Safely downloading apps

The official app store

The safest place to get new apps for your device is via that device’s official app store. This store comes pre-installed on your device, and you can access it via its icon.

Different devices have different stores

The official app store for Apple’s range of iPhones and iPads is called the App Store. Android devices can use the Google Play Store. Many also come with a store from the manufacturer of the device, for example Samsung’s Galaxy Store.

eSafety tip

You should always ignore any message, email, or website link that offers to download apps for you outside an official app store. These apps are almost always scams designed to steal your personal information. Only install apps from your device’s official app store.

What do apps cost?

Many apps are free but some cost money, either as a single purchase or a monthly subscription.

When you search for an app on the app store for your device, it will show either:

• The word Install (Play store) or Get (App Store), which means the app is free to install.
• An amount such as $3.49, which means if you want the app, you need to pay $3.49 before you can download it.

What do apps cost? (continued)

After you pay for an app, you can delete it and download it again as many times as you like, even if you get a new phone.

Some free apps are just a free trial. Once the app is installed, it may show a screen that explains what extra features you will get if you purchase the app.

How to pay for apps

When you first open Google Play or the App Store, you will need to sign in with a Google Account or Apple ID and provide a payment method. You can use a credit card, a debit card, Google Pay, or Apple Gift Card vouchers that you can purchase at a supermarket or other stores.

eSafety tip

Your Google Account (for Android) or Apple ID (for iPhone) helps keep your credit card safe. When you make a purchase, you only need to confirm the CCV number, which are the three or four digits on the back or front of your credit card, rather than type out your whole credit card number every time.

Accidentally paying for apps

It’s easy to accidentally tap on the button that says you want to pay for an app, but the Play store and App Store will ask if you are sure you want the app. Your credit card will only be charged once you confirm that you really do want to purchase the app.

Official app store apps are safer

Before an app becomes available for sale or free download on the Play store or App Store, Google and Apple review it to help ensure it is safe and doesn’t contain viruses or software that can steal your data. Android phones also have a feature called Play Protect that periodically scans your device for harmful software and will help you remove it.

eSafety tip

When you first use a downloaded app, it might ask permission to access personal information on your phone. Only give permission for features that are appropriate for the app, and only when using the app.

For example, a maps app might ask for permission to see your location. You can say yes, but only while you are using the app. If you don’t give permission, the app might not work properly.

Well done!

This is the end of the Safely downloading apps activity. You’ve learned about your device’s official app store and how to get apps for your device.

Up next, in the Choosing apps for your device activity, you will learn how to tell if an app is safe to use.