Which antivirus is best for android smartphone. How to install an antivirus on a tablet and which one is better to choose

It so happened that for each operating system there are both viruses and antiviruses. Android is no exception. Even more than that, Android OS is very vulnerable to viruses compared to its competitors. The biggest threat comes from Trojans, viruses that are designed to steal personal user information, such as passwords.

Fortunately, Google and some third-party companies have developed a huge amount of software to prevent viruses from infecting your device. Next, we will figure out what are the best antiviruses for Android and whether it is worth using them at all.

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Kaspersky Mobile Antivirus: Web Security & AppLock

This is a mobile version of the most popular antivirus for personal computers. It can not only scan the memory of a mobile device for viruses, but also can filter spam in messages, block applications from prying eyes.

Has an anti-theft feature. This is a handy anti-theft system. When it is turned on, the owner of the device, through the functionality of the official Kaspersky website, can block the smartphone, delete all data from it, and even try to take a picture of the thief. But this is only possible if the attacker has not turned off the phone, or the location via GPS, or has not switched to Airplane mode.

Another good antivirus for Android, bearing the loud name of the well-known version for PCs running Windows.

This is not just an antivirus, but a complete set for working with files, which includes:

  • Antivirus;
  • system cleaning;
  • Acceleration of system performance;
  • Application blocking;
  • Black list of numbers;
  • Anti-theft;
  • Network speed test.

Antivirus is available from the main screen by clicking on the "Scan" button. Scanning is very fast compared to other programs. In our case, 10 GB of information was processed in 3 minutes. In this case, the antivirus affects all system components, including .apk files.

Antivirus without any frills. The main screen is made modestly, but conveniently. There is a large scan button in the center. In case of problems found, they will be highlighted and by tapping on them, you can easily correct the situation.

At the top there are sub-items: antivirus, security, other. It is easy to switch between them with swipes from the edge of the screen.

In the "Antivirus" tab is a scan. It is fast and can run in the background.

The program is very economical on the resources of the smartphone.

The lightest and simplest antivirus for the Android system. There are paid and free versions.

Light is a free version. The full version costs about $25 (the price may vary depending on the country and exchange rate) and is essentially not worth the money.

On the main screen, we are greeted by the main workspace, there are 2 in total. By clicking on the “Scanner” button, a choice of scanning method opens. According to the classics, there are 3 ways: full scan, quick scan and custom scan.

These are the ten programs most effective in protecting your device from malware. Most of them are distributed free of charge.

The essence of the problem

Like any device, tablets and smartphones on the Android operating system can be affected by viruses. At the same time, all the same types of threats as for a stationary PC and laptop have a place. These are threats such as:

  • Malicious files that cause a malfunction of the device, copying information entered from it;
  • Phishing sites that copy your account information;
  • The action of "beacons" on sites that collect information about your activity on the network, including for the formation of targeted advertising;
  • Viruses that violate the confidentiality of payment transactions, copy card data and can cause real material damage, etc.

Therefore, a high-quality antivirus should be multifunctional and protect against a number of threats. Also, often such antiviruses have additional functions - they indicate the rating of sites, their potential danger, etc. Also, additional functions sometimes include automatic cleaning of the cache, residual RAM files, etc.

<Рис. 1 Вирус на Андроид>

If you choose such software correctly, it will not only protect against various types of network threats, but also optimize the entire operation of the device.

No. 1 Web

One of the most downloaded antiviruses currently. Its assembly of the Light format is distributed free of charge. Compared to the full version of the program, the lite version has slightly fewer functions, which does not prevent it from meeting all the requirements for protecting the device.

Several versions are implemented, depending on the type of device and the type of firmware. They are selected automatically (subject to downloading via Google Play).

  • The software has the following advantages:
  • A stable set of basic functions;
  • High efficiency in protecting both the device from malicious files and the user's privacy on the network;
  • High speed even on fairly old systems;
  • There are many versions of the program for various devices and firmware;
  • Easily integrated into the operating system and works stably on any device;
  • Updates are released regularly to protect your device from the latest types of network threats;
  • An easy-to-manage application, which, at the same time, has great possibilities for fine-tuning and easily adapts "for itself", it is also very easy to select scan types, etc.;
  • It has a general deep scan, general quick scan, as well as scanning of specific files and folders.

