Anti Virus ?

[TheShadowDroid2]

I'm kinda of new to Android and I'm running Galaxy S9,My ? is do you really have to use a Anti Virus my S9 came factory installed with Lookout I never download anything except from the play store and I'm careful as far as not opening up any email links or pop up links as well, I know my last 5 iPhone there security is good so I never had to use a antivirus, Sorry if this has been covered before but I just can't get a firm answer on this. Thanks so much for the info folks

 

[Dannydet]

Android typically does not need anti virus protection as long as you download from the play store and don't allow installs from unknown sources.
Never used one ever as most become memory hogs

 

[dontpanicbobby]

Stay with the Play Store and you'll be okay. The big problem Android users face is malware. A simple definition of Malware is/are apps that don't reveal everything that they do. Maybe a developer cam explain it better...

 

[lunatic59]

Malware is a broad term for any application that does anything deceptive or nasty to the user. Infection vectors are platform agnostic ... they don't care what you use as long as they can trick you into installing something or giving them information to take something from you.

All platforms are vulnerable.

That said, as long as you stick to the play store as @Dannydet and @dontpanicbobby have stated you won't need any anti "virus" apps. (There are no true viruses anymore). Just watch out for fake notices telling you that you've been infected with something and you need to install something else to fix it. Google, Samsung, Apple, Microsoft, etc. NEVER (as in ever) send out those types of warnings. It's ALWAYS a scam and most likely coming through as some browser trick.