Although Android is a newer operating system than the iOS, it has established itself as the most popular smartphone OS in the market today. With popularity however comes vulnerability and therefore higher security threats. The good news however, is that there are many security and anti-virus apps available to download and install to make your Android smartphone less vulnerable.

Top Security Apps for Android Phones

TrustGo Antivirus and Mobile Security

This Android security app checks and removes viruses, Trojans, spyware and malware on demand. The app is also capable of informing you which apps are safe to download. The app also informs web users when they are attempting to access unsafe websites. Other functionalities of this app that aren't security related include; informing you how much memory and power your device i.e. computer or Smartphone is using. This in turn helps to identify suspicious apps and programs.

Avast Mobile Security

This Android security app performs many functions. The main function is scanning viruses and apps and informing you if there are any security risks. The app also offers internet protection functions. For instance, the app will inform you if a certain site you are attempting to connect to has malware. The Avast Mobile Security app also has a firewall which is capable of filtering SMS messages and calls in the case where it is installed on a Smartphone. Other effective features for mobile device users include; a locking and tracking function in case mobile devices are stolen.

Lookout Security and Antivirus

The main function of this Android security app is blocking spy ware, malware and Trojans. This app runs scheduled scans i.e. daily or weekly on mobile devices to assess any security threats in downloaded apps. The app comes in a number of versions i.e. a free and premium version. You have to pay for the premium version because it offers additional protection and also allows special functionalities i.e. remote locking.

AVG Antivirus Free

As the name suggests, this app's main function is protecting mobile devices against viruses. The app scans files, apps, and virus settings. This helps to protect mobile devices against phishing attacks and malicious websites. The app will also eliminate tasks that slow down mobile devices. Additional functions include; tracking and location functions.

NQ Mobile Security

This Android security app blocks phishing sites, stops viruses, spyware, Trojans and malware. NQ mobile security app is capable of functioning like a privacy protection app i.e. monitoring private data in cases where unknown parties access it. This app can also helps you monitor how much device power each app is using. This is an important function because it helps you stop apps that slow down your device. This function can also help you suspicious apps functioning beyond their scope. The app also offers other functionalities apart from providing security. For instance, the app can track devices i.e. track a lost or misplaced phone. The app is also capable of locking stolen mobile devices and adding extra virus protection.