6: Do lock your apps
There are apps in the Google Play Store that allow you to secure other apps with passwords. This means you can
choose which apps you want to password protect. Once protected, those apps can be opened only after entering
the required password. No password, no entry. One of the best apps for this purpose is AppLock. It is reliable,
easy to use, free, and does the job without adding so many bells and whistles as to complicate the process.
7: Do manage your app permissions
Thanks to Android Marshmallow, managing app permissions is finally in the hands of the end user. This means
you can remove permission for an app to say, access the device mic or camera. For example, you do not want
Facebook to be able to use your location. You can now disable that particular feature from the app. To do this, go
to Settings | Apps and then tap the gear icon and tap App Permissions. The system is straightforward and does a
great job of empowering the user. Just make sure you do not disable permissions for system apps (which are
hidden, by default, in the Permissions Manager window).
8: Don't use open Wi-Fi networks
If you are at a coffee shop and its wireless network is not password protected, do not use it—especially if you will
be transmitting sensitive information. If you find yourself faced with an open wireless situation, use your carrier
network instead. If you have no choice, use one of the many VPN services available (such as TunnelBear VPN).
When using an open network through a VPN connection your data will at least be encrypted and a bit more
challenging to steal.
9: Don't install apps from a third party
You may be tempted to install that really cool sounding Android app from a third party. Do not. You never know
whether that app might contain a dangerous piece of malware that could walk away with your sensitive
information. Limit yourself to only installing from the Google Play Store. Even then, read the reviews of the app in
question before installing. A few minutes of your time to check into an app (prior to installation) will be well
worth the effort.
10: Do add your device with the Device Manager
Google has this handy tool called the Android Device Manager. Once your device is added, you can track it if it is
lost—or even remotely wipe it, should you fear that your sensitive data could become compromised. To enable
this feature, go to Settings | Google | Security and then tap to switch on both Remotely Locate This Device and
Allow Remote Lock and Erase. You should do this immediately with your device. If you do not, and you lose your
device, the Device Manager will do you no good.
Bonus tip: Do use the guest account feature
When handing over your device to another user (for whatever reason), make use of the guest account feature. If
you pull down the notification shade (on Marshmallow, you must do this twice), you will see a small icon
representing your user account. Tap that icon and you can then add a guest user. Once added, when you hand
that device over, tap the user icon to switch to the guest account. Making use of this system means the guest
user cannot access your data (unless they know your security password/PIN/pattern).