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Microsoft thinks it could stop this dangerous scam forever
Tech Optimizer
February 2, 2025

Microsoft thinks it could stop this dangerous scam forever

Microsoft has launched a new ‘Scareware blocker’ feature for Edge web browsers on Windows PCs, designed to enhance user protection against tech support scams. This machine learning threat detection software identifies signs of scareware in real-time and aims to reduce the prevalence of such scams, which cost victims millions annually according to the FBI. The technology analyzes new websites and uses a SmartScreen feature for global protection, processing information locally without uploading images to the cloud. When a potential threat is detected, Edge exits full-screen mode, stops aggressive audio playback, and alerts the user. Users can report malicious sites or inaccuracies to improve the model. The feature is available to all Edge users upon updating their browser.
The Best Way to Remove Windows Security Permanently
Tech Optimizer
December 12, 2024

The Best Way to Remove Windows Security Permanently

Microsoft offers Windows Security for Windows 11 and Windows Defender for Windows 10, both providing integrated security solutions focused on virus detection and protection against malware, phishing, and ransomware. Users often consider third-party antivirus options for enhanced protection. Windows Security has drawbacks, including false positives that can lead to the removal of legitimate applications and significant resource consumption affecting performance on older devices. Users contemplating permanent removal of Windows Security may do so for reasons such as preferring third-party solutions with additional features, performance issues, and frustration from false alarms. Before removing Windows Security, users should ensure they have an alternative antivirus solution ready, understand that they will lose automatic updates for threats, and be cautious of improper removal methods that could cause system instability. Methods to disable Windows Security include using the Local Group Policy Editor, modifying the Windows Registry, disabling Tamper Protection, or using the Windows Defender Remover tool available on GitHub. Alternatives to complete removal include adding exclusions for specific files, disabling real-time protection, or installing a third-party antivirus that automatically disables Windows Security.
AV-Comparatives Announces 2024 Phishing Test Results: Avast and McAfee Excel in Yearly Assessment
Tech Optimizer
December 3, 2024

AV-Comparatives Announces 2024 Phishing Test Results: Avast and McAfee Excel in Yearly Assessment

AV-Comparatives conducted an evaluation of phishing protection in 2024, examining 1,000 phishing URLs across four quarterly assessments. Avast and McAfee achieved detection rates of 95%, though McAfee had a higher incidence of false positives. The evaluation included various antivirus programs and web browsers, with Avast leading the final quarterly test with a 95% detection rate on 250 phishing URLs. Other notable performers included Bitdefender, Kaspersky, McAfee, and Trend Micro, with G Data and Kaspersky also scoring above 90%. Phishing remains a significant cyber threat, leading to potential financial losses and identity theft. AV-Comparatives is an independent testing laboratory recognized for its assessments of cybersecurity products.
The Pros And Cons Of Behaviour-Based Antivirus Detection
Tech Optimizer
November 5, 2024

The Pros And Cons Of Behaviour-Based Antivirus Detection

32% of UK businesses experienced cyberattacks at least once a week last year, with an average financial toll of £1,630 per incident. Traditional signature-based antivirus systems struggle to recognize new threats, leading to the emergence of behaviour-based detection systems that monitor real-time application behavior. Behaviour-based detection operates independently of a database and can identify sophisticated threats, but it may generate false alarms, affect device performance, and raise privacy concerns. Most modern antivirus solutions now use a combination of both detection approaches to enhance cybersecurity.
Compare Antivirus Software 2025: Bitdefender vs ESET
Tech Optimizer
October 18, 2024

Compare Antivirus Software 2025: Bitdefender vs ESET

Bitdefender and ESET Antivirus are two prominent antivirus solutions with various features. Bitdefender: - Lowest Annual Price: .99 for the first year; .99 thereafter - Supported Operating Systems: Windows, MacOS, and Android - Maximum Number of Devices Supported: 25 - Firewall: Yes - Malware Detection Rates: 100% - Overall Rating: 3/5 - Pricing: 2/5 - Core Features: 5/5 - Advanced Features & Integrations: 5/5 - Customer Support: 3/5 - Impact on Device Performance: 2/5 - Trustworthiness: 2/5 - Pros: Strong independent testing results, non-intrusive notifications, daily scans - Cons: Can slow down device performance, expensive add-ons, turning off auto-renewal may limit access to features ESET Antivirus: - Lowest Annual Price: .99 - Supported Operating Systems: Windows, MacOS, and Android - Maximum Number of Devices Supported: 10 - Firewall: Yes, at middle and highest pricing tiers - Malware Detection Rates: 100% - Overall Rating: 3.5/5 - Pricing: 2/5 - Core Features: 4/5 - Advanced Features & Integrations: 5/5 - Customer Support: 4/5 - Impact on Device Performance: 2/5 - Trustworthiness: 3/5 - Pros: Customizable Device Control features, high scores in independent testing - Cons: Complex for less technical users, relatively expensive, significant impact on device performance Both solutions offer a free trial of 30 days. While Bitdefender has a slight edge in core and advanced features, ESET excels in customer support. The choice between the two may depend on individual user needs. Alternatives include Microsoft Defender and Malwarebytes.
Android Auto Starts Spamming Users With Scary Alert, Using the App "Feels Dangerous"
AppWizard
May 1, 2024

Android Auto Starts Spamming Users With Scary Alert, Using the App “Feels Dangerous”

Some Android Auto users are receiving false alerts about their smartphones overheating while driving, causing concern and prompting some drivers to pull over to check their devices. The majority of reports involve Samsung smartphones, but the issue has been noted across various models. Google has not officially recognized this glitch, and it remains unresolved in the latest Android Auto builds.
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