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New to smartphones, I was just wondering do I need an antivirus for my Galaxy Note? And if the answer is yes, what do you guys recommend?
All you need to know about this subject is right here.
Regards,
Dave
foxmeister said:
All you need to know about this subject is right here.
Regards,
Dave
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's exactly the article I read that made me ask the question
Since it came from google, the manufacturer of android, I think they would try to protect the integrity of their product, so I am not sure....
Checkout these articles: http://www.neowin.net/news/free-android-anti-virus-products-virtually-useless - http://www.neowin.net/news/wp7-avg-antivirus-app-is-possibly-spyware
I personally feel Google trying to do their down things does allow malware to get in once a while and need to improve Android security. I am more worried with the privacy issue (Carrier IQ). I still feel there is a level of openness with Android, its not entire open source, but at least you can see something unlike some competing mobile os.
Personally I use AdFree (which does more than block ads since it block malware sites from loading, it basically adds IP blocklist to your /etc/hosts file, which you can also do manually) and LBE Privacy Guard (which seems to be a great concept allowing to deny permissions of apps, my only concern of it is being closed source, there is a big thread about it).
having an antivirus is useful. a few months ago my motorola atrix was having a bug where the screen would only light up when i first turned it on. if i locked it and then tried to unlock it, the screen would work, but the backlight wouldnt work.
i grabbed dr. web light, not expecting it to really do anything. ended up finding malware, and after removing the malware, screen backlight started working properly again.
on a phone like the galaxy note, theres more than enough processing power to run a background virus scanner without running out of puff, so i say, why not?
The answer to this question is really quite simple, it depends on this:
Do you carefully watch the permissions of apps you are about to install?
If your answer is: "yes, I carefully watch the permissions and don't install apps such as tetris which wants access to sms" then you can quite safely go without any anti malware software.
If your answer on the other hand is: "no, I just install interesting apps and quickly click through the permission page to start the download" then yes, you might benefit of software to protect your device.
The beauty of Android is that whatever app you are about to install INCLUDING malware states clearly what part of your device it is going to access. If people don't bother reading the permissions then a big part of fault is on them also. However this isn't really too well explained, especially for new users, so I assume a majority of users don't really understand WHY the permissions are shown before downloading an app. This is something Google could improve on in my opinion.
And lastly, the fact that apps coming to Apples app store are screened doesn't make it any more secure than Android. It just has people making the choices FOR you. If something well hidden is slipped past them, not a single user will know about the threat. Just as one app developer showed in public a few weeks ago and as a result got his developer status cancelled by Apple.
edit
Also a small note here. A virus is something that multiplies and spreads (weather it's bacteria or code doesn't matter). The malicious apps in the market are malware and spyware and because of this the word antivirus for Android isn't really correct. They don't stop viruses, they stop malicious apps.
edit 2
here's the link to the story of that Apple developer:
http://www.forbes.com/sites/andygre...per-program-for-proof-of-concept-exploit-app/
this just proves that app store isn't any more secure than Android market. It just has people who take a look at apps before they are approved, and as you can read, they are far from perfect.
How many of you guys use Antivirus?
Who here does not feel the need?
Does Google recommend it like Windows does for PC? (already read the article from one Google guy saying Antivirus companies are playing on our fears, but he is only one guy)
And to those who have used antivirus software, which software did you use on your Note specifically and has it slowed down your Note or increased the battery consumption?
knowsnophones said:
How many of you guys use Antivirus?
Who here does not feel the need?
Does Google recommend it like Windows does for PC? (already read the article from one Google guy saying Antivirus companies are playing on our fears, but he is only one guy)
And to those who have used antivirus software, which software did you use on your Note specifically and has it slowed down your Note or increased the battery consumption?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You already have a couple fairly comprehensive answers to your first post but I'll answer these questions too:
I do not use any antivirus and I do not feel the need to
Aside from that article, I haven't seen a single mention from Google about needing any antivirus at all.
The so called antivirus programs that are made for Android right now suck. They don't stop enough malware to be worth the money or effort, here's a few source links for evidence: http://www.extremetech.com/computin...rus-apps-are-useless-heres-what-to-do-instead and http://www.informationweek.com/byte/news/231902823
Just by using common sense you will be fine with no antivirus app. If you really want an antivirus app, then go get it. It will be close to useless and it won't stop all threats anyway so you will still have to use common sense to be protected anyway.
