So what does this mean for you, Android-powered smartphone and tablet user? Actually, not much has changed under the sun. Let’s find out why.
Isn’t Android Virus-Proof?
Wait a minute, you might be thinking, isn’t Android virus-proof? Aren’t apps prohibited from sharing info with each other? Let’s call Android virus-resistant, not virus-proof. Mobile malware has been developed before now, but the number of malware programs is small compared to the plethora of bad guys available for Windows. It’s foolish to think that malware developers will keep their hands off Android. According to NetMarketShare.com, during this past June, 17% of the traffic on the web came from a mobile device, and Android accounts for nearly 45% of that traffic.
By default, programs in an Android device can’t share information, but certain apps may request permission to do so and you, the user, may allow it. For example, I installed a popular Internet security program on a tablet recently. For it to run correctly, I had to give it access to the inner workings of the device. Because I downloaded the app from Google’s store and it’s from a well-known and trusted source, this was not a problem. But it could be, in the hands of the wrong app developer.
The Problem (and the Fix) of the Fake ID Bug
There’s no need to panic just yet; although the flaw is widespread, being present in Android versions from 2.1 to 4.3, Google has already released a fix for it. To stay safe on your Android device, follow these steps:
What’s Next for Mobile Users?
Using mobile technology has its perks and its drawbacks. Often, the main risk for any technology is the unwise decisions of the user: downloading suspect materials or programs, carelessly choosing simple passwords, using unsecured connections, etc. Mobile tech is no different. Caution and common sense are still your best friends. Read this post for more practical ways to stay safe when using mobile technology. And contact the Techsperts team if you’re concerned about your Wi-Fi or network performance or security.
How’s your IT doing? Does it need some help? Not quite sure what your options are? Contact us at Techsperts Services and find out what we can do for you.