Despite the clear dangers, many users still overlook the importance of safeguarding their computers with security software. The process of selecting, installing, and configuring an antivirus, not to mention the system resources it consumes, might seem daunting and unnecessary. However, it’s crucial to remember that safety measures, though they might appear excessive, prove their worth when you most need them.

Understanding Malware Protection

Let’s start by defining malware. The term “malware” — short for “malicious software” — encompasses a variety of harmful programs designed to infiltrate and damage computers. Besides malware, there are non-executable scripts and other network threats like phishing, which doesn’t rely on directly infecting a computer with programs.

Now let us see what malware does from the standpoint of the attacker. The list of damages types below may not be exhaustive, but it summarizes the harm hackers usually inflict by malware nowadays and the reason for such their activities.

Data Theft via Spyware

Hackers deploy spyware, a category of malware, to execute data theft. This group includes diverse programs with a common espionage function. For instance, keyloggers record all keystrokes, while rogue browsers spy on online activities. Their capabilities vary: some might only transfer your browsing history to third parties, while others can record keystrokes or intercept your internet traffic.

Beyond the immediate privacy invasion, spyware also consumes CPU resources in the background, slowing down your computer.

The most severe risk of spyware is identity theft, which can have devastating consequences, including the loss of financial credentials and all the money in your account.

Cryptocurrency Mining Malware

Specialized malware, often introduced to systems as Trojans or downloaded by other Trojans, exists solely to use the infected device’s resources for mining cryptocurrency for others. This process, which involves cryptographic tasks, is handled by the victim’s CPU.

Infected devices typically experience reduced processing speeds and slower internet connections as a result of these mining activities.

Botnet Involvement

Botnets are networks of malware-infected computers controlled remotely by hackers. This collective control allows hackers to perform large-scale operations like DDoS attacks or massive automated posting, activities that are impossible with a single machine. Furthermore, a botnet can propagate itself, potentially growing to tens of millions of infected devices.

For users, the signs of a botnet infection include an overloaded CPU and unexplained internet traffic, with most botnet activities occurring without their knowledge.

Adware: Turning Browsing into a Billboard

Adware encompasses a wide range of software, including overt malware and potentially unwanted applications (PUPs). Malicious adware transforms your browsing experience into a barrage of distractions, reminiscent of the Las Vegas Strip, with bright flashing banners constantly appearing and obstructing your view. Additionally, adware can embed advertisement links within the text of web pages you visit to provoke accidental clicks. Some adware even extends beyond your browser, displaying ads throughout the operating system.

Adware may manifest as easy-to-remove browser extensions, rogue browsers, or various “handy” applications. Some adware operates covertly, appearing only as unremarkable processes in your Task Manager.

The negative effects of adware are obvious and typically prompt users to cleanse their computers. If you find adware on your system, removing it is crucial, as its presence can lead to further malware infections.

Ransomware: Encrypting Data for Ransom

Ransomware is one of the most destructive types of malware. Once it infiltrates a device, it encrypts all data files of specific types, making access to these files impossible, and leaves a ransom note demanding payment in cryptocurrency. The note details the payment amount necessary for the decryption key, which cybercriminals typically provide after receiving the ransom—this ensures that future victims also pay, trusting the scheme will resolve their issues.

Ransomware attacks have become a highly profitable malware-based enterprise, generating millions in annual revenue for perpetrators and are now more rampant than ever. For more insights, read about the business model of ransomware.

Taking Control Over the System with Rootkits

Rootkits represent a particularly perilous class of malware due to their ability to grant hackers administrative-like control over a system. Found at rootkits, these programs are notorious for their capability to create a backdoor—an unauthorized pathway circumventing access controls. This backdoor allows hackers to issue commands directly from the core of the infected system, with potential damages limited only by the attackers’ objectives.

The threat of rootkits highlights the necessity for robust system security measures to detect and counteract such invasive control.

Recognizing Symptoms of Malware Infection

Understanding the symptoms of a malware infection is crucial for early detection and response. This section summarizes the key signs to watch for, regardless of the specific type of malware affecting your device. By paying close attention to these indicators, you may be able to identify the type of malware based on the symptoms alone.