I installed avast. it is free and no it doesn't slow down my note.
friedje said:
I installed avast. it is free and no it doesn't slow down my note.
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Click to collapse
I got the AVG pro, might not really need it since I´m kind of anal about what I install on the GNOTE... But better safe than sorry...
+1 doesn´t slow things down.
akselic said:
You already have a couple fairly comprehensive answers to your first post but I'll answer these questions too:
I do not use any antivirus and I do not feel the need to
Aside from that article, I haven't seen a single mention from Google about needing any antivirus at all.
The so called antivirus programs that are made for Android right now suck. They don't stop enough malware to be worth the money or effort, here's a few source links for evidence: http://www.extremetech.com/computin...rus-apps-are-useless-heres-what-to-do-instead and http://www.informationweek.com/byte/news/231902823
Just by using common sense you will be fine with no antivirus app. If you really want an antivirus app, then go get it. It will be close to useless and it won't stop all threats anyway so you will still have to use common sense to be protected anyway.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just because YOU feel superior to most other users, doesn't mean that they have the knowledge or enough 'common sense' to understand the permissions some apps ask for. The fact that an antivirus is not 100% safe doesn't mean it is 100% useless.... If it stops just one threath it already made sense..
There are lots of good FREE antivirus programs so where is the reason NOT to install one ???
There are also ppl that don't take medics, because if they or their children die from FLU that was Gods will.......
Maybe you should consider that not all users of a smartphone are IT-gods like you
friedje said:
I installed avast. it is free and no it doesn't slow down my note.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ville7805 said:
I got the AVG pro, might not really need it since I´m kind of anal about what I install on the GNOTE... But better safe than sorry...
+1 doesn´t slow things down.
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Click to collapse
I have both installed, no slowdown issues and was running LBE too, may switch to droidwall or turn LBE back on. Worth noting the AVG pro is free if you qualify for the Samsung Hub exclusives.
Dave
I am using Lookout anti-virus ever since my first Android more than a year ago. It's never given me a hic-cup even when scanning.
Also, anyone knows an App which lists which App has what permission in a list form?
Thanks!
Sent from my GT-N7000 using Tapatalk
Does a free antitrust do as good a job as a paid one
Sent from my GT-N7000 using xda premium
ChimpNippl3s said:
Does a free antitrust do as good a job as a paid one
Sent from my GT-N7000 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For now they all do a rather lousy job, the free and the paid ones.
But the paid ones seem to score a bit better.
I installed LBE aswell, but you need root for it to work well.
Same goes for avast, it prefers having root access.
I use avg on my galaxy tab, works without any issues.
friedje said:
Just because YOU feel superior to most other users, doesn't mean that they have the knowledge or enough 'common sense' to understand the permissions some apps ask for. The fact that an antivirus is not 100% safe doesn't mean it is 100% useless.... If it stops just one threath it already made sense..
There are lots of good FREE antivirus programs so where is the reason NOT to install one ???
There are also ppl that don't take medics, because if they or their children die from FLU that was Gods will.......
Maybe you should consider that not all users of a smartphone are IT-gods like you
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No need to over react mate. I'm no IT-god, or a nerd or anything like an "advanced" user. The only common sense that I was referring to is something that everyone has. If you can read what the apps do, then you can read the permissions before installing them. There is no need to be an expert.
If you are installing a single player offline game that asks permissions for sms, phone calls and contacts and it isn't blacklisted by those antivirus apps yet, then it won't be detected and you can only blame yourself when you get a 600$ phone bill because the app has sent messages to premium numbers. It's not rocket science, just common sence.
If the tests conclude that 90% of androids antivirus programs manage 10-20% of malicious apps and you still want one, then go ahead and get one. No need to get offended when people are trying to give advice.
anyone know much about the sercurity on the phone?
recently i read about this new free security app called on NQ mobile.
http://www.redmondpie.com/nq-mobile...st-solution-against-malware-viruses-and-more/
i installed it and noticed that it really drains the battery (seems like if toggles apps that aren't even opened into its memory). so it got me thinking .. is it really worth it to install apps like these for anti-virus's, maleware, etc.. ?
did a search and it seems the top three as of March 20th are:
Kaspersky Mobile Security (not free)
Lookout Security & Antivirus (free)
F-Secure Mobile Security (more for parental control)
not too sure where NQ would fit into the picture since the article came out on april 11th.
anyhow anyone with any idea such programs on the android is worth the draw back on power consumption and security risk please comment!
thanks.
