Although the iPhone is the most popular brand of smartphone in the UK, across the world, more people use an Android smartphone than any other. Android differs from Apple’s iOS by being an ‘open’ operating system. This means that different smartphone makers can alter it to suit their devices, including Samsung, Nokia, Sony, Google and OnePlus. And any developer can make an app for it.
However, this flexibility and free reign also means that Android phones are a bit more susceptible to the unsavoury side of digital life, such as malware and viruses.Let’s take a look at some of the measures you should take to shore up your Android safety.
The first thing to do is always make sure you’re running the latest version of Android software on your device. Not only do Android system updates come with new features, they also come with tighter security and bug fixes waletqq.
You’ll usually be prompted to run the next software update when it’s available. But to ensure your smartphone is updated to the latest Android operating system, head to Settings > System > Advanced > System update. There you’ll find what version of Android you’re running, and if there’s a new update available.
There are all sorts of apps available to make your Android experience more productive, creative, and fun. From world famous social media apps to smaller apps for specific interests or popular mobile games, you can find most of these in the Google Play Store.
However, you can also download apps outside the Play Store, which Google refers to as ‘unknown apps’. These apps are usually blocked by default, however you can still download them if you give specific permission waletqq.
Downloading and installing apps from random sources (such as a popup website or email) is not recommended, as they could be hiding viruses that can be used to steal data or damage your phone.
