As we’ve explained so far, Android has a number of protections to deal with threats, like malware, adware, and other viruses. So, do you need an antivirus on Android? The answer for most people is no.
If you have a device that comes with Google services, if you only use Google Play to download apps, and you’re reasonably careful while dealing with unknown links and suspicious emails, Android’s built-in protections are going to be good enough for you. You don’t need to download any third-party antivirus application.
Although antivirus products on Android have come a long way, even the antivirus products from renowned companies will still consume 3 to 8 percent of your battery as well as other system resources. So there’s no point installing something that’s going to be of no use to you and also hogs vital aspects of your phone.
However, if one or more of the following things apply to you, an anti-virus app may be of some use.
- Your Android device doesn’t come with Google services, like one of the newer Huawei phones or you’ve installed an aftermarket firmware and have chosen to use it without Google services.
- You install APKs from untrustworthy sources.
- You visit websites of disrepute.
- You aren’t able to discern between a suspicious link and a trustworthy link.
- You’re using a really old Android device with no Google Play Protect.