However, this program also has disadvantages. Among them is the lack of a spam filter in the free version. This feature is only available in the paid version, which costs $30.

The program has a high rating. It has now been downloaded more than 50 million times, which is a very high figure for this type of software. In Google Play, the software has a rating of 4.5, while almost a million users have given it five stars.

<Рис. 2 Dr.Web>

#2 CM Security

Another free and effective program that is popular. The number of its downloads is almost equal to the previous software. It has the main advantage - from the very beginning it was developed specifically to work on mobile devices, unlike many other applications of this rating, which "grew" from ordinary PC software.

The Lite format application is being implemented free of charge. The version is less than 2 MB. It has a set of necessary functions to protect the device and ensure the safety of Internet surfing.

It has the following advantages over competitors:

  • The most well adapted for smartphones, both in terms of visual design and menus, and in terms of functionality;
  • It has additional functions for working with the operating system (application blocking, traffic control and management, file and program manager, etc.), moreover, in a lightweight version;
  • It makes it possible not only to scan, but also to clear the device's memory from residual files;
  • Differs in speed;
  • Constantly updated and optimized for new versions of Android;
  • The threat database is constantly updated, which guarantees the safety of your phone or tablet even from the latest viruses, etc.;
  • Work in real time;
  • The application has been translated into 26 languages ​​for easier work with it for foreign users;
  • The Anti-Theft service, which provides remote access to the device, allows you to take a photo with the front camera if you enter a password or pattern by mistake, etc. (however, all this makes sense only if the device settings are appropriate);
  • Informative interface.

Unlike many programs on this list, CM Security is not a simple antivirus, but a comprehensive software for working with the OS. Protects against both online and offline threats. Allows you to prevent unwanted calls and much more.

<Рис. 3 CM Security>

#3 Kaspersky Internet Security

Relatively recently, Kaspersky Lab has developed a version of its software for Android. The new antivirus, or rather the security system for the device, has proven itself well and is popular.

Especially effective for protection against virus programs. It also has very good performance regarding network theft protection. According to the second indicator, it surpasses almost all programs presented in this rating.

For quite a long time, it was Kaspersky that was considered the optimal antivirus for Android. But at present, most users note a rather narrow functionality, in comparison with other free programs of this purpose. Also, an uncomfortable and somewhat "clumsy" interface, an unpleasant design catches the eye.

Although the newest versions of this software are already more optimized and advanced. They are more comfortable and more pleasant to work with. It has the following undeniable advantages:

  • High efficiency protection against network threats and malware and files;
  • Functions of the Anti-Theft format;
  • SIM - alerts (not the most popular feature, but many users are still used to working with it);
  • Anti-phishing system;
  • Hiding contacts of some type;
  • Blocker of unwanted calls, etc.

It is somewhat aggressive, especially when the device is locked. However, it has a rating of 4.7 on Google Play. At the same time, about one and a half million users rated it 5 stars.

<Рис. 4 Kaspersky>

No. 4. 360 Security

This antivirus is very similar in functionality to CM Security, but slightly inferior to it in functionality. Perhaps that is why it is downloaded a little less often. It was also developed specifically for Android, and not optimized.

Has the following functionality:

  • Memory scan;
  • Protection against malware, phishing sites and other online threats;
  • Acceleration of the device;
  • Scanning memory and cleaning from residual files, working with RAM and optimizing the device;
  • Closing unnecessary processes and applications (on request) in order to save battery power;
  • Blocking unwanted calls and sending messages to short, potentially paid, numbers (which is not always convenient);
  • Anti-theft.

There are no such functions that are present in most other antiviruses, such as traffic control, real-time operation (that is, direct monitoring of Internet surfing and checking the files received during it). Antivirus is designed for more or less old devices, which can be regarded as a plus.

<Рис. 5 360 Security>

#5 AVG Antivirus Free

Also quite popular. It has many varieties and firmware for a particular type of OS and version. Protects against a range of online threats, as well as malicious files and viruses. Allows you to make system settings, protects against unwanted calls, etc.

