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5 common antivirus mistakes to avoid at all costs
Computer viruses can ruin everything. Systems that once worked well grind to a halt as your computer struggles to recover. That’s why antivirus programs are non-negotiable: They keep your digital life safe if you avoid the most common mistakes.
One misconception about antivirus software is thinking that any option will do. They download the first free program they find, thinking it will work just as well as a paid product from a legitimate company. In reality, using free antivirus software could cost you dearly.
When protecting your devices, you get what you pay for. Kim recommends our sponsor, TotalAV, which has an industry-leading security suite that offers the best protection possible. No matter what program you use, avoid these common security mistakes.
Mistake No. 1: You don’t do your research
This might sound bizarre, but many antivirus programs are malware in disguise. Cybercriminals know that many people are trusting. They’re banking on you not doing your research and taking the word “antivirus” at face value.
If you fall for a fake, you could download malware onto your device. We recommend avoiding free antivirus programs since they’re more likely to come from scammers.
Bottom line: Do research when trying to protect your gadgets. Choose poorly, and you could inadvertently destroy them. Read reviews to see what people think about the antivirus program. If they say it’s a scam, believe them.
Mistake No. 2: You don’t download antivirus software from official sources
Maybe you see an ad for a reliable program and click it. This takes you to a website that looks legitimate. If you download the program from this site, you could be putting your digital life in danger.
Cybercriminals often try to get your guard down by pretending to be something they’re not. Many fake antivirus or malware removal programs pose as legitimate tools from trustworthy companies.
That’s why you should never download a program from a random website — no matter how official the site’s design looks. Otherwise, you could be buying a fraudulent program.
Instead, purchase software from the official website. You must take a few extra steps, but it’s worth it. Luckily, there are a few surefire red flags you can look for. Tap or click here for a few ways to avoid impersonation scams.
Mistake No. 3: Not having backups
Although antivirus programs are essential in your cybersecurity kit, you shouldn’t rely on them alone. You should also use firewalls, VPNs and other protective strategies. Depending on just one program is expecting a lot.
Remember that each cybersecurity tool protects you differently. There are countless threats you’ll have to deal with, like:
- Phishing schemes.
- Hackers.
- Data breaches.
- Spyware.
- Ransomware.
- Typosquatting.
Those are just a few examples. There are many other cyberattacks you need to watch out for. Use more than an antivirus program to protect yourself as much as possible.
Tap or click here for the difference between a firewall and an antivirus program.
Mistake No. 4: You don’t update your antivirus program
Many people will download an antivirus program and never think about it again. They believe installing it is another task they can cross off their to-do list.
In reality, you need to participate in your cybersecurity strategy. You can’t just sit back and wipe your hands clean. One of the most common antivirus mistakes people make is not staying up-to-date on their program of choice.
To protect yourself, watch for updates. Whenever the company releases new patches, download them. This way, you won’t miss out on critical security features. If you don’t do this, you’re putting yourself at risk. Hackers often find old errors and vulnerabilities in popular programs.
Your device could be hacked if you don’t update your antivirus software.
Mistake No. 5: Using multiple antivirus programs
When discussing cybersecurity, you only need one antivirus program at your beck and call.
If you double up, you might put yourself in danger. Each antivirus program has a unique way of interacting with your device. If you download two at once, they might counteract each other.
They might misinterpret the other as malware. Thus, one antivirus program might designate the other as a harmful program and quarantine it. Just like that, a program you paid for has been rendered useless.
BONUS: The best of the best
Cyberattacks are on the rise, and the more we rely on our devices for work, school and our personal lives, the more we have to lose. Whether it’s bank accounts, personal data, photos or conversations, there’s just so much to preserve and protect. That’s why we recommend TotalAV.
Not only do you get continuous protection from the latest threats, but its AI-driven Web Shield browser extension blocks dangerous websites automatically, and its Junk Cleaner can help you quickly clear out your old files.
Right now, get an annual plan of TotalAV Internet Security for only $19 at ProtectWithKim.com. That’s over 85% off the regular price!
Tags: antivirus, cybercriminals, cybersecurity, devices, hackers, internet, malware, security
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