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Clario vs Certo

In 2023, over 438,000 malware installation packages were detected on mobile devices worldwide. And the numbers are still rising. You need anti-spyware software, and you need it fast. But which one should you pick? In this article, we’ll compare two popular options—Clario Anti Spy vs Certo AntiSpy—and help you make an informed decision between them. Or simply secure your phone with Clario Anti Spy now.

Table of contents

Clario Anti Spy review

Clario Anti Spy is simple and effective security software designed to protect your device from various digital threats like malware, spyware, and phishing attacks. Developed by expert cybersecurity professionals, Clario Anti Spy safeguards your passwords, location, contact list, photos, and videos from unauthorized access.

 

If your phone is compromised, Clario Anti Spy helps you find and remove hidden apps, monitor and fix external data breaches, and spoof your location to keep your privacy intact.

 

Clario Anti Spy is also ranked among the best spyware detectors for Android and iOS.

1. Clario features and tools

Clario Anti Spy offers a full range of useful security features to protect your phone and personal information. These include spyware detection, breach monitoring, and root checks.

 

Here’s a detailed look at Clario Anti Spy’s features and how to use them:

Spyware detection

Clario scans your device for hidden spyware and alerts you if any are found. It also identifies suspicious app permissions (even for legitimate apps) and helps you get rid of them.

 

Clario Anti Spy spyware detection feature also works for common parental control apps that are considered “legal.”

Note

For more information on the legality of spy apps, check out our article: Are spy apps illegal?

How to use Clario Anti Spy’s Spyware scan:

  1. Download Clario Anti Spy from the App Store or Google Play.
  2. Create an account.
  3. Select Spyware Scan from the main menu.
  4. Start the scan and follow the prompts to remove any detected spyware.
Clario Anti Spy app showing the 'Spyware scan' feature screen for running a deep scan, and instructions on how to perform a deep scan in our Clario vs Certo review.
Steps 3-4: Select Spyware scan on Clario Anti Spy > Start the scan and remove spyware.

Safe browsing

Clario also protects you from online cyberattacks with an ad blocker, tracking blocker, and phishing protection. This feature works as a Chrome extension on Mac, and it is built-in on Windows.

 

To avoid phishing attacks on your computer, use Clario Anti Spy’s Safe browsing feature:

  1. Download and install Clario Anti Spy on your PC or Mac.
  2. Click Safe browsing.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions on how to install the Chrome or Safari extension.
  4. Hit Enable.
  5. Enjoy the phishing-free internet experience!
Clario Anti Spy app on a computer showing the 'Safe browsing' feature with a prompt to install the Clario Anti Spy Safe browsing Chrome extension for ad-free and secu
Step 2-4: Download and install Clario Anti Spy > Click Safe browsing > Install the Chrome or Safari extension > Tap Enable

Data breach monitor

Clario Anti Spy’s data breach monitor keeps an eye on your online accounts, and lets you know if your data has been leaked on the internet. This 24/7 monitoring feature is available on both mobile and desktop platforms.

 

Here’s how to set up Clario Anti Spy’s data breach monitor:

  1. Open Clario Anti Spy and select Data breach monitor.
  2. Enter the email address you want to monitor.
  3. The app scans for breaches and shows the results.
  4. Follow the prompt to fix the breaches and mark them as fixed in the app.
  5. Add new emails to scan.
Clario Anti Spy app showing the 'Data breach monitor' feature, with screens for entering and scanning email addresses for breaches and confirming email safety.
Steps 1-4: Open Clario Anti Spy > Select Data breach monitor > Enter email address > Scan for breaches > Fix and mark breaches as fixed.

Operating system check

Another great Clario Anti Spy feature is the OS check. The OS checker scans our operating system to ensure it’s up-to-date, and if it isn’t, Clario suggests necessary updates and security fixes.

 

Follow these steps to use Clario’s Device system check:

  1. Open Clario Anti Spy and select Operating system check.
  2. The app will check your system and recommend necessary updates.
Instructions on how to open Clario Anti Spy, select Operating system check, and follow recommendations for updates in the Clario vs Certo comparison article.
Step 1-2: Open Clario Anti Spy > Select Operating system check > Follow recommendations for updates.

