60% of the population used smartphones for shopping and getting information online in recent decades, smartphones are now an integral part of business branding and identity. Statistics show that nearly 70 percent of people who use mobile devices, are currently using an Android mobile device.
This technology has brought about many challenges including compromising privacy and security as well as security threats. Your mobile phone may hold a lot of sensitive data. Here is how you can secure it.
Ensure Your App Permissions Are Secure
The Android operating system provides an integrated security management system to prevent unauthorised applications to access your personal information and data. This is available for Android 6 and later by selecting Settings > Apps & Notifications > Advanced > Permission Managers.
Although useful, it seems quite simple and hidden from the user. If it is important to see app permissions, install Permission Dashboard. It’s free and displays if permission is granted to any app. This includes: accessing call logs, listening to audio conversations, reading contacts, using a camera, and accessing the precise location.
Check What’s Running In The Background
Hidden apps running in the background on an android phone are generally causing concerns due to the high usage of battery. Joke malware is an extremely dangerous threat to your device’s data and can be threatening your privacy. Many task management apps will let you see or remove process information that is hidden by your security applications but the best one is built on Android.
To use the feature, the developer option has to be enabled. Unapproved processes restart automatically. In such an occurrence, there is a choice whether to continue to install or uninstall an app.
Scan Android Apps for Security Flaws
Unmodified default apps may result in leaking data or theft. One method of finding flaws is through Jumbo. Also available for iOS, the app checks out popular applications and services like Twitter, Google.com, and Facebook.
During installation, Jumbo asks for your email address to identify if there has been a breach of your data. It will inform you of the affected sites and allow you to quickly change their password. It will also recommend how to make your accounts and identity safer.
Common Android Security Threats
Virus attacks targeting mobile phones are prevalent across mobile OS. Is it true for smartphones? There is something very serious about red flags. Firstly, consider what malware is: malicious software aimed at damaging the device. Cybercriminals have used malware to access your data and sometimes to steal or sell your personal information. Malware consists of viruses, computer viruses, Trojan worms, and ransomware.
Use biometric authentication tools
Most smartphone models offer different methods of verification including face and fingerprint authentication. This makes unauthorised users unable to use a mobile phone without permission or authorisation.
The adoption of biometric identifiers is on the increase. It’s easier to carry and safer than carrying an identification key. But unlike pin codes and passwords, nobody can access and use biometric authentication information, including the facial features of your device.
This feature has been improved in some ways. Hopefully, it can get better with the next Android version.
Use a VPN
Encrypting the Internet connection may be the most effective way of protecting the Android system against hacking. VPNs add a layer of protection to your internet connection and this is the only way to make this happen on your smartphone.
It’s largely dependent on smartphones to stay connected to the world, through emails or social media. You now know how secure it is to use a VPN from reputable sources on mobile devices.
Use phone locks
Using a phone lock or a security key helps keep the device safe. Many people may think about that simple tip, but technically phones that have no lock are likely to lose their data which can cause devastating damage to the device. Locking screens can be helpful for a wide range of applications.
If someone snatches your phone using your credit or debit information, they can easily steal it. If someone breaks into your phone lock then you can restrict the use of any credit or bank credit card in it. How can we secure the phone with a password? That’s my question! Well, that old way was better.
Download apps only from the Google Play Store
Avoid downloading an android app from third-party websites as these are likely to introduce viruses to your smartphone. A hacking attack can easily access a smartphone’s hardware. A second important thing is to avoid using unauthentic applications.
Despite being available on Google’s App Store, don’t utilise them unless you are familiar with developers. While the app is usually found on the app store, the algorithm detects and removes it quickly. Give tech companies a few days to eliminate all shady applications. You can use the app with confidence and security.
Backups are essential
It is essential to backup all smartphones and tablets work effectively and securely. Backups are stored in Google Drive, oneDrive, smart cards, or external disks. Everyone must keep their data safe, even when thieves steal or you lose your phone. A second thing you can do is wipe the private information remotely from the device. Many anti-virus programs offer this option.
Do not use WiFi and Bluetooth connections at an unknown place
It is easy for hackers to hack into Android phones with WiFi. Similar happens with a Bluetooth connection. So avoid connecting to public WIFI and Bluetooth devices of unverified origin.
Your android phone security for your cell phone is important. Use a password manager instead of storing passwords in your google chrome. You can also rely on google play protect for android app protection from mobile malware. To keep your android phone safe, avoid free apps and also rely on an antivirus app.
How cyber-secure is your business? Find out with our free cybersecurity health check.
It’s a 30-minute Zoom call that walks through a checklist to assess your current cybersecurity levels and provide a short report with some advice and recommendations.
