AVG AntiVirus for Android review

AVG AntiVirus for Android is a capable free app with more privacy tools than most. The free version scans for viruses, spyware and other threats, removes stubborn malware that resists uninstalling, and blocks links to scam websites and dangerous downloads. It checks Wi-Fi networks for security issues, warns you if one of your email accounts is compromised, hides photos in a password-protected vault, and shows which apps hold which permissions and how much data they use. A junk cleaner frees up storage. AVG keeps several features behind its upgrade: locking apps with a PIN, pattern or fingerprint, alerts for scam texts and chat messages, the VPN, and automatic scheduled scans. The Android page does not publish a USD upgrade price, so you see it only in the app. AVG shares an owner and much of its scam technology with Avast, but Avast's free tier states real-time scanning more clearly, which is why AVG ranks lower here.

Who it is for

Android users who want free malware scanning plus privacy extras like a photo vault and app permission reports.

Price

Free version; paid upgrade priced in the app. See vendor pricing (USD check pending).

US price check pending. See the vendor pricing page.

Key features

• Free scans for viruses, spyware and other threats, with removal of hard-to-uninstall threats
• Blocks links to scam websites and dangerous downloads
• Wi-Fi vulnerability scan before you connect
• Password-protected photo vault and email compromise warnings
• Junk file cleaner and app permission and data usage overview

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Scam link blocking and Wi-Fi checks are free
• Strength: Photo vault and email breach warnings add privacy value
• Strength: Runs on Android 8.0 or above
• Weakness: App Lock, scam text alerts and the VPN need an upgrade
• Weakness: Automatic scans are a paid feature
• Weakness: No USD upgrade price on the Android page

Key facts

• Free plan: Yes
• Android version: 8.0 or above
• Paid extras: App Lock, scam text alerts, VPN, automatic scans
• Owner: Gen Digital

Where it ranks

AVG AntiVirus for Android is No. 5 in our Best Antivirus for Android verdict and No. 3 in Best Free Antivirus for Android.