The best Android antivirus software will help you maintain security, privacy and performance on your phone or tablet. The top antivirus apps are easy to install and use, with easy-to-use settings and readily available extra features. They also include numerous features that enhance device performance such as system optimization tools and anti-theft protections.
There are many free and paid applications that offer excellent malware detection and prevention rates. Some of the best apps also come with useful anti-theft features like the ability to remotely locate or wipe the device that was stolen. Others bolster protection with features like call blocking and Wi-Fi scanning.
With the proliferation of devices there cyber-criminals and malware writers are constantly on the lookout for ways to steal, hack or ransom personal information. This has resulted in millions of dollars being stolen and a huge amount of computing power being offered to hackers.
Although the majority of Android phones and tablets have Google Play Protect built in, this isn’t a foolproof solution. Its dismal malware detection rates are one of the main arguments to use an alternative third-party Android antivirus instead.
Bitdefender is one of the top Android antivirus options. It has earned high marks from independent labs, and has a wide array of useful features in addition to its antivirus scanning. These include a Permissions Manager which rates apps on their privacy scale and an Identity Safeguard feature that checks whether your email address has been leaked in any major data breaches, as well as performance-enhancing apps such as a junk cleaner and RAM booster. A premium plan costs $15 to $30 a year Some add additional features like unlimited access to a VPN service at an additional fee.