In the News
Malicious apps continue to plague users of smart devices. In Android adware had nearly 150 million Google Play downloads before being pulled, Jacob Kastrenakes at The Verge discusses how over 200 apps available for Android devices contained malicious advertising code allowing ads to appear through various means outside of the downloaded app itself. Kastrenakes explains that Google Play has a less strict policy for app review as opposed to the Apple App Store, but he does state that Google has removed many of the adware containing apps from its online store.
Our Take
With the thousands of available apps to purchase and download on Google Play or the App Store, malicious apps are bound to appear. However, with stringent review processes, the amount that get through the screening process can be significantly reduced. While Google has made positive changes to decrease the number of malicious apps available for users to download, significant challenges still arise. The fact that 150 million downloads of malicious apps were made before Google was able to take action emphasizes the importance of user research before downloading any app or program online. Just because an app or program is available for download does not mean that it is entirely safe. It is vital that users research apps and programs before they download anything to reduce the probability that they accidentally install malicious software on their devices. Additionally, these types of incidents should remind users to think about whether or not an app download is necessary before taking actions. Only downloads applications and programs if you will use them often.
Recommendations
How can you protect your device from malicious programs?
- Use safe password practices, and take advantage of Multi-factor Authentication where possible
- Avoid clicking directly on links, whether in email or social media – always search through your search engine to verify legitimacy and find the appropriate site
- Always research applications before downloading to verify they are legitimate
- Avoid clicking directly on ads– always search through your search engine to verify legitimacy and find the appropriate site