Before downloading any app on your smartphone, consider the following precautions:
- Research the app. Look for independently written reviews of the app and read the descriptions.
- Check the permissions. Questions should be asked about how much access the app has to data, including camera or microphone.
- Use trusted sources or official app stores. Check to make sure the URL of the website or source of the app is legitimate.
- Scan the app with security software. Consider downloading a mobile security program to scan all apps for malware.
- Make sure the app is up-to-date. Find out its supported operating system and ensure it is installed for better security.