Jailbreak and root detector

Clario antivirus app scans your devices for signs of jailbreaking (on iOS) and rooting (on Android). Once it finds any unauthorized security bypasses, it’ll alert you and show you how to fix it.

 

This is how to use Clario Anti Spy’s jailbreak and root detector:

  1. Download Clario Anti Spy and create an account.
  2. Select Device system check within the app.
  3. Clario Anti Spy scans your device for any signs of rooting or tampering and shows you how to fix it.

Virtual location tool

Clario Anti Spy virtual location feature lets you mask your real GPS location as you use your device. Simply pick a random location (coffee shop, carnival, or wilderness), and you’ll be hidden from malicious actors spying on your location.

 

Follow these steps to use Clario Anti Spy’s Virtual location tool:

  1. Download and create a Clario Anti Spy account.
  2. Open the app and click on Virtual location.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to connect your phone to your computer.
  4. Launch the desktop version of Clario Anti Spy.
  5. Click on Virtual location and set your phone into Developer mode as instructed.
  6. Once completed, Clario Anti Spy will display a map where you can choose your virtual location anywhere in the world.
Clario Anti Spy app showing the 'Virtual location' feature with a setup prompt on one screen and instructions on how to set up a virtual location on the other.
Step 2-4: Open the app and click Virtual location > Connect the phone to the computer.
Clario vs Certo: The Clario Anti Spy app on a computer shows the virtual location tool with options to set a new location for a connected iPhone.
Step 4-6: Launch desktop version > Click Virtual location and set Developer mode > Choose virtual location on map.

Unlock catcher

The Unlock catcher feature discreetly captures images of anyone trying to access your phone without permission. These photos are timestamped and stored in a secret folder within your phone.

 

Here’s how to enable Clario Anti Spy’s Unlock catcher:

  1. Download Clario Anti Spy and create an account.
  2. Toggle the Unlock Catcher feature on.
  3. Follow the prompt to grant the necessary permissions.
  4. Check the report regularly to see if anyone has attempted to access your phone without permission.
Clario vs Certo: Clario Anti Spy app dashboard showing the 'Unlock Catcher' feature turned off on one screen and turned on with no intruders caught on another.
Step 2-4: Toggle Unlock Catcher on > Grant necessary permissions > Check report for unauthorized access attempts.

Anti spy setup

The Anti spy setup tool offers a thorough, step-by-step checklist to help you protect your device from possible risks. This feature helps you ensure that all essential security/privacy settings are set correctly, lowering the likelihood of spyware and illegal access.

 

You can launch Clario Anti spy setup in the following steps:

  1. Download and create a Clario Anti Spy account.
  2. Open the app and click on Anti Spy Setup.
  3. Follow the step-by-step checklist.
  4. Ensure you apply all recommended security settings.
Instructions on how to use Clario Anti Spy’s Anti Spy Setup feature as part of the Clario vs Certo comparison.
Step 2-4: Download and install Clario Anti Spy > Open the app and click on Anti Spy Setup > Follow the step-by-step checklist > Ensure all recommended security settings are applied

2. Pricing of Clario

Clario Anti Spy provides a flexible pricing model that fits your security requirements. Starting at $15 a month, a single subscription protects up to three devices, including your Mac/Windows, iPhone, and Android phone.

 

Longer plans can save you up to 45% on a six-month plan ($49.99) or up to 22% off a three-month plan ($11.66/month).

 

Every plan includes all of Clario's sophisticated features, such as spyware detection, data breach monitoring, and 24-hour customer support.

 

Clario also helps you pick the best plan with an easy interactive setup where you:

  • Choose the gadgets you need to protect (phone, tablet, laptop).
  • Pick the things you want to keep the most private, such as your location, online activities, or texts.
  • Inform Clario of any suspicious activity you witness, such as unexpected pop-ups or unusual power drains.

Clario will suggest the best course of action for you based on your responses. This way, you get the right defense at the right cost.

3. Clario anti-spy protection

Clario Anti Spy is well-known for its effective anti-spy security. It has a 9/10 rating on TrustRadius and 4.6 stars on the App Store. Here's why people think it's reliable and how it can help you keep your gadgets safe.

