I've been using Android phone since 2014, and so far, I haven't really grasped the threats or dangers of ransomware or malware that could target sensitive apps on my device.
As we know, Bitcoin wallets installed on Android aren't exactly strong against various threats. We use them for daily need, and the device frequently exposed to the internet. I've been pretty good at avoiding scams on WhatsApp or identifying phone scams. but... there are still many uncertainties about hacking, scams, or other forms of cyber attacks on android device.
I'm just curious about what I should be most cautious about when installing a Bitcoin wallet on my Android. What kinds of malware usually pose a threat to the security of my Android based wallet? What types of keyloggers should I be wary of to ensure the safety of my Bitcoin wallet on Android?
Maybe sharing experiences here could give me insights into what I should do and avoid to prevent any future problems.
I will quote good and reasonable answers on this topic so its easier to find the best answerSome good answer-cut-
Some Chinese phones probably have hidden code running on firmware level and you can't even detect it's there.
Even with best phones you are constantly connected to internet, so only way to make it more secure is to use secondary offline phone device.
This can be your old phone or hardware wallet with installed wallet, and this can be used with other hot wallet that is connected with internet.
Even better if you have Pixel phones, because you can install open source Graphene OS on them.
Some of the security measures you should be aware of are
- If possible, the primary wallet should be installed on a smartphone that you do not use intensively for internet and other online purposes.
- Do not install unknown apps, or apps from untrusted third parties, There will now be a warning about installing new apps.
There is Google Protect for Android which will provide information on whether the app is safe or not.
- Do not connect your device to unknown networks such as free Wifi in cafes or other places.
Some scammers usually trap their victims with Free Wifi.
- Remove apps that have lots of ads such as games and some apps that provide pop-up ads.
The beginning of malware comes from applications like that.
- Do not try to download programs from unknown sources.
- Do not try to download programs with low downloads from Google Play.
- Download only trusted applications that have thousands of downloads.
- Try to reduce the number of programs you download, as there is no need to download any application or game you like.
- Do not store seeds in digital form or give permissions to any application to do so, including keyboard.
- Check the address several times before sending.
- Avoid random browsing and linking your wallet to any service.
- Make the phone specific for sending Bitcoin and receiving calls.
