stalkerware Archives

Tech Optimizer

November 7, 2025

Malwarebytes scores 100% in AV Comparatives Stalkerware Test 2025

The AV-Comparatives Stalkerware Test 2025 evaluated 13 Android security solutions against 17 stalkerware-type applications. The test revealed that stalkerware remains a significant threat, often installed covertly and designed to evade detection. Malwarebytes achieved a perfect 100% detection rate, while Bitdefender, ESET, Kaspersky, and McAfee each detected 94%. Avast, Avira, and F-Secure identified 88%, Norton and Sophos around 82%, and G Data (65%), Google (53%), and Trend Micro (59%) had lower detection rates. The evaluation emphasized the importance of clear communication of threats to potential victims. Malwarebytes' involvement in the Coalition Against Stalkerware highlights its commitment to user safety and effective detection of stalkerware.

AppWizard

November 6, 2025

EFF Teams Up With AV Comparatives to Test Android Stalkerware

The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) has conducted assessments of anti-virus products for Android in 2025, focusing on their ability to detect stalkerware. Malwarebytes achieved a 100% detection rate for all stalkerware samples, while ESET, Bitdefender, McAfee, and Kaspersky detected nearly all but one sample. Google Play Protect and Trend Micro had lower detection rates of 53% and 59%, respectively. The assessment revealed a reduction in unique stalkerware applications, with only 17 distinct products tested compared to 20 in previous years. This decline may be attributed to increased regulatory scrutiny and the rise of affordable Bluetooth-enabled tracking devices.

Tech Optimizer

October 19, 2025

How Avast Helps Protect Millions From Online Scams, Malware, and Phishing in 2025 – Report by Expert Consumers

Avast has been recognized by Expert Consumers for its effectiveness in protecting users from online scams, phishing attacks, and malware through innovative AI-driven methodologies. The rise in cyber threats, including phishing and social engineering attacks, has made robust antivirus protection essential. Avast employs tools such as Scam Guardian Pro, Web Guard, and Email Guard to secure users during online interactions. Its AI-driven defense model continuously adapts to new attack methods, while its malware engine provides real-time scanning and behavior-based detection. Avast's protection spans multiple platforms, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS, with tailored safeguards for each operating system. Recommended products include Avast Premium Security and Avast Ultimate, which offer comprehensive security solutions. The demand for adaptive security solutions is increasing as AI transforms scam methods, and Avast aims to redefine antivirus protection through machine learning and global threat intelligence.

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

August 2, 2025

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

Avast has been recognized as the Best Antivirus by Software Experts for its robust threat detection capabilities and extensive platform support. The software offers real-time antivirus protection, privacy enhancements, and performance solutions for consumers and businesses. Avast Premium Security includes features like malware detection, phishing protection, ransomware shields, and web threat prevention, with subscription options for single or multiple devices. The newly introduced Scam Guardian Pro provides AI-driven defenses against online scams, featuring Avast Assistant, Web Guard, and Email Guard. Avast Ultimate combines Premium Security with SecureLine VPN, AntiTrack, and Cleanup Premium for comprehensive protection. In 2024, Avast received the Best MacOS Security Award from AV-Test and achieved a perfect score in protection, performance, and usability. In 2023, it was recognized as a Top-Rated Product by AV-Comparatives, earning Advanced+ ratings and Gold awards. Avast also received an A+ grade from Virus Bulletin for a 99.69 percent malware detection rate. The software is used by over 435 million users globally and has certifications from various independent labs.

Tech Optimizer

August 2, 2025

Best Antivirus for Windows 10 (2025): Avast Awarded Top PC Security Solution by Software Experts

Avast has been recognized by Software Experts as a leading antivirus solution for Windows 10 in 2025, specifically highlighting Avast Premium Security and Avast Ultimate for their robust security frameworks, advanced privacy features, and user-friendly interfaces. Avast Premium Security offers real-time protection against viruses, malware, and ransomware, a ransomware shield, webcam protection, scam detection, anti-phishing protection, an advanced firewall, and email scanning. Avast Ultimate includes additional tools such as Avast SecureLine VPN for internet traffic encryption, Avast Cleanup Premium for system optimization, and Avast AntiTrack for digital privacy. Avast is a global cybersecurity firm that provides comprehensive protection across various platforms and has been acknowledged by independent testing labs.

