Android P’s New Features Guard You Against Snoops and Spies

With each new version of Android that’s released to the public, Google attempts to improve the operating system’s overall security. Recently, the company introduced their latest version of Android to developers for testing. The newest iteration merely codenamed ‘P’ places immense focus on improving the ease-of-use and overall design of Android’s interface, but dig deeper and you’ll find new protocols put in place to protect you from applications that attempt to spy through your smartphone’s camera and microphone.

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Developers noticed these new changes in the Android P focus on apps in the background, known as idle applications, will now be unable to access content from the microphone or camera systems. Google notes the feature notes is in place to ‘protect user’s privacy.’ While you wait for the latest release of Android to add an extra barrier of security, there are some easy precautions you can take with your existing OS.

Keep Your Eye On App Permissions
When an application presents you with a pop-up, don’t just hit okay and continue on. Take the time to read the message displayed to you. In many circumstances, an Android app may be asking for permission to access certain parts of the system. This can involve your contacts, photo library, and even your camera and microphone.

Carefully note what permissions an application is asking for and use common sense when doling out access. For example, a calendar app most likely doesn’t need to access your microphone, and a video game doesn’t need to access your contact book.

Lockdown Sensitive Apps
Your smartphone passcode is your first line of defense, but what if it were to fail? Or, what if you were to hand your phone to a friend so that they could make a call and keeping your apps safe is a concern. Consider using a solution such as dfndr security’s applock feature, which allows you to create an additional passcode, or use a scanned fingerprint when opening certain apps. Best of all, you get to choose which apps to hide or not.

Security apps that add a second level of authentication is an excellent way to protect your banking apps and other sensitive information.

Always Keep Your Device Updated
Lastly, and most important, be sure to keep your device updated with the latest available software. While Google may only issue massive updates once a year that doesn’t mean the apps you use or the phone manufacturer doesn’t prompt you to update.

Take the appropriate steps to ensure that your phone’s operating system current and check the Google Play Store to guarantee all of your apps have the latest patches. New vulnerabilities and threats happen quickly so the best way to stay safe is to stay ahead.