Antivirus Archives

Tech Optimizer

March 28, 2026

Trend Micro Maximum Security Review 2026: Is It The Best Protection?

Trend Micro offers five distinct subscription versions for online security, including a 12-month subscription to its Maximum Security Suite Pro Plus, which provides multi-device antivirus, anti-scam software, a VPN, and identity theft protection. The pricing starts at AUD for a basic subscription for one device, with additional costs for more devices and features. The tested plan costs 99.95 AUD per year for six devices. Key features include AI-scam detection, a Gamer Mode that pauses notifications during gameplay, and a minimalist user interface. Installation requires separate logins for each program, and the suite supports MacOS, Android, and iOS, though with limited features on Mac. The built-in VPN is developed in-house, and phishing protection is provided via a browser extension. Folder Shield protects against ransomware by securing specific folders. Independent lab tests show mixed results for Trend Micro's performance, particularly in real-time web-threat protection and ransomware defense, with some weaknesses in offline malware detection.

Tech Optimizer

March 27, 2026

Back up and secure your computers with Acronis True Image — now 50% off for a limited time

Acronis is offering a price reduction of up to 50% on its True Image product until April 17, with three plans available: Essentials, Advanced, and Premium. Customers can receive a 30% discount for a single computer and a 50% discount for three or five PCs. Acronis True Image provides full system image backups, continuous antivirus and anti-malware protection, and supports both local and cloud storage options. The product includes built-in ransomware protection and allows for quick restoration of files in case of data loss.

Tech Optimizer

March 27, 2026

Bogus Avast website fakes virus scan, installs Venom Stealer instead

A deceptive website impersonating Avast antivirus tricks users into downloading Venom Stealer malware, which steals passwords, session cookies, and cryptocurrency wallet information. The site conducts a fake virus scan, falsely reporting threats to encourage users to download a malicious file named Avastsystemcleaner.exe. This file mimics legitimate software and operates stealthily, targeting web browsers to harvest credentials and session cookies. It also captures screenshots and sends stolen data to the command-and-control domain app-metrics-cdn[.]com via unencrypted HTTP. The malware employs evasion techniques to avoid detection and is part of a long-standing cybercrime tactic that exploits user trust in security software. Indicators of compromise include the file hash SHA-256: ecbeaa13921dbad8028d29534c3878503f45a82a09cf27857fa4335bd1c9286d, the domain app-metrics-cdn[.]com, and the network indicator 104.21.14.89.

Tech Optimizer

March 26, 2026

Protect your devices from AI scams, malware, and identity theft for under $30 — Norton 360 Premium is ‘the antivirus deal to go for’ in Amazon’s Big Spring Sale

The Norton 360 Premium 2026 one-year pre-paid subscription is available for a reduced price of .99 on Amazon, down from .99. It provides security for up to 10 devices and includes features such as AI-powered scam protection, a VPN for secure internet connections, Dark Web Monitoring for personal information, real-time threat detection, and cloud backup support for up to 75GB. The subscription offers automatic renewal with the option to cancel anytime before renewal.

Tech Optimizer

March 25, 2026

This Norton Deal Makes Premium Cybersecurity Worth It

Norton’s premium suites, traditionally seen as luxury cybersecurity options, are now more accessible due to a recent promotional offer. This package includes antivirus protection, a VPN, a password manager, and dark web monitoring, all in one subscription. It offers real-time protection and simplifies cybersecurity management through a single interface. The VPN protects data on public Wi-Fi, while the password manager enhances security by securely autofilling credentials. The deal allows protection for multiple devices under one subscription. However, it is a paid plan with renewal pricing returning to the original rate, and some features may not be included in every package. The software may consume more system resources than free alternatives, and users seeking basic malware scanning might find the additional tools excessive. The promotion encourages consumers to invest in cohesive cybersecurity solutions rather than relying on free tools.

TrendTechie

March 24, 2026

После национализации прав на Photoshop и Windows госфонд импортозамещения начал торговать варезом с торрент-трекеров

The State Fund for Import Substitution in Critical Industries (GFIs) is selling hacked versions of software from Western vendors that have exited the Russian market, following a 2025 law allowing the state to claim intellectual property rights on foreign software if the original owner ceases operations in Russia. The GFIs requested source codes from companies like Adobe and Microsoft, but these companies did not respond. The GFIs stated they would use "alternative technical means" to supply software, which includes hacking tools available online. Purchases come with a digital certificate claiming legal acquisition, but users report technical issues, especially with antivirus software. Pricing for software is notably high, with a licensed version of WinRAR costing 2,950 rubles and Adobe Photoshop priced at 18,650 rubles per month, lacking cloud functionalities. The Import Substitution Fund has not commented on its pricing strategy but insists on the use of licensed software.

