Advice Request Realme "Phone Manager" app

[Nunzio_77]

Hi everyone,
I have a Realme 8 5G and the "Phone Manager" system app is installed, which I believe is the same one used by Oppo.

Do you think this is sufficient to ensure the security of the smartphone?
The AV engine used is Avast.

Or is it necessary to also use a third-party AV engine?

Thanks.

 

[roger_m]

If you're only installing apps from the Play Store that should be enough. Particularly considering that Android devices also include malware protection from Google Play Protect.

 

[RoboMan]

It is enough, as long as you follow the standard security practices to ensure your safety. For example:

• Have your phone OS updated to the latest security patch
• Use a phone that's still supported with security updates
• Only install apps from the Play Store or supported official app stores
• Don't navigate on shady websites or download pirated apps
• Keep all apps updated
• If possible, use a system-wide adblocker like AdGuard Premium

 

[Wrecker4923]

And since malware apps can slip through or be pushed as updates on app stores sometimes, you should also consider:

• Minimizing to "necessary" apps on your mobile devices, making do with what you have instead of always looking for the latest apps.
• Reviewing apps to be installed carefully (considering their reviews: are they reputable? Anonymous or pseudonymous? Too few users, and hence not enough reviews?)
• Reviewing app permissions carefully. Installing apps when you are tired or hurried may not be a good idea.

 

[stonjean633]

I think your phone's latest OS is based on Android 13. Support of that ends by January 2026.

You can have that Avast or other 3rd party AV but it won't be enough if OS is end of support.

 

[roger_m]

You can have that Avast or other 3rd party AV but it won't be enough if OS is end of support.

While it certainly is best to be using a supported OS, I use Android devices which no longer receive security updates and never get infected.