Smartphone antivirus

On the other hand, F-Secure had carved out in several features of its mobile version and no longer offers, for example, homemade anti-theft or confidentiality analysis of applications. The shape is therefore impeccable, but the bottom a little too minimalist if you are looking for other features than the essential antivirus protection.

Best antivirus for Android, the 2023 comparison

Android’s success cannot be denied. The mobile operating system which could well pass the symbolic bar of 3 billion users in the coming months represents a particularly attractive market for antivirus publishers. Reverse of the medal, it constitutes in the same way a privileged target for cybercriminals. Although Google continues to strengthen the native security of its bone, it remains particularly vulnerable to cyber attacks. Only antivirus safety consequences are able to ensure protection against all forms of known and unknown threats (without signature) which swarm on the platform. Here is our record of Best antivirus For Android for the start of the school year in September 2023.

• Mood trial 30 days
• Devices 3 to 10 devices
• anti-phishing phishing included
• Local_atm anti-ransomware included
• Groups Parental control included

• Mood test 14 days
• Devices 10 devices
• anti-phishing phishing included
• Local_atm anti-ransomware included
• Groups Parental control included

• Mood limited free version
• Devices 5 devices
• anti-phishing phishing included
• Local_atm anti-ransomware included
• Groups No parental control

The best antivirus for Android in September 2023:

• Bitdefender Mobile Security
• Norton 360 Mobile Security
• Avast One
• G Data Mobile Security
• ESET Mobile Security
• McAfee Security
• F-Secure Safe
• Avira Prime
• Trend Micro Mobile Security
• AVG Antivirus

From malware, phishing campaigns, including malicious applications, spy software, SMS and fraudulent calls, Android is threatened on all sides. No less than 90 % of all malicious programs now target Android. It must be said that the open design of the bone makes it particularly vulnerable to computer threats. Even if Google has not spared its efforts in recent years to strengthen system defenses and filter potentially malicious applications, only certain antivirus applications offer truly effective overall protection. For this, they rely on detection engines based on artificial intelligence and automatic learning technologies capable of identifying and blocking known and still unknown threats (not listed).

The most complete antivirus applications also incorporate additional safety tools such as Wi-Fi protection, an anti-phishing module, an intelligent firewall, a VPN, a password manager, a quantified cloud space, or a Identity protection. Some also offer interesting features specifically dedicated to mobile terminals: a module for monitoring legitimate or illegitimate data operated by applications, an anti -theft allowing to erase the content of the terminal in the event of theft, lock the SIM card, or ring a Remote alarm, etc. Antivirus for Android are also distinguished by their interface and their ergonomics, as well as their prices. So many criteria to be monitored before choosing the antivirus solution for Android which best suits its needs and budget.

• Bitdefender Mobile Security
• Norton 360 Mobile Security
• Avast One
• G Data Mobile Security
• ESET Mobile Security
• McAfee Security
• F-Secure Safe
• Avira Prime
• Trend Micro Mobile Security
• AVG Antivirus
• What does an antivirus do on Android ?
• Should we install an antivirus on Android ?

Bitdefender Mobile Security

• Excellent report features/price of the subscription
• Flawless efficiency of the service
• Light impact on performance

Bitdefender continues on the momentum of the previous versions with an effective effective always. To detect and block any type of threat from the Internet, the rest makes one without faults. No false positive is to be reported, and it has no significant impact on Windows performance. The software protects your flawless computer, so. Compared to the previous versions, we regret some interface choices that lean too much on the side of the general public, even if we always salute the editor’s didactic effort. The Bitdefender suite is undoubtedly one of the best security suites for Windows to protect your files, at an attractive price for the purchase of the subscription. It is also available on the Apple and Android system

Bitdefender continues on the momentum of the previous versions with an effective effective always. To detect and block any type of threat from the Internet, the rest makes one without faults. No false positive is to be reported, and it has no significant impact on Windows performance. The software protects your flawless computer, so. Compared to the previous versions, we regret some interface choices that lean too much on the side of the general public, even if we always salute the editor’s didactic effort. The Bitdefender suite is undoubtedly one of the best security suites for Windows to protect your files, at an attractive price for the purchase of the subscription. It is also available on the Apple and Android system

Like its Windows version, Bitdefender Mobile Security is a complete and efficient mobile suite. The analytical engine is among the best in independent laboratories tests. On the March 2022 AV test test, the solution detects 100% of threats collected over 4 weeks and also blocks 100% of recent malicious software attacks, all without false positives and with a minimum impact on the system. The latest test bench compared to the same conclusion.

The interface of Bitdefender Mobile Security is clean, almost a little too much: the home screen is only used for displaying the level of security and autopilot recommendations when there are some. Previously one could access the VPN, but the latter now has a separate app. That said, you can easily find the features via the lower icon bar. As on the Windows version, we appreciate the educational effort on most screens that distill information and advice on the types of threats and good practices to respect.

In terms of features precisely, beyond the background protection and antivirus analyzes, Bitdefender offers web protection that fits into most Android browsers, a powerful anti-theftsman with the possibility of photographing the person who stole their smartphone, and a “Anti Scam” tool. This analyzes notifications or messages looking for potential scams.

