system scan Archives

Tech Optimizer

December 7, 2025

How to find and remove viruses on your Windows PC – 12 free methods that I can attest to

Modern antivirus solutions have reduced PC infections, but risks persist as cybercriminals develop stealthy methods to infiltrate systems. Signs of infection include unfamiliar programs, missing files, slow performance, and disabled security settings. If infection is suspected, disconnect from the internet, boot into Safe Mode, and run a full system scan with Windows Security or Microsoft Defender. To enhance cybersecurity post-infection, users should clear temporary files, reset browser settings, uninstall suspicious applications, scan external drives, keep Windows updated, use strong passwords, and verify sources before engaging with links or attachments. Tools like VirusTotal can help scan files from unverified sources. If performance issues continue, a complete reinstallation of Windows 11 may be necessary, ensuring essential files are backed up first.

Tech Optimizer

November 13, 2025

12 ways to find viruses on your PC for free (and how to remove them)

In cybersecurity, modern viruses operate subtly, making them hard to detect while stealing data. Signs of infection include unfamiliar programs, missing files, erratic browser behavior, frequent error messages, and disabled security settings. If infected, disconnect from the internet, boot into Safe Mode, and run a full scan with Windows Security or trusted antivirus software. To protect your PC, delete temporary files, reset browser settings, uninstall suspicious apps, scan external drives, install updates, change passwords, and avoid suspicious links. For suspicious files, use VirusTotal to check for malware. If problems persist, a complete reinstallation of Windows 11 may be necessary after backing up important files.

Tech Optimizer

October 10, 2025

How a single MacBook compromise spread across a user’s Apple devices

Macs are known for their reliability and security but are not immune to malware, which is becoming more sophisticated. A user named Jeffrey in Phoenix reported performance issues with his MacBook, which was used without an Apple ID due to company policy. The malware eventually affected his personal devices, prompting him to seek assistance from Apple. Signs of potential infection include sluggish performance, frequent app crashes, unusual activity in Activity Monitor, redirected web traffic, and altered security settings. macOS includes built-in protections like Gatekeeper, XProtect, System Integrity Protection, and Sandboxing, but these are not foolproof. If a Mac is suspected to be infected, users should disconnect from the internet, back up important files, boot into Safe Mode, run a trusted malware removal tool, check login items and Activity Monitor, consider a clean reinstall of macOS, secure other devices, reset passwords, and seek professional help if needed. To prevent infections, users should install strong antivirus software, consider personal data removal services, use a password manager, enable two-factor authentication, keep macOS and apps updated, review login items and background processes, and use identity theft protection services.

Tech Optimizer

September 29, 2025

Best cyber security deal: Mashable readers get 65% off the Fortect Ultimate security suite

The Fortect Ultimate suite is currently available at a discounted price of .95, down from the original price of .94, reflecting a 65% reduction. This suite protects up to five devices and includes features such as antivirus software, a cross-platform VPN, a driver updater, full PC optimization, and 24/7 customer support. Key features of the antivirus include real-time threat protection, comprehensive malware protection, and compatibility with Windows, Mac, and mobile devices. The VPN offers enhanced online security and access to over 2,400 servers worldwide. The driver updater provides automatic scans and one-click updates for drivers, while the optimizer includes advanced repair technology and disk cleanup. Each subscription comes with a complimentary system scan and a 60-day money-back guarantee.

Tech Optimizer

September 1, 2025

Fortect Antivirus Review 2025: Expert Insights into Protection, Features, and Pricing

Fortect is a German company specializing in antivirus and security software, focusing on transparency, trust, and user empowerment. Its installation process is straightforward, leading to a comprehensive system scan that identifies various issues. The software features a modern, user-friendly interface with a navy blue color scheme, allowing users to monitor malware protection and access modules for performance, security, privacy, and VPN. The Security section includes quick or custom scans, real-time protection, and targeted scanning options. The Antivirus module provides real-time protection against malware using cloud-based technology, with capabilities to repair system instability and create restore points. Fortect has a macOS version and mobile apps for Android and iOS that offer network scanning and data breach alerts, but higher-tier plans are required for multi-device access. It has received the VB100 certification with a 99.19% success rate in malware detection and minimal false positives. Additional features include a Performance Scan and Driver Updater, though its offerings are limited compared to competitors like Norton 360 and Sophos Home Premium. Support options are less robust, with response times of up to 48 hours for web inquiries. Fortect lacks independent testing from reputable organizations, raising concerns about reliability compared to established products.

