Surely every user of a smartphone or tablet running on Google’s operating system wondered: do you need an anti-virus for Android? Is the system vulnerable to such attacks in the same way as Windows? If there is a threat, what steps should be taken to secure your personal data and finances? Which antivirus is the best?
Do I need antivirus software on Android?
In fact, there are two completely opposite opinions about whether to install antivirus on Android. Supporters of the first, which are most often the developers of such programs themselves, believe that they can not do without them. Others, on the contrary, are inclined to think that antiviruses are of no use, and it’s enough not to install applications from dubious sources. However, part of the truth is present in both opinions, and she, as always, is in the middle. Separately, you may wonder if you need an antivirus on your Android tablet. Indeed, in most of them there is no possibility of connecting a SIM card, respectively, it is impossible to steal money from an account and even contact details. But do not forget about the possible harm by stealing passwords from accounts or bank data.
Reasons to Install Antivirus Software
Google itself tried to solve the security problem, and it turned out pretty well. Starting with version 4.2, “Android” has a function of checking applications during installation, which monitors internal threats well. However, this does not save against external threats, such as malware from a personal computer, from the network or disguised as an application. As you can see, the question whether an antivirus is needed on "Android 4.2" and higher, or only for earlier versions, is quite relevant. Note that the need to install the appropriate software exists for everyone who wants to protect their device. There are several fairly good reasons for this:
1. The presence of a huge amount of malware on various sites and even in the "Application Store".
2. Reliable backup and storage of data.
3. Protection of the gadget in case of loss or theft.
4. Scanning the external and internal memory of the device for viruses from the outside.
5. Many sites that are unsafe to visit from mobile devices.
In a word, installing an antivirus is quite advisable if you want to protect your gadget from threats. So do you need an antivirus on your Android smartphone? Let's look at the most popular applications designed to provide protection, and we'll figure it out.
Avast Mobile Security & Antivirus
The application has a wide range of security features. Here, in addition to the antivirus itself, the possibilities of remotely locking the device, searching for it on the map, tracking the thief using the front camera, prohibiting voice calls and text messaging are presented. There is also application blocking with the ability to restrict access to mobile networks and Wi-Fi.
The antivirus part itself works mediocre, skipping some infected applications and phishing text messages. However, the application has decent functionality, which can also be expanded for an additional fee.
Kaspersky Internet Security
Do I need anti-virus on Android? Kaspersky Lab answers this question in the affirmative. She released a single application for smartphones and tablets based on the Android OS, combining all the main functions of the antivirus in it. The program closely monitors all attempts of malicious content to break into your device, but to expand the functionality you will have to fork out, because protecting the Internet browser and checking files is not included in the basic functionality.
The application contains all the main features: determining the location of the device over connected networks, secretly photographing a thief, the ability to leave instructions on the lock screen for those who want to return a lost gadget. PIN protection of certain contacts and blocking of communication functions will also be in demand.
Norton Mobile Security
Norton is known to many users for its security software. The mobile application monitors virus attempts to break through the browser well, offers wide anti-theft and other functions. A feature is the scanning of content installed from the "Application Store".
However, blocking calls is not very convenient to use and not effective enough, and the function of resetting the settings to the factory state only clears some personal files and contacts. The plus is that all the functionality is available absolutely free.
Dr.Web Security Space
Doctor Web's antivirus solution contains all the functions that users can expect from a quality application. Firewall, protection against spam, theft, checking the device for malicious code - all this is present in the development of the most famous company and works perfectly. The pluses include a constantly updated anti-virus database and a very quick scan of the system.
The anti-theft function has wide functionality at the application level from Avast. Here you can even set a list of proxies to whom messages will be sent in case of replacing a SIM card. We can conclude that this anti-virus on Android offers good protective capabilities. Do you need a nice bonus - a convenient widget on your desktop? If so, feel free to install the application.
Avira Antivirus Security
Avira antivirus can be installed on a device running Android for a long time. It boasts a wide audience not only on computers, but also on mobile gadgets. The functions that the application offers are in no way inferior to those of the main competitors. The antivirus does its job well due to the constant updating of databases. Scanning is fast, and after its completion there is an opportunity to see a detailed report. This will help to understand whether an antivirus is needed on the Android smartphone.
Fans of frequent installation of applications will certainly like the function of restricting access to personal data without a corresponding request. The minuses of “Avira” include the low accuracy of determining the current location of the device, the lack of Russian localization and paid premium features.
AVG Mobile AntiVirus
Among the programs designed for anti-virus protection, AVG deservedly occupies a leading position. There is a scan of all the files on the device, a firewall, blocking sites containing suspicious and dangerous content, geolocation of the lost gadget and a loud sound signal to search for it. For a fee, you can unlock premium features: photographing a thief, blocking when trying to remove a SIM card, completely disabling the ability to install third-party applications, as well as data backup.
The disadvantages include the presence of useless elements, such as fake optimization of energy saving and performance. As you can see, the features of the free version are scarce compared to the offers of competitors, but the application provides basic protection against viruses at a high level.
Other antiviruses
McAfee antivirus solutions, which offer good basic functionality, are also noteworthy. Trend Micro Mobile Security & Antivirus can please with the lack of built-in advertising and the presence of good security features. ESET Mobile Security & Antivirus boasts a convenient and pleasant interface, but the application does not offer the highest level of protection against viruses.
Whether it is necessary to install an antivirus on Android, everyone decides for himself. The mobile platform itself with a billion-dollar user audience is a tidbit for hackers and just hooligans, and they will always find the opportunity to penetrate the device. However, the rational use of the gadget can nullify almost all of these attempts, even in the absence of a protective program. On the other hand, is it worth the risk? Moreover, there are a sufficient number of solutions on the market, from which everyone can choose the right one for themselves. You might want to install a free antivirus on Android. Do you need paid functionality, decide for yourself.