Your smartphone may have sensitive data like your photos, contacts, documents and other private stuff, so it is a good idea to install some security software on it. Malware and viruses have grown into a greater concern for a couple of years. Fortunately, the security apps have also improved to fight against these new threats. We have rounded up here five best Android antivirus and security apps, so you can choose a right defender for your smartphone.

1. Avast Antivirus & Security

Avast Antivirus and Security is a free Android app that offers an impressive range of tools. It scans the apps running on your mobile to give details on what they are doing. It also has Wi-Fi scanning options for improved security and speed, and a web shield that scans the URLs to resist the Android malware. The Android antivirus and security app also offers a call blocker to blacklist the problem numbers. There is an app locker to PIN protect apps including your gallery, messenger, and other private apps. Sadly, the app locking feature is limited to two apps until you subscribe the Pro version, which also removes ads.

For rooted phone, there is a firewall that allows controlling network traffic, and blocking Wi-Fi or the network for specific apps. It does not only give you improved security and speed but also saves your battery life. Download Avast Antivirus and Security

2. Sophos Free Antivirus and Security

There are hundreds of Android security apps, but you will hardly find one that scores a 100 percent detection rate for malware in real-time and is absolutely FREE.

Boasting a 100 percent detection rate for Malware, Sophos Free Antivirus and Security offers robust scanning covering storage media, existing apps, and installations. The package also includes loss and theft protection, password protection for apps, web filtering, spam blocking, security and privacy advice, and much more.

To be brief, Sophos is one of the best Android antivirus and security apps in term of processing, networking and battery life. And the best thing is that it is absolutely free with a wide list of fully accessible features without any advertising. Download Sophos

3. AVL

If you are looking only for malware protection, and not the anti-theft tools, identity protection or other surplus features that come in many security apps, then AVL is a right choice for you.

AVL scored a 99.8 percent detection rate for Android malware in the latest tests rising to 100 percent in last few weeks. Overall, the performance of this software is good having a no undue impact on phone speed and battery life. It is designed to be efficient and fast and can scan various file formats except for APK. There is also a Pro version available if you want to unlock more features and tools. Download AVL

4. Avira Antivirus Security

The next antivirus and security app on our list is Avira Antivirus Security. With a high detection rate for real-time Android malware, the free version of Avira is the best Android antivirus to keep your smartphone safe. This app allows you to scan existing apps, and automatically scans new apps and updates.

The anti-theft tools help you find your device remotely, lock it, and trigger an alarm. The identity protection tool can report you whether your email account or the email contacts have been leaked or compromised. It also offers a range of blacklisting options so you can block problem numbers or spam.

Though the basic version covers enough fundamental features for most users, there is also a premium version with anti-phishing, better support, and more regular updates. Download Avira

5. Trend Micro Mobile Security & Antivirus

Trend Micro is another best Android antivirus and security app with a high detection rate of malware and no false positives. It does not have an undue impact on battery life, performance, and memory.

The free version of the app covers you for malware detection having some extra tools for improving your smartphone’s performance. There is “Just-a-Phone” feature that kills all apps unnecessarily working in the background boosting your phone battery life.

There is a 7 day free trial of the premium version which includes anti-theft tools, app locking, malware blocking and cleaning, and much more. You can subscribe the premium version in just $36 per year. Download Trend Micro Mobile Security & Antivirus