Microsoft Defender Added To Android And iOS Devices For Security Reasons

Microsoft is drawing people's intention while introducing its default antivirus software to Windows, which is Microsoft Defender to smartphones with the aim of helping Apple and Google fight malware by its demo mobile security planned at the next RSA Conference. 

As reported by CNBC, in spite of Microsoft’s ceasing to partake in the smartphone market by killing off Windows 10 Mobile in 2017, it has still been a big name in the space when its popular Office was installed on iOS and Android, along with Minecraft mobile version. 

In fact, malicious software on smartphones is not so common as that in PC, but Rob Lefferts - Microsoft corporate vice president claimed that the problem could still occur on Apple and Google platforms. 

According to a recent report, Defender software, whose precursor is Windows Defender, is not made to perform the task of a conventional anti-malware program. Microsoft opines that it should be more of the software made to discourage people from visiting network sites that are listed on the company’s blacklist.  

Microsoft Defender ATP, which stands for Advanced Threat Protection, is now available on macOS and on Linux in the near future. Microsoft admits that Linux support requires a long-requested feature; therefore, developers can try the demo version today. 

This development is included in Microsoft’s broader Microsoft 365 strategy. No matter what platform you are using, you can use Microsoft’s service at ease. That is the reason why big names like macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS are the targeted customers of this company. And this time, it is focusing on cybersecurity because it thinks itself is placed in a higher position than others providing the same service.  

Regarding the Defender on iOS and Android, it is still not obvious what those solutions will perform their tasks. Everyone who gets acquainted with iOS is aware of the existence of some limitations, so the possibility is that the Defender can request users to use Microsoft services like Outlook to fulfill its duty. We will have to wait for a full version at the end of the year to exactly know how it operates.