Mobile code
Mobile code
(also remote code, active capsules)
Mobile code definition
Mobile code is a type of code that runs on mobile devices like smartphones and tablets. It allows the device to perform many functions, such as internet access, running different mobile applications, and connecting and communicating with other devices without installation by the user. Yet, there is a security risk regarding a mobile code. It can contain malicious code that puts the data on the phone at risk. Some of those risks are viruses, forms of malware that can steal data and track user activity, and Trojans.
Mobile code security risks
- Man-in-the-middle-attack. It involves a third person either eavesdropping or changing the data that another is transmitting. This attack is possible on all devices, but its main target is mobile devices.
- Phishing. It is a very popular attack, usually sent via email with a malicious link or attachment. Phishing can affect any device, but when it comes to a mobile device, it has many ways of entering, for example, through social media, SMS messaging, other applications, and email.
- Mobile ransomware. It encrypts data on the mobile device and then asks for payment to give the decryption key.