People utilize antivirus software to protect their devices from cyber-attacks and malware. These platforms are specifically created to prevent hackers from getting onto your system and stealing your private files & information.
To save on costs the majority of people who aren’t fully aware of how cybersecurity operates will select a free antivirus package. The only advantage of these packages is that it won’t cost you any money. But there are many dangers to using a free antivirus.
Today we’ll be going through six reasons why you shouldn’t use a free antivirus and why it’s best to only utilize a free service for a short period of time. Continue reading to find out more.
1. Free Antivirus Platforms Still Make Money Off of You – Here’s How
You may think a free antivirus isn’t making money off of you but that can’t be further from the truth. While you aren’t giving them your money these companies find a way to generate revenue at your expense.
So how is this possible? Some free antivirus platforms are unethical and here’s how they can make money without taking it directly from you.
Tracking
People are serious about the security of their digital devices and they’ll opt for many extra safety features to protect their private information. But did you know some free antivirus companies will make money off of you by selling your private information to third parties?
There are some antivirus companies that will spy on you using malware that you can’t detect on your laptop and won’t show up when you run a scan. This type of software will have access to the following:
- Your browsing history
- Online activity
- Your private information on your device
This is how insurance companies get your information so they can sell their policies to you. It’s a money-making scheme that can be avoided if you opt for reputable antivirus software.
Toolbar Redirection
Free antivirus platforms will come with useless toolbars that bombard you with ads or redirect you to unwanted websites. Some of these websites might be dodgy and you’ll be vulnerable to malicious ware when you click on any of the links advertised on them.
The reason for these toolbars is so that you can be redirected to websites and ads that will generate revenue for the antivirus brand you’re using.
Changes in Search Engines
Some people aren’t fully aware of all the programs that are installed onto their devices through the installation wizards. Most people won’t even read the terms and conditions of an antivirus before installing it.
This results in unwanted changes on existing search engines or installations of new search engines. A free antivirus sells search engines this way without telling you so the company can generate revenue.
2. You’ll be Bombarded with Ads
As mentioned before a free antivirus will typically redirect you to unwanted ads but to what extent can this happen? Sometimes while you’re trying to work or browse the web, your free antivirus will make ads pop up. This can be frustrating because you’ll constantly have to close them. This can affect your workflow or entertainment experience.
The free antivirus will show you ads for software and services that you’ll probably never opt for. Furthermore, these ads are disruptive and could potentially lead you to sites that aren’t safe.
3. Poor Quality Performance
Free antivirus software will be incredibly sluggish and will potentially slow down the processes on your physical device. This means it’s insufficient because you can’t work on a device that runs slowly. The efficiency of their scanning is also questionable.
Some free antivirus platforms will tell you that you have malicious ware on your device and it will state that it can only remove the virus if you opt for a premium service. This is not an ideal way to get customers to pay for services because it’s based on lies.
A free antivirus may load junkware onto your device that takes up space. It’s fundamentally unwanted software you didn’t opt for but it came with a program you installed such as your free antivirus.
There are types of junkware that will simply do nothing to your device but take up space. Other types of junkware may fight with apps on your device so you’ll experience more crashes and poor system performance.
4. Frustrating Customer Care
Most free antivirus platforms won’t offer customer care or tech support. This means if you’re experiencing a problem with the software or there are viruses you can’t remove there will be no one to assist you.
However, if you’re using a trial version of a reputable antivirus platform you’ll receive the customer support you’re looking for. That’s why it’s important to always opt for antivirus software that’s well known and safe to install on your device.
5. Limited Protection
A free antivirus will lack the protection you need to keep your information safe on your device. A free version won’t have regular updates so the software won’t recognize new malware or malicious attacks. This puts you at a higher risk for cyber-attacks because it won’t safeguard your device from unrecognized threats.
6. Free Antivirus Won’t Signal You for Threats
Your free antivirus won’t tell you immediately when threats are found so you can remove them. These threats may stay on your device until you check your scans.
A quality antivirus will scan and remove threats automatically & give you full reports of what has been done. With a free version, you may not get regular reports or information on where the virus came from. Without the information you can’t prevent similar scenarios from taking place in future. So rather opt for products that empower you with data.
Final Thoughts
Your digital information is under constant threat from hackers so it’s crucial that you get strong antivirus software that’s rich in features and security. Free versions are limited in security, features and performance so it’s not worth selecting a free service provider.
In today’s world where cyber-attacks are becoming more and more prevalent, purchase an antivirus subscription from a trustworthy company so you’re guaranteed the cybersecurity you need.
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