online fraud Archives

AppWizard

October 27, 2025

Meta Launches AI Anti-Scam Tools for WhatsApp and Messenger

Meta Platforms Inc. has launched a suite of anti-scam tools for WhatsApp and Messenger to enhance user security amid increasing online fraud. The company has disrupted over 8 million fake accounts this year. The new features include real-time scam alerts for suspicious messages, advanced AI for identifying scam patterns, and enhanced account security measures like passkey support. User education is also prioritized through in-app resources. These tools integrate across Meta’s platforms, including Facebook and Instagram, with contextual pop-ups for reporting suspicious activity. The initiative coincides with Cybersecurity Awareness Month and aims to address regulatory pressures and user complaints about scams that cost consumers billions. Meta is also blocking malicious domains and collaborating with law enforcement. Concerns about data privacy exist, as the tools focus on metadata to maintain end-to-end encryption. This upgrade represents a significant evolution of Meta’s platforms toward enhanced security.

AppWizard

October 21, 2025

WhatsApp And Messenger Include Scam Warnings For Seniors

Meta is enhancing user safety on WhatsApp and Messenger by introducing protective measures aimed at curbing scams, particularly targeting older adults. WhatsApp will display a warning when users share screens during calls with unknown contacts, discouraging the sharing of sensitive information. Messenger is piloting a scam detection system that alerts users to potential fraud indicators, allowing them to block or report suspicious contacts. Research shows that timely alerts can reduce compliance with fraudulent requests. Meta has disrupted around 8 million scam accounts and removed over 21,000 impersonating profiles. The company is also collaborating with the National Elder Fraud Coordination Center, which includes various major corporations, to combat scams across platforms.

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 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

April 30, 2025

Malwarebytes Launches Global Strategic Partner Program Offering Organizations a One-stop Shop for Personal Security, Privacy, and Identity Solutions

Malwarebytes has launched a partnership initiative aimed at providing financial institutions, HR benefit providers, and internet service providers with personal security, privacy, and identity solutions in response to rising online fraud, which has led to financial losses of .5 billion over the past year for one in three individuals. The program offers AI-powered consumer security solutions to protect devices from various threats and allows partners to choose from a range of options or create custom solutions. Key features include a comprehensive cybersecurity platform, advanced mobile security, and flexible integration options. Eero is one of the first partners to integrate Malwarebytes Premium Security into its eero Plus subscription service, enhancing online security for its subscribers.

AppWizard

September 24, 2024

New Android trojan malware spotted, potentially infected over 10 million devices

Recent findings from Kaspersky reveal the emergence of Necro Trojan malware in popular Android applications, posing significant risks such as unauthorized access to personal data and online fraud. Despite Google's security measures, cybercriminals exploit vulnerabilities in the Android framework. Affected apps include Benqu's Wuta Camera, with over 10 million downloads, and the now-removed Max Browser, which had one million downloads. Modified versions of apps like WhatsApp, Spotify, and Minecraft have also been compromised. The Necro Trojan aims to take control of infected devices, executing harmful actions without user consent, including running malicious code and facilitating subscription fraud. Users are advised to uninstall suspicious apps, run antivirus scans, change critical passwords, and enable the Play Store's Play Protect feature for ongoing protection.

Tech Optimizer

August 19, 2024

Download Free Antivirus Software – Newspatrolling.com

Several commendable free antivirus options are available for download, including: - Avast: Offers six layers of protection, including a behavior shield and ransomware protection. Compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, and iPhone. Rated 4.2/5 on Trustpilot. - AVG: Provides comprehensive protection against various cyber threats with six levels of cybersecurity. Available for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. Rated 4.3/5 on Trustpilot. - Avira: Protects against spyware, adware, ransomware, and viruses with real-time updates. Available for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. Rated 4.0/5 on Trustpilot. - Bitdefender: Offers solid protection against various threats, designed to be light on CPU resources. Available for Windows, Android, and macOS. Rated 3.6/5 on Trustpilot. - Malwarebytes: Provides multi-layered security against various threats, particularly for compromised devices. Available for Windows, Mac, Android, and Chromebook. Rated 4.0/5 on Trustpilot.

AppWizard

August 2, 2024

New Android malware drains your bank accounts and completely wipes your device — how to stay safe

A new strain of Android malware called BingoMod has been discovered by Cleafy, which targets users' bank accounts and can wipe devices clean after compromising them. It spreads through phishing messages disguised as legitimate Android security software, often using familiar icons to deceive users into downloading malicious applications. Once installed, BingoMod requests permissions for Android's Accessibility Service, allowing it to steal login credentials, capture screenshots, and intercept text messages. It can bypass traditional anti-fraud measures by manipulating the victim's device directly. The malware can also uninstall antivirus applications, evade detection through advanced techniques, and remotely wipe device data if registered as a device admin app. Currently, it appears to target English, Romanian, and Italian-speaking Android users. Users are advised to avoid engaging with phishing messages to protect themselves from this threat.

AppWizard

July 16, 2024

City Police Commissioner’s Photo Misused on Messaging App | Pune News – Times of India

Online fraudsters used Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar's photo on a social media messaging app to pretend to be him and solicit money from people by claiming he was stuck in a foreign country. Kumar took action by warning his friends and acquaintances not to send money or respond to the fake number.