You don't need a separate antivirus if you rely on Samsung Knox and Google Play Protect for basic use, as Knox offers strong hardware-level security, but an extra antivirus can add valuable layers for risky activities (sideloading apps, public Wi-Fi) by providing features like anti-phishing, anti-tracking, and real-time scanning beyond Knox's background protection. Knox protects the system, while a dedicated app can scan installed apps and offer extra features, so it's about your usage habits.
Samsung Knox can protect your devices against viruses although it is not an antivirus software in its own right. Samsung Knox isn't a program or application, but is hardware built into your Samsung device at the point of manufacture.
Conclusion. In a nutshell, Samsung Knox is a great security feature for Samsung smartphones and tablets. However, it is not enough to use it without an antivirus given that it isn't designed specifically to handle virus and malware attacks.
Do Android phones need antivirus? While Android has built-in security features that help to protect against malware and other security threats, it may still be a good idea for users to install a reputable Android antivirus app on their device.
Flagship Samsung smartphones, including the sensational Galaxy Z Fold3 5G, Galaxy Z Flip3 5G, Galaxy S21 series and the latest Galaxy A series come pre-installed with McAfee anti-malware protection. Samsung Knox provides another incredible layer of security.
Real-time protection: The Knox security platform monitors the kernel (low-level device software) and blocks unauthorized attempts to modify it, offering protection in real-time. App behaviours are monitored continuously and any attempts to escalate app privileges get blocked so that hackers can't gain access.
Android phones, while also designed with cybersecurity in mind, rely on open-source code, making them an easier target for hackers. Additionally, giving users the capability to install third-party apps from alternative app stores, such as the Amazon or Samsung Galaxy app stores, makes Android devices open to viruses.
Once it's on your computer or laptop, malware can steal your data, encrypt it so you can't access it, or even erase it completely. For this reason it's important that you always use antivirus software, and keep it up to date to protect your data and devices.
With Norton 360 Deluxe you can install Mobile Security, a full-powered VPN, and Password Management on your Android devices.
Samsung Wallet is protected by Samsung Knox, which includes fingerprint recognition and encryption of your data to make sure it is secure.
The Samsung secret code *#9900# opens the SysDump menu, primarily used to delete temporary junk files (dumpstate/logcat) to free up space and potentially speed up your device, and also offers options like resetting battery statistics for better performance. It's a shortcut to system functions for maintenance, allowing users to clear logs and manage battery data, but should be used with caution as it accesses system-level functions.
Do I need mobile security for Android? Android devices can be vulnerable to malware, phishing, and unsafe apps—just like computers. Norton Mobile Security helps protect your device and personal data with powerful features like App Advisor, Wi-Fi Security, and Web Protection. It's an easy way to stay safer on the go.
You'll know your phone has a virus by symptoms like slow performance, rapid battery drain, high data usage, pop-up ads, strange apps, or unexpected messages to contacts, indicating malicious software is using your phone's resources or stealing data. To check, review your Settings > Apps for unfamiliar apps, monitor data/battery usage, and run a scan with a reputable mobile antivirus app like McAfee Security for Android from the Google Play Store or App Store.
Typing *#0*# (star-hash-zero-star-hash) into the phone dialer on a Samsung device opens a hidden General Test Mode, a secret diagnostic menu used for checking hardware components like the screen (touch, color), sensors, speakers, cameras, and vibration. It's a valuable tool for users to self-diagnose issues or verify a device's functionality, especially when buying a used phone, as it allows you to test functions like touch responsiveness, RGB colors, and sensor accuracy.
Best Antivirus Software in Australia (2025 Edition): Top Picks for PC & Mobile Protection
Although some devices may have built-in protection against viruses, using third-party antivirus software remains essential in 2026, whether free or paid.
While Android has built-in security measures, a dedicated antivirus app adds an extra layer of protection against malware and provides valuable safeguards against other online threats like scams, fake websites, and risky Wi-Fi networks.
What's the hardest phone to hack? Android phones are generally considered less secure than iPhones thanks to Apple's focus on encryption. But both are more susceptible to hackers thanks to their popularity.
Look for signs you may have been hacked.
Hello, I'm Aaron Craig, an Android Devices expert here to help you. To run an antivirus scan on a Samsung A15, go to your phone's Settings > Battery and device care > Device protection > Scan phone. This will initiate a scan using the built-in security features of your Samsung device.
An average antivirus app detected malware more accurately and faster than Play Protect's combined on-device and cloud-based scans. Only some services that Google provides have to be on the highest level.
How to get rid of a virus on your Android phone: Step-by-Step