Review by Jerry Saperstein

In theory, Kaspersky Lab Security for Android sounds like a good idea, particularly the ability lock and wipe your device remotely.

However, this app is somewhat disconcerting in the long, long list of permissions it demands. User guidance on the whole is limited both within the program and the Kaspersky website. I wound up having to go their knowledgebase for information on uninstalling from one device and installing on another. The subject is not explicitly addressed, though there are thorough instructions for uninstalling and installing. I guess that you would just uninstall on one device and install on the other, providing the same activation code. I guess Id much rather know for sure in advance of the event.

Many of the advertised features are available only for phones using a SIM card. They don’t mention that on the packaging and you have to hunt a little to find it in the in-program help.

Installation went smoothly. An initial scan indicated no virus or malware issues.

Setting up the remote locate, lock and wipe feature is a hassle and there doesnt appear to be a way to test without essentially destroying your own device. I don’t have faith in something I cant test working when I have a critical need for it. There should be some way to do a dry run. (Since I didn’t activate these features until I could get more information, I don’t know if there is after you activate the anti-theft protection. If there is an ability to dry run, they should mention it, I think.)nn The trouble with a program like this is there is no convenient way for an individual user to know how effective the app actually is. I haven’t found any independent third-party tests.

So overall, I cant say with confidence if Kaspersky Lab Security for Android actually works. Given the companys reputation, I suppose it does, but I think that Kaspersky ought to provide an independent certification of its efficiency.

I didn’t notice any performance issues on the WiFi only tablet I installed it on, but I will keep an eye out.

Will I leave the program installed on the tablet? For a little while at least. But I am really not at all sure of how well the app works and remain a little bit skeptical. I think Kaspersky should work on disclosing more information, such as being totally upfront about some features not working on devices that don’t use a SIM card and should provide fuller and more accessible user help.

Jerry