• Slow PC and Crashing Programs: Various types of malware, especially those like cryptocurrency miners, operate in the background, consuming substantial system resources. This can noticeably decrease your PC’s performance and cause frequent program crashes.
• Lack of Storage: Some malware types use significant amounts of hard drive space, leaving insufficient room for your regular activities.
• Slow Internet: Malware can also degrade your Internet speed by generating background traffic that consumes your bandwidth.
• Spam Reports: If friends report spam from your email or social media accounts, it’s likely that malware has hijacked your accounts.
• Advertising Pop-ups: Unexpected ads and unfamiliar applications are common signs of adware infection. These can be both annoying and risky if they lead to inadvertent clicks.
• Weird Extensions Added to Data Files: This is a hallmark of ransomware. Encrypted files become inaccessible, and a ransom is demanded for their release— a harsh reminder of the dangers of online carelessness.

Not Only Malware Protection

Enhancing cybersecurity involves more than just installing software; it requires a proactive approach to safeguard your digital environment. Staying vigilant is crucial, especially within a workgroup. Educating your team on basic security principles can significantly reduce the risk of malware infections which often exploit human errors such as inattention and gullibility through social engineering tactics. For example, phishing attacks might not always carry malware directly, but they frequently aim to compromise devices as part of their strategy. You can learn how to recognize and avoid phishing scams to better protect yourself.

Another vital measure is to be wary of unknown email attachments, links, or banners. Malware commonly infiltrates systems through scripts embedded in files or websites that users inadvertently access. Regular updates to your operating system are also essential; they minimize vulnerabilities and boost the efficacy of antivirus solutions. Stay informed about the latest security practices to keep your system robust against threats.

Furthermore, employing two-factor authentication wherever possible can drastically enhance the security of your online accounts, effectively minimizing the risk of unauthorized access. Lastly, the cornerstone of a solid cybersecurity strategy is the installation of trustworthy antivirus software. A vigilant approach, combined with reliable security programs, forms the most effective defense, detecting and eliminating threats before they can cause any damage.

How Malware Protection Can Help?

We were going to discuss the benefits of using malware protection, and now, let’s delve into what an antivirus does. Consider the example of Gridinsoft Malicious Software Removal. This program offers comprehensive triple protection.

The first layer is On-Run Protection. The program monitors all new files on your machine. Before any incoming file can cause damage, it scans it. If identified as malicious or unwanted, the file is immediately quarantined, allowing the user to decide whether to delete it or restore it.

Next, there’s Internet Protection. This function blocks hazardous websites and alerts you about suspicious ones. Websites are deemed dangerous if they contain malicious scripts or lack an SSL certificate. These blocks and warnings, though overridable, provide essential protection in most scenarios.

The most thorough option is the Deep Scan. You can choose the scope of the scan: a more comprehensive scan takes longer but increases the likelihood of detecting and eliminating malware. Some malware types can only be uncovered and removed through such in-depth scanning.

Malware Protection Parting Wishes

By integrating various virus detection methods, Gridinsoft products showcase versatility and effectiveness, performing robustly on both home and corporate devices. You can deploy this software as your primary security system or as a supplementary antivirus scanner. Its cost-effectiveness is matched by its efficacy.

As for the general benefits of using antivirus software, they are undeniable. Threats may seem distant until they directly impact you. Cybersecurity is no exception to this rule. However, any doubts about the necessity of antivirus will likely dissipate after the first successful interception of a dangerous Trojan, ideally neutralized by your antivirus.

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There are several reasons for this, and we will explore them further below. It is worth clarifying that it is normal for such a message to appear on a corporate device. But this is not all right if you see this on a Home PC. Today, I’ve gathered the most effective ways to fix this issue.

“Virus and Threat Protection Page Not Available” – What Does It Mean?

The message “Virus and Threat Protection Page Not Available” indicates trouble accessing Windows Security features. This means that, for some reason, the application cannot display the interface requested by the user. The virus and threat protection page comprehensively overviews your device’s security status. It displays relevant information about the antivirus software you are using, your device’s firewall status, and other enabled security features.

Windows Security is a built-in antivirus software developed by Microsoft. Initially, it was designed to protect against simple security threats like malware or viruses. However, now it’s an all-in-one tool that includes complex defense against phishing and other cyber attacks. It includes Virus and threat Protection, Account Protection, Firewall and network Protection, App and Browser Control, Device Security, Device Performance and health, and Family Options. Well, this doesn’t always work out properly, and now I will tell you why.

