Security Checks before Downloading an App

Security Checks in Mobile App

It is vital to know how to determine whether a mobile app is safe or not. Mobile phones carry a lot of detailed personal information which you do not want to jeopardize by downloading apps which contain viruses. Apps contain malware, a type of software that can inflict severe damage on your smartphone, compromise safety and waste resources.

The most reputable app stores cannot assure you that every app is safe since there are some that still manage to slip by security checks. Apps that contain harmful malware are pathways for malicious activity. These apps tap into your phones sensitive data making it prone to manipulation by strangers. In some instances, it might be used to facilitate fatal attacks by terrorists.

Here, you will learn the characteristics of a trustworthy app so that you develop a keen eye before downloading one.

Source

The safest place to get apps is from reputable sources as apps flood the market. Do not download apps carelessly; take time to know the source? There are first-party apps developed by the seller of your phone and third-party apps developed by other people apart from phone manufacturers.

A credible app source has the following features: very well developed terms of service, troubleshooting FAQ and explicit contact details, stringent criteria for app makers and a reputation for dropping developers with low content. Avoid downloading apps outside the apps store since they do not have security covering that is offered by app stores.

Find Out About the Developer and Seller

It is prudent to carry background checks of the developer or seller before installing an app. Many app stores provide a link to the vendor’s page. On the Google Play Store, for instance, the link is placed on the bottom of the app’s page. Finding reputable developers in search engines is easy.

Every app vendor has a professional website, a privacy policy, an explanation on how they use the information they collect from the public and a clear outline of how much information they avail to advertisers. They should have clear security policies and contact details.

Inspect Permissions

Permissions give the app seller access to several parts of your phone. An app should not have too much permission but only those that are relevant to its function. Have a clear understanding of permissions to recognize when vendors are crossing the boundary and avoid their apps. Too many and unnecessary permissions are a security threat, so think carefully before downloading the app. Examples of permissions include: complete network access, running a startup, control vibration, stop tablet from sleeping, location, take videos and pictures, delete or modify SD card content and read text messages. Most importantly think critically and analytically before making a decision.

Know the Numbers and Read Reviews

Check the number of times the app is downloaded and its ratings. Numerous downloads and ratings are an indication of the apps credibility. This does not mean you should not download apps with lower ratings provided you have inspected its permissions. Reviews are an excellent way to gauge how users feel about the app and they should be real.

Information is power; garner a lot of it before you venture into the app marketplace to be on the safe side. Make sure you get rid of the apps that you do not use any more. It helps eliminate their access to your data and clears your storage space.

Download the latest apps if you need to, but do not just get anything that looks appealing. Take time to ensure they are trustworthy to avoid downloading malwares.     

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