Avast Antivirus & Security App Review

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  • Our Rating: 4 / 5

Updated 04-26-2023

Version 6.56.1
Google Play Downloads 363,247,564
Developer Avast Software
Screenshot From Our Avast Antivirus & Security Review

Overview

Avast Antivirus & Security for Android, with the app's ID com.avast.android.mobilesecurity, is a powerful tool designed to protect your Android device from malware, viruses, and other online threats. Its features are robust yet easy to use, providing comprehensive protection for your mobile device.

Features

Below are some of the key features of Avast Antivirus & Security for Android:

  • Antivirus and Malware scanner
  • Firewall for rooted devices
  • Web Shield to secure online activities
  • Anti-Theft feature to track lost or stolen devices
  • Privacy Permissions feature to understand apps' access to your data
  • App Locking feature for secure access to apps containing sensitive information

Pros

The main advantages of using Avast Antivirus & Security for Android include:

  • Easy to use interface and user-friendly setup
  • Fast malware detection and removal
  • Great online protection features including phishing detection
  • Multiple extra features such as app locking and anti-theft options

Cons

Despite its many advantages, there are some drawbacks to using Avast Antivirus & Security for Android:

  • Some features such as Anti-Theft are only available in the Pro version
  • Ads are present though they can be removed inexpensively through in-app purchases
  • Some users may find it too invasive and data-hungry, especially on entry-level devices

Detailed Explanation of Features, Pros, and Cons

Antivirus and Malware Scanner

Avast Antivirus & Security for Android uses a powerful antivirus and malware scanner to detect and remove any malicious software that may infect your device. This feature is fast and efficient in detecting known viruses and keeping your phone secure from potential threats.

Firewall (Rooted Devices)

Users with rooted Android devices can benefit from Avast's Firewall feature which allows extensive control over incoming and outgoing communications to maximize privacy when using the Internet. It operates in a way that prevents suspicious communication, interference with system apps or communication with unknown hosts.

Web Shield

The Web Shield feature protects you from online threats when browsing by warning the user of websites hosting malicious software or phishing attacks, keeping users safe by blocking harmful pages before they could even load in the browser. A great additional layer of protection when using your mobile browser.

Anti-Theft feature

This optional feature if included, enables users to remotely lock their lost or stolen device, making it unusable to anyone else. It also features the ability to track its location, take photographs of the new user and sound an alarm. These are key features unique to the Pro version, so budget-conscious consumers need to choose wisely when they get to unlock the premier version.

Privacy Permissions feature

The Privacy Permissions feature helps you understand which apps are accessing your data and how it is being used. This can protect you from potentially harmful apps and allow you to uninstall ones that may be violating your privacy. The feature works by providing you detailed reports on app permissions, such as camera access, contacts, or voice recording privileges.

App Locking feature

This feature allows users to lock specific apps on their device that they deem sensitive, such as email or banking apps. It provides an extra layer of security beyond the basic screen lock feature and can prevent anyone but you from accessing these apps. A great tool for Android users that want to access sensitive apps without leaving their phone vulnerable.

Comparison with Similar Apps

Compared to other mobile security applications, Avast Antivirus & Security for Android stands out for its ease of use and powerful scanning capabilities. It also offers more features than many similar applications for the same price point, including app locator and remote device locking. However, some users have noted that it can be data-hungry and not ideal for low spec devices. In comparison, McAfee Mobile Security (whose free version is quite popular) offers similar features but has fewer ads and is lighter on system resources, but may not have as user-friendly features. Other notable options include Malwarebytes and Norton, which offer some unique features of their own.

Tips for Using the App

When using the app, make sure to regularly scan your device for viruses and malware, especially when downloading new apps or files. Make use of the Web Shield when doing any browsing, and ensure that you toggle on a new connection’s firewall settings. If using it for the first time or you haven't used it in months, give the Privacy Permissions feature a check and monitor which apps are accessing your data, and remove any offenders. Consider purchasing the Pro-version as it unlocks some important extra functionalities that greatly improve your device's security.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Avast Antivirus & Security for Android provides comprehensive protection for your device against online threats. It is easy to use and offers numerous features. While it does have some drawbacks, it is a great option for anyone who wants to protect their Android device without having to spend too much. We highly recommend giving it a try.