Ultimately, Bitdefender Mobile Security is a very good solution to install on your smartphone, offering good protection while remaining relatively discreet.

Norton 360 Mobile Security

• Robust and light anti -virus protection
• Great ease of use
• VPN included and unlimited (Standard, Deluxe and Advanced)

Available on several devices, Norton 360 remains a very good safety solution all in one for the general public against the threats of the Internet. Protection, can be a little too aggressive to avoid false positives, is very efficient. The impact on Windows performance is always minimal. The unlimited VPN remains an interesting asset, even if others have followed suit since. Expert users will probably prefer a kaspersky or a bitdefender, but Norton 360 is currently our favorite solution for the family.

Available on several devices, Norton 360 remains a very good safety solution all in one for the general public against the threats of the Internet. Protection, can be a little too aggressive to avoid false positives, is very efficient. The impact on Windows performance is always minimal. The unlimited VPN remains an interesting asset, even if others have followed suit since. Expert users will probably prefer a kaspersky or a bitdefender, but Norton 360 is currently our favorite solution for the family.

The editor with yellow boxes has a frankly well -designed, complete and easy -to -use mobile safety solution. In terms of efficiency, first of all, Norton 360 Mobile Security achieves a flawlessness on the latest measures of AV test like those of comparative av, as well as almost all of the consequences. But above all, a much better result than that of Playprotect, the antivirus integrated into the play store. The laboratory also notes any particular impact on Android’s performance, nor any false positive on the test period.

The Norton 360 Mobile interface evolves regularly with a little paint and it can be said that it is consistent and tidy. The different features are properly hierarchical, the titles are clear, all this is clean and well thought out. On the other hand, on the latest version, there seem to be some provision problems with elements which should be in a lower plane and which cover others by accident.

Norton 360’s features are focused on safety and confidentiality. The application automatically analyzes the apps installed and executed and allows you to launch a scan on demand. Web navigation protection is integrated and compatible with the main browsers. Other options make it possible to control the safety of Wi-Fi, to analyze SMS in search of messages at risk, or to consult the level of security of the device, in particular its resistance to the faults. Norton 360 finally gives access to the VPN included in the offer without downloading additional apps.

Norton 360 is a solution rich in functionality and effective, and the continuation on Android quite well reflects the editor’s approach and completes multiappareil protection in a relevant way

Avast One

• Very easy to use
• Unlimited VPN included
• The effectiveness

Avast One is a new, fairly relevant offer in the editor’s range. The effectiveness of the antivirus protection of the suite does not seem to have moved and remains among the most reactive, even on threats still recent. The interface relies on simplicity and consistency between desktop and mobile, and overall, it is quite successful, although the very general public approach can put off certain users who will feel somewhat infantilized. With fairly complete functions (VPN, privacy protection, system optimization and maintenance), there is a good family security suite. On the other hand, we regret that the publisher has gone on certain features or simplified others in a little too aggressive way (we think of the firewall) in his perspective of making his suite more readable for the general public.

Avast One is a new, fairly relevant offer in the editor’s range. The effectiveness of the antivirus protection of the suite does not seem to have moved and remains among the most reactive, even on threats still recent. The interface relies on simplicity and consistency between desktop and mobile, and overall, it is quite successful, although the very general public approach can put off certain users who will feel somewhat infantilized. With fairly complete functions (VPN, privacy protection, system optimization and maintenance), there is a good family security suite. On the other hand, we regret that the publisher has gone on certain features or simplified others in a little too aggressive way (we think of the firewall) in his perspective of making his suite more readable for the general public.

Avast has revised its strategy around its different offers and today offers two mobile applications: Avast Mobile Security and Avast One. The first is an antivirus that offers basic features: antivirus protection, unnecessary file cleaning, RAM optimization and Wi-Fi analysis. The app has advertisements in its free version interface.

Avast One is the mobile version of the suite also available on Windows and MacOS and takes up this anchoring to the general public intended to educate users on safety and confidentiality. It offers essential features in free version such as manual threat analysis, web protection or limited VPN. If you have a subscription to Avast One, the suite lifts the VPN limit and allows automatic analysis of all the apps installed.

On the latest AV tests of March 2022, Avast ranks among the many applications that make a lack of detection and blocking, without false positive and without negative impact on system performance. During the last Android Benchmark of AV comparative in July 2021, the solution also made a faultless.

Avast One offers a neat interface consistent with the desktop versions. Like McAfee, Avast has bet on the educational side to guide users and alert them to security and confidentiality problems. This can be annoying for informed users, but Avast One is perhaps one of the best antivirus solutions to install on the smartphone of non-technophiles.

G Data Mobile Security

G Data Total Security

• Always as effective
• Very customizable for experts
• Performance optimization features

G Data offers a software suite for protection against viruses and other computer threats. If the concept of leaving the user of the user of the precise number of devices he wishes to protect the user makes it possible to justify a tailor-made price is rather well thought out, we nevertheless regret the software interface in itself. The graphics and the feeling of an aging ergonomics may not make a good impression, which is however essential in the computer security sector where the user needs to be reassured.

