identity theft Archives

Tech Optimizer

September 20, 2025

If You’re Afraid of Getting Hacked, This Avast Tool Does More Than Stop Viruses

Avast has over 435 million users globally and is part of Gen Digital, which includes Norton, AVG, and CCleaner. The company has shifted from offering primarily free antivirus solutions to providing comprehensive paid security solutions for PCs, Macs, Androids, and iOS devices. In 2022, over 600 million cyberattacks occurred daily, affecting nearly two billion individuals. Avast Premium Security is available at a 60% discount, securing one device against viruses, ransomware, and phishing attacks, while Avast Ultimate includes additional features like a VPN and device optimization tools, also at a 60% discount.

AppWizard

September 17, 2025

Google just took down 224 malicious apps with 38 million installs from the Play Store — how to stay safe

224 malicious applications have been removed from the Google Play Store due to a significant ad fraud operation named "SlopAds," which amassed over 38 million downloads. The campaign spanned 228 countries, with the highest ad impressions from the United States (30%), India (10%), and Brazil (7%). The apps used sophisticated obfuscation techniques to evade Google’s security measures. Users are advised to uninstall these harmful applications, as they can negatively impact device performance by causing excessive data consumption and battery strain. Users who sideload apps from unofficial sources are particularly vulnerable to such threats. Security experts anticipate that similar ad fraud operations may occur in the future.

Tech Optimizer

September 11, 2025

Best Antivirus (September 2025): Avast Named Top Cybersecurity Software by Software Experts

Avast has been recognized by Software Experts as a leading cybersecurity provider, particularly for its antivirus solutions, including Avast Premium Security and Avast Ultimate. These products have shown exceptional performance across various platforms such as Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. Avast Premium Security offers multi-layered protection against threats like ransomware and phishing, while Avast Ultimate includes additional features like a VPN and anti-tracking technology. In 2024, AV-Test awarded Avast the Best macOS Security Award for Consumer Users, highlighting its perfect scores in protection, performance, and usability. AV-Comparatives recognized Avast as a Top Rated Product 2024 and awarded it the Real World Protection Award, while Virus Bulletin rated it with an A+ for a 99.69 percent detection rate. Avast has over 435 million users globally. The company’s products are designed to protect against various online threats, with features tailored for different operating systems. The latest innovation, Scam Guardian Pro, includes AI-powered tools to combat online fraud. Avast Ultimate combines multiple premium offerings under one subscription for comprehensive digital security.

Tech Optimizer

September 10, 2025

Don’t Let Hackers Win, This 60% Off Solution Keeps Your Identity Safe at All Times

In 2024, there are over 600 million cyberattacks each day, with more than 1.7 billion individuals affected by data breaches in the past year, equating to nearly 54 people targeted every second. Avast is offering significant discounts on its paid cybersecurity solutions, including a 60% discount on the Premium Security package and the Ultimate plan. The Premium Security package covers one device and includes features like virus blocking and ransomware protection, while the Ultimate plan adds a SecureLine VPN, Cleanup Premium, and AntiTrack technology.

Tech Optimizer

September 9, 2025

435 Million Users Protected: Avast Crowned Best Antivirus with Perfect 10/10 Security Score in 2025

Avast has been recognized by Software Experts as a top cybersecurity provider in its report on the best antivirus solutions for consumers and businesses. The recognition highlights Avast Premium Security and Avast Ultimate, which protect users across various platforms including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. Avast Premium Security offers multi-layered protection against threats like ransomware, phishing, and scams, while Avast Ultimate includes additional features such as a VPN, anti-tracking technology, and device cleanup utilities. In 2024, AV-Test awarded Avast the Best macOS Security Award for Consumer Users, achieving perfect scores in protection, performance, and usability. AV-Comparatives named Avast a Top Rated Product 2024 and awarded it a Real World Protection Award. Virus Bulletin granted Avast an A+ grade with a 99.69 percent detection rate and zero false alarms. Avast's Banking Mode was approved by the AV Lab Internet Banking Protection Test for secure online transactions. Avast Premium Security is the most widely adopted antivirus product, designed to defend against various threats while providing privacy and identity safeguards. It features Scam Guardian Pro, an AI-powered tool that protects against online fraud. Avast Ultimate combines four premium solutions under one subscription for up to ten devices, integrating VPN, AntiTrack, and Cleanup Premium for comprehensive digital security. Avast has over 435 million users globally and continues to adapt its solutions to evolving cybersecurity risks, emphasizing the importance of antivirus software in modern computing.

