Now, it's probably unthinkable you'd operate a laptop or desktop computer without antivirus. Who knows what's out there. Amazingly though, we have such a different different when it comes to our smartphone.
We deem them to be immune to attack. We store all our details, passwords and even bank details on them, reliant upon internal security measures. But should we? Or should we really be investing in anti-virus software for mobile too?
In a word, the answer to the latter is absolutely yes. While our mobiles are more secure without anti-virus than what a laptop would be without it, there are vulnerabilities within the security of Android and iOS devices.
The Android app store can be a particular goldmine for malware as the Google Play store is a lot more relaxed than the Apple App Store and can let in apps with Android-specific malware and ransomware, with it quite possible you'll simply accidentally download it when purchasing even a game.
When it comes to iOS devices, there's often a misconception that iOS is essentially a Mac operating system and therefore doesn't require anti-virus. That's far from the truth and you do need anti-virus for both. Despite that, Apple are much more stringent on the apps allowed within the app store so you are less likely to download material that's a risk.
However, advertising with malware attached is still a threat, therefore it is well worth investing in anti-virus, particularly if you jailbreak your phone. In this case you leave yourself incredibly open as the apps will no have that App Store filter and leave you open to attack.
Anti-virus really is a must and there are now dozens of software services that are available cross platform, so you'll be able to add it to both your laptop or desktop device and mobile. Brands such as TotalAV offer this, protecting you against spyware, ransomware and malware and compatible with both Android and iOS devices.
Just like with a desktop, it's important to scan your mobile regularly to check for issues. Think about the data we store on our smartphones and how dangerous it could be in the wrong hands.
You can read our TotalAV antivirus review to learn more, although there are dozens of pieces of software on the market to suit all budgets.
It really is worth investing in, especially if a lot of confidential information is kept on your phone. Simple things like connecting to a public wi-fi can leave you vulnerable, so whether you're waiting at an airport or sitting in a coffee shop there are potential threats around.
Hackers, malware and spyware continues to become more advanced and while so does security on our mobile, it most certainly isn't worth chancing. For just a few dollars a month you can potentially save yourself money and a lot of hassle should your data become breached. It's a no brainer, even if you think you don't need it.
