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Trex500

Trex500

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Hi

I have searched for this on net but thought I would ask on here too.
Are there many virus on android,
Which is the best app to protect it, I have installed avast but that seems to slow down everything quite a bit. Would like to do internet banking on it,but wonder what the risks are compared to windows.

Thanks in advance for any reply's.
 
I've yet to hear of/be affected by any virus on android and I've been on that platform for quite some time.
I don't use anti virus just common sense when it comes to app downloading/Web navigating.
 
Am using AVG on a Nexus 7 - only issue is on start up as it extends the normal cheking process on startup.

Got it on my Galaxy S2 as well.

My partner has Norton, which is paid for, and AFAIK does the same as AVG which is free.

Not a fan of AVAST as have spent time sorting friend's seriously slowed PCs running it.

S
 
Thanks for replys
 
Don't use any virus software on my phone or tablet, there is no need imho.

Most android malware is in China and specific to them from what I read.

Provided you only pull stuff from the play store I really don't think you have anything to worry about.
 
You really don't need any anti-virus software on your phone, it will just slow it down and drain your battery. Just make sure you stick to apps on the play store that have a good reputation and you'll be fine.
 
Simple rules,
1. Stick to the official Play Store or Amazon App store
2. Check reviews before installing
3. Review permissions before installing. eg. why does a simple puzzle game need full network access?
4. Be very careful side-loading apps unless you are certain of their origin.
5. If you pirate apps then expect what's coming to you.

AV programs really aren't necessary if you apply a bit of common sense.

I've been am Android user since Donut (1.6) and never had a virus problem. Definitely a few badly written apps, but nothing malicious so far.
 
Again thanks for replys..
 
stupar said:
I've yet to hear of/be affected by any virus on android and I've been on that platform for quite some time.
I don't use anti virus just common sense when it comes to app downloading/Web navigating.
Click to expand...

Absolutely, the best antivirus IS common sense.

Read the app ratings, read the reviews, only ever download via trusted sources and always check the permissions.....

For example a torch app does NOT need access to your accounts, your GPS information, your contacts or your messages, but it does need access to your camera. I use this example because I came across such an app, which despite being VERY popular I refused to install because of the excessive permissions, for what effectively did nothing but switch on an LED.


Sources for bad apps are the same as for PC software, it's generally stuff that kids go for, because kids just click on everything mindlessly, regardless of the potential consequences, all in a bid to get to that game as fast as possible.
Then of course there are pirated copies of games and popular apps, which can be laced with nasties.
Also mind for popup advertising that draws the user in with promises of iPads and expensive holiday discounts, remember the "too good to be true" rule.
If you feel something is too easy or your being suckered into something, just get the hell out of there.
 
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