Do we need antivirus apps on Android?
The answer varies for every individual. However, I think, yes, some of us, do. Furthermore, security apps on Android aren’t irrelevant, as some make us believe.
Hence, with this article, I aim to give you all the essential details for you to decide 👇
Android as a mobile operating system evolved over the years to provide a solid, secure foundation for all kinds of users. Even with all the refinements, the freedom that it gives a user, makes it challenging from a security point-of-view.
Starting with sideloading apps, the ability to tweak various system-level options, flashing a custom ROM and more.
So, depending on the user, security recommendations may vary. However, the common security tips apply to everyone, whether you are an Android or iOS user. Things like, don’t install what you don’t know, stick to popular/trusted solutions, and be cautious before clicking any link.
Not to forget, you can make your experience safer by following some of my best privacy tips.
Google Play Protect Exists, Right?
Yes, Google Play Protect is a built-in solution for Android. And, it is catching up to other antivirus solutions.
What’s my source for that? AV-Comparatives 2024 mobile security report published in June 2024. It’s a good read if you’re curious.
AV-Comparatives is a reputed independent organization known for testing antivirus/security solutions where they rate the products as per the chosen factors.
I always keep an eye on their reports out of curiosity for every platform. And, Google Play Protect has improved over the years, but despite that, I would argue that third-party protection services are beneficial for the masses.
Trust me, I don’t get paid ❌💵 by any of the third-party services mentioned here.
So, let me tell you why…
Third-Party Options Are Good: They Need to Exist
Yes, Google Play Protect is the default, making it convenient, similar to Microsoft Defender for Windows.
However, I believe, the third-party products by companies like Kaspersky, Bitdefender, ESET, Avast, and others have been laser focused on malware detection. So, naturally, they will do a better job at it, even if Google Play Protect improves further.
Some may be led to believe that “third-party” apps are bad if you already have a native solution. Or, redundant? But, we still prefer/trust antivirus programs on Windows, right?
A similar theory here.
And, I would argue that these third-party apps have been around doing the job better (and for longer) than the native solutions. So, when you are choosing a product from Bitdefender, Kaspersky or any other reputable cybersecurity firms, they come with a solid history of malware detection and research.
For instance, Bitwarden’s security feature helped detect various malicious applications available in the Google Play Store. Similarly, Kaspersky’s mobile threat landscape 2023 report indicates that it blocked millions of malware on Android (some originated from the Google Play Store).
Overall, these security firms are more active in their endeavors with a focused approach, and you get the following benefits when you opt to use these antivirus apps:
- Security is a collective effort. Third-party solutions will help secure our devices in this growing threat landscape. So, you do not end up relying on just one solution.
- Antivirus applications have their technologies that help detect malware. Like, Bitwarden’s anomaly detection tech helped detect several adware apps on the Play Store. You can benefit from using one such solution.
- You get access to extra features like data leak monitoring, WiFi-monitoring, anti-theft (with sim card/device locking), app locking, and more.
- Giving a chance to established third-party security apps means that you are promoting the freedom to choose, over encouraging anti-competitive practices by tech giants.
My Recommendations Based on Personal Tests
There are various tools available for free and premium.
Usually, the premium subscriptions (ranging from 3.59 USD/year to 20 USD/year) provide you with access to additional features like anti-theft, data leak monitoring, VPN, and more. And, they often come with a generous trial period.
Here are my recommendations which I have used on my personal smartphone:
- Sophos Intercept X (Free)
- Mobile Security by Kaspersky (Premium)
- Bitdefender Mobile Security (Premium)
- ESET Mobile Security Antivirus (Premium)
You can settle with any of the apps that you like among the options here.
Along with these security solutions, I would also recommend you to protect your sensitive data. So, none of your important data is at risk, even if malware affects your device.
💭 So, what do you think about my opinion on antivirus apps on Android? Do you see them as more useful than I think, or are they unnecessary? Let me know your thoughts in the comments down below!