Android security: Analysis, advice, and next-level knowledge

It’s tough to talk about Android security without venturing into sensational terrain.

A large part of that is due to the simple fact that the forces driving most Android security coverage are companies that make their money by selling Android security software — and thus companies with strong interests in pushing the narrative that every Android phone is on the perpetual brink of grave, unfathomable danger. Plus, let’s face it: A headline about 70 gazillion Android phones being vulnerable to the MegaMonsterSkullCrusher Virus is far more enticing than one explaining the nuanced realities of Android security.

In actuality, though, Android security is a complex beast — one with multiple layers in place to protect you and one that almost never warrants an alarmist attitude. I’ve been covering Android security closely since the platform’s earliest days, and I’ve busted more myths and called out more shameless publicity stunts than I can even count at this point.

So allow me to be your guide in navigating the ever-changing arena of Android security and the misleading halo of information around it. From practical advice to in-depth analysis, you can find all my current Android security coverage in the frequently updated sections below.

The most important thing to take away from this? Take a deep breath. Regardless of what you may have read elsewhere, there’s rarely any reason to panic — and things are almost certainly going to be OK.

Android security tips and advice

Android security checkup: 16 steps to a safer phone

Android security doesn’t have to be a source of stress. These level-headed steps are all you need to keep the boogeyman at bay.

10 steps to smarter Google account security

Give yourself some added peace of mind by giving your Google account a thorough set of security reinforcements.

The ultimate guide to privacy on Android

Take back control and decide exactly how information is used on your Android phone.

12 Android settings that’ll strengthen your security

Some of the most important Android settings are also the most buried — and they’re absolutely worth your while to uncover and put into action.

A 20-second tweak for smarter, simpler Android security

This tiny-seeming change will make a gigantic difference in your day-to-day Android experience.

How to give your phone an Android-12-inspired privacy upgrade

No Android 12? No problem. You can bring an important layer of privacy protection from that release onto any phone with 12 taps and 20 seconds of setup.

The best privacy and security apps for Android

Forget malware scanners or over-the-top security suites: These are the apps that’ll actually improve your security and protect your privacy on Android.

Google Smart Lock: The complete guide

Google Smart Lock can simplify security and save you time on Android, ChromeOS, and even Mac and Windows. Are you taking advantage of all it has to offer?

Find My Device: How Android’s security service can manage your missing phone

Android’s Find My Device feature makes it easy to track down and deal with a missing phone. Here’s everything you need to know.

Android security knowledge and analysis

5 smart questions that’ll smother most Android security scares

Start asking the right questions — and stop freaking out.

Before you panic: 6 things to remember about Android security

The next Android security scare will seem a lot less scary with these six critical facts in mind.

When Google Play Protect fails

Google’s system for keeping malware off Android phones is mostly effective — so how does it sometimes stumble so spectacularly?

Behind the scenes: The anatomy of an Android security flaw

An in-depth look at what actually happens when Google discovers a vulnerability — and why alarmist headlines frequently fail to tell the full tale.

A highly sarcastic Android security warning

The Android malware monster is back — and this time, he’s coming for all of your deepest, darkest secrets. (Uh, maybe.)

The Android malware monster will never die

But here’s the dirty little secret security software vendors don’t want you to know: There’s really no reason to be scared.

Galaxy users, take note: Samsung’s probably selling your data

When you buy a Galaxy phone, Google’s promise to protect your information isn’t the only one that applies.

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