However, you may be surprised to learn that BlackBerry, despite its demise in the smartphone world, has been offering the latest Android security patches at a faster rate than its competitors, such as Samsung. Since BlackBerry launched its first smartphone, it has been strongly committed to device security. BlackBerry renewed, or reaffirmed, this commitment when they launched the Android operating system on their devices.
Read More: Android vs. iPhone: Which One Has Better Security?
Samsung, on the other hand, doesn’t issue immediate security updates, and may take more than a month to pass on the updates to its customers. They can also choose to not pass on security updates, though Samsung tends to be better about that than other leading manufacturers. Samsung, especially now that BlackBerry has officially decided to step out of the smartphone world, should become more devoted to timely and frequent Android security updates.
Firstly, make sure that your smartphone is receiving the latest security and software updates for Android. For more than a year, Google has released monthly security updates. Check out the Android Security Bulletin to ensure that you have received these monthly updates, and if you haven’t, make sure that your phone receives them. If you are using an older operating system, it may be necessary to upgrade your phone in order to receive the latest security updates. While this may seem like an inconvenience, it is a step that must be taken if you want to secure your device and personal information.
Secondly, download antivirus software to further secure your device against any possible security threats. That way, you can spend less time worrying about timely manufacturer security updates. Download PSafe Total for unbeatable, 24/7 antivirus protection for your smartphone: it is AV-Test certified and has been rated one of the best antivirus apps in the world.
]]>Gal Beniamini, a Duo Labs security researcher, revealed that 60% of Android smartphones using a Qualcomm processor are susceptible to an attack. While this doesn’t mean that it will happen, these devices do have a higher likelihood of a security attack. The reason for this is that other companies do not bother to install the monthly Android security patch that has been issued. Android phones that do not receive the patch do not receive valuable updates that can prevent security issues.
Read More: Common Viruses and How to Stop Them Before it’s Too Late
With all of this in mind, how can you keep your phone safe, especially if you have a device not receiving security updates? The following are some ways you can protect your device from security threats.
Always update your phone with the latest security patch. These installations won’t provide your Android phone with new features, but they will help prevent any security issues. Once someone identifies a way that hackers can exploit an Android weakness, the company can create a way to block it. If you ignore the new security patch, you might be setting yourself up for a disaster.
Viruses and malware happen. However, there are precautions you can take. Don’t leave your phone unprotected while looking online for the best shopping deals. Instead, turn to PSafe Total for complete antivirus protection. PSafe Total will allow you to browse online without worry — and keep all of your private information safe.
Only install apps from companies you can trust. Also, only install apps from the Google Play Store. While sneaky viruses or malware can still find their way into apps from the Play store, it doesn’t often happen with big name companies. If an app only has a handful of reviews, and just as many downloads, don’t download it. It isn’t worth the risk.
Do you ever leave your phone at your desk? What about on the table when your roommates are home? What if you lost your phone or have a snoopy coworker? Set up a lockscreen on your phone so you can keep your texts, images, and personal information for your eyes only. You can also use PSafe Total to set up password protection on your photo album. You can never be too careful when it comes to your personal information.
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