Most cyber fraud in India today starts on a phone: a "your electricity will be cut tonight" SMS, a fake courier APK on WhatsApp, a "KYC update" link. A mobile security app won't fix careless clicking — but it catches a lot of the malicious links and apps that slip through.
Free steps first (do these today)
- Keep Google Play Protect on (Play Store → profile → Play Protect).
- Never install APK files sent on WhatsApp or SMS — banks and courier companies never ask you to.
- Turn on screen lock and Find My Device.
- Don't share OTPs, even with "bank officials".
Common scams we see in India (and how to spot them)
- "Electricity will be disconnected tonight" SMS with a number to call — the caller asks you to install a screen-sharing app. Real electricity boards don't do this.
- Fake courier / wedding invite APK on WhatsApp — installing it gives fraudsters access to your SMS and OTPs.
- "KYC update" links pretending to be your bank or wallet.
- UPI collect requests — to receive money you never need to enter your UPI PIN.
- Part-time job / task scams on Telegram asking you to "invest" first.
If you've already shared details, call the national cyber fraud helpline 1930 immediately and report at cybercrime.gov.in — the faster you report, the better the chance of stopping the money.
When a paid app helps
For parents' phones, phones used for trading and UPI, or anyone who receives lots of links — paid apps add web/link protection, scam SMS filtering, app lock and anti-theft.
Avast Mobile Security
Feature-rich: scam and phishing protection, Wi-Fi security checks, app lock, photo vault.
{product:avast-mobile-security-1-user-1-year}ESET Mobile Security
Very light on battery with excellent detection; includes anti-phishing, payment protection and anti-theft. Our pick for older or budget phones.
{product:eset-mobile-security-1-user-1-year}McAfee Mobile Security
Simple to use, with safe browsing, Wi-Fi scanning and identity features. Good for less technical family members.
{product:mcafee-mobile-security-1-user-1-year}Protecting your PC as well? Read best antivirus for PC in India.
Frequently asked questions
Does Android need antivirus?
If you only install apps from the Play Store and never open unknown links, Play Protect covers a lot. Paid apps add stronger link and scam protection.
Can a security app stop UPI fraud?
It can block many phishing links and malicious apps, but no app can stop you from sharing an OTP or approving a collect request. Stay alert.