Free Anti-Virus Products

The dangers and illegality of using free anti-virus products

When our computers are constantly under threat from spyware, malware and Trojans, we need reliable anti-virus protection. Once a virus has an iron like grip on your pc it’s going to take a professional to remove it successfully, and restore any damaged files. If you’ve fallen foul of a virus, you may have been told to get decent anti-virus software to protect your computer. You’re hard up so you download one of the many free anti-virus products out there. Sorted. But are you?

The dangers of free anti-virus

What you may not realise is that when you download free anti-virus software it doesn’t offer full protection. What you’re usually getting is a limited version of the full package. You may also download a full version which has a trial period and then you’ll be expected to pay the full price to keep the full protection, and if you don’t then the antivirus package may disable itself which means that again your computer is at risk.

Imposters

Another potential danger of anti-virus protection is that it may not be what it claims to be. What you believe to be a reliable free download contains its own virus, a viable way of spreading its poison into your computer that will infiltrate your personal details.

Scareware

Scareware is a pernicious malware that pops up and tells you there’s something wrong with your computer and that you must pay for anti-virus protection. You pay, the software doesn’t work, and it’s inside your computer damaging your files.

Illegality of free anti-virus downloads

These insidious free downloads are illegal, their goal is to steal your personal information. To steal your credit card details if you bank online, and to empty your bank account if possible. Trojans are some of the worst, they’ll pop up on your screen as legitimate anti-virus software – but they’re not what they claim to be. If someone infiltrate your bank account, it may be difficult to get refunded, as you may need to prove to the bank that you took the proper care to protect your computer.

Can free anti-virus products reliable?

Yes, there are free antivirus software downloads that are completely reliable, but ask an IT professional to recommend one. Cybercriminals are constantly updating their methods to get into your computer so make sure that if you do decide on free software, you choose something that constantly updates. This means you’ll have up to date antivirus software protection that can really stop your computer from falling foul of any spyware, malware or Trojans.

However, be aware that most free antivirus software does not protect your Internet activities.

Forewarned is forearmed

Computer viruses are becoming more sophisticated by the day; it is up to you to make sure your computer is safe. Antivirus software for your computer has to be good enough to do the job. You need sophisticated software to protect yourself from the cyber criminal’s dirty tricks. If you must download free software make sure it’s one you can trust, or you could pay a heavy price. A hasty decision could lose you your computer and empty your bank account. Don’t leave it to chance. BeanIT can advise you of the best antivirus solution for your needs.

 

0 replies

Leave a Reply

Want to join the discussion?
Feel free to contribute!

Leave a Reply

Please complete the required fileds, marked *