IMO I don't think there is an antivirus app out there that would serve its purpose... It's more common sense... There's a good reason why when you try to download non market apps that you have to read that little disclaimer and check the box to allow them to install... Know what the apps do, if it doesn't need a permission or if you dont think it needs a permission then don't install it...
Sent from my HTC Sensation 4g Rocking ARHD 6.6.2
wapena92 said:
IMO I don't think there is an antivirus app out there that would serve its purpose... It's more common sense... There's a good reason why when you try to download non market apps that you have to read that little disclaimer and check the box to allow them to install... Know what the apps do, if it doesn't need a permission or if you dont think it needs a permission then don't install it...
Sent from my HTC Sensation 4g Rocking ARHD 6.6.2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Very good advice. Also, keep really sensetive stuff to a minimum. If you can bank on your computer, do it.
I just flash another ROM every couple of days and get my apps from the market. Lol
i hear ya both..
so basically in, layman's terms, these so called "security" apps dont do squat?
and you should just keep personal and secured stuff off these devices and perhaps use a laptop to access key information (like banking and emails)?
I am not sure what you mean when you refer to some apps as non-market apps. think all the security apps i mentioned are available through the android market (aka Play Store).
Not the security apps. By non-market apps we mean any apk's installed that you get any place but the play store.
estallings15 said:
Not the security apps. By non-market apps we mean any apk's installed that you get any place but the play store.
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Click to collapse
thanked you both. .
i see.. guess i am not keen on where else you can get apk files other than the market place (play store) .
so bottom line is no need install these "security apps" cause they dont do anything?
junkiee24 said:
thanked you both. .
i see.. guess i am not keen on where else you can get apk files other than the market place (play store) .
so bottom line is no need install these "security apps" cause they dont do anything?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, they do behind the scene stuff. Lookout scans ALL your apps, just to check for anything malicious. Lookout has some kind of backup, but I never use it. When I bought my myTouch, my T-Mobile rep installed about 5 must have apps on my phone, and Lookout was #1 on his list. I've been using it on every ROM I've had. Hope this helps!
EDIT: You can get apks from the internet. Specifically pirated apps. People do not want to pay for the app, so they download it online. But people could have modified that apk and but a virus or who knows what in that apk. So it's best to keep an anti virus app. Lookout scans a new app each time I install/update it.
invasion2 said:
No, they do behind the scene stuff. Lookout scans ALL your apps, just to check for anything malicious. Lookout has some kind of backup, but I never use it. When I bought my myTouch, my T-Mobile rep installed about 5 must have apps on my phone, and Lookout was #1 on his list. I've been using it on every ROM I've had. Hope this helps!
EDIT: You can get apks from the internet. Specifically pirated apps. People do not want to pay for the app, so they download it online. But people could have modified that apk and but a virus or who knows what in that apk. So it's best to keep an anti virus app. Lookout scans a new app each time I install/update it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cool.. so now the questions is which security app is better.. Lookout or this NQ one.. ill go ahead and try lookout and see how much battery drain i get.
i dont download any apks outside of the market. but i hear there were a few places that had pirated apks but i guess i never trusted them (blackmarket). its not like Cydia for the iOS, where the apps are safely cracked.. atleast i think they are. so with a security app i guess it would alert you if the apk is corrupt - nice.
Thanks again.
junkiee24 said:
Cool.. so now the questions is which security app is better.. Lookout or this NQ one.. ill go ahead and try lookout and see how much battery drain i get.
i dont download any apks outside of the market. but i hear there were a few places that had pirated apks but i guess i never trusted them (blackmarket). its not like Cydia for the iOS, where the apps are safely cracked.. atleast i think they are. so with a security app i guess it would alert you if the apk is corrupt - nice.
Thanks again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't get any battery drain with Lookout. Hope you experience the same thing mate.
I used lookout for a little while, but then I realized that I only need it if I'm careless, which I'm not.
SECURITY!!!
Lookout is very good but since I'm rooted Avast free works wonders beyond basics. van allow which apps have internet access etc. must have for me. very nice on batt.
Has anyone ever had, or known anyone who got a virus or anything on a smartphone? Personally I haven't. Therefore I don't use any type of protection, which I probably should.
