Do you use a virus scanner? Which one? Why?

[andersab]

Been wondering if having a virus scanner running is worth it?

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[FD2]

Have been on android for the last 18 months. Have side loaded apps. Have yet to encounter a virus.

Personally don't use one.

 

[moosc]

There is no need for one.

 

[andersab]

Great, that is what a bunch of websites say but I wanted to hear other users' opinions

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[MowDownJoe]

We're telling you there's no need for a virus scanner... what more do you want?

 

[GenericMessage]

No need for them, or task killers.


Both just bloatware

 

[dfine1966]

What most people don't understand is that putting a malware/virus programs on Android is more to prevent virus' transferring to a computer with Windows on it. Just like if you had a Mac networking with a Windows computer, you would need a Virus program on a Mac to prevent transferring a virus to Windows.

Do you need a virus program? That question is still being debated. Most experts argue about if it is really needed for Android or not. This again is up to you to decide. Having it on your device, if you choose the right AV program, won't slow down your device. I use Lookout, which is free, and doesn't slow anything on the phone down, and does more than just being a malware protector. It has a locator and file backup to servers.

 

[California_iPad]

No need for them, or task killers.

I see a use of task killers, more memory and makes my phone faster!

 

[rjdangerous]

I see a use of task killers, more memory and makes my phone faster!

I like being able to close apps im not using also.

 

[jdbower]

I somewhat disagree. First of all, people tend to be a bit constrained in their use of the term "virus" - for most a virus also includes malware which exists for every platform under the sun. Unfortunately many virus scanners are themselves malware or simply out of date. Here are two simple tips for any platform (including iPhone's walled garden where they nicely trap the bad guys inside as well):

1. Only download apps that have a lot of downloads and a good rating or from developers that are trusted.
2. When the app installs and it says it wants to access certain parts of your phone, PAY ATTENTION! I downloaded a well-known app with decent reviews but it wanted access to my contacts and other parts of the phone that it shouldn't need access to. Delete.

Obviously if you've rooted your phone you've also got bigger things to look out for. Once you've got root access, apps may be able to get root access. Generally this is something they need to ask for, but if you don't know what you're doing with root it's a dangerous thing to play with.

 

[We Have Signal]

Make a poll or I wont comment. ;P

 

[GenericMessage]

I see a use of task killers, more memory and makes my phone faster!

I like being able to close apps im not using also.

Something your phone does all by itself already.


But anyway, this isn't a task killer thread, this is a virus/anti-virus tool thread.

 

[rpfarrah]

FWIW, I use Lookout. It checks out the downloaded apps (says it does, anyway ) and also has a website link that you can use to control your phone should it be lost or stolen.

 

[Nebilim]

Lookout. it's fast, free and doesnt slow down the phone. ive also used the data backup on their servers. it works great