Reduce the risk of downloading potentially harmful apps by limiting your download sources to official app stores, such as your device’s manufacturer or operating system app store. Do not download from unknown sources or install untrusted enterprise certificates. Additionally—because malicious apps have been known to slip through the security of even reputable app stores—always read […]

Even for the most sophisticated of users, it’s not impossible to download a popular app and then learn about security vulnerabilities later. To remove problematic apps from an Android device, from the Settings menu, click on the tab labeled General. Then select “Apps & notifications.” Click “App info” and select the app you want to […]

Some apps have access to the mobile device’s location services and thus have access to the user’s approximate physical location. For apps that require access to location data to function, consider limiting this access to when the app is in use only.

Google allows individuals to share their real-time location data with other trusted users. Family members may turn this feature on to help keep tabs on children or elderly individuals in crowded areas, for instance. Sharing locations can also potentially help you track down a missing device. Open Google Maps from your mobile device, and select […]

Applications (apps) on your smartphone or other mobile devices can be convenient tools to access the news, get directions, pick up a ride share, or play games. But these tools can also put your privacy at risk. When you download an app, it may ask for permission to access personal information—such as email contacts, calendar […]

If your phone is being slowed down by unnecessary junk and duplicate (or malicious) files, there are some simple software solutions you can use to help you clean things up as they accumulate. If you don’t already have it on your Android device, you can download Google Files from the Play Store. Once it’s up […]