In today’s digital age, your Android phone carries sensitive personal data, banking apps, family photos, and access to work email. Every day, cybercriminals craft new malware, ransomware, and phishing schemes aimed at Android devices. You need robust security to keep threats at bay. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover the Best Antivirus & Malware Scanners for Android in 2025, how to choose the right one, and practical tips to stay secure. Every recommendation is backed by up-to-date testing and expert analysis. We’ve also included a detailed comparison table for at-a-glance clarity.

Why Android Antivirus Matters in 2025
Android’s market share exceeds 70% of global smartphone users. That popularity makes it a prime target for hackers who constantly evolve their techniques. If you’re like most people, your phone stores everything from shopping accounts to sensitive documents. One slip—downloading a malicious app or tapping a phishing link—and you risk:
- Identity theft
- Unauthorized banking transactions
- Data breaches affecting personal and professional life
- Unwanted subscriptions or hidden spyware
Android’s ecosystem is more open than iOS, allowing apps from third-party sources. While this expands choice, it also creates potential entry points for malware. In January 2025, AV-TEST evaluated 15 top Android security products. They found that leading apps like Bitdefender Mobile Security and Norton Mobile Security achieved 100% threat detection rates with minimal performance impact (av-test.org).
Without an antivirus solution, you rely solely on Google Play Protect. While Play Protect does scan apps before installation, its November 2024 test results show only a 91.7% protection rate—below many dedicated antiviruses (av-test.org). In contrast, top third-party apps block 100% of known threats while delivering additional features like VPNs, app advisors, and anti-theft tools.
By equipping your phone with a trusted antivirus, you can:
- Detect and quarantine malware before it causes harm
- Block phishing websites and suspicious links
- Scan apps, files, and downloads in real-time
- Monitor Wi-Fi networks and warn of unsafe connections
- Encrypt data and secure browsing
For these reasons, investing in a quality Android antivirus in 2025 is not optional—it’s essential.
Key Features to Look for in an Android Security App
When selecting the best antivirus for Android 2025, pay close attention to the following must-have capabilities. These features address your core concerns around performance, privacy, and comprehensive protection:
- Real-Time Malware Scanning
- Detects viruses, Trojans, spyware, and adware instantly
- Uses cloud-based threat intelligence for up-to-date protection (av-test.org)
- App Advisor & Privacy Analysis
- Monitors newly installed apps for suspicious permissions
- Alerts you when apps access sensitive data like location, camera, or contacts (techadvisor.com, cybernews.com)
- Web Protection & Phishing Blocker
- Scans URLs in real-time to prevent phishing attacks
- Blocks fraudulent sites when you browse or click links
- Stops drive-by downloads from compromised websites (cybernews.com)
- Anti-Theft & Device Finder
- Locates, locks, or wipes your phone if lost or stolen
- Triggers alarms, takes stealth snapshots, or locks SIM cards remotely
- Ensures data stays out of wrong hands (cybernews.com, techadvisor.com)
- Performance Impact & Usability
- Runs lightweight scans to preserve battery and CPU
- Minimizes false positives that can disrupt daily use (av-test.org, av-test.org)
- Additional Tools
- VPN or secure browsing module for public Wi-Fi
- Identity theft protection and dark web monitoring for your accounts
- Call and SMS spam blocker
- File shredder or encryption module (cybernews.com, techadvisor.com)
Every feature directly addresses a pain point: from stealthy malware that hides in apps to phishing links disguised as missed calls. By ensuring your chosen app checks all these boxes, you gain peace of mind without compromising performance.
Top Antivirus & Malware Scanners for Android in 2025
Below is a curated list of the leading Android antivirus tools for 2025. Each entry includes key highlights, pricing, and a summary of features. All ratings and results are drawn from the latest AV-TEST findings (January 2025) and expert reviews (av-test.org, techadvisor.com, cybernews.com).
