apps with hidden malicious functionality.

Before installing any app, examine the permissions it requests. Apps asking for excessive permissions should raise your suspicions. Navigate to Settings > Apps > Special app access > Install unknown apps and ensure all toggles are disabled.

In addition, choose apps with consistent positive ratings and active developer responses to user concerns. Google’s Play Console policies provide guidelines for safe app development, but your vigilance remains essential.

Enable Google Play Protect and Safe Browsing in Chrome

Google Play Protect scans over 125 billion apps daily for malware and policy violations. While not perfect, this automated screening catches the majority of malicious apps before they reach your device, and even detects them after installation. In contrast, apps outside this ecosystem lack this protection layer.

Activate Play Protect by opening Google Play Store, tapping your profile picture, selecting “Play Protect,” and ensuring both “Scan apps with Play Protect” and “Improve harmful app detection” are enabled. This service runs automatic security scans and can remove or disable harmful apps even after you’ve installed them.

For comprehensive, real-time protection against phishing sites, malware downloads, and suspicious web content, enable safe browsing Android features in Chrome. Open Chrome, tap the three dots menu, go to Settings > Privacy and security > Safe Browsing, and select “Enhanced protection.” This setting checks URLs against Google’s constantly updated database of dangerous sites.

Use strong screen lock, biometric authentication, and 2FA

Modern Android devices offer multiple authentication methods, and using them strategically provides layered security for your most sensitive information. Set up a strong screen lock by going to Settings > Security > Screen lock and choosing either a complex PIN with at least 6 digits, a pattern with at least 6 points, or a password that combines letters, numbers, and symbols.

Enable biometric authentication, whether fingerprint and/or facial recognition, as an additional layer, but always maintain a strong backup PIN or password since biometrics can be circumvented.

For critical applications containing sensitive data such as banking apps, password managers, email clients, and social media, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) where possible for extra security.

Enable automatic cloud backups and device encryption

Android’s built-in backup and encryption features provide essential protection against data loss from device theft, hardware failure, malware attacks, or accidental deletion, forming a crucial part of your Android incident response strategy.

Enable automatic backups of your app data, call history, and device settings by navigating to Settings > System > Backup, then toggle on “Back up to Google Drive.” You can set the frequency to daily. For photos and videos, enable Google Photos backup with high-quality or original quality settings based on your storage plan.
Device encryption can be activated through Settings > Security > Encryption & credentials > Encrypt phone. Modern Android devices (Android 6.0+) typically have encryption enabled by default, but you will need to verify this setting. Google’s Android backup service documentation provides detailed information on what data is protected and how to manage your backup settings effectively.

Set up Google account recovery options

Your Google account serves as the master key to most Android functionality, so having an account recovery system can be invaluable to restore access to your device when local authentication methods fail. To ensure your recovery information is current, visit Security settings on your account profile, add a secondary email address that you can access independently, but avoid using another Gmail account as your backup. Include a mobile phone number for SMS verification, and consider adding multiple phone numbers if you frequently travel or change devices.

Google also provides one-time-use back-up codes that can restore account access when other methods fail. Download these codes and store them securely offline. Consider using a password manager like Google’s built-in option or a reputable third-party solution. Never store recovery codes in easily accessible digital formats like unencrypted text files or photos on the same device.

Configure Find My Device for remote management

Google’s Find My Device service provides powerful remote management capabilities that can prevent permanent data loss during Android vulnerability situations or lockout scenarios. This service allows you to locate, lock, or completely erase your device remotely.

To enable this feature, navigate to Find My Device through Settings > Security > Find My Device. Ensure that your location services remain active for this feature to function properly.

Take note that when you decide to remotely erase your data from your device, this feature completely wipes all local data but preserves the information you backed up to Google’s cloud services. Only use this option when you’re certain your back-up systems are current.

