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Well I was just reading a thread about someone buying a Vibrant from someone who "found" it and this person was looking for a way to bypass WaveSecure.
We all know that with a little know how that it is possible with Recovery Mode.
The question I have is there a way to prevent even a Recovery Mode reflash? To absolutely stop someone from touching the ROM at all?
I know the Security Apps out right now can track you from GPS, wipe the phone remotely, etc... But can it stop someone from reflashing a ROM?
If there is a app out there like that please let me know, but if not, what would it take to create such a app.
What are YOUR thoughts??
What if this happens and then you brick for some reason need to reflash and it's locked. I would just bank on the fact that most people think that it's a "Droid" phone and don't know ****.
I was hoping for a question like that.
Either there is a security measure which at some point of using Recovery that it asks for a password or pin. Something that will allow you to access it securely and nobody else.
Yes, it is a droid, very true, but how many droids are out there now, are going to be out there, and with the new laws that allow you to unlock your device and pretty much do anything with it, more and more people are going to start playing around. Not only that, there is always somebody who knows someone, you know.
Personally myself, I would feel secure with having an implementation like this, everything else is pointless.
It's sort of like having a anti virus on your computer but not scanning for rootkits, only viruses.
The idea of that app sounds nice and all that but I seriously doubt that the average Android user would know about flashing ROMs and all that. But if it does get into the hands of somebody that does know how to do it then it can be a problem.
jzero88 said:
Yes, it is a droid, very true, but how many droids...
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First of all these are android devices / android phones. I was mocking the people who call these phones "droid" phones.
Now on topic: All it takes to break this security is for one person to say, "I forgot my password on for the ==sUPERlOCKER== what do I do to get access?" Then all your worry is for nothing again.
What has been done can always be undone.
Sure, unlike me, I never forget my passwords. Especially for something this serious.
Second, of course something can be undo, but to what extent, after hearing your lack of concern makes me think you don't even have a lock on your phone
Again, would you rather have a password like "1234" that is easily guessed, or would you rather have something like "00LowJK54889$3%#". It's really a matter of personal security.
You sound like one of those people who would have Security Cameras, but never has the DVR on to record anything.
I'm saying your idea is bad. I have illustrated why. You have no counterpoint other than that I am 'relaxed' about my phone security.
How about this, keep your phone in your pocket or hand? 100% security.
This should be in general and not development
Sent from my Vibrant using xda app
This has been discussed a few times, you could compile your own recovery image and program in a password while at it, or you can accept that 90% of theives(or people who would find your phone) cannot get to recovery. If I found a phone then yeah I would go straight to recovery but I'm not your average user.
Sent from my T-Mobile myTouch 3G Slide using XDA App
I'm saying your idea is bad. I have illustrated why. You have no counterpoint other than that I am 'relaxed' about my phone security.
How about this, keep your phone in your pocket or hand? 100% security.
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First, my idea is not bad, give it time, you will see.
Second, I do not have a counterpoint because my main point is stated in the first post. Read again.
Third, I don't care if you are relaxed about your security or not. This post obviously is not for you, another negative person who stunts development if they do not see a logical use for themselves.
I wish you the best and hope that you do not need to ever use such a tool or measure. Take it easy.
This has been discussed a few times, you could compile your own recovery image and program in a password while at it, or you can accept that 90% of theives(or people who would find your phone) cannot get to recovery. If I found a phone then yeah I would go straight to recovery but I'm not your average user.
Sent from my T-Mobile myTouch 3G Slide using XDA App
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On the Vibrant forums? Haven't seen anything yet.
Also, I am not betting on a thief or someone who found the phone to be able to get to recovery, I'm worried about who these people might know. It's surprising to see how many people out here think that they are the only person in a 20 mile radius who knows how to do such mods... Maybe it's just the people I know but I know quite a few people who can easily google and find a way, easily.
I can bet that 90% of people here do not know anything except following directions, no pun intended to those who do. I definitely do not know half of what I should know, but again, is it really that hard?
Your own logic defeats what you are saying here. Don't you understand OP?
If there is a security measure, there will be a work around it? So why have more than ONE thing for the uneducated masses and stop there?
