Everyone by now should realize they need security software (AntiVirus) on their computers, but as many of us know- it simply is not the case. I find that many people are confused or simply don’t realize what a virus can do. This applies across the board with all age brackets. Read along and I’ll help you understand why you need security software and some of the pitfalls of mistakes people make that you can avoid.
(Pictured is a Rogue/Fake Antivirus)
I often get the question, “I’ve never had a problem with viruses, why do I need….” In short, you can’t always see the effects of a virus (or malware as I will use for the broader term). Malware exists for one main reason; To make money by means of theft. Often times the user is unaware there is a virus. That virus could be causing a pop-up asking for money, which is more obvious or it could be running silently in the background stealing information. It could be grabbing passwords, contacts, personal or financial information. They then can sell or use that information.
That’s the biggest reason malware exists, so that someone can profit from it. Still there are some cases where malware is used simply to cause havoc. The questions you should ask yourself: “Am I protected?” and “Do I need to be protected?”
Do you need to be protected? Yes, that’s the bottom line. Unless, you don’t own a computer, smartphone, or tablet. Whether you go online or not there is always a risk of exposure to malware. So are you protected? That’s easy to see by checking your system to see what security software if any is installed.
Wait, but I can’t find any security software on my device? Your best bet is to head over to Eset, Norton, or Mcafee and purchase a license. These are the top dogs in the industry and will provide you with the protections you need. With Eset go for Smart Security for PC, Cyber Security Pro for Mac and Mobile Security for Android. These guys are my number one choice for protecting my systems. Norton has Norton 360 for PC and Internet Security for Mac. Mcafee has Total Protection. Yes, these are the top tier products which is what you should be using to protect yourself.
But, But, what about that free security software? Yes, they are useful if and only if you have no other choice. Microsoft Security Essentials, AVG Free, Avira and others provide limited protection and fewer updates. While they will protect against older known threats, they may not always protect against the latest threats. Malware is ever changing and the big dogs at Eset, Norton, and Mcafee have designed their products to guard against this newer threats. Think about buying gasoline for your car. The free versions are like putting 60% water with 40% gas as opposed to the big dogs being 100% gas. Which will you get more mileage from? Exactly. While some gas is better than no gas, the same goes for security software. Although you can see a full tank of gas is best, so is the full priced security software.
As always, I recommend the best. Eset has proven themselves at the top and continue to innovate this critical area. In Version 6 of Eset Smart Security they have included Theft Protection at no additional cost. Most vendors would charge extra for this. So be proactive and protect your devices right away. Myself, when purchasing a new computer or reinstalling Windows, is to remove any trial security (if any) and install Eset Smart Security right away and before any other software.