  • Multi-layered protection: Clario Anti Spy scans for recognized spyware apps (such as those on this list of apps that spy on your iPhone), analyzes app behavior, and identifies suspicious activity that may suggest hidden surveillance software.
  • Ad-blocker: It blocks unwanted pop-ups and ads, protecting you from online cyberattacks while also making browsing faster and smoother.
  • Malicious site detection: Clario Anti Spy monitors your browsing activity and alerts you to any potentially dangerous websites.
  • VPN access: Clario includes a VPN, which is useful for accessing restricted areas of the internet.

Clario Anti Spy also offers a user-friendly interface and non-intrusive alerts to help you secure your device. In summary, it blocks unwanted content, detects malicious sites, and keeps your data safe without complicating your life.

4. Clario customer support

Most importantly, Clario Anti Spy provides competent, human, and round-the-clock expert cybersecurity support to assist you in resolving any concerns. Whether it helps with removing hidden apps, securing your mailbox, or dealing with identity theft and account recovery, this feature guarantees that you get professional guidance 24/7/365.

 

To connect with the support team, you can:

  1. Use the Clario Anti Spy Mac app: Click the chat icon at the bottom menu to start a live chat.
  2. Use the Clario Anti Spy mobile app: Tap the "Hey! How can we help?" box at the bottom to initiate a conversation.
  3. Send an email: Contact the team at hello@weareclario.com.
  4. Use the website: Click the violet chat icon in the bottom-right corner to start chatting.
Clario vs Certo: The support page in the Clario app displaying the 24/7 human assistance feature with icons for app, email, and website contact options.
Step 1-4: Open Clario Anti Spy > Click the chat icon >  Describe your issue.

Interesting fact

Clario Anti Spy also has a Facebook community where you can share your story and get help from experts and fellow survivors of tech abuse.

5. What is Clario compatible with

Clario Anti Spy is a multi-platform app that's compatible with:

  • iOS Devices: iPhone and iPod touch (Requires iOS 14.0 or later).
  • Apple Vision: Requires visionOS 1.0 or later.
  • Android Devices: Requires Android 10 and higher.
  • Mac Computers: macOS (Sierra 10.12 or higher, Chrome and Safari).
  • Windows Computers: Chrome browser.

Clario Anti Spy mobile app is powerful enough to identify and remove spyware and harmful APK files. So you can choose which platforms you want to protect. However, to use the Virtual Location feature on your Android device, you must first pair it with the desktop companion software. We highly recommend installing it on your Mac or PC.

6. Clario pros and cons

Clario Anti Spy offers a number of useful tools to safeguard your devices, but it, like any software, it has strengths and flaws. Here is a detailed look at the pros and cons of using Clario Anti Spy:

ProsCons
  • Comprehensive security features including spyware detection, data breach monitoring, and VPN access.
  • User-friendly interface.
  • 24/7/365 customer support.
  • Good at finding spyware on iPhone and Android.
  • Multi-platform compatibility covering iOS, Android, macOS, and Windows.
  • Non-intrusive alerts.
  • Covers up to three devices with one subscription.
  • Full-featured protection with all plans.
  • 14-day money-back guarantee.
  • Premium service with a monthly fee.
  • Requires a desktop app for certain features.
  • No free trial available

Now that we’re done with the Clario Anti Spy review, let’s move on to Certo AntiSpy.

Certo AntiSpy review

Certo AntiSpy is a cybersecurity solution that detects and removes spyware, stalkerware, and other malware from smartphones. It is extremely specialized, focusing mostly on anti-spyware protection.

 

It does, however, provide additional functionality such as keylogger detection, app monitoring alarms, and OS integrity checks. Certo AntiSpy is simple to use and works on both iPhones and Android devices.

1. Features of Certo AntiSpy

Certo AntiSpy provides several anti-spy features, they include:

Spyware detection

Certo AntiSpy's advanced spyware detection system can identify spyware and any malicious bugging software on your device. This feature includes an auto malware scan for regular automatic scanning, privacy audits, and security analysis.

