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3 reasons you should consider antivirus software

How secure is your computer or device without it?

 

The Daily Dot Bazaar

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Posted on Dec 8, 2016   Updated on Sep 27, 2021, 1:52 pm CDT

Antivirus software has been around as long as free internet on CDs. These days, built-in security features and free software offer protection to modern computers and smartphones. 

It may seem redundant to add antivirus software to your machines, but how safe is your computer or device without it?

Using best cybersecurity practices is helpful, but there are some things that you can’t control. Consider these circumstances as ways antivirus software might be best for you.  

1) As technology advances, so does cybercrime.

While it’s become easier to detect a site that doesn’t look reputable, even the most unassuming sites can be suspect to compromise. Technology improvements have introduced new cybercrime techniques, including keyloggers, ransomware, zero-day, phishing and more. It’s not just an issue for Windows users, either — Mac and Linux computers and devices are susceptible as well.

While it’s important to know what kinds of risks are out there, you shouldn’t suffer the consequences for missing the latest trend in cybercrime. Norton’s antivirus software products protect you from advanced threats and can keep your whole family covered.

2) It helps you see the unforeseeable.

Even if you’re vigilant, small actions as harmless as opening your browser can lead to your private and personal information in the wrong hands. According to the Symantec Internet Security Report, more than one million web attacks were reported in 2015.

Before you brush off that number as irresponsible computer users, know this: Many hackers found a main access point through legitimate websites, 75 percent of which still had vulnerabilities left unpatched. Rather than putting your online identity and personal information at risk, antivirus software secures your information, and stops you from being exposed to vulnerabilities before you find out the hard way.

3) Mobile is just as susceptible.

It may seem like a no-brainer to protect your computer, but what about your phone? Public Wi-Fi spots are hacker gold since they are often unprotected, which makes it easier to access your information.

It’s best practice to avoid logging into any personal accounts (banks, social media, email, etc.) on unprotected Wi-Fi networks, and avoid downloading anything out of the official app store of your operating system. But it’s better to cover yourself across all platforms. Norton’s antivirus software not only protects you from being attacked while on the go, it also alerts you about risky apps before you download them.

Norton software adds extra layers of security to your online presence with its three different software programs: Standard, Deluxe, or Premium.

The programs depend on your needs: Norton Standard protects one device, while Deluxe protects five. Norton Premium can protect up to 10 devices on a single subscription, and includes bonus features, like automatically backing up photos and documents, plus 25GB of secure cloud storage.

Right now, Norton’s offering a holiday discount to new subscribers. Prices range between $39.99-$59.99 for the first year. That saves you up to $50 off the regular price.

Sign up here.

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*First Published: Dec 8, 2016, 7:13 am CST