This content originally appeared on Mashable for a US audience and has been adapted for the UK audience.
Are you safe online? It’s easy to think that cybercrime is something that happens to other people, but it’s more common than you might think. Every year, cyber criminals get more creative in their attempts to hack your data, steal your information, or spy on you in your home. When a malicious virus is able to replicate itself from one computer file to the next, how can you stop your computer from getting infected?
Luckily, there are all kinds of viable software options to detect, prevent, and deter these threats from impacting you. However, selecting the right software to keep your information safe can quickly get complicated. Are you looking to protect just your computer, or do you also want something for mobile devices and tablets? Do you have a big family that requires a lot of device authorisation, or are you just buying for one?
Additionally, you’ll have to decide whether you’re happy with antivirus and malware protection, or if you want extra layers of security like webcam protection, data encryption, password managers, and private VPNs. And if you have children, you may be looking for more comprehensive tools to protect your kids against inappropriate content.
We’re here to help. Here’s some useful information.
What is malware?
The name malware is short for “malicious software”. That means software or programs that are designed specifically to do harm to your computer. Malware can infect, damage, or shut down computers, systems, networks, tablets, and other mobile devices. The best-known malware is the computer virus. Malware usually works by taking control of any given device’s operations. It’s sometimes done to scam you for money, or even just for the hell of it.
How can you spot malware?
It’s good to be personally vigilant against malware attacks. If you don’t know much about how they work and what to look out for, we highly recommend doing some research on the topic. Good tips include watching out for “phishing” emails — these are emails that include suspicious links or ask for personal information.
How does malware protection work?
Yes, it’s good to be vigilant, but you can’t beat reliable malware protection for complete cover. Good protection does several things. It checks download programs, regularly scans the computer, and updates itself to protect against ever-evolving threats. It will also warn against suspicious websites before visiting them and protects against phishing attempts (i.e. websites that want you to input personal information such as passwords or account details). Good malware protection also protects online payments and safeguards your finances online.
How many devices are protected by malware protection?
That depends on the level — or to put it more bluntly, the cost — that you sign up for. The most basic protection will cover just one device, while more advanced versions may cover three, five, or more devices. That will also mean a range of devices, from laptops and PCs to phones and tablets.
Can you try malware protection before you buy?
Most malware protection products will offer a free trial before you make a purchase. This is important because every type of protection has its own way of working with your computer, and some will suit you and your online usage better than others.
Can you get malware protection for Windows and Macs?
Yes, absolutely. We tend to think of Macs as being virus-proof but that’s not really true. Whatever type of computer you use, there’s some type of malware out there that’s ready to attack. Windows' built-in antivirus software is better than ever before, but don't get complacent. Malware protection for any computer is important.
What is the best malware protection?
It’s hard to choose with so many options out there, but we’ve pulled together some of the most popular options, so you can decide which is a best fit for the devices you own.
This is the best malware protection software in 2024.