G Data offers a software suite for protection against viruses and other computer threats. If the concept of leaving the user of the user of the precise number of devices he wishes to protect the user makes it possible to justify a tailor-made price is rather well thought out, we nevertheless regret the software interface in itself. The graphics and the feeling of an aging ergonomics may not make a good impression, which is however essential in the computer security sector where the user needs to be reassured.

G Data, on mobile as on desktop, does not highly evolve its solutions, but its G Data Mobile Security suite remains a solid offer for Android. Effectiveness against threats is required: G Data is one of the publishers who succeed in the 100% on the two AV Test tests (real -time detection and protection), as well as on the latest benchmark in comparative avowal , all without generating the slightest positive positive. Both does not detect any Android slowdown caused by the installation of the app or any impact on the battery.

The interface is classic, but clean. Sign that she should perhaps evolve more frequently, we deplore the use of a “hamburger” menu in fashion for navigation in the main features. G Data catches up with a didactic effort in the various screens: all the features are associated with very detailed explanations.

The features, precisely, do in the classic: antivirus protection, web protection applied to the main browsers, locking certain applications by password or biometrics and anti -theft. No wonder since G Data is obviously not in the race for VPN type features or Dark Web watch, including in its equally “old -fashioned” desktop solutions.

This minimalism can nevertheless play in favor of G Data for those who seek above all the effectiveness and essential functions for a mobile antivirus.

ESET Mobile Security

ESET Mobile Security

• High -level proactive protection
• Intuitive refined interface
• Anti -theft function

ESET Mobile Security is based on multilayer protection that consists of an antivirus and antispyware based on machine learning and artificial intelligence technologies. Capable of blocking the most advanced unknown threats in real time, ESET displays a malware detection rate close to 100 %. Thanks to a very intuitive new modern interface, the latest ESET version for Android is now aimed at technophiles as well as neophytes. Although less complete than Norton or Bitefender, it is characterized by specific features for mobile terminals such as an anti -theft. Regularly rewarded by reference test laboratories as av-test or AV-comparative for its performance, Eset Mobile Security is one of the best possible choices to protect a smartphone or an Android tablet.

ESET Mobile Security is based on multilayer protection that consists of an antivirus and antispyware based on machine learning and artificial intelligence technologies. Capable of blocking the most advanced unknown threats in real time, ESET displays a malware detection rate close to 100 %. Thanks to a very intuitive new modern interface, the latest ESET version for Android is now aimed at technophiles as well as neophytes. Although less complete than Norton or Bitefender, it is characterized by specific features for mobile terminals such as an anti -theft. Regularly rewarded by reference test laboratories as av-test or AV-comparative for its performance, Eset Mobile Security is one of the best possible choices to protect a smartphone or an Android tablet.

With more than 100 million users in 200 countries, ESET’s reputation in the antivirus products market is well established. Much appreciated by experienced users, the ESET Mobile Security application for Android is available in a limited free version, or in a premium version with a 30 -day trial offer. Antivirus is based on multilayer protection technology capable of blocking the most advanced known and unknown threats such as ransomware, brute force attacks, new generation phishing, etc.

Eset has just launched a brand new version of his security suite. The latter has a new dashboard as well as new features aimed at strengthening online confidentiality.Modern and intuitive, the interface enjoys a sleek design with a well -tied menus arrangement. The main features are displayed in the form of a tile: antivirus, anti-highlighting, protection of payments, network inspector, anti-theft of apps, call filter, etc.

Optimized for mobile terminals, the application includes an SMS protection module to block malicious ties and fight against phishing in a proactive manner. Concretely, the software warns the user before he even opens a fraudulent website or a trapped message.

Also very interesting, the safety audit option makes it possible to check and possibly correct the important configurations of the device such as the Wi-Fi module, the storage space, the unknown sources, or the Android system if it is unlocked and therefore more vulnerable. On the latest AV-comparative tests of the end of 2022, ESET ranks among the best security applications for Android with a detection rate of malware of 98.9 % and 0 false positive ! A sure value ..

McAfee Security

McAfee Total Protection

• New coherent and didactic interface
• Effective protection overall
• Focus on the protection of identity

McAfee achieves a good progression on this new version and in the category of safety suites really thought for consumer users, it even rises among the best. Its new interface will necessarily horrible a “power user” which will have the impression of being taken by the hand constantly, but for a solution which is essentially aimed at “technophobic” users, we can appreciate the guidance work and the consistency of the interface, whether between the different screens and between the desktop and mobile versions. He still always misses McAfee this little extra that would allow him to be infallible, and while keeping a very good level of protection, he still seems to accuse a small againstreformance on the threats Zero Day.

McAfee achieves a good progression on this new version and in the category of safety suites really thought for consumer users, it even rises among the best. Its new interface will necessarily horrible a “power user” which will have the impression of being taken by the hand constantly, but for a solution which is essentially aimed at “technophobic” users, we can appreciate the guidance work and the consistency of the interface, whether between the different screens and between the desktop and mobile versions. He still always misses McAfee this little extra that would allow him to be infallible, and while keeping a very good level of protection, he still seems to accuse a small againstreformance on the threats Zero Day.