Sent from my HTC Glacier using XDA Premium
No, I don't know anyone who ever got malicious SW or any type of virus on Android. For the same reason I never heard of anyone getting a virus on Linux. And for the same reason, I don't have any apps that are made to protect me from things that aren't a threat.
estallings15 said:
Very good advice. Also, keep really sensetive stuff to a minimum. If you can bank on your computer, do it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right best option to do so...
junkiee24 said:
i hear ya both..
so basically in, layman's terms, these so called "security" apps dont do squat?
and you should just keep personal and secured stuff off these devices and perhaps use a laptop to access key information (like banking and email)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The reason why they don't much is because there not meant for this kind of system... Android unique system is a little well very complex to make a antivirus app or that would find malware... There are so many ways around it...
It's amazing... There's an article I read that explained this...
I'm gonna see if I can find it and post the link
Jack_R1 said:
No, I don't know anyone who ever got malicious SW or any type of virus on Android. For the same reason I never heard of anyone getting a virus on Linux. And for the same reason, I don't have any apps that are made to protect me from things that aren't a threat.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well you should look around the web... You'll be surprised want you'll find... The threat on smartphones is very high... It's pretty scary...
If I find any of those articles ill post a link...
Sent from my HTC Sensation 4g Rocking ARHD 6.6.2
junkiee24 said:
i dont download any apks outside of the market. but i hear there were a few places that had pirated apks but i guess i never trusted them (blackmarket). its not like Cydia for the iOS, where the apps are safely cracked.. atleast i think they are. so with a security app i guess it would alert you if the apk is corrupt - nice.
Thanks again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Those security apps don't really know what there looking for... It's a lot different then windows OS... They don't need much to mess around with your info...
Sent from my HTC Sensation 4g Rocking ARHD 6.6.0
http://www.xda-developers.com/android/major-facebook-sdk-vulnerability-run-for-the-hills/
There are good people out there but that's not always the case...
Vulnerability is everywhere...
It's hard to make an app with little mistakes as possible... Making an app period is hard... I've tried and failed horribly at it lol so I can just imagine how hard it is to take out those nicks, bugs and issues that causes problem like this
http://www.lifehacker.com.au/2011/11/do-android-antivirus-apps-actually-do-anything/
So people think otherwise from me...
Here is their opinion... I take this very lightly...
http://www.extremetech.com/computin...s-apps-are-useless-heres-what-to-do-instead/2
Here's with what I agree with...
Like I said some disagree.....
http://m.zdnet.com/blog/hardware/premium-rate-sms-trojans-hit-googles-android-market/17070
And here a small case of sms trojan that hit a little while back...
Just some things to read and think about...
Sent from my HTC Sensation 4g Rocking ARHD 6.6.2
It all boils down to not downloading crappy, unknown apps, and if downloading - checking their permissions. Trojans hit people who don't understand anything and don't have control over their apps (not that there aren't enough of those). Other threats are virtually non-existent.
true.. i am trying avast now.. pretty cool.
thanks everyone!
Exactly that simple lol
And no problem... Keep it safe
Sent from my HTC Sensation 4g Rocking ARHD 6.6.2
Can someone suggest best antivirus for ICS?
Sent from my GT-N7000 using xda premium
None. Antivirus software for Android = a scam to make the antivirus vendors money.
Just read reviews for apps before installing them from the Market. Malware is usually pretty obvious.
Norton,avast,dr.web they were tested by some big world company wich test antiviruses so type at google best android's antivirus
Sent from my GT-I9100 using XDA
Entropy512 said:
None. Antivirus software for Android = a scam to make the antivirus vendors money.
Just read reviews for apps before installing them from the Market. Malware is usually pretty obvious.
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Click to collapse
Not really true. If you are tech savvy enough to be sure you don't have anything with malware then best of luck to you. You are well respected on this forum so I'm sure you'll be fine.
I'm technically minded and a software programmer by trade but I couldn't be sure that any app on the market is safe without fully reverse engineering it (which I'm not eating my time attempting) and even then some sneaky developer could push something dodgy out in an update so I'd have to check them too.
Also checking apps doesn't protect you from dodgy messages, emails, etc.
So, I have AVG on all my Android devices just in case. It uses very little resources and has caught a couple of suspect things over the last 6 months since I moved to 'Droid!
I am using Kaspersky Mobile Security. Very System friendly.
Sent from my Samsung Galaxy Note using XDA Premium App
I am taking the small risk of a data leak over a performance loss, so I am currently not running one, having said that I do run it on my pc :-/
emuX said:
.
