What mobile device apps do you use on a daily basis? From weather to news to games, mobile devices come with it all. Apps are easy to download, often free, and they are so convenient to download that you might not be thinking of some key security questions before installing that application on your device.
Security Software
Most PCs and laptops have all sorts of security software nowadays, but it is imperative you are doing the same with your mobile devices. You might be wondering, how do I know if the security app is safe and effective? The first step is to do your research. Go online and find independent reviews for the security app. Security software will help scan your apps for anything that looks out of the ordinary.
Permissions
Apps will ask you permission questions before you download them. For example, an app may ask permission to see your location, to post items to social media accounts, to obtain information about phone calls, or the ability to read and write on your SD card. Ask yourself, does this app really need permission to see my location or read my SD card? If it is a weather app, it would make sense that it needed to see your location. However, if it is just a gaming app, it might not make sense.
Developers
Just as you look up reviews for restaurants before you go, use this same review system when it comes to purchasing apps. Look into what you are buying before you actually buy it. To do this, look specifically at the apps' developer. Most of them will have websites and you can view what other apps they've developed as well. Another safe bet is to stick with well-known platforms. Don't install an app on your device that has no reviews and is one you have never heard of.
Keep your apps up to date
It is annoying when you receive constant reminders to update your apps. You probably think to yourself, "How could this app already need updating? I just did this a couple days ago." It is important that you are keeping your apps updated. Why? Developers are constantly fixing issues- whether they're simple bugs that cause an app not to function correctly or security problems that put users at risk. Our advice: keep your mobile device apps updated.
As an app consumer, be security conscious. Take the simple steps above into consideration before clicking 'purchase'.
Sources:
https://www.apperian.com/mobile-application-management/mobile-app-security/
http://computer.howstuffworks.com/know-if-app-safe.htm
