The most effective antivirus software will safeguard you from all kinds of cyber threats, such as malware, ransomware and phishing. It will also protect you from spyware, data spying, and phishing. It must also be compatible with your operating system, work on Windows, Mac and Android devices (and ideally Linux too) and have a low impact on performance. It should also have additional security features, like a secure browser for the web and shredders for files.
You should also make sure that your software is regularly updated with its malware database as new threats are continually being developed to bypass older detection methods. Many of the best antivirus programs use a number of different detection techniques to improve their reliability using heuristics, behavior monitoring, sandboxing, and artificial intelligence.
Free antivirus programs generally offer basic protection that is adequate for most users, but if you want more advanced features like SMS and call blocking, cloud storage management and scanning of devices, choose paid-for alternatives. These programs will have an option for subscription pricing and should be backed by good laboratory tests and user evaluations.
AVG Antivirus is a top-rated mobile antivirus software. It got 100 percent in the AV Comparatives June 2023 tests. It comes with a smart scanner, Wi-Fi warnings for networks and junk file cleanup. It also prevents unwanted calls and texts, allows you to find your phone lost with a GPS tracker, and features an anti-theft feature that will lock your device after three incorrect password attempts. The paid version adds extra protection features such as a built-in VPN as well as RAM optimization and automatic updates to the app.