AV-TEST Launches New Android Security App Evaluation for Businesses

AV-TEST, a cybersecurity research organization, has launched a dedicated testing series for Android security applications targeting business users. Recognizing that the requirements for corporate mobile security differ from those for consumers, the new tests evaluate apps based on their effectiveness in protecting against malware, their impact on device performance, and their usability.

The testing methodology mirrors consumer evaluations in assessing protection, performance, and usability, with each category awarding up to six points for a maximum total of 18. In the protection tests, AV-TEST simulated real-world threats using thousands of newly identified and historical malware samples. App performance was measured by their impact on battery life and processor load, while usability assessed the apps' ability to distinguish between genuine threats and legitimate business applications, minimizing false alarms.

In the initial evaluation featuring ESET Endpoint Security, Sophos Intercept X for Mobile, and Symantec's SEP Mobile, all three products achieved perfect scores of 18 points. ESET Endpoint Security and Symantec SEP Mobile demonstrated near-perfect malware detection rates, both exceeding 99.9% in real-time and reference set tests. Sophos Intercept X for Mobile also performed strongly with 99.9% detection in both segments.

The tests indicate that the evaluated security solutions not only provide robust protection but also operate efficiently without unduly draining battery or slowing down devices. Furthermore, the tested applications successfully avoided flagging legitimate business software as malicious, a critical factor for corporate IT administrators. This new series aims to provide businesses with more tailored insights into the security posture of their mobile device fleets.