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Scottish Sun
27-05-2025
- Scottish Sun
Dangerous phone myths that leave you ‘vulnerable' to Big Brother-style spying – & millions of gadget owners are affected
There are simple ways users can protect themselves from malware SPY-PHONE! Dangerous phone myths that leave you 'vulnerable' to Big Brother-style spying – & millions of gadget owners are affected Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) ANDROID users who follow dangerous phone myths are putting themselves at risk from Big Brother-style spying. The platform has long had a reputation for being more vulnerable to malware than iOS due to its open nature. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 2 Many Android users are lulled into a false sense of security Yet many real threats today are not where most users think they are. The myths surrounding Android malware can give users a false sense of security and lead to risky behaviour. Here are EIGHT of the most common Android malware myths that put your phone at risk – and what you should be doing instead. Malware only comes from outside the Play Store The truth is bad actors are increasingly using sophisticated methods to avoid detection. One of the most common misconceptions is that Android malware only originates from sketchy websites, pirated APKs, or unofficial app stores. While these are certainly higher risk, they are not the only sources of malicious software. Increasingly, malware is showing up in apps that appear completely legitimate. Some sneak through Google Play's review process, posing as flashlight tools, camera filters, VPNs, or even educational games. These apps may work as advertised, but quietly harvest user data, inject adware, or install background services that are hard to detect. Some use delayed activation, waiting days or weeks to execute harmful behaviour. While the Play Store is safer than most third-party stores, it is not immune to malware. Always check permissions, reviews, developer history, and download counts before installing apps. Avoid sideloading APKs unless you trust the source and understand the risks. Don't assume every app on the Play Store is safe. FBI and GCHQ issue urgent warning over Chinese spy operation accessing people's messages, photos and location You're safe if your phone runs Android 13 or later Not true. Threats keep adapting to OS changes. While older Android versions are more vulnerable to malware – especially those not receiving security updates – that doesn't mean newer versions are entirely safe. Even with Android 15's improved security features, malware campaigns continue to evolve with more sophisticated evasion techniques. Many malware threats rely on social engineering and trick users into giving up sensitive data or granting unnecessary permissions. Newer Android versions can limit what apps can do in the background, but they can't protect you from every human error. To stay safe, always be wary of apps asking for extra permissions. Malware can manipulate users into giving access, irrespective of the phone's Android version. Remember that safe behaviour is as crucial as system-level defences. You only need an antivirus app to stay safe on Android Another dangerous myth. Many antivirus apps on Android are more about marketing than real protection. They often run persistent background processes, drain the battery, and serve ads while offering little beyond what Google Play Protect already does. In reality, Android is built on a permission-based sandbox model that limits what apps can access. 2 There is a valuable protection service on the Play Store – but it's not foolproof You probably don't need a third-party antivirus application if you're not sideloading random apps or tapping suspicious links. Some so-called security apps may also contain malware, or at the very least, aggressively collect user data. Ironically, users install them to feel secure, not realising they might be introducing more risk. Instead of downloading antivirus apps, focus on good digital hygiene. Don't grant unnecessary permissions, keep your OS up to date, avoid sketchy apps, and use Google's built-in security features to protect your phone. You'll know right away if your phone is infected Another popular myth is that malware instantly attacks your phone when you download it. While there are rare advanced persistent threats, most Android malware is less dramatic and more about stealthy profit-making. For example, they might steal your credentials, record calls, show fraudulent ads, or subscribe to paid services. Some spyware can operate for months without noticeable symptoms, especially if disguised as a system app. These types of malware often operate quietly in the background, draining your battery or mobile data. You may not notice them for days or even weeks. Watch for warning signs like overheating, unexpected data usage, performance lags, or strange notifications. Run a manual scan with