Malicious apps are quite dangerous since they can easily spy on your data and access sensitive information. Cybercriminals look for every means to steal and breach data and developing malicious apps is one way they achieve these schemes. Kaspersky defines malicious apps as software that targets devices with malware to harm the user’s device and steal their data. It is worth of note that Android devices are more prone to malicious apps because Android users can download apps from various sources on the internet. Also, Google’s play store has less rigid security measures in place compared to Apple’s app store, which is why Android devices are easily susceptible to malicious apps. Android malware is malicious software that specifically targets Android devices. This creates an environment for cybercriminals to access your data and for cyberattacks to occur. According to Tom’s Guide, an online tech resource, one needs to be extremely careful when downloading new apps as it is sacrosanct to staying safe from malicious apps. Malicious apps manage to slip past Google’s security checks from time to time, which is why you should be careful when installing any new app on your device. It is important to pay attention to certain details before downloading any app from the play store. Details such as reviews (ensure they are external reviews as some could be manipulated), app ratings, unnecessary permissions. For instance, a video editing app seeking permission to access your contacts, ads, etc. can give you a clearer picture to know if the app is safe or not.
Tips to protect your Android device from malware/ malicious apps
Being conscious of your cybersecurity will help reduce your risk of falling victim to Android malware and in the real sense, cybercriminals. As outlined by Kaspersky, here are some tips to keep your device safe from malicious apps/malware. Previously, we discussed how phishing attacks are done through emails and texts. Cybercriminals send phishing emails and texts that trick you into clicking on a link or opening an attachment that could download malware. Be alert, and instead of clicking on a link in an email or text message, type the URL of a trusted site directly into your browser. In addition, avoid clicking on pop-ups or ads about your device’s performance. Scammers insert unwanted software into pop-up messages or ads that supposedly warn you about your device’s security or performance. In general, avoid clicking on these ads as much as possible.
Lock your phone
Setting up a lock screen will increase the security of your Android device. You can do this by setting a PIN, password, or pattern, which will prevent others from easily gaining physical access to your phone. This would not protect you from online threats, but it will keep your personal information safe if you lose or temporarily misplace your phone. To take your safety a step further, you can enable your phone’s encryption chip depending on the age of your device and its features. This feature is much more secure than the average lock screen feature and requires a two-step authentication password to use the device. This does not work for older operating systems because they often do not offer this feature. Disable
Bluetooth connectivity when not in use
Bluetooth allows your phone to connect wirelessly with other smart electronics and enables other people to connect to your device without your permission if it is left on and unattended. Attackers could be anywhere, so leaving your Bluetooth on puts you and your personal information at potential risk.