It has over 100 million downloads and is very popular among users. Works in real time and can scan both phone memory and removable media. Equipped with the Anti-theft function, which allows you to track the device on Google maps, as well as clear all data in the device, block it after changing the SIM card.

There is a function to set up private applications. If you have such an antivirus installed, then access to certain software can only be done by entering a PIN code. This is convenient, for example, if you have programs for working with documents.

<Рис. 6 AVG>

#6 Avast Mobile Security

The desktop version is very popular. Users also liked the new version for mobile devices. It has the following feature set:

  • Quickly scan the external and internal memory of your phone or tablet in real time;
  • Scanning on demand;
  • Compilation of black lists, both sites and contacts;
  • Protection against malicious files, phishing, etc.

There is a function of remote control of the program functionality with root access settings. Equally effective in most popular browsers.

It also has some disadvantages. For example, there is no Anti-Theft function and a spy camera. In addition, the interface and access to the functionality in the program is quite confusing and you need to get used to it.

<Рис. 7 Avast>

#7 Norton Mobile Security

Antivirus has a wide range of functionality to protect personal data, as well as protect the device from network threats. However, the free trial is only available to the user for one month. After that, you need to issue a paid subscription, costing 900 rubles per year.

Positive:

  • Real-time traffic control;
  • Creating a backup copy of all data;
  • Anti-theft and remote access to the device (including blocking when the SIM card is removed);
  • Setting up call and SMS blocking;
  • "Application Advisor" reports on threats from software;
  • Convenient functionality and nice design.

Negative:

  • Relatively few settings;
  • Short trial period;
  • Fairly high price.

<Рис. 8 Norton>

No. 8. Avira

The free version is available through Google Play. In principle, it is sufficient to ensure a normal level of device security. However, there is a version with extended functionality, the subscription cost in this case is about 400 rubles per year.

Especially no different from analogues. Fairly efficient and fast. Protects against malicious files and network threats, has functions for interacting with the system and its settings.

Allows you to block unwanted numbers (both calls and SMS from / to them). Works with blacklists, which can be created automatically with certain settings. Can restrict access to certain applications.

There is an Anti-Theft function with interesting functionality. It allows you not only to get remote access and take a picture on the front camera, but also turn on the siren. It is also possible to remotely lock the device and data from it.

The disadvantage is that access to many basic functions is carried out only by subscription. For example, the free version lacks real-time scanning. Also, the program does not respond to the download of suspicious files if there is no subscription.

<Рис. 9 Avira>

No. 9 McAfee

Pretty popular app. However, it differs in strange functionality. Although it has many functions to protect the device from viruses, a significant part of its functionality has nothing to do with this line of work.

The functionality is quite clear, and the interface and menu are convenient. However, the visual design is not very pleasant. However, you can get used to it.

There is an anti-theft feature. As well as a wide range of device security features, such as entering a PIN code, security questions, and more. Restricts access to applications using a PIN code or key, has a blocking from unwanted calls and SMS.

<Рис. 10 McAfee>

No. 10 ESET

The same company developed NOD32 PC antivirus. And its mobile version is presented in this rating. The application is free and is implemented through Google Play, and its paid version with more functionality costs 400 rubles a year.

The software can scan the system, move files to quarantine, and check the device on schedule. There is advanced protection against phishing. A very functional and impressive Anti-Theft module.

Helpful Hints

Android is the most popular operating system in the world, which means that it is extremely important for every user to take care of protecting their device.

There are many antivirus programs for all devices running on the system from Google.

It doesn't matter which smartphone and/or tablet you use, it's important to have antivirus or security software.

In this article, you will learn about the most popular, effective and reliable antivirus programs, and tools for devices running on Android (Android) - and these are almost all phones.

Many of these programs do much more than just scan your smartphone. They prevent infection web pages and open or downloaded files.

It is also worth noting that almost all of these antiviruses can be downloaded absolutely free from Google Play.

antivirus for android phone

WhatAntivirus forAndroid

Antivirus is a program (application) that protects your smartphone and tablet from various malware. More specifically, the antivirus protects against types of programs such as worms, trojans and spyware.