Like Avast One, McAfee plays on maximum consistency between the desktop and mobile version of its suite, and on an ergonomics designed above all for the general public on a didactic model. Thus the reception does not display a series of features grouped into categories, but a kind of activity thread and recommendations. By tilting on the Services tab, we find the different modules, but again presented in the form of a card with very detailed explanations on their purpose. This can put off a user who knows exactly what he does, but for the general public, this approach is quite successful, readable and affordable.

In terms of efficiency, McAfee is about as well as his competitors on the last tests carried out by Av Test, comparative avo. There is still a small downside with 99.6% in real -time protection. In return the solution does not seem to slow down Android besides.

In terms of features, it is classic: antivirus analysis, web navigation protection, Wi-Fi network analysis, the day before identifier leaks on the canvas and unlimited access to VPN if you have a multi-apparatus subscription.

For those who do not find to complain about their very guided and sometimes a little annoying approach (insistence on the protective score), McAfee Security is a good mobile protection solution for Android.

F-Secure Safe

• VPN included and unlimited
• Very light protection
• Very good efficiency

F-Secure Total is a good suite of security that has the advantage of offering a panel of sufficiently targeted and fairly unique functionalities: unlimited VPN, complete antivirus and effective password manager. The evolution of the user interface leaves us a little perplexed on certain choices, but overall it is relatively judicious, and we like its pedagogical side always present, especially since the publisher has worked on its lightness. We can at the worst of a doubt about the false positives in the absence this year, additional data from comparative av, and on the mobile applications that lose features but overall, it appears that F-Secure has a once again worked his copy.

F-Secure Total is a good suite of security that has the advantage of offering a panel of sufficiently targeted and fairly unique functionalities: unlimited VPN, complete antivirus and effective password manager. The evolution of the user interface leaves us a little perplexed on certain choices, but overall it is relatively judicious, and we like its pedagogical side always present, especially since the publisher has worked on its lightness. We can at the worst of a doubt about the false positives in the absence this year, additional data from comparative av, and on the mobile applications that lose features but overall, it appears that F-Secure has a once again worked his copy.

On Desktop, F-Secure is distinguished by its lightness and its ease of use. This is also the case on the Android version of the solution, but what about its effectiveness ? On AV Test, in March 2022, F-Secure Safe made a little less good than its competitors with 99.9% of threats blocked by real-time protection, and a perfect score on the detection of malicious software. The laboratory notes a false positive when installing applications outside the Google Play Store.

F-Secure Safe has a very airy interface on Android, and since the functionality of the mobile suite are reduced to the minimum, we find ourselves very easily between the three sections: viruses and threats, secure navigation and family protection. As on Windows, it’s clean, well explained, clear and unambiguous without taking the user too much by the hand.

On the other hand, F-Secure had carved out in several features of its mobile version and no longer offers, for example, homemade anti-theft or confidentiality analysis of applications. The shape is therefore impeccable, but the bottom a little too minimalist if you are looking for other features than the essential antivirus protection.

Avira Prime

Avira Prime Antivirus Pro

• Reliable multiplatform coverage
• Powerful antiransomware
• Unlimited Phantom VPN

Avira’s antivirus suite provides excellent multilayer protection on all platforms. The new Avira Prime offer (from € 4.95 to € 9.95/month) in rental format without commitment can be interesting for those who want to combine an unlimited VPN to an antivirus suite. Devoid of certain defenses and most additional features, the basic version Avira Antivirus Pro 2020 is far from being at the level of those of the market tenors such as Norton, Bitdefender or Kaspersky.

Avira’s antivirus suite provides excellent multilayer protection on all platforms. The new Avira Prime offer (from € 4.95 to € 9.95/month) in rental format without commitment can be interesting for those who want to combine an unlimited VPN to an antivirus suite. Devoid of certain defenses and most additional features, the basic version Avira Antivirus Pro 2020 is far from being at the level of those of the market tenors such as Norton, Bitdefender or Kaspersky.

Avira Prime is one of the best most successful mobile antivirus on Android, and like Avast, he modeled his interface and his features on the PC and Mac versions exactly. It is available in free version, or within the Avira Prime suite in a paid version, with additional features.

Avira does not commit a major fault on laboratories’ tests. We still note results a little less good on the detection part on the latest AV test dated, but the difference between 99.9% and 100% is really one ? In terms of the impact on Android’s performance, the laboratory notes anything blocking, and no false positive has been detected during tests. We are therefore in the presence of an effective suite.

The interface is consistent with well -arranged features in three categories: security, confidentiality and performance. All features are accompanied by clear and understandable descriptions and simple pictograms to identify.

The features are relatively complete, even in free version. On the other hand, among black spots, it should be noted that the free Avira free security version does not have web protection unlike AVG or Avast. There is still a panel of fairly varied safety features and access to VPN, limited and without choice of location. In confidentiality features, we appreciate the presence of a unwanted call blocker, even in a free version

Whether you are already subscribed to Avira Prime or looking for a well -designed free antivirus and not too intrusive, Avira Antivirus Security is a good option.

