Nowadays we are constantly connected to the internet and various data packets are exchanged between our devices and the global network. So, there is a high potential to receive malicious software. In order to be safe, we must know how to protect our Android devices from malware.
Since the malware is pervasive and inconspicuous it has many windows to enter our mobile phones. This is why our smartphones and tablets are at risk of potential infection. However, there are certain ways to be on the safe side.
How to Protect Our Android Devices from Malware
Following the proper set of standard practices, Android users can stay safe and keep their devices secure. Here I have brought you the top tips to follow. So, let’s talk about them in the following sections.
Keep Your Phone Up to Date
With the evolving landscape of software, there are many forms of harmful software entering the market. To cope with them, there are various actions undertaken by the developers of Operating systems. This is why Android keeps on rolling out various updates for their devices.
Nowadays, the updates are automatically installed on the latest devices. If you are using an old version or the updates are turned off, you must make sure the device is updated. For this simply enter the settings, and go to System Updates. Here check for updates if there are any.
Use a Reliable Browsing App
Next to the installation of applications the most common form of intrusion on a device is from a web browser. Thus, it is imperative to make sure you are having a safe browsing experience. Coupled with some safe search habits, this could make sure you are not exposed.
In the market, there are some great options available that focus on greater privacy and protection for the users. Some of these names include FireFox, Onion, and Brave Browser. Do check them out and make them your default link openers.
Keep No Browser Cookies
Cookies are the trackers of your online activities. Any time you visit a website it plants some cookies on your browser. Essentially they are not placed here with malintent but those who have evil minds can take benefit from these.
This is why it is the best practice to keep your browsing history clean with all the cookies removed. Once you do that, there is no more threat from this section. Simply go to your browser settings and find the Privacy settings and there you will find the option to remove cookies in addition to other options.
Use official Sources for Apps
We cannot trust unknown and third-party app stores to get our application on Android devices. This is why the most preferred platform for any Android user should be the Google Play Store or the official store their device brand has.
The applications here are checked for any irregularities. This is why, compared to other options, they are safe and require less vigilance from the user side. But if you are getting an application from any unofficial or third source, there is no guarantee of getting safe software. Nonetheless, with this guide on picking out fake apps, you will be better equipped to red-flag any potential threats.
Don’t be Impulsive with Random Links
Every now and then we receive links in our WhatsApp, SMS, and on social media platforms. Most of these links are spam links which might take you to a potential threat. This means you cannot trust the source where the link is taking you to.
The best option for the users here is to make sure whatever they are clicking on is an official website link and not a random legal-looking malicious website. In such situations, it is better to not open them unless they are sent to you by someone who you can trust and who understands these phishing concepts clearly.
Conclusion
This is all about how to protect our Android devices from malware. However, this is not enough some other steps include avoiding cracked applications as much as possible and using multiple accounts on your device, and not using a single password for all our apps and accounts. Add yours in the comments below.