How do you know if an app is trustworthy?

[bayleeann]

I am new to this whole app thing, and I believe that I may have downloaded an app (or apps) that have caused my phone some harm, so I would like to know if there is something out there that can maybe tell you if an app is a legitimate one... does anyone know how I can find this out?  And if I install an antivirus on my phone (like AVG from the market) does that block those type of apps?  Otherwise, I am half tempted to not download apps anymore... and if that's the case, why even have a Droid??

[droidsw]

Install the app Lookout Mobile Security by Lookout Inc. It scans other apps when installed and after updates.

Can't offer opinions about AVG, but Lookout was on top of the virus attack several weeks back.

Google also identified and pulled known malicious apps from the market and even pulled them from some phones.

The iphone store has a reputation of being "safer" but there is always the chance for evildoers to infiltrate smartphones, computers, etc. But it's not enough of a concern that would drive me away from android.

You weren't specific what type of "harm" you think has happened to your phone.

Be aware that an app conflict is different than permanent "harm". There are some apps that do not function properly with some phones. Be sure and read the comments section before downloading any app.

Android apps have to function across several manufacturers (Moto, HTC, etc) and more than one carrier, that add their own "add-ons" (bloatware) to the android operating system creating a complicated situation for writing apps that will function without conflicts.

You might try unistalling all your apps and performing a hard (factory) reset. That should bring your phone back to it's original out-of-the-box condition.

[Zrock02]

Also make sure you read what access you are authorizing the app. A lot of the apps will add extra stuff like access to contacts and messages when it's not needed. Just read a few reviews as well before just downloading away.

[AZSALUKI · Accepted solution]

read the reviews and the rating. i personally wotn download anything with less than 4 out of 5 stars. i also read MANY reviews to see what people that are using my device say about it. some apps work great with some androids, but not well with others. and finally.....download 1 or 2 at a time. then use your phone for a couple days before you download more. this way, if it starts acting up, you will at least know which app caused it. when you download a bunch at a time it makes it difficult to pinpoint which app is causing your problems.

[HazelEyedGemini]

Where do you get  Lookout Mobile Security by Lookout Inc from?

[Ann154]

It is downloaded from the Android Market.

https://market.android.com/details?id=com.lookout&feature=search_result

[Tidbits]

I all honesty...  Lookout is only good for find my phone feature.  With Android still being in its infancy more than likely Lookout won't save you as far as virus protection goes.  That goes with ANY virus protection software.  If someone wants that info they'll get it.  You have to hope someone finds the flaw before someone with ill-intent finds it to fix it.  For example the recent apps that were pulled from the market.  Lookout doesn't have a fix for them until AFTER the fact, and people were already affected.

If you are worried about it that much make sure you see if the company has a GE license.  If they don't then don't purchase any of their applications unless you they have a creditable reputation outside of the market(XDA for example).  The root community there if they find any "suspicious" apps word travels fast there.

[clickymcghee]

What is a "GE" license? And where would it say it, or where do I find it? Thanks.

[Wildman]

Ithink they are speaking about a General Excise license that a individual usually apply for to operate as a business but I was under the impression that was mainly implamited for Hawaii more that other states, I could be wrong because I havent researched that is some while... 

[Tidbits]

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Wildman wrote:

Ithink they are speaking about a General Excise license that a individual usually apply for to operate as a business but I was under the impression that was mainly implamited for Hawaii more that other states, I could be wrong because I havent researched that is some while... 

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he is correct That's a Hawaii thing, and I used it in place of something different.  Here in Hawaii a GE is needed on top of a Business License. It varies by state, and since they go through all the trouble to get their licenses most of the time they tend to be more "safe" 

I believe I paid around $669 for my licensing here...  Would have been cheaper if I was in any other state that is not New York lol.