Android is an open source software stack that includes an operating system developed by Google and the Open Handset Alliance. It uses the Java programming language and has the largest market share of any mobile operating system. Android provides security through sandboxes, permissions, and signatures to isolate apps and detect unauthorized changes. Some common mobile threats include malware apps, drive-by exploits, and vulnerabilities in the web browser. Users can help protect themselves by only installing apps from trusted sources, checking app permissions, avoiding sensitive info on public WiFi, and using antivirus software and passwords.