Most people have argued a lot about the security level of the Google Play Store, an application store that records the highest numbers of downloads.
Just think of any app, you would find it on the Google Play Store. Probably, because the requirements needed for any app developer to get a newly developed application on the store is not as stringent as the Apple Play Store.
However, mobile applications have proven to be the best solutions to some human problems. And this has influenced the number of downloads from the Google Play Store.
As far as security is concerned, Google has been playing its role to ensure the safety of applications.
Before launching any app on the platform, rigorous scanning usually takes place.
Arguably, Google does not revisit those apps to scan for vulnerabilities.
They can only do that if there is a complaint from the end users.
“While Google takes a lot of effort to remove virus and malware, malicious intent is something which they don’t or can’t check for that well,” says Prateek Panda, Co-Founder of Appknox.
For instance, the malicious intent here means if an app like LED flashlight says it’s going to access your social media accounts, etc. prior to installation or use.
Does such app need to access all that before you can use it, the answer is NO.
But Google will possibly not spot such and that’s an app with malicious intent.
That is why its important to start paying close attention to details during app installation. When you download an app, find out what the app would like to access before installation.
If it doesn’t resonate with your security standards, then it’s probably not safe.
For me, you shouldn’t blame Google for such ignorance emanating from you.
Emphatically, know exactly what an app requires to access before you install them.
It tells you before you click the install button but you probably don’t read them.
“As far as security is concerned, at Appknox we have scanned hundreds of apps and have seen that more than 90% of the apps are insecure, varying to a different extent.
Some security issues concern the consumer, while the others concern the business or app developer”, Panda says.
Unfortunately, most of the malware or viruses have a mysterious way of passing the test and screening from Google.
However, if you have ignorantly downloaded a malicious app, you need not panic but to act fast.
Personally, the first thing you need to do is to contact your bank and instruct them to shut down your account temporarily.
You can as well, reach out to as many relevant contacts as possible, letting them know the newest development.
Conclusion
The takeaway from this piece is to pay close attention to what an app requires to access before installation.
