Every other day, we see so many reports and warnings of cyber attacks that hit the airwaves; this may leave the privacy-concerned users feeling a lot more unsafe than they should since anybody connected to the Internet is possibly a target for these tech-savvy crooks. This is one of the causes why antivirus businesses are spending the mighty dollar on commercials intended to aware the people about using the internet without any protection.
Despite all this, there have been various reports where antivirus software was seen to be employed to spy on its user’s activity. With such plights on the rise, one can only help but wonder, could my antivirus possibly be spying on me? Let us learn how to prevent your Antivirus from spying on you. (Also check, If you are using the Hotspot Shield VPN, the Privacy Leak Danger Awaits You)
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How to Prevent Your Antivirus From Spying On You
Can Antivirus Apps Monitor Your Activities?
Apparently, it seems crazy that the very business you’ve entrusted to keep your browsing safe can take advantage of their access to your device and monitor your activity. What can they probably do with the data they find? Apparently market it off to third parties who then form a profile of what kind of customer you could be, and what type of things you’re likely to buy. Either way, it’s an infringement on privacy, and it’s also the situation you can take steps to evade.
Kaspersky Antivirus Software -Spying On Its Us Users
It’s nearly a sure bet that you’ve likely come across the Kaspersky antivirus software client on a friend or colleagues computer, and that is if you don’t already have it set up on your own. Kaspersky is one of the most famous antivirus clients, and they have their software working on more than 400 million computing devices based all around the world.
For a Russian company, they’ve done pretty well for themselves in attaining a global footprint. It’s possible that this might however not be the case for long, judging by the US government’s decision to ban its use on American soil, after a hunch that their software was being used by Russia to gather information on US intelligence. Despite the claims being denied by the Russian firm; we’re yet to see whether the scandal will cast a dark shadow over the company’s reputation, and result in a decrease in consumers.
Prevent Your Antivirus From Spying On You
However, this subject may look to only play out between governments and intelligence services; the truth is that it can very quickly trickle down to private users and whatever ‘suspicious’ work they could be up to while online. Aside from that, users also have to deal with the threats posed by cybercriminals that involve antivirus software to steal and blackmail unsuspecting users. One such example is when they use a type of malware known as scareware.
What’s Scareware?
Here’s the kicker, scareware is employed whenever some rogue software gets to your device and manages to fool you into thinking your device has been infected with a virus. To get rid of it, you read that you’ll have to download, or even pay for software that could help sort out the problem, only to find out much later that the ‘problem solving’ software you had installed was only used to gain access to your personal information.
How To Stay Safe?
To prevent your antivirus from spying on you and any other malicious forms of attack requires that; you also take some action to ensure you stay safe. A number of the tips that you could implement include:
- Opt for a credible antivirus firm that has been in the business long enough to build a strong reputation.
- Whereas recognized software brands often start by offering free versions of their software in a bid to increase market exposure; it’d be best to keep a keen eye on the brands that you choose to test out software from.
- Be up to date with any updates on cyber-security released by the government. Whatever is put out by the government is highly likely to be credible information; so staying all ears and heeding to their instructions could help you avoid a lot of frustrations compared to not doing so.
- It’s good to get software from a company; that has a well-built reputation; and a credible customer service team that’s ready to help you out in case you encounter any issues.
- Drive away from any ads or prompts; where unheard of companies try to solicit you to download any unheard of software.
- Additionally, avoid software from brands that promise to deliver big on features; yet they’re being offered for free.
Best Antivirus Features
We also have many features that you could decide to look for as you take the time to identify; what are the best antivirus brands on the market. They are::
- Multiple devices support.
- Technical support that’s available 24/7.
- A money back policy that lasts up to 30 days.
- Advanced firewall and ad blocking systems.
- An easy-to-use interface.
- Top level anti-malware & anti-phishing protection.
- Support for all platforms & operating systems.
- Availability of both fast and comprehensive system scan.
Conclusion -How to Prevent Your Antivirus From Spying On You
With Kaspersky being accused of what the US government thinks as government spying; you can’t be sure about what your current antivirus client is up to behind the scenes; so it’d only be best to keep a lookout and stay informed. An antivirus; a credible VPN service like ExpressVPN; and a proven security-conscious browser are the three attributes you need to assure your activities online remain private, secure and confidential.(Also see, Most Secure VPN Services in 2018)