Trend Micro Mobile Security

Trend Micro Maximum Security

• Simple and didactic interface
• Good efficiency in general

Our opinion on trend micro maximum security is generally positive, but the little disappointment that we have already seen remains: with such a successful interface and such a minimalist approach, we would like to be able to recommend this solution for those who do not want to embarrass an antivirus too complex, or too rich in functionalities and parameters. Overall, we could do it. Nevertheless, the small against performance of the detection engine seem to last in certain scenarios and it is therefore difficult for us to be as categorical as we would like.

Our opinion on trend micro maximum security is generally positive, but the little disappointment that we have already seen remains: with such a successful interface and such a minimalist approach, we would like to be able to recommend this solution for those who do not want to embarrass an antivirus too complex, or too rich in functionalities and parameters. Overall, we could do it. Nevertheless, the small against performance of the detection engine seem to last in certain scenarios and it is therefore difficult for us to be as categorical as we would like.

Trend Micro has a solution for Android rather pleasant to use and effective if we are to believe the latest tests of AV test and comparative AV which both noted a faultless detection of threats evaluated. The impact on Android’s performance also seems negligible.

We appreciate the quality of the Trend Micro interface on PC and Mac, and this is also the case for this Android version which is quite pleasant to use on a daily basis by taking up an ergonomics closely close to the Dektop suite. As with Avira in particular, access to the various modules is carried out via well -hierarchical and explicit menus, which never leave the neophyte user on the side. Good job !

On the features side, Trend Micro is both complete and varied, with well thought out and original web safety modules: we can for example launch bank applications in secure mode. Like Avast One, Trend Micro also ventures into the field of social media safety with a module for setting the confidentiality parameters. Anti-theft, checking the security risks of the Wi-Fi network or even protection against scams are there. A fairly complete suite therefore, easy to use, discreet and efficient. If you are already using Trend on Windows, it’s worth installing it on your smartphone.

AVG Antivirus

• Minimalist and simple interface
• Very good detection
• Not too much reminders for the paid version

AVG Antivirus is a good free antivirus, and that’s normal since Avast Security is also. But like his “cousin”, AVG Antivirus is efficient on his protection, but can be a little heavy, while his incentives to buy the paid version, although a little more discreet than on Avast Security, remain relatively intrusive.

AVG Antivirus is a good free antivirus, and that’s normal since Avast Security is also. But like his “cousin”, AVG Antivirus is efficient on his protection, but can be a little heavy, while his incentives to buy the paid version, although a little more discreet than on Avast Security, remain relatively intrusive.

AVG and Avast merged several years ago already and if the two solutions remain, they remain very close. Thus, AVG Antivirus strongly resembles Avast Antivirus to such an extent that one could legitimately wonder if the only difference between the two is not the color palette.

Unsurprisingly, the measures on the latest AV test tests are exactly identical: 100% of the malicious software detected, 100% of blocked attacks, a very reduced impact on the system and no false positive. For comparative av on its July 2021 test, we were a little bit below with 99.6%.

The intrusive presence of advertising in the interface is also identical, the features of the home screen being interspersed with banners. Some features are amputated in the free version such as automatic applications analysis. On the other hand, unlike Avira, the protection of the web browser is one of the modules present in the free version.

In itself, AVG Antivirus is not a bad solution, but it clearly duplicates with Avast, and even if it means adopting a solution from the publisher, as much to opt for Avast One essential which has a more pleasant interface and less hampered by The advertisement.

What does an antivirus do on Android ?

You might think that an antivirus on smartphone is useless, or even impossible to develop. After all, mobile bones are much more locked than Windows or even MacOS. This is true for iOS: on the Apple system, all applications go through the App Store, and Apple has set up very strict limitations in what a mobile application can do, in particular to access the other files present on the device. An antivirus on iOS is therefore non -sense since it could not do what an antivirus does in general.

On Android, the situation is different. Provision to grant the right authorizations after installation, an antivirus can run in the background and analyze the files. For example, when you install an application from the Google Play Store or another source, it can automatically analyze it and identify it or not as malicious software.

An antivirus can also protect web navigation by integrating with one of the browsers available on the Play Store: Chrome integrated with Android obviously, but also Microsoft Edge, Firefox, Opera or Brave.

Most multiappareil safety suites (Windows, MacOS, Mobile, etc.) are now incorporating a VPN. Often, access to this VPN, which can be limited in quota or not, is integrated into the mobile suite, sometimes also used to manage confidentiality features such as monitoring against monitoring.

Finally, another fashionable feature, a mobile antivirus can also help you monitor your identifiers by carrying out a day before your emails or passwords on the Dark Web in search of data leaks.

Should we install an antivirus on Android ?

We said, Android is a little more open than ios. And so, if it is possible to install an antivirus on Android, it is also possible to develop malicious software on the system which in particular derives from another possibility of Google’s OS: the bypass of the Google Play Store. Since its origins, Android only authorizes the Google store to download and install applications. On the other hand, we can completely activate the installation via third sources, whether to go through alternative blinds like that of Amazon for example, or to install files directly .Apk.

