The number of devices that are running vulnerable Android versions has been on a constant rise since 2011. This shouldn't come as a surprise at all since a University of Cambridge study found that around 87% of all Android devices are unsafe. There are multiple reasons why this is happening, but most of them are connected to the fact that many Android users still don't recognize the importance of fully protecting their smartphones.
One thing that we all have to keep in mind is that it's simply not enough to stay away from shady web pages, in order to stay protected against various attacks. Once we fully accept that the Internet is not a safe place, we'll be one step further to remaining secure. But until that happens we should do whatever it is in our power to spread the knowledge about the importance of staying invulnerable and out of harm's way. This is why we're going to talk about 5 essential apps that can help you and keep you sheltered and inviolable.
Avast Mobile Security
We've probably all heard of Avast Antivirus program that's designed to keep your computer protected. Not many Android users also know that Avast has developed an Android version of the app that's called Avast Mobile Security & Virus Cleaner.
Avast brags that over 400 million people use Avast to protect their devices. It's a pretty respectable number, so no one can blame the company for pointing out the truly impressive piece of stat line. Avast really offers a wide range of possibilities and ways to protect your Android device. You can choose to receive alerts whenever a spyware or adware-infected apps are downloaded. On top of that, you can also keep your Android device secure against phishing attacks that come either from e-mails, websites, SMS messages, and even phone calls.
Sophos Antivirus and Security
We continue to talk about some of the best antivirus apps for your Android device and our list would be incomplete if we didn't mention Sophos. Even though you might not feel impressed by its user interface at first glance, you'll most certainly appreciate many features that go along.
What's probably the most impressive about Sophos Intercept X for Mobile is that it offers full features, with no advertising whatsoever, and everything completely free. On top of this, we should also mention the fact that Sophos doesn't interfere with your device's performance and it won't impact battery life.
Sophos offers malware protection, web filtering, link checking, password app protection, Wi-Fi security, privacy and security advisor, secure QR code scanning, authenticator, intune mobile threat defense (MTD), and many more features.
Always Use an App With a Reliable VPN Service
No matter which device or app you're particularly using, it's paramount that you always opt for a reliable VPN (Virtual Private Network) service.
The main reason why you'd want to do this is to keep your online browsing both private and safe. This is particularly handy for those who travel frequently and want to enjoy their favorite paid streaming services. Even though there are many VPNs out there, on this list you can find a few that are super good for your needs. If you're not familiar with the concept, we strongly recommend you to learn more about free VPN services.
AppLock
This app is fairly simple to use and even its name is pretty self-explanatory. What AppLock does for you is individual app protection. If someone tries to gain access to your protected apps, she or he will be asked to enter a pin or draw a pattern.
What's great about AppLock is that you can protect virtually any single app – you can put a lock on your Gmail account, SMS messages, Contacts, you name it.
Many people still confuse AppLock with their phone's built-in lock. The main difference is that a built-in lock will put a lock on the entire Android device, which means that nothing can or will be accessed unless you know the pin, pattern, or can fake someone's fingerprint or face. AppLock actually gives you another layer of protection for those apps that you feel like they need some extra shield.
Signal Private Messenger
One can make a case that there are many secure messaging apps these days. But the main reason why we've chosen to single out Signal Private Messenger is the fact that it works even if both users are not using the same app.
And while we're on the subject of 'extra layer of security', Signal Private Messenger offers you just that. Even the regular SMS messages will stay secure if you opt for installing and using this open-source app. End to end encryption gives you peace of mind since nothing is stored on its server.
If you're looking for the instant messaging app that has 'Security' written all over it, look no further than Signal Private Messenger.
Find My Device
No list could be considered complete without mentioning the Find My Device app. This app is essentially an improved Android Device Manager which allows you to ring, find, or lock your Android device remotely.
Apart from these features, Find My Device also enables you to completely wipe out all data that are stored on your Android device, in case it gets stolen or you're unable to retrieve it back for whatever reason but you don't want to risk anyone getting all the information stored there.
It's comforting to know that you can always access your phone remotely, so we advise you to install this app, especially if the service is not already offered by your Android device.
Final Thoughts
Online security has been a huge issue ever since the internet became a global phenomenon. At first, we've struggled to stay on the safe side of things trying to protect our computers. People use their Android devices even more than their computers to surf the web. So, nowadays we have to put even more effort since safeguarding our smartphones has become one of the top priorities.
The internet is never safe, but luckily, there are some things we can all do to reduce the risks associated with online activities. We strongly recommend you to consider these 5 essential apps. That way you'll significantly increase your chances of staying secure on your Android device.
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