With all the news of mobile malware, especially on Android, being on the rise, we thought we should do a little post listing some of the most critically acclaimed and popular security apps for Android devices. Check them out after the jump!
Before you start trying out these recommended options, please remember that you and only you, with the power of common sense, can provide the best security for your device and its data. You should follow these two common sense tips to ensure maximum security:
- Do not install apps from unofficial, untrusted sources without confirming their authenticity. Use stores such as Market and Amazon Appstore to get your apps. Download APK files only from sources which you trust (such as reputed blogs).
- Carefully read permissions required by each app before installing to see if it requires fishy stuff. About to install a screen capture app? Well, if it wants permissions to access location data, stay away from it.
ESET Mobile Security
ESET is a respected name in the computer security industry. Their NOD32 antivirus for Windows is considered to be the most efficient security solution thanks to its near 100% detection, prevention and curing rate. This efficiency is carried over to their Android antimalware solution Mobile Security which offers real-time protection, along with anti-theft features such as registering only trusted SIM cards. Highly recommended. Free for now.
Lookout Security & Antivirus
Lookout Mobile Security’s Security & Antivirus app was one of the first security solutions for Google’s Android OS and, as such, enjoys immense popularity. Aside from real-time protection, it offers a bunch of very enticing backup & restore (contacts, photos and call logs), anti-theft (remote lock & wipe) and safe browsing features which make, in our opinion, the most powerful security solution for Android devices.
It is available for a 30 day trial. After that, you have to pay $29.99/year to enjoy premium features such as advanced backup/restore and Privacy Advisor (lets you know which apps require which permissions).
Kaspersky Mobile Security
Last but not least in our recommended list of security apps is Kaspersky Mobile Security. This is a paid-option-only security solution which offers some pretty robust features: real-time antimalware scanning, detection and protection, anti-theft features like Remotely Lock or Wipe, displaying of prearranged message, location detection over GSM, GPS or Wi-Fi and even the ability to lock the device if it is detected that the SIM card is replaced by thief. There are also functions like Call & SMS filter which lets you block calls/texts from certain numbers. $9.99.
Be sure to check out our Android Apps gallery to explore more apps for your Android device.
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