Best Antivirus Apps For Mobile Phones in 2025
Mobile malware is growing fast. Stay safe with top-rated antivirus apps for your smartphone.
1
Product of the year
Multi-Device Antivirus with Built-in VPN & Ad-Block.
- Real-Time Malware Protection
- Multi-Platform & Multi-Device
- Built-in VPN for Privacy
- Ad Blocking & WebShield Features
- Personal Data Breach Monitoring
Complete Security Suite with AI Scam Protection & Backup.
- Provides multi-layered, real-time defense
- VPN, Password Manager, Smart Firewall & Cloud Backup
- Single license can cover multiple devices
- Dark Web Monitoring and Identity Theft Protection
- 100% a 60-day money-back guarantee
Multi-Layered Defense with Minimal Impact & Secure VPN.
- Consistently rated among the best for malware detection, with an “unbeatable multi-layered protection”.
- Total Security subscription protects up to 5 devices across Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS simultaneously.
- Its Photon technology and cloud scanning ensure it won’t slow down your computer.
- Secure VPN, a Password Manager, Web Protection, a SafePay secure browser, Parental Control and a Rescue Environment.
- Offers a Free Antivirus for Windows that provides basic real-time anti-malware protection.
Multi-Layered Malware Defense with Optional Privacy Features
- All plans provide real-time antivirus to defend against viruses, spyware, ransomware, and other malware.
- McAfee+ plans introduce robust identity theft safeguards.
- All paid plans include Secure VPN access for private browsing.
- includes a secure Password Manager in its plans.
- For families, McAfee provides parental control features (available in family plans like McAfee+ Family tiers).
- desktop application provides a Protection Score metric – a simple gauge of how secure you are.
Free Core Protection with Upgradeable Firewall & Tune-Up Tools.
- Free version provides basic security, including real-time scanning for malware, spyware, and some ransomware protection.
- Provides Firewall, AI-powered phishing protection, Sensitive Data Shield, Webcam Protection, Anti-Spam filter.
- Ultimate package includes AVG TuneUp – a PC optimization tool to clean junk, fix registry issues, and improve performance.
- Its premium plans support Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS devices.
- AVG AntiVirus Free is a permanent free solution for one device.
- AVG Ultimate also bundles AVG Secure VPN and AVG AntiTrack (to prevent online tracking and browser fingerprinting).
Trusted Free Antivirus with Advanced Web & Ransomware Shield.
- Provides malware protection (viruses, spyware, etc.) and intelligent Behavior Shield to spot suspicious app activity.
- Premium Security unlocks advanced features: Real-time ransomware shield, Webcam Protection, enhanced Firewall, SecureLine VPN, Cleanup Premium for PC optimization.
- With over 400 million users worldwide, Avast has a proven track record and a large community.
- Avast is truly cross-platform, available on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS.
- Avast Free Antivirus is one of the most feature-packed free antiviruses available, with no time limit.
All-in-One Digital Security with Identity Protection
- Aura stands out by covering identity, financial, and device protection in one service.
- Can protect multiple devices across platforms (Windows, Mac, and Android for antivirus; plus iOS for other features).
- Aura uses smart, cloud-based technologies to block threats in real time.
- Beyond core security, Aura includes a password manager, and it actively scans the Dark Web for your leaked personal data.
- Provides Data Breach Monitoring, which alerts you if your email or personal data appear in known leaks.
- Aura’s subscriptions come with a 24/7 support line and an industry-leading 60-day money-back guarantee.
Lightweight Browser Protection for Safe Browsing
- Guardio’s protection is delivered via a browser extension that shields you from threats as you browse.
- A unique feature of Guardio is that it actively scans and blocks harmful browser extensions from being installed.
- includes basic identity protection features such as data breach monitoring for your email and phone number.
- Because Guardio focuses on the browser, it does not perform system-wide virus scan.
Multi-Layered Malware Defense with Optional Privacy Features
- Consistently rated among the top anti-malware engines. Searches viruses, Trojans, spyware, and especially zero-day threats.
- The program is designed to be “install and forget”, with an intuitive interface and preset protection layers.
- Free version of Malwarebytes provides a powerful on-demand scanner for cleaning infections, but no real-time protection.