Play Protect and check which apps can access your background data or display over other apps. Factory resetting your phone removes all malware In many cases, a factory reset will wipe malware from your phone. However, advanced malware can persist, especially if installed in the system partition or preloaded on the device by a malicious vendor. Some threats can survive resets or reinstall themselves through a hidden dropper. A factory reset is not a guaranteed fix. If your phone remains compromised, you may need to reflash the firmware or use special tools provided by security vendors. Rooted phones are always at risk Rooting your phone bypasses some built-in security features, which can increase your exposure to threats. But this does not automatically mean your device is compromised. You can still secure your rooted devices by limiting root access, using firewalls, and restricting permissions. Rooting expands both the risks and your control. If you understand the tradeoffs and take steps to mitigate vulnerabilities, a rooted phone is not necessarily a magnet for malware. VPNs protect you from all malware VPNs are great for encrypting your internet traffic and hiding your IP address, but they don't offer comprehensive malware protection. They won't stop you from installing a malicious app, clicking a phishing link, or falling victim to a fake login page. Although many VPN providers offer malware filters, they're limited in scope. VPNs are a privacy tool, not an antivirus replacement. You can use them as part of your security toolkit, but they should not be your only line of defence. Google Play Protect is all you need against malware Google Play Protect is a valuable built-in defense mechanism. It scans apps for malware before and after installation and regularly checks for suspicious behavior. However, it has limitations. It may not detect sophisticated threats, especially those with delayed activation or encrypted payloads. Play Protect is a helpful security measure, but it is not foolproof. For complete protection, keep your device updated, use permission controls wisely, and be selective about the apps you install, even those from the Play Store.
The Irish Sun
27-05-2025
- The Irish Sun
Dangerous phone myths that leave you ‘vulnerable' to Big Brother-style spying – & millions of gadget owners are affected
ANDROID users who follow dangerous phone myths are putting themselves at risk from Big Brother-style spying. The platform has long had a reputation for being more vulnerable to malware than due to its open nature. 2 Many Android users are lulled into a false sense of security Yet many real threats today are not where most users think they are. The myths surrounding Android malware can give users a false sense of security and lead to risky behaviour. Here are EIGHT of the most common Android malware myths that put your phone at risk – and what you should be doing instead. Malware only comes from outside the Play Store The truth is bad actors are increasingly using sophisticated methods to avoid detection. One of the most common misconceptions is that Android malware only originates from sketchy websites, pirated APKs, or unofficial app stores. While these are certainly higher risk, they are not the only sources of malicious software. Increasingly, malware is showing up in apps that appear completely legitimate. Some sneak through These apps may work as advertised, but quietly harvest user data, inject adware, or install background services that are hard to detect. Most read in Tech Some use delayed activation, waiting days or weeks to execute harmful behaviour. While the Play Store is safer than most third-party stores, it is not immune to malware. Always check permissions, reviews, developer history, and download counts before installing apps. Avoid sideloading APKs unless you trust the source and understand the risks. Don't assume every app on the Play Store is safe. FBI and GCHQ issue urgent warning over Chinese spy operation accessing people's messages, photos and location You're safe if your phone runs Android 13 or later Not true. Threats keep adapting to OS changes. While older Android versions are more vulnerable to malware – especially those not receiving security updates – that doesn't mean newer versions are entirely safe. Even with Android 15's improved security features, malware campaigns continue to evolve with more sophisticated evasion techniques. Many malware threats rely on social engineering and trick users into giving up sensitive data or granting unnecessary permissions. Newer Android versions can limit what apps can do in the background, but they can't protect you from every human error. To stay safe, always be wary of apps asking for extra permissions. Malware can manipulate users into giving access, irrespective of the phone's Android version. Remember that safe behaviour is as crucial as system-level defences. You only need an antivirus app to stay safe on Android Another dangerous myth. Many antivirus apps on Android are more about marketing than real protection. They often run persistent background processes, drain the battery, and serve ads while offering little beyond what Google Play Protect already does. In reality, Android is built on a permission-based sandbox model that limits what apps can access. 