A multitude of malware and identity theft risks make it a great idea to install an anti-virus app on your Android tablet or smartphone. These applications scan your files, apps and the entire device to protect from malicious software that attempts to sabotage your phone or steal your personal information through shady links, texts and websites. Certain apps include extra security features that shield you from attacks on your password, phishing, and other malicious software.
The top antivirus apps for Android offer a high degree of security against malware, with speedy scans that have low impact on your system resources. They can also scan WiFi networks to notify you if the network is not secure or suspicious. They have antitheft features to help you find and remotely lock a stolen or lost phone, along with other privacy-enhancing tools like a junk cleaner and a battery and memory booster. The best free apps provide simple virus scanning, while paid options provide features such as parental controls and VPN.
Lookout Security and Antivirus, now known as Lookout Personal, is one of the oldest and most well-known apps for securing your Android phone. It has a clean interface and has no ads, which explains its continued popularity. The costs can be high however, if you decide to use it on multiple devices and upgrade to the premium tiers to get extra security features.
Kaspersky is another major name in antivirus software, with an excellent app that has received high scores from independent labs. Its free tier offers basic protection, including SMS and call blocking, along with automatic updates and device scanning. The ad supported pro version comes with antitheft features like the ability to track and remotely wipe or lock any device that is stolen. It also comes with an app lock, malware scanning, and an app lock.