fileless malware

Tech Optimizer
December 24, 2025
In 2025, users must choose between traditional antivirus software and modern endpoint security solutions for their digital safety. Antivirus software has evolved to include machine learning and cloud-based threat analysis, effectively combating various malware types but primarily protects individual devices. It is user-friendly and suitable for casual users but struggles against sophisticated attacks and lacks centralized management. Endpoint security, on the other hand, secures all network-connected devices and employs advanced technologies like AI-driven threat detection and real-time behavioral analytics. It offers proactive monitoring and automated threat responses, making it essential for businesses and professionals handling sensitive information. Endpoint security provides centralized management and a broader range of protections but is typically more expensive and may require technical expertise to set up. The choice between the two solutions depends on individual needs: casual users may prefer antivirus software, while professionals and businesses benefit from the comprehensive protection of endpoint security. As cyber threats become more complex, endpoint security is becoming the standard due to its proactive and automated defense capabilities.
Tech Optimizer
December 3, 2025
Fileless malware operates within a computer's active memory, avoiding detection by traditional antivirus solutions that rely on file scanning. It uses legitimate tools like PowerShell to execute harmful commands without creating files, making it difficult to identify. Cybercriminals can use fileless malware for various malicious activities, including data theft and cryptocurrency mining. Malwarebytes combats fileless attacks through two defense layers: Script Monitoring, which intercepts potentially dangerous scripts at execution, and Command-Line Protection, which scrutinizes command-line tools for suspicious activities. Examples of fileless attacks include malicious email attachments activating PowerShell to download ransomware, hidden JavaScript on websites mining cryptocurrency, and attackers using Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) to create backdoors. Malwarebytes' Fileless Protection operates automatically in the background, ensuring legitimate applications function normally while monitoring for threats. It is part of a comprehensive security framework that includes machine-learning detection and web protection, designed to stop attacks that do not write files. This protection is included with Malwarebytes Premium, aimed at safeguarding personal and small business systems.
Tech Optimizer
October 31, 2025
PC Matic features a whitelisting security model and robust protection against fileless malware, which embeds in legitimate programs to evade detection. It offers various scanning options: full scan, quick scan, selective scan, and scheduled scans, with competitive scan durations. The software is compatible with multiple operating systems, including Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android, although the free version is limited to Windows. Automated updates monitor and install updates for all applications and drivers to enhance security. PC Matic includes a VPN service with AES-256 encryption and a no-logs policy, supporting up to 10 devices. Dark web monitoring alerts users to potential identity theft by scanning for personally identifiable information. It features ad blocking to filter intrusive ads and includes optimization tools like registry cleaning, junk file removal, and performance benchmarks, though these tools are only available for Windows devices.
Tech Optimizer
October 24, 2025
Cryptocurrency has introduced a decentralized approach to financial transactions, but it faces significant security challenges, including vulnerability to cyberattacks, theft, and fraud. Traditional antivirus software has limitations, such as reliance on signature-based detection, which struggles against emerging and polymorphic malware. Behavioral detection methods also have shortcomings, as stealth malware can disguise itself and conditional activation can evade detection. Fileless malware techniques and human error, such as phishing and weak password hygiene, further complicate security. To enhance security, cryptocurrency users should adopt a multi-layered strategy that includes using hardware wallets for offline storage of private keys, implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA), and utilizing dedicated anti-malware tools. Safe browsing habits and regular software patches are also essential, along with securely backing up private keys.
Winsage
October 21, 2025
Many organizations are relying on Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for Microsoft’s Windows 10 as the end-of-life deadline approaches, but this solution is limited and does not protect against zero-day exploits or sophisticated attacks. The ESU program will end in October 2026, leading to increased costs and risks. Legacy systems like Windows 10 are particularly vulnerable to cybercriminals, and even with ESUs, they can be exploited by advanced threats. Transitioning to Windows 11 is complicated for many organizations due to compatibility and hardware issues. Morphisec offers a proactive solution with its Automated Moving Target Defense (AMTD) technology, which continuously alters system memory to protect against attacks without needing updates or patches. The cost of Morphisec is lower than potential expenses from ransomware incidents or ESUs. Organizations face significant risks if they delay action, as seen in past ransomware outbreaks like WannaCry. Unsupported systems can lead to compliance failures and reputational harm. Morphisec provides a way to secure Windows 10 systems while facilitating a smooth migration to Windows 11, ensuring protection across hybrid environments.