2 There is a valuable protection service on the Play Store – but it's not foolproof You probably don't need a third-party antivirus application if you're not sideloading random Some so-called security apps may also contain malware, or at the very least, aggressively collect user data. Ironically, users install them to feel secure, not realising they might be introducing more risk. Instead of downloading antivirus apps, focus on good digital hygiene. Don't grant unnecessary permissions, keep your OS up to date, avoid sketchy apps, and use Google's built-in security features to protect your phone. You'll know right away if your phone is infected Another popular myth is that malware instantly attacks your phone when you download it. While there are rare advanced persistent threats, most Android malware is less dramatic and more about stealthy profit-making. For example, they might steal your credentials, record calls, show fraudulent ads, or subscribe to paid services. Some spyware can operate for months without noticeable symptoms, especially if disguised as a system app. These types of malware often operate quietly in the background, draining your battery or mobile data. You may not notice them for days or even weeks. Watch for warning signs like overheating, unexpected data usage, performance lags, or strange notifications. Run a manual scan with Play Protect and check which apps can access your background data or display over other apps. Factory resetting your phone removes all malware In many cases, a factory reset will wipe malware from your phone. However, advanced malware can persist, especially if installed in the system partition or preloaded on the device by a malicious vendor. Some threats can survive resets or reinstall themselves through a hidden dropper. A factory reset is not a guaranteed fix. If your phone remains compromised, you may need to reflash the firmware or use special tools provided by security vendors. Rooted phones are always at risk Rooting your phone bypasses some built-in security features, which can increase your exposure to threats. But this does not automatically mean your device is compromised. You can still secure your rooted devices by limiting root access, using firewalls, and restricting permissions. Rooting expands both the risks and your control. If you understand the tradeoffs and take steps to mitigate vulnerabilities, a rooted phone is not necessarily a magnet for malware. VPNs protect you from all malware VPNs are great for encrypting your internet traffic and hiding your IP address, but they don't offer comprehensive malware protection. They won't stop you from installing a malicious app, clicking a phishing link, or falling victim to a fake login page. Although many VPN providers offer malware filters, they're limited in scope. VPNs are a privacy tool, not an antivirus replacement. You can use them as part of your security toolkit, but they should not be your only line of defence. Google Play Protect is all you need against malwar e Google Play Protect is a valuable built-in defense mechanism. It scans apps for malware before and after installation and regularly checks for suspicious behavior. However, it has limitations. It may not detect sophisticated threats, especially those with delayed activation or encrypted payloads. Read more on the Irish Sun Play Protect is a helpful security measure, but it is not foolproof. For complete protection, keep your device updated, use permission controls wisely, and be selective about the apps you install, even those from the Play Store. Eight most dangerous myths The following myths can give users a false sense of security and lead to risky behaviour. Don't get caught out. Malware only comes from outside the Play Store You're safe if your phone runs Android 13 or later You only need an antivirus app to stay safe on Android You'll know right away if your phone is infected Factory resetting your phone removes all malware Rooted phones are always at risk VPNs protect you from all malware Google Play Protect is all you need against malware
The Irish Sun
23-05-2025
- The Irish Sun
Android owners warned over new apps on Google Play Store that could empty bank accounts of whopping £5,000
