These days, it’s sadly easy for malicious hackers to drain your bank account or steal your data.  Keeping up with your security practices on the front end makes it a lot less likely you’ll have to spend time, energy, and maybe even money after you run into trouble.  Here are some of the best – and simplest – ways to avoid such problems.

How to make your Android phone more secure

Also: Battery-draining Android apps with 20 million downloads pulled from the Google Play Store Why is this so important? Because you never know what kind of malicious code is to be found lurking within an app or an ad framework for an app. In a perfect world, the stock apps found on your device should be enough. When you do want to download a third-party app, make sure it’s from a trusted source like a large and reputable company.  That said, do your research before downloading. Also: Fake versions of real smartphone apps are being used to spread malware. Here’s how to stay safe Also, Android has a security feature that will send you a text if the internal security team notices that an app download looks harmful.  Note that a high number of downloads does not mean the app is trustworthy. Also: How to find and remove advanced spyware from your phone On that note, don’t reply to those messages – not even to stop texting you. Either block or ignore the number, but don’t engage. To check for an OS upgrade, go to Settings > System > System update. But this doesn’t just apply to the operating system. You also must regularly check for app updates.  This process can be done from the Google Play Store. Simply, tap your profile image > Manage apps & device > Update all. You may also be able to set your phone to keep apps updated automatically.

How can I ensure security on my mobile phone?

Aside from only downloading apps from trusted stores, you can do simple things every day that decrease the chances of outside security breaches. Here’s a short list of common practices that help improve your safety: Use a PIN or password pattern to unlock your phone, avoid putting in personal information on websites, back up your data, and make sure to log out of a site after you make a payment.  If you find yourself wanting to connect to a network without a secure password, don’t. Instead, connect to a data network or a trusted VPN service that can encrypt and randomize the data you send. Among others, do stay away from an app called SuperVPN Free VPN Client (and free VPNs in general).

Does Android have built-in security?

Android’s mobile safety page provides details on the operating system’s defense strategy. In a nutshell, yes, Android does take steps to alert consumers of security concerns and has internal security for user protection.

What apps should I avoid downloading on my Android device?  

Here are some of the most dangerous apps you should NOT install on your Android device: UC Browser, CLEANit, Dolphin Browser, and SuperVPN Free VPN Client. These are just a few of many harmful apps, so do some research before downloading.