I'm technically minded and a software programmer by trade but I couldn't be sure that any app on the market is safe without fully reverse engineering it (which I'm not eating my time attempting) and even then some sneaky developer could push something dodgy out in an update so I'd have to check them too.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's not about needing to reverse engineer code!
It's more about paying attention to the permissions that the app requests when you go to install it and deciding if they are appropriate.
For example, an app that just makes farting noises almost certainly doesn't need access to your contacts, and services that cost you money.
Some people think that an Android antivirus program will protect them against such threats, and they will if the application has been "blacklisted". However, most of these programs rely on blacklists, so until a particular application is flagged as malware, you are still at risk!
The moral of the story is, nothing beats eternal vigilance!
Regards,
Dave
Sent from my GT-N7000 using Tapatalk 2
emuX said:
Not really true. If you are tech savvy enough to be sure you don't have anything with malware then best of luck to you. You are well respected on this forum so I'm sure you'll be fine.
I'm technically minded and a software programmer by trade but I couldn't be sure that any app on the market is safe without fully reverse engineering it (which I'm not eating my time attempting) and even then some sneaky developer could push something dodgy out in an update so I'd have to check them too.
Also checking apps doesn't protect you from dodgy messages, emails, etc.
So, I have AVG on all my Android devices just in case. It uses very little resources and has caught a couple of suspect things over the last 6 months since I moved to 'Droid!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And neither will these 'antivirus' software help if a developer slips something in, the truth is the best thing you can do it check comments malware is far less a problem on android then Windows, these companys simply try to sell you this software as so many people are used to needing it on windows they think android is the same.
All the apps do is detect known 'black listed' apps which are either not going to be on the market or have bad comments already.
While the main reason for these apps is pointless I will say some of the extra features are quite useful including device tracking etc.
However I would never buy one of these apps for sure
Avast Free s the best, enough said.
John
Tinderbox (UK) said:
Avast Free s the best, enough said.
John
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep
The additional 'Theft Aware' software, is free as well
emuX said:
Not really true. If you are tech savvy enough to be sure you don't have anything with malware then best of luck to you. You are well respected on this forum so I'm sure you'll be fine.
I'm technically minded and a software programmer by trade but I couldn't be sure that any app on the market is safe without fully reverse engineering it (which I'm not eating my time attempting) and even then some sneaky developer could push something dodgy out in an update so I'd have to check them too.
Also checking apps doesn't protect you from dodgy messages, emails, etc.
So, I have AVG on all my Android devices just in case. It uses very little resources and has caught a couple of suspect things over the last 6 months since I moved to 'Droid!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You my friend, are to paranoid.
Sent from my GT-N7000 using xda premium
lamou1nr said:
You my friend, are to paranoid.
Sent from my GT-N7000 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Better that than having all my account details hacked because some dodgy app is snooping.
Responding to the others who replied to me...
If you choose a reputable AV company like AVG or Norton you should be safe.
And, you can't tell much from the permissions. Yes, if the app asks for access to your contacts and phone identity then you could just not install it, but what if it was an alternative dialer that was ad supported? - then it would need internet access and permissions to read your phone details (like Go Dialer) and then you are stuffed.
I've got a door at the front of my house. Even though I live in a good area and have neighbours around most of the day, I still lock it!
foxmeister said:
It's not about needing to reverse engineer code!
It's more about paying attention to the permissions that the app requests when you go to install it and deciding if they are appropriate.
For example, an app that just makes farting noises almost certainly doesn't need access to your contacts, and services that cost you money.
Some people think that an Android antivirus program will protect them against such threats, and they will if the application has been "blacklisted". However, most of these programs rely on blacklists, so until a particular application is flagged as malware, you are still at risk!
The moral of the story is, nothing beats eternal vigilance!
Regards,
Dave
Sent from my GT-N7000 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk 2
emuX said:
I've got a door at the front of my house. Even though I live in a good area and have neighbours around most of the day, I still lock it!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To use your analogy, your "antivirus" app is like a bouncer on your front door. If a known threat pitches up and wants to come in, the bouncer will stop them, but for new and unknown threats, he'll happily wave them through.
Given that reputable app stores like Google Play or Amazon are quick to remove known threats, all you've done is bought yourself a false sense of security! Good luck with that!
Regards,
Dave
Sent from my GT-N7000 using Tapatalk 2
I was just asking about this kind of thing just the other day.
