protection against malware Archives

Winsage

January 9, 2026

Is turning off Windows Security a bad idea in 2026? A PC expert’s bottom line

Windows Security is a comprehensive security suite for Windows users that monitors downloads, blocks threats, and quarantines malware. Users may need to disable it temporarily to install third-party software or games that are mistakenly flagged as threats. Permanent deactivation is typically for advanced users who may replace it with another security suite, but it increases vulnerability to online threats. To temporarily disable Windows Security, users can toggle off Real-time protection in the Windows Security app. For permanent deactivation, Windows 11 Pro users can use the Local Group Policy Editor, while Home users must edit the Registry. Creating a restore point before making changes is recommended for safety. Disabling Windows Security, even temporarily, should be done with caution to avoid increased risk of infections.

Tech Optimizer

January 4, 2026

Best Antivirus for Mobile Security in 2026

In 2026, mobile security has become essential due to the increasing management of sensitive tasks by smartphones, making them targets for cybercriminals who use advanced tactics such as harmful apps, phishing scams, QR code fraud, and sophisticated malware. The top four mobile antivirus and security applications of 2026 are: 1. TraceX Guard - Best overall mobile security in 2026, designed for India with AI-powered, real-time protection, focusing on region-specific scams and offering multilingual support. 2. Bitdefender Mobile Security - Premium antivirus with excellent malware detection and privacy tools, including real-time app scanning and a built-in VPN. 3. Norton Mobile Security - Trusted global antivirus providing strong all-round protection, including real-time malware protection and Wi-Fi security alerts. 4. McAfee Mobile Security - All-in-one solution featuring antivirus, identity monitoring, and a secure VPN. TraceX Guard excels in detecting and blocking scams specific to India, such as fake loan apps and phishing links in regional languages. Its key features include AI-driven malware detection, APK installation protection, QR code and URL risk scanning, network security, identity protection, and multilingual support. Bitdefender offers real-time scanning, advanced anti-phishing protection, a built-in VPN, and privacy monitoring. Norton provides malware protection, app safety, and network security alerts. McAfee combines malware detection with identity monitoring and secure browsing features. When choosing a mobile antivirus app, users should consider their location and threat exposure, with TraceX Guard recommended for India-specific protection, Bitdefender for premium features, Norton for reliability, and McAfee for an all-in-one solution.

Winsage

January 3, 2026

5 Free Tools To Keep Your Windows 10 PC Secure Without Further Microsoft Support

Millions of users are unable to transition to Windows 11 due to stringent hardware requirements, leaving many Windows 10 PCs vulnerable to malware threats. Microsoft has introduced Extended Security Updates (ESU) for Windows 10 Home users, available for a year at a cost. Users can enhance their Windows 10 security with various tools: - 0patch: Micropatches vulnerabilities without requiring a restart, supported until 2030. The free version addresses zero-day vulnerabilities, while the pro version offers more comprehensive protection. - TinyWall: Simplifies firewall management using the Windows Filtering Platform, allowing users to control app connections without constant pop-ups. - Patch My PC Home Updater: Automates the updating of outdated applications to enhance security. - Sandboxie Plus: Allows users to run applications in an isolated environment to prevent changes from affecting the system. - Panda Dome Free: A free antivirus solution providing real-time protection against malware, with features like USB Protection and Process Monitor.

Tech Optimizer

January 2, 2026

Fake AI chat results are spreading dangerous Mac malware

Cybercriminals are exploiting trust in AI chat tools to spread malware, specifically the Atomic macOS Stealer (AMOS), by infiltrating Google search results with fake AI conversations. These conversations mislead Mac users into executing commands that install AMOS without triggering security alerts. Investigators have found that both ChatGPT and Grok have been manipulated in this scheme. Users searching for help with routine tasks may encounter polished AI chat results that appear legitimate, ultimately leading them to run harmful commands in the macOS Terminal. This tactic mirrors previous campaigns that used sponsored search results and SEO-poisoned links to direct users to counterfeit macOS software. The effectiveness of this attack lies in the combination of trust in AI responses and the credibility of search results. To stay safe, users should avoid pasting terminal commands from search results, treat AI instructions as suggestions, use password managers, keep software updated, employ strong antivirus solutions, be skeptical of sponsored results, avoid unknown cleanup guides, and question overly polished instructions.