Tech Optimizer
October 20, 2025
Surfshark is offering three tiers of plans for Black Friday 2025, including the budget-friendly Surfshark Starter plan at .99 per month and the more feature-rich Surfshark One plan at .19 per month. The Surfshark One plan includes additional features such as Antivirus protection, secure search, and personal data alerts, making it a better value overall. Surfshark One requires an upfront payment of .13 for a two-year subscription, which represents a [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: As the holiday shopping season unfolds, Surfshark is making waves with its enticing Black Friday 2025 offerings. With three distinct tiers of plans available, consumers are presented with a variety of options tailored to their needs. Among these, the Surfshark Starter plan stands out as an attractive budget-friendly choice at just .99 per month, a price that remains unchanged for the Black Friday event. However, while the Starter plan is indeed the most economical, it may not be the most advantageous selection this year. That honor goes to Surfshark One, which enhances the basic offering with additional features such as Antivirus protection, secure search capabilities, and personal data alerts. For only approximately more over a two-year subscription, Surfshark One emerges as a compelling option, especially considering that standalone antivirus solutions typically exceed per month. The numbers tell a compelling story: Surfshark One is priced at .19 per month, amounting to a total upfront payment of .13 for a two-year commitment. This represents a modest savings of [cyberseo_openai model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Rewrite a news story for a business publication, in a calm style with creativity and flair based on text below, making sure it reads like human-written text in a natural way. The article shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. The article shall NOT start from a title. Response language English. Generate HTML-formatted content using tag for a sub-heading. You can use only , , , , and HTML tags if necessary. Text: Black Friday is the ideal time of year to pick up one of the best VPNs, and Surfshark's Black Friday 2025 deal launches today.There are three tiers of Surfshark plans to choose from, so you're spoiled for choice. We rate the first, Surfshark Starter, as the best cheap VPN out there. Its current $1.99 per month price remains in place for Black Friday.However, despite technically being the cheapest Surfshark deal, I don't think it's the best choice this Black Friday.That accolade goes to Surfshark's second tier – Surfshark One. As well as everything you get with the Starter plan, Surfshark One throws in Antivirus, secure search, and personal data alerts.On the two-year plan, it only costs around $5 more overall than Surfshark Starter. Considering standalone antivirus software often costs upwards of $5 per month, getting two years' worth for that price is unmissable.The numbers: Surfshark One costs $2.19 per month, paid upfront at $59.13. This is a two-year subscription, and represents a $0.30-per-month saving when compared to its usual monthly price of $2.49. Generously, three months are thrown in for free as well.Surfshark Starter costs $1.99 per month, paid upfront at $53.73 – although this plan misses out on those excellent extras. Surfshark One leads the way Surfshark has three tiers of plans to choose from this Black Friday. All come with three extra free months and a 30-day money-back guarantee: Right now, Surfshark One is the best value, coming in at $2.19 per month. This is less than $60 all-in for 27 months of protection. Adding Antivirus to your VPN package costs just $0.20 per month ($2.40 extra per year) more than Surfshark Starter – which I think is well worth it.The Antivirus offered by Surfshark is award winning, having been certified as a "TOP PRODUCT" by AV-TEST last year. It scans your device for threats and harmful files, with quick scan and full device scan options available.Surfshark has a large database of threats, and any dangerous code found by a scan is sent for analysis. Botnets and fileless malware is protected against and you can enable real-time protection.Other Surfshark One features include personal data leak alerts plus ad and tracker free search. (Image credit: Surfshark) Despite its price, Surfshark VPN packs a punch. You can protect an unlimited number of devices on one plan and in our latest round of testing it recorded speeds of 848 Mbps – making it one of the fastest VPNs out there.This speed is one of the reasons Surfshark is the best streaming VPN available. In our testing it unblocked everything we threw at it. Its 3,000+ servers worldwide mean all major locations are covered.Alternative ID is Surfshark's most unique feature and is included on all plans. It allows you to generate a dummy online persona, including a fake name, birthday, and address. There's also an email generator to keep your regular emails private.American users have access to Alternative Number, where a fake phone number can be created. It links to your Alternative ID but is a US-exclusive and a paid add-on.Surfshark