How to Protect Your Phone from Malicious Apps

We’re all aware of the need to not download anything from suspicious sites or links; However, sometimes, even trusted app stores could be the home to unsafe downloads. In 2021 alone, over 300,000 people download apps through Google Play Store. Google Play Store that got past security protections of the store to install malware.

And third-party app stores? Avoid them completely.

Lucky for you, Apple users, because the Apple App Store has been named one of the safest sites to download applications.

This is great news for Apple lovers. But for us who don’t have access to this feature of the Apple App Store, how do you identify a bad application before you download it? We’ve provided you with the information you need. Here are some tips for identifying and safeguarding your device from applications that could have something nasty hidden.

Download only authentic applications

The first thing to remember: Third-party app sites pose a major security danger.

We’ve mentioned that Apple’s App Store is one of the safest locations to download applications. 5 Apple users will not see an unverified or another security warning when they download apps, but they are tested before they ever hit the App Store.

However, that isn’t to say that Apple users shouldn’t ignore these suggestions and download anything they like. If you’re loading the iPhone or iPad with fun and games or apps that your favorite friend suggested, adhere to Apple’s official app store and be attentive to tips two through six.

Okay, after we’ve gone over Apple people, we can talk about Google Play Store. Google Play Store.

If you download an application via Google Play Store, look for the “Verified by Play Protect” message right below the app’s name. It will appear only when you click “Install,” so if you don’t get it after you click that button, we suggest hitting “Cancel.”

Seek out clues in the app’s description and contact information

Before downloading and installing, look over the app’s description and see the contact details provided.

If the description for the app is not written well or is completely missing and the description is not clear, you’re concerned. The same thing goes if the app’s contact info is an unofficial-looking email like “[email protected]” And goofy emails are especially suspicious if an app claims to be published by a well-known organization like the WHO or the Mayo Clinic.

Beware of unexpected pop-ups

A few hidden ads in apps have been known to block access to your phone. Adware in over 200 apps in Google Play Store wouldn’t allow users to answer calls or access other applications. 1 Talk about an annoying.

If your phone is constantly bombarded with pop-ups, even ones that aren’t advertisements but appear to be reminders or warnings from the system–you could be suffering from adware. This means you should look for and remove any suspicious applications.

Be aware of unusual usage of data

Another way to detect an adware issue is to examine your monthly data usage. If your usage increases abruptly, but you’re using your phone in the same method you’ve always used, then you may be infected with unwanted ads.

How can your data use increase if you are running adware? This type of malware makes unintentional clicks in the background without your knowledge.

If you notice a rise in the amount of data you use, and you can pinpoint the issue with the application, uninstall it immediately.

Utilize mobile security software

Security software should be installed on your PC. Also, you should have security software installed on your smartphone as well.

Mobile security software could be an initial line of defense should you encounter malware. It will notify you of suspicious downloads and apps before you click and makes it easy to recognize fraudulent apps. Many mobile security apps can help you clean and keep your device free of any unpleasant surprises, too.

Which security apps are the best? Here are some of our favorite security apps:

1. Bitdefender Mobile Security
2. Norton Mobile Security
3. AVG AntiVirus
4. McAfee Mobile Security
5. Avast Mobile Security

Check that your Google Play Protect is turned on

If you have an Android device, make sure whether Google Play Protect is currently activated. Play Protect scans applications from the Play Store before downloading. They are also able to scan your phone for dangerous apps.

Check these instructions to ensure that your Play Protect is turned activated:

1. Start Google Play Store. Google Play Store app.
2. Go to the menu and choose Play Protect.
3. Click on the Settings cogwheel icon and ensure that “Scan apps with Play Protect” is selected.

Remove bad apps

If you discover an undesirable or suspicious program, it is best to perform something before taking it off your device.

For Android users:

You can browse through all of your apps using Settings – Apps on Android phones. You must ensure that you’ve got every app visible using “All” in the drop-down menu on the top, then begin scanning through the list.

1. Choose the program you wish to remove.
2. Select “Clear cache.” (Android users might need to select “Storage” first.)
3. Next, select “Clear data.”
4. Select “Uninstall.”

For iOS users:

1. Start by opening your Home screen, Pressing and holding the app’s icon. The apps will start to shake.
2. Click on the “X” icon on the application you wish to remove and then click “Delete.”
3. Choose “Done” or press the home button after deinstalling applications.