#TechBytes: 5 free antivirus apps to secure your Android smartphone
What's the story
Despite packing enhanced features, Android phones still remain susceptible to security threats. An attacker can distribute malicious apps/trojans capable of compromising device security, stealing personal or financial information. Notably, an antivirus is always the first line of defense. There are several antivirus apps on Play Store, but these are the best ones you can get for free.
App 1
Avira Antivirus Security
Avira is an Android app that offers you all major protection features, including real-time protection from malicious applications and adware, without charging a single penny. Yes, you'll see some ads, but there's no compromise on security. You can conduct a full device scan, external SD card scans, and even protect your personal data (photos, emails) from theft. Plus, there are additional anti-theft, recovery tools.
App 2
Security Master
Security Master, previously known as CM Security, integrates security features of an antivirus with a number of additional functionality-focused tools. From the security point-of-view, the app offers real-time protection from malware, adware, trojans, and other hacking tools. It scans an app after it gets installed and even includes features like VPN and app lock capabilities. Notably, it also takes intruder selfie.
App 3
Bitdefender Antivirus
Being a popular name in the antivirus arena, Bitdefender offers a free app for Android users. Though this one is not as advanced as Security Master or even Avira for that matter, you get all basic security features, including real-time protection against malicious apps and manual scan functions. Apps are automatically scanned after installation and everything is clean and easy to use.
App 4
TrustGo Antivirus & Mobile Security
TrustGo Antivirus is another clutter-free app that does basic stuff like scanning the phone and its apps for malware/adware or other forms of viruses. The app includes cleaner and booster features for improving device performance and even offers a privacy advisor for enhancing the security of your phone and online services. And again, there are anti-theft features for locating or wiping the phone, remotely.
App 5
CM Security Lite
Finally, it is the lighter version of Security Master, CM Security Lite. This is pretty similar to BitDefender security, as there are only basic features for scanning internal and external storage for viruses, malware and adware programs. The app is fairly light and can scan apps upon installation; but apart from that, there are no special offerings. Plus, it is completely ad-free.