isn't the most customizable VPN, but its apps are easy-to-use and don't take much getting used to.If you're not interested in Antivirus, and simply want a cheap VPN, then Surfshark Starter includes all the above for $1.99 per month ($53.73 up front pre-tax). For those that want to spend a little more, Surfshark One+ is $4.19 per month ($113.13 up front pre-tax). This plan includes everything offered in previous plans but adds the data removal service, Incogni.Incogni is available for US, UK, EU, Swiss, and Canadian users. It contacts data brokers on your behalf and sends deletion requests, helping you combat spam.All Surfshark plans auto-renew at a higher price once your initial deal has expired. Our research found its price increase was second only to NordVPN – both providers are owned by NordSecurity.Surfshark Starter and Surfshark One both saw a renewal price increase around 230%. Surfshark One+ saw a 149% increase.Whether you subscribe to Surfshark or another provider, we always recommended cancelling your VPN subscription before it auto-renews. You can then re-subscribe at the cheaper price. Today's best Surfshark deals Disclaimer We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example: 1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service). 2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad. We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing." temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" ].30 per month compared to its standard rate of .49. Additionally, customers will receive three complimentary months, making this deal particularly attractive. Surfshark One leads the way All Surfshark plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, ensuring peace of mind for new subscribers. Currently, Surfshark One offers the best value at .19 per month, totaling less than for 27 months of comprehensive protection. The inclusion of award-winning Antivirus software, recognized as a "TOP PRODUCT" by AV-TEST last year, adds significant value. This software not only scans for threats but also offers quick and full device scan options, bolstering your online security. Surfshark's Antivirus boasts a vast database of threats, with any detected harmful code sent for analysis. Users benefit from real-time protection against botnets and fileless malware, along with personal data leak alerts and an ad-free search experience. (Image credit: Surfshark) Despite its competitive pricing, Surfshark VPN delivers impressive performance, allowing users to protect an unlimited number of devices under a single plan. Recent tests revealed remarkable speeds of 848 Mbps, positioning Surfshark among the fastest VPNs available. This speed is a key factor in its reputation as a premier streaming VPN, successfully unblocking a wide range of content across its extensive network of over 3,000 servers worldwide. One of Surfshark's standout features is the Alternative ID, available on all plans. This unique tool allows users to create a fictitious online persona, complete with a fake name, birthday, and address, along with an email generator to maintain privacy. For American users, the service also offers the Alternative Number, which generates a fake phone number linked to the Alternative ID, although this feature is a paid add-on. While Surfshark may not offer the most extensive customization options, its user-friendly apps require minimal adjustment time for new users. For those seeking a straightforward, affordable VPN solution without the added Antivirus features, the Surfshark Starter plan remains available at .99 per month, requiring an upfront payment of .73 before tax. For individuals willing to invest a bit more, Surfshark One+ is offered at .19 per month, totaling 3.13 upfront. This plan encompasses all previous features while adding the data removal service, Incogni, which assists users in contacting data brokers to request the deletion of their information, thereby reducing spam. It is important to note that all Surfshark plans will auto-renew at a higher rate once the initial subscription period concludes. Research indicates that the renewal price increase for Surfshark Starter and Surfshark One is approximately 230%, while Surfshark One+ sees a 149% increase. To maximize savings, it is advisable for subscribers to cancel their VPN service prior to the auto-renewal date and re-subscribe at the lower promotional rate." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"].30 monthly savings compared to its usual price. All plans come with three extra free months and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Surfshark's Antivirus has been recognized as a "TOP PRODUCT" by AV-TEST and offers real-time protection against various threats. The VPN allows protection for an unlimited number of devices and has recorded speeds of 848 Mbps. Surfshark also features an Alternative ID tool for creating a fictitious online persona. The Surfshark One+ plan is available for .19 per month and includes a data removal service called Incogni. All plans will auto-renew at a higher price after the initial subscription period, with increases around 230% for Starter and One plans, and 149% for One+.
