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Android includes built-in security through Google Play Protect, but there are situations where an additional security app adds value. This guide explains what built-in protection covers, when a security app makes sense, and what to look for if you choose one.
Do you need antivirus on Android?
For most users who only install apps from Google Play and keep their phone updated, Android's built-in protection is sufficient. Google Play Protect scans all installed apps continuously and blocks most threats. However, additional protection may be worthwhile if you:
- Regularly connect to public Wi-Fi without a VPN
- Need to sideload apps for work reasons
- Manage sensitive business data on your device
- Have family members (especially children) who install apps independently
What built-in protection covers
Before adding a third-party app, understand what Android already does:
- Google Play Protect: scans all apps before and after installation for malicious behaviour
- Safe Browsing in Chrome: warns you before you visit known phishing and malware sites
- Permission manager: controls what each app can access
- Monthly security patches (for supported devices): fix known vulnerabilities
- Google account protection: monitors for unusual sign-in activity
What a security app adds
A reputable third-party security app can add:
- Real-time web protection in browsers other than Chrome
- Wi-Fi network scanning to detect potentially hostile hotspots
- VPN functionality (often included with paid tiers)
- Identity monitoring to alert you if your email appears in data breaches
- More detailed app behaviour analysis beyond what Play Protect provides
What to look for in a security app
If you decide to install a security app, choose one from an established vendor with a published privacy policy:
- Look for independent test results from AV-TEST or AV-Comparatives: these organisations run standardised Android malware tests
- Avoid unknown vendors offering "free antivirus" with excessive permission requests: these are often the very thing you are trying to avoid
- Bitdefender, Kaspersky (note: government advisory on Russian origin), Norton, and Malwarebytes all score well in independent tests
- Be wary of apps that claim to "boost performance" or "clean junk": these are usually unnecessary and sometimes harmful
- A paid app from a reputable vendor is preferable to a free app from an unknown one
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