VPNs

Tech Optimizer
June 3, 2025
Bitdefender and McAfee are two leading antivirus software options known for robust malware protection and additional security features. Bitdefender achieves 98% effectiveness in real-time threat detection, while McAfee uses machine learning for threat identification but may produce false positives. Bitdefender offers a basic firewall, not available for macOS, whereas McAfee provides a more advanced firewall with device monitoring. Bitdefender has a standalone Digital Identity Protection service, while McAfee offers comprehensive identity theft protections in its Premium subscription. Bitdefender includes a VPN with a 200MB daily data cap, while McAfee provides unlimited VPN access but with fewer countries and features. Both offer password managers, but Bitdefender lacks two-factor authentication, while McAfee's True Key includes multi-factor authentication. Bitdefender’s parental controls are basic, while McAfee’s Safe Family includes location tracking. Bitdefender is known for lightweight performance, but recent tests suggest McAfee may have better system optimization. Both have user-friendly interfaces, with Bitdefender organizing features into tabs and McAfee offering a simpler design. In terms of protection, Bitdefender has a 98.7% detection rate, while McAfee excels online with 99.6% but struggles offline. Bitdefender's pricing starts at .99 for the first year, while McAfee's Basic plan starts at .99. Overall, Bitdefender is more budget-friendly, while McAfee offers advanced identity theft protection.
Tech Optimizer
June 3, 2025
Malwarebytes, founded in 2004 by Marcin Kleczynski, is an independent cybersecurity company that provides effective malware protection globally. The Malwarebytes Premium Security suite includes antivirus, phishing and identity protection, and an unlimited VPN powered by Mullvad. Pricing for the one-year license for a single device is .99, while a five-device license costs .99, and a two-year plan is priced at .98. The Premium Security Ultimate plan offers full identity protection and credit monitoring for .99 for the first year, with renewal at 9.99. A limited free version is available that detects and removes existing threats but lacks real-time protection. The app features a straightforward design with a clear dashboard, prioritizing user experience. Malwarebytes focuses on efficient scanning of commonly infected areas, completing test scans in 13 minutes. However, it does not automatically scan removable drives and lacks a warning system for password-protected files. Independent lab testing is infrequent, but Malwarebytes has received an AVLab 'Product of the Year' award and demonstrated strong performance in MRG Effitas assessments. In practical tests, Malwarebytes effectively detected known malware but struggled with behavioral detection against custom ransomware. It includes anti-phishing features, initially blocking 16% of phishing sites, which improved to 62% with the BrowserGuard extension. The unlimited VPN offers encryption and privacy but has limitations in unblocking streaming services. The identity protection feature scans for breaches associated with user email addresses and Social Security Numbers for U.S. users.
Tech Optimizer
May 31, 2025
Nearly half of Mac users have encountered viruses despite having protective software installed, challenging the belief that Apple products are immune to malware. The report highlights that 71% of Android users have antivirus software, but only 49% seek third-party tools. More than half of Americans do not use additional security measures beyond antivirus. Among iOS users, 38% are unaware of third-party antivirus options. While 84% have antivirus on computers, only 68% have it on smartphones and 60% on tablets. Despite widespread adoption, only 16% of antivirus users feel their software is ineffective. The virus encounter rates are 44% for Mac users, 36% for Windows users, and 30% for other platforms.
AppWizard
May 23, 2025
Google has expanded its protections against regional pricing abuse on the Play Store to create a fairer environment for app developers and users. The company is now automatically detecting and blocking purchases that exploit regional price differences, allowing developers to offer localized pricing without the risk of revenue loss. Additionally, Google Play is providing developers with more control over payment location restrictions and has strengthened protections against the misuse of free trial pricing for subscriptions.
Tech Optimizer
May 19, 2025
A researcher using the pseudonym es3n1n has created a tool called Defendnot that manipulates Windows operating systems to disable Microsoft Defender, making devices vulnerable to malware. Defendnot simulates the presence of a legitimate antivirus by using an undocumented API in the Windows Security Center, convincing Windows that a valid antivirus is installed. This development raises concerns about cybersecurity, as it undermines the effectiveness of built-in antivirus protections like Windows Defender.
AppWizard
May 17, 2025
NordVPN has been recognized as the Best VPN for Android in 2025, continuing its commitment to trusted VPN services since launching its Android app in 2016. The user interface has been redesigned for a streamlined experience, featuring a clean, map-based home screen and easy server access. It has received praise for exceptional speed on Android devices, attributed to its NordLynx protocol, and boasts over 7,000 servers in more than 100 countries for reliable internet access. NordVPN maintains a strict no-logs policy to protect user privacy and includes advanced security features like Threat Protection Lite. The app is optimized for battery efficiency and offers robust customer support, including 24/7 live chat. NordVPN's competitive pricing plans and various payment methods enhance its accessibility.
Tech Optimizer
May 16, 2025
Antivirus software has been a common tool for PC users over the past two decades, with many opting for third-party solutions for enhanced protection despite Windows 11's built-in features. User behavior significantly impacts computer security, emphasizing the importance of avoiding unknown links and not reusing passwords. Antivirus packages are designed to combat threats like ransomware, spyware, and viruses. The evaluation process for antivirus applications involved testing on a Windows 11 PC with simulated virus attacks and scanning the SSD for performance metrics. The top antivirus apps for 2025 include BitDefender Total Security (£49.99), Avira Free (free), Malwarebytes Plus (£49.99), and Sophos Home Premium (£37.46).
AppWizard
May 13, 2025
Mullvad VPN has announced that its Android app builds are now reproducible starting with version 2025.2, allowing users to verify that the app is built from the open-source code published by Mullvad. Reproducible builds ensure that the published source code matches the distributed application and that no unintended modifications occurred during the build process. Mullvad encourages users to engage in the verification process, providing source codes and instructions on its GitHub page.
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