To better protect your device from malware, you should install only the best antiviruses that are able to dig deep and find what hidden in distant folders on your device.

In fact, there is no specific answer to the question, what is the best antivirus. However, if you examine the various reviews of users and specialists, as well as study studies on this topic, you can determine the list of the highest quality antiviruses.

How important is it to install an antivirus on the phone?

Many will wonder whether it is worth installing an antivirus on your smartphone at all. Such a question is quite logical, and it concerns not only anti-virus programs, but also programs for cleaning and speeding up the phone.

There are many opinions about this. It's hard to argue about what the Internet has many virus threats and they need protection. However, according to the manufacturers, Android system is already reliably protected from viruses.

Remember: The virus will get into your device only if you download it yourself.

Popular types of viruses

Trojan- This malware pretends to be a harmless program.

Spy- a program that collects your bank card data, passwords and other personal information.

ransomware virus- is able to block your device, and then require you to pay to unlock it.

When are you required to install an antivirus?

1. When downloading games and applications from third-party sources, and not from Google Play.

2. When using applications related to electronic money, including WebMoney, Mobile Banking and online payment for goods.

3. If desired, install additional functions, including programs for cleaning and speeding up the device.

When is it not necessary to install an antivirus?

1. If you use programs exclusively from the official Google Play store.

2. If you do not use Mobile Banking and other programs related to money.

What are the disadvantages of antiviruses?

1. In order for your smartphone or tablet to be always protected, you need the antivirus to be always enabled. In this case, it will not only take up part of the operating system, but also consume the battery of your device.

2. A lot of antiviruses that are offered for free have limited functionality, and in order to use the program to its full potential, you will have to pay for the full version.

3. From time to time, some antiviruses signal the dangers of applications from Google Play. However, all apps in this store are rigorously tested and free from malware.

Of course, you decide whether to install an antivirus or not, but one thing is for sure - this program will definitely not make your phone or tablet worse.

Free antiviruses for Android

Here is a list of the highest quality antiviruses for smartphones and tablets:

1 . AvastMobilesecurity



A free antivirus that checks the operating system of your device and notifies you in time of the threat of infection. In the case of automatic launch, this program immediately blocks the path to the infected file.

In addition, Avast for Android protects your device from potential Wi-Fi vulnerability.


Additional functions:

call blocking

Access protection system (firewall)

Anti-theft (allows you to remotely lock your device if you forgot or lost it somewhere).

The program used to be paid, but now many features can be used for free in exchange for some advertising within the program.

To fully enjoy the Avast Android app, you can pay a small amount monthly or annually to get the premium version.

In the full version, you can also put a "lock" on some applications, and each time the device will request a PIN in order to open a particular application. This prevents malware from automatically launching applications such as Mobile Banking.

Download antivirus on Avast

DownloadGoogleplay

If you want a more comprehensive version that includes system cleanup, password management, and a VPN (a fully secure channel that allows you to connect your smartphone or tablet to another Internet-enabled device), you can use Avast Ultimate.

The best antiviruses for Android devices

2. BitdefenderAntivirusFree



A lightweight app from a trusted brand. Minimal load and very simple installation, but you will have to program the anti-malware check.

The program provides real-time protection, active control and scanning of HTTP traffic in order to protect against phishing and various malicious programs.

Bitdefender is a well-known name in the online security world. Antivirus for Android from this company does not work in shadow mode, which saves your battery power and does not load the RAM of your device once again.

However, this also means that the program will only run when you request it, meaning you will always have to manually start it or program the time to scan the device.


Top Features of Bitdefender Free AntivirusAntivirusFree:

1. Real-time protection - the program provides device protection during network access. It checks all files when they are launched, moved or copied.

2. Cloud - the program uses cloud scanning technology. Thus, new threats are detected faster, while most antiviruses do not see new malware.

