Antivirus applications keep your smartphone secure from malware and other threats, however many of them also provide additional features that improve the security of your smartphone. Some of these features include a password manager that protects your login credentials, VPN functionality for enhanced privacy and security and tools to help find or remotely wipe out stolen smartphones.

Most antivirus services will test your phone on a regular basis to look appsguide.org/total-av-antivirus-review for malware signatures that could be causing the problem. Typically, they conduct these checks according to a schedule that you define and will notify you when any threats are detected. They also will determine whether you’re connected to an unsecured network which could expose your personal information to attackers.

Depending on the service provider certain antiviruses could come with additional features like anti-theft protection and a call blocker. Kaspersky for instance, has a feature that can take three photos of the person trying to access your device. It also permits you to wipe or lock it remotely. Other services also have features for tuning up your system that eliminate junk files and speed up your device, while others have a tool that can alert you to unsafe apps or settings.

One way to assess the level of security a service offers your phone is to check how it scores in the security ratings of independent testing labs. Some of these rankings are determined by the number of threats identified as well as other factors like how quickly the service can detect threats and removes them. Some services also go above and beyond by offering features such as a money back guarantee and 24/7 customer assistance.