If the person who steals your phone knows someone who could get around WaveSecure, or any other security application. Then that same person can get around ANY AND ALL other types and forms of theft deterrent. If not, they will know someone, ask on forums, etc. UNTIL they gain access.
zaduma
Then why have any security on anything at all?
You my friend make no sense, good day!
jzero88 said:
Then why have any security on anything at all?
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Ok, I will lay it out as simply as I can man. I do not want to argue, but you are missing why this is impossible to accomplish.
The existing security layers can be compromised by lets say... 10% of the population, seeing as most people who are thieves do not talk about it, most people dislike thieves.
So effectively 90% of people will be stopped dead in their tracks by having WaveSecure, etc.
The 10% who are not stopped however, can not be stopped by any means. None. They are the people who read these forums, have technical ability, etc.
Therefore having one layer of security means 90% of people are stopped from using your device. But it has ridiculously diminishing returns. With two layers, say stopping access to recovery, 10% are now stopped. Just boot into download mode and flash with odin. Stop download mode? First of all how? Second of all, there has to be a workaround for people who forget their passwords and stuff. And guess what, those 10% will know about that as well.
So please, address these issues and resolve them somehow, and your idea has merit. Without doing so you are wasting your time.
Also, much to your liking I will assume, I will no longer be posting in this thread due to your constant elevation of flaming.
Any security pro will tell you, if you have physical access to a computer, you can make it usable for you. The only real security you can hope for its to prevent access to your data by the thief. That's what full disk encryption and such is about. For our phones, we could achieve this much with a custom kernel perhaps, but how would you enter the password? No keyboard at that level.
The cellular providers can prevent the stolen phone from getting on their networks, and some do, but that's about as far as it goes.
Its like having a lock on your front door.. Its only going to keep out the honest people... Thats what they are made for, honest people, because dishonest people will just kick the door in.. And the good thieves can pick a dead bolt...
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
I'm starting to think this request/question is for the wrong crowd, truly it is...
If you build it they will hack it... Hands down... Look at the droid x, the unhackable phone, it took 5 weeks..
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
I agree, never did I not. This thread wasn't to debate whether a security measure could be hacked or not, the thread was created to see what we could do to implement such a measure.
I am totally aware of that. I know that if there is a will there is a way.
PERSONALLY, that is something I wouldn't mind having. Though some of you disagree and have a right to your own opinion, that is beyond the point. I am trying to see if a) is it possible. and b) what it would take to do so, and possibly c) if anyone was interested in trying or helping out.
So feel free to express your opinion. Mine is that you can never have enough protection cuz I would never bring a knife to a gun fight. But that's just me...
BTW, those who hacked the unhackable phone I would consider being part of the .01%.
jzero88 said:
I'm starting to think this request/question is for the wrong crowd, truly it is...
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If you mean people that know how things work, I suppose. It's the same problem as drm. When you understand why that's not possible, you will understand this. Read up on jtag as well, you can't protect against that. 90% is about as good as it gets.
So what is everyone's favorite security app of 2011- and why? I know some people think security apps are not necessary. If you feel security apps are not necessary, let us know why. Any security apps that don't work on the 3D? Don't keep that info to yourself! In light of the recent news reports about phone hacking, news about malware in the android market, and criminal activity concerning phones in general, I thought it was a timely subject to discuss. Please don't let the thread devolve into a flamefest! We are better than that!
Edit: I know the poll is kinda big but I made it big on purpose. I had no idea there were this many different security apps out there until I did the research for this poll and I figured I couldn't be the only one so I put em up here so others could find out about them too. If I missed your favorite app, I'm sorry! Just give a shout out for it in the comments!
Lookout is what ive had on my phone since evo4g release date. The guys know their stuff that make it. They were on cnbc special one night showing hacking in open wifi areas.
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA App
Ive used Lookout and SmrtGuard on my 4G. But have not used any on my 3VO as of yet
Mobile Defense is probably the most reliable one I've used, it sucks that they are in limited beta though.
no need for security
NewZJ said:
no need for security
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It's nice to know you can access methods to: remote lock, track, alarm & wipe your phone when its not in your possession anymore.
That whole virus & malware mess (if we can even call it that) is easily avoided with the common sense app, I agree.