Implement comprehensive backup strategies

Android offers multiple backup solutions that transform potential data disasters into minor inconveniences. To store your photos, videos, SMS messages, and call logs, you can go to Settings > System > Backup and choose the frequency that matches your usage patterns, daily backups for heavy users, weekly for lighter usage.

For sensitive information that you would like to access even when offline, you might want to consider periodic local backups by connecting your device to a computer monthly and copying important files manually. Test your systems regularly by attempting to restore a small amount of data to ensure your backups work when needed and identify any gaps in your protection strategy.

Mobile incident response for Android

A mobile security incident can escalate from a nuisance to real damage in minutes, especially if an attacker can access your accounts, intercept messages, or install persistent apps. Speed matters when you respond, especially when prioritizing the high-impact steps that will stop the bleeding, regain control, and protect your data before you move on to cleanup and recovery. The actions below follow that order, so you can respond calmly and effectively even under stress.

1. Disconnect from untrusted networks immediately: Turn off Wi-Fi and mobile data instantly to prevent unauthorized access to your accounts or further data theft. Switch to airplane mode if you suspect active malware communication. Once disconnected, you can assess the situation and secure your device and accounts.
2. Use Find My Device to secure your device remotely: From a trusted computer or another device, go to Google’s Find My Device and lock your smartphone with a new passcode, display a message with contact information, or completely erase the device if necessary.
3. Change critical account passwords and enable MFA: From a trusted device, immediately update your passwords for critical accounts linked to your phone such as email, banking, social media, and other services containing personal or financial information. Add authentication methods where available and document which passwords were changed to avoid confusion later.
4. Review and remove suspicious apps and permissions: Check your device’s app installation history by going to Google Play Store > Menu > My apps & games > Installed and remove any you don’t recognize or trust. Next, review app permissions by going to Settings > Apps & notifications > Permission manager and revoke unnecessary permissions for location services, camera, microphone, contacts, messages, and administrative privileges.
5. Update your operating system: Ensure your device is running the latest version of its operating system by going to Settings > System > System update and enable automatic updates. Also update your installed apps by downloading new versions on your device’s app store. If your device is older and no longer receives security updates, consider upgrading to a supported model.
6. Restore from a known-good backup: Consider restoring your device to a trusted version, before the security incident occurred. A word of caution: this will remove any data created after the backup date, so weigh the security benefits against potential data loss.
7. File appropriate reports with relevant authorities: Document the incident and report it to appropriate authorities. If you suspect SIM swapping or carrier-related fraud, contact your mobile carrier immediately. Report identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission and Internet Crime Complaint Center. For incidents involving financial accounts, contact your bank, credit card company, and the major credit bureaus.
8. Monitor accounts and set up security alerts: Continue monitoring your accounts to detect any lingering effects of the security incident and prevent future compromises. Enable account activity notifications for all critical services, consider using a credit monitoring service, and review your credit reports regularly for unauthorized accounts or inquiries. Set up Google Alerts for your name and other personal information to catch potential identity theft attempts.
9. Get a mobile security solution: As Android devices become increasingly central to our lives, protecting them with a comprehensive mobile security solution has become essential. A robust mobile security app works continuously to identify and neutralize threats before they can compromise your device or steal your data.

Key capabilities of a reliable mobile security solution

When evaluating mobile security solutions for your Android device, focus on apps that offer comprehensive protection across multiple threat vectors. The most effective solutions combine several key capabilities into a single, user-friendly platform that doesn’t slow down your device or drain your battery.

• Web protection and safe browsing: Safe browsing protection has become increasingly important as cybercriminals focus on phishing attacks and malicious websites that exploit smartphone vulnerabilities. Your mobile security solution should work seamlessly with your preferred browser, whether that’s Chrome, Firefox, or another popular option.
• Wi-Fi security and network protection: Your security app should be able to monitor and check for signs of compromise and malicious hotspots, and alert you to networks attempting to intercept your data. It should also have virtual private network capabilities, encrypting your internet traffic even when connected to potentially unsafe networks to ensure that even if your connection is intercepted, your actual data remains unreadable to attackers.
• Identity monitoring and privacy protection: A trusted security solution will include robust identity monitoring features that detect signs of unauthorized use of your personal information. Comprehensive identity monitoring encompasses credit monitoring and surveillance of the dark web, social media platforms, and data broker sites.