1. Bitdefender Mobile Security
- Protection Score: 100% (av-test.org)
- Performance Impact: Minimal (av-test.org)
- Price: Starts at $14.99/year (1 device)
- Key Features:
- Real-time malware scanner
- Phishing protection
- VPN (limited data with subscription)
- Account Privacy: Monitors email leaks
- Anti-theft: Lock, wipe, locate
- Why It Stands Out:
- Consistently top AV-TEST performer
- User-friendly interface for novices
- Frequent threat database updates
- Official Website: Bitdefender Mobile Security
2. Norton Mobile Security
- Protection Score: 100% (techadvisor.com)
- Performance Impact: Minimal (techadvisor.com)
- Price: $29.99/year (1 device)
- Key Features:
- App Advisor warns before installing harmful apps
- Web protection blocks phishing URLs
- Wi-Fi Security: Scans new networks for vulnerabilities
- Dark Web Monitoring
- Call and SMS blocking
- Why It Stands Out:
- Comprehensive paid suite with zero free version
- App Advisor helps avoid malicious installs
- Strong anti-phishing engine
- Official Website: Norton Mobile Security
3. Avast Antivirus & Security
- Protection Score: 100% (av-test.org)
- Performance Impact: 100% usability (av-test.org)
- Price: Free basic; Premium starts at $19.99/year
- Key Features:
- In-depth malware scanning
- Junk Cleaner and RAM Booster
- VPN (5GB/month on free plan)
- Photo Vault to hide private images
- Call blocker and anti-theft features
- Why It Stands Out:
- Robust free tier for budget-conscious users
- Additional cleanup tools to optimize performance
- Transparent privacy policies
- Official Website: Avast Mobile Security
4. AVG Antivirus Free
- Protection Score: 100% (av-test.org)
- Performance Impact: 100% usability (av-test.org)
- Price: Free basic; Premium $11.99/year
- Key Features:
- Real-time malware and spyware detection
- Photo Vault and App Lock
- Wi-Fi scanner for unsafe networks
- Device locking and location tracking
- Why It Stands Out:
- Simple UI for first-time users
- Frequent free updates
- Low impact on battery life
- Official Website: AVG Antivirus
5. Avira Security Antivirus
- Protection Score: 99.9% (November 2024) (cybernews.com)
- Performance Impact: Slightly higher resource use than top rivals (cybernews.com)
- Price: Starts at $26.99/year (1 device)
- Key Features:
- Web Protection: Blocks malicious sites and phishing
- Identity Safeguard: Monitors leaked credentials
- Anti-theft tools: Remote lock, wipe, locate
- System Optimizer to free RAM
- VPN included with Prime plan
- Why It Stands Out:
- Excellent bonus tools like VPN and mic/webcam protection
- Near-perfect detection in independent labs
- Official Website: Avira Mobile Security
6. Kaspersky Premium for Android
- Protection Score: 100% (av-test.org)
- Performance Impact: 100% usability (av-test.org)
- Price: $14.95/year (1 device)
- Key Features:
- Real-time scanning of apps, files, and web pages
- Anti-phishing and anti-theft modules
- Call and text filter for spam numbers
- Secure Browsing to block malicious links
- Why It Stands Out:
- Industry leader in malware detection
- Lightweight footprint on older Android models
- Official Website: Kaspersky Mobile Antivirus
7. ESET Mobile Security & Antivirus
- Protection Score: 100% (av-test.org)
- Performance Impact: Minimal
- Price: $19.99/year (1 device)
- Key Features:
- Real-time scanning, anti-phishing
- Call filter to block nuisance calls
- Anti-theft: Remote lock, SIM card tracking
- Security Audit: Checks for outdated OS, insecure settings
- Why It Stands Out:
- Clean, ad-free experience with no unnecessary bloat
- Strong background monitoring with negligible battery drain (av-test.org)
- Official Website: ESET Mobile Security
8. AhnLab V3 Mobile Security
- Protection Score: 100% (av-test.org)
- Performance Impact: Low on older devices (techradar.com)
- Price: Free
- Key Features:
- Privacy Advisor: Scans installed apps for risky permissions
- Performance Booster for slower phones
- Hidden Gallery for private photos
