It has recently been updated to help uncover all types of geo-tracking apps that identify people’s movements using their GPS data.
Over and above the threat of stalkerware, our research shows that malware and adware, although again rather low, still remain cyberthreats that we urge users in South Africa, Kenya and Nigeria to be cognisant of and protect against,” added van den Heever.
Kaspersky’s analysis of mobile threats in 2020 shows that in Kenya 7 percent of users were affected by malware, and 13 percent by adware.
In Nigeria, the situation is similar, also showing that 7 percent of users were impacted by malware and 17 percent by adware.
In South Africa, 4 percent of users were targeted with malware and 7 percent with adware.
“While we advocate that mobile users must protect their devices with a strong password, they should also never leave their phones unattended.
Furthermore, it is important to block the installation of apps from third-party sources in their device settings and install a reliable mobile antivirus solution that detects and warns them about stalkerware and other malware.
Lastly, do not click on links in spam emails,” warned van den Heever.