This question is really a basic for the sake of device security, but still, I need opinion from you guys. And maybe some recommendations?
R. Hansen | Nexus 4 | noob
No, it's just a waste of space.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk 2
I have never needed it.. I download/install things from allot of sites too.
I wouldn't worry about it myself.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda premium
Agreed with the above, its not necessary. Provided you are careful with what you download and install you'll have no issues.
Sent from my Nexus 4
Is it even possible to get a virus from installing an app
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
mattoaida said:
Is it even possible to get a virus from installing an app
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, but it's pretty rare
An AntiVirus App will just slow down your phone I think.
rusak2 said:
An AntiVirus App will just slow down your phone I think.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And waste an already limited space.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda premium
So I sum up that nobody use antivirus here. Okay then, I guess it is enough for me I guess
R. Hansen | Nexus 4 | noob
Android is based on unix/linux, this is not windows. No need for an antivirus, it's just a waste of space and RAM.
"Riddle me this, Riddle me that."
They wouldn't find the in built NSA/CIA stuff anyway. In fact they would probably add more snoopware.
I installed avg antivirus. Pretty happy with it
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda premium
I wouldn't see it as necessary if you're a crack flasher or swap ROMs often.
if you are a noob, yes use 3 antivirus at the same time, lol
most play store apps are virus itself,, full of ads, crapware,
use greenefy to put them down and adaway
if you want your n4 to behave like a S3 S4 sony htc lg, then put antivirus to make it slow and lag
I had the same question so i set to answer it myself.
I installed a free anti virus one of the best,, AVG/Avast was it? I cant remember. I then went and pulled out a keylogger version of swiftkey. What it does is it send everything i type passwords and all to a remote server.
I scanned the apk and i scanned the folder it was installed to and then scanned the entire phone.
It was deemed clean and safe.
The hack to insert the keylogger code is easy to reproduce and doesnt mar the app's digital signature. It was malicious but could nt be caught.
I uninstalled the "anti virus" and went on with my life.
I know and understand that you most probably won't ever feel the need of an antivirus from normal usage of your mobile device, but the numbers show all over the place that there is an epidemic of malware on android, just check the following articles, some of them may be biased since they are coming from a an antivirus seller, but there is no denying that the threat exists and if you care about your privacy, having a basic antivirus/antimalware, app permission control and the use of some sort of anonymity protection (OpenVPN, TOR, etc) is a necessity to avoid having your data put on the internet by every free game or stupid free app out there.
Check all these out for example:
http://techcrunch.com/2013/04/15/ma...ing-around-32-8m-android-devices-report-says/
http://techcrunch.com/2013/03/07/f-...of-all-mobile-malware-in-2012-96-in-q4-alone/
https://www.lookout.com/resources/reports/state-of-mobile-security-2012
https://blog.lookout.com/blog/2012/12/13/2013-mobile-threat-predictions/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_virus
I will probably strike most of you as a crazy, tinfoil-hat-wearing paranoid but the internet is a scary place...
Kasnar said:
I know and understand that you most probably won't ever feel the need of an antivirus from normal usage of your mobile device, but the numbers show all over the place that there is an epidemic of malware on android, just check the following articles, some of them may be biased since they are coming from a an antivirus seller, but there is no denying that the threat exists and if you care about your privacy, having a basic antivirus/antimalware, app permission control and the use of some sort of anonymity protection (OpenVPN, TOR, etc) is a necessity to avoid having your data put on the internet by every free game or stupid free app out there.
Check all these out for example:
http://techcrunch.com/2013/04/15/ma...ing-around-32-8m-android-devices-report-says/
http://techcrunch.com/2013/03/07/f-...of-all-mobile-malware-in-2012-96-in-q4-alone/
https://www.lookout.com/resources/reports/state-of-mobile-security-2012
https://blog.lookout.com/blog/2012/12/13/2013-mobile-threat-predictions/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_virus
I will probably strike most of you as a crazy, tinfoil-hat-wearing paranoid but the internet is a scary place...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're not crazy... I was looking at it from the shoes of the person asking. If someone has to ask, then they are somewhat new and more susceptible to clicking on things that shouldn't be clicked. Like my grandma clicking a "YOU HAVE A VIRUS, CLICK HERE TO CLEAN" pop-up. IMHO, most responses were opinions based on that specific person's usage/knowledge without considering the source. And I can agree.. it's not needed if you know what you're doing. Since you asked the question, I say get something..
