While free mobile security apps will usually only offer very basic functions, if you pay for software you can access a range of more premium features. As well as offering malware protection and anti-spam tools, they often offer useful features, such as cloud-based (online) backup and the ability to remotely wipe a lost or stolen device. If you have a pricey Android device, it may be worth investing in a paid-for security app. Plus, free apps sometimes only have full functionality for a few weeks, and then you’re left with only the basic tools and features after the trial period ends. However, free antivirus downloads won’t come with the same bells and whistles as their paid-for cousins. If your only concerns are malware, a free app is the obvious choice. Some free apps do all the basics brilliantly.

So, you don’t necessarily have to pay to get effective extra protection for your mobile device.įree apps, such as those available from companies like Avast, AVG, BitDefender, Lookout and McAfee, are popular for obvious reasons. We don’t test mobile security software any more, but when we did both free and paid apps received Best Buy awards. Do I need antivirus software for Apple iOS? While Google Play Protect is better than no protection in Android, early reports after its 2017 launch indicated that it struggles to detect some malware and other threats.Īs with all security software, Google Play Protect will improve as it learns how to deal with threats, but if you want extra protection, go for a free or paid-for security app. Most Android devices come with Google Play Protect switched on and it works automatically without you having to do anything. It can also be used to track down a lost device. This new security centre is claimed to keep bogus apps off your device, and prevent malware and scams. Google has brought in a range of features to help keep your handset safe, bundled together in Google Play Protect.

While Android is still a more controlled environment than the world of Windows PCs - where users can inadvertently pick up malware or a virus from any number of sources - malware can still sneak onto Android devices. Google’s Android operating system is used on millions of tablets and smartphones worldwide.

Avast for android phone reviews