What is the best Anti-Virus/Malware App for the Android

**Dragonstar1967** · 03-06-2011, 01:13 PM

With all the threats coming (real, perceived and fake) about viruses and Android, what do you consider to be the best anti-virus/malware app.

**evilbaby** · 03-06-2011, 03:53 PM

I've put zero thought into it but I would look into Lookout. I don't actually use the virus scanner that comes with it but the app is great in-case you loose or your phone is stolen. If its virus scanner is good enough I would just use that app. Provide two functions at once.

**tech4fun** · 03-06-2011, 07:30 PM

The only threats I seen are from apps that are not 100% legal, ask for too many permissions.

I make sure I am not at risk

Buy Apps from Market
Buy high rated Apps only
Question Apps asking for excessive permissions

I do think I am safe, I rather be careful which Apps I install than zap cpu cycles and battery life on an Anti Virus program that is really not required

**scatteredshellz** · 03-06-2011, 07:56 PM

Well, just to be on the safe side I downloaded and installed AVG. Works great and scans every file that i want to download. Doesn't hurt to be safe. Also got juicedefender.

**Dragonstar1967** · 03-06-2011, 10:13 PM

@tech4fun I act the same way but when I found out that 50 apps IN the market were removed by Google, it made me second guess the safety of the market. How many other apps are there that might be malware? Free apps usually have ads, thus it needs full internet access. That is all a piece of malware needs. High ratings can be bloated. I see many apps with high ratings and useless comments. Therefore I distrust that as well.
I remain vigilant as much as I can but think it is time for some other protection.

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**Jam08** · 03-06-2011, 10:28 PM

i agree with scatteredshellz.. as the saying goes.. prevention is better than cure.. unless you're vigilant enough, working out with your phone 24/7, so every activity on your phone is watched.. then better yet, install a security aps.. just make sure the security apps you'll install is tested and research for it further..

**Dragonstar1967** · 03-07-2011, 07:14 PM

Yeah, I guess that is what I'm doing now, is researching for a SAFE, best anti-virus/malware app. AVG has a good name from PC anti-virus but what of the phone. Lookout has always had good references from some Android websites but requires you to register your email with them. I never heard of juicedefender. But looking at the market place you see others, are they good or bad. Can you trust one that comes from China, supposedly the place that incorporated the attacks on Android phones.

Egads, choices and confusion

**Dragonstar1967** · 03-09-2011, 05:51 PM

Just came across this today for those that are in the same boat as me.
http://androidheadlines.com/2011/03/...th-having.html

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**Bugatti** · 03-16-2011, 07:34 PM

I use the 'Super Security Standard' app. It has a cloud scanner which is supposed to pick up Malware (never had any myself) it also has a task killer, and a missing device locator. It's free.

When you download a new app it scans it. Which is why I keep it around.

Free too!

**Qwavel** · 03-20-2011, 06:22 PM

I stick to Marketplace + occasional side-loaded app from trusted sources so no need for anti-virus.

The widely reported incident of a virus showing up in a bunch of marketplace apps is a rare occurance. I think that's the only time that has ever happened. And it doesn't even sound like it caused any damage.

If you want to get anti-virus because you want to be extra cautious, or because you install dubious software then that is fine, but I don't think people should feel that they need anti-virus. For 99% of users it is unnecessary.

In my opinion, the biggest 'security' issue (for all the mobile OS's) is that people pay no attention to the permissions being requested. Random apps request permission to read from your address book and no one seems to mind. Android is very good about telling you what personal data the app wants access to - if it wants too much then I don't install it.