Android user needs to be vigilant at all times when using the internet. The internet is laden with Trojan and viruses that can cause serious harm to the phone and personal data of the user. Sensitive data is exposed to internet users through downloadable Apps and become prone to hackers and malware that can conduct identity theft and con. The internet, therefore, needs to be navigated with care while observing security procedures on the smart devices used.
Max Bell, the Customer Success Manager of Semalt, provides simple tips on how to remain safe from viruses and malware when using the internet on your smart device.
Beware on what to click
Pop-up ads on websites are avenues used by hackers to link malware and Trojans to internet users. Clicking on fishy advertisements popping up on the visited web pages downloads malicious software that contains viruses or monitor and shares the activities of the Android phone with hackers. Trojan and viruses attached to pop-up ads come in attractive forms such as an unsolicited antivirus software. Always be on the lookout.
Don’t do anything illegal
It is evident that illegal things on the internet can be hazardous. Websites offering sharing files such as video games, torrent movies, music, and software can facilitate the exchange of malware and viruses to downloaders. It is important to download or upload files from trusted sites to avoid Trojan and malicious ware. Viruses crawling in the shared files available in illegal file sharing websites can steal and share personal information using the attached malware in downloads besides corrupting the user’s filing system.
Always keep the browser up-to-date
The use of an outdated browser on the phone exposes the user attacks from viruses and malware. A browser ability to fight Trojan and malware lowers with its age. An Android device can avoid attacks from viruses when using advanced such as Chrome, Firefox and Opera compared to Safari, Internet Explorer and Netscape. Choose wisely the default browser on the device to ensure security from malware and viruses.
Check the required permissions
Before the installation of downloaded applications, the apps ask for permission depending on what they need to do on the Android device. While some apps will request access to contacts, the internet or the camera, it is important to understand the necessity of the permission required by a particular application. The ability of an application can expose the device various threats online including viruses and malware depending on the requested permissions displayed during installation.
Use applications from reputed App stores
One step to safety from viruses and malware on the smart gadgets running Android platforms is the downloading and use of requests from recommendable App stores. App stores such as the Android Google Play and the reputed Amazon Appstore provide in-depth security checks for all applications uploaded in their stores. Downloading applications from the random websites that sometimes offer sold applications for free exposes the Android device to numerous harms.
Security applications such as antivirus software can facilitate scanning of downloaded apps for viruses and malware on android gadgets when the applications come from untrusted sources.