3. HTTP scanning - the antivirus analyzes and then blocks websites that were suspected of fraud and phishing.

4. The program is automatically updated periodically.


1. Scan web pages in real time.

2. The ability to remotely block the device and delete all information from it.

Antivirus for Android free download

Download from

Downloadfrom the official online storeGoogleplay

Antivirus for android: which is better

3. McAfeeMobilesecurity


McAfee is another big name in the antivirus software space, not just for smartphones and tablets, but for desktops as well.

This antivirus offers multi-layered security - it not only serves as an antivirus, but also as a privacy tool and also provides protection against thieves.

The program gives you the ability to block applications that have privacy settings above the level that you consider acceptable for yourself.

You can also block any phone numbers, not only the numbers from which calls were received, but also those from which messages were received.

The antivirus also scans applications to see if they give out your personal information to a third party and, if necessary, blocks them.


Theft protection:

1. One of the anti-theft features is called "capturecam". With it, your smartphone automatically takes a photo of the thief who took your device. After that, the program sends the photo to the email address you specified earlier.

2. McAfee Mobile Security gives you the ability to track your device, delete all information from it from any computer, and activate an alert that will signal the loss of the device at a high volume level.

Verified by McAfee

The program offers you maximum antivirus protection, and the McAfee seal of approval informs you about it. Its presence indicates that you can safely open the site from any browser.

Download antivirus

Download from the official website of the developer

Downloadfrom the official online storeGoogleplay

Antivirus for Android free in Russian

4 . KasperskyMobileAntivirus


Kaspersky, along with Bitdefender, is a big player in the antivirus software market. The free version of the app has many impressive features. According to testing, it is able to detect malware at a rate of 99.9%.

This free antivirus for mobile devices can protect your data from viruses, spyware, trojans and other malware.


Mainantivirus features:

1. You can manage your antiviruses using Android Wear, the operating system for smartwatches.

2. Ability to block potentially dangerous sites.

3. Ability to block calls and SMS.

4. Search for a lost device (Anti-Theft).

Like most antiviruses, this program provides many additional features for an additional fee.

Kaspersky Internet Security for Android offers additional security features for those who purchase the premium version. Among them: automatic scanning, anti-phishing, a privacy function, as well as a call and SMS filtering function.

In the premium version you also get:

1. Ability to set a password for applications.

2. Protecting personal information from unwanted eyes.

Download antivirus Kaspersky

Downloadfrom the official online storeGoogleplay

5 NortonsecurityandAntivirus


This mobile antivirus will protect your mobile device from viruses, malware, and also help if your smartphone or tablet is lost or stolen.

Norton Security and Antivirus gives you the ability to remotely block, and also allows you to delete your confidential data, see the location of the device, block phone numbers and backup data.

In one test conducted a few months ago, this antivirus showed 100% success in detecting malware for Android devices.

Antivirus also allows you to manage all your devices from one website.


A few more useful tools:

1. The ability to remotely block your smartphone with one SMS if it was stolen or lost. Also, the device is automatically blocked after 10 attempts to enter an incorrect password or if the SIM card is removed.

2. Norton not only detects viruses inside applications, but also removes them automatically.

3. Ability to scan and remove programs containing dangerous code or viruses.

In the premium version you also get:

1. Block calls and SMS messages.

2. Thanks to the application advisor, created on the basis of NortonTM Mobile Insight technology, the antivirus itself checks it for potential threats of personal data leakage, and also analyzes how much battery resources the application uses before it even starts downloading the application.

3. With the help of the "hidden shooting" function, you can get a photo of the person who uses your lost device. The photo is taken by the front camera.

4. Antivirus blocks any attempt by malicious websites to gain access to your personal data.

5. The lost device can be found on the online map. Also, a loud signal is heard when the phone is lost.

Download antivirus for free

Download from the official website of the developer

Downloadfrom the official online storeGoogleplay

6. AviraAntivirussecurity


Avira's mobile offer not only scans the files you download, but also the content in your phone's memory.

It is worth noting that this antivirus does not use a lot of your device's resources. This means that the smartphone will not slow down, and its battery will not be greatly discharged.

It can also scan external storage such as your SD card. Apps are rated using a privacy scale to help you decide how much you can trust.

Built-in identity protection "Identity Safeguard" regularly checks to see if there were email addresses in your contact list that were previously shone in serious violations.