How much porn do you download?
Sent from my Nexus 4 using muh freedoms
ryohansen said:
This question is really a basic for the sake of device security, but still, I need opinion from you guys. And maybe some recommendations?
R. Hansen | Nexus 4 | noob
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's not really needed. I used it for a but but never needed it.
If you still want one though. Lookout is decent.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda premium
Beerad875 said:
How much porn do you download?
Sent from my Nexus 4 using muh freedoms
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just enough. *wink*
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk 2
Related
Hi!
Does anybody know what this battery update is. I got it as an update and to unlock the full features, I had to pay 3€per month!
I immediately unistalled this.
Is it spam? Virus!
Best regards
Sent from my GT-N7000 using Tapatalk
What are you referring to? No link.
It sounds suspicious though.
It came like a system update and then it installed a battery app that monitored my battery behavior and wanted me to pay 3€ per month ;-)
This is the first time I see something like this on my android phones!?
Sent from my GT-N7000 using Tapatalk
I've never heard of anything like that. It does sound very suspicious.
As you say, probably scareware/malware.
Now I have to look for an app to remove what ever is doing this ;-)
Sent from my GT-N7000 using Tapatalk
It is probably related to an app you have already installed. Go through any apps you aren't sure are from trusted sources/devs.
Thanks for the tip, I will check my apps. All my apps are from market place, its sad if we cannot trust the market?
Regards
Sent from my GT-N7000 using Tapatalk
The sad thing is mate you can't trust the market. You have to be careful what your installing!
Always check what permissions needs the app you are downloading depends of the type you dl it should need the right permissions. So lets say you dl a game and it needs permission for your contacts and call services then it is up to you to dl it I would never. And as long the developers have no other way to get cash they implant ofc in their apps some advertises so be carefully all the time.
And market is like Facebook a no money platform that helps people to find things, but it moment check what it provides, it is on the user to report bad apps. So many people abuse that.
Sent from my GT-N7000 using XDA App
Thanks a lot, I will try to be careful, and read before accepting anything this time.
Regards
Sent from my GT-N7000 using Tapatalk
Are you serious?
Lol that's one of the scammiest things I've ever heard of.
If I were you I'd factory reset, and in future only install well reviewed and tested apps.
Sent from my GT-N7000 using Tapatalk
As a rule of thumb, I don't click on any links from any app, except the browser
I use a program that lets you assign permissions to any app. Anything that I install that I don't think needs to access contacts, location etc, I just block.
It has a side benefit of blocking the stupid ads in the apps also.
Try to use "LBE privacy guard" from the market its free!
NEED ROOT!
With this app u can control every app u installed give and take permissions!
https://market.android.com/details?id=com.lbe.security.lite&feature=search_result#?t=W251bGwsMSwxLDEsImNvbS5sYmUuc2VjdXJpdHkubGl0ZSJd
I had one of these updates in my notification menu. Never installed it though.
Sent from my GT-N7000 using XDA App
I get this when I play certain games.
its just an in game advert made to look official which links to an app in the market.
It reads something like " You have two Battery updates available"
Download addon detektor then you can see whats causing the the push ad
And remove that battery thingy its probably the one that steals your contacts for spam
MikeFRG said:
Try to use "LBE privacy guard" from the market its free!
With this app u can control every app u installed give and take permissions!
https://market.android.com/details?id=com.lbe.security.lite&feature=search_result#?t=W251bGwsMSwxLDEsImNvbS5sYmUuc2VjdXJpdHkubGl0ZSJd
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It requires root for full features.
equalness said:
Hi!
Does anybody know what this battery update is. I got it as an update and to unlock the full features, I had to pay 3€per month!
I immediately unistalled this.
Is it spam? Virus!
Best regards
Sent from my GT-N7000 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately you have been hit by a 'Scareware' attack.
As Android is becoming more popular and unlike Apple which has tighter control the Android OS is much more open to attacks such as this.
You really have to be on your guard watching for these malicious attacks.
Read the comments from PCWorld and 2Viruses for a greater explanation.
Does anybody run a anti virus scanner on their phone.. if so which one...
Sent from my X10 using xda app-developers app
I use Lookout sometimes
That said, as long as you check what permissions the apps you're installing are asking for, you're fine
I mean, an RPG game does not need access to your contacts or permissions to send SMS messages
The best antivirus in the end, is an observant end user
Sent from my PG06100
I use Comodo which I also use on my home computer. It does a lot more than just scan apps. I love it and its free.
