Tips for the safe use of apps

• Only install required apps:

Every additional app harbours a security risk, even if it appears to be reputable. Almost all software has security vulnerabilities. Free apps in particular can quickly install potentially unwanted programmes (PUP) such as false antivirus protection or adware. Adware displays unwanted adverts.

• Use trustworthy sources:

Only install apps from trusted sources, such as the smartphone manufacturers’ preset app stores and markets.

• Check app permissions:

Check which functions the app wants to access. Depending on the operating system, you can see before installation which permissions the app will receive after installation. Make sure that apps only access the functions that are necessary for their intended purpose. Be sceptical if a casino app wants to access the SMS or picture function, for example. Decide critically whether to accept the permissions or not to install the app.

• Do some research if you are unsure:

If you are unsure whether an app is trustworthy, a quick internet search can often help. Here you will be quickly informed if an app contains malware or the casino is not trustworthy.

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Update tips

• Regular updates:
  Check regularly whether updates are available for apps and the operating system and install them immediately.
• Be careful with updates:
  Be careful not only when installing new apps, but also with updates. Updates can be used to give a trusted app additional access rights. Avoid automatic updates of apps and install the updates manually to check the rights again.

Usage tips

• Watch the status bar:
  Pay attention to the icons in the status bar of your smartphone. These indicate when an app is collecting location data or activating wireless interfaces. If GPS or Bluetooth are active without you having switched them on, check which apps are currently active.
• Delete unnecessary apps:
  Delete apps that you no longer use. This reduces potential security risks and frees up storage space.

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Android permissions and their importance for online casinos

Android has around 160 different permissions, which are categorised by Google into groups and security levels. These groups are used to sort the authorisations, but say nothing about their security. The “normal” and “dangerous” groups are particularly relevant for users, as their authorisations must be confirmed when an app is installed. Of the defined Android authorisations, 60 have the security level “dangerous”.

Security levels and risks

Authorisations with the security level “dangerous” harbour the risk that functions can be misused. Internet criminals could compromise your device and spy on private data.

Non-relevant authorisations for online casinos

Certain Android authorisations are irrelevant for online casinos. Examples of this are

• Send text messages
• Read contact details
• Read social stream
• Read calendar appointments and confidential information
• Precise (GPS) location
• Unrestricted internet access
• Record hardware controls such as images and videos

Conclusion

When installing online casino apps, you should pay attention to which authorisations the app requests. The above-mentioned authorisations should not be required for a reputable online casino app. Always check whether the requested authorisations are plausible and necessary for the purpose of the app. This protects your personal data and your privacy.