As for malware you don't really have to worry about anything atm. HTC has done a god job of patching all of the security holes they all use.
I think htc also may have something built into the phones to track then if they are lost but I doing know as I haven't set it up myself yet.
Sent from my PG86100 using XDA Premium App
xHausx said:
As for malware you don't really have to worry about anything atm. HTC has done a god job of patching all of the security holes they all use.
I think htc also may have something built into the phones to track then if they are lost but I doing know as I haven't set it up myself yet.
Sent from my PG86100 using XDA Premium App
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I think its ties into HTC hub... When I set my account up it said something about "lost or stolen phone" can't confirm for sure but yeah they have something within the phone its self
3D > iClone
Noiro said:
It's nice to know you can access methods to: remote lock, track, alarm & wipe your phone when its not in your possession anymore.
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Yea you can do all of that with HTCSense. com
Sent from my PG86100 using XDA App
I think you need to put AndroidLost on that list. That app is great.
Isn't there a setting in our devices by default that allow you to find a lost or stolen Evo 3D? I haven't played with it and know nothing about it. I just remember disabling it because I heard it sucks your battery down pretty quickly.
Htcsense.com website is the one built into phone... Right now its a huge disappointment as many have reported it not working. It is in beta and when it works 100% it will be a great asset
Sent from my PG86100 using XDA App
I'm curious to see what people recommend for lost phone apps.
robnelle said:
So what is everyone's favorite security app of 2011- and why? I know some people think security apps are not necessary. If you feel security apps are not necessary, let us know why. Any security apps that don't work on the 3D? Don't keep that info to yourself! In light of the recent news reports about phone hacking, news about malware in the android market, and criminal activity concerning phones in general, I thought it was a timely subject to discuss. Please don't let the thread devolve into a flamefest! We are better than that!
Edit: I know the poll is kinda big but I made it big on purpose. I had no idea there were this many different security apps out there until I did the research for this poll and I figured I couldn't be the only one so I put em up here so others could find out about them too. If I missed your favorite app, I'm sorry! Just give a shout out for it in the comments!
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Click to collapse
look out is good tho only reason you would need a anti virus is if u are going crazy with the random apps on the market which have spy ware in them. Linux is pretty much virus free the only way you could get something is if you give it permissions to do so. I never need a anti virus.
Anyone familiar with "Phone Locator Pro" (https://market.android.com/details?id=com.rvo.plpro)? It looks pretty nice, too bad they don't have a trial. :/
I use AegisLab Antivirus Free, the option Appscan is outdated.
Scan is pretty fast and lightweight, and according to author, they will support SD card scan soon.
I got Seekdroid on the amazon app store when it was the free app of the day and it seems to work really well. Plus, the website interface is very good/easy.
I believe they also just released a free "lite" version of the app if any want to check it out.
I was using lookout, but am trying myphone without it to see if it saves any battery..but may end up putting it back on, even if it doesn't work as some say, having that sense of mind that you're phone is "protected" is kinda relieving
Just came out today guys.....tell me what you think.Tektrak works on iOs and android. Can't be removed from phone.Awesome
http://www.androidpolice.com/2011/0...otection-with-ios-for-a-full-family-solution/
Sent from my PG86100 using XDA Premium App
wonder how they stack upto theft aware
I use lookout + lbe privacy guard
Sent from my OC EVO 3D
I'm curious how many actually use an antivirus on there phone and if so which and why I've used lookout and anti-virus free but I'm looking for a battery efficient app that actually does its job properly all the time thanks for any input
My opinion, they're generally worthless, battery killing, problem causing programs.
The only good thing about lookout is the lost phone feature, which can be done with far better apps that are designed just for that.
Sent from my DROID X2 using XDA Premium App
juhde said:
My opinion, they're generally worthless, battery killing, problem causing programs.
The only good thing about lookout is the lost phone feature, which can be done with far better apps that are designed just for that.
Sent from my DROID X2 using XDA Premium App
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Just dont download sketchy stuff
slowz3r said:
Just dont download sketchy stuff
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Seriously. No anti virus will protect you from everything. And I think it is worthless for phones at this time.