The app is controlled by a web portal, which is extremely useful if you want to set up a common privacy policy across multiple of your devices.

1. Locate a lost or stolen device.

2. Blocking programs trying to get access to your applications.

3. Automatic scanning of memory card, external disk and other external devices.

4. Remote blocking of the device in case of loss or theft, as well as remote cleaning of all files on the device.

5. Activation of a loud sound signal, in case you cannot find the device (for example, if you forgot where you put it, or it just fell behind the back of the sofa).

6. Ability to send a message to the person who found your phone.

7. Blocking calls and SMS.

In the premium version you also get:

1. Even more additional support.

2. Automatic blocking of malicious sites.

3. Frequent updates.

Download Avira antivirus

Download from the official website of the developer

Downloadfrom the official online storeGoogleplay

7.EsetMobilesecurity& Antivirus


This mobile app has the following features: Anti-Virus, Anti-Theft, Anti-Phishing, Anti-Spam, and it can scan the app and system for malware.

This antivirus will protect your device from known and emerging mobile threats as well as phishing sites.

Here are some other features that this antivirus offers you:

1. Protects against viruses in real time and sends you a report.

2. Allows you to scan the device by offering Fast, Smart or Deep Scan.

3. It is capable of blocking unwanted calls and SMS messages.

4. It allows you to control your device remotely and block or delete its contents from any computer.

5. Ability to remotely turn on the siren.


In the premium version, you are offered:

1. Scheduled device scan.

2. Automatic update.

3. Dangerous or unwanted applications detection function

4. If your phone is lost, you can see its location on the map.

5. The ability to take pictures on the front camera of a person who uses your smartphone.

6. The ability to receive notifications about changing the SIM card or about trying to unlock the phone.

7. Ability to contact the person who found your device.

8. Filtering calls and SMS messages.

Antivirus download on Android in Russian

Download from the official website of the developer

Downloadfrom the official online storeGoogleplay

8. SophosMobilesecurity


This free cloud-based antivirus checks all applications that you decide to install on your device.

If you have lost or stolen your phone or tablet, you can use the remote lock function.

Unlike many other free antivirus programs, Sophos is ad-free.

This antivirus is also able to block sites with illegal content or spam.

You can program the day and time to scan files and folders, and the malware database is updated periodically without your intervention.

In addition, the program has a QR scanner that can be used to establish secure Wi-Fi connections.

The program also has a recognition program that can automatically generate one-time passwords for multi-level identification.


Top features of SophosMobilesecurity

1. Scan apps and APK files installed both in phone or tablet memory and SD card.

2. Ability to remotely lock and locate a lost Android device.

3. The ability to remotely erase data, as well as turn on the siren on the stolen device.

Antivirus offers multi-level comprehensive protection, hunting for trojans, viruses, as well as phishing and adware programs.

CM Security for Android keeps your data private and allows you to set passwords for certain applications. Thus, you can protect all your contacts, photos and correspondence in social networks from prying eyes.


Main Functions of CMsecurity

1. Using local and cloud engine to scan information.

2. Regular replenishment of anti-virus databases.

3. Providing real-time protection. Antivirus monitors all downloaded applications and updates, as well as all open sites.

4. The program scans not only the internal memory of a smartphone or tablet, but also external memory cards.

5. Antivirus takes pictures of an intruder who has taken possession of your device if he entered the password incorrectly three times.

6. The program also cleans the device from the remnants of applications and optimizes its memory.

Since recently, a lot of ads have been appearing in the application, which has caused a lot of complaints from users. Let's hope the developers fix the bug. Moreover, you can complain about inconvenient advertising to the developers themselves.

Where to download antivirus

Downloadfrom the official online storeGoogleplay.

10. 360 securityAntivirus


With the help of two-level protection, this free antivirus for Android has the ability to monitor the security of your device in real time, as well as fix vulnerabilities in the system, and prevent personal information from leaking.

The program can also clean your smartphone or tablet from unused background applications to significantly speed up the device.

Despite the abundance of functions, the antivirus is made as clear as possible for any user.