- Supports Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and even Chromebooks.
Cloud Antivirus with VPN & Parental Controls.
- Panda’s antivirus uses cloud processing for threat detection, resulting in minimal impact on system performance.
- The Panda Dome range works on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, protecting all your devices with one subscription.
- Panda Dome Free provides basic antivirus protection at no cost.
- Higher Panda plans includes Parental Controls, Password Manager and Data Shield for file encryption, PC Cleanup.
- Panda guards your privacy with solutions like Wi-Fi Protection and Dark Web Scanner.
Do Phones Need Antivirus in 2025? Short Answer: Yes – Especially Android
Let’s be honest — our phones are no longer just phones. They’re cameras, wallets, social hubs, work tools, and personal vaults… all in one tiny device we carry 24/7. And yet, many people still think:
“Do I really need antivirus on my phone?”
Here’s the truth in 2025: Yes, you do — especially if you’re on Android. While iPhones have stronger built-in protections, both platforms face real threats today, from phishing links and fake apps to spyware and identity theft.
We use phones for everything. That also makes them prime targets.
What Can Go Wrong on Mobile?
You don’t need to download sketchy apps to get into trouble. Here are common mobile threats:
• Phishing texts & emails: You tap a legit-looking message from your “bank” or delivery service — boom, your password’s gone.
• Malicious apps: Some apps (even from official stores) hide spyware, adware, or subscription traps.
• Public Wi-Fi snooping: Without protection, hackers can intercept your data on unsecured networks.
• Stalkerware or spyware: Yes, there are apps designed to secretly monitor your location, texts, or microphone.
• Data leaks: A leaked password can unlock your email, banking, or social media… unless you’re protected.
These threats are real — and mobile malware is evolving fast. Android is especially at risk due to its open app ecosystem. But even iPhones aren’t bulletproof: phishing, scam sites, and sketchy links work across platforms.
What Antivirus Apps Can Do for Your Phone
Modern mobile security apps go way beyond “virus scanning.” They help you:
✅ Block dangerous websites & links in real time
✅ Scan apps for hidden trackers or trojans
✅ Detect spyware or stalkerware trying to monitor your phone
✅ Check if your email or passwords are leaked online
✅ Warn about unsafe Wi-Fi or unsecured connections
✅ Wipe or locate your device if it’s ever lost or stolen
✅ Use a secure VPN for safe browsing on public networks
Many of these features run quietly in the background — no battery drain, no annoying pop-ups. Just quiet protection while you scroll, stream, or tap away.
What to Look For in a Mobile Antivirus
• Android users: Choose an app with real-time protection, strong malware detection, and phishing defense. Bonus points if it includes app lock, theft protection, or Wi-Fi security.
• iPhone users: Look for tools that focus on anti-phishing, privacy alerts, breach detection, and secure browsing — since Apple blocks system-wide scanning, the best apps focus on smarter prevention.
• Battery-friendly design: You shouldn’t notice it’s running — until it saves your day.
• Clear privacy policies: Don’t let a “free” app sell your data. Stick with trusted brands
Final Thought
Your phone holds everything — and it deserves real protection. Whether you’re on Android or iOS, a trustworthy antivirus can guard your privacy, block nasty surprises, and help you stay one step ahead of mobile threats.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is antivirus really necessary for Android?
Yes. Android is more open, which makes it powerful — but also easier to exploit. Malware often hides in fake apps, modified downloads, or shady links. A good antivirus gives you real-time protection against all that.
What about iPhones — aren’t they safe?
Safer, but not immune. iOS limits malware by design, but you’re still vulnerable to phishing, fake sites, and data leaks. Antivirus apps for iPhone help by warning you about risky links, leaked credentials, and unsafe networks.
Will it slow down my phone or drain my battery?
Not at all if you choose a well-designed app. Most run quietly and efficiently — just like a background safety net.
How Can You Tell If Your Phone Has a Virus?
Warning signs of a malware infection include rapidly draining battery, unfamiliar apps appearing, constant pop-up ads, frequent app crashes, and unusually high data usage. If you notice any of these issues, it’s a good idea to run a full antivirus scan on your device.