Mobile Security: Should You Be Worried About Android Viruses?

The security of Android devices is a concern for many people, especially with recent reports of malware showing up in apps available through the Google Play Store. With the rise of ransomware and other malicious software, keeping your Android device safe has never been more critical, but should you be worried about viruses?

Android Viruses

While computer viruses have become increasingly common, Android infections are still relatively rare. The average user is far more likely to encounter adware, spyware and other types of malicious software than a virus. However, it’s wise to protect your device against all threats, as viruses and malware are continually evolving and are likely to become more common in the future.

Android Protection

Keeping your device, operating system, and apps up to date with the newest security patches is crucial for protecting against viruses. The majority of malicious software is downloaded through third-party apps, so installing apps from reputable sources, such as the Google Play store, will dramatically reduce the risk of malware infection. Some malicious apps manage to bypass Google’s security features, however, so using an Android security suite, such as McAfee, Norton or AVG, will help to detect and remove potential threats.

Virus Removal

If a virus infects your Android device, you need to take swift action to avoid data loss and device damage. Disconnect your device from the internet and any other networks immediately, disabling all connectivity options, including wireless and Bluetooth.

If you know which app caused the infection, try to uninstall it. You may need to disable administrator status in the app’s settings first. You can also try putting your phone into safe mode, as this should prevent the infected app from running and enable you to remove it. If you are still unable to remove the app or you’re unsure which one has caused the problem, you will need to perform a factory reset to wipe all of the data from your device.

Android viruses are still relatively rare, but they do exist, and you need to take steps to protect your device. However, you are far more likely to encounter spyware, adware and other types of malicious software.