Awesome info and since getting the dx2 I haven't had one or felt the need on my fassy I tried others and never felt like it was doing me any good so I was curious I don't feel the need for one other then outside/3rd party apps is there a safe way to work threw those type of apps thanks
The best thing you can do for security is make sure you don't have any networks stored as netgear or linksys because if it finds that network in a public place it will connect to it and someone can packet sniff your passwords
If you are going to connect to a wireless network in an airport, always ask someone what network is the airports, people can set up laptops or cell phones for the purpose of tricking people to connect to them so they can packet sniff you
http://www.blog.jbi.in/security/firesheep-a-packet-sniffer-that-creates-security-nightmare/
Sent from my DROID X2 using XDA App
I used lookout which actually checks each apk to make sure that the should aren't known culprits.
Running a mobile phone with android without anti-virus protection is asking for trouble. Would you run your home machine without it? Android malware has picked up 300% in the last 4-5 months with rootkits and all sorts of nasty things coming down the pipe. Here is a site with some of the more recent stuff listed for androids: http://community.ca.com/blogs/securityadvisor/default.aspx
I've ran lookout, avg, and kaspersky mobile so far and have had 2 instances where lookout and kaspersky reported issues with software upon installing.
A rundown of what's out there and some reviews of them would be wonderful but I haven't come across a site with it yet. If someone else has please chime in...
On my windows machine i have one, on my linux system i don't,, on my android (linux) phone? Not a chance, make sure your permissions are alright, use your head keep a nandroid backup and you don't have to worry
Oh and on your link there the only "scary" thing said specifically that it was for windows based systems
Sent from my DROID X2 using XDA App
PnoT said:
Running a mobile phone with android without anti-virus protection is asking for trouble. Would you run your home machine without it? Android malware has picked up 300% in the last 4-5 months with rootkits and all sorts of nasty things coming down the pipe. Here is a site with some of the more recent stuff listed for androids: http://community.ca.com/blogs/securityadvisor/default.aspx
I've ran lookout, avg, and kaspersky mobile so far and have had 2 instances where lookout and kaspersky reported issues with software upon installing.
A rundown of what's out there and some reviews of them would be wonderful but I haven't come across a site with it yet. If someone else has please chime in...
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If you don't instal shady software, you won't have a problem.
Sent from OH MY GOD IS THAT A SQUIRREL!
juhde said:
If you don't instal shady software, you won't have a problem.
Sent from OH MY GOD IS THAT A SQUIRREL!
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You're seriously naive and have no clue about being security conscious in this day and age.
Google took down a ton of applications from its own appstore because of being infected with malware and then some more later on that contained a rootkit. Did any of those application fit your definition of "shady"?
The world as we know it is not a rosy place to shrug off protecting your investments and hard earned cash. If you chose to be that way then so be it but giving bad advice is not smart.
P.S. I have some swamp land in Florida I'll sell you CHEAP so send me some $$ to my payal account and I can forward you over the details after payment is made.
PnoT said:
You're seriously naive and have no clue about being security conscious in this day and age.
Google took down a ton of applications from its own appstore because of being infected with malware and then some more later on that contained a rootkit. Did any of those application fit your definition of "shady"?
The world as we know it is not a rosy place to shrug off protecting your investments and hard earned cash. If you chose to be that way then so be it but giving bad advice is not smart.
P.S. I have some swamp land in Florida I'll sell you CHEAP so send me some $$ to my payal account and I can forward you over the details after payment is made.
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Click to collapse
You're the naive one, I've been running android for nearly 3 years and never had a single problem, because I don't run around installing crap just because it looks cool. You obviously do since your super cool and necessary anti virus apps have found at least 2 problems in your phone.
Sent from OH MY GOD IS THAT A SQUIRREL!
They Couldn't Hurt My Credit Score If They Took My Information, Actually They Might Improve It For Me.
First of all, android is linux base so there are no viruses known to be around. If you want a battery management, then I suggest using Juice Defender Ultimate.
Sent from my DROID X2 using XDA Premium App
Furioustylez said:
First of all, android is linux base so there are no viruses known to be around.
