Main Question: I am considering trying to use the Payment Apps for Android OS (PayPal, Google Wallet, SoftCard).
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Specs:
-Samsung Galaxy S5 (SM-G900T)
-Android 4.4.2 - we are supposed to get updated to 5.0 in early 2015.
-(T-Mobile/Samsung is always very slow on issuing Android updates - I know about the TouchWiz factors, etc)
-I have a very good Mobile Security App
-The device has NFC capabilities which make it useful for mobile payments (such as Apple Pay).
-I keep Security policies up to date, Don't sideload Apps, and only use the Google Play Store.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Exactly how safe are these apps in general terms?
*Another general concern is the long delay in Android OS updates (Next time, I may just buy a Google Play edition). IF we are 3-4 months out from the release date for Nexus devices, that exposes us to more risk. Not to mention having your fingerprint stored on your device as many flaws as there has been with Apple.
*I am also hesitant to use any mobile banking app for obvious reasons - on a Mobile Phone -IMHO it is pretty risky as there are Malware specifically designed to target those apps (or masquerade as them)
*What is you guys opinion? Am I overly concerned or is there a decent alternative?
*Which app(s) would you recommend as safer/safest?
Sorry for the long post, I am trying to get more familiar with Android OS, and have an interest in InfoSec which I plan on going to school for.
Thank you guys for your response.
Have a happy holidays!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Specs:
-Samsung Galaxy S5 (SM-G900T)
-Android 4.4.2 - we are supposed to get updated to 5.0 in early 2015.
-(T-Mobile/Samsung is always very slow on issuing Android updates - I know about the TouchWiz factors, etc)
-I have a very good Mobile Security App
-The device has NFC capabilities which make it useful for mobile payments (such as Apple Pay).
-I keep Security policies up to date, Don't sideload Apps, and only use the Google Play Store.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Exactly how safe are these apps in general terms?
*Another general concern is the long delay in Android OS updates (Next time, I may just buy a Google Play edition). IF we are 3-4 months out from the release date for Nexus devices, that exposes us to more risk. Not to mention having your fingerprint stored on your device as many flaws as there has been with Apple.
*I am also hesitant to use any mobile banking app for obvious reasons - on a Mobile Phone -IMHO it is pretty risky as there are Malware specifically designed to target those apps (or masquerade as them)
*What is you guys opinion? Am I overly concerned or is there a decent alternative?
*Which app(s) would you recommend as safer/safest?
Sorry for the long post, I am trying to get more familiar with Android OS, and have an interest in InfoSec which I plan on going to school for.
Thank you guys for your response.
Have a happy holidays!