6 best Android security apps

Avast Mobile Security

Avast Mobile Security is one of the most popular and highly-rated antivirus apps on Google Play Store. It offers a wide range of features, including real-time protection against viruses, trojans, spyware, and more. The app also provides web shield protection to block malicious websites during browsing, as well as anti-theft measures like remote device location tracking, locking, and wiping.

    Key Features:

    • Real-time antivirus scanning
    • App Lock for protecting specific apps with a password
    • Wi-Fi Security to check network vulnerabilities
    • Photo Vault for hiding sensitive photos and videos

    Bitdefender Mobile Security & Antivirus

    Bitdefender is known for its robust antivirus protection on desktop platforms, and the Android app delivers similarly impressive results. It offers comprehensive security features like real-time malware scanning, web protection, anti-theft capabilities, and even a VPN service (with limited free usage). The app also includes an optimization tool to free up storage space and boost device performance.

      Key Features:

      • Advanced real-time virus and malware detection
      • Web Protection to block malicious URLs
      • Anti-Theft features like remote location tracking, locking, and wiping
      • App Lock for securing sensitive apps

      Kaspersky Internet Security for Android

      Kaspersky is another well-established name in the cybersecurity industry, and its Android app offers a strong suite of security features. It provides real-time antivirus protection, along with additional safeguards like anti-phishing measures, automatic updates to the virus database, and remote device management tools. The premium version also includes features like App Lock, Anti-Theft, and an emergency SMS alert system.

        Key Features:

        • Real-time malware scanning
        • Web Protection against phishing and malicious websites
        • Automatic updates for the virus database
        • Anti-Theft capabilities for locating and protecting your device

        Norton Mobile Security

        Norton is another popular choice among Android users seeking robust security solutions. The app offers comprehensive protection features such as real-time malware scanning, anti-phishing measures, Wi-Fi security checks, and an app advisor to help you identify potential risks in downloaded apps. It also includes a feature called “Sneak Peek” that shows you what’s happening on your device when it’s locked.

          Key Features:

          • Real-time virus and malware detection
          • App Advisor to assess the safety of installed or newly-downloaded apps
          • Wi-Fi Security to identify network vulnerabilities
          • Sneak Peek for monitoring lock screen activity

          McAfee Mobile Security

          McAfee offers a feature-rich Android security app with real-time malware scanning, web protection against phishing sites, and anti-theft capabilities like remote device location tracking and locking. The app also includes a built-in performance optimizer to help free up storage space, extend battery life, and improve overall device speed.

            Key Features:

            • Real-time antivirus scanning
            • Web Protection to block malicious URLs
            • Anti-Theft features for locating and protecting your device remotely
            • Performance optimizer to free up storage and boost speed

            ESET Mobile Security & Antivirus

            ESET’s Android security app provides strong malware protection, along with additional tools like a built-in app locker, anti-theft capabilities, and Wi-Fi network security checks. The app also offers a unique “Child Protection” feature that allows you to restrict access to specific apps or website categories for your kids.

              Key Features:

              • Real-time virus and malware detection
              • App Lock for securing sensitive applications with a password
              • Anti-Theft measures like remote location tracking, locking, and wiping
              • Child Protection to control app usage and block inappropriate websites

              All of these Android security apps offer robust protection against various cyber threats. The choice depends on your specific needs, such as whether you prioritize anti-theft features, web protection, or performance optimization. Many of them also include a free trial period for premium features, so you can test out the app before committing to a subscription.