Did you know that every 4 in 10 smartphones are vulnerable to cyberattacks? As technology continues to evolve so does the expertise of those who mean us harm.
Thankfully, with the rise of mobile security apps for Android and iPhones, you can be proactive and safeguard your personal data from hackers and scammers.
Stay with us as we give you a lowdown on the best mobile security apps for 2024 and tell you why device security should be the first thing on your mind.
What are Mobile Security Apps?
Mobile security apps are software applications specially designed to run on smartphone devices like Android and Apple phones and offer an impenetrable layer of security from threats such as spam calls, identity theft, malware, and illegal tracking.
Smartphone users can install these free or subscription-based mobile security applications to protect their private and confidential data while calling, texting, or using the internet on their devices.
The use of such mobile security apps is highly recommended if you access the internet over public Wi-Fi hotspots or use a shared network, both of which are prone to regular security breaches.
Importance of Mobile Security Apps
Statistics show that 80 percent of all attacks on mobile devices take place through downloadable applications. While Android is the most targeted operating system, authorized providers, like Google Play Store and Apple App Store, daily block 24,000 malicious apps to prevent users from downloading malware.
Installing a verified mobile security app from verified published who installed Trusted Code Signing Certificate can be essential for the following reasons.
Protection Against Data Breaches
Cyberattackers can target your Android or Apple phones to steal data and use the information to cause significant harm.
Reports show that from 2022 to 2023, there was a significant rise in ransomware, with the USA being the top targeted country. People with malicious intent block users from accessing their personal information until a ransom is paid. The thought of a stranger having access to all your private and confidential information can be nerve-wracking.
However, installing a mobile security app reduces the chances of data breaches, and you get instant notifications/ alerts if your passwords are compromised.
Safety from Finacial Loss
Every year, netizens lose hundreds of millions of dollars from cyberattacks, particularly in scams like phishing, fraud, and identity thefts.
Many of us install and activate banking and credit transfer applications like Venmo on our cell phones. In the case of phone hacks, attackers can access all our information, including the financial information stored on these applications. They can use their skills to steal money from us, and by the time we realize it, our bank accounts are emptied.
The use of mobile security apps can prevent us from such financial losses.
Enhanced Peace of Mind
With a mobile security app installed, you can travel in peace. We often rely on public Wi-Fi access points while traveling without realizing that we are making our devices more susceptible to attacks.
Open access networks or shared networks have weak security. Therefore, it is easier for hackers to bypass the encryptions and scoop personal and professional information. But with a mobile security app, you can shield yourself from such harm.
Boost in Productivity
Cyberattacks and their after-effects are known to affect people’s productivity, especially if professional information, such as intellectual property, is stolen. Victims may have to spend weeks or months recovering the lost data and fighting lawsuits to secure financial compensation.
All of it can be avoided if mobile security apps are installed as a proactive measure.
Greater Social Interactivity
Federal Trade Commission revealed that around 70,000 Americans fall victim to romance scams. Scammers pose as potential lovers and extort thousands of dollars from the victims. They spend hours tracking their target’s online activities, assessing their likes and dislikes, and eventually posing as the man/ woman of their dreams to bait them.
The best mobile security apps deactivate these trackers and mask your online activity, allowing you to interact with friends and family on social media apps without worrying about lurking predators.
Best Mobile Security Apps for Android
Here are some of the 3 best mobile security apps for Android phones.
AT&T ActiveArmor
All the customers of AT&T Internet plans and Wireless phone plans are eligible for free downloads of the AT&T ActiveArmor. The mobile security app offers 24/7 protection against spam calls, malware and phishing attempts, and breaches of privacy through advanced security features such as encryption, detection, web monitoring, shielding, and push notifications.
Bitdefender Mobile Security
It is a paid mobile security app for Android phones and safeguards you from linked-based mobile scams, online threats, and email hacks. It also allows you to locate, lock, or wipe your phone if it is lost or stolen.
Norton 360 for Mobile
You can download the Norton 360 app on your Android phone and start its 7-day free trial to access features like Secure VPN and App Advisor. The mobile security app allows you to scan all the default and installed apps on your phone, giving you complete protection against malware. After the trial version, the cheapest plan costs $29.99 for a year.
Best Mobile Security Apps for iPhone
Android users may be the most affected by internet attacks, but iPhone users are not spared either. The following are the 3 best mobile security apps for iPhone users.
Avast Security & Privacy
With a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, Avast Security and Privacy for iOS 15 or higher is considered the best mobile security app for iPhone users. It is a free application with in-app purchases starting at $19.99 a year. You can count on Avast for safe browsing, call blocking, and safer online banking.
TotalAV
It is another free mobile security app for iPhone users with in-app purchases. Anyone with an iOS 12 or higher can download this app and enjoy real-time website blocking, VPN protection, anti-hacking alerts, and regular scans.
Malwarebytes
Malwarebytes has a 4.5-star rating on the App Store. The free mobile security application offers advanced features like ad-blocking, filtering, web security, and VPN for round-the-clock protection against cyberattacks.
Are Mobile Security Apps Worth It?
Even with subscription fees and in-app purchases, mobile security apps are worth it. Installing them can save you from emotional, financial, and physical distress, making your digital life smoother and safer.
