Prevent Android Phishing Scams in 2023
2023 hacks are already getting their finishing touch so they are ready to wreak havoc in the new year. The Google mobile operating system, Android, has grown into a formidable platform that is being embraced by tech-savvy consumers, and even hackers from the dark web earning millions of dollars annually. Today, more than 175,000 apps are available in the Google Play Store to cater to the dependency of Android users looking to enhance their experience.
As such, there is a greater chance for hackers’ apps to proliferate the Google Play Store and even the Apple Store; posing a security risk for users. Hence, you must know how to check if the Android apps you have downloaded are safe from potentially dangerous malware.
What is malware?
Malware is malicious software that hackers code to steal private data. It is used to gain access to a person’s computer or mobile device without their permission. Malware is renowned to install software without the user’s knowledge. Some of the most dangerous malware apps discovered in 2022 have caused financial damage or even loss of personal data, which are often sold on dark web markets or used in phishing campaign scams.
There are many different kinds of malware. Targeted malware aims to steal sensitive data, like email addresses, passwords, or bank account numbers; while unwanted software, like spyware, is installed on a computer without the user’s knowledge. Malware can be categorized into a few categories; adware, spyware, ransomware, worms, and viruses.
How to check if your Android apps are safe?
So, how to check if your Android apps are safe from potentially dangerous malware? To begin, open the Google Play Store app on your Android phone or tablet. Next, scroll down and click on “MY APPS” option. This will open a list of all the apps you have installed on your device. If you are looking for a specific app, you can also type in the search bar or browse through the list of app titles. Once you find the app you want to check, long-press it and then press “Menu”. This will bring up a pop-up menu. From here, choose the option “About”. You should now see an Android app’s details screen.
The growth and popularity of mobile phones and tablets have led to an increase in the number of malicious apps online. With this, comes an increased risk of users falling prey to potentially dangerous malware. Thus, you must know how to check if your Android apps are safe from potentially dangerous malware.
Why Check If Your Apps Are Malware Free?
Google Play Store leads the way with up to 50 percent of Android apps on its platform infected with the malicious code of hackers. And even though the downloaded app is usually from a trusted source, it is still possible that it could be infected with malware. To ensure your absolute safety, you must use some basic security checks to ensure your apps are safe.
These cautionary measures must include ensuring that the app was not previously downloaded from other sources. Unknown developers are usually hacking groups, be wary of apps linked to them, and only download apps with a high rating, stay away from apps with lots of negative reviews.
Beyond the potential security risks posed by unverified apps, other issues arise when you download fake or unverified apps. You will encounter slow loading times, possible crashing issues, and an overall poor user experience. Hence, if you’re looking for ways to improve the experience you’re getting with your Android apps, then you should consider checking if your apps are safe from potentially dangerous malware.
It’s important to note that not all apps are unsafe. You can use check online for cyber security articles that will reveal harmful apps on the Google Play and Apple Store. This will help ensure you only install legitimate apps.
If you are suspicious about a downloaded app, then you must delete it immediately. You must also run an antivirus scan to remove all traces of the harmful app. You can also hire a phone technician to help remove malicious apps from your Android device.
