In today’s digital age, cybersecurity threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and hackers are constantly finding new ways to exploit vulnerabilities and gain unauthorized access to sensitive information. One of the most surprising and alarming ways that hackers can gain access to your device is by simply answering a phone call. In this article, we will explore the risks associated with answering phone calls and how hackers can use this tactic to gain access to your device.
How Can Hackers Gain Access To Your Device Through A Phone Call?
Hackers can gain access to your device through a phone call by using a technique called “voice phishing” or “vishing.” This involves calling a victim and tricking them into revealing sensitive information or installing malware on their device. However, there is another way that hackers can gain access to your device through a phone call, and that is by exploiting vulnerabilities in the device’s operating system or software.
Exploiting Vulnerabilities In The Device’s Operating System Or Software
In 2019, a vulnerability was discovered in the Android operating system that allowed hackers to gain access to a device simply by making a phone call. The vulnerability, known as “Simjacker,” allowed hackers to install malware on a device and gain access to sensitive information, including the device’s location and contact list.
The Simjacker vulnerability was caused by a flaw in the way that the Android operating system handled certain types of SMS messages. Hackers were able to exploit this flaw by sending a specially crafted SMS message to a device, which would then allow them to install malware on the device.
How Does Simjacker Work?
Simjacker works by exploiting a vulnerability in the way that the Android operating system handles certain types of SMS messages. Here is a step-by-step explanation of how Simjacker works:
- A hacker sends a specially crafted SMS message to a device.
- The SMS message is received by the device and is processed by the Android operating system.
- The Android operating system contains a flaw that allows the hacker to install malware on the device.
- The malware is installed on the device, allowing the hacker to gain access to sensitive information, including the device’s location and contact list.
Other Ways That Hackers Can Gain Access To Your Device Through A Phone Call
In addition to exploiting vulnerabilities in the device’s operating system or software, hackers can also gain access to your device through a phone call by using social engineering tactics. Social engineering involves tricking a victim into revealing sensitive information or installing malware on their device.
Using Social Engineering Tactics To Gain Access To Your Device
Hackers can use social engineering tactics to gain access to your device by calling you and pretending to be a representative from a legitimate company, such as a bank or a software company. The hacker may claim that there is a problem with your account or that you need to install a software update, and may ask you to reveal sensitive information or install malware on your device.
How to Protect Yourself from Social Engineering Attacks
To protect yourself from social engineering attacks, it is essential to be cautious when receiving phone calls from unknown numbers. Here are some tips to help you protect yourself:
- Be wary of phone calls from unknown numbers, especially if the caller is asking you to reveal sensitive information or install software on your device.
- Never reveal sensitive information, such as your password or credit card number, over the phone.
- If a caller claims to be a representative from a legitimate company, hang up and call the company back using a phone number that you know is legitimate.
- Never install software on your device unless you are certain that it is legitimate and safe.
Conclusion
In conclusion, hackers can gain access to your device through a phone call by exploiting vulnerabilities in the device’s operating system or software, or by using social engineering tactics. To protect yourself from these types of attacks, it is essential to be cautious when receiving phone calls from unknown numbers and to never reveal sensitive information or install malware on your device.
By following the tips outlined in this article, you can help to protect yourself from hackers and keep your device and sensitive information safe. Remember, it is always better to be safe than sorry, and being cautious when receiving phone calls from unknown numbers can help to prevent you from becoming a victim of a hacking attack.
| Year | Vulnerability | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | Simjacker | A vulnerability in the Android operating system that allowed hackers to gain access to a device simply by making a phone call. |
- Be wary of phone calls from unknown numbers, especially if the caller is asking you to reveal sensitive information or install software on your device.
- Never reveal sensitive information, such as your password or credit card number, over the phone.
Can You Get Hacked By Answering A Phone Call?
Answering a phone call alone is unlikely to result in hacking. However, if you interact with the caller and provide sensitive information or follow their instructions, you may be at risk. Hackers often use social engineering tactics to trick victims into divulging confidential information or installing malware.
It’s essential to be cautious when receiving calls from unknown numbers. If the caller claims to be from a reputable organization, verify their identity by contacting the organization directly. Never provide sensitive information, such as passwords or financial details, over the phone. If you’re unsure about the caller’s intentions, it’s best to hang up and block the number.
What Types Of Phone Call Hacks Are There?
There are several types of phone call hacks, including vishing (voice phishing), where hackers pose as representatives of a legitimate organization to trick victims into divulging sensitive information. Another type is the “yes” scam, where hackers record the victim’s voice saying “yes” to a question and use it to authorize unauthorized transactions.
Other types of phone call hacks include malware installation, where hackers trick victims into installing malicious software on their device, and SIM swapping, where hackers convince the victim’s mobile carrier to transfer their phone number to a new SIM card, allowing the hacker to access the victim’s accounts.
How Do Hackers Use Phone Calls To Install Malware?
Hackers may use phone calls to install malware by tricking victims into visiting a malicious website or downloading a malicious app. They may claim that the victim’s device is infected with malware and offer to help them remove it, or they may offer a free software update that actually installs malware.
Once the malware is installed, hackers can use it to steal sensitive information, such as login credentials or financial data. They may also use the malware to gain remote access to the victim’s device, allowing them to install additional malware or use the device for malicious activities.
Can You Get Hacked By Answering A Phone Call From A Number You Know?
Yes, it’s possible to get hacked by answering a phone call from a number you know. Hackers may use a technique called “number spoofing” to make it appear as though the call is coming from a trusted number, such as a friend or family member. They may also use social engineering tactics to trick the victim into divulging sensitive information or installing malware.
Even if you know the number, it’s essential to be cautious when receiving calls. If the caller is asking for sensitive information or requesting that you take a specific action, verify their identity and be wary of any suspicious requests.
How Can You Protect Yourself From Phone Call Hacks?
To protect yourself from phone call hacks, be cautious when receiving calls from unknown numbers. Verify the identity of the caller, and never provide sensitive information over the phone. If you’re unsure about the caller’s intentions, hang up and block the number.
You can also register your number on the National Do Not Call Registry to reduce the number of unwanted calls you receive. Additionally, consider using a call-blocking app or service to block suspicious calls. Always keep your device’s operating system and software up to date, and use antivirus software to protect against malware.
What Should You Do If You Think You’ve Been Hacked Through A Phone Call?
If you think you’ve been hacked through a phone call, take immediate action to protect yourself. Change your passwords and PINs, and monitor your accounts for suspicious activity. Contact your bank and credit card companies to report the incident and request that they monitor your accounts for suspicious activity.
You should also report the incident to the relevant authorities, such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your local police department. Consider seeking the help of a cybersecurity professional to help you remove any malware and secure your device.
Can Phone Call Hacks Be Prevented By Using A VPN?
Using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) can help protect your device from some types of phone call hacks, such as malware installation. A VPN can encrypt your internet traffic, making it more difficult for hackers to intercept and exploit your data.
However, a VPN may not protect you from all types of phone call hacks, such as vishing or social engineering attacks. It’s essential to remain vigilant and cautious when receiving calls, even if you’re using a VPN. Always verify the identity of the caller, and never provide sensitive information over the phone.