banking Archives

Tech Optimizer

May 21, 2026

‘Only pay for what you truly need’: Avast unveils revolutionary new antivirus platform – industry leading device protection & scam detection, with optional no-log VPN, data breach monitoring, and device cleanup

Avast has launched a new free modular platform called Avast One, which offers free antivirus and scam protection, allowing users to pay only for the features they choose to use. The platform includes a free tier with antivirus protection, scam protection, and web security, and users can add optional modules such as AI agent protection, a no-log VPN, data breach monitoring, and device cleanup. Avast One features a unified dashboard for easy management of security options, and it includes free services like a cleanup tool and BreachGuard for personal information protection. Premium features can be added for enhanced security, including scanning for suspicious emails and banking protection, as well as a VPN with a 60-day free trial.

AppWizard

May 20, 2026

Nationwide banking app update ahead of Fairer Share £100 decision

Beginning Thursday, Nationwide customers can conceal payment references on incoming bank transfers within the app. This feature aims to help prevent abusers from using banking systems to maintain unwanted contact and control over survivors. Domestic abuse charities have raised concerns about payment references being used for harassment, with some abusers sending messages or threats through these references. Nationwide's initiative empowers customers to control what is visible in their accounts. Approximately 4.2 million women in the UK have experienced economic abuse, which can include controlling bank accounts and monitoring financial activity. Nationwide's vulnerability support team assisted 312 customers facing abuse in 2025, an increase from 213 the previous year. The organization has also established “safe spaces” in hundreds of branches for domestic abuse support. Campaigners urge other banks to assess how banking features might be exploited by abusers, and Nationwide is considering extending similar functionalities to Virgin Money customers in the future.

Tech Optimizer

May 19, 2026

Avast Free Antivirus for US users: core features explained

Avast Free Antivirus is a free security application that provides essential malware protection and additional tools for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. It blocks malware and suspicious websites using real-time scanning and integrates with the operating system's security center on Windows. Key features include file shield scanning, web and mail shields, and ransomware-related shields on select platforms. It is available for free download in the US and is popular among home users, families, students, and individual professionals. Avast competes with other antivirus vendors like McAfee and Bitdefender and is often reviewed positively by tech outlets. While it offers core protections, advanced features require paid subscriptions. Users can conduct various types of scans and utilize browser extensions to assess site safety. The software is designed to coexist with Windows built-in security features, but experts advise using additional security measures for online banking and shopping.

Tech Optimizer

May 19, 2026

Norton 360 review: what the security suite adds for US users

Norton 360 is a subscription-based consumer security software suite developed by Norton, a division of Gen Digital, designed for everyday home devices. It includes antivirus protection, VPN capabilities, and privacy tools, catering primarily to the US consumer market. The suite offers features such as malware scanning, spyware detection, and Card Shield for managing payment data. It provides cloud storage and multi-device coverage, making it suitable for personal devices like phones, tablets, and computers. Norton 360 aims to meet the evolving cybersecurity needs of consumers by integrating various protective measures into one cohesive package. It is available through Norton channels and app stores, appealing to a broad global consumer base.

Tech Optimizer

May 19, 2026

Gen Digital stock (US36870C1018): cybersecurity player in focus after latest quarterly results

Gen Digital Inc, headquartered in Tempe, United States, operates in the cybersecurity and consumer digital protection sector. The company primarily generates revenue through subscriptions for its security, identity, and privacy software, with its brands including Norton and Avast. Gen Digital's subscription contracts typically renew annually or multi-yearly, contributing to predictable cash flows. The company has expanded its offerings post-acquisition of Avast, providing services such as antivirus protection, password management, VPN services, and identity monitoring. The majority of Gen Digital's revenue comes from consumer security solutions, with significant contributions from identity theft protection and privacy services. The company sees growth opportunities through cross-selling additional services to existing customers and has a strong presence in the U.S. and developed markets like Western Europe and Japan. Partnerships with device manufacturers and retailers are crucial for customer acquisition. The cybersecurity landscape is evolving, with increasing demand for consumer-focused protection due to rising awareness of identity theft and data breaches. However, Gen Digital faces competition from both paid and free antivirus solutions, requiring continuous innovation. Regulatory developments in data protection laws also impact the industry. Gen Digital employs artificial intelligence and machine learning for threat detection, enhancing its capabilities in response to evolving threats. For U.S. investors, Gen Digital represents an opportunity in consumer cybersecurity, with its stock traded on Nasdaq under the ticker GEN. The company's subscription-based revenue model is closely monitored for cash flow generation and renewal rates, while its performance is influenced by economic conditions and consumer confidence. Investors also consider Gen Digital’s capital allocation strategy, including dividends and share repurchases, which can affect stock performance.