 

How to use Certo AntiSpy spyware detection on Android:

  1. Open Certo AntiSpy.
  2. Go to Dashboard.
  3. Tap Scan.
  4. Once the scan is complete, tap "Remove" next to any detected threats.
The Certo AntiSpy dashboard showing how to use Certo's spyware detection feature in the Clario vs Certo comparison.
Step 1-3: Open the app and select "Scan" > Go to dashboard > Wait for the scan to complete.

Warning

The first spyware scan after installation can take several minutes. If you leave the app running in the background or the screen turns off, the scanning process will stop.

Keylogger detection

Certo detects and removes malicious keyboards (keyloggers) that record everything you type, such as passwords and personal messages. This feature is only available for iPhones.

 

To run keylogger on Certo AntiSpy, you’d have to connect your iPhone to your computer.

 

How to use keylogger detection:

  1. Download Certo AntiSpy to your computer.
  2. Plug in your iPhone and click Scan.
  3. Click Remove next to any threats.

Tracking app identification

Certo AntiSpy app checks which apps have access to your location, microphone, or camera. It alerts you if any known tracking apps are installed, helping you maintain your privacy.

 

How to use Certo AntiSpy’s tracking app identification:

  1. Open Certo AntiSpy on your phone.
  2. On your dashboard, select Scan.
  3. If a tracking app is found, Certo AntiSpy will tell you how to remove it.
Clario vs Certo: Certo AntiSpy app scan results showing '0 Issues found,' with details including no malware, root, tracking apps, or network threats detected.
Step 2-3: Open Certo > On the dashboard, select "Scan" > Follow instructions.

System Adviser

Certo AntiSpy analyzes your operating system for signs of tampering, such as jailbreaking or rooting, which could compromise security. It also checks if your phone is secured with a pin, is encrypted, and has Google Play Protect turned on.

 

How to use Certo AntiSpy system adviser:

  1. Open Certo Anti Spy.
  2. Select System Adviser.
  3. Look at your settings report and fix any issues.
Clario vs Certo: Certo AntiSpy app System Adviser showing details on phone root status, PIN protection, encryption, Google Play Protect, and developer options.
Step 1-3: Open Certo AntiSpy > Select "System Adviser" > Review settings report, and fix issues.

Intruder Detection

Certo AntiSpy's Intruder Detection feature helps you catch anyone trying to access your device without permission. It offers four detection methods to ensure your device stays secure:

  • Movement detection with photo capture
  • Movement detection with alarm
  • Incorrect PIN detection with photo capture
  • Incorrect PIN detection with alarm

How to use Certo AntiSpy’s intruder detection:

  1. Open Certo AntiSpy Mobile Security.
  2. Tap Intruder Detection and choose the desired detection method (Movement or Incorrect PIN).
  3. Activate the feature using the On/Off switch at the top.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up the detection method.
Clario vs Certo: The Certo AntiSpy app shows the menu with the 'Intruder Detection' setup screen, which has options to detect movement or incorrect PIN entry and actions to take a photo or sound an alarm.
Step 1-4: Open Certo Mobile Security > Tap 'Intruder Detection' > Choose detection method and action > Activate and follow the setup.

Note

Using Certo AntiSpy’s Movement detection increases battery drain, so your device needs to be connected to a power source when you use this feature.

Breach Check

Certo AntiSpy can check if your email (and other private info associated with it) is compromised or was involved in a data breach.

 

How to use data breach monitoring:

  1. Open Certo AntiSpy.
  2. Select Breach Check.
  3. Enter your email to scan for breaches and follow the recommendations to protect your accounts.
Clario vs Certo: Certo AntiSpy app showing the menu with 'Breach Check' selected, the Breach Check screen prompting to enter an email address, and your breach results.
Step 1-3: Open Certo AntiSpy > Select "Breach Check" > Enter your email.

2. How much does Certo AntiSpy cost

Certo AntiSpy offers different pricing plans for iPhone and Android, each with different feature combinations. Here’s a simple breakdown.

