With the rise of Android’s popularity, questions about its security have increasingly come to the forefront.
Malware can appear even on the best Android phones and the best Android tablets, leading users to wonder is it necessary to install antivirus software on their device?
While the short answer isn’t a straightforward yes or no, let’s dive into the factors that might influence your decision.
How vulnerable is Android?
Android is now the main operating system for almost every phone, regardless of its manufacturer. This makes Android a larger target for cybercriminals, who see the platform’s vast user base as a ripe opportunity. While iPhones are considered more secure due to their closed ecosystem, Android’s openness means it offers both flexibility and risk.
Despite Android’s popularity, it’s important to note that Android viruses aren’t as widespread as some might fear. You’re more likely to lose your phone to theft than be compromised by malware.
That said, the existence of Android viruses isn’t a myth. These malicious programs can cause serious damage, including identity theft and the loss of financial information.
The threat becomes more real if you tend to install apps from outside the Google Play Store. Android typically blocks apps from unknown sources by default, but users who bypass this setting, known as ‘sideloading,’ are far more exposed to malware.
Even though Google is quick to remove malicious apps from the Play Store, a second layer of protection in the form of the best antivirus software can provide peace of mind.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
When should you consider an antivirus app?
If you are diligent about downloading apps only from the Google Play Store, avoid clicking suspicious links, and keep your Android version up to date, you might not need antivirus software.
Indeed, one of the most significant risks to your Android device is the lack of security updates. However, with many users unaware of whether their device is still supported, antivirus software can add a layer of protection, especially if you’re stuck on an older version of Android.
Google Play Protect, Android’s built-in security system, already scans apps for malware, and regular security patches further reinforce your device’s defenses. However, antivirus apps offer extra reassurance by adding a second line of defense, particularly against malicious apps that may slip past Google’s filters.
Additionally, antivirus apps often come bundled with useful features like remote lock and wipe options, backup tools, and the ability to locate a lost phone. These tools can be found in other apps, but having them all in one place makes life a bit easier.
If you’re concerned that your device might be infected, follow the steps in our how to check for a virus on your Android phone guide.
Which antivirus app should I choose?
Not all antivirus apps are created equal. A study by AV-Comparatives found that two-thirds of Android antivirus apps on the market don’t effectively protect against threats.
What’s more, malware can hide under many forms, so you may even come across fake antivirus software and other antivirus scams. Fortunately, we’ve put together a guide on how to spot fake antivirus.
If you opt for the best Android antivirus, it’s crucial to choose a reputable vendor. Brands that consistently perform well in tests are:
- Bitdefender
- Avast
- McAfee
- AVG
- Symantec
How to protect my phone from malware?
Whether or not you install antivirus software, it’s crucial to exercise caution when using your Android device.
Avoid downloading apps from unofficial sources, be mindful of the permissions apps request, and steer clear of suspicious emails or links. Following these basic precautions can significantly reduce your chances of encountering malware.
However, if you do suspect that your phone has been infected—whether it’s running slowly, showing unwanted pop-up ads, or redirecting your browser—learning how to factory reset your Android phone and doing it can often fix the issue.
Just be sure to read our guide on how to back up your data and do it regularly to make the process as smooth as possible. You don’t want to lose it all.
Is Android antivirus necessary?
Antivirus software isn’t an absolute necessity for every Android user, but it can provide an additional layer of security, especially for those who sideload apps, use outdated devices, or want the convenience of extra security features. As malware threats on Android are likely to increase in the future, it’s wise to take every precaution to safeguard your device.
If you value the peace of mind that comes with added protection, then installing one of the best Android antivirus apps might be the right choice for you. However, always remember that the best defense is a combination of common sense and smart device habits.
You might also want to know if do you need antivirus for iPhone.