Final thoughts

Your Android device holds your most precious digital memories, important work files, and personal information, making it a prime target for cybercriminals who continue to exploit new vulnerabilities. While threats like remote factory resets and malicious web attacks can disrupt your daily digital routine, you do have the power to protect yourself against them by keeping your OS and security patches current, enabling Google Play Protect and built-in safe browsing features, maintaining regular backups of your essential data, and considering a comprehensive mobile security solution that provides real-time protection. For additional steps to safeguard your Android mobile life, visit McAfee’s security best practices.

The post Guard Your Android Phones Against Loss of Data and Infected Apps appeared first on McAfee Blog.

The practice of locking our possessions is relevant in every aspect of our modern lives. We physically lock our houses, cars, bikes, hotel rooms, computers, and even our luggage when we go to the airport. There are lockers at gyms, schools, amusement parks, and sometimes even at the workplace.

Digitally, we lock our phones with passcodes and protect them from malware with a security solution. Why, then, don’t we lock the individual apps that house some of our most personal and sensitive data?

From photos to emails to credit card numbers, our mobile apps hold invaluable data that is often left unprotected, especially given that some of the most commonly used apps on the Android platform such as Facebook, LinkedIn and Gmail don’t necessarily require a log in each time they’re launched.

Without an added layer of security, those apps are leaving room for nosy family members, jealous significant others, prankster friends, and worst of all thieves to hack into your social media or email accounts at the drop of a hat. In this article, we will discuss what an app lock is, everyday scenarios you may need it, and how to set it up on your smartphone.

Your apps hold details of your life

Your mobile phone is more than just a gadget. It’s your wallet, camera, diary, and connection to the world. You likely keep photos, messages, social media, payment apps, and even confidential work files on it. To protect these bits of personal information, we use PINs, patterns, or biometrics to lock our devices, but once the phone is open, every app is fair game.

I f someone were able to go beyond your phone’s lock screen and gain access to the information in your phone, how much of your life could they see? A friend could scroll through your photos. Your child could open your shopping app and make purchases. Or a thief could get into your banking and social media accounts in seconds.

One way to avoid this from happening is by applying an app lock, a digital padlock that adds an authentication step such as a password, pattern, or biometric before an application can be launched.

Device locks aren’t enough

In your home, a locked front door keeps strangers out. But what happens if you unwittingly leave the front door unlocked and someone walks in? Without interior locks, your bedroom, office, and safe are now accessible to anyone.

This same concept applies to your device with unprotected apps. Once unlocked, apps like Gmail, Facebook, or mobile banking don’t always require you to log in every time. It’s convenient, until it’s not.

An app lock serves as an indoor lock, protecting your sensitive data even after an unauthorized person has accessed it, and maintaining privacy boundaries.

When you or another person attempts to open an app on your device, the system first triggers an authentication screen. After verifying your PIN, fingerprint, or face, the app will open, ensuring that your personal information stays off-limits to people who do not know your authentication step. In Android, app locks work seamlessly in the background without slowing performance.

This layered defense mirrors the cybersecurity approach used on enterprise systems, but scaled down for consumers. Each layer handles different threats, so if one fails, the others still protect you:

• Your phone’s screen lock guards the device.
• Your antivirus protects against malware.
• Your app lock safeguards the personal data inside.