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ROFL
Edit : that guys other posts are just as hilarious and uninformed
Sent from my DROID X2 using XDA App
I highly recommend LBE Privacy Guard as an extremely useful security tool. It will classify your installed apps in three categories, Untrusted, Trusted, and System. Any app you are unsure of you keep its default Untrusted status, and you can edit it's custom profile to disable any privileges you see fit. Just got a Cartwheel counter app you are unsure of and it requires internet and identity info to install? You simply edit the LBE profile after installing to disable the app's access to internet, etc. Any time an untrusted app tries to use a permission a simple pop-up appears with an allow/disallow. This action can also be set as default for every time the app calls on this function. Very robust, highly recommended, and COMPLETELY FREE.
That said it might not do anything to protect from the more advanced malware that might be out there, but is a great defense for the more simple ones.
Just no. Seriously.
Sent from my DROID X2 using Tapatalk
Furioustylez said:
First of all, android is linux base so there are no viruses known to be around. If you want a battery management, then I suggest using Juice Defender Ultimate.
Sent from my DROID X2 using XDA Premium App
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Click to collapse
That is wrong. There is malware for android because it has become so popular, and it is designed to be simple but it gives the apps more control.
Honestly, I used to use one but since I read ratings and am stingy about what I install, I figure I am fine.
When they say "malware", its referring to apps that steal your personal info. So like I said there before, no viruses for linux base products.
Sent from my DROID X2 using XDA Premium App
Hate to disagree with you but the proper definition of malware is:
mal·ware/ˈmalˌwe(ə)r/
Noun: Software that is intended to damage or disable computers and computer systems.
Now, there most definetely is malware for android. You just have to be conscientious of what you install.
hey people,
i have been reading as of late that cyber crime has been increasingly growing on smartphones. should i install AV protection on my atrix is the question.
what is your opinion?
No.
As long you don't download warez apps - you are safe.
Something I've been wondering about is video files. I get a lot of video files from questionable places and I'm just wondering if these can ever contain anything malicious. Any thoughts?
I use Lookout, if you ever install third party or non-Market apps I would recommend it, although in 14+mo I have only found one app it flagged as malicious as I was trying to install it.
It's a great question to ask.
All my apps come from the Android Market, but I browse the net a lot.
Most of it is normal websites, but I still wonder if and when it will become "necessary". (then again there's always the emails)
Especially since Android is growing, and not all hackers are friendly...
Sent from my MB860 using xda premium
Coming from CrackBerry site where everyone touts BB security and thinks there is someone on every street corner just waiting to hack your phone.. I've wondered this as well. However.. I've yet to read of anyone ever having their financials stolen due to cellphone hackery. Of course.. anything's possible.. but I think as long as your smart about WHAT your downloading and from where.. there shouldn't be any issues. Most of the Trojans out there come direct from China and aren't being plagued in our Market.. yet. At least Google's good about yanking apps that are deemed malicious when they do discover them.
^ The only one that really caught my attention was the wallpaper malware incident a while back.
I'm pretty good at trying to figure out why an app needs permissions, but the average user doesn't care which IMO is kinda scary...
Sent from my GT-I9000 using xda premium
Android security problems are GREEEEEATLY exaggerated. When the media finds one malware app, they start spreading the news all over the internet.
Though, in 99% of cases such app isn't even on the Android market.
Well guess what? Same goes for iPhone - if you jailbreak and install an app outside the iTunes market that contains malware - you get screwed.
So yeah, the only way to get malware is by installing something from an untrustworthy source.
Additionally, you can use an app like Permissions Denied to monitor / retract permissions from untrustworthy apps.... or better yet - just don't install such apps in the first place. There are always alternatives for everything.
Hi Guys,
We know they exist, we get warnings in the news and on internet but I never met anyone who had a virus on his/her phone. And I live in China (Shanghai) with 30 Millions people. I'm starting to wonder if it's really important to have an anti-virus app. Of course wisdom tells me it just need one virus to make it worth. But with all the crazy phone people that are here, there must be someone who had a virus at some point. If so, what kind of virus? How many? And do you think an Anti-virus app is really necessary? Are you using one? Are you wearing condoms?(Whoa forget that last one, too many questions.)
I don't have one for the moment but maybe after reading your comments I'll get one. Will see.
