Antivirus for Android

[malarky_hk]

Any suggestions for a good antivirus program for an Android based phone?

Currently using the free version of the AVG program. Not sure if that is sufficient protection. I don't mind paying for a good program.

[yjfang]

FireEye. One of the best in the business.

[melons]

iPhone :)

[malarky_hk]

Is the lack of a response an indication that a lot of people aren't too concerned about the security of their smart phones?

[Blubaru]

Originally Posted by malarky_hk

Is the lack of a response an indication that a lot of people aren't too concerned about the security of their smart phones?

It's not really a huge problem "yet". Maybe in a few years as the operating systems become more robust and advanced.

Believe it or not, viruses have been circulating on cellphones since the late 90s and early 00s. They were mostly Symbian based and circulated on Nokia phones via bluetooth.

Bluesnarfing is still a big issue and probably the preferred method of cracking into phones, and that's where I'd focus my attention if you're looking to increase your security. Simply turn off wireless or Bluetooth when you don't need to be using it.

Preventative security in general is probably where I'd focus my attention. Anti-virus programs by their nature are reactive and are used in response to a current threat or an existing one. Much like PCs, don't go to shady sites or download unknown programs and you'll probably be fine.

As far as getting a virus from a web page, beyond getting cookies and the like, I haven't heard of too many internet generated viruses for Android or iPhone. They're complex systems, but not really that complex, and the attack surface is reduced considerably because of that.


If it makes you feel better, Google has a not-so-secret kill switch built into the OS that can remove any program remotely once the program has been deemed a threat by their people. It will remove the program and anything it's probably done to you're device.


Edit: I just realized you're in China. I'd be more worried about government generated malware or government friendly backdoors built into the devices.

Have you ever considered taking a look at a Blackphone? If I was in China, I'd definitely consider something like that. Of course, I'm a security guy, so maybe I'm just over-cautions.

https://blackphone.ch/phone/

[malarky_hk]

Blubaru, thanks for the info. I'm not worried about big brother over my shoulder but more concered about spy/malware stealing my identity and/or banking info and siphoning funds.

[Colin M]

Avast and free