worldexecutivesdigest.com | 9 Factors to Consider Before Downloading Apps | Nowadays, there’s an app for just about everything, including some of the most useless apps ever.
Even though there are plenty of apps, don’t go rushing to download every app you see on the web. Most of these apps are loaded with malware, including spyware, which translates to data breaches. That’s why you need to be extra cautious when downloading apps, no matter how great they sound.
In this post, we’ll be discussing eight things you need to consider before downloading any app on your phone. That way, you can keep viruses and data breaches at bay.
- Source of Download
The first thing to consider is where you’re getting the app from. Always ensure you download your app from a credible source, or you might regret it.
The best place to download any app is from the official platforms of your phone’s operating system. For iPhones, it’s the Apple Store, and for Android, it’s Google Play Store. Be very cautious when downloading from third-party sites because the apps might have viruses.
Before you download any app from a third-party website, at least visit its official website. If the app doesn’t have an official website, then you should think twice.
- Is Your OS Updated
You’ve probably ignored a few OS updates, and that’s not such a good idea. Most of these updates address security loopholes with your operating system. For ultimate protection from malware, always ensure you update to the latest software.
Keep in mind that these threats to your phone are constantly evolving to bypass its security. However, with the latest software, you’ll have nothing to worry about.
For Apple, the phone OS is way different from the computer OS. However, some features may apply across the board.
Thankfully, the phone has an easier task manager, unlike Macs. You can click on this link https://setapp.com/how-to/ctrl-alt-delete-on-mac to learn how to open task manager on Mac.
- Do Your Homework
Make sure you do proper research before you download any application, especially from unofficial platforms. If it’s malicious, a few users on the internet have probably flagged it down. Also, check the reviews and see whether they’re credible.
If the app looks suspicious, try to find out its developers and the company. If they are a well-established brand, you don’t have much to worry about. However, if the app looks a bit sketchy, then you better leave it alone.
- Privacy Policy and Permission
Let’s face it; nobody ever reads the app’s privacy policy. As for permissions, most of us allow our apps access to places they shouldn’t be. If you took your time to read the privacy policy and the permission request, you’d notice red flags if any.
The privacy policy contains crucial information about the app that you’re downloading. This information includes what data the app needs from your phone and how it will use it. Next time, before you agree to any permissions and privacy policy, make sure you read the fine print.
- The Name of the Application
The name of the application speaks volumes about the app you’re downloading. Apps with queer names are a no-go zone.
One perfect example is apps that spell Android as “Undroid.” Incorrect spellings are a definite red flag that you should never ignore. They may be phishing software posing as genuine apps.
Also, be on the lookout for impostor apps posing as legitimate ones. This is pretty common with banking and social media apps. Make sure you’re downloading the correct app and not a Knock-off phishing app.
- Google Play Protect
Google Play Protect comes default with any android phone. It scans any app on the background to check for any suspicious behavior. It will alert you the moment it detects any harmful software with the apps.
You can think of it as a firewall for your phone. Although it comes pre-loaded with your android phone, always make sure it’s enabled. Some apps may ask you to disable this feature, but don’t fall for it.
- The Reviews
Most people check app reviews before downloading then, and that’s a great move. Play Store has an excellent review system where it shows the top positive and negative reviews first. Make sure you have a look at both before downloading the app.
Make sure you check out the negative reviews first because that’s where all the warnings are. Plus, there’s no need to have an app with a one-star rating on your phone.
- The Vendor or Developer
The app developer is, as you’ve probably guessed, the person that develops the app. The developer is different from the vendor, but both work together to make the app. You can think of the vendor as the middle man between the developer and the user.
Credible apps will have links that redirect you to the vendor’s page. If there’s no link, at least the app will mention the vendor’s name. Once you have the name, you can easily search for the vendor on Google.
Once you get to the vendor, you should be able to find its contact information easily. The vendor should have a professional website and definite security policies. It should also state what information they make available to advertisers.
- Numbers Never Lie
It’s easy to overlook the number, but they tell you a lot about the credibility of the app. You can never go wrong with an app that has ten million-plus downloads. An app with less than a thousand downloads may not be legitimate
Use such numbers to gauge the trustworthiness of the apps. First, check the numbers, then the ratings before you tap the download button.
Think Before Downloading Apps
Downloading apps on your phone is very exciting… until you have to spend cash to remove malware from it. The next time you download any app, be sure to consider the above factors and you’ll be good to go.
Mobile apps aside, there’s much more to learn about phone and computer security. For more informative reads on all matters tech, be sure to check out the other pieces on the site.