ANDROID owners should be wary of a big change coming to the Google Play Store that means some apps could cost thousands to install. Google has just raised its pricing limit from £1,000 to £4,999, according to 1 Google has made sure these apps have to prove themselves before whacking on such a lofty price tag Credit: Getty The tech giant bumped its maximum app prices from £200 to £400 in 2015, and then again last year to £1,000. The price limit applies worldwide - except South Korea, which will stick to the equivalent of a £400 maximum. So if you see any blisteringly expensive apps on the You don't want to accidentally buy something you cannot really afford. READ MORE ON ANDROID And they're not scams either. Google has made sure these apps have to prove themselves before whacking on such a lofty price tag. For example, only established developers in good standing with Google are eligible. These apps must also prove they are bringing in at least $1million a year in app sales. Most read in Tech Then they can formally request Google give them the uplift, after explaining exactly why the pricing is justified. Google's Gemini AI app lets you chat out loud with shockingly humanlike virtual helper It's not yet clear what type of apps could cost so much - or who would be buying them. Although the appetite for artificial intelligence (AI) applications could explain it. Google itself recently introduced an eye-watering $3,000 per year subscription for AI Ultra - so it's no surprise these big numbers are on the brain. Currently, the most expensive app on the Google Play Store appears to be a spoof game called Fisherpunk, which costs an eyewatering £300. Despite its price, and incredibly basic design, Fisherpunk has been downloaded more than 1,000 times. On the rival Apple Store, CyberTuner, a software tool for tuning pianos, is available for a whopping £999. WHAT CAN GOOGLE PLAY PROTECT DO? Google Play Protect can help shield Android owners from dodgy apps. Here's the official list of actions it'll take... It runs a safety check on apps from the Google Play Store before you download them. It checks your device for potentially harmful apps from other sources. These harmful apps are sometimes called malware. It warns you about potentially harmful apps. It may deactivate or remove harmful apps from your device. It warns you about detected apps that violate our Unwanted Software Policy by hiding or misrepresenting important information. It sends you privacy alerts about apps that can get user permissions to access your personal information, violating our developer policy. It may reset app permissions to protect your privacy on certain Android versions. It may prevent an application from being installed that is unverified and uses sensitive device permissions that are commonly targeted by scammers to commit financial fraud. Picture Credit: Google
Scottish Sun
23-05-2025
- Scottish Sun
Android owners warned over new apps on Google Play Store that could empty bank accounts of whopping £5,000
Currently, the most expensive app on the Google Play Store appears to be a spoof game called Fisherpunk, which costs an eyewatering £300 FAT THUMBS Android owners warned over new apps on Google Play Store that could empty bank accounts of whopping £5,000 Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) ANDROID owners should be wary of a big change coming to the Google Play Store that means some apps could cost thousands to install. Google has just raised its pricing limit from £1,000 to £4,999, according to Android Authority. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 1 Google has made sure these apps have to prove themselves before whacking on such a lofty price tag Credit: Getty The tech giant bumped its maximum app prices from £200 to £400 in 2015, and then again last year to £1,000. The price limit applies worldwide - except South Korea, which will stick to the equivalent of a £400 maximum. So if you see any blisteringly expensive apps on the Play Store - it's not a glitch, or a joke. You don't want to accidentally buy something you cannot really afford. READ MORE ON ANDROID SOUNDS PHONEY Google admits all Android TV viewers will soon see MORE pop-ups on telly apps And they're not scams either. Google has made sure these apps have to prove themselves before whacking on such a lofty price tag. For example, only established developers in good standing with Google are eligible. These apps must also prove they are bringing in at least $1million a year in app sales. Then they can formally request Google give them the uplift, after explaining exactly why the pricing is justified. Google's Gemini AI app lets you chat out loud with shockingly humanlike virtual helper It's not yet clear what type of apps could cost so much - or who would be buying them. Although the appetite for artificial intelligence (AI) applications could explain it. Google itself recently introduced an eye-watering $3,000 per year subscription for AI Ultra - so it's no surprise these big numbers are on the brain. Currently, the most expensive app on the Google Play Store appears to be a spoof game called Fisherpunk, which costs an eyewatering £300. Despite its price, and incredibly basic design, Fisherpunk has been downloaded more than 1,000 times. On the rival Apple Store, CyberTuner, a software tool for tuning pianos, is available for a whopping £999.