- Basic anti-theft features
- Why It Stands Out:
- Exceptional on legacy Android releases (Android 6.0+)
- No-cost premium-grade protection for unlimited devices
- Official Website: AhnLab V3 Mobile Security
9. Sophos Intercept X for Mobile
- Protection Score: 100% (av-test.org)
- Performance Impact: Minimal
- Price: Free
- Key Features:
- Real-time protection, anti-phishing
- App Protection: Locks sensitive apps behind passcode
- Secure Wi-Fi: Alerts on vulnerable networks
- QR Code Scanner to prevent malicious links
- Why It Stands Out:
- Entirely free with enterprise-grade features
- No ads or upsells; funded by Sophos’s enterprise business
- Official Website: Sophos Mobile Security
10. Google Play Protect (Built-In)
- Protection Score: 91.7% (av-test.org, av-test.org)
- Performance Impact: Seamless; native to Android OS
- Price: Free (built into all devices with Google Play)
- Key Features:
- Automatic scanning of apps from Play Store
- Warns when an app exhibits suspicious behavior
- Frequent updates via Play Services
- Why It Stands Out:
- Zero cost, zero setup—always running in the background
- Instant updates as Google patches Android vulnerabilities (av-test.org)
- Official Info: Google Play Protect
Comparison Table: Android Antivirus Solutions
Antivirus App |
Price (1 Device/Year) |
Protection Score (Jan 2025) |
Real-Time Scan |
Phishing Blocker |
Anti-Theft |
VPN Included |
Notable Cons |
Bitdefender Mobile Security |
$14.99 |
100% (av-test.org) |
✔️ |
✔️ |
✔️ |
Limited |
VPN data capped |
Norton Mobile Security |
$29.99 |
100% (techadvisor.com) |
✔️ |
✔️ |
✔️ |
No |
No free version |
Avast Antivirus |
Free / $19.99 |
100% (av-test.org) |
✔️ |
✔️ |
✔️ |
5GB/month free |
Ads in free version |
AVG Antivirus Free |
Free / $11.99 |
100% (av-test.org) |
✔️ |
✔️ |
✔️ |
No |
Limited advanced tools |
Avira Security Antivirus |
$26.99 |
99.9% (cybernews.com) |
✔️ |
✔️ |
✔️ |
Yes (Prime) |
Resource usage |
Kaspersky Premium |
$14.95 |
100% (av-test.org) |
✔️ |
✔️ |
✔️ |
No |
Premium required for full suite |
ESET Mobile Security |
$19.99 |
100% (av-test.org) |
✔️ |
✔️ |
✔️ |
No |
No VPN |
AhnLab V3 Mobile Security |
Free |
100% (av-test.org) |
✔️ |
Basic |
✔️ |
No |
Lacks advanced anti-theft |
Sophos Intercept X |
Free |
100% (av-test.org) |
✔️ |
✔️ |
Basic |
No |
UI could be complex |
Google Play Protect |
Free |
91.7% (av-test.org) |
✔️ |
Basic |
No |
No |
Limited features |
Table Notes:
- Protection Score data from AV-TEST (January 2025) (av-test.org, av-test.org).
- All price points subject to change; check official websites for latest deals.
Free vs Paid Android Antivirus Solutions
Free Antivirus Apps
- Pros
- Zero cost, immediate protection
- Basic malware scanning and removal
- Often include anti-theft and call blocker features
- Cons
- Ads and upsell prompts for premium features
- Limited real-time protection (some scans are manual only)
- Basic phishing defense; no VPN or identity monitoring (techradar.com)
Top Free Choices in 2025:
- AhnLab V3 Mobile Security: Full protection with low system impact (techradar.com)
- Sophos Intercept X: Enterprise-grade tools, no ads, QR code scanner (av-test.org)
- Google Play Protect: Always running; essential but incomplete (av-test.org)
Paid Antivirus Apps
- Pros
- 100% real-time threat detection (AV-TEST certified)
- Advanced features: VPN, dark web monitoring, identity theft alerts
- Priority customer support and faster updates
- Cons
- Annual or monthly subscription fees
- Some features (like VPN) may have usage caps without paying extra
- Top Paid Picks:
- Bitdefender Mobile Security: Best overall for balanced cost and performance (av-test.org, cybernews.com)
- Kaspersky Premium: Strong anti-phishing and lightweight design (av-test.org)
- Norton Mobile Security: Elite app advisor and Wi-Fi scanner (techadvisor.com)
When budget allows, a paid solution dramatically raises your security baseline. It pays for itself if it prevents a data breach or stolen banking credentials.
