DO YOU ACTUALLY NEED ANTIVIRUS ON ANDROID?

Android's Play Store vetting process and the OS's sandboxed architecture filter out most malware before it reaches devices. Google Play Protect, built into every Android phone, scans apps continuously for threats. Antivirus apps become relevant in specific scenarios: sideloading apps from untrusted sources, using public WiFi frequently for sensitive transactions, or accessing banking apps on older, unpatched devices. For typical users who download apps only from the Play Store and keep their OS updated, additional antivirus software adds minimal value while consuming battery and storage. The trade-off rarely justifies the overhead. Security basics remain essential regardless: enable automatic updates, use strong passwords, review app permissions before installing, and avoid suspicious links. These practices provide stronger protection than most antivirus apps.