Add ScamShield and Anti-Virus Apps
Pressured to click on a link? Stop and Check if it's real
Last updated 5 November 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 a suite of products and tools that helps defend against scams. The suite consists of the ScamShield Helpline (reachable at 1799), ScamShield app, a website with a range of anti-scam resources. It is a joint effort by the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Singapore Police Force, Open Government Products 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 official 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 App 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
Check out App Reviews
• Check the developer’s reputation, app ratings and reviews as well as the number of downloads. Stick to well-known developers where possible
Consider Apps with Real-Time Malware Detection Capabilities (Android Devices only)
• While many apps provide basic malware detection[1] and malware removal, real-time detection often remains a separate feature. Many free options can only detect and remove malware through a manual scan but may not offer real-time detection options if your devices are found to be infected.
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 for users. The list aims to help users select a reliable app to download based on their needs and budget. The security apps listed offer a range of features such as malicious URL blocking, malware scanning[1], device integrity checks and network detection capabilities.
CSA conducted tests on the malware[1] detection, phishing detection, device integrity check and network detection capabilities of security apps. The security app's testing methodology involved several stages.
The first stage involved installing the security app on a test device and exposing it to recent malware variants to evaluate its detection capabilities. The second stage involved accessing known phishing websites to assess the app's ability to detect malicious sites. The app’s capabilities on detecting network attacks was also tested. Finally, jailbreak and rooting checks were performed to verify the app's device integrity monitoring features.
Do remember – there is no 100% protection and it is important to remain vigilant and adopt good cyber hygiene habits to protect your devices.
https://www.csa.gov.sg/resources/tips-and-resources/recommended-security-apps-list
[1]Note: Do note that due to iOS’ security architecture, it is not possible for security apps to scan other iOS apps for the presence of malware. As such, CSA could not test their ability to detect malware on iOS devices.
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