Add ScamShield and Anti-Virus Apps

Unsecured devices leave you vulnerable against unseen criminals

Last updated 14 February 2025

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Viruses, worms, Trojan horses and other forms of malware (i.e., malicious software) can infect your devices and cause your devices to slow down or malfunction. Cybercriminals can also deploy malware to corrupt files, steal data, and even gain access to your social media and bank accounts.

We have seen many cases where victims lost large amounts of money due to unauthorised bank account withdrawals on mobile devices infected with malware.

Scammers often target victims through SMSes or phone calls. Do add the ScamShield app which can protect you by detecting scam messages and blocking scam calls.

ScamShield is an app developed by Open Government Products in collaboration with the Singapore Police Force and the National Crime Prevention Council. For more information, visit the ScamShield website.

Anti-virus apps which can detect malware and malicious phishing links are also key to safeguarding your devices and accounts.

How to choose an anti-virus app

It is important to note that anti-virus apps from different brands have varying functions and capabilities. Below are some factors to consider and steps to take when choosing an anti-virus app:

Download from official app stores

Do not download apps from unknown or unofficial sources.
Only use app stores such as Google Play Store (Android) or Apple App Store (iOS), as these platforms have measures in place to detect and remove malicious apps.
For apps that do not have an automatic update function, do update your apps promptly when you receive a notification to do so. This will ensure that you will have the most up-to-date protection against cyber threats.

Verify application permissions

When installing an app, review and grant the necessary permissions relevant to the app’s functionality.
Be cautious if the app asks for excessive or unrelated permissions.

Review application developers

Check the developer’s reputation, number of downloads and app reviews before downloading their apps. Stick to well-known developers where possible.

Consider apps with malware removal capabilities

While many apps provide basic malware detection, malware removal often remains a separate feature. Many free options can only detect and quarantine malware, but may not offer removal options if your devices are found to be infected.

Recommended security apps

Not sure which security app to download? CSA has put together a list of recommended apps which users can download to suit their needs and budget. The apps come in free and paid versions, offering a range of features such as malicious URL blocking and malware scanning.

CSA conducted tests on the malware and phishing detection capabilities of these apps in August 2024. The methodology involved installing the anti-virus app on a device and infecting the device with recent malware variants to test if the app was able to detect them. Similarly, the device was also used to access selected phishing websites to test if the anti-virus app detected them.

To counter ever-evolving malware variants and phishing tactics, CSA has updated its list of recommended Security Apps and expanded the testing criteria to include new categories in January 2025.

Do note that due to iOS’ security restrictions, it is not possible for the anti-virus app to scan other iOS apps for malware. As such, CSA could not test their ability to detect malware on iOS devices.

But remember – there is no 100% protection and it is important to remain vigilant and adopt good cyber hygiene habits to protect your devices.

List of recommended security apps [PDF, 2.2 MB]

Note: Due to iOS restrictions, the anti-virus apps are not able to scan other apps in iOS devices to detect malware.

Resources

Cyber Tip: Add ScamShield and Anti-Virus Apps

Government officials will never ask you to transfer money or disclose bank log-in details over a phone call.