Secure your devices

Use anti-virus software

Viruses, worms, Trojan horses and other forms of malware (i.e., malicious software) can infect your devices and cause your devices to slow down or malfunction. Cybercriminals can also deploy malware to corrupt files, steal data, and even gain access to your social media and bank accounts.

We have seen many cases where victims lost large amounts of money due to unauthorised bank account withdrawals on mobile devices infected with malware. 
Anti-virus apps which can detect malware and malicious phishing links are also key to safeguarding your devices and accounts. 

Not sure which security app to download? The Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) has put together a list of recommended apps which users can download to suit their needs and budget. The apps come in free and paid versions, offering a range of features such as malicious URL blocking and malware scanning.

But remember – there is no 100% protection and it is important to remain vigilant and adopt good cyber hygiene habits to protect your devices.

Always download from official App Stores

Do not download apps from unknown or unofficial sources. Only use official app stores such as Google Play Store (Android) or Apple App Store (iOS), as these platforms have measures in place to detect and remove malicious apps.

• Keep your apps updated
  For apps that do not have an automatic update function, do update your apps promptly when you receive a notification to do so. This will ensure that you will have the most up-to-date protection against cyber threats.

• Download from trusted developers only 
  Check the developer’s reputation, number of downloads and app reviews before downloading their apps. Stick to well-known developers where possible.

• Avoid suspicious links and unknown sources
  Never download files or applications from unknown sources, and never click on pop-up advertisements, suspicious links, or open files or email attachments from unknown senders. Otherwise, you may unknowingly download malware into your computers or mobile devices.

For Android users

• CSA and Google have introduced an enhanced security feature under Google Play Protect. This feature blocks potentially malicious and high-risk apps that are installed not from Google Play but from web browsers, messaging apps or file managers.

Block Incoming Calls and SMS from International Numbers

Worried about international scam calls and SMSes? Telcos now offer the features to prevent calls and SMSes made via international numbers from reaching you. Activating the feature(s) can help to safeguard against phone/SMS scams. 

What does the features do?

• Block Incoming International Calls and SMSes
  Depending on the feature activated, calls and/or SMSes made from Singapore numbers while overseas (e.g. Singapore users roaming overseas and calling home) can still be received as normal.

• Flexible Activation Based on Your Needs 
  For example, a subscriber can opt in to enable both features as a default, but disable the services when travelling overseas and expecting calls from international numbers (e.g. from the hotel or on-ground transport).

The features are available free of charge. Contact your telco (Singtel, M1, StarHub and SIMBA) to find out how to activate the features. To learn more about IMDA’s other anti-scam measures, click here.