Why Is The Virus And Threat Protection Page Not Available?

Usually, to access Windows Security, you click on the Windows Security icon from the taskbar, or open the menu from the settings. If everything works correctly, you can access the menu with no problems. However, if Windows Security is unavailable, an error message will appear saying “Page not available”. Here are a few reasons for this to happen.

Specific OS edition.

Windows Enterprise or LTSC editions can have security features disabled by default. You can see the edition of your Windows copy by going to Settings → System → About, and checking the Windows specifications.

Normally, it is possible to change the security settings back to normal. I will show you how to do this later in this post.

Improper OS settings after the reset

After resetting your OS, the virus and threat protection settings may not be configured correctly. Reasons for this are particularly hard to trace, but figuring that out is in fact just a waste of time. You can solve the issue in just a few clicks in this case.

Windows ISO obtained from unofficial sources

Obtaining a Windows image from questionable or pirated sources can result in missing or disabling essential security features. This is because the authors of such builds often try to make them as easy as possible by disabling “unnecessary” features. It is noteworthy that the antivirus function is often the first to be disabled.

Incompatibility with third-party antivirus

Sometimes, third-party antivirus tools may not be compatible with Windows Security. This is because two or more antimalware apps try to control or modify the same system resources simultaneously. This can lead to conflicts, malfunctions, or even complete functionality disabling.

Malware activity

Malware compromising system security settings could cause the “virus and threat protection page not available” notification. It can cause severe damage to your system, including data loss and theft. Since most average users only use the built-in Windows protection, any malware will obviously try to neutralize it first.

How to Fix the Virus and Threat Protection Page Not Available Error?

Despite having quite a few possible reasons to happen, Virus and Threat Protection Page Not Available error is rather easy to fix. All the troubleshooting boils down to understanding why it happened – I’ve named the reasons above. Now, let’s switch to actual troubleshooting.

1. Uninstall third-party security software

Today, most third-party antivirus solutions work well when paired with Microsoft Defender. However, some applications still require disabling the built-in Microsoft Defender to work correctly. If you have a third-party antivirus installed, try uninstalling it.

2. Update Your Windows

Cybersecurity threats evolve constantly, and software vulnerabilities can be exploited by malicious actors to gain unauthorized access or cause harm to your system. Windows updates can resolve existing security problems and ensure your computer runs optimally. It often includes patches and fixes for known security vulnerabilities.

Open Settings from Start and select Update & Security and click Check for updates under Windows Update.

This may take some time, especially if you’ve ignored the latest system updates for some time. Nonetheless, it is worth waiting, as the chances of this solving the issue are high.

3. Repair and Restart Windows Security

Despite Windows being a pretty stable operating system, sometimes uninstalling third-party software can corrupt the Windows Defender files. So, you can try resetting the Windows Security app, which may help run it back (for Windows 11 only).

First, click on the search icon or box on your taskbar. Then, search for “Windows Security.”

Here, select the Windows Security App and click the “App settings” option on the right panel.

Click on the “Terminate” button. After that, restart your computer to check if the error message is resolved.

If the issue persists, follow the same steps to access the Windows Security settings interface. Then, click on the “Reset” button to reset Windows Security.

Restart your computer again to ensure all the changes are applied successfully.

These were relatively simple ways of solving the problem that should have helped. However, if the issue of Virus and Threat Protection is unavailable persists, go on to more sophisticated solutions I’ve gathered below.

4. Run SFC and DISM

SFC and DISM are command-line tools that detect and repair system corruptions in Windows. If you can’t find Virus and threat protection on Windows 10/11 due to a system bug or corrupted image, use either tool to fix the issue. To repair your computer, follow these instructions:

Click on the Start menu and search for “Command Prompt”.

Right-click on “Command Prompt” and select “Run as administrator”.

To repair your system files using SFC, enter or paste the following into the Command Prompt window and press Enter: “sfc /scannow“.

To repair your system files using DISM, enter or paste the command into the Command Prompt window and press Enter: “DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth“.

5. Disable UI Lockdown

Sometimes, the reason for Virus and Threat Protection Page Not Available issue is a disabled Windows Defender interface. This happens due to the activation of a so-called UI Lockdown. To fix this, run PowerShell as administrator and run the “Set-MpPreference -UILockdown 0” command. This will enable UI, fixing the Virus and Threat Protection Page Not Available issue.

