All Android owners warn of a scary “app danger” that you must avoid

Make sure you don’t accidentally download questionable apps from the Google Play Store.

It could cost you in terms of privacy – or even real money.

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Every month, dozens of Android apps are exposed as dangerous, fraudulent, or both.

Earlier this year, up to 75 apps were found to be filled with spammy “adware” that flooded phones with ads.

There’s no truly surefire way to guarantee you won’t be hacked — but cyber experts say you can increase your chances of avoiding danger.

“Stay in native app stores and stay away from third-party app stores,” warned cybersecurity giant Kaspersky.

“As a rule of thumb, you should stick to the Apple, Google Play, or Microsoft stores.

“Even in the official stores, you should read app reviews and check trusted websites for more information.”

Shady apps

This is especially a problem on Android phones as there are many alternative app stores.

The official Android option is called the Play Store – and is owned and operated by Google.

Using other app stores can be a big risk, as well as downloading .apk app files from websites on the internet.

Kaspersky says you should be very careful when downloading apps from places outside of the Google Play Store.

“Never download apps without first verifying their security,” Kaspersky said.

“Most phones have settings that allow you to check all apps from unknown sources before downloading them.

“However, always search and read reviews to prevent suspicious apps on your device.”

Nowhere is safe

Of course, apps in the Google Play Store are not always secure either.

The Sun often reports on rogue apps sneaking into the store without being detected.

And even if Google bans these apps from the Play Store – as it often does – they might still be lurking on your Android phone if you’ve already downloaded them.

So be sure to pay attention to official warnings about dangerous apps.

It’s also worth checking your phone regularly to see if you can delete old apps.

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