system scan Archives

Tech Optimizer

April 29, 2025

Intego Mac Internet Security

PCs were introduced before Apple’s Macintosh, leading to the emergence of PC viruses and the establishment of antivirus companies, with Macintosh protection being less prioritized. Intego focused on Macintosh security from the start, offering Intego Mac Internet Security, which includes a firewall that manages network permissions and defends against external attacks. Intego has been effective against Mac malware, achieving a 99.1% malware detection score in independent lab tests, although it lacks phishing protection, a feature offered by competitors Norton 360 Deluxe and Bitdefender Antivirus Plus. Intego's pricing is competitive, with a standard annual fee of .99 for a single license and .99 for three licenses. A five-device subscription costs .99, while the Mac Premium Bundle starts at .99 annually and includes additional features. A 14-day free trial is available, and free alternatives like Avast and AVG are also on the market. Intego supports older macOS versions back to Mavericks (10.9), but the latest version requires High Sierra (10.13) or later. The installation process for Intego is straightforward, requiring a restart and granting necessary permissions. The main interface includes components for updates, firewall, and antivirus, with user-friendly access to scanning options. Intego has received certification from AV-Comparatives and detected 100% of Windows malware samples in tests. Its quick scan takes about two and a half minutes, while a full system scan takes seven minutes. Intego's Safe Browsing feature checks existing browser protections but lacks a dedicated antiphishing solution. The NetBarrier firewall allows users to classify their network and manage traffic permissions effectively, although it may be complex for some users.

Tech Optimizer

April 27, 2025

Why aren’t there antivirus apps for the iPhone?

In recent years, the belief that iOS devices are "immune" to viruses has been challenged as cybercriminals increasingly target these platforms. Apple’s security measures, including sandboxing, help isolate apps to prevent the spread of malware. The App Store is strictly controlled, with Apple reviewing apps for security compliance, resulting in few harmful applications being reported. Antivirus software available in the App Store, from companies like McAfee and Norton, operates under the same constraints as other apps and cannot directly access the operating system kernel. Users are advised to avoid jailbreaking their devices, enable automatic updates, and take precautions such as avoiding public charging stations and regularly reviewing app permissions. Utilizing a password manager or VPN can enhance security, and those who have experienced data breaches may consider identity theft protection.

Tech Optimizer

April 15, 2025

Steps to Scan Your Computer for Free and Check for Viruses and Malware

Windows Security, previously known as Windows Defender, is a built-in security tool in Windows 10 and 11 that provides comprehensive protection against viruses and malware without requiring additional software. Users can perform manual scans, including Quick, Full, and Custom scans, to identify and eliminate threats. To run a scan, users must open Windows Security, navigate to "Virus & threat protection," and select the desired scan option. Windows Security also includes features such as real-time protection, firewall and network protection, app and browser control, device security, and account protection. It is essential to keep Windows Security updated with the latest virus definitions for optimal protection. Users can also schedule automatic scans for regular checks.

Tech Optimizer

April 7, 2025

Scanguard

Scanguard is owned by Total Security LTD and offers a comprehensive security and optimization suite that includes virus protection, system performance improvements, junk file removal, a password vault, and a VPN. Its security features include real-time protection against malware, ransomware, spyware, and adware, facilitated by specialized guards. A free version is available for Windows, but it has limitations regarding update speed. The initial scan on a 512 GB SSD takes under five minutes and covers various checks. The app prompts users to upgrade for certain features, although discounts are available for first-time users. Core features include Malware Guard, Ransomware Guard, Spyware Guard, Aware Guard, and WebShield for real-time protection against malicious sites. Scanguard also offers identity theft protection services and a system optimizer that cleans junk files and manages applications. An Android app is available, but there is no iPhone app, and the Android version must be downloaded from the Scanguard website. Scanguard's pricing includes a free version and a paid plan with a promotional rate for the first year, with payment through PayPal. The paid plan offers real-time protection, cloud-based threat detection, and customer support. Recent evaluations show a detection rate of 96.94% in a VB100 test, with a 0.000% false alarm rate, but it is not currently VB100 certified. The user interface is modern and intuitive, though the installation process may take time due to database updates.

AppWizard

March 18, 2025

Malicious Android ‘Vapor’ apps on Google Play installed 60 million times

Over 300 malicious Android applications, identified as adware, have been downloaded 60 million times from Google Play. These apps, part of an operation called "Vapor," have attempted to steal sensitive user information and generate 200 million fraudulent advertising bid requests daily. The campaign was first uncovered by the IAS Threat Lab and has been active since early 2024. A total of 331 malicious applications were identified, with significant infections reported in Brazil, the United States, Mexico, Turkey, and South Korea. Notable offenders include AquaTracker, ClickSave Downloader, Scan Hawk, Water Time Tracker, Be More, BeatWatch, TranslateScan, and Handset Locator, each with varying download counts. The apps disguise themselves as utilities and employ tactics to evade detection, such as disabling their Launcher Activity and creating fullscreen overlays for ads. Users are advised to avoid unnecessary apps from unverified publishers and regularly check installed applications.

