With the ever-growing popularity of mobile apps, it’s easy to become complacent about their security. However, new research has shown that consumers need to remain aware of the dangers these apps pose because, in 2021, app downloads rapidly escalated as revealed by gravitee.io, following data compiled from other sources.
One of the main concerns for app users is security and privacy risks. With more than 2.6 million apps available on Google Play Store alone, it can be hard to know which ones are safe to download. And, even if an app has been vetted and is considered safe, there’s no guarantee that it won’t be compromised at a later date.
The truth is that many mobile apps collect data about consumers without their knowledge or consent. This data can be used for various reasons, such as targeted advertising or selling to third-party companies.
The Dangers of Mobile Apps
Mobile apps can pose various dangers to consumers, and consumers need to be aware of these security dangers to protect themselves against them. Some of the risks include:
• Security and Privacy Risks
One of the main concerns for app users is security and privacy risks. With more than one million apps available on Google Play Store alone, it can be hard to know which ones are safe to download.
Many mobile apps collect data about consumers without their knowledge or consent. This data can be used for various reasons, such as targeted advertising or selling to third-party companies.
To avoid security and privacy risks, consumers should always read the user license agreements (ULAs) before downloading an app from Google Play Store. In addition, they need to check their devices for viruses and malware regularly.
• Data Theft
Another danger of using mobile apps is data theft. Malicious apps can steal personal information, such as passwords, contact lists, and credit card numbers. This information can be used to commit identity theft or financial fraud.
To protect themselves against data theft, consumers should not install any app they don’t trust. They should also regularly check their mobile devices for viruses and malware.
• Spam
In addition to stealing information, mobile apps can cause unwanted ads or spam that interrupt consumers’ everyday browsing experience. These ads are usually displayed as pop-ups, banners, coupons, or even text messages on the lock screen of a consumer’s device.
Some ads even require the user to take some action, such as clicking on a link or installing an app, before being removed.
To avoid spam, consumers should only install apps from trusted sources and disable notifications for apps that they don’t need. They should also check their devices for viruses and malware.
• Battery Drain
Another problem with mobile apps is that they can drain a consumer’s battery. Many of the most popular apps, including Facebook and Twitter, are notorious for exhausting users’ batteries quickly because they run in the background regularly.
Consumers should turn off their phones when not using them to avoid wasting their battery power on apps running in the background. They can also install apps to help them save battery power.
• Data Overage Charges
Another issue that can arise from using mobile apps is data overage charges. Most of the time, these charges result from streaming video or music, downloading files, or using cellular data instead of a Wi-Fi connection.
To avoid data overage charges, consumers should use Wi-Fi and monitor their data usage whenever possible. They can also install an app that will help them keep track of their data usage.
• Targeted Advertising
One of the most common ways for third-party companies to use consumer data is through targeted advertising. This ad usually appears on social media platforms, such as Facebook, Twitter, Google Plus, or LinkedIn. They are based on gender, age, interests, or purchasing history.
To avoid targeted advertising, consumers can use ad blockers or privacy browsers. In addition, they should read the privacy policies of the websites and apps that they use to make sure that their data is not being shared with third-party companies.
• Identity Theft
Another danger of using mobile apps is identity theft. This occurs when someone steals a consumer’s personal information and commits fraud.
To protect themselves against identity theft, consumers should use strong passwords, install anti-virus software, and know which apps they download.
You should also review their credit report regularly to ensure no unauthorized charges.
Summary
Gravitee’s API management tool is a solution that is flexible and lightweight, well-equipped to provide assistance for organisations in being able to control and manage who, how and when the user can access their APIs.
As per their interactive app downloads webpage has shown, mobile app downloads have escalated to new heights in the past year and as the projected live download rates show, the number of app downloads will only continue to grow and develop even further in the future years to come
However, consumers need to be aware of the dangers of using mobile apps and take steps to protect themselves.
By being vigilant, they can avoid many security and privacy problems arising from installing and using apps frequently. They should also inspect their devices for viruses and malware regularly.
