financial apps...are they secure?

[dylee92]

Hello all. This is my first day using android. Been a blackberry user for the past 5 yrs+.
Just downloaded a plethora of apps ie American Express, chase, fidelity.
Are these apps secure??

So far Im liking the droid.

 

[drdoom]

I'm assuming that if they are from the banking company you deal with that they already have your information. I doubt they feel like stealing information that they already have. Yeah, I'd say they are secure as long as you stick with those companies' apps.

 

[itsallgood]

I believe they are. I use Bank of America and US Bank app all the time. But, I set them up on the webtop first, my computer, before using the apps. You will really love the convenience of the apps. Make sure to only use a secure Wifi connection, when on Wifi, for all apps that use personal data. It is possible for someone to snatch your personal info. through the air. I only use cell data or my home secure Wifi.

 

[DocBeech]

I use the USAA app and its very secure. If you back out to the home screen I have to re login even if I never logged out.

The only thing that would change that is if you happen to install a program that records your key types. That could potentially steal passwords.

 

[wayrad]

The only thing that would change that is if you happen to install a program that records your key types. That could potentially steal passwords.

Not unless the keylogging app also has a way to transmit the info, i.e. internet access. Every keyboard app on the market records keypresses as part of its normal functioning, and this often causes unnecessary alarm among new users, hence the qualifier.

 

[dylee92]

thanks everyone.

 

[lunatic59]

Personally I would avoid apps that are general bank apps. I don't think banks that do not have independent apps for online banking access have completely worked out the security issues. Before Wachovia was acquired by Wells Fargo, they did not have a dedicated Android app, but some banking apps claimed they could connect your mobile device to your accounts. If memory serves, Wachovia recommended against using them.

On the other hand, I use the Wells Fargo app regularly and it seems to be very secure.

 

[Usta]

As long as we use them via mobile carrier or secure WiFi, I think the risk is acceptable.
I use myself couple of those for banking or trading on Stock Exchange.