Everyday scenarios where app locks matter

• Family and shared devices: If you are a parent, you might lend your phone to your child for a game. Within minutes, they’ve opened your email app or shopping account. With app lock, you can hand over your device without worrying they’ll see or purchase something they shouldn’t.
• Friends and social moments: You’re showing photos to a friend, and they accidentally swipe into your text or social media messages. An app lock keeps your private conversations private, no explanations needed.
• Traveling and public use: Whether you’re going through airport security or connecting to public Wi-Fi, app locks ensure that even an unlocked device doesn’t expose your sensitive apps if your phone is stolen or misplaced.
• Work and personal boundaries: Many professionals use personal phones for work. App locks separate business and personal data, securing email, document-sharing apps, and collaboration tools from family members or friends who borrow your device.

The risks of unprotected apps

Leaving apps unprotected can do more than just embarrass you. Here are some examples of how unprotected apps could lead to lasting harm:

• Email access lets intruders reset passwords for your other accounts and eventually lock you out. This applies not only to your personal email, but also to your corporate email account if you have a work profile on your phone.
• Social media enables hackers to impersonate you, violate your privacy or that of the people around you, or post malicious content that could damage your reputation and personal relationships.
• Banking and finance apps provide direct access to your money and accounts. Aside from the financial loss, cybercriminals who gain access to your accounts could apply for loans in your name or commit financial fraud in your name.
• Photo galleries reveal personal images, family details, or screenshots containing sensitive data.

Even just one unauthorized session could cascade into identity theft or financial fraud. That’s why security experts recommend app-level protection as part of a layered, reinforced mobile defense strategy.

Your guide to setting up your app locks on Android

While many Android phones include some app-locking capabilities, dedicated mobile security apps provide more robust options and better protection. Here’s how to set up app locks effectively:

1. Choose a strong authentication method

Use a 6-digit or longer PIN, complex pattern, or biometric such as fingerprint or face unlock. Avoid using the same PIN as your main device.

2. Select which apps to protect

Choose the priority mobile apps that you want to protect. Start with your most sensitive apps, such as:

• Banking and finance
• Email and messaging
• Cloud storage
• Photo gallery
• Shopping apps with saved payment info

3. Adjust lock timers for convenience

Set timeouts based on app sensitivity:

• Banking and shopping: Lock these immediately after you finish using them. This gives prying eyes zero chances to intercept your information.
• Messaging: You can be more lenient here. Allow for a 30- to 60-second delay in case you have additional thoughts to communicate.
• Work apps: For continuity, you can permit short delays in locking work apps during business hours. But once you leave work, you can set up the app locks to immediately activate.

4. Manage notifications and privacy

Hide notification content for locked apps. This keeps private messages or bank alerts from showing up on your lock screen.

The advantage of dedicated app locks

Most Android manufacturers now offer convenient, built-in app locking features. However, they are limited, often lacking biometric integration, cloud backup, or smart settings.

Dedicated solutions go further, providing:

• Seamless biometric access
• Anti-tampering protection
• Stealth mode to hide locked apps from view
• Remote access controls if your phone is lost or stolen
• Integrated alerts for suspicious log-in attempts

With an app lock, your mischievous friends will never be able to post embarrassing status updates on your Facebook profile, and your jealous partner won’t be able to snoop through your photos or emails. For parents, you can keep your kids locked out of the apps that would allow them to access inappropriate content without having to watch their every move.

Most importantly, app locks protect you from thieves and strangers in case of a stolen or lost device.

Final thoughts

Your phone carries more than just apps. It holds the details of your daily life. From private conversations and family photos to financial information and work data, much of what matters most to you lives behind those app icons. While a device lock is an important first step, it isn’t always enough on its own.

App locks give you greater control over your privacy by protecting individual apps, even when your phone is already unlocked. They help prevent accidental access, discourage snooping, and reduce the risk of serious harm if your device is lost or stolen. Most importantly, they allow you to use and share your phone, without worrying about who might see what they shouldn’t.

By adding app-level protection to your mobile security routine, you’re taking a simple but meaningful step toward safeguarding your personal information.

The post App Locks Can Improve the Security of Your Mobile Phones appeared first on McAfee Blog.