Security is more important than ever for Android apps

During the end of Google I/O, engineers offered up some basic tips so that developers can safeguard their apps, and therefore users, against malware attack. The session in which the announcements were made was about Android security and privacy, and during it Android security engineer Jon Larimer talked about the growing security concerns and risks that both app developers and customers are experiencing at the moment. He made it clear that apps should be respecting the data on Android devices, as people do not tend to like giving out personal information to strangers.

Larimer warned listeners that every part of an app could potentially be used to access personal data, if the user is not protecting themselves in the right way. Everyone who uses apps should think about this, malware attacks can take place when you are not even using your Android app, instead playing foxy bingo or writing documents on your computer. This can happen when a security vulnerability in an app allows others to access your information.

However, apps do not have to make their users vulnerable. In fact, Larimer said that it can actually be easier for a developer to write an Android app that is secure, rather than one that is insecure. He told the audience that developer account security should be maintained, which would mean that your apps are not being published by other people on your behalf. Developers should also be using Google Authenticator, so that everything can be kept secure under two-factor authentication. According to Google engineers, developers should upload a privacy policy for their app. This will ensure that users are made aware of how their data will be used. The safeguarding of information is very important and if we all work together, then there is a chance that we can protect ourselves and those around us from malware attack.