Certo AntiSpy iPhone pricing plans

Certo mobile securityCerto AntiSpyCerto AntiSpy max
Free$8.99/month$12.99/month
Features: Vulnerability scan, Security health check, WiFi protectionFeatures: Deep can, Spyware detection, Threat removal, Protection for up to 3 devicesFeatures: AntiSpy features, PDF reports, Scan backups, unlimited device protection

Certo AntiSpy Android pricing plans

Basic planPremium plan
Free$1.99/month or $12.99/year
Features: Spyware detection, Privacy audit, System adviserFeatures: Spyware detection, Privacy audit, System adviser, Auto scan, Intruder detection, Breach check

3. Certo’s anti-spy protection

Certo AntiSpy is excellent at identifying and eliminating tracking apps, spyware, and stalkerware. Additionally, it offers physical protection through its intruder detection feature and teaches you fundamental phone security precautions.

 

However, while effective, the initial scanning process can be slow and will pause if the app is running in the background or the screen is turned off. Also, the Android version lacks some of its more sophisticated functions, like the keylogger detector.

4. Certo AntiSpy’s customer support

Besides their knowledge base, Certo AntiSpy offers ticket-based email support. You can access the support form on their contact page.

 

Their typical email response time is usually within 12 hours.

5. What's compatible with Certo AntiSpy?

Certo AntiSpy works on several devices and operating systems. It is compatible with:

  • iPhone and iPad: iOS versions 14.0 or later. Works by connecting your iOS device to a computer.
  • Android devices: Requires Android 7.0 and up.
  • Mac Computers: Compatible with macOS Mojave 10.14 or later.
  • Windows computers: Supports Microsoft Windows 8.1 or later.

Minimum system requirements for Certo AntiSpy:

  • Processor (CPU): 1GHz or faster
  • Memory (RAM): 512MB or more
  • Hard disk: 300MB of available space
  • Display: Graphics card and monitor capable of at least 1024×768 resolution
  • Network: Internet connection required
  • Operating system: Microsoft Windows 8.1 / macOS Mojave 10.14 or later
  • Connectivity: USB port required

6. Advantages and disadvantages of Certo AntiSpy

Certo AntiSpy’s anti-spyware protection has several benefits and some limitations. We’ll look at a few below.

ProsCons
  • Great at identifying and destroying spyware.
  • An easy and intuitive UI.
  • Offers security features such as keylogger detection.
  • Compatible with iOS and Android devices.
  • Comes with a free 7-day trial.
  • Covers three gadgets with a single subscription and unlimited for Certo AntiSpy Max iPhone plan.
  • The scanning procedure may take a while.
  • Initial spyware scan pauses if you leave the mobile app or if the screen turns off.
  • You need to connect your phone to a computer for deep scans.
  • The cool functionalities like Keylogger are iPhone-focused.
  • There can be a 12-hour wait for a support response.
  • Some iOS device capabilities require a USB connection.
  • Does not include other security features like ad blockers, virtual location masking, or VPNs​.
  • Does not protect against malicious websites.

Final comparison

The main difference between Clario and Certo AntiSpy lies in their support and scope of protection. While Certo AntiSpy focuses primarily on safeguarding your device from spyware, Clario Anti Spy offers a broader suite of security features. This means Clario not only protects against spyware but also includes tools for location spoofing, phishing protection, ad blocking, and overall device security.

 

Plus, Clario Anti Spy offers 24/7 human assistance.

 

To help you decide which app best suits your needs, here's a comparison table summarizing all key features and differences between Clario Anti Spy and Certo AntiSpy:

Feature/ProsClario Anti SpyCerto AntiSpy
Detects and removes spyware✔️✔️
Keylogger detection✔️✔️
Tracking app identification✔️✔️
Data breach monitoring✔️✔️
OS integrity check✔️✔️
Auto malware scan✔️
Intruder detection✔️✔️
24/7 human assistance✔️
Multi-platform compatibility (iOS, Android, macOS, Windows)✔️✔️
VPN✔️
Ad blocker✔️
Virtual location masking✔️
Phishing protection✔️
Simple and user-friendly interface✔️✔️
Regular updates✔️✔️
Free trial✔️ (7 days)
Subscription covers multiple devices✔️ (up to 3)✔️ (Unlimited for Certo AntiSpy Max)
Requires computer for deep scans on iOS✔️
Support response timeQuick12 hours
Scanning process speedFastSlow
Protection against malicious websites✔️

In summary, both Clario and Certo offer great protection against spyware. However, Clario Anti Spy provides a more comprehensive suite of security features, including online protection and 24/7 year-round customer support.

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