Android has several in-built security features within the system kernel that ensure device safety. However, Android also happens to be the mobile platform that faces the most malware attacks and security risks. This is due to the widespread usage of the Android platform and also the ease with which applications and programs can be developed for the system.
Android prides itself on being an open-source platform; hence, there are bound to be malicious parties that misuse this privilege from time to time. Moreover, with millions of Android devices actively in use across the world, it is absolutely necessary to be aware of the security risks that Android devices contain.
With that in mind, here are some common mobile security precautions that every Android owner should remember to follow so as to stay safe against malware and other threats.
Disable app installation from Unknown Sources
It is well known that Android has thousands of compatible apps over Google Play. However, there are several third-party sources for downloading apps as well. These sources can be easily accessed over the web and they usually contain many apps that Google Play deems inappropriate or unsafe. Android devices by default, disallow the installation of apps from Unknown Sources. However, there are many people who do download apps from such sources. Many times, the major source of Android malware are apps from such third-party sources.
TIP – DO NOT DOWNLOAD ANDROID APPS FROM THIRD-PARTY SOURCES
Upgrade to the latest Android version possible
The problem of fragmentation is one that usually troubles Android as a platform. This issue arises because there are so many Android handsets being used in the world at any given moment, and most of these devices run different versions of Android due to them possessing different hardware specs. Google also releases Android versions at a furious pace, so each version gets outdated pretty soon. What this leads to is severe device and version fragmentation, which in turn leads to security threats. While it may not be possible to upgrade your device to the very latest Android version as it depends on the hardware of the device and also the availability of the upgrade in the first place, you should check to see if you are running the latest version possible for your specific Android device.
TIP – CHECK YOUR DEVICE MANUFACTURER’S WEBSITE TO SEE IF ANY UPDATES ARE AVAILABLE FOR YOUR DEVICE
Don’t connect to unsecured Wi-Fi networks
Yes we all love free Wi-Fi at coffee shops and airports. But do you know who else does too? Hackers and malware creators and other malicious parties. What better way to infiltrate an Android device than over a free Wi-Fi connection? This Android mobile security tip goes without saying but sadly, there are many people who refuse to follow this rule. Free and public Wi-Fi allows a hacker to get access to your device and thus gives him access to your phone contacts list, your SMSs, your emails, your passwords, your photos and your history of locations. Is the leakage of all this data worth some free minutes of free Internet usage? Do yourself a favor and get a data plan to ensure complete Android safety.
TIP – NEVER CONNECT TO AN UNSECURED PUBLIC WI-FI NETWORK WHICH DOES NOT ASK FOR A PASSWORD.
Make use of screen lock passwords and device encryption
With mobile phones, one real threat is getting your phone in the wrong hands. In such a case, it is important that your Android device stays as protected as possible. In-built Android security features allow you to adjust settings so that the device cannot be unlocked without a PIN or a password. Moreover, you can also choose to encrypt the device upon startup. This means that if the phone is switched OFF, it requires a password to operate when it is switched back ON. All these features are there for your safety and security, so they should be utilized.
TIP – PICK A TOUGH TO GUESS PASSWORD FOR YOUR LOCK SCREEN AND ALSO FOR THE START UP SCREEN
Install an effective antivirus and security suite
Needless to say, the best solution for all Android security needs is an effective antivirus solution. Many people feel that such solutions are not really necessary, but the truth is that they are. With advanced features such as virus protection, device scanning, call blocking, web security, anti-theft measures, mobile tracker and more on offer, it would be unwise to not invest in a good security solution like Quick Heal Total Security for Android.
TIP – INSTALL THE BEST MOBILE SECURITY PACKAGE AVAILABLE TO STAY SECURE AGAINST MALWARE AND TO ALSO ENHANCE DEVICE PERFORMANCE.
About the Author: Rajib Singha is a web enthusiast and blogger, and has been writing about the computer security industry for the last two years. With a keen interest in the world of technology, he has written several articles and blog posts related to the industry.
No comments:
Post a Comment