Most Samsung Galaxy phones already include several layers of protection, so you may not need to install a separate antivirus app just to scan for malware. Google Play Protect is enabled by default, and supported phones offer Samsung Auto Blocker and Device care tools. The exact options depend on the phone, region and software version.
Does a Samsung phone need antivirus?
Start with the protections already on your Galaxy. Samsung says Google Play Protect is built in and enabled by default; it scans apps and can block an installation it flags as risky. Auto Blocker can add safeguards against apps from unauthorized sources and other threats on supported devices. These features reduce some risks, but they do not make a phone immune to malware, and Samsung does not establish that every Galaxy has identical tools.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
The antivirus solution available through Samsung’s App protection can vary by region. The official information does not establish a fair comparison of named third-party antivirus apps, so a longer feature list alone is not evidence that an app is more effective.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteWhat protection is built into Galaxy phones?
Google Play Protect
Samsung says Google Play Protect is enabled by default on Galaxy devices. To review its settings, open the Google Play Store, tap your profile icon, then tap Play Protect and its settings. Samsung recommends leaving app scanning enabled. Samsung’s Auto Blocker support page describes Play Protect and its role in checking apps.
#1 Best Overall
- PRIVACY DISPLAY: Automatically hide your screen from those beside you. The built-in privacy display can be preset¹ to turn on when receiving notifications, typing passwords, or using specific apps
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist² with Galaxy AI.³ Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- NIGHTS, CAPTURED CLEARLY: From gigs to city lights, record and capture moments after dark with clarity using Nightography so your photos and videos stay crisp and clear on your Samsung Galaxy
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile phone, whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more⁴
- HELP THAT KEEPS UP: Stay in the moment while Now Nudge with Galaxy AI helps you respond faster and stay organized with smart suggestions⁵ that appear exactly when you need them on your phone
Auto Blocker
Auto Blocker is available on supported Galaxy software. Samsung Knox lists One UI 6.0 (Android 14) or later as the requirement. It can prevent app installations from unauthorized sources while allowing installations from recognized stores such as Google Play and Galaxy Store. It also blocks commands sent over USB and includes Message Guard protections against malicious image payloads in supported messaging apps. See Samsung Knox’s Auto Blocker documentation for the documented protections.
To check it, open Settings → Security and privacy → Auto Blocker. Names and menus can differ by model and software version; if you do not see that path, search for “Auto Blocker” in Settings. Samsung’s support page says availability and features vary.
Rank #2
- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with other CDMA carriers, and it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro). Battery: 5000 mAh, non-removable | A power adapter is NOT included.
Maximum restrictions
On supported software, Maximum restrictions adds tighter controls. Depending on the device and version, these can include blocking device-admin apps and work profiles, restricting some message links or previews, and additional privacy and connection controls. Samsung notes that some device capabilities may be affected. One UI 6.1.1 added Maximum restrictions, according to Samsung’s support page updated July 22, 2026. Enable it only if its restrictions fit how you use the phone.
Device care
Device care provides scanning and diagnostic options for reviewing suspicious applications. Menu labels and diagnostic availability vary. If a scan identifies an app as a risk, Samsung advises reviewing it and uninstalling it when appropriate; its troubleshooting steps are covered in Samsung’s suspicious-app and Device care guidance.
Rank #3
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
How to check a Galaxy phone for suspicious apps
Slowness, freezes or unwanted advertisements after installing a third-party app are reasons to investigate, not proof that the phone has a virus. Some apps display fake security warnings to pressure users into installing more software. Use the phone’s own settings to check before trusting a pop-up.
- Connect to Wi-Fi and restart the phone. Samsung recommends doing this before diagnostics for more accurate results.
- Check Device care notifications. Review any app or security warnings shown there.
- Review apps in deep sleep. Look for apps you do not recognize or no longer trust.
- Run App safety Diagnostics if available. Open Settings → Device care → Diagnostics → App safety Diagnostics.
- Review and remove suspicious apps. Samsung also recommends manually reviewing installed apps in Settings if no alert appears. Uninstall apps you cannot verify or do not need.
If the menu names do not match, search Settings for “Device care” or “Diagnostics”; Samsung says labels and availability can vary.
Rank #4
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
How to reduce the chance of installing a malicious app
- Prefer apps from recognized official stores, such as Google Play Store or Galaxy Store.
- Keep the phone’s software up to date.
- Be wary of unexpected prompts to install an app or change a security setting.
- Leave Play Protect app scanning enabled.
- Keep Auto Blocker on unless you have a specific, trusted reason to install an app from another source.
Auto Blocker may also interfere with sideloaded apps or some work-app installations. If you need an app that is blocked, first verify its source with the organization or provider that supplied it rather than disabling protection in response to an unexpected prompt.
Do the same protections appear on every Samsung phone?
No. Samsung’s Knox documentation specifies One UI 6.0 (Android 14) or later for Auto Blocker, while Samsung’s support guidance says menus and feature availability vary by model and software version. Maximum restrictions is an additional feature, and the antivirus solution used by App protection can vary by region. Check the settings on your own phone rather than assuming another Galaxy model has the same controls.
Best Value
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist¹ with Galaxy AI.² Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more³
- FAST. POWERFUL. AI-READY: Power through your day with AI-accelerated performance from our fastest, smoothest and most powerful Galaxy processor yet, built to keep up with everything you do
- IMMENSELY IMMERSIVE: No matter where you are or what you’re watching, your favorite videos and more come to life with the vibrant display on Galaxy S26
- FIT EVERYONE IN THE SHOT: Group selfies are easier on your Samsung phone with a wider front camera⁴ that captures more of the scene, so no one gets left out of the moment
Samsung introduced Auto Blocker as a user choice. At its October 31, 2023 announcement, Dr. Seungwon Shin, then EVP and Head of Security Team for Samsung Electronics’ Mobile eXperience Business, said: “We always seek to empower our users to choose for themselves what best suits their needs – rather than us deciding on their behalf, and Auto Blocker is no exception to that.” Samsung Newsroom US
What about a USB data blocker?
Auto Blocker already blocks commands over USB on supported phones. A USB data blocker can be a narrow accessory for charging from an untrusted connection, but it is not antivirus software: it does not scan apps or remove malware. Samsung’s documentation describes the USB risk scenario, but does not endorse a particular accessory.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →
