The five best free Android apps for smartphone security
Malware on Google Android devices is becoming more and more of a problem for smartphone owners. Until now, malicious apps such as DroidDream and DroidDream Light, had exploited bugs in earlier versions of the OS but wouldn't affect those devices running Gingerbread (version 2.3). However, now researchers have spotted malware that exploits a critical vulnerability in this version of Google's mobile platform.
The safest course of action is to avoid apps that you've never heard of and to research apps and their publishers thoroughly before pressing the Download button. When you install an app, you'll see a list of permissions for services that the app can access on your device. But an alarm clock app, say, probably shouldn't need to access your contacts. If something in the permissions screen looks fishy, just don't download the app.
However, if you are concerned about the software already installed on your Android smartphone, then there are a number of free security apps available in the Android Market that will scan your phone and identify any rogue apps. Here's five of the best.
