Security on our Android devices is a top priority. In a world where the smartphone has become a central part of our daily lives: we use it not only to communicate, but also to work, check financial data, shop, store memories, or even control smart devices at home. Therefore, it is essential to adopt measures that allow us to Improve the security of your Android economically, combining internal settings, key applications, and habits that will protect both your privacy and your personal data from increasingly sophisticated threats.
Why is it crucial to protect your Android?
The massive popularization of the Android operating system has brought with it greater exposure to Threats such as malware, phishing, spy apps, or the exploitation of insecure networksCybercriminals are constantly looking for ways to compromise phones to steal information, impersonate people, or gain access to bank accounts. Furthermore, mobile internet access is increasing every year, making it essential to adopt a comprehensive security strategy that covers everything from the use of apps to the user's own behavior.
Protecting your phone isn't just a matter of installing an antivirus. Digital security is the result of combining different levels of protectionFrom basic settings to advanced tools for password management, protection against theft or attacks, and responsible use of networks and applications. And all of this is possible. without the need for large investments.
Essential settings to strengthen security on Android
Before installing additional applications, take advantage of all the native security options that Android makes available to you.Many users are unaware that it's possible to secure their device by applying simple internal settings and establishing routines that are part of cybersecurity best practices.
- Secure Screen Lock: Activate a strong unlock method. Recommended methods include a fingerprint, advanced facial recognition, a 6-digit PIN, or a strong password. Avoid simple patterns or birthdates. Access Settings> Security> Screen lock and choose the most convenient method. This is your first barrier against theft or unauthorized access.
- Enable data encryption: From Settings > Security > Encryption & Credentials You can activate encryption to protect all the files on your phone from prying eyes, making it impossible to access the data even if the device falls into the wrong hands.
- Set up auto lock: Set a timer so your device locks automatically after a period of inactivity. This will minimize the amount of time you're exposed to when you leave your phone unattended.
- Update your system and apps frequently: Regular updates fix vulnerabilities that can be an entry point for cybercriminals. Check from Settings > System > Updates for the system and from Google Play to keep all your apps up to date. Also, enable automatic updates for added peace of mind.
- Activate Google Play Protect: This service integrated into the Play Store scans all downloaded apps for malicious behavior and alerts you to potential threats. Check that it's enabled by accessing the Play Store and looking for the section. Play Protect.
- Manage app permissions: Analyze what permissions you have granted to each app (Access to location, contacts, microphone, etc.). Since Settings > Apps > Permissions You can revoke those that are not justified.
- Uninstall unnecessary apps and extensions: The more apps you have, the larger the attack surface. Delete the ones you don't use and keep only the essentials.
Backups: the foundation for not losing anything important
A key aspect for the protection of your information is make regular backups of your dataThis will allow you to recover important photos, messages, contacts, or files in the event of theft, damage, or loss, as well as after a malware or ransomware attack.
- Cloud backup with Google: From Settings > Google > Backup You can enable automatic backup of your contacts, settings, photos, messages, and apps to Google Drive.
- To save your images and videos, set Google Photos to automatically back up and make sure that only the folders you really want to store are uploaded.
- Remember to also export your contacts using the app Contacts, Settings > Export.
- Don't forget to make backups of your WhatsApp and SMS conversations (especially useful to use apps like SMS Backup & Restore for messages).
Access control: protect your personal information and sensitive apps
Protecting general access to your phone is essential, but so is putting an extra barrier against apps that contain especially sensitive information, such as banking, email, or private messaging apps.
- Lock apps with password/biometrics: Many apps (banking, social media, messaging) already include their own locking options. Otherwise, you can use tools like App Lock, Norton App Lock, or similar to lock WhatsApp, Gallery, or your banking app using a PIN, pattern, or fingerprint. Norton App Lock, for example, offers extra security without ads or suspicious permissions.
- Encryption of files and documents: If you frequently store important documents, consider apps like Cryptomator to encrypt folders before uploading them to the cloud.
- Set up Find My Device: Google offers this powerful tool to remotely locate, lock, ring, or erase your device in case of loss or theft. You just need to activate Find my device en Settings> Security and make sure that location is active.
How to choose and install truly effective and affordable security apps
Not all security applications are created equal.Some can even install malware or spy on your activity. Therefore, it's key to choose recognized, audited, and, if possible, free or very low-cost tools with proven features. These are the areas where it's worth installing additional solutions:
Antivirus for Android: Real-Time Protection
Installing an antivirus can make a difference when browsing, downloading apps or files, and protecting you against new threats.One of the best free options is Bitdefender Antivirus Free:
- It offers real-time protection and automatic analysis against any threat.
- Detects and removes viruses, Trojans, ransomware, spyware, and potentially harmful applications.
- Battery consumption is minimal and requires no advanced configuration: just install, update, and perform periodic scans.
- Its engine has been evaluated by independent laboratories with malware detection rates exceeding 99%.
- Includes specific protection against threats in messaging apps and social networks.
Remember: Google Play Protect is a good foundation, but advanced antivirus adds additional layers of defense, proactive detection, web protection, and scanning features for suspicious attachments or links.
