“Tambir” disguises itself in bogus streaming apps, watching your every keystroke. “Dwphon” pretends to be a system update to steal personal data. And “Gigabud?” A phony loan app that sidesteps two-factor authentication. Your reminder: Download apps only from the official stores — and get TotalAV* for your phone. (It covers up to five devices!)
8 quick and easy ways to clean up your Android
Your smartphone can get bogged down with software, viruses and too many files like a computer. It can run slowly when that happens, which is less than ideal.
If you own an Android phone and want to keep it running like new, there are some steps you’ll need to take. Here are eight maintenance tips to keep your Android as good as new.
1. Get rid of bloatware
No matter the version, your phone comes pre-loaded with stuff you don’t need. If you have had your phone for a while, there’s also a good chance you’ve downloaded apps you no longer use. Keep your phone running smoothly and delete them. Here’s how:
- Head to Settings.
- Go to Apps and Notifications.
- Hit See All Apps.
- Uninstall the ones you don’t need.
RELATED: 12 smart Android tips and tricks you should be using
2. Clear out the junk
When you download a file or document to your phone, it gets saved somewhere. Do you know where? What about all those duplicate photos? There is an endless list of junk that ends up hidden in the nooks and crannies of your phone, so delete it using a third-party app like Files by Google.
Files by Google will give you clean-up suggestions, delete duplicate photos and optimize your storage space, all for free.
3. Revoke location access
A recent Android update came with a security dashboard that allows you to see what permissions apps have. You’d be astonished to see how many apps can access your location and how few need it. Thankfully you can review the apps and revoke permissions. Here’s how:
Weak signal? How to get better Wi-Fi on your Android
You rely on your phone for a lot. It helps to give your tech a checkup now and then to avoid more severe and costly problems later. Tap or click here for six ways to get started.
What’s more frustrating than lousy Wi-Fi when you’re trying to get something done? Your Android phone loses much of its functionality without a solid network connection. The problem could be coming from several sources, and we’re here to help you narrow them down and get your internet back on track.
Update your Android! Message upgrades, pay with your voice and more
If you have an Android device, you’ll want to hit that “update” button soon. Tap or click here for seven things you didn’t know your Android could do. Google released a significant update for the mobile operating system, adding many new functions and accessibility options.
Use an Android? Update NOW to fix serious security flaws
Keeping your mobile device updated to the latest operating system version is critical if you value online safety and privacy. New updates tighten your phone’s security, preventing hackers from accessing your data. Sometimes a system update adds more features.
Android 12: 5 things you can do now that you couldn't before
The new version of Android OS was released this week, and it comes packed with new features. It’s initially released for Google’s own Pixel 3 or more recent phones, with other devices to follow soon. Tap or click here to speed up your Android with a handy app.
Use a Samsung smartphone? Install this security patch now
Technology leaves our privacy and security at risk every day as hackers quickly adjust to new security protocols. This leaves your personal information and your devices at risk. Smartphone manufacturers are constantly working to ensure top-notch security on their devices, but with each update comes new opportunities for your phone to be hacked.
Android warning! Are you about to lose access to Google apps?
Updated Sept. 26, 2021 – The time to upgrade is now. Monday, Sept. 27, is the official day older versions of Android will lose access to their Google accounts. Read on for complete details.
Google’s Android operating system has been the preferred mobile platform for billions of users for a long time. The system has been around since 2008 and will be moving into its 12th version this year. Tap or click here for everything you need to know about Android 12.
Android warning: Update now to avoid a serious security flaw
There are tons of reasons to use Android devices. Any Android fan can tell you that having an open-source operating system is a better choice for them over the other, more restrictive options.
That open-source platform means you not only have more app options, but you can also play amateur developer with your device. There are tons of third-party apps available for Android that aren’t available for iOS devices due to the security restrictions — and many more options for customizing your device. Tap or click here to see Android 11 features we’re most excited about.
Warning! 1 billion Android phones susceptible to hacking - find out if yours is at risk
Even though Apple was first to introduce its smartphone, there are more Android users worldwide. It’s true. Android overtook iPhone in market shares back in 2010 and has held the title ever since.
The sheer number of Android devices makes them prime targets for cybercriminals. That’s why malicious Android apps are popping up constantly. Tap or click here to see 17 apps you must delete ASAP.