anti-malware Archives

Tech Optimizer

January 30, 2026

NordVPN blocks 92% malicious sites in independent phishing test

NordVPN successfully blocked 92% of phishing websites in an evaluation by AV-Comparatives, highlighting the effectiveness of its anti-malware tool, Threat Protection Pro. The assessment, conducted from January 7 to January 19, 2026, analyzed 250 phishing URLs, with NordVPN's Threat Protection Pro ranking fourth among tested products. The tool is designed to protect users from various online threats and operates at the network level, scanning traffic directly on the user's device. Threat Protection Pro is available to higher-tier subscribers on the Plus, Complete, and Ultra plans, and is compatible with Windows and macOS. Despite slipping from previous podium finishes, Threat Protection Pro has consistently ranked high in evaluations and was the first VPN service to receive AV-Comparatives' approval for anti-phishing protection in 2024. It also received accolades from AV-TEST and West Coast Labs for its phishing detection capabilities.

Tech Optimizer

January 18, 2026

The best malware removal software of 2026: Expert tested and reviewed

Cybercriminals use various tactics to infiltrate devices and accounts, spreading malware that can affect PCs, mobile devices, and smart home products. Signs of infection may include increased power consumption, unwanted pop-ups, and sluggish performance, while some malware operates stealthily. Default operating system protections are improving, and users can take proactive measures like installing malware removal applications. Bitdefender Antivirus Plus is recommended for its real-time and on-demand scanning capabilities, effective malware detection, and cost-effective plans starting at a certain price per year. It includes features such as anti-phishing, anti-tracking, and a VPN, although the VPN has a daily traffic limit. Malwarebytes is another strong option, effective against various threats and offering a user-friendly interface, with paid plans starting at a certain price per year. Avast One Essential provides a free antivirus solution with strong scanning capabilities and additional security features, while ESET offers high-quality antivirus scans but lacks a fully free version beyond a trial. Emsisoft Emergency Kit is a portable scanning tool that operates from a USB drive and is free for personal use. Bitdefender Antivirus Plus features include: - On-access and on-demand scanning - Live customer support - Anti-phishing and anti-tracking features - VPN - Scam protection - Ransomware combat capabilities Malwarebytes features include: - On-access, scheduled, and on-demand scanning - Browser Guard extension - VPN - Multi-platform compatibility - Free or paid options - Scam and ad blocker Avast One Essential features include: - On-access, scheduled, and on-demand scanning - Multi-platform compatibility - Free or paid options - Strong antivirus scores - Anti-scam guidance - Ransomware protection - Cleanup options ESET Home Security Essential features include: - On-access and on-demand scanning - Real-time protection for financial transactions - Advanced security features - Multi-platform compatibility - Anti-phishing capabilities - Live customer support Emsisoft Emergency Kit features include: - On-demand scanning - Portable operation from a USB - Compatible with Windows - Free for personal use

Tech Optimizer

January 7, 2026

List of Android Antivirus Software

TraceX Guard is developed by TraceX Labs and provides comprehensive protection against mobile threats such as viruses, spyware, ransomware, and phishing links, utilizing AI-powered threat detection and real-time security monitoring. Avast Antivirus, created by Avast Software, offers malware scanning, real-time threat detection, app locking, Wi-Fi security checks, and privacy protection tools, making it popular among Android users. AVG AntiVirus, developed by AVG Technologies, includes malware protection, app scanning, performance optimization, and privacy features, sharing core technology with Avast. Malwarebytes is an anti-malware solution for Android that detects and removes malware, adware, ransomware, and potentially unwanted programs, focusing on privacy protection and safe browsing.

Tech Optimizer

December 20, 2025

Identity Theft Protection vs. Antivirus: Where to Spend First

Antivirus software and identity protection services serve different purposes in digital security. Antivirus software protects devices from malware, offering real-time protection and scans, but it does not monitor personal information or financial accounts outside the device. In contrast, identity theft protection services monitor personal information like Social Security numbers and financial accounts, alerting users to potential identity theft and providing recovery assistance. The choice between these services depends on individual circumstances, with antivirus software recommended for device security and identity monitoring prioritized for those concerned about identity theft. Free strategies to enhance security include using free antivirus software, strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and regular updates to devices and software.

