Security for mobile phone

*Scarlett

Hi all

Do you have to install a security system on a mobile phone that you use for the internet as you would for a laptop / computer?

I have had smart phones for a while but never really bothered with internet access but have recently upgraded and may want to use the phone for internet access from time to time as I now have some inclusive data in the package.

None of my friends seem to have installed any extra security on their phones but it just concerns me about accessing mobile banking, Paypal, etc.

What would you advise?

(Sorry if this is a dim question, but I'm not the most clued up person when it comes to anything tech!)

Many thanks.

macman

Yes, you should. Avast Mobile will do the job if you are running Android OS on your phone.
http://www.avast.com/free-mobile-security

InsideInsurance

What OS are you running? What are your actual concerns?

Ivrytwr3

i have avast free and cereberus (paid)

StuC75

Which phone are you using? without this turning into a fanboy flamewar...

Iphones (non jailbroken) tend to be very 'sandboxed' in how they operate - meaning applications cannot interfere with the system \ other apps, meaning Paypal works on its own separate to everything else.

Android apps - particularly sourced outside of the main 'stores' can do anything and most will show on the install screen what they are capable of when first installing - message \ places calls etc..

Jailbroken \ Rooted devices can have such weaknesses, since the key part of each process is to open up what can be done with the device - to both Good & Bad extents...

Malicious adverts in the apps can cause other problems too with some apps..

*Scarlett

It's a Sony Experia J. Contract is through Vodafone.

When you say Jailbroken / Rooted unfortunately I have no idea what you are talking about :eek:
I really have no clue about these things!

My main concerns would be that I always pay for extra security for my laptop (Norton 360) so if I am doing the same sort of things on the phone do I need extra security?

Thanks for the replies.

Stooby2

Looking at Google the Experia is an Android phone. Go for Avast - it's free and does what it says on the tin. There's also AVG, but I found it seriously munched my battery so I now use Avast.

Don't worry about "Rooted/Jailbroken", your phone isn't and is more for people who like to tinker and modify their phones.

Sportycus

I have a Galaxy Note 2 and am using Kaspersky.

Its what i use on my PC, if its good enough for that, it's good enough for my rooted Android!

JaniceJohnson

Yes I have installed antivirus to protect my mobile phone from unwanted virus.

DCFC79

JaniceJohnson wrote: »

Yes I have installed antivirus to protect my mobile phone from unwanted virus.

Go on and tell us which 1 you installed ?

wallbash

Before getting concerned about a 'virus' threat worry about the much more likely event of losing/stolen phone.

http://preyproject.com/

Its free and it works.