Mastering Digital Safety: 5 Apps for Identity Protection and Online Security

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Cyber threats, identity theft, and data breaches are all too common to forget about them. One of the most effective ways to protect yourself is through apps for identity protection and online security. We will explore five top apps that protect users against digital threats. They not only secure your identity but also serve as a phone tracker by phone number, password manager, and more. With so many options available, you can choose something that meets your needs perfectly.

A woman is browsing the web on her laptop while being protected from viruses and malware.

Quick Summary of Main Features

  • Number Tracker is ideal if you need both location tracking and identity protection. It works greatly for families, caregivers, and individuals concerned about privacy and safety.
  • ID Shield offers a budget-friendly option with comprehensive identity theft protection. It includes insurance, credit monitoring, and private investigator services. It’s great for cost-conscious users.
  • NordProtect is suited for privacy-focused users who want a complete cybersecurity suite. It unites VPN services, dark web scanning, and $1 million identity theft insurance.
  • Norton LifeLock provides integration of antivirus protection with identity monitoring. Ideal option for users seeking digital defense across all devices.
  • Avast Mobile Security is perfect for mobile-first users relying on Android devices. It offers malware detection, phishing protection, and anti-theft features.

1. Number Tracker: All-in-One Identity Protection Offline and Online

Best for: Families, caregivers, and individuals seeking location tracking with identity protection

Number Tracker is an all-in-one security app, generally one of the best options available. It combines real-time location tracking with advanced identity protection features. From families keeping track of children’s whereabouts to individuals monitoring their online security, Number Tracker offers everything to protect you both online and offline.

Key Features:

  • Advanced Location Tracking: Number Tracker uses GPS, network triangulation, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth, to offer precise real-time location updates. This ensures accurate tracking, even in low-signal areas and on the move.
  • Identity Protection: The app continuously monitors online databases and other sources to detect any potential breaches of your personal information. Users are alerted immediately if their data is compromised. Over 127,000 identity alerts issued each week to its 2 million+ users and solved successfully.
  • Cyber Threat Defense: The app uses end-to-end encryption to safeguard sensitive data during transmission. It protects you against cyber threats like phishing, malware, and data breaches.

Use Cases:

  • Family Safety: Parents can easily monitor their children’s locations. Additionally, elderly family members can be monitored for safety. The app sends notifications if they stray from their usual routes or appear to be lost.
  • Identity Monitoring: Users are immediately alerted if their personal data leaks. 
  • Travel Convenience: Number Tracker is ideal for families who want to stay connected while traveling. If you’re coordinating with relatives or ensuring that your teenager reaches their destination safely, this app helps track locations with ease.

Why It Stands Out:

Number Tracker gives a rare combination of location tracking and identity protection. Many apps specialize in one or the other, Number Tracker excels at both. Its intuitive, user-friendly interface is accessible to people of all ages, from tech-savvy teens to older adults.

A person shares their location while driving across the city.

2. ID Shield: Budget-Friendly with High Coverage

Best for: Cost-conscious users seeking robust protection

For users looking for a budget-friendly identity protection app that doesn’t skimp on coverage, ID Shield is an excellent choice. It comes at a lower price point than some other apps but turns out to be surprisingly comprehensive. You’ll find a full range of protection from identity theft, fraud, and other cyber threats.

Key Features:

  • Identity Theft Insurance: Even the basic ID Shield plan includes a $3 million policy that covers the costs of recovering from identity theft. 
  • Social Media and Public Records Monitoring: ID Shield monitors social media platforms and public records for signs of impersonation or other fraudulent activity. This feature helps detect any potential attempts to steal your identity or misuse your personal information online.
  • Licensed Private Investigators: If your identity is compromised, ID Shield provides access to licensed private investigators who will assist in recovery.
  • VPN and Cybersecurity Tools: As an added bonus, ID Shield offers a VPN and cybersecurity tools that further protect users’ data while browsing the internet.

Why It Stands Out:

ID Shield provides a combination of high-quality protection at a budget-friendly price. It is an ideal option for comprehensive identity theft protection without breaking the bank. Identity theft insurance and private investigator support makes it a top choice also.

