Android phones are a frequent target for hackers. Malware can run in the background, steal personal data or slow down a device. Antivirus software can help protect devices by detecting and stopping malware attacks. The top anti-virus apps also detect websites that are phishing as well as other web security threats, and offer a variety of extra features that can improve your privacy on mobiles.
Most Android antivirus applications are free, however some cost extra for features or premium levels. They cost between $15 and $30 annually. Certain premium tiers include features like a VPN or identity theft protection for an additional fee. Some apps, such as Lookout do not submit to third-party lab evaluations and have a slow, aggressive scan engine that can put an undue strain on your phone’s performance.
Kaspersky offers an unpaid version as well as a paid version. The paid version costs $29.99 a year or $39 if purchasing it for three years. The free version includes SMS and call blocking and scans, virus update and anti-theft tools, while the pro version has an enhanced set of antivirus features like antimalware protection, device scanning, and an app lock.
Norton provides the highest overall detection rate for malware in our tests and its mobile application comes with a range of other security features to protect your privacy on mobile and desktop devices. Its advanced features include the ability to scan networks for Wi-Fi as well as a VPN, and a dark web monitoring service which can alert you to data breaches. The free tier, which was previously Norton Mobile Security, has been replaced with a separate app called Norton 360 Deluxe, and it comes with a lengthy trial period.