Tech Optimizer

September 8, 2025

ESET review

ESET Home Security offers robust antivirus protection, particularly appealing to budget-conscious consumers. The Premium tier features a gamer mode, parental filters, virus scanning tools, and an antitheft service. However, it lacks a VPN client, which is available in the more expensive ESET Ultimate version. The Premium version is priced lower than competitors like Norton 360 Deluxe and McAfee+ Premium, with costs rising after the first year. ESET Premium provides comprehensive antivirus features, including quick and custom scans, ThreatSense technology, Deep Behavior Inspection, Host Intrusion Protection System (HIPS), and Ransomware Shield. It also offers defenses against botnets and network threats, with quick scans completing in about five minutes. Additional features include a parental filter, password manager, browser protections, file encryption, and an anti-theft system. The user interface has been criticized for being outdated and complex, with limited support options available.

Tech Optimizer

September 3, 2025

Malwarebytes Ultimate

Malwarebytes offers a cybersecurity suite called Malwarebytes Ultimate, which includes antivirus protection, VPN services, and identity theft remediation. The pricing starts at .99 per year for a single device, with higher costs for additional devices. The suite provides coverage for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. The identity theft protection is powered by TransUnion but lacks the extensive features of competitors like Bitdefender and Norton. Malwarebytes Ultimate includes a VPN with over 60 server locations across 34 countries, though it does not cover regions like Africa or certain countries. The VPN features include an automatic activation option and split tunneling. Malwarebytes has received high scores in independent testing for its antivirus capabilities on Android but did not appear in some recent evaluations. The identity theft protection system allows users to monitor personal information and receive alerts if their data is found on the dark web. Users can also track financial transactions for suspicious activity and access resources for identity and credit protection. Malwarebytes provides a dedicated resolution specialist for identity theft cases and offers a personal data removal service.

AppWizard

August 30, 2025

Google’s Android Lockdown: Are You Really In Control Of Your Phone?

On August 25, Google announced a policy change requiring all app developers to verify their identities before their applications can operate on certified Android devices, extending this requirement to all apps, including side-loaded ones. This policy allows Google to prevent users from running disapproved applications, raising concerns about user freedom and control over their devices. Google cites cybersecurity concerns, claiming that side-loaded apps have led to a significant increase in malware. The company aims to collect personal information from developers to enhance user security, despite criticisms regarding the effectiveness of this approach. Data breaches have become increasingly common, with notable incidents affecting millions, and identity theft costs Americans billions annually. The text discusses the potential of cryptography to enhance trust in digital interactions, highlighting technologies like PGP and concepts like webs of trust as solutions to secure identity verification. Alternative app stores and operating systems focused on user privacy are emerging as potential responses to the challenges posed by Google's policy.

Tech Optimizer

August 27, 2025

Do I get a free VPN with my Norton antivirus?

The Norton brand is known for its antivirus protection and includes a Virtual Private Network (VPN) tool in select Norton antivirus packages. The entry-level Norton Antivirus Plus offers essential antivirus protection but does not include a VPN, while the Norton 360 bundle includes the Norton VPN as a core feature. Choosing a Norton 360 bundle is often more economical than purchasing antivirus and VPN services separately and includes additional features like parental controls and dark web monitoring. The Norton 360 plans include: - Norton 360 Standard: Features a password manager, 2GB of cloud backup, SafeCam alerts, AI-powered scam detection, and a smart firewall. - Norton 360 Deluxe: Offers 50GB of cloud storage, dark web monitoring, and parental controls. - Norton 360 with LifeLock: Combines Norton’s security features with LifeLock’s identity protection services, including credit monitoring and a million-dollar protection package. The Norton VPN features include split tunneling, Double VPN, and IP Rotation, and it has shown strong performance in unblocking restricted applications and streaming services while maintaining user-friendly navigation and speed.

AppWizard

August 26, 2025

Dangerous Android banking trojan found lurking in malicious apps with 19 million installs — don’t fall for this

Zscaler’s ThreatLabs team discovered 77 malicious applications on the Google Play Store that accumulated 19 million downloads. These apps, disguised as utilities like PDF readers and flashlight tools, used fake reviews and misleading ads to attract users. Upon installation, they would download a malicious payload, including the Anatsa banking trojan, which overlays fake login screens to steal user credentials. Additionally, the Joker malware was found in 25% of these apps, capable of taking screenshots, accessing device information, and signing users up for premium services without consent. Users are advised to limit app installations, scrutinize reviews, activate Google Play Protect, and consider antivirus applications for enhanced security against malware.