Smartphones have become an indispensable part of our daily lives. We use them for everything – from accessing emails, paying bills to storing personal information. However, with Android being the most popular mobile operating system globally, it also makes Android devices prime targets for cyberattacks.
Threats like malware, spyware, phishing attacks can easily steal sensitive data or even take control of your device. Even basic threats like adware can violate your privacy by tracking your activity. This is why having reliable security apps is crucial for Android users.
In this comprehensive guide, we will look at 14 highly recommended Android security apps that provide an extra layer of protection against various threats.
Why are Security Apps Important for Android Devices?
Android is known to be more vulnerable compared to iOS when it comes to security issues. Reasons include:
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Android lets you install apps from multiple sources unlike iOS which has tighter control. This increases the risk of installing malware-infected apps, especially from unreliable sources.
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Many Android devices do not receive latest security updates in a timely manner or at all once they are older than 2 years. This results in known vulnerabilities not getting patched.
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Open-source nature of Android OS allows cybercriminals to easily discover exploits. Recent reports found over 400 vulnerabilities in Android OS.
This highlights the need for security apps as an extra security measure regardless of which Android device you use. Failing to do so can lead to compromise of personal information, identity theft, financial fraud if your device gets hacked.
Now let‘s look at some of the top-rated Android security apps you should consider installing.
1. Bitdefender Mobile Security
Bitdefender Mobile Security is a complete security suite that provides protection against all kinds of Android threats. It boasts of having one of the highest malware detection rates in independent antivirus testing.
Key Features:
- Antivirus engine continuously monitors for malware, spyware, adware etc.
- Privacy advisor audits apps permissions to prevent privacy violations
- Secure browsing checks web traffic for malicious links/sites
- App locker allows locking down sensitive apps
- Anti-theft lets you locate, lock or wipe your device remotely
- Free 14-day trial available
Bitdefender offers both free and paid premium plans. For maximum protection, the paid subscription is recommended.
Try Bitdefender Mobile Security
2. Norton 360
Owned by popular cybersecurity vendor NortonLifeLock, Norton 360 provides comprehensive mobile security for Android devices against existing and emerging threats.
Why Choose Norton 360?
- Powerful antivirus engine coupled with intelligent firewall for real-time threat protection
- Dark web monitoring alerts you if personal information is compromised
- WiFi security checks networks for vulnerabilities before connecting
- App advisor analyzes app reputation before downloading
- Comes with full-fledged VPN for secure browsing
- 30-day free trial to test out premium features
With all core security features packed into one app, Norton 360 is undoubtedly one of the best options for securing Android devices.
3. McAfee Mobile Security
Developed by Intel-owned McAfee, this security app leverages advanced AI and machine learning to offer robust multi-layered protection.
Why Choose McAfee?
- Intelligent antivirus engine detects and blocks latest threats
- App lock secures sensitive apps like social media, banking etc.
- WiFi security scan checks networks for risks before connecting
- Identity protection monitors for password leaks and data breaches
- Battery optimizer boosts battery performance
- 7-day free trial to test premium version
McAfee mobile security offers very robust Android protection and is also light-weight making it easy recommendation.
4. Avast Mobile Security
Offering over 100 million downloads on the Google Play Store, Avast Mobile Security is one of the most popular Android antivirus apps globally.
Why Choose Avast?
- Very high malware detection rate during tests
- WiFi security checker scans networks for potential risks
- App lock feature allows locking down key apps like social media & banking apps
- Audits app permissions to prevent privacy violations
- Includes limited VPN for secure browsing
- Available for free with option to upgrade
For basic antivirus protection including features like app locker, app privacy checker etc. the free version of Avast is a great choice.
Download Avast Mobile Security
5. Malwarebytes Mobile Security
While being lesser known to Android users than brands like Avast & Norton, Malwarebytes offers one of the best Android security and antivirus solutions. Independent testing shows it has high threat detection rates.
Why Choose Malwarebytes?
- Proactive ransomware protection blocks unknown ransomware variants
- Powerful web protection blocks phishing scams and sites
- App audit checks for risky permissions before installing apps
- Integrates with Chrome browser to monitor web traffic
- 14-day free trial + affordable paid plans
For advanced threat protection capabilities beyond just basic antivirus, Malwarebytes security app is highly recommended.
Download Malwarebytes Security
6. Lookout Mobile Security
While not being as feature-rich as other apps in this list, Lookout focuses on core essentials like malware scanning, web protection, missing device features etc.
Key Highlights:
- Lightweight app with easy interface
- Allows locating and locking missing device
- Scans downloads and memory for malware
- Protects against phishing sites while browsing
- Affordable pricing and 15-day free trial
Those looking for basic security features without too complex interfaces will find Lookout useful.
7. ESET Mobile Security
Offering multiple layers of Android security, ESET is trusted by over 110 million users globally. It offers well-balanced capabilities at competitive pricing.