Tech Optimizer

December 29, 2025

Best antivirus software of 2025: security, speed, pricing

In 2025, the best antivirus software includes: - MacKeeper: Best for Mac users, cryptocurrency holders, and identity protection. Key features include real-time protection against malware, ID Theft Guard, adware cleaning, built-in VPN, and system performance tools. Pricing starts around €9.86/month. - Norton 360: Best for families and multi-device protection. It offers advanced malware protection, a VPN, cloud backup, Dark Web monitoring, and parental controls. Pricing is approximately .50–/month. - Bitdefender: Best for aggressive ransomware protection with minimal CPU load. It features ransomware recovery, advanced threat detection, multi-layer malware defense, and a secure password manager. Pricing starts from .99–.99/year. - McAfee: Best for identity theft monitoring and financial protection. It includes effective malware detection, credit checks, and privacy tools. Pricing ranges from .99–.99/year. - Surfshark One: Best for lightweight antivirus combined with privacy tools. Key features include real-time antivirus and a VPN. Pricing starts from €1.69-€4.19/month. - Avast: Best for free antivirus features. It offers free real-time protection and a Ransomware Shield. The free version is available, with premium starting around .99/year. - AVG: Best for beginners needing a simple, effective free antivirus. It provides real-time threat protection and ransomware defense. The free version is available, or .68/year for advanced features. - Malwarebytes: Best for removing active malware and adware. It excels in malware cleanup and fast scans. Pricing starts from .49/year. - TotalAV: Best for strong first-year pricing and antivirus + privacy bundle. It protects against malware and includes a VPN. Pricing is approximately .00 for the first year, renewing at .99/year. Pricing information is based on rates available in December 2025.

Tech Optimizer

November 20, 2025

Amazon’s Early Black Friday Antivirus Deals: Big Savings from Norton, McAfee, Malwarebytes, and more

Amazon has launched Black Friday deals on antivirus software, offering discounts of over 80% on various packages. Current deals include McAfee Total Protection for £12.50, Norton 360 Deluxe for £11.50, McAfee+ Premium for £40, Malwarebytes Premium for £20, and Bitdefender Total Security for £20. These products provide essential protection against malware and hackers, with some offering additional features like identity theft protection and VPNs.

Tech Optimizer

October 28, 2025

TotalAV Antivirus Review 2025: Best Real-Time Cybersecurity Software for Complete Device Protection

TotalAV Antivirus provides real-time protection against malware, ransomware, and phishing across Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. It features advanced scanning technology, continuous monitoring, and system optimization tools. The software includes a cloud-based scanning engine for zero-day threats and a VPN for encrypted browsing. TotalAV has achieved a 100% malware detection rate with zero false positives in independent tests. It offers three subscription plans: TotalAV Premium (3 devices), TotalAV Internet Security (6 devices), and TotalAV Total Security (8 devices), each with varying features and prices. Users report satisfaction with its performance and ease of use, and it includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Tech Optimizer

October 17, 2025

Bitdefender Antivirus Review for Businesses & MSPs

Bitdefender has been operating since 2001 and is recognized for its antivirus solutions for individual users, small businesses, and large enterprises. It offers various plans, including a free version for consumers and multiple options under its GravityZone line for businesses and managed service providers (MSPs). The pros of Bitdefender include reliable threat detection, strong performance in independent tests, an easy-to-use interface, low system resource impact, seamless setup, and the availability of free antivirus software. The cons include scalability limitations based on the initial plan chosen. For consumers, Bitdefender offers two subscription tiers: Bitdefender Free and Bitdefender Antivirus Plus, priced at free and .99 for the first year, respectively. The business plans include GravityZone Small Business Security, GravityZone Business Security Premium, and Secure (EDR), with prices starting at .49 for one year. Bitdefender’s business solutions received accolades from AV-TEST in April 2025, detecting 100% of widespread malware and zero false positives. AV-Comparatives awarded it the Approved Enterprise & Business Security Product Award in 2024. Key features of Bitdefender’s business solutions include multilayered defenses against various threats, centralized dashboards for visibility, built-in device controls, and advanced capabilities in higher-tier plans. The GravityZone platform offers tailored solutions for MSPs, including Secure (EDR), Secure Plus (MDR), and Secure Extra (MXDR). Bitdefender’s Risk Analytics capabilities assist MSPs in identifying vulnerabilities and automating compliance reporting. User feedback from third-party forums highlights its effectiveness, high detection rates, affordability, and strong real-time threat prevention. In June 2025, Bitdefender acquired Mesh Security to enhance its XDR and MDR offerings against email threats.

Tech Optimizer

October 7, 2025

These are the best Amazon Prime Day antivirus deals on packages for five devices (or more)

Amazon is offering significant discounts on antivirus software packages during its Big Prime Day Deals, available for two days. These packages, which support five to twenty devices, include Norton 360 Premium, McAfee Total Protection, and Bitdefender Total Security. They provide protection against malware and additional features like webcam protection, hardened browsers, and ransomware rollback. The antivirus solutions are compatible with various operating systems.

Tech Optimizer

October 7, 2025

MENXTT NG, Kecaam Tech To Bundle Bitdefender Antivirus On Devices

MENXTT NG has formed a strategic partnership with Kecaam Technologies Limited to enhance digital security for consumers in Nigeria. The collaboration will see MENXTT NG bundle Bitdefender Antivirus software with every laptop and tablet purchased through its platform, ensuring that devices arrive equipped with protection against malware and other online threats. This initiative aims to provide customers with a secure digital experience and reflects MENXTT NG's commitment to integrating cybersecurity with high-quality tech products. The partnership addresses the increasing cyber risks faced by consumers and positions MENXTT NG as a leader in the Nigerian tech retail market.