6. Change the registry keys through Regedit

If the issue persists, you can manually add a few values using Regedit. To begin, open Regedit by pressing Win+R and typing “regedit” in the Run dialog box, then press Enter.

Once you are in Regedit, navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows Defender. Right-click the empty area and select New → DWORD (32-bit) value.

Next, give the value a name: DisableAntispyware. Similarly, create another value with the name DisableRealtimeMonitoring. Leave the default value of 0 for both values.

Close the Registry Editor and restart your system. After restarting, check if Microsoft Defender is available with its apps.

7. Using Local Group Policy

One more option is adjusting the Local Group Policy, responsible for Microsoft Defender. This may be the result of a malware activity, as well as the effect of an antivirus software conflicting with the Defender. Fixing this requires entering the Group Policies menu.

Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box and type or paste this: gpedit.msc. Go to Computer Configuration → Administrative Templates → Windows Components.

Open Windows Security and navigate to the Virus and Threat Protection option.

Double-click the Hide the virus and threat protection area and select Not Configured.

Restart your PC to apply the new settings and try running the feature.

Install Compatible Anti-malware

As I said at the beginning, this could result from malware activity. Most malware targets the built-in Windows defenses, which explains a lot. In such cases, I recommend using a third-party solution. However, it is equally important that the third-party solution works well with the built-in solution.

That’s why I recommend GridinSoft Anti-Malware. It works perfectly with Microsoft Defender and does not burden the system. After installation, run a full scan, which will completely clean the system.

Download and install Anti-Malware by clicking the button below. After the installation, run a Full scan: this will check all the volumes present in the system, including hidden folders and system files. Scanning will take around 15 minutes.

After the scan, you will see the list of detected malicious and unwanted elements. It is possible to adjust the actions that the antimalware program does to each element: click "Advanced mode" and see the options in the drop-down menus. You can also see extended information about each detection - malware type, effects and potential source of infection.

Click "Clean Now" to start the removal process. Important: removal process may take several minutes when there are a lot of detections. Do not interrupt this process, and you will get your system as clean as new.

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But among the simplified solutions, that offer only essential anti-malware functionality, it is also hard to make a decision. We recommend you to use GridinSoft Anti-Malware, and let me give you 15 reasons to choose it.

1. High detection rates

The most important quality of any anti-malware program is its ability to correctly detect and remove the hazards. It can have a bunch of other positives, but the main function is obliged to be as good as possible. And GridinSoft Anti-Malware shows perfect protection against a wide range of threats present in the wild. All kinds of adware, trojan viruses, malicious scripts and questionable programs – they shall not pass the security layer created by GridinSoft Anti-Malware. Such a high level of protection is available thanks to the advanced scanning system and diligent work of malware analysts, who upload the database updates as often as possible.

2. Advanced detection systems

GridinSoft Anti-Malware manages 3 different detection mechanisms – the “classic” database-backed detection, heuristic engine and neural network. The former does not need any introduction, since it is the alpha and omega of all antiviruses. But let’s have a closer look at heuristic and neural detection mechanisms.

3. High resource efficiency

PC performance is an object of concern of the vast majority of users. Installing any software that is about to run in the background means risking to have significant decrease of the PC speed. GridinSoft developers paid additional attention to that aspect, in order to make their program as resource-efficient as possible, even having your proactive features on. You will barely feel the impact of this program running in the background – it takes almost less than 1% of CPU power and ~300 MB RAM. Compared to things like Windows Defender, which consumes 5-10% of CPU and up to 1GB RAM, it is literally nothing.

4. Simple interface

Have you ever struggled with a huge number of tabs in the programs? Some of the antiviruses, especially ones that have a lot of unnecessary functions, have this problem. But GridinSoft Anti-Malware is the other story – it offers a clear interface with all important functions and information available at the glance. Functions and settings are logically divided on categories, corresponding to their purpose, and the detailed info (scan logs or update changelogs) is available in just several clicks.

5. Full-time support

Having problems on your PC? Think something is broken inside of your operating system? Struggle to make a decision in our program? Support specialists will help you to solve any case, at any moment of time. GridinSoft Anti-Malware licence features the 24/7 multilingual tech support, so you will definitely receive the proper answer. For tough cases, the manager can offer extended support – via the remote connection. Such an approach will definitely help you to solve the issue.