3. NordProtect: Cybersecurity Meets Identity Monitoring

Best for: Users prioritizing privacy (from NordVPN’s creators)

Created by the same team behind trusted and known NordVPN, NordProtect combines privacy tools with identity monitoring features to deliver a full security package.

Key Features:

  • Dark Web Scans: NordProtect scans the dark web for any sign of your personal data being sold or shared illegally. This proactive approach helps detect identity theft early, before significant damage occurs.
  • $1M Insurance for Stolen Data: If data breach happens, NordProtect provides users with up to $1 million in insurance to cover the financial fallout from identity theft.
  • Bundled VPN and Password Management: The NordProtect pack includes NordVPN to encrypt your internet connection and NordPass to manage and store passwords securely.
  • Cyber Extortion Support: For users facing ransomware or other forms of cyber extortion, NordProtect offers support and resources to mitigate the impact of these threats.

Why It Stands Out:

NordProtect offers both privacy protection and identity monitoring, backed by the reputation of NordVPN. 

4. Norton LifeLock: Proven Digital Defense

Best for: Seamless integration with antivirus

Known for its antivirus software, Norton has expanded its offerings to LifeLock, identity protection solutions. This app combines Norton’s security tools with advanced identity monitoring.

Key Features:

  • Norton 360 Antivirus for Malware Protection: Norton LifeLock integrates the renowned Norton 360 antivirus software, which protects your devices from malware, viruses, and other threats.
  • Credit Monitoring from All Three Bureaus: LifeLock offers credit monitoring from all three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. This allows users to monitor any changes to their credit reports to detect fraud early
  • Real-Time Alerts for Suspicious Transactions: LifeLock provides near real-time alerts whenever suspicious financial transactions occur. From unauthorized charges to your credit card to potentially fraudulent account openings, these alerts allow you to respond quickly and prevent further damage.
  • $1 Million Identity Theft Insurance: For peace of mind, Norton LifeLock provides up to $1 million in identity theft insurance. If your identity is stolen, this insurance helps cover the costs of restoring your identity, including legal fees, lost wages, and other expenses.

Why It Stands Out:

Norton LifeLock’s provides integration of identity protection with antivirus and other security tools. For users who need both device protection and identity monitoring in one seamless package, LifeLock is a compelling option. Additionally, LifeLock’s long-standing reputation in the cybersecurity field makes it a reliable choice for comprehensive digital protection.

5. Avast Mobile Security (CSA-Recommended)

Best for: Mobile-first users

Avast Mobile Security offers a comprehensive suite of security features for Android users. It is an excellent choice for protection against malware, phishing attempts, and other online threats. Endorsed by Singapore’s Cyber Security Agency (CSA), Avast Mobile Security is widely regarded as one of the most reliable mobile security apps. 

Key Features:

  • Malware and Phishing Detection for Android: Avast Mobile Security uses advanced algorithms to detect and block malware, viruses, and phishing attempts on your mobile device. It scans apps and websites in real-time, alerting you to potential threats before they cause harm.
  • Network Security Tools: Avast includes network security tools that protect you from unsafe Wi-Fi networks. This feature is crucial for users who often connect to public Wi-Fi hotspots, as these networks are often insecure and vulnerable to attacks.
  • App Lock and Anti-Theft Features: Avast includes an app lock feature to secure sensitive apps with a PIN or fingerprint. Additionally, the app offers anti-theft features, such as remotely locking your phone or wiping its data if it’s lost or stolen.
  • Free Tier with Essential Protections: If you are looking for basic mobile protection without paying, Avast Mobile Security offers a free version. This free tier includes malware detection, Wi-Fi security, and app locking features.

Why It Stands Out:

Avast Mobile Security is valuable for Android users who want reliable protection. The app’s endorsement by the CSA and its high user ratings further solidify its reputation as one of the top mobile security apps available.

With so many cybersecurity apps available, you can choose a perfect one easily. Take care of your data and your loved ones’ safety with ease!