AVG's solutions to protect Android devices

Unfortunately, this same spirit of openness that is responsible for populating the Android App Market and Google Play with apps - many of which are available free of charge - is also Android's Achilles heel. Hackers have found it irresistible to create numerous viruses, malware and scams designed to specifically target Android users.

With so many Android devices being used for banking, shopping and e-mail, the average user's handset contains a lot of sensitive information that hackers will try and get their hands on. Although the attacks take many forms, the aim is almost always to extort money from the victims.

First logical step

While this may make you want to lock away your smartphone in the nearest drawer, or at least disable your device's data settings, there are less drastic steps that you can take to ensure that your Android remains protected from hackers and malicious code writers, says Bruce Goodwill, AVG's sales director in EMEA, Latin America and Australia.

The first logical step is to download a mobile security app to your device, such as AVG's Mobilation Anti-Virus Free app. Designed to protect your device by scanning new apps for malware and viruses before you install them, it also provides users with the ability to remotely locate, wipe, or lock their device in the event of theft.

"You can also lock those files and apps on your device that you don't want others to see or use," says Goodwill. "Use AVG Mobilation Anti-Virus Lock Pro to lock your apps and keep your private data safe. When installing new apps on your Android device, also make sure to review the permissions requested by the particular application, and only approve those permissions that you are comfortable with and which you think are appropriate for you."

Update is like a new installation

Goodwill also emphasises that consumers should keep in mind that installing an update of an app is like a new installation. "There are new permissions that may be added, which will change the functionality and background processes of the app."

Another safety precaution is that consumers should be careful where they download apps from. "Only download apps from app stores that you can trust and try to read the reviews and comments to see if there were complaints about security, such as detected malware or spyware. Also check the URL to be sure that you are not on a clone or fraud site."

The same applies for mobile banking. "Make sure that you only use the official apps from your bank or financial institution for online banking or financial transactions. As you probably already know, do not enter your phone number, ID number, address or any other personal identification or banking details on unofficial and suspicious looking sites," Goodwill advises. "Check the URL and call your bank or vendor to make sure the website address, ad, link, or text message that you think looks suspicious is indeed from them."