Everyone who has a device these days has one time made an effort to check out antivirus programs like Avast. It doesn’t matter if you’re using a PC or Mac, Android gadget, or any iOS device – the thought of leaving your devices without protection from hackers, spammers, and spying eyes is a common dilemma for millions of people worldwide.
Fortunately, brands like Avast have developed cybersecurity software continuously so that every device we use is kept protected at all times. But can you trust Avast to keep your devices safe? Let’s take a closer look…
Free Secure Browser and Browser Extensions
When it comes to browsing the web, Avast has been generous with several products that could protect your activities from tracking.
- Secure Browser – This isn’t as full-featured as Firefox or Chrome. Don’t expect it to work like the big guys in browsing. However, if your concern is protecting your online activities against tracking, then this browser shines like no other. If you’re willing to spend, add a VPN subscription service and you’ll enjoy features like anti-fingerprinting, bank mode, anti-phishing, ad-block, and more.
- Browser extensions – Avast has free browser extensions available for Chrome and Firefox. They provide basic protection against tracking and notify you if the sites you’re visiting are dangerous. These extensions do not provide comprehensive security tools like the exclusive browser, but if you’re not willing to switch browsers, then the extension is your next best choice.
Free Avast Mobile Security for Android and iOs
Avast for mobile (regardless if you have an Android or Apple/iOS device) has topped many tests since they’ve launched the mobile security apps. Because the technology used has been cutting-edge in the computer world, they simply brought it for phone apps and continued world-class cybersecurity features but in portable devices.
As such, you can be rest assured that even if the apps are free, they can still scan and prevent infected files, malware, spyware, phishing, and other malicious threats from getting into your device.
You’ll still probably get ads and other upsells to get the premium versions but running these apps is pretty safe and highly recommended.
Free Antivirus for Mac or PC
Like almost all antivirus programs offering free versions, there’s always a level of trust issues that you cannot deny. How could you? With any cybersecurity companies themselves being caught selling users’ data, how will you differentiate between a trusted brand and one that will sell you out?
Here are some truths about Avast’s free antivirus program for the Mac and PC:
- Avast is 100% safe to use and NOT dangerous.
- Also, Avast does not come with a virus when you install it.
- Avast is not a scam. It will not force-charge your credit card if you don’t want to, nor trick you into buying any other product or service.
The free version will, of course, have annoying ads here and there. And if you’re perfectly fine with this, then the added protection it could give your device and files is worth the trouble.
Premium Security for Mac or PC
The premium Avast programs are comprehensive and offer advanced security tools from Wi-Fi and network protection to fight against trojans, ransomware, phishing, and more. Avast also offers advanced firewall, password protection, webcam security, and auto-updates of your programs. Also, read Common MAC problems and possible solutions.
You do have to understand that Avast will still need to collect your information for the security features to work. For example, your IP address, URLs you visit, online identifiers, detections, locations, information about your device, applications you use, internet connections, and more. These pieces of information are necessary for the Avast program to be on top of things and prevent problems before they occur.
How Trustworthy is Avast?
Avast did have a bleep in 2020 when its data-harvesting arm Jumpshot was given the spotlight and was found that they had been collecting data of free users and selling them as packages to third-party buyers. Avast had to drop the Jumpshot division altogether and refocus its efforts on the antivirus, malware, and cybersecurity products and services they’ve been providing for the last 3 decades.
Issues on data privacy have always been a problem with ALL antivirus companies, especially if you’re using their free versions. It is sort of an unsaid compromise: “Use a free program, offer your personal data or online activities for the taking.” But this isn’t the case with premium versions of Avast products, so if you’re planning to invest in premium Avast, then you can trust the company wholeheartedly.
You won’t be alone in trusting Avast. By the end of 2021, Avast is still one of the top 7 antivirus companies in the world. Over 430 million people from around the world use browser extenders, phone security apps, or protection for their computers.