Sent from my X10 using xda app-developers app
I use lookout and it works great for me. Scans everything i download and backs up contacts. Also has good locate and scream case you lose it and will save last location before your phone dies. But as Cnexus said being observant of what you download is your best protection. Hope this helps!
Sent from my PC36100 using xda app-developers app
CNexus said:
I use Lookout sometimes
That said, as long as you check what permissions the apps you're installing are asking for, you're fine
I mean, an RPG game does not need access to your contacts or permissions to send SMS messages
The best antivirus in the end, is an observant end user
Sent from my PG06100
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree %100 with the Observant end user.I've never used antivirus on my phone,just another app to lag it down,lol.
Diablo67 said:
I agree %100 with the Observant end user.I've never used antivirus on my phone,just another app to lag it down,lol.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just what I was thinking.. I only DL from the play store and here...
Sent from my X10 using xda app-developers app
Not advocating piracy, but if you pirate apps that have been cracked then an AV is a good choice. But as the second post the best av is you paying attention to what the app accesses.
Sent from my Nexus 10 using xda app-developers app
Watch the permissions when you install and steer clear of skecthy sources.
I use web root secure anywhere. It has turned up some Trojans in some ROMs which kind of blew me away. I thought everything on xda was safe.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
Has anyone actually gotten a virus on android?
Sent from my T.A.R.D.I.S
motoelliot said:
Has anyone actually gotten a virus on android?
Sent from my T.A.R.D.I.S
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well to begin with, the fact that android is based on Linux makes it even harder to exploit because of the whole permissions structure
On top of that you have the Android app permissions system and you have something very difficult to exploit in itself....I've never gotten one, but I've heard of malicious apps getting released (on the play store) back in the baby stages of Android (when froyo was just out) that used the froyo rooting exploits to bypass security checks and mess with the stuff on your phone.
But other than that, I've never heard of a any virus/exploit/targeted attack on android devices
The latest Android virus that I know of is BadNews.. It hit a few apps a few days ago, in the google play store. I believe it infected something like 2 Million phones.
So saying "I just get them from Google Play store" doesn't keep you safe.. Because apps are not tested before they hit the play store, and most of the android virus hit via the play store.
And if you have never heard of a virus that targets the Android, it's because you haven't taken the time to actually see if any actually exist. Linux is not hard to exploit, and neither is Android.
CNexus said:
I use Lookout sometimes
That said, as long as you check what permissions the apps you're installing are asking for, you're fine
I mean, an RPG game does not need access to your contacts or permissions to send SMS messages
The best antivirus in the end, is an observant end user
Sent from my PG06100
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Completely agree on that the best anti virus is yourself. I don't even use one on my computers because most viruses mask themselves as anti virus programs.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda app-developers app
CNexus said:
Well to begin with, the fact that android is based on Linux makes it even harder to exploit because of the whole permissions structure
On top of that you have the Android app permissions system and you have something very difficult to exploit in itself....I've never gotten one, but I've heard of malicious apps getting released (on the play store) back in the baby stages of Android (when froyo was just out) that used the froyo rooting exploits to bypass security checks and mess with the stuff on your phone.
But other than that, I've never heard of a any virus/exploit/targeted attack on android devices
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So where good on jellybean right? I dont run any anti-virus, same reason as Diablo..
souleman said:
And if you have never heard of a virus that targets the Android, it's because you haven't taken the time to actually see if any actually exist. Linux is not hard to exploit, and neither is Android.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Android is based on Linux. And if you say Linux is not hard to exploit, I suggest you do some reading yourself.
Like the title. Do I need an antivirus or am I safe as long as apps are from google store.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using XDA Premium HD app
I've never bothered. But I read the comments before installing anything. Usually will say if there's anything up with the app. Like push ads. Tho I use ad-away...so I don't usually get those anyway.
Sent from my cell phone telephone....
I use Avast! for both my S3 & N7. I prefer to protect my investments. Comments aren't always truthful & not all apps, from play store or otherwise, are safe.
Google play is not safe as there are few apps which take your phone details like contacts and send online without your permission ..i use LBE privacy guard on my Ace which can block permission for stupid apps to access ur important data ..I highly recommend that
Sent from my Ace using xda app-developers app
The only antivirus you need is your own brain.