Key features of 360 Security

1. Two-level protection against malware. At the same time, cloud technologies are used to search for viruses, which allows you to find very "fresh" malicious programs.

2. Thanks to a new type of anti-virus engines, the program scans any device very quickly.

Anti-virusDr.Weblight


Dr.Web Light antivirus is a simplified version of one of the most popular antiviruses for the Android system.

Dr.Web Light and Dr.Web Security Space are two versions of the same antivirus with great features that allow you to provide your device with comprehensive protection against all types of malware.


The main functions of Anti-virusDr.Weblight:

1. Ability to select a quick or full (deeper) scan of the device.

2. Traffic control and online verification of all files you download.

3. The "Antispam" function makes it possible to block unwanted calls and SMS messages.

4. The "Anti-theft" function makes it possible to track the device in case of its loss and remotely erase all personal data and important information.

5. The ability to unlock your device if it was infected with a virus, even when the phone was completely locked.


Download antivirus for Android

Download from

Published the results of an analysis of an application called Virus Shield. At that time, the app had over 10,000 downloads and was the most popular app in the New Paid Apps Ranking and the third most popular in the overall Paid Apps Ranking. The user rating for Virus Shield was 4.7 out of 5. Judging by the name, it can be assumed that this application is an antivirus for Android devices. However, during the Android Police research, it turned out that the application does not have any anti-virus functions at all, and when the protection activation button was pressed, only the status icon changed. The only truthful statements of the developers were the lack of advertising and minimal impact on battery life.

After the app was found to be fraudulent, Google removed Virus Shield from the Google Play app store, suspended the developer's account, and refunded users for the amount they spent on the purchase. This example clearly demonstrates how a useless application can become popular through good marketing. Interestingly, it is much easier to detect a malicious application than a useless application due to the presence of suspicious code sections. A thorough application audit can be very costly and time consuming. Google recommends checking app ratings before purchasing. This is good advice, but it wouldn't work with Virus Shield. The applications in this AV-Comparatives lab report are rated 4 or higher, although many of them are not very secure.

Found a typo? Select and press Ctrl + Enter

The Internet brings a lot of opportunities and with them a lot of dangers. On the Android platform, the main threat to the smartphone is Trojans - virus programs that steal personal information, such as passwords.

For this reason, many owners of electronic devices are concerned about the best antivirus based on Android in 2018-2019. Especially for you, we have prepared a rating of antiviruses for Android, which includes both paid and completely free software.

Top antivirus programs

  • web light;
  • BITDEFENDER MOBILE SECURITY;
  • NORTON MOBILE SECURITY;
  • AVAST MOBILE SECURITY;
  • CM SECURITY MASTER;
  • Android AVG;
  • 360 Security;
  • Kaspersky Internet Security;
  • ESET Mobile Security.
  • McAfee Mobile Security

To find out which antivirus is the best, consider each of them separately.

CM Security

This antivirus software was created by Cheetah. The functionality of this program contains almost everything that a smartphone user needs to effectively protect the device.

This antivirus for Android is good because it is completely free. Among its tools, it is especially worth noting a spam link blocker, an anti-theft system, and network connection protection. This antivirus for Android is very popular with the AppLock tool, which allows you to restrict access to the user's personal data. At the same time, the restriction is imposed not only for unauthorized persons, but also for third-party software on the smartphone.

However, CM Security has its drawbacks. During the launch of a smartphone scan, it is not possible to select a scan method, and after installing the antivirus, the owner of the electronic gadget will be prompted to register in the cloud. The advantage of the cloud system is the ability to save all current phone settings without services from Google.

In general, reviews from the global network suggest that this is a fairly good antivirus, albeit with its own shortcomings.

BITDEFENDER MOBILE SECURITY

BITDEFENDER is a paid anti-virus program, currently licensed at around $10 per year.

The main advantages of this antivirus are effective protection without wasting battery power when the antivirus program is running, as well as a small percentage of system efficiency decrease. Another plus of BITDEFENDER is a quick system scan.

The anti-theft system allows you to track the location of the gadget at any time. It is possible to control the device using SMS messages.