Tech Optimizer

March 21, 2026

Avast VPN: An in-depth review of its speed, security and value

Avast launched its VPN service, Avast Secureline VPN, in 2017, focusing on encryption, a no-logs policy, and DNS leak protection. The company operates outside the 5, 9, or 14 Eyes alliances, which limits data-sharing with intelligence agencies. In January 2020, Avast faced criticism for collecting user data for its subsidiary, Jumpshot, but ceased this practice shortly after. The VPN offers dedicated servers for streaming and torrenting, basic split tunneling, and a kill switch, but lacks comprehensive features compared to competitors. Supported protocols include WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IPsec, with encryption standards generally secure. Avast claims to operate 700 servers across 27 countries, with a limited selection of streaming-optimized servers. The app supports various platforms but lacks support for Linux or routers. Speed tests showed an average download speed of 275.69 Mbps, but performance in unblocking content was disappointing, with limited success on streaming services. Avast's privacy policy indicates extensive data collection, despite claims of addressing past issues. Customer support includes 24/7 access for paying customers. Pricing tiers include a 60-day free trial, with competitive rates but limited features. Pros include decent speeds and reasonable pricing, while cons highlight controversial data practices, limited information, poor streaming performance, and fewer features compared to competitors.

Tech Optimizer

March 20, 2026

Best Free Antivirus in 2026: What You Get (and What You Don’t)

Free antivirus solutions have improved significantly, providing users with protection that was once exclusive to paid software. Major players in the market include Avast, Bitdefender, AVG, and Malwarebytes, each offering distinct features and limitations. While effective against common threats like viruses and malware, these free tools often lack advanced privacy tools and comprehensive security coverage. Avast One Basic offers real-time scanning and basic tools like a VPN and system cleanup, while AVG AntiVirus Free provides a streamlined user experience with a focus on simplicity. Avira Free Security includes additional features such as a basic VPN and privacy management tools, making it a more comprehensive free option. McAfee Free serves as an introduction to its broader ecosystem but lacks depth in protection. Free antivirus tools remain popular due to improved everyday protection, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness, especially for mobile users. They utilize cloud intelligence for better performance and can handle basic security needs. However, they may not suffice for users with high-risk profiles or those needing advanced privacy features. Key criteria for free antivirus solutions include core protection through real-time monitoring, seamless performance, user-friendly interfaces, and additional valuable tools. Limitations include basic protection against emerging threats, intrusive upgrade prompts, slower updates to threat databases, limited support options, and potential privacy trade-offs. Alternatives to free antivirus software include Bitdefender, Surfshark One, Norton 360, Avast Premium Security, and Avira Prime, which offer more robust protection and features.

Winsage

March 20, 2026

Think Windows 11 is annoying? These 4 Windows XP “nightmares” were way worse

Windows XP was launched in 2001 without an active firewall or integrated antivirus, exposing users to malware. The Internet Connection Firewall was included but not enabled by default, and it wasn't activated until Service Pack 2 was released nearly three years later. Microsoft introduced its antivirus solution, Microsoft Security Essentials, in 2009. Internet Explorer 6, included with Windows XP, had significant security vulnerabilities, allowing malware to easily infiltrate systems. The transition from Windows 95/98 to NT caused driver compatibility issues, leading to troubleshooting challenges for users. Network sharing features were unreliable, with many users experiencing difficulties connecting multiple XP PCs and sharing printers. Windows XP reached its refined state with Service Pack 3 in 2008 and ended mainstream support in 2014. Despite this, it continues to be used in some modern applications, such as self-checkout registers.

Tech Optimizer

March 19, 2026

ClickFix Lures Power LeakNet’s Growing Ransomware Attack Chain

The ransomware group LeakNet has evolved its tactics, increasing its average targets from three per month and shifting from purchasing stolen network access to launching its own campaigns. They now use deceptive error screens and a new tool that executes malicious code in a computer's memory. Their strategy includes ClickFix lures, which compromise legitimate websites to display fake security checks, tricking users into executing malicious commands. This method broadens their victim reach and reduces costs. The Deno loader, part of this strategy, collects machine information and retrieves additional malicious code without leaving standard files, making detection difficult. After infiltrating a network, LeakNet checks for active user credentials and uses PsExec for lateral movement, employing Amazon S3 buckets for payload staging and data exfiltration. Defenders are advised to monitor for suspicious behavior rather than just known malicious files, focusing on unusual web commands and unexpected cloud storage connections.