Antivirus Vs VPN: Which Is the Best for Smartphones

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Antivirus Vs VPN: Which Is the Best for Smartphones

As smartphones become increasingly integral to our daily lives, protecting these devices from cyber threats is more important than ever. Mobile devices contain a trove of sensitive personal and financial data that make them prime targets for hackers.

Fortunately, there are tools available to keep your smartphone secure against online dangers. Making the right choice between antivirus software and virtual private networks (VPNs) is key to establishing robust protection.

Here, we have compared the unique security benefits of both options and make recommendations for keeping your mobile devices safe. You'll learn how antivirus and VPNs complement each other for full-spectrum defense against the latest mobile malware and data breaches.

How Antivirus Software Protects Smartphones

Antivirus software is designed to detect and remove malware, viruses, spyware, and other threats that could infect your device. It works by scanning files, apps, and processes running on your device in real time to identify anything suspicious.

Good antivirus apps for Android and iOS will:

  • Scan apps before you download them to ensure they are safe

  • Block malicious websites and links

  • Provide real-time protection against threats

  • Run frequent system scans to detect existing infections

  • Offer additional features like anti-theft tools, firewalls, call blockers, etc.

By installing a reputable antivirus app like Bitdefender or Norton, you can ensure your smartphone stays protected against the latest cybersecurity threats targeting mobile devices.

How VPNs Protect Smartphones

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) does not scan for malware like an antivirus. Instead, it encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a remote server run by the VPN provider. This hides your IP address so your online activities are anonymous.

Benefits of using a VPN on a smartphone include:

  • Hide your location and browsing history from your internet provider

  • Access blocked apps and websites when traveling abroad

  • Protect your data on public WiFi connections

  • Prevent price discrimination based on your location

Some of the top VPNs for Android and iPhones include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark. You can choose the best mobile VPN to protect your online activities.

Antivirus + VPN: Best Combo for Smartphones

For maximum online security, the best solution is to use both an antivirus tool and a VPN.

The antivirus will scan apps and files on your device for malware, while the VPN will encrypt internet traffic to keep hackers and spying eyes out. Together, they provide complete protection against a wide range of cyber threats.

The good news is many antivirus brands like McAfee and Norton now offer VPN solutions. You can purchase them bundled together at a discounted price.

For the strongest protection, go with a leading antivirus product with high malware detection scores combined with a fast, no-logs VPN that works seamlessly on mobile.

Final Words

Smartphones contain a wealth of sensitive personal information, so it's important to secure them. The best approach is using both antivirus software to block threats and clean infections, paired with a VPN to encrypt online traffic. Leading products like Norton 360 and Surfshark complement each other perfectly to keep your devices safe.

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