6. High compatibility

Even in 2022, people still use old operating systems for certain reasons. Some people don’t want to update because of the hardware requirements, some dislike the new appearance of the OS, and some users don’t want to lose the compatibility with the programs they use. GridinSoft Anti-Malware will perfectly fit all of these categories, offering the support for a wide range of Windows versions. It will successfully run on Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8/8.1, 10 and 11 – a timeline of more than 20 years of software development. And on any of these versions the security tool from GridinSoft will show an excellent efficiency.

Moreover, GridinSoft Anti-Malware also works perfectly with other antimalware and antivirus software. For people who want to have several security solutions running together, it will be a perfect addition. You will never see any detection conflicts, and the modest resource consumption will not interfere with the other programs’ efficiency.

7. Setup flexibility

Despite the easy-to-use interface, GridinSoft Anti-Malware offers a wide range of settings that will fit different users. Scanning schedule, use of heuristic rules during scans, ability to adjust the startup settings, and manage the active modules of the proactive protection – that will be enough to personalise the experience as much as possible. GridinSoft Anti-Malware is designed with an idea to give the users the right to choose the program mode it wants.

8. Reasonable price

Most of the antivirus solutions contain a huge amount of functions, which are about to be paid for regardless of the fact you use them or not. When it comes to GridinSoft Anti-Malware, you pay only for the functions you will definitely use – exactly, the genuine anti-malware software features. For an annual licence, you have to pay only $40 – or less, if you will use a discount that is available multiple times a year. You will not find the same functionality & efficiency combination for this money.

9. Nothing excessive

In the previous paragraph, we mentioned the services and features available in GridinSoft Anti-Malware. It does not feature keychain, additional traffic controlling or VPN service. In the developers’ opinion, users can decide if they want to use one, and must not obligatory pay for them. On the other hand, you receive a full bunch of various features that are really needed for the anti-malware software – a full-featured proactive protection, quarantine, and various tools for system recovery. Isn’t that a fair swap?

10. Constant database updates

The efficiency of anti-malware programs is measured by their detection quality. That is, exactly, the most important part of the program – low detection capabilities make it just a useless app. But even the most advanced detection databases & mechanisms are getting outdated with time, and their detection rates fall inexorably. New malware appears each day, and to retain the effectiveness, you should update the databases as often as possible. GridinSoft Anti-Malware receives database updates each hour, so even the most fresh malware will be taken into account pretty quickly.

11. Trial and Demo mode

Any purchase must be rated correspondingly, after weighting all pros and cons for yourself. That’s why trial mode in GridinSoft Anti-Malware makes it possible for you to test it from all aspects. 6 days of full functionality within the trial licence is enough to feel all qualities of this program, get familiar with the interface and have some real-world testing.

But even in the situation when you did not purchase the licence, you are still able to scan your device for threats in Demo mode. It is able to detect the malware, but cannot remove it, and lacks proactive protection features. This mode provides the testing capabilities as well – but can’t show you the real potential of GridinSoft Anti-Malware.

12. System applications repairing capabilities

Modern malware pretty often exploits the operating system vulnerabilities in order to conduct its activities. When it is removed, the touched system elements remain damaged, and it is very important to fix them. Contrary to the third party apps, that may be changed as well, modified system elements may cause errors and even system failure. GridinSoft Anti-Malware is able to effectively find and repair the system elements that were damaged by malware, saving you from manual recovery.

13. Browser reset functions

Nasty malware types that show us advertisements of different forms, like adware and browser hijackers, generally act through modifying your browser settings. They invade each web browser you have on your device, to show you the ads wherever you go. Even after removing viruses from your PC, your browsers will keep the changes made by malware. GridinSoft Anti-Malware has the ability to revert these changes in all browsers in a single click – thanks to the Reset Browser Settings function. A single click – and your browser is as good as new.

14. Multi-layer on-run protection

On-run protection, also known as proactive protection, is a very useful feature that controls the application activity on your computer. Each launch of the application and each opened folder are monitored by the anti-malware program. GridinSoft Anti-Malware checks-up processes and directories with a three-part system – databases, heuristics and neural network. Using all three systems makes it impossible to miss the malware – it will definitely be detected and defused, even if it was not active at the moment.