Tech Optimizer

November 29, 2025

This Black Friday deal will protect 10 devices from malware for just $4 a month

Norton is offering significant discounts on its antivirus software, particularly Norton Premium, which is available at a 68% discount for Black Friday. Norton Premium provides protection for up to 10 devices and includes features such as a VPN, parental controls, a password manager, dark web monitoring, and scam protection. In independent tests, Norton scored 6 out of 6 in the AV Test and achieved a 99.96% malware detection rate in the AV Comparatives Protection Test. The software is tailored to meet diverse user needs and includes robust anti-malware capabilities.

Tech Optimizer

November 28, 2025

Don’t wait! Our favorite antivirus software is 75% off during Black Friday

Norton is offering a 75% discount on its antivirus software, Norton 360 Deluxe, which is currently priced at .99 annually for coverage across five devices. This software includes features such as real-time malware protection, a VPN, parental controls, and a password manager. Norton received a perfect score of 6 out of 6 in the AV Test's January/February 2025 report and a 99.96% detection rate for malware in the AV Comparatives March 2025 Protection Test. Additionally, Norton 360 Deluxe scans the dark web for personal information and includes a Safe Search feature.

Winsage

November 27, 2025

Windows Dev Drives are the speed upgrade you’re not using

Dev Drives are virtual drives introduced in the Windows 11 version 22H2 update, designed specifically for software development. They can be created as partitions on physical drives or as virtual hard drives (VHDs) and use the ReFS file system instead of NTFS. This allows them to bypass continuous malware checks by Microsoft Defender, resulting in performance improvements of up to 41%. Dev Drives are intended for developers engaged in data-intensive tasks, but storing non-development files on them poses security risks. They can enhance workflow efficiency for developers and are accessible through the Settings app in Windows 11.

Tech Optimizer

November 17, 2025

EVALUSION Campaign Using ClickFix Technique to deploy Amatera Stealer and NetSupport RAT

In November 2025, a sophisticated malware campaign emerged, combining social engineering with advanced data theft tools. The attack begins with a tactic called ClickFix, where users are tricked into executing commands in the Windows Run window, leading to the installation of Amatera Stealer, which extracts sensitive information from browsers, cryptocurrency wallets, and password managers. Following this, attackers deploy NetSupport RAT for remote access to the compromised computer. Amatera Stealer employs advanced evasion techniques, including obfuscated PowerShell code and XOR encryption to mislead security efforts. It was originally marketed as ACR Stealer by a group named SheldIO. The infection process starts with a .NET-based downloader that retrieves payloads encrypted with RC2 from platforms like MediaFire. This downloader is packed with Agile.net, complicating analysis for cybersecurity teams. The malware disables AMSI by overwriting the "AmsiScanBuffer" string in memory, neutralizing Windows' security scanning. Amatera communicates with command servers through encrypted channels, using AES-256-CBC for traffic encryption, making inspection difficult. It aggregates stolen data into zip files and sends them to criminal servers, selectively executing additional payloads targeting high-value assets.

AppWizard

November 17, 2025

‘Unremovable Israeli spyware’ on your Samsung phone? Here’s what the controversy is all about

Samsung is facing controversy over a pre-installed application called AppCloud on its budget devices, particularly in the Galaxy A, M, and F series. AppCloud recommends popular third-party applications during setup or updates, but many users consider it bloatware due to its inability to be uninstalled. The app is associated with ironSource, a company owned by Unity, which has raised concerns about potential data harvesting and surveillance, particularly in regions like Africa, the Middle East, and India. A social media post characterized AppCloud as “unremovable Israeli spyware,” referencing an analysis by the digital rights organization SMEX. The app operates with system app permissions, complicating removal for average users. IronSource has a history of bundling applications that have been criticized for monetization without user consent. While claims about AppCloud's spying capabilities are unverified, the app's presence and removal difficulties have unsettled users, leading to speculation that Samsung may eventually allow users to uninstall or disable it.

Tech Optimizer

November 5, 2025

Oh no, 73% of Americans think their antivirus alone keeps them safe on public WiFi

A survey by NordVPN found that 73% of Americans incorrectly believe antivirus software alone is enough to protect information on public WiFi, highlighting a misunderstanding of cybersecurity tools. Many respondents also mistakenly think antivirus software can prevent identity theft and phishing attempts. Nearly 33% of participants rely solely on "safe behavior" for online security without using any cybersecurity tools. Additionally, 48% of Americans reported that their personal data has been leaked at some point. The survey sampled individuals aged 18 to 74 from September 2 to September 10, 2025.