Android has drawbacks, one of which is prone to cyber attacks. Almost all mobile phones on the market today must use the Android operating system. This system is popular and widely used because it has many advantages, such as easy to customize and modify, from ROM to overclock.
In addition, the Android OS can also be run on a large selection of hardware specifications. Starting from low end hardware specifications to high end hardware specifications. However, Android also has its drawbacks. One of them is vulnerable to cyber attacks. The virus or malware usually enters a smartphone through a medium in the form of an application. Even so, actually OS developers often provide updates to improve OS security. However, this is considered not enough to avoid viruses and malware. The following are effective ways or tips to protect software from malware attacks:
1. Do not install applications from sources that are not clear
The Play Store is a safe place to find and install Android apps, as Google always monitors the security of those apps to prevent malicious files. To be sure, you can also do it yourself by scanning through the Play Protect feature. The trick is to open the Play Store, select Menu and Play Protect. After that, you can find out the security of the applications installed on your device.
2. Avoid installing apps from third-party stores
One of the advantages of using Android is the support for installing apps from outside the Play Store. Please note that the security of third-party applications is questionable. The reason is, most of the application stores do not implement strict quality control, including security issues. Also, make sure that you don’t download and install third-party applications or take APK files from websites. Because, APK files whose source is not clear are very vulnerable to viruses.
3. Check the name of the application developer
There are many fake apps circulating on Google Play. For example, some time ago the famous Pokemon Go application was faked by irresponsible people. This could be one way the virus infects your smartphone. Therefore, you also need to pay attention and check the developer before downloading and installing it.
4. Recheck the permissions of the application
Since Android Marshmallow, users can now review the access permissions of an app on the device. This way, you can find out what access an application needs to function optimally. Therefore, make sure to read the permissions of an app first before installing it. From that request, you can also determine whether an application does require permission according to its function.
5. Always update the system regularly
Google often releases security updates on a monthly basis. Ideally, you should install updates. Because, new systems always make a number of security improvements including solutions for certain security problems.
6. Install the security application
In addition to following the tips above, you should also install a security application on your smartphone. Apart from having security features, such applications also have features of data backup, clearing cache, and locking applications.