If an app looks dodgy to you, chances are it probably is. If you're downloading APK's from some Ukranian website, do it at your own risk. For the most part, you should be able to tell which apps are secure while browsing through the market. Just have some common sense when choosing an APK to install. Been on Android for years and never had a single virus over several devices.
As with my computers...if I get a virus I get a virus....wipe...install...back to business. That's me anyway. If you feel better with one.....get one!
Sent from my cell phone telephone....
kj2112 said:
As with my computers...if I get a virus I get a virus....wipe...install...back to business. That's me anyway. If you feel better with one.....get one!
Sent from my cell phone telephone....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah. I build n mode my PC all the time and never run antivirus too but I do run a firewall. Guess my question should have been. Do I need a firewall?
Sent from my Nexus 7 using XDA Premium HD app
I've messed with my phones a lot....never got a virus. That I know of. At home I'm thru my router...its firewalled....but I don't see anyone hacking into my phone either way. My phone gets silly and I just reflash.
Sent from my cell phone telephone....
k29er said:
Ah. I build n mode my PC all the time and never run antivirus too but I do run a firewall. Guess my question should have been. Do I need a firewall?
Sent from my Nexus 7 using XDA Premium HD app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You don't need a firewall but it's nice to have. I use it to block apps which don't really need internet access yet have it for some reason anyway.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk 2
Hack a smartphone via conventional routes, it is now a has been. Evidence, a team of researchers from Germany's University of Erlangen-Nurember found a method to access information stored in the memory (RAM) of an Android smartphone.
Since 2011, it is possible to encrypt data on Android, or both researchers found a way to slow encryption RAM thanks to the cold. Simply put the smartphone to a temperature below - 15 ° C, restart the phone, then enter the mode "fastboot". It is at this point comes into play software kit of two researchers to retrieve data remained in memory including decryption keys.
Tests were performed on the Galaxy Nexus and would have to hand over lists of contacts, pictures, passwords, Wi-Fi, calendar appointments, e-mails, etc..
No matter what type of technology we use to protect our mobile devices, the chances of getting hacked are still there.
For your information, the software in question is called Frost (Forensic Recovery of Scrambled Telephones).
Yep keep your eyes open for phone thieves extra vigilance for those carrying a freezer .
jje
PS expect a post can i root my phone with the freezer exploit .
Confirmed working
Sent by - iGloo (Eskimo hackers collective)
nhariamine said:
Hack a smartphone via conventional routes, it is now has been.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Use the force you must, Luke.
So.... can I root my phone with the freeze exploit??
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2
AW: [NEWS] BEWARE ! Android Smartphones Hack by APP called : FROST
disclaimernotice said:
Use the force you must, Luke.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Usw the Frost you must
Sent from my GT-I9300 using xda app-developers app
The freezer slows the elektrons so the memory holds on to its date 4-5 secs longer. So thats a total of 6-7 seconds. Enough time to extract.
Just what i read in the newspaper for your info.
Kind regards,
Thomas
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Premium XDA-developers app
Read this on some blog..
A funny comment..
Yet another reason to use the iPhone!
--------- Indeed since that doesn’t need any freezing to bypass the lock, just a few swift motions.
Good to know, but correct me if I'm wrong but Samsung roms don't have fastboot installed, so this won't really affect is.
Sent from my GT-I9300 using xda premium
seriously? nobody would root their phones using a freezer
Sent from my supercharged :tank:
I did, my phone is now the coolest out there.
Sent from my GT-I9300 using xda app-developers app
pricey2009 said:
I did, my phone is now the coolest out there.
Sent from my GT-I9300 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
cool story bro
Sent from my supercharged :tank:
Im literally laughing my ass off
A frozen phone really is a cool story.
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2
I guess this gives "frozt bites" a whole new definition
Theshawty said:
So.... can I root my phone with the freeze exploit??
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hehe good idea
lets test it :laugh::laugh:
So now instead of just normal criminals I also have to look out for Mr Freeze?
htcsnap93 said:
The freezer slows the elektrons so the memory holds on to its date 4-5 secs longer. So thats a total of 6-7 seconds. Enough time to extract.
Just what i read in the newspaper for your info.
Kind regards,
Thomas
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Premium XDA-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're absolutely right, and therefore, to SLOW everything down, you have the cooling system on PC, laptop, and even on the dam*** sony Gaystation, which is aimed on two things:
1. to accumulate dust inside;
2. to make the games "jumping" from frame to frame and to slow down any software.
And to have absolutely slow machine, most of the supecomputers, like Cray, are cooled down by the liquid nitrogen.
