NewApp Digest
search bot

online threats

Real-World Threats Demand Real Results
Tech Optimizer
June 19, 2026

Real-World Threats Demand Real Results

AV-Comparatives conducted a Real-World Protection Test from February to May 2026, evaluating 20 consumer security products against real-world internet threats. Seven products received the ADVANCED+ award for their effective protection and low false alarm rates. The complete test report is available for free at av-comparatives.org. The evaluated products included well-known security solutions such as Avast, AVG, Bitdefender, Kaspersky, Microsoft, Norton, and TotalAV. The test aimed to assess how well these products protect against various online threats, including malware embedded in trusted platforms.
I tested Norton's Deepfake Protection — and it finally convinced me my next laptop needs an NPU
Tech Optimizer
June 18, 2026

I tested Norton’s Deepfake Protection — and it finally convinced me my next laptop needs an NPU

The landscape of online security has evolved significantly, with deepfake technology introducing new challenges. Users must be vigilant against both traditional malware and convincing fake images and videos. Antivirus software developers are enhancing their products by integrating cloud-based AI for better threat detection. For users with computers featuring neural processing units (NPUs), local solutions are available, such as Norton’s Deepfake Protection, which analyzes synthetic voices and images to flag potential threats. This feature operates in the background, providing peace of mind during online interactions. Norton 360 includes options for Deepfake Protection, Safe Web, and Safe SMS, but requires sufficient system resources to function effectively. Running this protection on older laptops may hinder performance, making NPUs a worthwhile investment for enhanced security against deepfakes and other online threats.
NordVPN celebrates record security scores, including 99.8% detection rate against “high-threat” malware
Tech Optimizer
June 17, 2026

NordVPN celebrates record security scores, including 99.8% detection rate against “high-threat” malware

NordVPN has achieved the "highest possible" AAA rating from West Coast Labs for its protection suite, with a 99.8% detection rate against high-threat malware in real-world Windows 11 environments. It also secured a 96% detection rate with zero false positives in the AV-Comparatives Anti-Phishing test, making it the first VPN provider to earn a protection badge from AV-Comparatives. NordVPN has launched dedicated private VPN servers that offer dedicated hardware, a static IP address, and port forwarding for enhanced user control. Additionally, a recent survey by NordVPN involving over 20,000 participants across 20 countries revealed significant insights into global screen time habits.
Best Free Antivirus Apps That Actually Protect Your PC From Viruses and Threats
Tech Optimizer
May 30, 2026

Best Free Antivirus Apps That Actually Protect Your PC From Viruses and Threats

Antivirus applications are essential for protecting Windows systems from online threats like viruses, malware, and phishing attempts. Many users prefer dedicated antivirus software despite improvements in built-in security features. Free antivirus software offers crucial protection without a paid subscription, balancing security, performance, and user-friendliness. Key free antivirus options include: - Microsoft Defender Antivirus: Built-in, real-time scanning, and regular updates. - Bitdefender Antivirus Free for Windows: Strong malware detection with minimal system impact. - AVG AntiVirus Free: Provides real-time protection and phishing defense. - Avast One Basic: Combines antivirus with additional security tools. - Avira Free Security: Lightweight with antivirus and privacy tools. - Panda Antivirus: User-friendly with essential protection and malware cleanup tools. Effective antivirus solutions should offer real-time protection, automatic updates, and seamless operation without hindering system performance. Trust and usability are also important factors in choosing antivirus software. The best antivirus for a user depends on their daily activities, with basic apps suitable for light users and more advanced options for those who frequently download files. Free antivirus applications can provide adequate protection for most users, but they may lack advanced features found in paid versions. Microsoft Defender and Bitdefender are noted for their low system impact. Running multiple antivirus programs simultaneously is not recommended due to potential conflicts.
This compact antivirus protection package is now less than £25 — Norton 360 has everything you need to secure your devices against malware, ransomware, and hacking
Tech Optimizer
May 29, 2026

This compact antivirus protection package is now less than £25 — Norton 360 has everything you need to secure your devices against malware, ransomware, and hacking

Norton 360 Standard is currently available for £25, down from its regular price of £70 for the first year. It protects up to three devices from threats like malware and ransomware and includes features such as cloud backup, a VPN, and a password manager. It has a Scam Protection feature that identifies scams in messages and deepfake videos, and an AI Genie for user support. Norton 360 is consistently ranked among the top three antivirus solutions and has received high marks from AV-Comparatives and AV-TEST. It secures internet traffic on public Wi-Fi networks and offers 10GB of cloud backup to protect important files. The deal auto-renews at the standard price after the first year.
Beyond VPNs: NordVPN's New All-in-One App Redefines Digital Security
Tech Optimizer
May 29, 2026

Beyond VPNs: NordVPN’s New All-in-One App Redefines Digital Security

NordVPN has launched an updated application that combines its VPN services with next-generation antivirus capabilities, creating a comprehensive digital security suite. The new offering emphasizes three main features: an advanced VPN for private connectivity, a next-generation antivirus for threat protection, and the Dark Web Monitor™ for data breach monitoring. The updated antivirus solution uses artificial intelligence and behavioral analysis to identify threats in real-time, including phishing and malware. In April 2026, NordVPN reported blocking 4.8 million threats, with over 3 million instances of malware blocked. The company’s Threat Protection Pro includes malware and phishing protection, ad and tracker blocking, vulnerability scanning, and dark web monitoring. Independent evaluations have shown high detection rates for blocking malicious URLs. The cybersecurity industry is seeing a trend towards bundling multiple security tools into single subscription packages, with NordVPN aiming to simplify digital protection for users. The company maintains a commitment to privacy, ensuring minimal data collection for threat assessments.
Norton 360 review: Powerful and bang-for-your-buck antivirus software
Tech Optimizer
May 29, 2026

Norton 360 review: Powerful and bang-for-your-buck antivirus software

Norton 360 is an antivirus solution that offers protection against AI scams, ransomware, and deepfakes. It includes 24/7 customer support, a user-friendly interface, and a 60-day money-back guarantee. The Standard plan costs .99 per year and covers one device with malware and ransomware defense, Deepfake Protection, and Dark Web Monitoring. Higher-tier plans provide additional features like parental controls, a secure VPN, and cloud backup. Norton 360 has a straightforward installation process and various scanning options that do not significantly impact system performance. It includes an AI assistant called Ask Genie and offers extensive support options, including a chatbot for user inquiries.
Search