The On-Run Protection function in GridinSoft Anti-Malware can have two additional functions. Besides the basic scanning of all activities, it also can act as a network monitor, and removable devices scanner. The former will be very effective in blocking the unwanted websites, that may expose your PC to a hazard. Removable Device scanning is a function that checks all of the connected storage devices, both removable drives or USB flash drives. That will safeguard your computer from the intrusion from most of the typical malware spreading vectors.

15. Quarantine

Sometimes, neither the program nor the user is sure that the detected file is dangerous. To give the time gap and chance to choose, GridinSoft Anti-Malware features threat quarantine. That is, exactly, the separated area on the disk, where the blocked files are stored until the decision is made, or the 30-day term is expired. Items in Quarantine are impossible to launch and interact with the rest of the system, so even dangerous stuff does not put your system into a hazard.

Try out GridinSoft Anti-Malware

You have seen a lot of arguments that prove the efficiency and convenience of GridinSoft Anti-Malware. This security tool has great functionality for a reasonable price. The features this program has make it really superior to its contemporaries. Having a try of this application for 6 days will surely dot all the i’s. And the support managers will be glad to answer any of the questions regarding the program functionality.

The post 15 Reasons to Choose GridinSoft Anti-Malware appeared first on Gridinsoft Blog.

Just read recent news headlines from the IT field. A whole cyber war even unfolds for the first time in history, to say the least. Ransomware ravages like never before. Various banking trojans lurking out there in the corners of the internet and phishing, smishing, and other species from flora and fauna of the cyber world — all for your data. But no, we are not on the brink of a cyber apocalypse. Yet.

Now seriously. You have first to understand one and the most obvious thing is that you can’t just use all the technologies now available without someone parallelly trying to exploit it for illegal purposes. Cybercrimes all around the world have become much more lucrative illegal activities than robbing banks or selling drugs on the corner of the street.

Old and new kinds of crimes together with workplaces steadily moving onto the internet to enjoy more wide and bright possibilities. And you as a diligent digital citizen should first of all attend to your security and safety in the particular environment. The irony is also that you can be just one click away from some ransomware operator or banking trojan. Of course, you should be ready in case they show an interest in you.

Below, we explain in every particular reason example why it’s most crucial to have an antivirus solution on board in case some cyber threat does arise.

Companies and enterprises save up on money with antiviruses

Let’s just say they can save up a lot if it’s a ransomware attack that has been thwarted, for example. But talking about more down-to-earth threats, a company can avoid much fewer problems with its cybersecurity by simply having some antivirus in place.

We can say these even without any statistics to mention that daily, workers at some companies can encounter up to ten on average malicious emails and it’s good cyber training of your employees if they can recognize the threat and report it to your IT team. But why do cybercriminals still do what they do even if we seem to know everything about their moves?

It’s because the human factor is still in place and it will be unless we replace human workers with robots. But where a worker has missed the signs of maliciousness the antivirus solution surely won’t miss. It’s a nice kind of balance when your workers have the general knowledge of potential cyber threats paired together with reliable and trustworthy antivirus solutions.

To compare sums of money you could spend on remediating the consequences of a cyber security breach and those spent on buying a license for an antivirus solution they vary significantly. On the internet, you can find various statistics on how much this or that company lost in revenue due to cyber-attacks and their consequences. To add here companies and enterprises are becoming more common targets for threat actors than individuals.

Apart from your computer other pieces of network hardware need antivirus security protection as well

Even if you own a small company it also needs protection not only of its PCs but other usual components of workplaces like VPNs, network attached storage (NAS), servers and remote desktops. All of them are important parts of any company’s workflow and when one of the elements is out of the flow it significantly can hinder the operations.

Basically, on any entry point you should have the security protection in place as no one can see and it’s hard to predict in advance where the next strike will happen. If some threat actors have a more than usual interest in any potential victim they will find their ways, but in vain as they should face the counterattack by an antivirus solution.

To add more to the paragraph it needs to be said that in recent years due to the pandemic when everything massively went online one of the most popular attack vectors became remote desktop. Because of its functions, remote desktops prove themselves to be quite an ideal thing for threat actors to exploit. The most well-known instances of cyber attacks on companies involved the abuse of remote desktops.

