Proven Tips and Tricks for Robust Android Device Security 2020

Mobile device security threats are on the rise. Yes, hackers are coming after our smartphones and tablets. Their goal is to steal corrupt information stored or these devices. Others go after our identities and online accounts that we access using our mobile devices. Hackers who target mobile devices exploit vulnerabilities in hardware, software, and network connections to execute malicious activities on target mobile devices. 

Being the most popular mobile operating software in the world, the Android platform is an attractive target for hackers. Mobile security refers to a set of policies, controls, technologies, and best practices that help defend against a broad range of cybersecurity risks affecting mobile devices. In this article, we provide you with the Proven Tips and Tricks for Robust Android Device Security 2020.

Most Common Mobile Device Security Threats Affecting Android devices

Before we get into mobile security, let’s take a look at some of the most common mobile device security threats affecting Android devices. 

Lack of Security Updates

A recent survey shows that over one billion Android devices are vulnerable to cybersecurity breaches. The report based on Google’s data shows that about 40% of Android devices are not receiving vital security updates.

Malicious Apps

Some Android apps are developed with malicious intents. Once installed, these apps will be used to spy on you, steal data, and install malware on your device. Malicious apps mostly target Android devices and are commonly found in third-party vendors with more lax upload rules.

Lost/stolen Devices

All mobile devices can be lost or stolen if h andled carelessly. However, a hacker will have an easier time breaking into an Android device and stealing data (especially devices running on older Android versions) compared to iOS devices. 

There are other more general mobile device security risks. These include phishing, data leakage, and unsecured Wi-Fi. In a phishing attack, hackers use email or text messages to dupe people into revealing sensitive data such as passwords, account numbers, or Social Security numbers. Also, giving apps more permissions than they need often leads to unintentional data leakage. 

Android Device Security Tips 2020

Today, we carry vast amounts of sensitive data with us, everywhere we go, in our smartphones. For that reason, hackers are increasingly targeting mobile devices in an attempt to get hold of vital personal information. Below, we look at key mobile security tips to mitigate Android security threats as cybercriminals turn their attention to mobile devices. Keep reading.

Use a VPN

If you are a regular internet user, you are probably familiar with the risks of pubic Wi-Fi networks. For instance, hackers can use a public Wi-Fi network to steal sensitive user data or distribute malicious software among unsuspecting users on the network. Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) provides protection on unsecured Wi-Fi networks. Using a secure VPN encrypts your internet connection, making it difficult for a hacker to get hold of your data, and even if they did, they wouldn’t be able to make sense of it. 

Install Security Software

Install antivirus software in your mobile device to defend against different types of malware. Using a reliable security software will protect your device against viruses, trojans, rootkits, spyware, adware, ransomware, and other malicious software. An antivirus program can also protect you against phishing attacks. Set your antivirus program to update automatically so that it can protect your device against the newest threats. 

Enable Data Encryption

Your data is most vulnerable when it’s being transferred over the internet. Encryption software scrambles your data into code unrecognizable to anyone who may try to intercept it as it travels between servers. Use encryption to protect sensitive information on your device from cybercriminals. Most Android devices have encryption enabled by default. If it’s not, take some time to set it up. 

Create a Passcode

It’s common for people to misplace and lose their phones; it might not even be a big deal for some people. However, it can be a big problem if a stolen or lost device land in the hands of a cybercriminal. Without a secure passcode, a hacker can easily steal the data stored on the device. Having a secure passcode ensures that your data is safe from the person who ends up with the device. 

Read App Permissions

As stated earlier in the article, giving apps too much permission can easily result in unintentional data leakage. When installing an app, read and understand app permissions before accepting them. Also, make sure you check privacy settings before you install an application on your Android device.                                       

Download Apps from the Official App Store

Download apps only from Google Play Store to protect your device from malicious apps and malware infection. Apps on Google Play have been vetted by the company and are likely to be safe. Third-party app vendors don’t have strict vetting policies, which makes it easy for hackers to sneak bad apps into their platforms. 

Attacks on Android devices are rising in number and also evolving in scope.  As an Android user, it’s important that you understand common mobile security threats and prepare for the next generation of attacks. It’s the best step you can take to safeguard against a wide range of mobile security threats targeting Android devices.