Protect Your Tech: Download Android Apps Safely
For more, check out http://www.enjoysaferinternet.com/
The convenience of an open applications market for your android device has led to a heightened threat of security. Good judgment and attention to detail are a few tips for good practice to ensure trusted apps that keep you protected.
Hi, I'm Scott Steinberg and I'm going to walk you through how to make sure you download a safe app—instead of malicious software—onto your Android smartphone or tablet. Android's huge market share and open marketplace make it a prime target for cybercrime, so it's possible you'll encounter dangerous programs if you aren't careful. I'll cover three topics that will help you stay safer on your Android device. First, the dangers lurking in Android apps. Second, how to spot a scam. And third, some measures to ensure you download a clean app. With so many great apps to choose from, you'll want to make sure you've done your due diligence.
Many Android smartphone and tablet users run into problems when downloading apps. It's tempting to take advantage of the freedom Android offers to download apps from many sources, but many sites are selling—or giving away—malicious software that will infect your device and potentially steal your identity.
A simple search online can tell you issues that plague Android OS. If you buy apps from Google Play—the official Android app store—and other reputable sites like Amazon's App Store, you'll be safer, because they put their apps through a screening process. But even then, there's no guarantee of getting a clean file. Exercise good judgment and pay attention to the details when downloading apps.
By learning what to look out for, you're less likely to get scammed. Spotting bad apps on Android is not always easy, as cybercriminals are constantly finding new tricks to fool smartphone and tablet users into downloading malware. Here are some useful tips on identifying suspect apps. Avoid apps that come out before their scheduled release day. This tactic is commonly used by cybercriminals for eagerly awaited apps, and in many cases used to deliver useless apps filled with malicious code.
Don't be duped by bargain sites offering popular paid apps for free. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Some websites pose as databases for reviews, but their content is just copied and pasted from Google Play, and their apps are fraudulent. Also be careful of in-app purchases. Some clean apps will lead you to unsafe sites to download upgrades or add-ons, leaving you infected with malicious programs. Be certain where you are buying from, and consider using Android antivirus protection with app scanning technology such as ESET Mobile Security for Android.
Here are a few additional tips to help you avoid downloading bad apps. Update your operating system if it's available for your device. If updates are not available for your smartphone or tablet, it's even more important to have software protection. Also, read the app permissions screen before you download. Malicious programs will often request access to your personal information, such as text messages and contacts.
To help verify an app, consider a mobile antivirus solution that provides an overview of your installed apps and their permissions such as ESET Mobile Security for Android. And don't assume a five-star rating means an app is okay. Some dirty apps force users to leave a high score before downloading, so double-check it's legitimate by reading through the reviews. Mobile antivirus software like ESET Mobile Security for Android, delivers app scanning technology that does the work for you.
Despite the number of threats, it is possible to avoid bad Android apps. I've walked you through the dangers, the warning signs, and the steps to making a good downloading decision. By knowing the threats, you can keep your Android device secure and your personal information private. This has been Scott Steinberg with ESET. Good luck!
Watch video Protect Your Tech: Download Android Apps Safely online without registration, duration hours minute second in high quality. This video was added by user ESET North America 18 February 2014, don't forget to share it with your friends and acquaintances, it has been viewed on our site 5,34 once and liked it 2 people.