Why Choose ESET?
- Proven antivirus capability showing high detection rates
- Anti-theft feature lets you track, lock and erase data
- App lockdown allows securing sensitive apps
- Integrates across devices allowing managing security from desktop
- 30-day free trial available
For a robust set of Android protection and utility features, ESET makes for reliable choice.
8. Kaspersky Mobile Antivirus
Offering protection against viruses, trojans, spyware, adware and more threats, Kaspersky Mobile Antivirus leverages leading cybersecurity technology.
Why Choose Kaspersky?
- Proven high malware detection rates during antivirus tests
- Real-time protection against the latest Android threats
- Integrated VPN allows secure anonymous browsing
- App lockdown protects sensitive apps like banking & social media
- Free version available with option to upgrade
Known for its advanced threat research capabilities, Kaspersky offers very reliable Android security for free and is easy to recommend.
9. AVG Antivirus
Offered by Avast-owned AVG, this security app provides core antivirus capabilities alongwith useful utilities like battery saver, storage cleaner etc.
Key Features:
- Scans apps, files and memory for malware threats
- Blocks infected links while browsing websites
- App locking allows securing sensitive apps
- Built-in junk file cleaner & battery optimizer
- Available for free with upgrade option
For basic antivirus capabilities, AVG is a decent option. However, the free version shows ads.
10. Trend Micro Mobile Security
This offering from popular cybersecurity vendor Trend Micro offers robust Android protection at competitive pricing.
Why Choose Trend Micro?
- Blocks ransomware, malware, spyware effectively
- Secure browsing checks sites for threats
- App audit analyzes permissions before installing
- Privacy scanner finds sensitive data shared by apps
- 30-day free trial
While being lesser known among average users, Trend Micro offers enterprise-grade capabilities at affordable consumer pricing that makes it appealing.
11. ExpressVPN
While not a full-fledged security suite, ExpressVPN focuses specifically on privacy protection by encrypting web traffic via VPN tunneling.
Why Choose ExpressVPN?
- Hides your digital footprint and online activity
- Prevents ISPs from tracking browsing history
- Encrypts data to protect against snooping on public WiFi
- Works with video streaming sites like Netflix
- 30-day money back guarantee
For privacy-focused users, a dedicated VPN service like ExpressVPN is a must even if you‘re already using a security app.
12. GlassWire Firewall
Acting as an advanced network monitoring tool, GlassWire firewall and analyzer detects threats, unusual traffic spikes and data usage by apps.
Key Capabilities:
- Real-time alerts onpotential threats
- Full application traffic analyzer
- WiFi stumbler detects nearby networks
- Free & paid versions available
While most mobile security suites do offer firewall protection, GlassWire offers vastly more detailed network activity monitoring and analysis capabilities that security-conscious users will find very useful.
13. Orbot VPN
Provided by the Tor Project community, Orbot is a free and open-source VPN app that allows users to access the web anonymously by routing web traffic through the Tor network.
Why Use Orbot?
- Totally hides your digital identity and online activity
- Routes traffic through multiple encrypted hops for maximum anonymity
- Allows access to onion sites not available on regular internet
- Completely free and open-source application
If complete anonymity is your goal while accessing websites, using Tor through Orbot will be very effective since it hides your tracks well. This however comes at the cost of slower speeds.
14. Firefox Focus
Offered by Mozilla, makers of the Firefox browser, Firefox Focus secures Android browsing by blocking ads & trackers. This minimizes data leakage.
Key Highlights:
- Blocks ads and third-party trackers while browsing
- Erases browsing history and cookies on exiting
- Offers simplified browser interface
- Completely free to use
As a privacy-focused secure browser for Android, Firefox Focus is a good option – especially alongside your existing security app.
How to Choose the Right Security Apps?
With so many options available, choosing the ideal security apps can get confusing. Here are some tips:
Know Your Requirements
Evaluate whether you‘re looking for antivirus-focused protection or also need features like VPN, firewall, safe browsing etc. This helps narrow down options.
Stick to Reputed Brands
Trust apps from well-established cybersecurity vendors who invest in continual threat research and updates.
Check Independent Testing
Consult recent tests by labs like AV-Test which evaluate various factors like malware detection rates.
Compare Pricing & Features
While free apps can be handy, premium versions offer much better protection. So weigh features vs price.
Read User Reviews
Go through user reviews on app stores to gauge real-world performance instead of claims alone. Identify any major complaints.
Check App Permissions
Regardless of app chosen, check what key permissions are being requested and disable anything unnecessary that can cause privacy concerns.
So to wrap up, mobile devices face a variety of risks from malware to phishing scams to network attacks. Having reliable security tools for your Android phone or tablet is crucial to stay safe.
Evaluate some of the highly recommended Android security apps listed here against your specific needs to decide the best option for ensuring robust protection. Staying vigilant about app permissions and safe browsing/download habits will also go a long way in keeping your smartphone secure.
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