Why Is Security Software so Important for Cell Phones?
Most of us use our cell phones to browse the internet every day. In fact, browsing the internet with cell phones is becoming more popular than using a laptop or computer.
The truth is, though, cell phones are exposed to exactly the same risks as desktop devices. But cell phones don’t carry the same levels of built-in protection as other devices, which is why antivirus security software is so essential.
How Does Antivirus Software on Mobile Phones Work?
Antivirus software comes in two varieties, passive or active. Passive versions leave it up to you to decide when you want to check your computer for new threats. Active versions are constantly running in the background and will alert you when they find something suspicious.
The best antivirus software runs on your computer 24/7 and is connected to the company's live database of virus signatures. New viruses and exploits are being developed all the time, so the best antiviruses are constantly being updated with an ever-expanding catalog of viruses to look out for.
Should your antivirus find a potential virus in your system it will give you three options. The first and the best course of action in most cases is to delete the threat. Some viruses are built in a way that makes it impossible to delete them, in that case, the second-best option is to quarantine it. The last option is to have your antivirus ignore a file you know to be safe.
Free or Paid Security App for Smartphones?
Although nothing is ever 100% protected, most iPhones are usually better off against malware in comparison to Android devices. It’s important to keep your iPhone regularly updated to ensure there are no vulnerabilities in the software you’re running.
Android phones are much more vulnerable and we’d always advise paying for cell antivirus software in both cases. While there are lots of free antivirus apps out there, they only offer protection against the basics. If you’ve spent hundreds of dollars on a brand new cell phone, isn’t spending an extra couple of dollars a month worth it to ensure that your phone and your personal information are safe from the ever-watchful eyes of online cybercriminals? Paid-for antivirus software often offers a lot more benefits and features than free antivirus software.
Additional Features To Consider
Protecting your Phone and computer is something you can expect from every antivirus software on the market, so here are some other features to consider.
Compatibility - You will need antivirus software that is compatible with your system. Many companies make versions for Windows, Mac OS, and Linux.
Internet Security - Computers and Smartphones connected to the internet will need an antivirus with a built-in firewall to stop viruses from ever taking hold.
App Lock - To protect certain apps with a password.
Remote Lock - If your device is ever compromised, this allows you to completely shut it down remotely.
Anti-Phishing Protection - Warns you against potentially dangerous websites that could attack your phone.
Call and SMS Blocking - Block calls and text messages from potentially dangerous numbers.
Safe Browsing Modes - Checks every website you visit to make sure they’ve got valid HTTPS protection.
How We Can Help You Decide?
Whether you’re an Android phone user or prefer iOS, there are lots of security software providers out there and it’s important you choose the right one. Our antivirus software experts regularly run checks across a variety of different phones to help you make a well-informed decision.