Scottish Sun
19-05-2025
- Scottish Sun
Google offers secret VIP ‘protection mode' on millions of mobiles for free – it's meant for celebs to avoid being hacked
MILLIONS of phone owners can take advantage of a special "protection" mode used by VIPs to avoid being hacked. It's called Advanced Protection and anyone can use it for free – though it's built for celebs, politicians, and other important figures. 4 A more powerful Advanced Protection mode is coming to your Android phone Protection features were first launched in 2017, but the system has been upgraded in the new Android 16 update. It has special tricks like preventing your phone from being hacked by a physical cable, and using AI to detect scam call and text conversations live as they're happening. The feature activates a long list of hardcore security measures designed to boost your security and dodge scams. "Android 16 enhances and expands the Advanced Protection features that Google first launched in 2017," said Google's Stella Loh. "Making it simple to turn on an array of robust device security features." Stella, who works on the Android team, added: "Whether you're a public figure or just want the best of Android's powerful security features, you can turn on Advanced Protection for peace of mind that you're protected against the most sophisticated threats." WHAT IS GOOGLE'S ADVANCED PROTECTION PROGRAM? Google is the company behind the Android software that powers billions of phones around the world. And there's a special feature called the Advanced Protection. Google says that this serves up its "strongest protections against targeted attacks". "Advanced Protection ensures all of Android's highest security features are enabled and are seamlessly working together to safeguard you against online attacks, harmful apps, and data risks," Google explained. Deepfakes more 'sophisticated' and dangerous than ever as AI expert warns of six upgrades that let them trick your eyes To get all the latest protections, you'll need Android 16. That's currently out in beta version, which you can try for free today. Or you can wait for a full release, which may take several months to turn up on your mobile. GOOGLE'S ADVANCED PROTECTION PERKS AND HOW TO TURN ON Once you've got the latest Android update, go into Settings. 4 You'll be able to unlock VIP-level protections in an instant HOW TO UPDATE YOUR ANDROID PHONE Get the latest upgrades... Updating your Android phone is extremely important. For a start, it means you'll get fancy new features to make your phone better. But updates often include fixes that can repair security problems – or help you to stay safe from crooks. You can check what software version you have by going into Settings > About Phone > Android Version. And if you want to update, you can just go to Settings > System > Software Update. Note that your Android phone will probably have worse battery life in the days following an update – but it should get better. Picture Credit: Google Then go to Settings > Google > Personal & Device Safety > Advanced Protection > Device Protection. From there, you'll be able to see a list of all of the features that are activated once you toggle the setting on. For instance, there's a Theft Detection Lock that means your phone automatically locks itself if it detects "suspicious activity indicative of theft". Your phone will also lock itself if it goes offline for a prolonged period. 4 Live phone conversations can now be analysed for potential scams thanks to a new AI feature Credit: Google ADVANCED PROTECTION – GOOGLE'S WORD ON IT Here's what Google says Advanced Protection serves up... Best-in-class protection, minimal disruption: Advanced Protection gives users the option to equip their devices with Android's most effective security features for proactive defense, with a user-friendly and low-friction experience. Advanced Protection gives users the option to equip their devices with Android's most effective security features for proactive defense, with a user-friendly and low-friction experience. Easy activation: Advanced Protection makes security easy and accessible. You don't need to be a security expert to benefit from enhanced security. Advanced Protection makes security easy and accessible. You don't need to be a security expert to benefit from enhanced security. Defense-in-depth: Once a user turns on Advanced Protection, the system prevents accidental or malicious disablement of the individual security features under the Advanced Protection umbrella. This reflects a "defense-in-depth" strategy, where multiple security layers work together. Once a user turns on Advanced Protection, the system prevents accidental or malicious disablement of the individual security features under the Advanced Protection umbrella. This reflects a "defense-in-depth" strategy, where multiple security layers work together. Seamless security integration with apps: Advanced Protection acts as a single control point that enables important security settings across many of your favorite Google apps, including Chrome, Google Message, and Phone by Google. Advanced Protection will also incorporate third-party applications that choose to integrate in the future. Picture Credit: Google There's a USB Protection that prevents "physical attacks" using your phone's charging port. Safe Browsing modes block dangerous websites for you. And there are special AI-powered scam detection tools for both phone calls and text messages that flag up if you're being swindled in real-time. The feature also blocks you from connecting to outdated 2G phone networks, and won't automatically reconnect to Wi-Fi networks "known to be insecure" either. 4 You can also use Google Messages to expose dodgy texts courtesy of AI Credit: Google GOOGLE'S 'GOLDEN RULES' FOR AVOIDING SCAMS Here are the official Google "golden rules #1 – Slow it down Scams are often designed to create a sense of urgency. Take time to ask questions and think it through. #2 – Spot check Do your research to double check the details you are getting. Does what they're telling you make sense? #3 – Stop! Don't send No reputable person or agency will ever demand payment or your personal information on the spot. Picture Credit: Google / The Sun Some of the features won't arrive until "later this year", according to Google.