How to Choose the Right Antivirus for Your Android
Selecting the ideal Android security app can feel overwhelming. Use this checklist to align your unique needs with the features that matter most:
- Device Age & Performance Constraints
- Older phones (Android 6.0–9.0) benefit from lighter apps like AhnLab V3 Mobile Security (techradar.com).
- Flagship phones (Android 12+) can handle feature-rich suites like Bitdefender or Avast without lag.
- Budget & Willingness to Pay
- If you prefer free, no-cost protection, choose Sophos Intercept X or AhnLab.
- For advanced privacy tools (VPN, dark web monitoring), factor in $15–$30/year.
- Primary Use Case
- Casual users who download apps only from Play Store may be comfortable with Google Play Protect plus a free scanner.
- Power users who sideload APKs or frequently connect to public Wi-Fi should consider paid solutions with robust web protection.
- Desired Bonus Features
- VPN Access: Avira, Norton, or Avast
- Identity Theft Alerts: Bitdefender, Avira
- App Advisor/Privacy Auditor: Norton, Bitdefender, Sophos
- Anti-Theft & Remote Wipe: Most paid tiers include advanced anti-theft (cybernews.com, techadvisor.com)
- Ease of Use & User Interface
- Look for clean, intuitive dashboards—Avast and Bitdefender excel here.
- Avoid apps overloaded with menus if you prefer a set-and-forget approach.
- Customer Support & Reputation
- International brands like Kaspersky and Norton have 24/7 support lines.
- Free apps often rely on community forums and email support, which may be slower.
By matching your priorities—cost, device specs, and feature set—you’ll narrow down the field quickly. Once you’ve chosen, proceed to install, configure, and schedule regular scans.
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing and Configuring Android Antivirus
Even the best antivirus is useless if misconfigured. Follow these actionable steps to set up your chosen solution and maximize security:
- Download from Official Source
- Always download from the Google Play Store (search for the exact app name).
- Verify publisher: e.g., “Bitdefender Mobile Security & Antivirus” by Bitdefender SRL.
- Avoid sideloading from third-party websites.

- Grant Necessary Permissions
- Accept only required permissions: “Storage” for scanning files, “Location” for anti-theft, “Accessibility” for phishing protection.
- Decline optional permissions (e.g., microphone) unless explicitly needed.
- Perform Initial Full Scan
- After installation, open the app and run a Full Device Scan.
- Quarantine or remove any detected threats.
- This baseline scan ensures a clean slate.
- Enable Real-Time Protection
- In settings, toggle on “Real-Time Scanning” or “On-Access Protection.”
- Adjust sensitivity if the app flags too many legitimate files as false positives.
- Activate Web & Email Protection
- Enable “Web Protection” to block malicious URLs across browsers.
- If offered, turn on “Email Scanning” to filter phishing attempts.
- Configure Anti-Theft Features
- Set up a secure PIN or password for remote lock and wipe.
- Link a secondary email or phone number for recovery.
- Test locate/lock functionality by logging into the vendor’s web portal.
- Schedule Regular Scans
- Configure weekly or bi-weekly automatic scans.
- If you sideload apps often, consider daily quick scans.
- Set Up Additional Tools
- VPN: If included, connect whenever you use public Wi-Fi.
- App Lock: Lock sensitive apps (banking, email) behind a PIN.
- Dark Web Monitoring: Enter your email addresses to get breach alerts.
- Enable Push Notifications
- Allow security alerts so you receive immediate warning of threats.
- Mute non-critical notifications (e.g., “You’re secure”) to avoid fatigue.
With these steps, your antivirus app becomes an active guardian, scanning in the background and preventing threats before they harm your device or data.
Common Android Security Threats and How Antivirus Helps
Android’s openness and popularity make it a target for various malware types. Understanding these threats and how antivirus apps mitigate them helps you appreciate each feature’s importance.
- Trojan Horses & Dropper Malware
- Malicious apps disguised as legitimate ones.
- Once installed, they “drop” additional malware modules like spyware or ransomware.
- Antivirus Defense:
- Signature-based detection flags known Trojans.
- Behavioral analysis spotlights suspicious app actions (e.g., sending SMS to premium numbers). (av-test.org, thesun.co.uk)
- Adware & Aggressive Pop-Ups
- Floods your screen with invasive ads, can install further malware.
