Can I really use the free version?How to choose antivirus software for smartphones

If you normally use a computer, many people have installed "antivirus software" that can block suspicious websites and prevent password leakage.

Not only PCs but also smartphones have their own antivirus software. In this article, we will introduce antivirus software that can be used for free and security options provided by each communication carrier.

Do you need antivirus software on your smartphone? Antivirus is included by default in iPhone and Android OS

In the first place, many people may be wondering if smartphones need anti-virus measures.

This is because the "iOS" installed on the iPhone and the "Android OS" installed on the Android smartphone each have a built-in program to protect personal information.

[Reference] Apple / iPhone User Guide

[Reference] Android / Mobile safety

However, NortonLifeLock has announced that it is blocking an average of about 300 million cyberattacks per month worldwide (January-October 2021). In 2022, cyber attacks targeting virtual currencies and cyber crimes using artificial intelligence and machine learning are expected to increase.

This is not just a damage to a personal computer, but it can also happen to a smartphone that can connect to the Internet and access various websites. From the perspective of countermeasures, it can be said that using not only the antivirus program installed in each OS but also antivirus software separately is an effective means.

Some antivirus software for smartphones can be used for free for a limited time!

Some antivirus software that can be used on smartphones can be installed and operated for free. There are differences in the functions that can be used, so check the functions you want in advance.

Antivirus software for smartphones that can continue to use some functions for free [Kaspersky]

"Kaspersky" is a 30-day free trial version that provides "Kaspersky Security (Android OS only for smartphone version)" that can be used for anti-virus, anti-malware, and anti-hacking measures.

In addition, although some functions are limited, Kaspersky VPN Secure Connection, which encrypts communication when using Wi-Fi to protect personal information and communication content, and encrypts and stores IDs, passwords, credit card information, etc. You can continue to use Kaspersky Password Manager for free.

[Reference] Kaspersky 30-day free trial version / free version

Antivirus software for smartphones to prevent online fraud and malicious applications [Virus Buster Mobile]

Trend Micro's "Virus Buster Mobile" not only prevents online fraud and fraudulent applications, but also has functions such as checking the communication environment at the time of payment and protecting privacy (Android version only).

In addition, "parental control" functions such as restrictions on harmful sites and restrictions on the use of apps can be used on smartphones used by children. A 30-day free trial version is distributed, and it is antivirus software that families can use with confidence.

[Reference] OfficeScan Mobile

Antivirus software for iPhone and Android that can use many functions for free [Avast Free Antivirus]

"Avast Free Antivirus" is a free antivirus software that can detect many threats such as viruses, malware, spyware, ransomware, and phishing scams.

In addition, you can also use the "Cyber ​​Capture" function that automatically sends suspicious files to the cloud and tells you how to deal with them. It can be used not only on iPhone and Android smartphones, but also on Windows PCs and Mac series.

[Reference] Avast Free Antivirus

Each communication carrier is also providing anti-virus apps for smartphones

If you have a smartphone contract with four carriers, docomo, au, Softbank, and Rakuten Mobile, it is also recommended to use the antivirus application provided by each communication carrier by paying a monthly fee.

Anti-virus application for smartphones that can also take anti-virus measures and measures against nuisance calls and emails [docomo / Anshin Security]

DoCoMo's "Anshin Security" is an antivirus application that can be used for 220 yen / month. It can be used not only on iPhone and Android smartphones, but also on iPad and Android tablets.

Functions such as measures against nuisance calls / emails and detection of dangerous Wi-Fi are also available. If you apply for the first time, you can use it free of charge for 31 days.

[Reference] DoCoMo / Anshin Security

Antivirus application for smartphones that can be used with peace of mind "Virus Buster" at a bargain price [au / Virus Buster for au]

au provides "Virus Buster for au" for Android smartphones. This is a service included in "au Smart Pass Premium" and can be used for 548 yen / month.

In addition to detecting viruses and blocking intrusions, you can also restrict access to malicious sites and display warnings, and check the safety of newly installed apps in real time.

[Reference] au / OfficeScan for au

Antivirus application that can also use security scan and battery consumption reduction functions [SoftBank / Smart Security powered by McAfee]

Softbank's "Smart Security powered by McAfee" is equipped with a "security scan function" that detects whether the data saved on smartphones and tablets and the apps to be downloaded contain viruses. The check extends to the data in the microSD memory card.

In addition, Wi-Fi check function and privacy check function are also available. You can also use the battery saver function to reduce the battery consumption of your smartphone and improve the processing speed. Compatible models are Android smartphones and Android tablets, and the price is 330 yen / month.

[Reference] Softbank / Smart Security powered by McAfee

Antivirus app that can warn dangerous sites and apps [Rakuten Mobile / Norton Mobile Security]

Rakuten Mobile offers "Norton Mobile Security" for 220 yen / month.

Functions such as malicious site detection / warning and insecure Wi-Fi warning can be used on both iPhone and Android smartphones. In addition, you can use the function to notify when the iOS update is delayed on the iPhone, and the function to judge and warn the danger of the application on the Android smartphone.

[Reference] Rakuten Mobile / Norton Mobile Security

* Data is from the editorial department as of mid-February 2022. * Although every effort has been made to ensure the information, we do not guarantee the completeness or accuracy of the content. * Please use the product at your own risk.

Sentence / Fumihiko Sato