However one must add that an antivirus alone can’t guarantee one hundred percent protection if there are no general cyber hygiene rules your employees follow. You also need to have firewalls so that threat actors cannot easily get access to you via the already mentioned remote desktop. Make it for everyone a rule to have strong and complex passwords as well as usernames.

You also need antivirus protection at home

Don’t forget about the security of your home PC. With the beginning of the pandemic, many people started working remotely and usually individuals are easier targets for threat actors meaning more attacks are specifically directed at them. The most common thing threat actors target their victims with is phishing emails.

These malicious and fake correspondences often have attachments with malware that will initiate the next stage of an attack like delivering the payload of some banking trojan. Sometimes threat actors attach malicious documents like spreadsheets with malicious macros in place. Once a victim opens the received email the embedded malware gets into action.

And not only malicious emails lurking out there for their victim, but other kinds of no less nefarious entities trying their best at succeeding in their actions like info stealers, keyloggers, and browser hijackers; you just could have no less.

Antivirus can protect you from potential dangers coming from removable devices

Quite a portion of threats can also come from removable devices that so many of us still use. Removable media pose much threat to users and their devices even more than the other devices under threat can. Not only that the removable devices often the carriers of several malware they can also be targets for threats from infected PCs.

Because they are a very convenient choice for cybercriminals and also because of their more obvious weakness and susceptibility against malware and viruses, many companies and even individuals already said no to removable media. Many large enterprises and companies have explicitly forbidden the usage and storage of any work-related data on them.

But the complete ban on these particular devices doesn’t concern all average home users and there are still many people who prefer to store their valuable and sensitive information on removable media. For many people, cloud storage seems more unreliable than removable devices.

In any way you happen to use these devices don’t forget to make regular scans of them as well. Have your antivirus solution enabled once you insert the device into your computer because the infection gets to you from the removable media once you connect it to your machine? An antivirus will be in a much need especially if you use someone else’s removable media.

The rule is just simple any removable media you connect can be infected and then it can infect you, or the case might be that you connect your own or someone else’s removable device to your computer and you already have some infection, then all data on that inserted device is also under more than sure danger.

If it’s some ransomware that has begun encryption of your files then when you insert a removable device files on it will also get encrypted. And these are more reasons to add to why you need an antivirus solution.

Antivirus helps you to prolong your computer’s lifespan

It should be an obvious thing to understand that without getting your computer infected the machine can no longer serve you. It won’t need a repairman to mend the consequences of the malware attack. You won’t waste any time bringing your computer from service and back, and before that spend some time figuring out by yourself the first symptoms of malware infection.

Not to mention that malware causes some additional troubles like stealing or distorting your data, messing with your browser work, or even exploiting your stolen credentials to conduct further assaults on other people.

Specialists from the field say it is that having an antivirus on board will make your computer live longer and work with no less efficiency. It’s understandable because when malware gets onto your machine it can’t but interfere with the normal workflow of the targeted computer.

If it’s a wiper kind of malware once it gets onto the machine it completely makes the computer wholly inoperable, because how are you supposed to work with a computer that has all its hard disk wiped? The other kinds of malware work no less diligently.

But all the negative consequences of malware infection can be remediated when you have an antivirus in play. Some of the products offer you not only standard things like detection, deletion, and quarantine of files but the restoration of your browser settings, and Windows host files. So that if you have post-infection symptoms on your computer you can mitigate that.

Conclusions

Beyond the reasons mentioned, the antivirus can also offer you additional functions like parental control, website access control, and blocking spam/ads. Some of these offers can play an important role in your cyber world. Many antivirus vendors these days include such optional variants in the main package and it’s hard not to say that parents need parental control options with today’s ubiquitous use of the internet particularly because of schools taking place online.

No less importance can be assigned to blocking spam/ads options when these things misclicked often lead to a full-blown infection. Another thing spam – when an antivirus program can detect if an email is malicious and prevent the cyber security breach. You don’t always notice something that can be an obvious sign of danger for specifically designed for the matter software. If you can click away an ad that suddenly pops up on your screen and be safe, but with spam you can be tricked into believing you received a package tracking email from Amazon, for example.

With all that being said it’s also right to say that even if you are confident with yourself and your actions in the cyber world sometimes it’s better to give the task to detect and remove something specifically here to help you with these.

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