Here is what I found (http://www.av-test.org/en/tests/android/)
The Best stuff at the moment seems to be
avast! Free Mobile Security
F-Secure Mobile Security
Kaspersky Mobile Security (Lite)
. . . .McAfee Mobile Security >_> (Apparently...)
and
Zoner AntiVirus Free
I'm using COMODO on Android (good antivirus, real time scaner and great anti theft options) and on PC i'm using COMODO Internet Security (antivirus+firewall+sandbox). It's free both on Android and PC.
Avast
Avast...without doubt.Run it on my PC too.
I'm using LBE to adjust/monitor permissions for apps. I don't think antivirus programs will do you any good.
Avast is the best in my opinion. Even though its a really good AV and its also free I still dont use one. Don't need one on my mobile.
Even on Windows I never get viruses.
Most malware and viruses come in with dodgy emails and dodgy websites. Avoid those and you'll be fine.
I just use Avast even though I like it more for the Anti-theft feature than the actual anti-virus feature.
Hey guys and gals,
Tonight my a500 was stolen. I work in sales and use it to look things on the net for customers (like price comparisons, etc) and use it for the website and lots of other business-type things (as well as lots of personal pics etc).
But, unfortunately when my back was turned, someone swiped it...!!!! argh:angry:
I had the newest release of jellybean on it from the forums here on xda, but had no remote wipe app installed (never even crossed my mind to do it). Therefore, I'm wondering if the is any remote wipe abilities in jellybean or if there was an app by chance that i had installed that would have this feature hidden (like onavo or norton utilities... reading now).
If anyone can help that would be amazing! Changed all my passwords, etc. So, I should be fine there. thanks guys
k
kylereid said:
Hey guys and gals,
Tonight my a500 was stolen. I work in sales and use it to look things on the net for customers (like price comparisons, etc) and use it for the website and lots of other business-type things (as well as lots of personal pics etc).
But, unfortunately when my back was turned, someone swiped it...!!!! argh:angry:
I had the newest release of jellybean on it from the forums here on xda, but had no remote wipe app installed (never even crossed my mind to do it). Therefore, I'm wondering if the is any remote wipe abilities in jellybean or if there was an app by chance that i had installed that would have this feature hidden (like onavo or norton utilities... reading now).
If anyone can help that would be amazing! Changed all my passwords, etc. So, I should be fine there. thanks guys
k
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry mate. Not a lot you can do about it at this time.
Just cherish the thought of what's going to happen when he decides jb is too buggy, and tries to install a different rom. :laugh:
I suppose a new user will be posting all kinds of questions here at xda in the near future!
Still sorry to hear it got pinched. I know the feeling.
MD
thanks man. thought i was buggered lol. I left a facebook update that i hope shows up on the notifications in the tablet and make the culprit feel guilty. maybe it'll show up in the morning at work... fingers crossed. made me look at getting a wipe app for the old phone now, went with seekdroid. seems legit. any other suggestions?
kylereid said:
thanks man. thought i was buggered lol. I left a facebook update that i hope shows up on the notifications in the tablet and make the culprit feel guilty. maybe it'll show up in the morning at work... fingers crossed. made me look at getting a wipe app for the old phone now, went with seekdroid. seems legit. any other suggestions?
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Click to collapse
Well, I don't have a lot of faith in those types of apps. They usually only work if an idiot steals it. Over here, pinching phones and tabs is big business, and usually done by pro's. They're quick to dump the device to another agent, who runs a stock full rom on it, clones the IMEI number from a good device , then dumps it to one of the umpteen million fly by night resellers. They (moscow govt) talked about cracking down on multiple PH number/IMEI combinations, then quickly realized over half the devices in Russia would stop working! Including their own!
Best thing to do, never let it out of your sight. Get a new device, like I did my phone, and the pain goes away.
But then again, maybe your culprit is a true idiot, and will post fotos to your facebook account!!!!!
MD
WAS YOU SIGNED INTO GOOGLE maps? latitude?
if so go to google.maps and click location history u can now see where your a500 is!!!!
good luck and hope you kick his ass:good:
i have "prey" software installed on all my devices for such problem
Did you try that Plan B yet or is that just over advertised junk?
Moscow Desire said:
Well, I don't have a lot of faith in those types of apps. They usually only work if an idiot steals it. Over here, pinching phones and tabs is big business, and usually done by pro's. They're quick to dump the device to another agent, who runs a stock full rom on it, clones the IMEI number from a good device , then dumps it to one of the umpteen million fly by night resellers. They (moscow govt) talked about cracking down on multiple PH number/IMEI combinations, then quickly realized over half the devices in Russia would stop working! Including their own!