Tech Optimizer

August 2, 2025

Best Antivirus Software 2025 Revealed: Why Experts Crown Avast as Ultimate Security Champion

Software Experts has recognized Avast as the Best Antivirus in its latest evaluation, highlighting its exceptional threat detection capabilities, extensive platform support, and comprehensive privacy features. Avast offers real-time antivirus, privacy, and performance solutions across various devices, including a multi-device plan that accommodates up to 10 devices. The newly introduced Scam Guardian Pro feature provides multi-layered defense against online scams. Avast Ultimate includes Premium Security, SecureLine VPN, AntiTrack, and Cleanup Premium for enhanced protection and performance. Avast has received multiple third-party certifications, including the Best MacOS Security Award from AV-Test in 2024 and a perfect score of 30 out of 30 in protection, performance, and usability. In 2023, it was recognized as a Top-Rated Product by AV-Comparatives and awarded an A+ grade by Virus Bulletin for its malware detection rate. Avast's software supports over 435 million users globally and has been certified by leading independent laboratories.

Tech Optimizer

July 31, 2025

Mac Antivirus Battle: Independent Tests Crown Avast Best Protection Against Rising Malware Threats

Software Experts has recognized Avast Premium Security and Avast Ultimate as top malware protection solutions for Mac users. This acknowledgment comes amid rising cybersecurity threats targeting Apple devices. Avast is known for its comprehensive digital protection, offering antivirus, privacy, and performance tools. Despite macOS's built-in security features, experts recommend third-party protection due to increasing cyber threats. In its 2025 analysis, Software Experts evaluated Avast's performance in malware protection, usability, real-world effectiveness, and feature set, with Avast excelling in all areas. Avast Premium Security includes defenses against viruses, spyware, ransomware, and phishing threats, featuring real-time malware detection and alerts for insecure Wi-Fi networks. The newly introduced Scam Guardian Pro enhances protection against online scams with AI-driven tools. Avast Ultimate extends its offerings to a multi-device solution, including a VPN, device performance optimizer, and anti-tracking tool. In 2024, AV-Test awarded Avast the Best macOS Security Award for Consumer Users, and AV-Comparatives recognized it as a Top-Rated Product in 2023. Avast's Ransomware Shield protects personal files from unauthorized modifications, and both products are available as single-device or multi-device subscriptions. Avast's Stay Safe Virus Guarantee provides virus removal support and a refund if malware cannot be eliminated. The review emphasizes the need for reliable cybersecurity software as online threats evolve, highlighting Avast's combination of antivirus protection, privacy tools, and device optimization.

AppWizard

April 3, 2025

This sneaky Android spyware needs a password to uninstall. Here’s how to remove it without one

Consumer-grade phone surveillance applications are becoming more sophisticated and difficult to remove. A recent investigation revealed an Android monitoring app that requires a password for uninstallation, trapping users who want to remove it. This spyware uses an Android feature to overlay content, displaying a password prompt when users attempt to uninstall it. The password is set by the person who installed the app, complicating removal. A workaround involves rebooting the device into "safe mode," which temporarily disables third-party apps, allowing users to uninstall the spyware without encountering the password prompt. These spyware applications are often marketed as parental control or employee tracking tools but can be classified as "stalkerware," with some promoting surveillance of partners without consent, which is illegal. Spyware is typically downloaded from unofficial sources and installed by individuals with physical access to the target device. It may hide its icon and continuously upload sensitive data to a web dashboard accessible by the abuser. Identifying such spyware can be difficult, as it may appear as a benign app in Android settings. To identify and remove Android password-enabled spyware, users should have a safety plan before proceeding. A general guide for spyware removal suggests checking for unfamiliar device admin apps, as these may indicate spyware presence. Users can enter safe mode by holding the power button, selecting "power off," and confirming the reboot into safe mode. In safe mode, users can check for and deactivate any suspicious device admin apps, then uninstall the spyware from the apps section in settings. After removal, users should secure their devices with a complex passcode and protect online accounts linked to the device. Staying vigilant about digital security is essential to reduce the risk of invasive technologies. Resources are available for those who suspect their phone has been compromised by spyware.