Some even asked for unnecessary permissions to harvest my data!
Unlike many apps, Norton doesnt share customer data with third parties.
The web protections also highlight dangerous links on social media and certain messaging apps.
I was very satisfied with my overall experience using Norton.
Its also easy to use and keeps notifications to a minimum.
NortonMobile Securityis available as a standalone purchase (or as part of Nortons excellent internet security suites).
Nortons Android app is available as a standalone purchase or as part of Nortons360 DeluxeandLifeLockplans.
The app is also incredibly easy to use, so its a great choice for beginners.
The free, security-first internet tool is backed by Total Search, TotalAVs search engine.
It blocks trackers and dangerous sites and automatically erases your browsing data.
I was pleased to discover that TotalAV barely affected my phones performance.
All TotalAV plans are backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Using cloud-scanning technology, Bitdefenders free Android antivirus equips your Android unit with effective virus detection.
The scanner examines your files as well as apps, ensuring your Android rig is kept clean and safe.
This feature offers peace of mind as you try new applications, keeping you informed and protected.
But thats all Bitdefenders free app does, really.
However, Bitdefender offers greater protection through a premium app called BitdefenderMobile Security.
Its App Anomaly Detection monitors app behaviors for any unusual activity.
Web Protection and Scam Alert guard against phishing and fraudulent sites.
That may sound like a lot, but despite the numerous features, the app is very streamlined.
Most notifications are actually useful, and the app doesnt affect performance very much.
I recommend getting one of these as youll be covered by Bitdefenders 30-day money-back guarantee.
Bitdefenders free Android app offers great malware protection, but thats it.
Youll need the premium app to get web security, anti-theft tools, and the App Anomaly Detection feature.
Bitdefender is very easy to set up and use, making it a really good choice for non-technical users.
All premium plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
The big downside is that its supported by video ads, but you wont encounter them very often.
On the plus side, unlike most free competitors, Panda doesnt sell any user data.
Pandas real-time scanner detected most malware samples, but not as many asNortonorTotalAV.
Panda also includes anti-theft features like remote location tracking, data wipe, and equipment locking.
The privacy auditing feature in Panda Dome also works really well.
PandaDomealso comes with a freeVPN, but it only includes 150 MB per day.
This is barely enough for light browsing.
All of Pandas internet security packages include a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee when you buy through its website.
Pandas free Android antivirus app provides real-time malware scanning, anti-theft tools, and convenient compatibility with Android smartwatches.
Users looking to get a VPN with unlimited data should consider the Panda Dome Premium antivirus package.
I really like the privacy scanner.
In addition, Aviras Call Blocker is effective at mitigating unwanted or nuisance calls.
Theres also an app locker and a tool that highlights files taking up lots of space.
However, it does share user activity data with third parties, which is a shame.
Also, it doesnt have anti-phishing protection.
Buy AviraPrimethrough the official site, and youll get a generous 60-day money-back guarantee.
In addition to malware protection, Avira comes with an app privacy scanner and a Wi-Fi scanner.
I also like Aviras VPN a lot, but the limit of 1 GB/month isnt enough for most users.
Aviras yearly paid plans all have a risk-free 60-day money-back guarantee.
It offers decent protection, but its not as feature-rich as top competitors likeNorton.
I also like the Web Shield feature, which successfully blocked every phishing site I tried to visit.
Unfortunately, the free version is supported by ads, and these can be rather annoying.
On top of this, it isnt ashamed of upselling and issues too many notifications.
Avasts Hack Alerts feature provides basic data breach monitoring.
It works, but its a far cry from Nortons mobile identity protection tools.
Every free Android app that made this list did well by these metrics, outshining the competition.
Thats why I advise against relying solely on a free antivirus app on your Android equipment.
Fortunately, quality antivirus suites are available at very affordable prices.
Free vs.
Typically, they provide a malware scanner, Wi-Fi scanner, and app privacy options.
For example, the free plan from Avira excludes anti-phishing protection and microphone and camera security.
The top paid antiviruses give you access to a wide range of internet security features.
One frustration with free antiviruses is their reliance on ads and frequent upsells.
These can interrupt your experience and give the impression that the app is more concerned with sales than security.
Additionally, paid services provide comprehensive customer support, including 24/7 access via live chat or phone.
Overall, free antivirus plans for Android provide decent protection.
Frequently updated and fully integrated across all rig types.
Available through separate apps and extensions, if offered.
Advanced web protection typically integrated within the app.
Limited data and server options if available.
Unlimited data, multiple server choices, and additional privacy features included.
Primarily supports Android, but features may be limited compared to other platforms.
Comprehensive coverage and optimization for Android and other devices.
Rarely included; features are basic if available.
Extensive features with less restrictions than free versions.
Fairly weak, with developers collecting and often selling data to others.
Basic, often restricted to FAQs and community forums.
Full support with phone, email, and live chat options.
There are even fake antivirus apps that are actually malicious files themselves!
Theones on this listare all safe.
Ive thoroughly tested these apps, and theyre all legitimate, safe, and work exactly as promised.
Each app comes from a brand with a strong reputation for creating excellent cybersecurity products.
Will an Android antivirus drain my battery?
Features like real-time scanning, cloud-based scanning, and frequent updates can contribute to higher battery usage.
Do I need an antivirus on my Android phone?
The short answer is yes!
Whencompared to other platforms like iOS, Android isnt all that secure of an operating system.
Android OS is notable for having tons of indie developers, coders, and modders around the globe.
Unfortunately, this also makes it a playground for hackers.
Ransomware, spyware, cryptojacking software, surveillance apps, and other malware compromise Android users every single day.
Android users also face risks from phishing sites, smishing links, and even pickpockets.
What kind of features can you get with an Android antivirus app?
What are the best free antivirus apps for Android?
Are free Android antiviruses good?
Some are, but most arent.
There are lots of free Android apps that you definitely dont want on your phone.
Lots of them will sell your personal data while doing little to enhance your security.
Some are just straight-up spyware.
But there are a few which have genuinely effective features and dont share any significant user data, likeBitdefender.
Can Android devices be hacked?
Can I use a free Android antivirus on a Chromebook?
Yes, you’re able to use a free Android antivirus on a Chromebook.
Can a free antivirus detect and remove malware?
A free antivirus can detect and remove many types of malware.
Apps such asBitdefenderhad strong malware detection and removal capabilities in my tests.
For complete peace of mind,a premium antivirus appis the wiser choice.
Does Android have a built-in antivirus?
Yes, Android does have a built-in system for detecting and dealing with threats known as Google Play Protect.
However, Google Play Protect doesnt provide the same level of protection as dedicated antivirus apps likeNorton.
For these reasons, Id recommend supplementing it with a reliable antivirus app.
