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We all have good intentions when it comes to downloading apps that we believe will protect our phones and beef up our device’s security. Unfortunately, many of the apps marketed for this purpose fall short of delivering on our expectations. Burton Kelso, chief technology expert at Integral in Kansas City, spoke to SHEFinds.com about the one app you need to download today (as well as a few you really don’t need).
Anti-virus apps sound like a good idea in theory, but Kelso says they are actually on the top of his list of apps he recommends deleting off an iPhone. “99 percent of cybercrime requires user interaction so as long as you're not clicking on links, you're safe from most of the cyber threats out there,” Kelso says. “Also, if your phone is going to get infected, it's going to occur from downloading a bad app from the app store. Anti-virus apps can slow down your smartphone, so why have it installed.”
Instead of investing time in anti-virus apps, Kelso recommends downloading an app that will provide insight into how well your internet is functioning. “The best app you need on your smartphone is SpeedTest.net,” Kelso says.
The SpeedTest app allows you to see how fast your internet speed is on your smartphone, according to Kelso. “Doesn't matter if you're connected to your cellular connection or your wifi connection. Speedtest will help you troubleshoot when your connection is slow.”
Another perk: You can also run SpeedTest from time to time to see if your cellular provider or your internet provider is giving your the speeds you are paying for, Kelso says. Botton line: if you aren’t already using this app, it’s a great one to download if you want to keep on top of both your internet speed — and your provider. And it will prove far more beneficial than anti-virus apps.