Password managers: protect your credentials and access them easily
Remembering strong passwords is becoming increasingly difficult, and reusing them poses a huge risk.Password managers are your best allies for maintaining separate accounts, autofilling logins, and detecting leaked or vulnerable passwords. Two options stand out:
- Bitdefender Password Manager:
- Store and organize credentials in encrypted form (AES-256-CCM) and synchronized across all your devices.
- Automatically fills in login forms in apps and browsers, even if the website is untrusted.
- Easily import data from other managers like 1Password, LastPass, Dashlane, or directly from popular browsers.
- Supports protocols such as SHA512, BCRYPT and secure connections (WSS, HTTPS).
- Bitwarden: Free, open-source alternative audited by experts. Includes encrypted storage, weak or leaked password analysis, support for 2FA and passkeys (passwordless access keys), cross-platform sync, and secure autofill. Ideal for those seeking transparency and maximum privacy.
Additional apps recommended to protect your Android phone
- Brave Browser: Browser that blocks intrusive ads, trackers, and dangerous scripts by default, featuring advanced private browsing and constant updates. It significantly reduces your digital footprint and the risk of being tracked.
- Prey Anti-Theft: It allows you to remotely locate, lock, and erase devices in case of theft or loss. It includes advanced features such as location history, reports with photos of the suspected thief, and personalized messages to facilitate recovery.
- ProtonVPN: Access public or open networks securely with a VPN that encrypts all your traffic, even covering browsing on free or unreliable Wi-Fi networks. The free version has no data limit.
- Google Family Link: For families, it allows you to control device use by minors, set limits, view installed apps, screen time, and geolocation.
- Cryptomator: For local file encryption before uploading to the cloud and ensuring private access to sensitive documents.
App lock apps
- App Lock / Norton App Lock: Block access to sensitive apps using a PIN, pattern, or fingerprint.
- Featured Features: Automatic intruder capture (photograph if unlocking fails), stealth mode (does not reveal that the app is locked until access is attempted).
- Recommended for those who share a device, work from a mobile device, or are looking for an extra layer of app protection.
Setting up secure browsing and communication
Many attacks come through Suspicious SMS, emails or linksAndroid and apps like Gmail and Chrome offer native protection, but you should take certain precautions:
- Do not click on links in SMS or emails from unknown senders.Many phishing attacks begin this way, impersonating banks, stores, or well-known companies. If you have any questions, contact the institution directly.
- Enable two-step verification on sensitive accounts: So, even if they get your password, they'll need a second factor to log in. You can set this up for Google, Facebook, WhatsApp, and many other platforms.
- Use secure browsers and extensions that block suspicious scripts or pop-ups.
Permissions and Privacy: Control what you share
- Periodically review the permissions you have granted to each app: From Settings > Apps > PermissionsWhy does a flashlight need access to your contacts? Revoke any questionable permissions.
- Turn off unnecessary notifications: Notifications may include malicious links or provide private data. Manage from Settings > Apps > Notifications.
- Limit background location usage: You should only activate it in apps that strictly require it for functionality (maps, physical activity tracking, etc.).
Tips for the safe use of wireless connections and Wi-Fi networks
- Avoid connecting to open or public Wi-Fi networks (airports, cafes, plazas) for sensitive operations. If necessary, always use a reliable VPN like ProtonVPN.
- Turn off automatic connection to Wi-Fi networks to reduce the risk of connecting to a scam network.
- If you're on a public network, don't access online banking or enter sensitive passwords.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
- Don't download apps outside of Google Play: Installing APKs from unofficial websites is one of the main sources of malware infection. Google Play scans and removes most dangerous apps before they reach the user.
- Don't grant unnecessary permissions: If an app requests access to your camera, microphone, or contacts without a reason, deny it.
- Don't neglect updates: An outdated device is highly vulnerable. Schedule regular checks for both system and app updates.
- Don't use the same password for multiple accounts: A single filter can open the door to multiple services and accounts.
- Avoid storing passwords in unencrypted text files or notes.
Stay calm and follow these steps in case of a possible infection or theft
- Disconnect from the network and delete the suspicious app immediately.
- If you've been the victim of an attack, change your primary account passwords from a secure device.
- Report the loss or theft to your carrier to block the IMEI and request remote blocking of the device with Find my device.
- Restore a recent backup after removing any threats.
Emergency information and extra protection features
- Add emergency information to the lock screen: From Settings > Security > Emergency Information You can add contacts, allergies, or useful instructions in case of accident or loss.
- Share your device's IMEI with trusted people: It is essential to block or locate the phone in case of theft.
- Set up data exposure alerts: Apps like Bitdefender or password managers can alert you if your email or password has been part of a massive breach.
- Enable automatic SMS and WhatsApp backup: This way you will protect your communications from any problem.
Recommendations for businesses and families
- Business: Tools like Prey Business enable mobile fleet management, movement history monitoring, user roles, and geofences with automatic alerts.
- Families: Google Family Link offers parental controls, screen limits, app controls, and real-time location tracking for children's devices.
Adopt all of these settings, practices and applications will allow you to transform your Android phone into a true digital fortress, without the need for large investments or technical complexities. The key is in combine responsible habits, take advantage of native security options, and carefully choose additional protection tools. This way, you can enjoy mobile technology with complete peace of mind, knowing that your data, identity, and privacy are protected against both the most common and most advanced threats. Don't put off security: start today and make these recommendations part of your digital routine.