Can Bluetooth be used to steal information from a smartphone?

Hi there,
Of course.
A few tips:
1) PROTECT YOUR MOBILE WITH AN ORIGINAL CODE

The code or password is an authentication method to use a resource or service whose access is restricted and protected. For a mobile, using a code strengthens protection and helps prevent data theft in case of loss or theft of the device. Forget passwords that are too simple, like 1234, or default passwords set by the manufacturer, like 0000.

2) PAY ATTENTION TO PASSWORDS... FOR MOBILE APPS AS WELL

Nowadays, mobile apps exist to manage different aspects of daily life: checking banking data, paying bills, online claims. Authentication via an identifier and password is often necessary. To prevent these accounts from being accessible if your mobile is stolen, it is important not to use easily guessable passwords (for example date of birth), not to save them in advance, and to change them frequently.

3) DISABLE THE BLUETOOTH FUNCTION

Bluetooth technology, commonly used in mobile phones, allows connection with computers, personal assistants, or hands-free devices, such as Bluetooth headsets. It is also a real doorway for anyone malicious wanting to steal data. To avoid any intrusion, it is imperative to ensure that Bluetooth is locked when it is no longer needed.

4) FREE ACCESS TO PUBLIC WI-FI HOTSPOTS: BEWARE...

These Wi‑Fi hotspots are generally advertised and available in more and more public places, such as hotels, restaurants, fast-food, bars... Some establishments offer free access, and to connect, nothing could be easier for the user, but also for the attacker. These accesses are often poorly protected, or not protected at all, which leaves the field open to easily accessing data on the network.

5) DOWNLOADING APPS “OUT OF THE BEATEN PATH”: DANGER

According to a study by Gartner, in 2013, a total of 102 billion applications will have been downloaded versus 64 billion in 2012. And this figure is likely to grow in the coming years, to reach nearly 269 billion downloads in 2017. Moreover, analysts note that nearly 91% of downloads are free apps.

With this number of downloads continually increasing, it is important to remember to read all information about an app. Most users are content with ratings and reviews, without paying attention to the app’s functionalities, whether the app can access contacts, phone data, and location. If in doubt, it is advised not to download the app.

6) DOWNLOADING FROM REGULATED PORTALS: OK

To avoid any bad surprises, it is preferable to rely on classic download portals, such as App Store, Google Play, or Windows Phone Store. Indeed, apps on these portals are checked before online publication to ensure maximum security for users.

7) RECEIVING UNKNOWN MMS, SMS OR CALL... IGNORE!

The MMS and SMS market is increasingly important, especially thanks to unlimited offers from different operators. These two communication means allow quick and instant exchange. They are also increasingly used by companies for news, promotions... After email addresses, it is the turn of mobile numbers to be used as a database.

Sometimes you may receive unknown recipient MMS or SMS. In this case, it is recommended not to open them and to delete them directly. Indeed, these could be an attempt to “intrude” into the mobile or to encourage the owner to call a premium-rate number. Regarding incoming calls, for example from 08 numbers, it is best not to answer, as they may be premium-rate numbers or an intrusion attempt.

8) COMMUNICATIONS FROM ABROAD: FRACTIONATE INFO

While traveling abroad, whether for professional or private reasons, it is advisable to be careful with your phone communications, the discourse you hold, and the information transmitted, especially in countries with limited democracy. For professionals, for example, it is advised to move sensitive communications discreetly, sending information in several parts and by different means (by email, by SMS, by call). This is to prevent any malicious person from accessing potentially confidential data.

9) STATIC ON THE LINE: NETWORK PROBLEM OR PHONE UNDER SURVEILLANCE?

During travel abroad, particularly in certain countries, it may happen that the communication is of poor quality. Two possibilities: either the network is of poor quality (in 98% of cases), or the line has been tapped... In both situations, especially for a professional, it is best not to linger and to limit yourself to unimportant information.

10) SOLUTIONS IN CASE OF LOSS OR THEFT...

The fundamental advice to remember to protect your mobile from any intrusion is that a smartphone is personal property. In short, it is strongly recommended to always keep your mobile close to you or on you, and to avoid leaving it unattended. In case of loss, apps or features allow you to erase all data remotely and render the smartphone inoperable. Others allow you to geolocate the phone, and some victims pretend to be Sherlock Holmes and trace the thief... Attention, let the authorities handle it

Excerpt from a press article

Thank you all.