Norton

This antivirus software does not have as wide functionality as other antivirus programs. It is with its simplicity and reliability that Norton has earned such great popularity for itself, there is a free trial version of the program in which the user can evaluate all the advantages of the antivirus.

Upon closer examination, it becomes obvious that the user of an electronic gadget is provided with the necessary minimum to ensure the security of a smartphone. Among the additional functionality, there are only tools for system recovery and data backup. The main advantage of the antivirus program is that it does not load the phone, and its work does not greatly affect the system performance.

Avast

Antivirus software for smartphones from Avast is one of the most popular. There are two versions of antivirus software - paid and free. Both variations of the program have a fairly wide functionality, which is enough for every user.

It is especially worth highlighting tools such as the Android system optimizer, a firewall, and Avast also offers geofencing. The tool settings specify the area when leaving which the device automatically locks and starts to play a loud sound signal. Another useful tool is the Security Advisor, which gives working tips to prevent possible problems.

The paid version of anti-virus software additionally includes tools for remote control of an electronic device, cloud storage for data, and a system for disabling ads in applications.

Dr. web light

This antivirus is one of 3 representatives of antivirus software from Dr. Web.

The program has a number of its advantages, its functionality includes such tools as an Internet filter, an anti-spam module. Another significant advantage of Dr. Web Light is the ability to unlock an electronic device even in a situation where it has already been infected with various virus software. There is another interesting tool that erases all data from the phone after several failures in trying to unlock the smartphone.

The disadvantages of this device is a long system scan, which greatly affects the performance of the gadget.

AVG

This is a simple solution to a complex problem. The program does not have rich functionality, it has only a standard set of functions. There are 2 versions of this software. A significant drawback is that the free one only works for 30 days, after this period the owner of the electronic device has to either switch to the paid version or use another antivirus program.

A significant disadvantage is that the most interesting tool in this package is device optimization, which is completely irrelevant for this kind of programs in 2017.

360 security

Not so long ago, a new antivirus toolkit was released from developers from China. One of the main advantages of the program is zero cost. During the scan, not only the main, but also temporary files are checked. 360 Security also makes it possible to transfer applications installed on a mobile device to a flash drive.

For many users, the disadvantage of this software is the lack of control over network connections. In general, 360 Security contains all the necessary functionality to ensure effective device protection.

ESET NOD32

This software is quite popular among mobile device owners.

In addition to such standard tools as anti-theft and anti-spam, there is a functionality that protects the smartphone from phishing. There is also a special module that ensures the security of the SIM card.

The program has three methods for scanning an electronic device. In the simplest version, only installed applications and all standard system components are checked. With smart scan, the program checks the data that is on the flash drive of the device. A full scan involves scanning all the files that are on the electronic device.

Kaspersky

Every owner of a mobile device has heard about this brand at least once in their life. There are 2 versions of antivirus software for Android devices from Kaspersky - premium and trial.

The trial version of the product is provided to the user for a monthly period, its functionality includes the entire standard set of tools. After the testing period has expired, some of the functionality stops working, and the system has to be scanned manually.

A significant disadvantage of the anti-virus package from Kaspersky is the lack of protection for connections over the network.

McAfee

Another antivirus package, which is provided absolutely free. A nice plus is the presence of a tool to protect network connections.

The paid premium version has the ability to back up the user's personal data, but this only applies to video, media and photo files. A significant plus that appealed to many owners of smartphones based on Android. is the ability to read QR codes. There is also another tool that allows you to send a photo of an intruder who has stolen an electronic gadget. The paid version also includes a feature such as remembering the last location of the mobile device using GPS.

Conclusion

After describing all the best antiviruses for Android, the question remains, which option will be the best? Here the opinions of the owners of electronic gadgets differ. Some pay attention only to well-known antivirus programs, for others, the main indicator is the functionality of the program. Another category of users does not accept options with paid anti-virus software.

Experts believe that the best option for owners of electronic gadgets based on Android is CM Security. This package of tools has almost no effect on system performance. Antivirus software should only be installed from trusted sources. Otherwise, instead of an antivirus program, you can install a virus, due to which you can lose all personal data.

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