- Slows down device performance and drains battery.
- Antivirus Defense:
- Adware scanners remove junkware.
- Privacy advisors sandbox ad modules. (techradar.com)
- Ransomware
- Encrypts your files or locks your screen; demands payment for release.
- Often spreads via malicious email attachments or sideloaded apps.
- Antivirus Defense:
- Real-time scanning blocks ransomware payloads before execution.
- Behavior monitoring recognizes rapid file encryption and quarantines. (av-test.org, av-test.org)
- Phishing & Malicious Links
- Fake websites mimic legitimate login pages (banks, email providers).
- Attackers steal credentials when you “log in.”
- Antivirus Defense:
- Web protection checks URLs against a constantly updated blacklist.
- Warnings pop up before you enter sensitive data. (cybernews.com, techadvisor.com)
- Spyware & Stealer Malware
- Runs in background, collects keystrokes, screenshots, or contacts.
- Sends data to remote servers without your knowledge.
- Antivirus Defense:
- Cryptojacking
- Malicious apps use your device’s CPU/GPU to mine cryptocurrency.
- Leads to overheating and rapid battery drain.
- Antivirus Defense:
- Identifies high-CPU usage processes linked to known cryptominers.
- Provides “Battery Saver” alerts when background mining is detected. (av-test.org, av-test.org)
- Networking Attacks & Rogue Wi-Fi
- Public Wi-Fi hotspots intercept your communications, launching man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks.
- Malicious routers can spoof legitimate networks.
- Antivirus Defense:
- Wi-Fi scanner flags insecure networks (e.g., no encryption or weak WPA2).
- VPN feature encrypts data if you connect to untrusted Wi-Fi. (techadvisor.com, cybernews.com)
By understanding these threats and matching them to antivirus features, you’ll better appreciate why each element—like phishing blockers or behavioral analysis—is critical.
Maintaining Your Android Security: Best Practices
Antivirus alone cannot guarantee 100% safety. Pair your chosen app with these everyday habits to further reduce risk:
- Keep Android OS Updated
- Install monthly security patches from Google or your device manufacturer.
- New vulnerabilities appear constantly; updates close known exploits.
- Go to Settings > Security > Security Update regularly.
- Download Apps Only from Google Play Store
- Avoid sideloading .apk files from unverified sources.
- Stick to well-known developers with positive reviews and active support.
- Review App Permissions
- Don’t grant camera, mic, or contact access unless app functionality absolutely requires it.
- In Settings > Apps, revoke unnecessary permissions for existing apps.
- Use Strong, Unique Passwords & 2FA
- Employ a reputable password manager (e.g., Bitwarden, LastPass).
- Enable 2-Factor Authentication on all accounts that support it.
- Beware of Phishing SMS & Emails
- Never click links from unknown or suspicious senders.
- Double-check URLs by hovering (or long-pressing) to view actual domain.
- Backup Your Data Regularly
- Use encrypted cloud backups (Google Drive, OneDrive) or local encrypted backups.
- If ransomware strikes, you can restore without paying.
- Enable Device Encryption
- Most modern Android phones come encrypted by default.
- Confirm by going to Settings > Security > Encryption & Credentials.
- Lock Your Screen with Strong Biometric or PIN
- Set up fingerprint or face unlock for convenience and security.
- If biometrics fail, require a 6-digit PIN or strong alphanumeric password.
- Monitor Your Accounts
- Use identity monitoring tools (built into some antivirus apps) or services like Have I Been Pwned.
- Change passwords immediately if your email appears in a data breach.
Combining these habits with a robust antivirus app creates multiple layers of defense, making it exponentially harder for attackers to succeed.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Android antivirus really necessary in 2025?
Yes. Even though Google Play Protect scans apps, it doesn’t catch 100% of threats. AV-TEST’s January 2025 results show Play Protect at 91.7% detection, while dedicated apps like Bitdefender, Norton, and Kaspersky achieve 100%. Relying solely on Play Protect leaves gaps you might regret if you download a malicious adware-infested app (av-test.org, av-test.org).
2. How much does a good Android antivirus cost?
Paid plans range from $14.95 to $29.99 per year for single-device coverage. Family plans (covering multiple devices) typically cost $50–$70/year. Free options like AhnLab V3 and Sophos Intercept X offer strong protection without subscription fees (techradar.com, av-test.org).
