ANDROID users who follow dangerous phone myths are putting themselves at risk from Big Brother-style spying.
The platform has long had a reputation for being more vulnerable to malware than iOS due to its open nature.
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Yet many real threats today are not where most users think they are.
The myths surrounding Android malware can give users a false sense of security and lead to risky behaviour.
Here are EIGHT of the most common Android malware myths that put your phone at risk – and what you should be doing instead.
Malware only comes from outside the Play Store
The truth is bad actors are increasingly using sophisticated methods to avoid detection.
One of the most common misconceptions is that Android malware only originates from sketchy websites, pirated APKs, or unofficial app stores. While these are certainly higher risk, they are not the only sources of malicious software.
Increasingly, malware is showing up in apps that appear completely legitimate.
Some sneak through Google Play’s review process, posing as flashlight tools, camera filters, VPNs, or even educational games.
These apps may work as advertised, but quietly harvest user data, inject adware, or install background services that are hard to detect.
Some use delayed activation, waiting days or weeks to execute harmful behaviour.
While the Play Store is safer than most third-party stores, it is not immune to malware.
Always check permissions, reviews, developer history, and download counts before installing apps.
Avoid sideloading APKs unless you trust the source and understand the risks. Don’t assume every app on the Play Store is safe.
You’re safe if your phone runs Android 13 or later
Not true. Threats keep adapting to OS changes.
While older Android versions are more vulnerable to malware – especially those not receiving security updates – that doesn’t mean newer versions are entirely safe.
Even with Android 15’s improved security features, malware campaigns continue to evolve with more sophisticated evasion techniques.
Many malware threats rely on social engineering and trick users into giving up sensitive data or granting unnecessary permissions.
Newer Android versions can limit what apps can do in the background, but they can’t protect you from every human error.
To stay safe, always be wary of apps asking for extra permissions. Malware can manipulate users into giving access, irrespective of the phone’s Android version.
Remember that safe behaviour is as crucial as system-level defences.
You only need an antivirus app to stay safe on Android
Another dangerous myth.
Many antivirus apps on Android are more about marketing than real protection.
They often run persistent background processes, drain the battery, and serve ads while offering little beyond what Google Play Protect already does.
In reality, Android is built on a permission-based sandbox model that limits what apps can access.
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You probably don’t need a third-party antivirus application if you’re not sideloading random apps or tapping suspicious links.
Some so-called security apps may also contain malware, or at the very least, aggressively collect user data. Ironically, users install them to feel secure, not realising they might be introducing more risk. Instead of downloading antivirus apps, focus on good digital hygiene.
Don’t grant unnecessary permissions, keep your OS up to date, avoid sketchy apps, and use Google’s built-in security features to protect your phone.
You’ll know right away if your phone is infected
Another popular myth is that malware instantly attacks your phone when you download it.
While there are rare advanced persistent threats, most Android malware is less dramatic and more about stealthy profit-making.
For example, they might steal your credentials, record calls, show fraudulent ads, or subscribe to paid services.
Some spyware can operate for months without noticeable symptoms, especially if disguised as a system app.
These types of malware often operate quietly in the background, draining your battery or mobile data.
You may not notice them for days or even weeks.
Watch for warning signs like overheating, unexpected data usage, performance lags, or strange notifications.
Run a manual scan with Play Protect and check which apps can access your background data or display over other apps.
Factory resetting your phone removes all malware
In many cases, a factory reset will wipe malware from your phone.
However, advanced malware can persist, especially if installed in the system partition or preloaded on the device by a malicious vendor.
Some threats can survive resets or reinstall themselves through a hidden dropper.
A factory reset is not a guaranteed fix.
If your phone remains compromised, you may need to reflash the firmware or use special tools provided by security vendors.
Rooted phones are always at risk
Rooting your phone bypasses some built-in security features, which can increase your exposure to threats.
But this does not automatically mean your device is compromised.
You can still secure your rooted devices by limiting root access, using firewalls, and restricting permissions.
Rooting expands both the risks and your control. If you understand the tradeoffs and take steps to mitigate vulnerabilities, a rooted phone is not necessarily a magnet for malware.
VPNs protect you from all malware
VPNs are great for encrypting your internet traffic and hiding your IP address, but they don’t offer comprehensive malware protection.
They won’t stop you from installing a malicious app, clicking a phishing link, or falling victim to a fake login page.
Although many VPN providers offer malware filters, they’re limited in scope.
VPNs are a privacy tool, not an antivirus replacement. You can use them as part of your security toolkit, but they should not be your only line of defence.
Google Play Protect is all you need against malware
Google Play Protect is a valuable built-in defense mechanism. It scans apps for malware before and after installation and regularly checks for suspicious behavior.
However, it has limitations.
It may not detect sophisticated threats, especially those with delayed activation or encrypted payloads.
Play Protect is a helpful security measure, but it is not foolproof.
For complete protection, keep your device updated, use permission controls wisely, and be selective about the apps you install, even those from the Play Store.
Eight most dangerous myths
The following myths can give users a false sense of security and lead to risky behaviour. Don’t get caught out.
- Malware only comes from outside the Play Store
- You’re safe if your phone runs Android 13 or later
- You only need an antivirus app to stay safe on Android
- You’ll know right away if your phone is infected
- Factory resetting your phone removes all malware
- Rooted phones are always at risk
- VPNs protect you from all malware
- Google Play Protect is all you need against malware