This possibility multiplies the risks, because if the apps of the Play Store are supposed to be analyzed and safe, how to check the benevolence of an APK file ? To this, it is important to add that the Play Store is not infallible. Cases of malicious software on the kiosk have already been proven. In addition, whether on comparative or AV test, the antivirus play protect integrated into the Google Play Store is generally rated quite low, far from detecting as many threats as the solutions tested by laboratories.

Without falling into catastrophism, because we still remain far from the situation that we have known under Windows, it may be interesting to complete the defenses of Android with a third -party antivirus.

Smartphone antivirus

Choosing the right smartphone antivirus

Like their counterparts for PC, antivirus for smartphones are not content to protect phones and tablets from malicious codes designed by pirates. They prove to be real Swiss knives supposed to offer complete protection against all kinds of threats.

• 1. Their main features
• 2. The paying for testing
• 3. The free may be enough
• 4. Preinstalled features

Their main features

Antivirus

He compares in real time the downloaded applications, the SMS and MMS received, the E-mail attachments and the websites visited with a database update by the editor. When he spots a malicious code, he blocks it or alerts the user. If performance vary from one solution to another, none is capable of detecting 100 % of threats.

Detection of phishing sites (phishing)

It is supposed to block from the smartphone access to fraudulent sites which take up the appearance of banking sites, telephone operators, administrative services or other to collect personal data and bank details. Unfortunately, our tests show that the effectiveness of this antiphling protection is rarely there.

Protection against sites hosting malicious files

It allows, in theory, to prevent the connection to a site hosting malicious files or verolled applications. Again, efficiency is rarely there.

The antitheft (or antitheft) function

This is certainly the most interesting function. In the event of theft or loss of the phone, you can, thanks to it, view its location on a card a few meters, lock it remotely or delete the data it contains. With some antivirus, you can also take a photo (with a little luck, you will manage to capture the thief’s face) and even make a message appear on the screen. These commands are generally carried out from the publisher’s web interface, and sometimes also by SMS. Ideal for dialogue with the phone even when it is not connected to the Internet (it must however capture the network). Be careful however because certain anti -theft functions only locate the phone if its GPS has been previously activated, does not erase 100 % of data remotely or find their default settings as soon as the battery and the SIM card are removed and discounts.

Deninstallation protection

To be effective, the application should not be able to be deactivated or deleted by a third party. The best solutions require an administrator code and/or a password to delete the application or modify settings. But not all of them take this pain.

The paying for testing

The license of an antivirus for smartphones costs between 8 and 30 € per year, which is not negligible. So, to get an idea of ​​its usefulness before paying, it is advisable to take advantage of the trial period that most publishers offer. It allows you to test in real conditions the full version of the antivirus for a limited time (generally 15 or 30 days) before buying it.

The free may be enough

Most publishers also offer a free version of their antivirus. But beware, because not all of them are. While some incorporate the most useful functions such as threat detection as well as locking and erasure of data remotely, others are clearly insufficient to be effective. Also pay attention to free antivirus only during a limited period (generally 15 to 30 days).

Preinstalled features

Whatever the brand, most smartphones already incorporate location functions. With smartphones running Android, for example, it is possible, from the Android page.com/DeviceManager, to locate his phone, to lock him remotely, to make him ring and even display on the screen a number thanks to which the holder can reach you. However, you must have previously activated the “remote” features in the Settings> Telephone Safety menu. Be careful however because this geolocation only works if the GPS is activated and if the device is on, with an active SIM card, and connected to the Internet.

The precautions to be taken to limit the risks

Whether or not you have installed antivirus software on your smartphone, following these fewer advice will allow you to considerably limit the risk of infection:

• Avoid downloading applications out of the official platform (Play Store on Android, App Store on iPhone, etc.).
• If an email seems doubtful, do not click on the links it contains and do not open attachments.
• Avoid “jailbreaker” the phone. This procedure, which consists in “debriding” the device to bypass protections, tends to make it more vulnerable.
• Do not leave the default PIN code (0000) and think about locking the device in case of standby (see “phone settings” in the menu).
• Use the security features offered by the device. To do this, go to dedicated sites: iCloud.com for iPhone, Windowsphone.com for Windows mobiles, Samsungdive.com for the Samsung under Android. For other models, download an application of the Android Lost type or where’s My Droid.

Which free Android antivirus to choose ?

At a time when smartphones are taking up more and more space in our lives, Android viruses also arrive, virtual threats that try to recover your personal data as well as your bank data. To combat these viruses and take no risk, there are free Android antiviruses. What are their advantages, how to download them and what is the best free Android antivirus ? We take stock.

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Why should you download an Android smartphone antivirus application ?

Android phone without antivirus: what are the risks ?

A Android antivirus is computer software that protects your Android smartphone from viruses of all kinds.

The role of antivirus is to analyze all your data and all the sites you go to in order to inform you in the event of fraudulent site or any type of threat.

A phone that does not includeAndroid phone antivirus Exposes:

• loss of data (contacts, photos, files, personal data or banking data),
• recovery of corrupt files,
• Problems related to his battery,
• Any type of fraud technique such as phishing.

