Unlike Apple devices, which only allow downloads from the App Store to protect users from fake apps, Android allows you to install APK files.
However, these are at risk of being infected with viruses created by cybercriminals.
They are subject to less control and may, even if removed from Google Play, reappear.
Androids are therefore vulnerable to hacking and phishing, just like PCs.
Do you need antivirus on your Android?
We advise you to install an antivirus on your device so that you are protected from phishing e-mails and dubious advertisements.
In addition to the standard protection offered by an antivirus, some offer features such as anti-theft (to lock and/or erase your data remotely in the event that your Android is lost or stolen), take photos or audio recordings of the thief(s).
Another useful feature often found in security apps for Android is call blocking. If, for example, you frequently receive unwanted calls or spam, then you can block the senders, so they can no longer bother you.
Some antiviruses also include application managers, so you can block access to websites by password. Which is very practical if you often lend your device to your children.
In total, AV-Comparative tested 250 applications but only 80 managed to identify at least 30% of the malware without false alarms.
To browse the internet with peace of mind, here is our selection of the best antivirus applications for Android that have succeeded in detecting 90% to 100% of viruses and malware.
Think your device is already infected? Then go to our tutorial How to remove a virus on Android.
1
BitDefender Mobile Security
- Indicated price:
BitDefender Mobile Security received a near-perfect score in the AV-test evaluation in November 2019. The antivirus spots malicious apps in real time on your device and across Android platforms.
Bitdefender's strong point is that it includes a VPN, among its complementary features (anti-theft, privacy protection, etc.).
If you want to test this application, good news there is a free trial version for 14 days.
On the other hand, it has limitations such as the absence of parental control, a call blocking option or even data backup.
2Norton mobile security
- Indicated price:
Very popular with PC users, Norton antivirus is also available on Android.
During the AV-test it managed to detect 100% of the attacks and it has very useful features such as restoring contacts or locating your smartphone in the event of loss of it.
The subscription is expensive, but it can be used on several devices (iPad and iPhone included).
3Sophos Mobile Security Free Edition
- Indicated price:
Sophos Mobile Security was one of the best antiviruses according to tests conducted by AV-Test. It is free and includes many features including app scanning, spam and privacy protection.
It can also detect applications that access your personal data.
In addition, its protection functions against loss and theft include remote data locking, deletion, or the possibility of locating your device.
4Kaspersky Internet Security for Android
- Indicated price:
During AV-test trials, Kaspersky Internet Security detected 99,6% of real-time viruses and 100% of malware released during the previous 4 weeks.
The application exists in free and paid versions, the latter of course offers a range of additional features such as automatic analysis of your device or blocking of dangerous websites.
5Avast Mobile Security
- Indicated price:
Avast Mobile Security caught 99,9% of malware in AV-Test trials and the app is free!
Avast Mobile Security allows, among other things, to block unwanted calls, lock applications and analyze your device.
6Free AVG Antivirus
- Indicated price:
AVG, like Sophos, is a free antivirus that got a perfect score in the latest tests. Avast and AVG are owned by the same company, so it's no surprise that they use the same technology and score the same.
The downside here is that if you want to take advantage of additional features, such as app lock, photo trap or even backup of your apps, you will have to download the Pro version as soon as your trial period ends. 30 days.
7Mc Afee Mobile Security
- Indicated price:
McAfee's Mobile Security app scored 100% in the latest AV-Test report. It is therefore an excellent antivirus to secure for your Android smartphone or tablet.
It includes the standard features like protection against spyware, malicious sites or applications, but it also includes anti-theft options, privacy and tools to optimize the performance of your device.
8Avira Antivirus Security for Android
- Indicated price:
This free Avira application offers users a lot of protections and features. Obtaining near-perfect AV-Test scores, Avira Antivirus is a security app that comes from Germany and has already been downloaded more than 10 million times on the Google Play Store.
You get premium, active ransomware protection.
It also secures your privacy and identity to prevent hackers from stealing your personal data, as well as anti-theft tools if your device is stolen.
Finally, know that it includes cleaning tools and a VPN, with a limit of 100 MB.
For additional features, upgrade to its paid plan.
