Best Antivirus Apps for Android

Luckily, several companies are working hard to create countermeasures to stop these criminals in their tracks. Although smartphones already come equipped with antivirus software, it’s recommended that you add a third-party application, as several of them offer extra features.

Additionally, the company offers multi-device packages, so you can also protect your computer and tablet. Despite the app’s numerous other functionalities, it still manages to provide excellent antivirus support at zero cost.

It can analyze new Wi-Fi connections, boost RAM by closing unnecessary apps, and conduct a deep search for any potential threats. These can be scheduled to ensure you start your week with a clean and secure Android device.

Its free mobile app protects every part of your device, including the physical object itself, thanks to its anti-theft feature. Avast also has some of the most lightweight antivirus scanners around, which allows it to easily run on even the oldest of Android models, where storage space is limited.

Avast’s RAM booster is incredibly helpful for older phones too, as it can ensure that your Android system is always running at full capacity by pausing non-vital programs.

Panda Dome Antivirus has a privacy auditor to make sure your Android apps don’t have unnecessary permissions, and a general tracker that helps you keep an eye on all your family’s devices.

Not only that, but the premium version of this antivirus app comes with an unlimited VPN, which is always a plus for any security software. Whichever version you choose, you’ll enjoy the benefits of an efficient threat scanner that doesn’t compromise on performance.

Why install antivirus software on Android

All Android devices that have the Google Play Store installed also come with a malware scanner. Google Play Protect provides basic protection and blocks the installation of the majority of harmful applications, helping you use your device without fear of having your information stolen. This software also uses machine learning, meaning it improves all the time.

However, Google Play Protect doesn’t work for those users with a Huawei phone, who can’t access Google’s store nor its protection. Plus, there have been several cases where Google Play Store’s security has been compromised, putting millions of people at risk of phishing or hacking.

Additionally, Google Play Protect can’t flag suspicious-looking sites, prevent malicious software from being installed, or block callers, so this is where a third-party antivirus software can act as a crucial extra layer of protection. What’s more, a third-party service is normally packed full of extra features, such as system cleaners, VPNs, RAM boosters, and more.

Additional security tips for Android users

Regardless of how reliable your antivirus is, hackers can still get into your device if you don’t follow certain guidelines. Firstly, it’s important to always use biometrics such as fingerprints or facial recognition along with a PIN to lock your phone and other sensitive apps.

Using a VPN is always a wise choice, but it becomes essential when using public Wi-Fi. For people with several social media or email accounts, a password manager can create and store complicated and secure passwords. Although free APK files found online may be tempting, these apps may come with an unwanted guest, such as a trojan horse that steals your information if not caught by antivirus software.

Last but not least, it’s important to stay vigilant when installing and storing apps. Uninstalling unused apps is an easy step to help protect your personal data while freeing up storage. Once this is done, look carefully at each remaining app as you should only give apps permission to view your personal information if they can’t function properly without it. Making these small changes takes minimal time and effort, but they may just safeguard you against a data-leak disaster.