We are talking about phishing (also called a phishing technique) to describe a Online scam based on sending fraudulent emails to individuals. These emails imitate public institutions to perfection in order to recover passwords and banking information from their victims. The technique is simple, when you click on the email in question, you actually go to a Website, This allows fraudsters to recover your bank details.

How to avoid Android flaws and dodge viruses ?

Fraudsters are more and more fraud techniques and have less and less difficult to scam their prey, through targeted viruses for smartphones. It is therefore highly recommended to download an application Smartphone antivirus To avoid all the linked risks mentioned above.

But there are other means not to be a victim of fraud: to avoid Android faults. By this we mean the limits of the operating system in terms of security.

Here are some tips for securing your smartphone. First of all, Never download pirated applications.

You will never know in advance if the Android application in question is carrying a virus or not but know that you take much more risk by downloading an application outside the Play Store. Indeed, these hackled applications can integrate a malicious computer code for the purpose of a scam.

Second fault, when you download an Android application, it often asks you several Access authorizations ::

• internal storage of your smartphone (your contacts, your photos, your files, etc.)),
• to your call journal,
• to your camera smartphone function,
• at the GPS signal of your smartphone,
• to your calendar,
• to your microphone,
• to your messaging applications.

These access can also be hacked in an attempt to recover important personal information. You can manage these access authorizations yourself depending on the Android application, whether when downloading or once the application is installed. Go to the Application settings To authorize or refuse different access to your personal data.

Finally, having a rooted phone has many risks of Android fraud and virus. Root your smartphone means that you become yourself the telephone operating system. It is therefore possible to configure everything you want on your smartphone, without restriction.

It is thus possible to uninstall the default applications of the brand of your smartphone to make more space, to increase the performance of your phone or to save the contents of your device when you change them.

But having a rooted phone opens the door to fraud and scams. Indeed, viruses are all the more capable of harvesting the Content of your messages, in particular through applications such as WhatsApp or Viber.

Android antivirus comparison: top 4 best Android antivirus

You don’t know which antivirus to Android to choose ? Here are our top 4 best Android antivirus.

4. Android free antivirus aviraus

Avira antivirus is simple to use, it takes up little space and offers a sophisticated research algorithm. After several tests, he shows that he is capable of detecting programs of the FUD type, programs which are supposed to pass through the meshes of the net of antivirus.

Avira Antivirus offers different functions such as:

• The blocking of threats, spy software, advertising software and banking horses,
• Protection of your camera, microphone and personal files,
• Analysis of your accounts to detect possible risks (Avira informs you if your account is hacked and when the hacking has taken place),
• The anti -theft function which allows you to locate an Android smartphone that would have been lost or stolen,
• remote mobile locking,
• Deleting the contents of the device remotely.

There is a version Avira antivirus pro at € 7.95 per year. This version is intelligent and safer.

3. Avast Android: Avast antivirus for smartphone

Avast is already well known in the world of antivirus. It now allows you to protect your smartphone from viruses, suspicious applications, keep your privacy and block all the numbers that seem suspicious.

This free antivirus for Android Samsung or for any other Android smartphone also has the capacity to scan your files on a SD card type storage space to free up space in your device.

There are many Avast applications depending on your needs in addition to the free Android antivirus application:

1. Avast Cleaner & Booster to delete all unnecessary files from your smartphone safely.
2. Avast Secureline VPN to sail anonymously.
3. Avast passwords that acts as a secure password manager.
4. Avast Family Space (with the version for parents or for children).

2. Free Android antivirus AVG

AVG Antivirus is a free software which offers several functions:

• Analysis and protection against malware, viruses, spy software, ransomware, Trojan horses and any other malicious software.
• Analysis of possible performance problems of your smartphone.
• Blocking links, attachments and unsect or malicious downloads.
• Protection of your personal and banking data.
• Location of your smartphone in the event of loss or flight and deletion of remote data if necessary.
• Photo trap : If 3 code tests are carried out on your smartphone, a photo is triggered automatically and is sent to your email address.

There exists a paid version AVG antivirus: VPN AVG Secure. The subscription costs € 79.99/year the first year then becomes decreasing with time: € 79.99 for € 1 year, € 149.99 instead of € 159.98 for 2 years, € 219.99 instead of € 239.97 for 3 years.

1. Free antivirus for Android 360 Security

360 Security is considered to be one of the free Android antivirus The easiest to use. This is, among other things, one of the reasons why it is in our opinion the best free Android antivirus on the market.

This antivirus offers a real analysis of viruses, fraudulent sites and unknown or little known software, in order to secure your smartphone permanently. Her Privacy function is also a substantial asset to ensure the security of your personal data.

But the 360 ​​security antivirus is not a simple antivirus, it also allows you to sort through your files, by cleaning everything that is not useful to you, in order to release storage space and ‘Increase performance of your mobile. It also ensures that all the applications that you do not use are well closed in order to maintain the autonomy of your battery and limit your energy consumption.

Finally, it is an antivirus that has the ability to geolocate your device, A more than practical tool in case of loss or theft of your smartphone.

