I still have time to return this tablet and receive a refund, but I have been wondering if I could achieve a sufficient degree of isolation so that I could use it exclusively for fun things like YouTube while making sure it has none of my existing accounts/details on it.

I had just started this process by adding it to my Router’s Guest WIFI Network with a unique generated “strong name and strong password” before I read your article.

This is my first tablet and like many, I was drawn to the budget end of the tablet range without realizing the “hidden” consequences of doing so.

Would you comment on whether the following steps would be sufficient to ensure the safety of my Windows 10 PC (connected via cable to my router with the tablet being on the guest network)

1. Reset the tablet as I had already added my existing Google Account details during the initial setup before finding out that there were no Android Security Updates available. (I bought my first smartphone over a year ago and it still receives Android security updates).

2. Setup the Tablet for ISOLATION, by creating a new Google Account just for it so that I can access and stay with the Play Store (not perfect, as you say). I will then download just a few apps as a unique and separate user. I will not purchase any apps – no payment details.

3. I will completely avoid adding any of my existing personal/account information in any way eg. I will NOT add my everyday email address. I did not have any IOT devices but I have just recently bought an Amazon Echo (via Amazon’s five interest free payment option) which was added to the Guest Network just before the Tablet arrived.

4. I have read that my router has a good isolation between the main and guest networks. The router is up to date and I’ve ensured that good security options have been selected for it.

5. I would add Bitdefender (NOT what I use on my PC), the VirusTotal app to scan apps for a second opinion, and Malwarebytes Free. I would also observe everyday “safe” web use advice.

If an adequate degree of isolation cannot be achieved then I have just enough time to return the tablet but,as my first ever tablet, it does temp me and it would be very useful just for YouTube.

However personal security is paramount, and so I wonder if these steps would be enough.

Indeed I know many people who operate on a budget and I am beginning to suspect that they are effectively priced-out of safe web use via affordable tablet and smartphone – I at least, can return my tablet if that were necessary but I would miss it as I think it could be very useful.

Thank you.

I would recycle that and buy something modern. There are patches out almost monthly. Once you fall behind, you are taking chances.

It is interesting how defensive Android people are without helping others with security tips. Keep in mind that I have Android devices and have recycled several.

As we say below:

If you have an Android Smartphone that DOES NOT get the latest Android security updates any more, we would recommend you REPLACE the smartphone with a new one that does. Recycle the phone, do not give to someone else.

If you read our article, you will see major problems with Android

Security patches not being sent out to phones due to economic reasons. There are millions of phones that will never get the latest fixes. The users are oblivious. The only fix is to buy a new phone.

Do you have any tips for securing Android?