5 simple ways to improve your Android phone security today

This first piece of advice is a tough one for many to swallow. However, you should ask yourself if you really need that random, untrusted game found in the Google Play Store. The answer is probably not.

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Why is this so important? Because you never know what kind of malicious code is to be found lurking within an app or an ad framework for an app. In a perfect world, the stock apps found on your device should be enough. When you do want to download a third-party app, make sure it's from a trusted source like a large and reputable company. 

That said, do your research before downloading.

Continuing my previous point, stick to safe downloads. Using the Google Play Store makes safe downloads more likely. That's not to say that EVERY app on the platform can be trusted, but most of them have been carefully vetted. 

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Also, Android has a security feature that will send you a text if the internal security team notices that an app download looks harmful. 

Note that a high number of downloads does not mean the app is trustworthy.

Never, ever, ever tap a link in an SMS from a source you do not know! 

Any time you receive an SMS from an unknown source, assume it is an attempt to access your data or insert malicious code onto your device. And even if that SMS message seems to come from a reputable source, chances are still good it's a phishing attempt or worse. 

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On that note, don't reply to those messages -- not even to stop texting you. Either block or ignore the number, but don't engage.

Google releases regular security patches for the Android operating system and it's absolutely crucial that you install them. Those updates don't just contain new and exciting features. They also patch security vulnerabilities to keep you safe. 

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To check for an OS upgrade, go to Settings > System > System update.

But this doesn't just apply to the operating system. You also must regularly check for app updates. 

This process can be done from the Google Play Store. Simply, tap your profile image > Manage apps & device > Update all. You may also be able to set your phone to keep apps updated automatically.

The second you connect to an unsecured wireless network, you open yourself up to the possibility of having your packets sniffed or your device compromised. 

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If you find yourself wanting to connect to a network without a secure password, don't. Instead, connect to a data network or a trusted VPN service that can encrypt and randomize the data you send.

Among others, do stay away from an app called SuperVPN Free VPN Client (and free VPNs in general).