AppWizard

July 9, 2025

Dangerous Android malware targets US banking apps – 50,000 people already affected, make sure you’re not next

A PDF reader app for Android, 'Document Viewer – File Reader', has been found to contain a banking trojan called Anatsa, introduced through a patch six weeks after its release. The app, published by 'Hybrid Cars Simulator, Drift & Racing', has over 50,000 downloads and specifically targets North American banking applications. Security researchers have noted a history of similar threats, with previous trojanized apps having significant download numbers. The Anatsa trojan scans for North American banking apps and overlays a deceptive interface to steal user credentials. Google has removed the app from the Play Store and advises users to uninstall it, conduct a system scan, and reset banking credentials. Google Play Protect provides automatic protection against malicious apps.

AppWizard

July 9, 2025

Android malware Anatsa infiltrates Google Play to target US banks

The Anatsa banking trojan has reappeared on Google Play as a PDF viewer app, accumulating over 50,000 downloads. It activates upon installation, targeting North American banking applications by presenting an overlay that allows unauthorized access, keylogging, and transaction automation. Researchers from Threat Fabric discovered that the app displays a fake notification about banking system maintenance to mask its activities. Anatsa has a history of infiltrating Google Play through various trojanized applications, with previous campaigns resulting in 300,000 downloads in November 2021, 30,000 in June 2023, and 150,000 in February 2024. In May 2024, Zscaler reported two new Anatsa applications on Google Play, achieving 70,000 downloads. The specific app identified is ‘Document Viewer – File Reader,’ published by ‘Hybrid Cars Simulator, Drift & Racing,’ which maintains a “clean” appearance until it builds a user base, after which malicious code is introduced via an update. Anatsa connects to a command-and-control server to monitor targeted applications. Google has removed the malicious app, advising users to uninstall it, scan their devices, and reset banking credentials. Users are encouraged to download apps only from reputable publishers and be cautious with permissions and reviews. Google Play Protect automatically protects users from known malicious apps.

Tech Optimizer

July 1, 2025

Don’t Let a Fake Virus Scam You—Clap Back with These Quick Fixes

Android users may encounter fake virus warning pop-ups, often triggered by visiting malicious websites. To remove these pop-ups, users should close all browser windows, force stop the active browser, and clear its cache. For prevention, users should keep their Chrome app updated, disable pop-ups and ads, and enable prompts for automatic downloads. While the risk of actual viruses on unrooted Android devices is low, users should uninstall suspicious apps and use malware detection apps like Malwarebytes and CCleaner to ensure their devices are malware-free. If a virus warning appears outside the browser, it may indicate a compromised browser due to a malicious add-on.

Tech Optimizer

June 28, 2025

Norton AntiVirus Plus for Mac

Windows is the primary target for malware attacks, leading to a focus on antivirus applications for the platform, while macOS users have fewer options. Norton AntiVirus Plus for Mac offers robust cross-platform protection and has received perfect scores from independent testing labs, excelling in phishing protection. It is priced at approximately .99 annually for a single license and .99 for a five-license subscription. Norton supports the latest three macOS versions: Sequoia (15), Sonoma (14), and Ventura (13). The Gen stack, a new antivirus engine, consolidates technology from Norton, Avast, and AVG, ensuring consistent performance. Norton achieved a perfect score of 18 points in independent testing, with a 100% detection rate for Mac malware and Windows-specific threats. It offers flexible scanning options, with quick scans completing in 30 seconds and full scans in 27 minutes. Norton has a 100% detection rate for phishing sites and includes a smart firewall and intrusion prevention system. Its password manager offers basic functions but lacks advanced features. Norton Genie is an AI-based scam detection tool integrated into the ecosystem. The software includes performance improvement tools like File Cleanup and Startup Manager, but privacy components require separate purchases.

Tech Optimizer

June 11, 2025

Malwarebytes Plus antivirus review

Malwarebytes Plus is a straightforward antivirus software priced at approximately .99 per year, offering protection for three devices across Mac, Windows, iOS, or Android platforms. It also has a family plan for up to ten devices at .99 per year and a Teams package for businesses protecting 20 devices or more at 9.99 per year. The subscription includes a VPN with no data transfer limits but lacks a password manager. Users can schedule quick scans and access advanced settings for specific vulnerabilities. The application runs efficiently in the background, with quick scans taking around 26 seconds. It features real-time protection against ransomware and exploits, but offers limited privacy options and identity threat protection primarily as an incentive to upgrade. The interface is clean but may be less user-friendly compared to competitors. Malwarebytes Plus provides 24/7 support via email, chat, and phone, including remediation guidance for specific viruses.