#TechBytes: 7 simple ways to protect Android phones from viruses
What's the story
These days, cases of fake, malware-infected apps showing up on Google Play Store have become more common than one could imagine.
These applications carry malicious code, which, if installed and run, could critically compromise your Android phone and the data on it.
However, worry not, some basic thumb rules can easily shield your phone against all such threats.
Let's take a look.
Attack
How viruses and malware can compromise your phone?
On most occasions, cybercriminals deliver spyware, malware, and all other sorts of viruses through utility apps or games.
They all look seemingly legit, but instead of performing the intended task, they carry out an attack - either themselves or by downloading an external malicious package.
Then, it establishes server connection, allowing the attackers to control the device remotely, steal its data or confidential information.
Information
And, smartphones can be impacted in many ways
Once a malware or virus compromises a phone, its performance could degrade, data could be stolen, or features like SMS could be used. Also, attackers can even carry out phishing attacks using malware, and mine the password of your banking accounts or social media services.
Step #1
First things first, install security patches when they show up
Protecting an Android device is more about doing simple things regularly, things like installing monthly security updates from your smartphone vendor.
People tend to ignore updates unless it's upgrading their Android version, but they don't realize that by missing the security patch, they may be skipping a potential fix for a major security vulnerability.
So, install security updates as and when they show up.
Step #2
Then, get a strong lockscreen PIN
Yes, attackers may compromise your phone with a malware-tied app, but such an app can also be delivered directly if your phone is lying around unlocked.
So, as the first line of defense, secure your phone with a strong PIN (it is more secure than fingerprint, pattern, or facial recognition) and don't leave the device unattended, especially when you've got several guests at home.
Step #3
Only install trusted, reliable apps from Play Store
Google Play Store is a safe place to get apps, but you still have to be cautious while installing apps, especially those that are fairly new on the platform.
For this, check rating/reviews of the service and even visit its developer's website before hitting the install button.
If it looks even slightly shady, don't proceed with the installation and look for an alternative.
Step #4
And, never go for third party apps!
As third-party apps do not come from the Google Play Store, it is highly recommended to stay away from them.
Such apps have not been verified by Google's moderation teams, which means they could be a potential source of malware/spyware.
So, keep the box for 'installing apps from unknown sources' unchecked and avoid such apps unless you're 100% sure that they are safe.
Step #5
Check permissions while installing apps
When you're downloading an app, Play Store shows a page of permissions, which highlights what parts of your phone the app in question is going to access.
Read this information carefully to find signs of a potential malware capable of mining your data or flooding your phone with pop-ups designed for phishing your confidential login credentials.
Information
Turn off connections when not required
It is rare, but technically, attackers could exploit vulnerabilities in wireless connections to carry out attacks (remember BlueBorne Bluetooth vulnerability from last year?). So, it is recommended to keep Wi-Fi and Bluetooth off unless you're not using them actively.
Step #6
Finally, get a reliable antivirus program
Once you're through with the basic step, you can get a reliable antivirus program for your smartphone.
There are many available on Google Play Store, including some really good options from Avira and Avast.
Just install program and give necessary permission so that it could start conducting routine scans and checks to flag and remove any malicious files or apps from your device.