Tech Optimizer
September 20, 2025
Ransomware is an increasing threat to organizations, with cybercriminals using advanced techniques like double extortion, supply chain attacks, and AI to bypass defenses. The impact of ransomware includes downtime, data loss, reputational damage, and regulatory fines, making robust protection essential for business continuity. Organizations need a comprehensive strategy that includes prevention, detection, response, and recovery. Key trends in ransomware include: - Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) lowering barriers for attackers. - Double and triple extortion tactics where data is stolen and threatened to be leaked. - Use of AI and machine learning by attackers for phishing and vulnerability identification. - Supply chain attacks targeting vendors to access multiple organizations. - Attackers targeting backups to hinder recovery efforts. The text also provides a comparison of ten ransomware protection solutions in 2025, detailing their features, strengths, and weaknesses. Notable solutions include: 1. CrowdStrike: Strong endpoint protection with real-time visibility and behavioral AI. 2. Zerto: Focuses on rapid recovery with continuous data protection. 3. Acronis: Combines backup and cybersecurity in one solution. 4. Kaspersky: Proven detection and neutralization capabilities. 5. SentinelOne: Autonomous AI for real-time threat response. 6. Bitdefender: Multi-layered protection with low system impact. 7. Norton: User-friendly suite for small businesses and individuals. 8. Arcserve: Unified data protection with immutable backups. 9. Nasuni: Cloud-native global file system with integrated ransomware recovery. 10. Emsisoft: Specialized anti-ransomware tool with strong detection capabilities. Each solution is tailored to different organizational needs, from comprehensive enterprise solutions to specialized tools for smaller businesses.
Tech Optimizer
August 8, 2025
Polymorphic malware is a type of malicious software that can change its code structure while maintaining its core functionality, making it difficult for traditional signature-based antivirus solutions to detect. It uses a mutation engine to create new variants by altering its code through techniques like code obfuscation, encryption, and junk code insertion. There are several categories of polymorphic malware, including polymorphic viruses, trojans, rootkits, and ransomware, each with unique characteristics. Detection of polymorphic malware is challenging due to its ability to evade conventional methods, prompting the use of behavioral analysis and machine learning for identification. To protect against such threats, a multi-layered security approach is recommended, including regular software updates, network segmentation, and employee training. Real-world examples like the Storm Worm and Conficker worm illustrate the significant impact of polymorphic malware, which has caused substantial financial losses. As cybersecurity measures advance, polymorphic malware continues to evolve, incorporating artificial intelligence and machine learning, leading to new challenges for security professionals. Cloud-based security solutions are emerging as effective tools to combat these threats.