360 Security is one of the free antivirus for Android most downloaded in France.

Internet access providers antivirus

If you are one of the SFR, Orange or Bouygues Telecom customers, you can take out an antivirus with your offer. Operators offer antivirus at a reduced price to their subscribers.

SFR Security: SFR antivirus

The operator offers his subscribers, but also to people who are not one of SFR customers, an antivirus to protect their devices (smartphones, tablets, computers) against virtual threats. SFR Security is available on iOS, Android, Mac and PC but is not compatible with Windows RT and Linux.

Here are the characteristics of SFR Security:

• Protection against infected files, malicious applications and intrusions.
• Protection against fraudulent sites, phishing and pirated emails.
• Protection of your banking and personal data.
• Location of your protected device in the event of theft or loss. You can also secure your device remotely.
• SFR Cloud which allows you to recover your saved data in the event of loss or change of smartphone.

You wish to take out a SFR package ?

SFR offers its antivirus at different prices depending on the option chosen.

SFR security offers and their price

Mobile customers	Box and mobile customers	Non SFR customers
Offer contents	SFR Security for 1 equipment SFR Password for 1 equipment	SFR Security for 5 equipment SFR Password for 10 equipment	SFR Security for 5 equipment SFR Password for 10 equipment
Commitment
SFR Safety offer price	1 €/month for the first two months then 3 €/month	1 €/month the first month then 5 €/month	1 €/month the first month then 5 €/month or 50 €/year instead of € 60/year

Norton: the antivirus offered by Bouygues Telecom

Norton is a paid antivirus offered at a lower cost by the operator Bouygues Telecom. Thus, Bouygues subscribers can benefit from this antivirus at reduced prices with their internet or mobile offer.

NORTON antivirus can protect up to 5 aircraft ::

• fraudulent sites or applications,
• hacking personal or banking data,
• spams,
• Pirated downloads,
• flight thanks to its geolocation function.

Norton is available as an option with BBOX offers and Bouygues packages for 5 €/month without commitment. To subscribe:

1. In your customer area, click on See the options,
2. choose Options that I have, Then select Safety option,
3. click on Install Or on Receive a link (if you want to install the Bouygues antivirus later on another equipment),
4. Create a Norton account with your email address and password,
5. Finally, download the application on the Apple Store or to the Google Store according to the brand of your smartphone.

Antivirus being without obligation, you can cancel it at any time. If you want to terminate the Norton antivirus, go to the section My offer and my options, then in Norton Safety Pack.

You want to find the Bouygues package you need ?

Orange Antivirus Safety: Orange antivirus

Orange also offers a specific antivirus for its Android, Windows or Mac subscribers, at 5 €/month without commitment.

This antivirus prevents:

• Viruses of all kinds,
• phishing,
• Spy software,
• Unwanted calls and SMS,
• fraudulent sites,
• hacking of bank or personal data,
• theft and deletion of data.

If you are interested in theOrange safety antivirus, Follow the following steps:

1. Go to the Orange download platform and click on Install,
2. Launch the application then click on Accept and continue,
3. Enter your personal information and your confidential code,
4. Launch the update and analysis of your smartphone.

Operators antivirus: comparison table

The table below compares the antivirus of the 3 Internet access providers.

SFR Security	Norton Bouygues	Orange safety antivirus
Antivirus features	– Virus protection – Secure Internet connection – Protection of banking data and personal data – Anti -theft function with location of your smartphone – Data backup and recovery – SFR Password: recording your passwords	– Safe web to secure your Facebook account – Scam Insight to avoid hacking your data – Anti-phishing function – Identity Safe to memorize your passwords – Spam blocking function – Protection of your Internet downloads – Location of your smartphone in the event of loss or flight	– Analysis and protection of your applications and downloads against viruses – Blocking calls or unwanted SMS – Secure Internet connection – Protection of your banking and personal data – Location of your smartphone remotely even in silent mode – Remote stealth photo
Number of protected devices	Up to 5 aircraft	Up to 5 aircraft	Up to 5 aircraft
With what offers ?	– SFR box offers – SFR Mobile Packages	– Bbox Internet offers – Mobile Sensation Bouygues packages – B & YOU mobile packages	– Orange Internet offers – Orange mobile packages – Open Orange offers
Antivirus price	1 €/month the first month then 5 €/month	5 €/month	5 €/month
How to take advantage of it ?	09 87 67 96 18	09 87 67 18 00	On the Orange website

How to download an Android antivirus application ?

To download a Android smartphone antivirus application And thus protect your mobile phone, follow the following steps:

1. Go to your Play Store.
2. Enter the name of the application you want to download or simply enter “antivirus” in the search bar.
3. Once the application of your choice has been selected, click Install.
4. Wait until the appliances of the application.
5. Click directly on Open or go to the menu of your smartphone before selecting the application.

To choose What Android antivirus Install, you can help yourself with notes of each application, customer reviews and their presentation to find out which one best meets your expectations and your needs.

Updated on 03/13/2023

Emmanuelle is in charge of the creation of news and guides for Echosdunet. It deals with many telecoms and pages dedicated to operators.