From your name, phone, number, and address, to your pictures and videos, a lot of your sensitive data is online in the information age. You must protect this data because hackers can use it to commit various cybercrimes. But its important to look at these myths about online security busted.
For example, a hacker may use your private information to log into your financial accounts and steal your money or use your credit cards. They may use your pictures and videos to blackmail you or sell them to the highest bidder on the Dark Web.
Hackers usually use malware like spyware or ransomware or social engineering attacks like phishing expeditions or Trojan horses to achieve their goals. Protecting yourself from such advanced threats requires awareness and the right defense tools. Complacency is your enemy. Here are some misconceptions about online security that you should be aware of:
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Myth #1 Windows Default Security Tools Are Enough
Many PC users assume that their Windows default security tools are sufficient because they have become more secure with each generation. Sure, traditional computer viruses are less of a threat nowadays, but this isn’t just because your operating system’s antivirus tools have enhanced signature-based technology to combat them.
While a computer virus can spread chaos by corrupting your files, it isn’t a profitable tool for a hacker. Instead, people with malicious intent use adware, spyware, ransomware, and more to earn money. Experts find that the default security tools on Windows are subpar against malware threats like ransomware. That’s why you need to download advanced antivirus software that has anti-malware technology, which crushes sophisticated malware threats.
Myth #2 Macs Don’t Get Viruses
Even today, many Mac users believe that Apple products don’t get viruses and other types of malware. This misconception came about partially due to Apple’s marketing campaign in the 90s where they claimed that Macs don’t get viruses.
Are Macs more secure than Windows-powered PCs? Yes, they are. But this doesn’t mean that they’re immune to malware. As Apple’s market share has grown, threat actors have launched more malware attacks against Macs.
So, if you’re asking yourself: can Macs get viruses and other types of malware? The answer is a resounding yes. For example, the 2020 State of Malware Report finds that malware threats per endpoint are now higher on Macs than Windows.
As a Mac user, you need advanced antivirus software that can remediate all types of malware. Otherwise, your machine may be susceptible to threats like Silver Sparrow, which affects about 40,000 Macs, including those powered by Apple’s new M1 chip.
Myth #3 Free Antivirus Software is Sufficient
Download proactive antivirus software that protects you from various malware threats and doesn’t spy on you, blast your screen your ads or overloads your system. Usually, good anti-malware software offers a trial run.
Free antivirus software often makes its money by selling your data and invading your security and privacy. For example, a leading free antivirus company was caught spying on its users. The antivirus company eventually shut down its marketing analytics subsidiary, but not before shattering customer confidence.
Do your research if you’re concerned about cybersecurity. Download advanced antivirus software that offers a complete defense and doesn’t breach your trust.
