For users of Android, installing apps from Google Play, and only from Google Play, is a smart choice. With strong security rules, monitoring of official apps, lots of user reviews and scrutiny from security researchers, the official Android store tends to be a safe place to download apps. Even when malware makes it to Google Play, it is quickly identified and removed.
Android device owners, however, also have the option to download and install apps from third-party sources. But does freedom outweigh danger?
On the one hand, having the ability to shop outside of the Google Play Store can be very useful; not all apps are available there. On the other hand, this freedom comes with a greater risk of infection, because outside the official store, apps lose Google's quality and security oversight.
Along with a program's installer – or even instead of it – dangerous applications can enter users' devices and steal personal data, money, or both.
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Here are just a few examples of such attacks:
- A popular alternative app store was infected with a Trojan and started distributing malware;
● Using permission to install unknown apps, criminals have distributed ransomware disguised as a beta version of a game called Cyberpunk 2077 ;
● Other criminals passed the Loapi malware as an antivirus utility and an adult content application. The Trojan turned smartphones into bots for DDoS attacks, had them exploit cryptocurrencies or simply flooded them with advertisements.
The above items are a sampling of why new phones come with external software installation disabled. To avoid falling victim to scams that depend on this type of download, don't be tempted to allow the installation of unknown applications and, if you have done so, turn it off immediately.
What if a program you need isn't available from the official store, but you still need to install it?
• Search for similar apps. Try looking for alternatives in the official store. Perhaps there is an app with functions that meet your needs.
• Please check the file before installing. Even if you can't do without a third-party source, don't rush to change your settings. First, download the installation file and, before starting it, scan it with your mobile antivirus solution.
• Check permissions. Consider the list of permissions the application asks for during installation. If a program is demanding, try to find something similar with more doable requests.
• Disable installation of unknown apps. Remember to change your settings again after installation. Don't leave your phone exposed to malware!
