A security expert has warned users to remove their outdated apps on their smartphones as soon as possible.
If the unused software stays for long in Android or iOS phones, the device is at risk of being compromised by hackers.
Security Expert Urges Users to Delete Two Kinds of Apps
Scam apps that are dwelling on Google Play Store and Apple App Store should be deleted as soon as possible.
In a report by The Sun, KnowBe4 security awareness advocate James McQuiggan recommends that users uninstall their unused apps the soonest time possible.
The cybersecurity professional highlights the need to delete them because they take up so much space on your device. What's worse is that you are being spied on without your knowledge.
"It's a good idea to only install apps from reputable sources like the Google Play store or Apple's App Store," McQuiggan says.
He also adds that users are always facing the risk of getting malware on their handsets once the app installation begins. A remote hacker can steal your personal data stored in your phone and it might damage your device.
Because of this, McQuiggan points out that people should not always be kind when giving app permissions. Unnecessary permissions can access your mic, camera, and even your current location.
For example, if a notification appears on the screen where an app wants to access your microphone without any explanation, it's definitely a red flag you need to quickly avoid.
McQuiggan says that it's always important to consider the function of the app and what are the requirements for this purpose.
The expert adds that you need to thoroughly add the permissions asked by social media apps since these are usually the scam apps that can have access to your contacts.
He recommends users manually search for the identity of the people in the contacts without permitting the app to access the list. This way, you're not only protecting yourself but also your friends from fraudsters.
Related Article: Beware iPhone Users: QuaDream Hackers Using Calendar Invites to Spread Spyware
Uninstall These Apps Right Now
A few weeks ago, News Nation Now reported that Pradeo, a cybersecurity company, encouraged users to remove File Manager and File Recovery & Data Recovery.
According to the firm, these apps could work without user interaction. Of course, they are operated by remote hackers who silently steal your data. Pradeo said that the servers allegedly came from China.
Pradeo added that only one developer created these two apps. At that time, the apps already had 1.5 million downloads before they were removed by Google.
This is good news for people who want to download these apps. If they are still existing on your iPhone or Android device, immediately delete them to avoid any kind of fraud.
Pradeo noted that people should always read the reviews of the app before they install it. They should also pay attention to the app permissions.
