Antivirus software for Android can be divided into two categories: simple antivirus apps and security suites. The first Android Trojan was discovered in 2010, and since then, numerous antivirus programs have been designed to counter these threats. Basic antivirus apps scan newly downloaded apps for malicious code, while security suites offer additional features such as app killers and data backup.
The different types of antivirus software for Android can be divided into two general categories based primarily on complexity and feature sets. Simple antivirus applications form one of the main categories. This type of antivirus software for Android offers a no-nonsense solution to deal with malware, adware, and other malicious code that can be found on your operating system (OS). The other type of antivirus software for Android comes in the form of security suites. These apps include basic antivirus protection plus a variety of other related features, such as data backup, task killers, and even the option to locate a lost phone.
Android is an open source operating system introduced in 2007. The first malicious program designed to exploit the mobile operating system was discovered in 2010 and took the form of a trojan hidden in downloadable applications that appeared to be legitimate. Once installed, this first Android Trojan was able to send text messages without a phone owner realizing it. Numerous antivirus programs and security suites have been designed to counter these threats. The original trojan appeared in apps obtained from the Android market, although it is possible to be exposed to malware from other sources as well.
The first type of antivirus software for Android takes the form of single-use apps. These antivirus programs are designed to scan newly downloaded apps for malicious code, although some can also monitor software that has already been installed. If malicious code is detected, this type of antivirus software is usually able to warn the user, block the malware, and prevent it from accessing critical resources or private information. Another function that some basic antivirus apps have is the ability to monitor all data written to the Secure Digital (SD) card, which is another way to detect malicious activity.
In addition to standalone programs, other types of Android antivirus software include larger security suites. These apps are usually able to perform all the same tasks as a basic antivirus program, but add extra functionality. An app killer is a tool that can allow a user to manually disable any application that is behaving suspiciously or using too many system resources. Many of these suites also include some kind of data backup feature, which is capable of copying all contact information, pictures, videos, and other information from a phone to a remote server. If a Trojan ends up corrupting your data or your phone gets stolen, it’s simply a matter of restoring from backups.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