Tech Optimizer
July 30, 2025
Cyber threats have evolved significantly in the past five years, introducing AI-driven phishing attacks, fileless malware, and rapid ransomware attacks. Traditional antivirus software is struggling against these advanced threats. Effective strategies for computer security in 2025 include reinforcing systems, implementing robust network defenses, and selecting appropriate security tools. NinjaOne and AnyDesk are highlighted as leading security solutions. NinjaOne focuses on endpoint management and monitoring, featuring built-in BitDefender antivirus and real-time monitoring, while AnyDesk provides secure remote desktop access with military-grade encryption and session recording. Computer virus prevention involves addressing vulnerabilities in system configuration, network defenses, user habits, and outdated software. Key practices include disabling unnecessary services, configuring firewalls, educating users about phishing, and ensuring timely software updates. NinjaOne offers proactive malware protection through behavioral monitoring, automated updates, and instant remote intervention. Pricing starts as low as [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: You are now confronted with cyber threats that were virtually unheard of just five years ago. The landscape has evolved dramatically, introducing AI-driven phishing attacks, fileless malware that exists solely in memory, and ransomware capable of encrypting entire networks in mere moments. This raises an important question: how effective are your five-year-old security measures in this new environment? Traditional antivirus software, once a staple of computer security, now struggles against these advanced cyber threats. Fortunately, there are effective strategies to bolster your defenses and safeguard your systems. Today, we’ll explore how to prevent viruses and malicious code using strategies that are relevant for 2025. You will learn how to reinforce your systems, implement robust network defenses, and select computer security tools that can intercept threats before they can execute. Quick Snapshot: Top Computer Security Solutions for 2025 Among the leading solutions, both NinjaOne and AnyDesk play pivotal roles in enhancing your computer security defenses, albeit in different ways. Here’s a comparative look: NinjaOne AnyDesk Primary Function Endpoint management & monitoring Secure remote desktop access Best For IT teams managing multiple devices Remote support & work-from-home security Malware Protection Built-in BitDefender antivirus, behavioral detection Prevents malware transmission during remote sessions Key Security Features Real-time monitoring, automated patching, USB blocking Military-grade encryption, whitelist access, session recording Starting Price Custom pricing (as low as .50/month for 10,000 endpoints) Free for personal use, €22.90/month for business Free Trial 14 days with full features Free version available, paid plans billed annually Understanding Computer Virus Prevention & System Hardening Computer virus prevention begins with recognizing that malware exploits vulnerabilities in four critical areas: system configuration, network defenses, user habits, and outdated software. System hardening involves proactively closing these security gaps before they can be exploited. Start by disabling unnecessary services and ports. Each running service represents a potential entry point for malware. Turn off file sharing when it’s not needed, disable remote desktop access unless actively in use, and restrict administrator rights from daily user accounts. Next, focus on your network. Configure your firewall to block all incoming connections except those you specifically allow. Employ DNS filtering to prevent access to known malicious sites. Segment your network to contain breaches and enable WPA3 encryption on your Wi-Fi, while also changing default passwords on all network devices. After adjusting device settings, it’s time to modify risky user habits. Educate yourself and your team to recognize phishing attempts. Avoid opening unexpected attachments, even from known contacts, as their accounts may have been compromised. Always verify suspicious requests through a different communication channel. Lastly, ensure that you update your software. Regular updates patch security vulnerabilities that could be exploited by spyware and other threats. Enable automatic updates for your operating system and browsers, and update all software within 48 hours of patch releases, as attackers often target unpatched systems immediately after vulnerabilities become public. NinjaOne: Enterprise-Grade Malware Protection NinjaOne adopts a proactive stance on malware protection, shifting the focus from reactive measures to continuous monitoring of your IT infrastructure. Unlike traditional methods that rely on signature-based detection, NinjaOne employs behavioral monitoring to identify unusual activity patterns indicative of a compromise. Main features of NinjaOne Real-time antivirus protection: Integrated antivirus software powered by BitDefender scans continuously without hindering system performance. Automated software updates: Critical security updates are executed automatically, thwarting attackers before they can exploit vulnerabilities. Comprehensive dashboard: Monitor every device in real-time from a single interface, including running processes and active network connections, while detecting file encryption that signals ransomware attacks. Instant remote intervention: Quickly connect to infected machines to terminate malicious processes and restore normal operations