This could be used to give you advanced tracking information, such as with a fitness app.Īs the sensor information gathered can be very detailed, however, be careful which apps are given access. It's another reason why a mobile phone that has the latest updates is more secure – but despite these instances, we'd still recommend sticking to the official app store when downloading apps.Īllows the app to access data from wearable sensors, such as heart rate monitors. Illegitimate apps have been known to slip through the cracks, although Google usually acts quickly to remove them and, if necessary, to provide a security update. Google introduced Play Protect in 2017, essentially a malware scanner that adds an extra layer of protection by scanning any apps that are installed on a mobile phone – even those that come from unofficial app stores. Differences can include a slightly altered design on a logo, an unrecognised developer, or evidence of fake review activity – such as an unusually high number of five-star reviews.
Depending on which version of Android you're using, always manually re-enable the ‘unknown sources’ block in your Android settings after you’re finished (this is done automatically in newer Android versions).īe wary of lookalike apps, which can be difficult to discern from the real thing.
If you do want to download such an app, you'll have to disable Android's built-in controls preventing unofficial apps from being installed. Quite simply, avoid installing apps that aren't on Google Play – which shouldn't be too difficult given the wide selection available. These are created to look exactly like a legitimate app, but are actually copycats that could contain malware or bombard you with advertising. There's another notable risk of downloading from unofficial stores – lookalike apps. While there's less risk of doing this with apps produced by established developers, the problem with many other unverified apps is that it's often difficult to tell how legitimate they are, or if they could be hiding malware designed to compromise your device. It may be for a legitimate reason – the popular game Fortnite and, until recently, Amazon’s Prime Video app had to be 'sideloaded' – the process of allowing apps Google hasn't verified to be installed onto your phone.
That should be enough for almost anyone, but you might find yourself tempted to install apps from outside Google Play from time to time. Google tests every app before it's allowed into the Play Store – Google's own repository that currently offers a selection of around 3 million apps. However, you might find yourself in a situation where you're tempted to shop elsewhere. Most apps you download will probably be from the official Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Until you do, the following advice will help mitigate the risks. If you're using a phone that's no longer being updated, you should consider upgrading. These support periods are based on our own estimates and research into typical manufacturer and device-specific support.