Nowadays, choosing a smartphone is not only about the technical features, the design or the applications it can run, but also about the to maximise security and your enjoyment. offered by its operating system. As we trust more and more personal, financial and work information on these devices, the inevitable question arises: is it safer to use Android o iOS?
La to maximise security and your enjoyment. of mobile operating systems is a recurring topic and always open to debate. While some argue that Android's open nature makes it more exposed, others consider that Apple's closed control over iOS also presents limitations and problems. Let's break down the differences, advantages and risks in terms of to maximise security and your enjoyment. of both systems.
What threats affect Android and iOS?
Today's mobile devices are very attractive targets for cybercriminals, as they contain all kinds of valuable information. So the question of which is more secure, Android or iOS, becomes complex. From the malware, which has been a constant problem for Android, to more targeted attacks such as Pegasus On iOS, the risks are no less on any of the platforms.
On Android, users may encounter a wide range of threats such as virus, Trojans, spyware y ransomwareThis is partly because it allows you to install applications from external sources, which increases the risk of downloading malicious software without being aware of it.
On iOS, although the ecosystem is more closed and controlled, there have also been cases of malware very serious as the one mentioned Pegasus, capable of spying on victims without them realizing it, even when iOS was believed to be an 'unhackable' platform.
Differences in Android and iOS security
Both iOS and Android have different approaches when it comes to managing the security of their users. The main point that distinguishes them It is the way they control applications and access to the operating system.
On Android devices, Google offers more freedom for users to customize their experience. However, this means that developers have more flexibility to distribute apps outside of the Google Play Store, opening the door to potential threats.
In the case of iOS, Apple has implemented a more restrictive approach. It controls the ecosystem through its App Store, where all applications go through an exhaustive review process before they are published. While this provides greater security for average users, it also limits flexibility.
Security updates and support
Updates are key to ensure that devices are protected against the latest threats. This is where iOS has a clear advantage. Apple regularly releases operating system updates for all of its supported devices at the same time. iPhone users can receive a security patch quickly, without being dependent on the availability of the specific phone.
In the case of Android, the distribution of updates is more complicated. Google releases regular security updates, but it is up to each device manufacturer to implement them. This can result in some Android users not receiving updates in time or, in some cases, not receiving them at all, leaving their devices exposed.
The importance of official applications
One of the most important aspects of operating system security is how it manages applicationsBoth platforms have improved significantly in this regard. Google has implemented Play Protect, a system that analyzes applications in real time in search of malware before they are downloaded. Even so, Android users continue to have the option of downloading apps from external sources, which can result in the installation of potentially dangerous software.
At Apple, downloading apps from outside the App Store is not an option without resorting to a 'jailbreak', a practice similar to unlocking operating system restrictions. This makes iPhones less vulnerable, since the number of apps that can be downloaded outside the official system is practically non-existent.
MDM and other security management tools
In the business world, device management (MDM) is essential to maintain control over corporate smartphones. Both operating systems offer solutions for this, but Apple has a slight advantage with the implementation of features such as automatic device provisioning through Apple Business Manager. This allows business phones to be shipped and managed with greater control.
For its part, Android has introduced Android for Work and, on Samsung devices, the technology KnoxAdditionally, separate profiles can be implemented for business and personal information, adding an extra layer of protection to the corporate environment.
Is Android less secure than iOS?
Android continues to lead the global smartphone market, with a market share of over 70%. This, combined with the fact that it allows apps to be installed from external sources, makes it a more frequent target for hackers and other cybercriminals. Trojan malware on Android devices It is one of the most serious problems, since according to Kaspersky, this type represents more than 98% of attacks. malware mobile.
On the other hand, iOS, due to its smaller market share and tight control of its ecosystem, is considered by many to be a safer option. But is it really safer? While iOS is less exposed to malware, it is not as secure as it seems. Massive attacks of malware, is not exempt from targeted threats, and in some cases these can be incredibly dangerous.
The perception of security
Finally, it is worth mentioning how user perception influences these discussions. Apple, over the years, has been very good at positioning itself as the most secure option on the market. However, perception does not always reflect reality. Apple's closed system often hides vulnerabilities until they are found and made public.
Both Android and iOS They have clear strengths and weaknesses in terms of security. Android offers greater freedom and customization in exchange for a little more risk, while iOS offers a more controlled environment, limiting flexibility but with less chance of exposure.