3. Does antivirus slow down my Android phone?
Top-tier apps are optimized for minimal impact. In January 2025 tests, Bitdefender, Avast, and Norton scored 100% for usability—meaning they didn’t noticeably slow performance (av-test.org, techadvisor.com). If you have an older device (Android 6.0–9.0), choose a lightweight app like AhnLab V3 to avoid lag (techradar.com).
4. Can I rely on a free antivirus app?
Free apps can block common malware and provide basic anti-theft features, but they often lack advanced tools like VPN, dark web monitoring, and in-depth privacy audit. If you don’t sideload apps or frequently connect to public Wi-Fi, a free solution like Sophos Intercept X may suffice (av-test.org, cybernews.com).
5. Does antivirus drain battery quickly?
Modern antivirus suites run scans during idle times and optimize background processes. AV-TEST’s usability scores reflect low battery drain. However, real-time protection (especially web scanning) may consume extra power compared to no antivirus. To preserve battery, configure scans for Wi-Fi only and schedule them while charging (av-test.org, av-test.org).
6. Are built-in features like Google Play Protect enough?
Google Play Protect offers a baseline defense, scanning apps during installation and monthly updates. But it lacks advanced phishing protection, VPN, and deep behavior monitoring. For comprehensive security, pair Play Protect with a third-party antivirus that offers real-time scanning and extra tools.
7. What if my phone is already infected?
Download a trusted antivirus (e.g., Bitdefender or Avast) and run a full scan in Safe Mode:
- Press and hold the power button.
- Tap and hold “Power off” until “Reboot to Safe Mode” appears.
- In Safe Mode, open your antivirus and run a deep scan.
- Quarantine or remove all detected threats.
After rebooting normally, ensure your OS is updated and change all critical account passwords.
8. Can antivirus protect against spyware and stalkerware?
Yes. Leading antivirus apps detect known spyware variants by analyzing app behavior (unexpected network connections, keystroke logging). Tools like Kaspersky and Bitdefender also provide privacy audits that flag apps requesting suspicious permissions (e.g., SMS, contacts) (av-test.org, cybernews.com).
9. Does antivirus protect me from phishing texts (SMiShing)?
Some apps include SMS/Call Blocking modules that detect phishing content in texts and block malicious links. For example, Norton’s App Advisor warns of suspicious SMS links before you click (techadvisor.com). Enable SMS scanning to intercept fraudulent messages.
10. How often should I update my antivirus app?
Keep auto-update enabled in Google Play Store. Major antivirus vendors release daily signature updates. Check the app’s settings to confirm “Auto-update definitions” is turned on.
Conclusion
In 2025, Android faces more sophisticated threats than ever: cryptojackers that hijack your CPU, deeply hidden spyware, and phishing schemes that impersonate your favorite apps. A robust antivirus app is your first line of defense against these evolving risks. Our top picks—Bitdefender, Norton, Avast, and others—achieve perfect detection ratings while preserving performance, according to AV-TEST’s January 2025 analysis (av-test.org, techadvisor.com, av-test.org).
By choosing an antivirus that matches your budget and priorities, following the installation steps, and combining these tools with the everyday security practices outlined, you’ll dramatically reduce your risk of falling victim to malware or data theft. Don’t wait until something bad happens—take action today.
Stay vigilant, keep your software up to date, and let a trusted antivirus guard your Android. Your peace of mind (and bank account) depend on it.
DISCLAIMER: Prices and performance scores are accurate as of June 6, 2025, based on cited sources. Always verify current pricing and test results from official vendor websites or independent labs before making a purchase decision.
References
- AV-TEST. “Test Antivirus Software for Android – January 2025.” (av-test.org)
- Tech Advisor. “Best Android Antivirus Apps for 2025.” (techadvisor.com)
- AV-TEST. “Test Antivirus Software for Android – November 2024.” (av-test.org)
- CyberNews. “The Best Android Antivirus Apps for 2025.” (cybernews.com)
- TechRadar. “Best Free Antivirus in 2025: Recommended by the Experts.” (techradar.com)
- The Sun. “Millions of Android Owners Urged to DELETE Two Dangerous Apps…” (thesun.co.uk)