Best thing to do, never let it out of your sight. Get a new device, like I did my phone, and the pain goes away.
But then again, maybe your culprit is a true idiot, and will post fotos to your facebook account!!!!!
MD
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Click to collapse
The last person to steal one of my phones was a true idiot. This happened at my school and good thing I'm done with school. I was in class and had my phone charging and I had it out because I trusted most everyone in the room and would known who would have taken it.
So he asked if it was my phone and about a minute later he leaves the room. I noticed it was gone and others around me saw him take it. (Not obvious at all)
So I had the Vipre Mobile Security beta installed so I immediately logged into the web interface to activate GPS tracking and set off the alarm. Except when I logged in the service hadn't communicated when the app/phone in over a month so it was useless.
Over the period of the next 24 hours he had used the phone to take photos, delete everything on my sdcard, spam my YouTube feed with countless videos, and make voice calls to their own friends and family. So I looked on my carrier's account management and found all these numbers. Between the school staff and police it was possible to track the calls back to his identity. I got my phone back the next day...without the case and screen protector, sucks that they kept that.
So the lesson is make sure you have good, working anti theft solutions with cascading failsafes.
The next app I installed after ditching Vipre was Avast. This was a good solution with some flaws. Avast was one of the first Play Store security apps to utilize root access. Because of root in addition to setting as a device administrator it was also installed as a system service and app. This made it persistent and harder to remove.
The issue with avast was since the app was in /system and not /data it would have to be completely reconfigured after flashing each nightly update. Sometimes I'd forget and then it wouldn't work. It claimed to support the CM backup script except it was designed for CM7 and CM9 uses a different type of backup.
The other issue with avast was there was no web interface. You could only send commands through SMS.
Since I got my Nexus I bought Cerberus anti theft its perfect. It has system app support. Instead of a user setup it apparently registers the device ID or SIM or something and loads the user account from the cloud server. So all I do is add the apk to the CM backup list and it auto configures when installed. I can use SMS control or the website. I can monitor and control pretty much the entire phone and it takes a front camera photo on invalid pass code.
I check weekly to ensure its still running and it hasn't failed once.
As a failsafe I also have the first screen splash modded to my contact info in case of loss. Its encrypted so if anything maybe only a boot loader update could remove it.
chismay said:
WAS YOU SIGNED INTO GOOGLE maps? latitude?
if so go to google.maps and click location history u can now see where your a500 is!!!!
good luck and hope you kick his ass:good:
i have "prey" software installed on all my devices for such problem
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think that only works if you accept all the tracking disclaimers to enable location history and not many people have history turned on.
I guess the lesson is you can't let your guard down for even a second. One time I let a friend sync their iPod touch on my computer since they didn't have a PC and they ended up snatching my classic monochrome iPod. I'm still upset to this day since they didn't take my old iPod touch instead. That just proves the first gen iPod touch is so bad people won't even steal it.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 2
KemikalElite said:
I think that only works if you accept all the tracking disclaimers to enable location history and not many people have history turned on.
I guess the lesson is you can't let your guard down for even a second. One time I let a friend sync their iPod touch on my computer since they didn't have a PC and they ended up snatching my classic monochrome iPod. I'm still upset to this day since they didn't take my old iPod touch instead. That just proves the first gen iPod touch is so bad people won't even steal it.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 2
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oh yea def' just thought for pot-luck ,
it is a pitty when you let someone come into your house as a friendly gesture only to find them stealing from you,... ive had my fair share and also a fair share of miss-understandings thereafter because of a newly aquired paranoia..... but i think its 100% justified.
If you download the lookout app and install it, if you ever lose your tablet, on the lookout website you can see where it is, (if GPS was enabled when lost) you can also do a remote wipe, and a remote siren, make it put off an alarm remotely.
Its a good app to have just in case, but doesn't help if the app was not installed before being lost or stolen.
Sent from my A500 using xda app-developers app
lifeofcoding said:
If you download the lookout app and install it, if you ever lose your tablet, on the lookout website you can see where it is, (if GPS was enabled when lost) you can also do a remote wipe, and a remote siren, make it put off an alarm remotely.
Its a good app to have just in case, but doesn't help if the app was not installed before being lost or stolen.
