An APK, also known as an Android Package Kit, is a file format that contains all files and assets that are necessary for an application to run on the Android operating system (OS).
What is an APK used for?
Android devices utilize APKs to distribute mobile apps and install them on the device. When installing a new application from the Google Play Store, users download an APK that is automatically installed by the Android OS.
What is the difference between an app and an APK?
An APK is essentially an installer file that works similarly to a ZIP file, compressing elements such as the Manifest file, the application certificate, assets, and the AndroidManifest.xml file, which contains the application’s name, version, and access rights. On the other hand, applications refer to the actual software that end-users use or interact with.
How does an APK get installed?
When users download an app from the Google Play Store or any other source, they are essentially downloading an APK file. Once downloaded, the Android system simply unpacks the APK and then installs the app.
Is APK safe or not?
APK files should be safe to install when downloaded from a reputable source such as the Google Play Store. Though the Google Play Store is the most common hub for official APKs, some publishers also allow users to download official APKs directly from their websites.
While APK files are not illegal or unsafe, downloading APKs outside of the official store could mean that the application did not undergo rigorous screening, opening the app up to potential vulnerabilities. Additionally, many cybercriminals can inject harmful code into seemingly harmless APKs, allowing them to infect mobile devices. This can lead to dire consequences such as data breaches or device malfunction.
How to secure devices when using APKs
Considering how cybercriminals can disguise malware as APKs or add compromising coding, securing a mobile device requires control over what APKs are installed on it. Avoid sideloading, which refers to downloading APKs from unofficial sources. APKs downloaded from unofficial sources do not undergo rigorous testing and scanning, leaving devices vulnerable to cyberattacks.
For businesses and managed service providers (MSPs), employing mobile device management (MDM) software significantly enhances IT security for their entire mobile fleet. MDM software offers a variety of tools that allow users to monitor, manage, and secure Android systems at scale. Here are some ways that MDM solutions can secure Android devices from potentially harmful APKs:
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Remote monitoring
Monitoring mobile devices remotely in real-time allows IT security professionals to receive alerts of suspicious activity and resolve issues quickly. MDM software also provides a full inventory of the software installed on every mobile device.
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Application management
IT teams can whitelist applications to create a list of approved software, ensuring only safe APKs are installed. MDM software also allows users to manage mobile applications and distribute, update, or remove unauthorized apps to enhance mobile device security further.
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Security policies
MDM software enables IT administrators to enforce security protocols to ensure that mobile devices adhere to industry regulations or organizational requirements. This can include configurations and installed applications, further ensuring protection from harmful APKs.
Conclusion
Understanding APKs and how they work within Android systems allows end-users and IT professionals to follow best practices when installing mobile applications. Internal IT departments and MSPs can ensure IT security and optimal mobile device performance by ensuring that only trusted and secure applications are installed on mobile devices. Investing in Android MDM software allows IT teams to manage, monitor, and secure a business’s IT environment and boost productivity.
