ANDROID users have been informed of a Google tool that can help keep their data safe.
An app dubbed Google Play Protect app can help keep Android users’ personal information protected from harmful malware and scammers.
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It’s available for free to all Android users via the Google Play store and can deter harmful cyberattacks.
“Play Protect is built into every device with Google Play, is always updating, and automatically takes action to keep your data and device safe, so you don’t have to lift a finger,” Google noted on its blog.
HOW DOES THE TOOL WORK?
The feature works by checking apps to see if they’re safe before you download them.
Moreover, Play Protect can scan your entire device for malware and dangerous apps on your phone.
Malware is a malicious file or code that can infect your phone or computer.
It can attack your device through malicious apps, compromised emails, or non-secure WiFi connections.
Should Play Protect detect something, it will send you notifications as well as privacy alerts.
It will also flag any apps that are trying to access your personal information.
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HOW TO ENABLE PLAY PROTECT
To enable Play Protect, open the Google Play Store app and then tap your profile icon in the top right.
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 and then 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.
