Back to Top

App reviews, Guides and Tutorials

mobile securityBest mobile security tips for Android users

These are the most effective security tips you should implement this year. They will prevent you from becoming a victim of mobile malware attacks, while improving the performance of your smartphone.

1. Enable the passcode/fingerprint-based lock screen.

Keeping your smartphone secure will always be the best way to prevent major security issues, especially when you consider what tools modern hackers can get hold of. Using a complex passcode in conjunction with the fingerprint unlocking method is a great way to prevent anyone from accessing your device without having your permission. Additionally, smartphones that aren't protected using a password can be hacked much easier by people who try to get access to their content remotely.

2. Keep your device clean.

Make sure you go through all the apps that are installed on your device regularly, and then delete the ones that you no longer use. If you are like me, you may have installed a few apps because a friend told you they were cool, but maybe you've never used them. Some apps can also have hidden functionality that can leak information if the wrong person were to get hold of the phone, so removing the apps you don't use can help keep your private data secure.

3. Install a mobile security app.

That's the next thing you should do. These apps are generally easy to install and use, because most of them run fine without requiring their users' input. Additionally, some antivirus solutions may give you the option to lock individual apps that shouldn't run in the background, and can even block third-party services from accessing your device if they have the wrong permissions.

4. Keep your device up to date.

As a smartphone owner, you probably know the importance of keeping your device up to date. Android users will often get several years of free O.S. updates, and most of these updates include security patches too. However, some mobile apps won't receive all the required updates, so you need to be proactive if you want to keep your device secure. Old applications that aren't updated anymore can pose enormous security risks; it is best to uninstall them, and then find their up-to-date equivalents.

5. Browse the web safely.

Stay away from shady sites, which promise free stuff in exchange for app or plug-in installs, and so on. Always look at the website's SSL certificate to see if it is valid. You should be aware that hackers can install SSL certificates on their evil sites as well, so try to avoid visiting unknown Internet services and websites whenever it is possible.

6. Use two-factor authentication.

Never underestimate the power of technology when it comes to keeping your data safe! Two-factor authentication systems can provide a significant security boost. This means you will still need a password to access your account, but that password is only valid if you also know the unique code that's been generated by a mobile device. For example, if you use Google's Authenticator app, you can generate a fresh code every 30 seconds, which can then be used to log into various social media platforms, online services, etc.

7. Don't reuse passwords.

Your personal information will be safer if you use complex passwords. The more complex the password is, the lower the chance for hackers to guess it. Also, it is essential to use a unique password for each account. It's worth trying different options; use a password manager to help you with this process, for example. All passwords should be changed regularly; some of them may be stored on your device in unencrypted form, because their developers have used poor coding practices.