Do You Really Need Antivirus for Your Smartphone?

Do You Really Need Antivirus for Your Smartphone?

Smartphones are everywhere nowadays – that’s a certain text. We use them for everything from social media to news, texting, designing, developing, and, yes, even calling people. The ubiquity of cell phones is just as much a boon as it is a pain.

Cybercriminals routinely scour the Internet in search of easy access points to penetrate our security VPN test checker. They look for weaknesses wherever they can find them. We know this.

But mobile security is a multilayered arena, peppered with various safety protocols. For example, various built-in features of Android and iOS operating systems provide a modicum of protection against veiled threats.

The iOS operating system, Apple’s proprietary closed-system network, is an excellent example. However, it’s not ironclad. There is this pervasive myth that computers, including PC and Mac devices, are more secure than smartphones.

Myth Buster #1 

It’s certainly rare that you will find malicious code on your smartphone – granted, it happens occasionally, but not through the typical channels. It is far more common to encounter viruses, malware, adware, Trojans, and the like on personal computers.

FYI, the first computers were built in the early 1980s, but the first cell phones only came about after people had easy access to the Internet. The real reason smartphones are safer is because apps are sandboxed.

Myth Buster #2

VPN antivirus software is incredibly useful for PCs, Macs, and mobile devices. Once again, folks mistakenly believe that virtual private networks are better suited to in-home computing devices such as MacBooks, iMacs, personal computers, and the like.

There are powerful security solutions, including VPN antivirus software – ideally suited to mobile protection. They offer scam protection – a big threat in the mobile arena.

Beyond the basics, VPN protection software for mobile devices offers 24/7 security, including identity monitoring, tips for safeguarding your online presence, and secure VPN (allowing you to change your IP address, mask your browsing history, and protect against prying eyes) access around the clock.

Virtual private networks are the go-to security options for a growing number of smartphone users worldwide. Users are encouraged to download and install a secure VPN antivirus app – research your options and pick wisely.

There is an important point to make about general VPN services for smartphones. Not every VPN is worth its salt. This is because – like anything – VPN companies vary from one provider to the next. Some of them share your information; others don’t. It’s important to choose wisely. Any online security consultant worth listening to will unreservedly tell you this fact.

Then, there are third-party cookies and related tracking tools. Your chosen VPN system should be watertight at all times.

Myth Buster #3 

Did you know that apps readily available at the App Store and the Google Play Store are not necessarily safe and secure? For the most part, they are safe but so many apps are being added daily that some bad apples sneak through and can corrupt your smart home devices, too.

This is especially true at the Google Play Store, which is far less stringent in the App Store. But it’s not only these two destinations to consider – the third-party apps present a challenge. Sometimes, there’s nothing technically wrong with apps, except for privacy, security, and cookie-related issues – but these are a big concern.

So, now you know that apps from the Google Play Store and the App Store are generally safe, with caveats. Never download apps from third-party applications because Google or Apple does not vet them.

So, Do You Need Antivirus Software for Your Smartphone?

There is no wrong or right answer; it’s a question of safety and security preferences. For anyone concerned about identity theft, hacking, cybercrime, or misappropriation of personal data – yes, you need antivirus software for your smartphone.

It only takes one breach to compromise your safety – why take the chance? The level of sophistication used by criminals today is off the charts. You’re probably fine if you use common sense, download secure apps, implement maximum safety protocols, and never fall victim to scam artists.

But there is always that off chance that something goes awry. That’s when you’ll wish you installed an antivirus app on your smartphone. The choice is yours….