Custom ROMs are getting increasingly popular among Android users who are looking to customize their device’s operating system beyond the manufacturer’s capabilities. It’s an alternative Android OS created by enthusiasts that can offer additional features, improved performance, and much more.
However, one question that frequently arises among custom ROM users is whether it’s safe to use banking apps on these ROMs or not. Banking apps are critical for people, and they contain sensitive personal and financial information too, which raises security concerns.
That’s why, in this blog post, we’ll be exploring the topic of using banking apps on custom ROMs and examine the pros and cons of doing so, the security risks involved, and provide some practical tips to keep your financial information safe while operating a custom ROM.
Factors to Consider Before Using Banking Apps on Custom ROMs
When you consider using banking apps on your custom ROM, it’s essential to take certain factors into account that ensure the safety and security of your personal and financial data. Here’s a quick rundown of some of these factors:
Root Access
Root access can be abbreviated as the administrative privileges of your Android smartphone. While rooting your device can grant you more control over your device, it may also compromise its security. Keep in mind that not all custom ROMs come pre-rooted.
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However, there are many custom ROMs that still allow you to use your preferred banking apps while still rooted, with the help of tools like Magisk Hide.
SELinux
Security-Enhanced Linux, abbreviated as SELinux, is a kernel security module that features enhanced security features to keep your device safe. Some custom ROMs use SELinux in permissive mode, which may prevent you from using banking apps.
In that case, you must check the SELinux status of the custom ROM that you’re using to make sure that it’s in enforcing mode.
Developer’s Reputation
When it comes to installing custom ROMs, it’s necessary to choose a reputable developer. Not all developers have the same level of expertise, which means installing a ROM from an inexperienced or malicious developer can compromise your security and put your financial data at risk.
Auto Freeze
With the help of utilities like AuroraStore or Shelter, you can download banking apps and use them within a work profile, along with antifreeze to enhance security. This’ll make sure that the banking apps are only active when being used and won’t have access to other applications or data.
Pros and Cons of Custom ROMs
| Pros | Cons |
| Improved Performance | Potential Security Risks |
| Better Battery Life | Voided Warranties |
| More Customization Options | Incompatible With Some Apps |
| Ability to Remove Bloatware | |
| Up-to-date Android Versions |
Recommendations to Use Banking Apps with Custom ROMs
Now that you’ve considered all the factors listed above, weighed all the pros and cons, and have made up your mind to still use banking apps on custom ROMs, here are some expert recommendations to do so:
Use Reputable Custom ROMs
It’s crucial to choose your custom ROM from a reputable developer who keeps providing frequent bug fixes and security updates. Some of the popular and most trusted options include LineageOS and Paranoid Android.
These ROMs have active developer communities who’ve kept a good track record of providing stable and secure software for an array of Android devices.
Avoid Rooting Your Device
While rooting your smartphone can provide you seamless access to various features and customizations, it also sadly exposes your device to potential security risks. Moreover, some banking apps just don’t work at all on rooted devices.
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Use Shelter and AuroraStore
To install and use banking apps within a secure environment in your custom ROM, you can use Shelter or AuroraStore. The former is an app that allows you to create multiple work profiles on your device, which is kept completely separate from your personal profile.
You may consider downloading your preferred banking apps within these work profiles and enabling auto freeze, which will prevent these apps from running in the background when you’re not using them. The latter is an open-source app store that you can use to update apps without Google Play.
Final Words
While custom ROMs provide numerous advantages, including enhanced performance and a plethora of customization options, it’s important to consider the potential security risks. Make sure you keep the aforementioned information in mind to ensure the safety of your device and personal information.