GOOGLE has warned smartphone owners about malicious apps that could be stealing their data.
There are many apps out there with the sole intention of accessing your data and even stealing your money.
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This is especially the case with owners of Android devices, thanks to its open-source program.
In contrast to iOS software, “it is easy for cybercriminals to infiltrate an Android device using malicious apps,” antimalware company Malwarefox said in a blog.
Malicious apps tend to contain malware like trojans, spyware, and keyloggers.
Malware is a malicious file or code that can infect your phone or computer.
Once the malware infects your device, it can do things like steal your information and install adware.
This information includes your contact list, personal files, your location, your passwords, and more.
To help combat these dangerous apps, Google has developed a tool called “Play Protect.”
The feature, once enabled, can scan for unnecessary or untrusted apps on your device.
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HOW TO ENABLE
First, open the Google Play Store app and then tap your profile icon in the top right.
Then tap Settings, and then look under “About” to see if your device is Play Protect certified.
To turn it on or off, open the Play Store and then tap the profile icon.
Tap Play Protect > Settings > turn Scan Apps With Play Protect on or off.
“For security, we recommend that you always keep Google Play Protect on,” Google explains.
Google adds: “If you install apps from unknown sources outside of the Google Play Store, Google Play Protect may ask you to send unknown apps to Google.
Once you have scanned apps, you can uninstall them by heading into Settings > tap Apps & notifications > See all apps.
Locate the apps you want to remove and tap Uninstall. Follow the on-screen instructions.
