How can I prevent getting a virus or malware on my mobile?
This article applies to all OPSWAT Mobile App releases deployed on Android and iOS devices.
The vast majority of apps available through official app sources, such as Google Play and App Store, are free from viruses and malware. In general, mobile devices are most readily infected via side-loading from unverified third-party sources.
Side-loading is the practice of transferring apps to a mobile device via USB, Bluetooth or WiFi, from sources that are not pre-approved by the mobile device vendor (Samsung, Apple, etc.).
By default, Android and iOS devices prevent side-loading and issue a warning/confirmation pop-up when the user attempts to download an app from an untrusted source.
However, Android and iOS both offer the option to disable the default block and allow the downloading of apps from unapproved sites.
This practice is commonplace for device users looking to install software free of charge, or software that just isn’t available via approved sources, yet it remains a leading cause of virus and malware contamination.
The best way to avoid contaminating your mobile device is to ALWAYS download apps directly from official, verified app sources, after confirming the publishers and checking the user reviews.
Additionally the OPSWAT Mobile App for Android has the functionality to scan all installed apps on a device via MetaDefender Cloud, reporting on all possible threats for swift remediation.
If you have further queries or concerns regarding How To Prevent A Virus Or Malware From Infecting Your Mobile Device, please open a Support Case with the OPSWAT team via phone, online chat or form, or feel free to ask the community on our OPSWAT Expert Forum.