AppWizard

May 18, 2026

Why There’s Simply No Need For Android Antivirus Apps Anymore

Android users are advised to avoid clicking on random links and sideloading applications to maintain safety. Threats such as phishing scams, deceptive pop-ups, and malicious links still exist in the Android ecosystem. Android includes built-in security features like Google Play Protect, which scans applications for malware and alerts users to threats, and Google Safe Browsing, which warns against hazardous websites. Monthly security updates are released to patch vulnerabilities, but the speed of these updates can vary by manufacturer. Users should avoid downloading apps from unverified sources, regularly review app permissions, and install security updates promptly. While antivirus applications can be useful, cultivating smart usage habits is crucial for effective security.

Tech Optimizer

May 17, 2026

Norton 360 explained: features, protection and US use

Norton 360 is a subscription-based security suite developed by Gen Digital, designed to protect various devices, including Windows PCs, Macs, smartphones, and tablets, from threats like malware and phishing attacks. It includes features such as antivirus and anti-malware scanning, a smart firewall, a password manager, a secure VPN, and dark web monitoring. The suite operates quietly in the background, continuously monitoring for malicious behavior. Norton 360 is marketed in the US and available in Europe and Asia-Pacific, targeting households with multiple devices and online accounts. Gen Digital, the company behind Norton 360, is publicly traded on Nasdaq under the ticker GEN.

Tech Optimizer

May 14, 2026

Avast Antivirus: Essential Protection for Devices Worldwide

Avast Antivirus offers a suite of cybersecurity features, including real-time malware defense, phishing protection, and performance optimization for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. It has over 150 million users globally and provides both free and premium plans. The software employs a multi-layered defense strategy, including behavior-based detection and cloud-assisted scanning, and can perform quick and deep scans for malware. Key features include a Wi-Fi Inspector, Software Updater, and mobile protection against harmful applications. Avast blocks over 1.5 billion attacks monthly and offers parental controls in premium plans. It serves users in over 170 countries, particularly in North America and Europe, and operates under Gen Digital, which is publicly traded on Nasdaq.

AppWizard

May 14, 2026

5 Android App Permissions You Should Never Allow

Users should be cautious when granting permissions to applications on Android devices, as extensive access can lead to security vulnerabilities. Apps with accessibility permissions can perform actions like hacking passwords and altering device settings without user consent. Overlay permissions allow apps to display content over others, which can be exploited by malicious apps to trick users into providing sensitive information. Installing apps from unknown sources poses risks to device security and privacy. Usage data access enables apps to monitor user activity, which can be sold to advertisers. Granting access to contacts and SMS can lead to privacy concerns, as this information can be exploited by malicious entities. Users are advised to regularly review and manage app permissions to mitigate potential threats.

AppWizard

May 13, 2026

Android Adds Intrusion Logging for Sophisticated Spyware Forensics

Google introduced a new opt-in feature for Android users called Intrusion Logging, which enhances the analysis of spyware attacks as part of the Advanced Protection Mode. Developed with Amnesty International and Reporters Without Borders, it logs daily device and network activities, including app activity, installations, network connections, file transfers, system certificate modifications, and device lock events. The log data is encrypted and stored securely, accessible only to the device owner. Logs are retained for 12 months and cannot be deleted by users before expiration, though they can be downloaded for offline storage. Intrusion Logging also records network events during Chrome's Incognito mode. This feature is beneficial for high-risk individuals who may be targets of surveillance. Users can access the logs through the Settings app, and the rollout is underway for devices with the Android 16 December update and newer. Additionally, Google announced other privacy and security features, including a verified financial call feature to combat scams, expansion of Live Threat Detection, evaluation of APK files for malware, revocation of accessibility services API access from non-designated apps, and enhancements to Find Hub's Mark as Lost feature. Other updates include improved device recovery options, enhanced privacy controls, introduction of AISeal with pKVM, expansion of Binary Transparency, protection against OTP theft, and strengthening data protection with post-quantum cryptography.