within minutes. Automated security enforcement: Implement computer security standards across all devices, block USB ports to prevent spyware introduction, restrict unauthorized software execution, and quarantine suspicious devices. NinjaOne pricing NinjaOne offers custom pricing tailored to your needs, starting as low as .50 per month for 10,000 endpoints, with rates increasing up to .75 for 50 or fewer endpoints. Pricing may vary based on region and specific requirements. The platform also provides a 14-day free trial with full access to all features, allowing you to evaluate NinjaOne firsthand. Demos are available, but a money-back guarantee is not offered. AnyDesk: Secure Remote Access Without Compromising Security AnyDesk excels in providing secure remote desktop access without introducing new vulnerabilities to your computer security defenses. Utilizing military-grade encryption and stringent authentication protocols, AnyDesk ensures that remote sessions remain secure. Best features of AnyDesk TLS 1.2 encryption: All remote connections employ bank-level encryption, preventing unauthorized intervention and data modification during transmission. Whitelist-only access: Configure AnyDesk to accept connections only from pre-approved device IDs, effectively blocking unauthorized access attempts. Specific access levels can also be granted for each session, minimizing potential damage from compromised accounts. Session recording: AnyDesk’s built-in screen recording tool enables documentation of all remote activities for security audits and compliance, aiding in the detection of suspicious behavior patterns. No cloud relay option: Direct peer-to-peer connections eliminate reliance on cloud servers, reducing the attack surface for sensitive operations. AnyDesk Pricing AnyDesk offers a tiered pricing structure, including a free option. The free tier is limited to one device and includes basic features, making it ideal for personal use or initial testing. The first paid tier starts at .90 per month, covering one licensed user and one outgoing session, with support for up to 100 unattended devices. Pricing can reach as high as .90 per month for 100 users and 1,000 unattended devices, along with additional features such as CLI, mass deployment (MSI), and phone support. For more extensive needs, custom subscriptions can be arranged through customer support. Choosing the Right Anti-Virus Software Modern antivirus solutions must encompass capabilities that were not available when Norton Antivirus first debuted in 1991. Today’s threats are adept at hiding in memory, encrypting files for ransom, and pilfering credentials without triggering conventional virus scans. Effective virus protection now requires a combination of multiple detection methods: signature matching for known threats, behavioral analysis for zero-day attacks, and cloud intelligence that shares threat data globally in real-time. To ensure comprehensive protection, seek antivirus software that includes web protection to block malicious sites before they load, email scanning to catch phishing attempts and infected attachments, and ransomware protection that monitors file changes to thwart encryption attacks. A robust computer security software package should also feature a firewall, password manager, and VPN. Performance impact is a critical consideration; some products can significantly slow down your system, while others operate seamlessly in the background. What are the most dangerous types of viruses in 2025? The most destructive types of malware in 2025 extend far beyond traditional computer viruses that merely replicate themselves. Today’s threats are engineered to steal money, dismantle businesses, and compromise national infrastructure. Ransomware: This is arguably the most financially devastating threat. Ransomware attacks steal data, encrypt files, and threaten to publish sensitive information unless a ransom is paid. Recovery costs average million per incident, according to IBM's 2024 security report, excluding downtime and reputational damage. Fileless malware: This type of malware resides in your computer's memory, leaving no trace and evading traditional antivirus scans that search for malicious files. Info-stealers: These stealthy programs monitor your activities and harvest sensitive information, such as passwords and cryptocurrency wallet details, while remaining undetected. AI-powered malware: The latest threat category employs machine learning to evade detection, tailor attacks for specific targets, and autonomously generate new malicious code. They adapt their tactics in real-time, making them exceptionally challenging to combat with conventional protection methods." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"].50 per month for 10,000 endpoints, with a 14-day free trial available. AnyDesk uses TLS 1.2 encryption for secure remote connections and allows whitelist-only access. Its pricing includes a free tier for personal use and starts at .90 per month for business use. Modern antivirus solutions must combine signature matching, behavioral analysis, and cloud intelligence to combat sophisticated threats. Effective antivirus software should also include web protection, email scanning, and ransomware protection. The most dangerous types of malware in 2025 include ransomware, fileless malware, info-stealers, and AI-powered malware, which are designed to steal money, dismantle businesses, and compromise infrastructure. Ransomware recovery costs average over million per incident, excluding downtime and reputational damage.
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