How to find the security threats in your Android – simple guide

How to find the security threats in your Android

Android phones are generally quite secure, but there are situations where your Android can be exposed to security threats.

These security threats often take the form of apps designed to bypass restrictions in order to access sensitive data on your phone.

News24 has previously reported on several Android apps that can attack your banking services, and also a popular shopping app that was accused of hacking its users’ phones.

But how do you actually know if you have a dangerous Android app installed?

READ MORE: Simple tricks: How to make your Android faster

How to find the security threats in your Android

Fortunately, it is very easy to find dangerous apps in your Android phone.

In Android, there is a built-in function that can search for security threats automatically: Play Protect.

Here’s how to scan your phone for malicious apps with Play Protect:

  • Go to the Google Play Store app.
  • Click on your Google profile picture in the top right corner.
  • click Play Protect.
  • click Scan.
  • Play Protect regularly scans your Android phone for dangerous apps, but it doesn’t hurt to do it manually every now and then to make sure there are no security threats in your phone.

    If Play Protect finds a malicious app, it’s always best to delete it.

    READ MORE: That’s why your Android discharges so quickly – 7 common mistakes

    How to avoid malicious Android apps

    Of course, the very best thing for your phone is to avoid downloading malicious apps in the first place. But it can sometimes be a bit tricky to know if an app is safe or not.

    Here are three important things to consider before downloading an app.

  • Make sure the app is created by a well-known developer.
  • If the app is popular and has been downloaded by many people, it is probably safe, but not always.
  • Never download an app from an app store other than the Google Play store.
  • Sources: ZDNET and Android Help.

    READ MORE: 5 hidden features of your Android you should start using

    READ MORE: How to find the battery thieves in your Android – simple guide

    nh2-general