Sent from my A500 using xda app-developers app
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yeah sound like the prey app too , i can also send a popup message to the tab screen, be near the location displayed on the map and then activate a "S-SCARING" siren lol
also one good thing is prey uses the location services through wifi as well as gps, tells you the address of the current and last wifi hotspots logged into
so if it says currently "wii hotspot mcdonalds fast food , thief street. lol go to the mcdonalds and set off the alarms,...clearly see your tablet...and a jackass who need a beating. :highfive::highfive::highfive::highfive:
chismay said:
WAS YOU SIGNED INTO GOOGLE maps? latitude?
if so go to google.maps and click location history u can now see where your a500 is!!!!
good luck and hope you kick his ass:good:
i have "prey" software installed on all my devices for such problem
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hey man, great idea! no luck...
and thanks guys for al of the advice! still no luck with the tab i think the worst part of it is was that i was really getting to love it. like the development here, especially with jb!, is fantastic. and i was a kickstarter supporter for chameleon and now seeing the new updates really puts salt on the wound. lol. in the next month i'll need another tablet, so im debating on finding another 2nd hand one for the price of a nexus 7, or just getting the 7. only thing is though, is the size....
thanks again.
I'm assuming you've looked into "Plan B" on the Android market, right? It automatically installs from the market on your tablet, and broadcasts location immediately on install. Not sure how accurate or helpful it is, but if you haven't tried it yet... you probably should.
The other option is to put out some Wanted To Buy ads...
gfinockio said:
I'm assuming you've looked into "Plan B" on the Android market, right? It automatically installs from the market on your tablet, and broadcasts location immediately on install. Not sure how accurate or helpful it is, but if you haven't tried it yet... you probably should.
The other option is to put out some Wanted To Buy ads...
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Click to collapse
i already changed the passwords, i wasn't aware of Plan B. great idea though! i tried it anyways lol.
and yeah ive been scouring kijiji and craigslist like a fiend
How many of you have Avast installed? Does it use too much battery?
are you trying to have anti virus or anti theft ?
if its anti theft your looking for id suggest Cerebus. Im not to sure about the battery drain on Avast though
https://play.google.com/store/apps/...51bGwsMSwxLDEsImNvbS5sc2Ryb2lkLmNlcmJlcnVzIl0.
waste of memory and battery to have any antivirus apps installed. just dont install third-party apps from suspicious places
I've had avast installed on another phone of mine. Doesn't use a lot of resources, but it's useless most of the time.
Just install it if you're going to install an app from a shady 3rd party website to scan said app and deactivate or uninstall it of you don't need it.
Seriously all that marketing crap you hear about android and malware is loads of bollocks.... Chances of you getting a virus are like winning a lottery...
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda premium
MattSkeet said:
Seriously all that marketing crap you hear about android and malware is loads of bollocks.... Chances of you getting a virus are like winning a lottery...
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda premium
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Agreed. And if someone does get a virus from a app that someone downloaded from a third-party website or third-party market (not Amazon or SlideIT though), chances are... they deserve it for pirating apps
Besides.. android has a built in malware scanner before you install a app. Not sure how good it is but yeah.
Aside from that, basic rules.
1. dont install apks from random places
2. dont install apps from play store that are just now recently published with 0 ratings [i mean you could... but be wary of it, look at the dev's other apps he made and its ratings]
if you're looking for anti theft, then get a app with only antitheft (or disable its antivirus component if bundled). cerberus is a good app, one time fee of 2.99 euros. there are free alternatives available as well.
lookout's plan b is pretty good as well (remotely install it via play store website to obtain location)
Does anyone use seekdroid for antitheft. Is it any good?
none of these anti theft sofware/app will get your phone back if it gets into the 'wrong' hands, so its the luck of the draw if you ever 'lost' your phone, good luck
cobyman7035 said:
none of these anti theft sofware/app will get your phone back if it gets into the 'wrong' hands, so its the luck of the draw if you ever 'lost' your phone, good luck
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Click to collapse
Even if they can't get their phone back I think users are looking for a remote wipe as a phone does contain a lot of personal information in regards to user accounts.
And some people have actually gotten their phones back with the help of police
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda premium
zephiK said:
Even if they can't get their phone back I think users are looking for a remote wipe as a phone does contain a lot of personal information in regards to user accounts.
And some people have actually gotten their phones back with the help of police
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda premium
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Yes agree wipe feature is nice to have as a last resort or first if your paranoid
°°°Nexus™ 4 via XDA Premium App°°°
if people are looking for theft security. get a app that only does that, not a antivirus included.
or just go live on the high road and use Plan B