Tips for Preventing Malware on Android

Android offers a more open platform compared to Apple, but this openness also exposes it to potential malware risks. To address this, Google has introduced measures like Google Play Protect. However, by taking a few precautions, it is quite simple to ensure the security of your phone and keep it free from malware. This article on Cybersecurity Awareness Week is presented in collaboration with Incogni.

What Is Android Malware?

I'm sure you're familiar with the term "malware" (short for "malicious software"). While it's a common issue on Windows, it functions differently on Android. Unlike on Windows, malware on Android doesn't generate popups, slow down your browser, or install toolbars. Its behavior is unique to the Android platform.

Instead, it operates in a much subtler manner. Often, individuals may remain oblivious to the presence of this detrimental software on their Android devices due to its ability to stay concealed. A malicious application might pretend to be a legitimate one or go completely unnoticed. Despite this, it continues to function in the background, engaging in various dubious activities, such as stealing your private data and uploading it to unknown destinations.

For instance, the Skygofree malware in 2018 was particularly malicious, offering a range of harmful capabilities. It could execute 48 different commands, activate your phone's microphone, connect to compromised Wi-Fi networks, gather copious amounts of information, and more. This situation posed a serious threat.

But don't dump your phone and head for Apple just yet. It's pretty easy to avoid malware on Android, as long as you're even the slightest bit careful. Here's what you should do.

Stick With Official Apps, and Be Cautious when Sideloading

A distinguishing feature that separates Android from other mobile operating systems is its capability to sideload apps, which means installing apps that are not available in Google's official Play Store. Although most users may not require this feature, it can prove useful when an app is unavailable in their country or when the latest version of an app has not been released for their device yet.

Regrettably, this setting poses potential risks. Google is actively working to decrease the presence of harmful apps in the Play Store, but it has limited control over the apps you choose to manually install. If you opt for installing apps that haven't undergone thorough vetting, you significantly increase your susceptibility to malware. That's why the option to sideload is disabled by default.

When sideloading any app, it's crucial to pause and consider the source you're obtaining it from. Is it a reliable and legitimate source? For instance, if you're obtaining the app from a trusted platform like APK Mirror, where all files undergo verification and approval before being hosted, you are likely to be safe.

If, however, you are in the process of downloading an APK from an unfamiliar website, it is advisable to conduct some preliminary research. Is this website the official platform of the developer? Can the developer be considered a reputable and trustworthy entity? Has this software been validated by others? Furthermore, take a moment to inspect the website itself—how many advertisements are present? What is the quality of these ads? If the site seems to host a plethora of suspicious activities, it is highly recommended to steer clear of it.

Avoid Third-Party App Stores

Given the ability to sideload apps on Android, it follows that you can also sideload third-party app stores. While there may be a few exceptions, such as utilizing Amazon's Appstore for exclusive apps or deals and F-Droid for open-source apps, it is generally recommended to use the Google Play Store. Although it may not be flawless, it remains a much safer option compared to potentially unreliable third-party alternatives that may contain various forms of undesirable content. To illustrate the risks involved, consider a scenario where you install a questionable third-party app store. Enabling sideloading becomes necessary for the initial installation, subsequently granting access to additional app installations through this app store.

But what if this app store is also malicious? With its permission to install additional apps, it could potentially introduce more malware into the system. This method serves as a significant conduit for spreading malware.

For Crying Out Loud, Don't Install Pirated Apps

In addition to the previous point, it is important to emphasize that pirating apps should be strongly discouraged. This should be obvious, but to reiterate, downloading illegal copies of software can seriously compromise the security of your device. It is impossible to predict what kind of harmful elements may be bundled with pirated content, as it is often not what it appears to be.

Furthermore, it is crucial to acknowledge that pirating software from dedicated developers is both unethical and disrespectful. These individuals put in tireless efforts in creating valuable products and deserve to be compensated for their hard work. Therefore, it is imperative to refrain from engaging in such activities.

Make Sure You're Installing Official Apps, Even When Using Google Play

Despite the aforementioned points, Google Play has its flaws. A notable instance was the presence of a counterfeit Whatsapp listing on the Play Store, which managed to accumulate over one million downloads. This fraudulent listing was particularly alarming as even the developer's name bore a striking resemblance to the legitimate WhatsApp developer. Such occurrences are undeniably unsettling.

Again, to mitigate these types of issues, Google is currently implementing measures to address them. However, exercising caution and conducting thorough research can greatly minimize potential risks. Prior to installing a new application, it is advisable to remain vigilant of any suspicious indicators. Evaluate the app's permissions, carefully examine its description, and verify the credibility of the developer's account. If any aspect appears questionable, it is highly likely that there may indeed be an issue.

Always Install System Updates

Google issues monthly security patches for Android to enhance system protection against potential attacks, particularly when there is a known vulnerability that malicious apps attempt to exploit.

Not all manufacturers release updates promptly, but it is crucial to install each one they send. Although not all updates will introduce new features, the essential behind-the-scenes enhancements will safeguard you from potential attacks. Set aside 15 minutes of your day to complete this task.