One final advise: please change newspaper you read from Smurfs Weekly to Gummi Bears, they are more techie.
i read something with apk
i dont know how to do that
track 1 said:
i read something with apk
i dont know how to do that
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Man, you have a long way to go...
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda premium
track 1 said:
i read something with apk
i dont know how to do that
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Adaway isn`t gone, get it here https://code.google.com/p/ad-away/ and please learn how to use Google and most of all READ.
Or use adfree. (need root)
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda premium
Unjustable said:
Or use adfree. (need root)
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Adblockers always need root afaik.
Just google it and download an apk!
gee2012 said:
Adblockers always need root afaik.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think adaway or some other ad blocker worked without root for ads over WiFi. For some reason though none of the adblockers I've tried work over mobile data for me which is incredibly annoying since I haven't had an ad (on my phone or PC) in years pretty much.
track 1 said:
i read something with apk
i dont know how to do that
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i don't think you are familiar with installing apk's to your phone. I just want to mention that google would have solved your problem much faster . And there would be less haters around
I will explain it to you, as simple as possible.
1. Go to google and search for ad away . apk file. For example i found this link for german users: http://www.chip.de/downloads/AdAway-Android-App_56011287.html
2. Connect your Phone to your PC and move the .apk file to your phone(sdcard). Other options are using a Cloud like Dropbox etc.
3. Go to your settings -> security -> and select the option unknown source or whatever it is called in english. ( Installing from unknown source or something)
4. Go into PlayStore and load a file manager like Astro-Filemanager
5. after installing a filemanager, open it and go to the path you have moved your .apk file to... and select it
6. Press install and have fun with it
Hope i could help.
indoh said:
i don't think you are familiar with installing apk's to your phone. I just want to mention that google would have solved your problem much faster . And there would be less haters around
I will explain it to you, as simple as possible.
1. Go to google and search for ad away . apk file. For example i found this link for german users: http://www.chip.de/downloads/AdAway-Android-App_56011287.html
2. Connect your Phone to your PC and move the .apk file to your phone(sdcard). Other options are using a Cloud like Dropbox etc.
3. Go to your settings -> security -> and select the option unknown source or whatever it is called in english. ( Installing from unknown source or something)
4. Go into PlayStore and load a file manager like Astro-Filemanager
5. after installing a filemanager, open it and go to the path you have moved your .apk file to... and select it
6. Press install and have fun with it
Hope i could help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you are a lifesaver
Pay for apps, don't screw over your developers.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
AW: whats a good ad blocker now ad away is gone
track 1 said:
you are a lifesaver
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
feel free to pm me if you need help in any other case.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
chrisrozon said:
Pay for apps, don't screw over your developers.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You misunderstood, Adaway was free anyway but was removed from the Play Store for some reason. It's not piracy at all.
Nigeldg said:
You misunderstood, Adaway was free anyway but was removed from the Play Store for some reason. It's not piracy at all.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, YOU misunderstood. Ads equals revenue for the developer, it's the tradeoff you get for free apps.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
chrisrozon said:
Sorry, YOU misunderstood. Ads equals revenue for the developer, it's the tradeoff you get for free apps.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's bs. It's our free choice, if we want to look at ads or not. Maybe we should also remove the "channel change" button from our TV remotes, so we cann not switch the channel during ads?!
greg17477 said:
That's bs. It's our free choice, if we want to look at ads or not. Maybe we should also remove the "channel change" button from our TV remotes, so we cann not switch the channel during ads?!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The choice is watch ads on a free app, and or buy the paid version of it. Blocking ads means eventually there won't be any free apps, since the devs will be forced to charge for them all.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
Not if you don't click on them, which the vast majority of people don't anyway.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
Ad away is a free app. Some devs don't want money. Hard to give money to people who don't want your moola.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda premium
Devs who don't want payment don't have adds in their apps.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
chrisrozon said:
Devs who don't want payment don't have adds in their apps.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Untrue. Some Devs make only one app with ads. And I'd gladly purchase a full version but there isn't one. So I have the choice of looking at stupid annoying ads or blocking them... If a Dev wants payment, offer ad free version. Which most devs do...with additional features. This is the way to do it.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda premium
What is with the sudden hate towards ad blockers now that Google has said something about them? There is a way to block people using ad blockers from launching an app and I've only seen one Dev do it, so obviously they don't care enough about that precious 0.02 a user to take actions to stop ad blockers
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk 2