With smartphones and tablets becoming more popular and powerful with each passing week, it's important to remember that, just like computers and laptops, mobile devices are also susceptible to viruses and malware. However, there are antivirus apps available for Android to make sure your phone or tablet is safe. Here are the best antivirus apps for Android.
Do you need antivirus apps for Android?
Unlike Apple, which only allow downloads from the iOS App Store to protect users from fake apps, Android allows you to install APK files, which could be infected with viruses and malware.
There is also a looser approval process for the Google Play Store, which means that dangerous apps can find their way into the store. And even when they've been removed from Google Play, they can still reappear.
You should also watch out for phishing emails and threatening ads, so regardless of the platform you use, it's a good idea to have an antivirus program installed.
Security software testing lab, AV-Test , has millions of different pieces of Android malware in its database. This malware is typically used to steal personal data from your phone without you knowing.
In addition to the traditional protection offered by antivirus applications, you may find that the application you have chosen has additional features.
A useful feature commonly found in Android antivirus apps is call blocking. If your phone is constantly receiving annoying calls or unwanted messages, you may be able to block those who are bothering you. Some apps offer the option to forward calls.
There are also some app managers that allow you to protect your access to browsers using a password – very useful for parents who give their children their phones to play games and are worried about them getting into something they shouldn't or charging their cards by purchasing apps.
Less useful are the backup settings found in some antivirus apps. Some simply create backups, which are generally already supported when you sign in to your Google account on an Android or iOS device. Other apps offer a small space to store your photos and files.
So, answering the original question, it's a good idea to install an antivirus app for your phone, for all the reasons mentioned above. There are many options, and here are the best ones.
Best Android antivirus 2019
Bitdefender Mobile Security
Available with a 14-day free trial, Bitdefender Mobile Security managed to score a perfect score in both real-time malware detection and malware detection on Android platforms during AV-Tests testing in November 2018.
It's also the best Windows antivirus, and if you sign up for the full package for your computer, you can also use it on your mobile device at no extra cost.
It has anti-theft features, works on wearables, gives you web security alongside a privacy advisor, and most importantly, it has a very effective malware scanner. There is also a new VPN feature available.
However, there is no parental control feature and you cannot block calls and create backups.
Norton Mobile Security
A second option, also popular with PC users, is Norton Mobile Security. It received a 100% rating in the latest AV-Tests report.
You'll get the usual antivirus features as well as controls for privacy protection, recovery of lost or stolen devices, and some backup capabilities.
You can also share a single account with multiple devices, even non-Android devices. Alternatively, subscribing to the Deluxe version gives you access to Norton Security for five devices, including PCs and Macs.
Kaspersky Internet Security for Android
Another great mobile option is Kaspersky, with a score of 99.9% for real-time detection and 100% for the latest Android malware released.
It offers a huge range of features beyond the antivirus itself, including phone finder, anti-theft, anti-phishing, call blocking, and web filter.
Sophos Mobile Security
A top scorer in AV-Test's latest report, Sophos Mobile Security for Android is one of the best free antivirus apps and includes antivirus features such as app scanning, spam protection, and privacy protection that can detect apps that access personal data.
Additionally, loss and theft protection features include remotely locking and wiping your device, the ability to remotely activate an alarm, and the ability to locate your device if you lose it.
McAfee Mobile Security
The McAfee Mobile Security app scored 100% and is available for free. It includes the usual antivirus features, but also anti-theft features, performance-boosting tools, a battery optimizer, and privacy tools that let you limit which apps collect your information.
Avast Mobile Security
The Avast Mobile Security app is completely free, but it didn’t score well in our last review. However, it still scores above the industry average, so it’s a good choice if you’re looking for a free antivirus for Android.
Features include app lock, call blocking, app permissions, and a firewall to keep you safe from malware and viruses.
AVG Antivirus Free for Android
Similarly, AVG is a free option that didn't quite achieve perfect results in our latest tests. AVG and Avast are owned by the same company, so it's no surprise that they use the same technology and therefore scored similarly.
The downside here is that if you want additional features like app lock, Camera Trap, device lock, and App Backup you will need to get the Pro version, after your 30-day free trial is over.
