Are Mobile Apps Really Protecting Your Data?

Apps are super convenient because they can be installed on mobile devices, and most of us have our mobile phones on or near us throughout the day. They provide an easier path to access websites or software functions that we would ordinarily have to access through a website or via desktop software.

However, sometimes, we take their security levels for granted. After all, if they’re available on the Play Store or App Store, they can’t really be harmful, can they? And legitimate businesses wouldn’t push apps that have security flaws, would they?

The Rise Of The Apps

As the iPhone ad said: “There’s an app for that”. Whether you want to listen to music, stream TV or movies, trade cryptocurrency, or play roulette on mobile casino apps, you will be able to find something suitable. Any of these app types collect and store your personal data, and the likes of trading and casino apps may also store financial data like bank account or credit card information.

Finance and iGaming writer Aman Jain recommends using additional security features like two-factor authentication to ensure you are fully protected while using the software.

Are Apps Safe?

Apps are small pieces of software that are installed on mobile phones. There is some risk involved in downloading and installing apps, but no more than browsing the Internet and visiting websites. Following best practices can help minimize the risk faced by users.

Install Virus Protection

Most people understand the importance of having antivirus or antimalware software installed on computers, laptops, and other main devices. But, surprisingly few people have the same kind of protection installed on their mobile phones. iPhones are generally more resistant to viruses and malware, but they are still at risk, and there is antivirus software for Android and Apple devices. Research it, download it, install it, update it, and use it.

Download Via App Stores

When looking for apps, look for official versions that can be found on the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store. Both platforms have some level of security and they help ensure users are protected. This security isn’t infallible, however, and users are still advised to take further action to help ensure they remain safe and their data is secure.

Do Your Research

This is especially true if you are downloading apps directly from websites rather than through official app stores, but it is true in all cases. Do extensive research for any app you are considering installing. Research the app itself, as well as the company offering the app, and its author. Don’t rely on testimonials provided by the company itself. Instead, look for reviews from real people as well as those from online reviewers. Check the security credentials and if something looks sketchy, walk away. There is always another option.

Check App Permissions

Apps typically require some permissions to be able to work effectively. They might need access to your calls, messages, camera, or files. However, you shouldn’t just grant full access to all elements of your mobile phone, to all apps you install. Consider what the app does and what it needs access to and if any permissions seem unnecessary or questionable, look for an alternative app.

Download And Install Updates

Intentional attacks are only part of the potential security risk when using apps. Some apps may unintentionally leave your phone vulnerable to external attacks because of poor permissions or insecure coding. When vulnerabilities are detected, app creators will create fixes and patches and then provide these to app users. Download and install updates to ensure your phone is fully protected at all times.

App Risks

Although many people install and use apps regularly without facing any negative impact, not all apps are secure. In particular, they can contain malware, intentionally added by the app creator or added by a third party without the creator’s knowledge. And, even if an app doesn’t directly contain malware, it may have security vulnerabilities that leave your phone open to attack from external parties.

Malware

Malware is software that has been created with malicious intent: primarily with the aim of stealing personal information from the user. Common types of malware users might encounter include:

• Ransomware – Ransomware encrypts files and personal data, preventing the user from being able to access their own files. They are instructed to pay money to regain access. In a lot of cases, paying the ransom does not lead to regaining access.
• Spyware – Spyware is installed on a mobile phone and then used to monitor and track the phone user’s data and actions. It can record and transmit usernames, passwords, and other sensitive information.
• Trojan Horses – A trojan horse is a style of malware that disguises itself as a normal program, hiding its nefarious intent. That intent may be to gather information or data.
• Adware – Adware is a type of virus that, once installed, will serve pop-ups and other types of ads on the mobile phone. The adware can be very difficult to uninstall or remove from the phone.
• Worms – Worms infiltrate devices and are then sent from that device to other devices, typically by sending messages or emails that appear to have come from the phone’s owner. The messages contain links to malware and may also propagate the worm itself. Some worms may lay dormant for months or even years before being called on by hackers.
• Rootkits – Rootkits are insidious pieces of software that give the author admin-level access to the phone they are installed on. This can effectively give the hacker full control over the user’s phone.

Conclusion

Apps are typically no less safe than visiting websites, but users do need to take care when downloading and using new apps. Where it isn’t possible to install apps from official app platforms, be even more diligent about your research and, once you’ve installed any apps, allow them to download the latest updates because these can help protect against known threats or patch known vulnerabilities.