As the Black Friday shopping frenzy unfolds, consumers are not the only ones seizing the opportunity for savings. VPN providers are stepping into the spotlight with enticing offers, making this an opportune moment for both newcomers and seasoned users to explore their options. VPNs, known for encrypting internet connections and safeguarding users from prying eyes—be it from ISPs or malicious actors on public Wi-Fi—are now bundling additional features that enhance online security.
Among these features are password managers and integrated antivirus solutions. While a bundled antivirus may not match the efficacy of standalone software, many VPNs are including these tools as part of their subscription packages, eliminating the need for extra expenditures.
Surfshark
Surfshark stands out for its impressive value, particularly with its One and One+ subscription plans, which have earned it the second spot in our VPN rankings. Both plans come equipped with Surfshark Antivirus, compatible with Windows, MacOS, and Android devices. This antivirus solution boasts features such as webcam protection, scheduled virus scans, and real-time scanning of applications and downloads, ensuring users remain shielded from spyware and malware.
Additionally, Surfshark’s CleanWeb feature enhances security by blocking ads, trackers, and malware while users are connected to the VPN. This functionality extends to the Surfshark browser extension, which not only blocks ads—including video advertisements—but also prevents website trackers and cookie consent pop-ups. By alerting users to past data leaks and known malware on visited sites, CleanWeb significantly enhances the safety of browsing sessions.
Notably, Surfshark Antivirus has received accolades from AV-Test, achieving a ‘Top Product’ certification in 2024 after successfully blocking 100% of test threats. However, in our evaluations, we found that NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro demonstrated superior effectiveness in identifying and blocking potentially dangerous sites.
This Black Friday, Surfshark continues its tradition of offering remarkable deals. The Starter plan is available for just .99 per month, while the One plan, which includes antivirus features, is priced at .19, and the One+ plan at .19.
Norton VPN
Traditionally recognized for its standalone antivirus solutions, Norton has made significant strides with its VPN product following a recent overhaul. Although it may not yet rank among the best VPNs, it remains a reliable option for those seeking the assurance of a well-established name in cybersecurity.
Norton VPN’s Plus and Ultimate plans incorporate antivirus support that protects against malware and ransomware, along with a new AI-powered Scam Protection feature. This innovative tool alerts users to suspicious texts and fraudulent websites, allowing them to consult the AI in real-time if they suspect a message or email may be a scam.
While Norton VPN may not offer as many protocols as some competitors, it still provides essential features expected from a quality VPN, including obfuscated servers, multi-hop connections, a kill switch, and competitive download speeds that rival some of the top options on the market.
While specific Black Friday deals for Norton VPN have yet to be announced, TechRadar users can take advantage of an exclusive discount. It is important to note that this offer is available only to readers in the US, Canada, the UK, or Australia.
