Follow these steps before downloading an application

There are more than 5 million apps listed between the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store. The majority of all phone usage occurs through the use of applications. Malicious actors are aware of how popular mobile apps are and are constantly vying to exploit smartphone users. To protect yourself, use the steps listed below to help you make an informed decision if you should download and use the application.  

1. Stick to the major app stores. iOS and Android stores have a good record of reviewing applications before they are placed in their stores. This screening includes the quality and safety of the application for use. Don’t download apps from third-party sources that lack the appropriate vetting process. Third-party applications can be malicious software in disguise. If the software is only available via third-party sources, research it to ensure you are downloading “safe” software or applications. There are times when publishers will provide a link directly from their site. Just understand there is a risk associated with doing this.

2. Check the permissions the app wants to use on your phone. Permissions are an application’s way of asking for access to software and hardware on a device. For example, a social media app may ask for permission to access your photos to share them, or a GPS application may ask to use your location. However, if a free calculator app is asking to use your microphone, camera, and location, it is likely an unsafe application that is attempting to exploit your information. Regularly check these permissions and uninstall apps that are asking for to much access.  

3. Ensure you are routinely updating your applications. Although we wish applications never have to be updated, that is unreasonable. Most major software providers release patches for security vulnerabilities; failing to update your phone or apps is leaving the door wide open for malicious actors. Many phones allow for automatic updates, and it is usually a good idea to turn these on. Routinely check your software version to ensure it is up to date.  

4. Delete applications you don’t use often. Even with restricted permissions, some apps can still find ways to get at your data. The safest thing to do is delete apps you don’t use regularly or are no longer using. This frees up storage on your phone and reduces any vulnerabilities that may present themselves. 

5. Avoid “jailbreaking” and “rooting” your phone. Jailbreaking or rooting is a process to remove software limitations put in place by the phone manufacturer. These processes typically allow for more customization, but also expose phones to security risks. The process itself can permanently disable a phone if it fails to complete the entire process. A successful jailbreak allows users to download a variety of third-party apps. The jailbreak software or apps are not held to the same security standard as the manufacturer software and represent a significant vulnerability. 

6. If you are getting a spider-sense in your stomach about an application, don’t download it. If an application looks too good to be true, it probably is. Applications that have misspelled descriptions or low-quality photos should not be used. If you have already downloaded an application that seems suspect or too good to be true, the best option is to delete it. There are always safer alternatives to free apps, and there is no reason to allow access to your data accidentally. 

Software screening is incredibly complex. Very few users are qualified to delve into an application’s code to determine its safety. The steps listed above will help you make a more informed choice when it comes to downloading apps to your device. If you still have concerns about the safety of applications or software you are using, find a reputable information security firm to help you review the application/.