A continual debate has been raging regarding the necessity of antivirus and anti-malware apps since the advent of the first smartphones, considering that over and above millions of viruses written specifically to target android devices there are currently over 4500 kinds of malware that specifically target android apps and devices.
Out of 31 tested apps, 18 scored a 100% detection rate in a series of tests conducted during March 2014 by AV-Test clearly illustrating the level of improvement in device and data protection offered by the current crop of security apps. 360 Security, developed by one of the major players in China, Qihu exploded into the market and scored close to flawless detection rate of 99.9% in the September 2013 AV-Test, recording an all-time high for any tested security app and followed it up in March 2014 so 100% detection rate. The latest version offers loads of extras including a power saver, junk file cleaner, memory booster, privacy encryption tool, app manager, as well as anti-theft and location tools of the option of remotely wiping and your phone.
Avast! Mobile Security offers a truly free application for android platforms, featuring a comprehensive range of defensive tools and that would include antivirus protection, monitoring & scanning of app details and their purpose, a URL scanning Web Shield for malware protection. This ESET Mobile Antivirus & Security, represents a relative newcomer to top end protection earning its place with a 100% protection and detection rate in the last report from AV-Test sporting an intuitive interface. A fully free app with real-time detection and scanning capabilities against malware and potentially unwanted programs that could be pilfering data in the background, or make illegal premium rate calls or send illegal text.
Avira Antivirus Security is another major player in the freeware stakes managing to score a 100% detection rate with no false positives; it also is one of those welcome apps with light and tiny footprint with a minimal impact on device performance. The app sports minimalist design and sleek appearance fitting in well on the android platform. AVL, many users demand malware and anti-viral protection in the most barebones manner possible, this app is for those without the need for anti-theft tools, identity protection, but definitely requires the strongest malware protection without any superfluous or extraneous features that fill up the majority of security apps then AVL will be the perfect partner for your device protection.