Android is a convenient OS for most users, yet, it’s become an attractive target for cybercriminals. The belief that a smartphone is inherently secure is both mistaken and dangerous. Of course, you are completely safe while entering your Netflix or Spinando login or using other legit services. But in many cases, those certain precautions are a must.
Here are the top antivirus apps for Android that will help protect your device from mobile threats.
Why You Need Android Antivirus Software
Android often comes with built-in tools to guard against cyberthreats. Google also enhances system security, including Play Protect, an integrated mechanism designed to block malicious files. However, Play Protect is not a cure-all; its capabilities are not enough for full-scale protection. While the system continues to improve, attackers are constantly evolving as well.
Antivirus software protects your device against many types of threats:
- These include viruses, trojans, spyware, ransomware, and other types of malicious software. They can steal personal data (contacts, photos, messages, banking details), take control of your device, send SMS to premium-rate numbers, install additional malware, or even render your phone completely unusable.
- Phishing attacks. Mobile phishing has become increasingly sophisticated. Criminals create fake websites that mimic legitimate services (banks, social networks, online stores) to trick users into handing over logins, passwords, and financial details. Antivirus software can block access to such sites and warn users about potential risks.
- These hidden ad programs interfere with normal smartphone use. You open social media, messengers, or start a video, and within seconds you’re bombarded with unstoppable ads. You can try to find and delete the suspicious app, but that doesn’t always work. Aside from restoring factory settings, an antivirus is often the most effective solution.
- SMS spam and phishing. Attackers send malicious links in SMS messages to steal data or extort money. Some antivirus programs analyze incoming messages and warn users about potentially harmful texts.
Signs your smartphone may be infected with a virus:
- Sudden drop in performance (lags, freezes).
- Unknown apps or ads appear.
- Battery drains faster than usual.
- Settings change without your consent.
- Suspicious background activity (data usage spikes).
- Outgoing SMS you never sent.
Best Apps to Choose From
Panda Security
Panda Security is a Spanish antivirus solution that uses cloud technology to minimize the load on your device.
Its key feature is file analysis on the company’s servers, which reduces strain on the smartphone’s processor.
The antivirus includes:
- Protection against malicious apps.
- Anti-phishing.
- Anti-theft tools.
- Performance optimization.
An interesting extra feature is the Wi-Fi map, which shows the security level of nearby networks.
Avast Mobile Security
Avast Mobile Security is one of the most popular Android antivirus apps, developed by the Czech company Avast. It reliably protects devices from malware, supports VPN, includes anti-theft tools, and optimizes system performance.
Avast’s real-time scanner checks apps, files, and the operating system for threats. It uses a vast virus database and machine learning to detect new forms of malware.
A key feature is phishing protection, which blocks fake websites that mimic banks or social networks.
The premium version includes a VPN that encrypts traffic and secures public Wi-Fi connections, while the free version offers limited VPN data.
The anti-theft tool allows you to remotely lock your device, erase data, or trigger a loud siren if it’s stolen. It can also secretly take a picture with the front camera if someone else tries to unlock your phone.
Avast also includes optimization tools such as cache cleaning, junk file removal, and startup management to speed up performance.
Norton 360
NortonLifeLock’s flagship product, Norton 360, delivers the most comprehensive protection for your device.
Besides its antivirus scanner, Norton 360 offers:
- Unlimited VPN.
- Data breach monitoring (alerts you if your passwords are compromised).
- Spam call blocking.
- Secure Wi-Fi protection against unsafe networks.
- Encrypted cloud storage for backups.
- Parental controls (content filtering).
Its antivirus engine protects your phone in real time, while Safe Web blocks phishing sites. The secure browser is particularly useful for safe online payments.
The anti-theft feature lets you locate your device on a map and track its movement history.
Bitdefender Mobile Security
Bitdefender Mobile Security, developed by the Romanian company Bitdefender, is known for powerful antivirus technology. Its main advantage is strong protection with minimal impact on performance.
Bitdefender uses cloud-based scanning to reduce CPU and battery usage. It runs in the background and automatically blocks threats.
It protects against phishing by checking links in browsers, messaging apps, and emails, helping users avoid fraudulent websites.
Bitdefender focuses mainly on antivirus protection, making it ideal for users who don’t need extras like system optimization or password managers.
The premium version includes a VPN for anonymous browsing and secure connections on public networks.
McAfee Mobile Security
McAfee Mobile Security, developed by the American company McAfee, offers not only virus protection but also advanced privacy tools.
Its antivirus scanner checks apps and files for threats, while phishing protection alerts you to suspicious sites.
A key feature is its password manager, which securely stores logins and passwords to protect against leaks.
The anti-theft feature allows you to remotely lock your device, wipe data, or track its location. It can also take a photo with the front camera after failed unlock attempts.
McAfee also includes a system optimizer to clear cache and boost performance.
ESET Mobile Security
ESET Mobile Security, from the Slovak company ESET, is well known for its effective antivirus solutions. The app has a clean interface and consumes little battery power.
ESET’s antivirus engine detects threats with high accuracy, including the latest types of malware. Scans run automatically in real time or on demand.
Its phishing protection checks links in browsers and apps, warning about dangerous websites. The secure browser for online payments is especially valuable, blocking attempts to intercept banking data.
ESET Mobile Security also analyzes app permissions, showing which apps can access your contacts, microphone, or camera, helping you spot suspicious activity.
The anti-theft feature lets you remotely lock your phone, locate it via GPS, and trigger an alarm. The app can also take a photo with the front camera after failed unlock attempts.