I personally dont use one. Antivirus can (should) detect mallitious apps that might take advantages of user permissions and send sms, call someone or steal personal info without notice. Also almost all antivirus solutions offer anti theft protection (not so useful as it sounds).
My oppinion is that they are not worth the ram ussage if you are not installing free cracked apps from unofficial sources which is the most common place to install malicious app by mistake.
Sent from my GT-I9300 using xda app-developers app
No. I don't have any anti virus apps too. I feel it is unnecessary.
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Using smartphones for 10 years.
never needed oe used an antivirus program (except one occassion, to briefly see its features)
So any of you know someone who had a virus?
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Had once in symbian Commwarrior.A but never installed virus soft.
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I don't think I need one! I don't do online banking from my phone! Other than that It will slow down the phone unless you are not doing something dodgy.
I put an Anti Virus on my first Android phone as I fell for all of the scare tactic bull**** companies give you to download their products, but no, I don't on my S3 and never have. If you ask me and probably half of the XDA members, most Android "viruses" are non existant, and are mentioned to scare you into buying their products (most have a paid version that will "scan better"). As a matter of fact I've researched it quite a bit and only came across 2 legit Android viruses, both of which are from illegally downloading APK files from a non-google site.
So to answer your question, unless you download apps illegally, you're fine. Only Android security I spent money on is Cerberus Anti-Theft, it's really good should you get your phone stolen. The only downside is that you have to either have Data or WiFi on 24/7 so if it does get stolen you can access it from the control panel, but there is sadly no other way. Just make sure if you do spend your hard earned dollars on it that you get Titanium Backup or another equivalent so if you wipe your phone you don't lose it.
blackyz said:
Had once in symbian Commwarrior.A but never installed virus soft.
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2
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Interesting, symbian is not as popular as Android.
What was the virus doing? I mean was it calling people or sending sms to your contact?
no, other that stealing nothign they could do,
but my visa is prepaid and my birthdate is senstive info.
Oh my... of course I have an antivirus app for my phone. In fact I have 10. My phone needs virus protection inception. If I don't have at least 5 antivirus apps on my phone, I won't feel remotely safe.
I typed this by hand.
Techniques said:
I typed this by hand.
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It's ok I can read by eyes.
I've been using avast for about 3 months now, having picked up anything, all about preference tho if you feel safer with it then just get one
I've never had antivirus, it just uses way to much CPU, RAM and unnecessary storage on your device. My phones never played up or messed up. I think its just a money making scheme tbh. It slows your phone down and is definitely not needed
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no, and i think it' not necessary an antivirus
if you know what you do you don't keep virus .... IMHO
Just be careful which apps you're about to downloa - don't install fart-soundsboards for example.
I use Lookout Mobile Security but mainly for the remote locate feature. It's free for up to two active phones in one account (account is tied to your e-mail).
Never had it report a virus though... don't think it hurts and never noticed it slowing down my phone, not even my previous HTC Desire
Eh, I ran Lookout when I first got an Android phone, but I don't think it ever accomplished everything other than introducing a slight delay after installing an application. I do run the JB-compatible version of LBE (which includes a ton of bloat - including an anti-virus), though, as I do like to block permissions, but I'd switch to PDroid in an instant if it were available for TouchWiz ROMs.
i think AV is useless on the phone.
had avast for sometime (got "scared"), other from a little battery drainage didn't feel slower or anything.
removed it to check battery stats without it and just figured it's useless...
as for anti-theft, you get apps that do just that, so no need for AV for anti-theft security.
Depends how confident you are as a smartphone user. If you check your app permissions (or if it is from a reputable enough dev), you shouldn't have any issues. As has been said above, cracked apps are the most dangerous, so be extra careful with those!
Also faik apps can't run hidden on android... so if you are an advanced user you should be able to check with a task manager what apps run in the background. If it isn't running in the background (and isn't your keyboard), then I doubt it can log your keystrokes etc.
So yeah, I don't use one. If phones get powerful enough such that the performance/battery impact is un-noticable, I'd probably install one (as I do on my PC - nod32), even though android is a more closed environment. If you're a noob who installs tons of cracked apps though (p.s. I'm not saying these attributes are necessarily linked lol), then of coure you should use one.