Is an Antivirus necessary on an Android Smartphone?

[Dark Lord of Tech]

Is an Antivirus necessary on an Android Smartphone?

Comments are encouraged and welcomed.

Blackbird.

 

[NightAntilli]

I use one just in case. Viruses have been increasing. Generally, if you only use signed/licensed apps, you should be fine without one. But if you're installing apps from the internet for whatever reason, it's best to have one.

 

[Dark Lord of Tech]

Do you think a FREE version is adequate or should a paid version be used?

 

[NightAntilli]

A free version is good enough. I use CM Security.

https/play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.cleanmaster.security&hl=en

 

[Dark Lord of Tech]

Does it slow the operation of the phone at all ?

 

[bumblebee2na]

I have never had a virus problem in the past years with android devices, you should be okay without one.

 

[Boyling460]

I strongly recommend you get one. I have clean master it works as an antivirus, memory boost, cpu cooling and junk file cleaner.

 

[EasyLover]

Not necessarily. I've been a Android user for quite some time but never have faced any security/safety related issues in mobiles. That is the case when I know what I'm doing with my phone is correct and it is in single hand use.

 

[Agera One]

Wooooo. SR-71 Blackbird asked a question !!!!!

 

[Cespenar]

If any electronic data recording device connects to the internet it most definitely needs an anti-virus.

 

[sportsmc3]

I don't have one, but I am sure it is possible to get a virus on a smartphone, though I never have.

 

[Dark Lord of Tech]

It's a discussion thread , just getting opinions on the topic.

 

[HEXiT]

depends what you do with your phone. if your banking or running a business then yeah i would say its essential as you can never be to safe when its your livleyhood on the line.
if your just playing games, browsing, emails and iptv.media then no. just use a good 1 on your home pc and every time you think you need to scan your phone do it with that.
if you dont have a good av bitdefender handles android no problem from what i gather.

 

[canadianvice]

It's similar to saying if one is necessary on a Mac. Technically there are viruses out there for android, but many are a challenge to find.
I would opt on the side of caution and pick one up, but don't break the bank to do so.

Generally speaking, reviews have found AV performance on android to be lacking - it's really something you would weigh. You've got your two options, you can go underwater without your anti-seabear underwear on, since it is unlikely you will ever meet such a creature, but if the possibility exists you may wish to do so anyway so as to be sure.

 

[NightAntilli]

Does it slow the operation of the phone at all ?

Haven't noticed any slowdowns on my HTC One (M7) with that one.

 

[Dark Lord of Tech]

I'm using Bitfdefender right now , but Norton mobile seemed lighter and more responsive.

 

[Charlie A]

Never in my time using an android phone (and I've been on some obscure places on the web, not saying too much) and I have to say that would be overkill. Out of all the common spyware, malware and Trojans out there the VAST majority are written for Windows OS, and hence do nothing on Android OS. Only a handful of threats exist and its more effort than its worth.

 

[BlakePE]

I have used avira antivir on my laptops/PC's for 15 years so I thought I'd give it a go on my phone because I trust it to give me the same protection as it does on my computer. So far I am quote impressed with it and it has remote locking/wiping functions too. Very impressed!

 

[Nevigo]

If you stick to Google play or the App store when you download apps you should be safe.If you use other places than these,use Bitdefender free or AVG free.

 

[Dark Lord of Tech]

I currently use Kaspersky on my device , very smooth , great protection.