Tech Optimizer

February 5, 2025

What to do if you think your PC has a virus

Signs that a PC may have a virus include noticeable slowdown in performance, unfamiliar applications appearing, frequent crashes or erratic software behavior, and overheating. To remove a virus from a PC, users should: 1. Disconnect from the internet. 2. Enter safe mode. 3. Run a virus scan with antivirus software. 4. Delete or quarantine infected files. 5. Clear temporary files using the Disk Cleanup tool. 6. Reset browser settings to default. 7. Check and disable unfamiliar startup programs in Task Manager. 8. Update the operating system and software. 9. Backup data regularly. To avoid future viruses, users should practice safe browsing, enable a firewall, download from trusted sites, and use a secure VPN connection.

Tech Optimizer

November 7, 2024

TotalAV vs PCProtect: Which Is the Best Antivirus?

TotalAV offers superior protection and user experience compared to PCProtect, with affordability enhancing its appeal. TotalAV blocked all prepared malware samples and nine out of ten wild samples in tests, while PCProtect missed two prepared and three wild samples, achieving a 75% effectiveness score. TotalAV features an intuitive interface, effective password manager, and superior VPN, while PCProtect's interface could benefit from redesign. TotalAV provides three pricing options, with the basic version covering four devices, making it more cost-effective than PCProtect, which is available for three devices. Both antivirus programs support Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. TotalAV has received high ratings from AV-TEST and AV-Comparatives, while PCProtect has not been evaluated by leading cybersecurity firms.

Tech Optimizer

October 23, 2024

Avast One for Mac review: a free antivirus is all you need | Digital Trends

Avast One is an antivirus software package designed for macOS users, offering features such as antivirus protection, ransomware safeguards, and malware blocking. It is available in both free and paid subscription plans. The free version, Avast One Essential, includes a malware scanner, browser protection, and a VPN with a 5GB monthly data limit. Paid tiers include Avast One Silver, Gold, and Platinum, with prices increasing significantly upon renewal. Avast One has shown strong performance in malware protection evaluations by AV-Test, maintaining a near-perfect rating over the past five years. The software includes a user-friendly interface and offers support via chat and email. While the free version may display targeted ads, the paid plans reduce such concerns. Overall, Avast One Essential provides robust protection, making it a notable option for users seeking antivirus solutions for Apple devices.

Tech Optimizer

October 18, 2024

Hackers Abuse EDRSilencer Tool to Bypass Security and Hide Malicious Activity

Threat actors are increasingly using the open-source tool EDRSilencer to evade endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions. EDRSilencer, inspired by MDSec's NightHawk FireBlock, obstructs outbound traffic from active EDR processes by utilizing the Windows Filtering Platform (WFP). It can terminate processes associated with various EDR products, including those from Microsoft, Elastic, Trellix, and Qualys. By employing EDRSilencer, malicious actors aim to render EDR software ineffective, complicating malware identification and removal. The tool dynamically identifies active EDR processes and establishes persistent filters to inhibit their outbound communications, preventing security software from transmitting telemetry data. This tactic enhances the likelihood of successful attacks without detection. Additionally, ransomware groups are utilizing advanced EDR-killing tools like AuKill and EDRKillShifter, which exploit vulnerable drivers to escalate privileges and terminate security processes, showcasing a sophisticated approach to evading detection. EDRKillShifter employs advanced persistence mechanisms to maintain its presence within a system and disrupt security processes in real-time.

Tech Optimizer

October 10, 2024

The 10 Best Antivirus Solutions With VPN for 2024

The text provides a detailed overview of the top 10 antivirus tools that include VPN capabilities, highlighting their features, pricing, and pros and cons. The antivirus solutions listed are: 1. TotalAV: Best overall with smart scanning and a robust VPN; priced at .25/month (annual plan). 2. Nord Threat Protection: Premium protection against online trackers; priced at .99/month (two-year plan). 3. Norton: AI-enabled antivirus with a powerful VPN; priced at .33/month (one-year plan). 4. Surfshark One: Lightweight antivirus with extensive VPN locations; priced at .69/month (two-year plan). 5. TrendMicro: Strong antivirus and VPN functionality, ideal for secure online transactions; priced at .58/month (annual plan). 6. ESET: Great antivirus and VPN with parental control features; priced at .50/month (annual plan). 7. Avast: Best free antivirus software with real-time protection and a limited VPN; free version available. 8. Intego: Efficient antivirus and VPN designed for Apple Mac users; priced at .50/month (two-year plan). 9. Panda Dome: Powerful antivirus and VPN for an unlimited number of devices; priced at .99/month with a 30-day free trial. 10. Malwarebytes: User-friendly antivirus and VPN combination; priced at .00/month (annual plan) with a 14-day free trial. Each product is evaluated based on its standout features, starting price, availability of a free version, and specific strengths and weaknesses. The text also explains the differences between antivirus software and VPNs, emphasizing the importance of both for comprehensive online security and privacy.