Antivirus for Android

In the Android (Droid) Marketplace, you will come across dozens of internet security options for the Droid. Some of the apps are free, some of them cost money and all of them are from companies from around the world. This massive selection can be confusing, but the real question is: As an Android user, do you really need antivirus software in the first place?

The Antivirus Debate

Most people know that computers need protection from spyware, Trojans and other types of malware, but are smartphones susceptible to the same attacks? Smartphones like Androids are connected to the internet, which is the number one source for most attacks. They are also used to open email and questionable websites, which are all common points of attack for hackers and scammers. So, you would think that an Android smartphone would need to be protected just like a personal computer.

The problem with this logic is that most viruses are programmed to attack Windows or Mac operating systems. Android phones use a completely different operating system. This means that, essentially, a virus designed for a Windows operating system wouldn't know how to harm an Android phone, even if it was deep in the CPU.

The biggest threats to Android smartphones are infected apps. Infected apps can steal information from phones or disable them completely. Currently, there are only a few dozen infected apps known that target Droid operating systems.

Newer Droid operating systems are often unaffected by infected apps because they are so changed from the original system that malicious apps don't know how to infiltrated the newer version. If you have a phone with an older system, you can avoid infection by not downloading apps from untested providers.

What Should I Know About Security Apps?

Even with this diminutive threat, some people may feel more secure using security apps for the Droid. Before downloading any type of security software from the Android Marketplace, though, understand that most apps are made by independent publishers. This means that the app could be just as malicious as the viruses you are trying to protect your phone from. Always purchase your app from a reputable company that you have researched using sites like this one.

The Downsides to Android Protection

While virus protection may be an important Android add-on, it does have some major drawbacks. Most importantly, virus-protection software operates constantly, running down your battery. Energy hemorrhaging can hamper even casual smartphone users.
Slow processing speed is another drawback to internet security software for the Android. If you like to play games or cruise the internet while using your phone, you may find your favorite tasks hindered considerably after a security software download.

Unless you download questionable material from the internet on a regular basis using your Android phone, there is really no need to install antivirus apps. They can slow down your system, drain your phone's battery and may even have hidden viruses. The best way to defend your phone from infection is to avoid downloading dubious apps, opening suspicious emails and visiting unverified websites.

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