How do you install trustworthy mobile apps?

1 Check the source

The first step to install trustworthy mobile apps is to check the source of the app. The source is the platform or website where you can download or purchase the app. The most common sources are the official app stores, such as Google Play Store for Android devices or Apple App Store for iOS devices. These app stores have policies and guidelines for app developers, and they scan and review apps for quality and security. However, they are not perfect, and sometimes malicious or low-quality apps can slip through the cracks. Therefore, you should always read the app description, ratings, reviews, and permissions before installing an app from an official app store.

2 Avoid third-party app stores

The second step to install trustworthy mobile apps is to avoid third-party app stores. Third-party app stores are platforms or websites that are not affiliated with the official app stores or the device manufacturers. They may offer apps that are not available on the official app stores, or apps that are cheaper or free. However, they also pose a higher risk of malware, spyware, or other unwanted features. Third-party app stores may not have the same policies and guidelines for app developers, and they may not scan and review apps for quality and security. Therefore, you should be very cautious and skeptical when downloading or purchasing an app from a third-party app store.

3 Verify the developer

The third step to install trustworthy mobile apps is to verify the developer of the app. The developer is the person or company that created and maintains the app. The developer's name, contact information, and website should be clearly displayed on the app page on the official or third-party app store. You should research the developer's reputation, history, and credentials before installing an app. You can also check if the developer has a verified badge or a certificate of authenticity on the app page. These badges or certificates indicate that the developer has passed some security or quality checks by the app store or a third-party authority.

4 Scan the app

The fourth step to install trustworthy mobile apps is to scan the app for malware, spyware, or other unwanted features. You can use a mobile antivirus or security app to scan the app before or after installing it. A mobile antivirus or security app is an app that protects your device from malicious or harmful software. You can download a mobile antivirus or security app from the official app store, and make sure it is from a reputable developer and has good ratings and reviews. You should also update your mobile antivirus or security app regularly, and run scans periodically.

5 Manage the permissions

The fifth step to install trustworthy mobile apps is to manage the permissions of the app. The permissions are the access or control that the app requests or requires over your device's features, such as camera, microphone, location, contacts, or storage. The permissions should be relevant and necessary for the app's functionality and purpose. For example, a camera app may need permission to access your camera, but a calculator app may not. You should review and adjust the permissions of the app before or after installing it, and deny or revoke any permissions that are suspicious or excessive.

6 Update the app

The sixth step to install trustworthy mobile apps is to update the app regularly. Updating the app means downloading and installing the latest version of the app that the developer releases. Updating the app can improve the app's performance, functionality, or security. It can also fix any bugs, errors, or vulnerabilities that the app may have. You should check for app updates frequently, and enable automatic updates if possible. You should also uninstall or disable any apps that are no longer supported or updated by the developer.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?