5 free security downloads every computer needs
We’re constantly seeing spikes in phishing attacks, malicious websites and other dangers lurking on the web. All that adds up to big money. According to the U.S. Federal Trade Commission, consumers lost more than $3.3 billion to fraud in 2020.
You don’t have to take this lying down. Between preemptive measures like security software and in-depth system scans for malware, there are plenty of options to protect your devices from harm. Tap or click here to see the best online virus scanners you can use for free.
If you’re looking for simple, effective ways to stay on top of cybersecurity, these five free downloads can help you protect your system from malware infection, secure your network and help browse the web with peace of mind. Here’s what you need to install.
1. Essential antimalware software for PCs and Macs
Antimalware programs are essential for scanning and cleaning harmful files from your computer. And when it comes to free options, Windows Defender and Malwarebytes have all your bases covered on Windows and Mac.
Windows Defender is designed by Microsoft to work with Windows 10 computers and comes with your PC by default. Because it works behind the scenes, there are no downloads or installation files to mess around with. Using the program, you can scan your computer for malware, quarantine malicious files and remove them with just a few clicks.
In addition to performing background scans, this software automatically scans downloads, open programs and provides new Windows Update definitions so you can stay on top of spreading threats. Make sure you’re using the latest version. Update Windows Defender here.
As for Apple systems, macOS doesn’t have a stock equivalent like Windows Defender, but that doesn’t mean you should go without protection.
Malwarebytes for Mac is designed for speed and can scan your entire computer in as little as 30 seconds. It identifies and removes malicious files for you once the scan is complete — no extra work is required on your end.
To get started, click the link below and select Free Download. The installer file will appear in your Downloads folder in the bottom right corner of your dock, where all your program icons are found. Click the file to open it, and follow the directions that appear on-screen.
Malwarebytes will run you through the process of your first scan once you boot it up for the first time.
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Billions of PC users at risk: Adult websites infected with malware
It should go without saying, but some websites are much more dangerous than others. Third-party app stores, for example, are home to tons of nasty malware and spam apps. But there’s no question that porn sites take the cake when it comes to malware and hacking risks.
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It’s becoming increasingly difficult to avoid scams online. During the month of April alone, phishing scams rose more than 30%. Meanwhile, hundreds of new phishing domains continue to be registered every day.
Why? Well, thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, people are spending more time online than ever. That leaves a perfect opportunity for hackers to take advantage of people and attack their personal data and finances. Tap or click here to see just how creative these scammers are getting.
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Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, scams targeting banks and financial institutions have been on the rise. Registered domains associated with phishing campaigns increased by 30% throughout April, and authorities are noticing new attack patterns are starting to get much more aggressive.
Free tools to check if your Mac or Windows computer is infected with a virus
Millions of Americans are out of work, but hackers and cybercriminals are busier than ever. We’re talking astounding increases in spam, 38,000 coronavirus-related sites and 18,000-plus consumer complaints to the FTC related to the coronavirus outbreak.