New Avira security tools come to Android and OS X

When it comes to security, it is fair to say that there is no shortage of apps to choose from. This is especially true for PC users, but anyone with a Mac or Android device now has new tools to add to the list of choices -- thanks to the most recent releases from security experts Avira. Both Avira Free Android Security and Avira Free Mac Security are, as you’ve no doubt determined, available free of charge, and both apps tackle security in different ways.

Avira Free Mac Security is very much what you would expect, offering protection against viruses and malware. This is an app that prides itself on the minimum of interaction that is needed from the user -- for the most part it will sit quietly in the background fending off threats as and when necessary. Definitions updates are made available frequently and the app does its job well. It is sign of a great piece of software when it is not necessary to think about the fact that it is installed.

Android users also have a new security tool in the form of Avira Free Android Security. This is not an antivirus or malware protection tool, but a security app that helps to protect your data should your phone be lost or stolen and provides you with a series of tools that might help you to get your phone back. If you are unsure where you left your phone, the ‘screamer’ feature can be used to make it emit a loud noise to alert you or someone else to its presence, but there are more options available.

It is also possible to use an online account to track the phone’s location via GPS, and even keep an eye on the battery level. While some security apps offer a remote wiping facility, this app instead includes a remote locking system that can be used to put your phone into a reduced functionality mode. In this mode nothing but a call to a predefined number and the emergency services can be made, keeping your data away from prying eyes. Both of these apps are available free of charge, even to business users.

You can find out more and download free copies of the apps by paying a visit to the review pages for both Avira Free Android Security and Avira Free Mac Security.