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The FDA introduced a new cybersecurity policy for medical devices on 29th March 2023, as part of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Medical devices defined as cyber devices must now comply with specific cybersecurity requirements, including post-market monitoring, addressing vulnerabilities, and providing updates and patches. The Refuse to Accept policy empowers the FDA to reject submissions that fail to meet these standards. The policy comes in response to the rising number of cyberattacks targeting medical devices and aims to ensure patient safety, device performance, and cybersecurity from the initial stages of development. It does not apply retroactively for currently deployed insecure devices and legacy technologies.

Medical devices are increasingly connected to the internet, hospital networks, and other devices to improve healthcare and enable healthcare providers to treat patients more effectively. However, these features also increase potential cybersecurity risks. Medical devices, like other computer systems, can be vulnerable to security breaches, which could impact the safety and effectiveness of the device. The healthcare environment is complex, and manufacturers, hospitals, and facilities must work together to manage cybersecurity risks.

Manufacturers must design and release updates, patches, provide a software bill of materials, and submit a plan for identifying and addressing post-market cybersecurity vulnerabilities. These rules affect devices with software and internet connections, such as insulin pumps, blood sugar monitors, and certain pacemakers. The new focus on device manufacturers aligns with the governments focus on accountability for software makers and industry for product defects.

Tiffany Gallagher, PwC Health Industries Risk & Regulatory Leader, said to The Record, As innovations in healthcare technology continue to grow, these regulations will help ensure that cybersecurity is baked into devices from the very beginning and continues to be a top-of-mind priority beyond the initial implementation.

The medical industry has been increasingly targeted by cyberattacks, with a significant spike in 2022. The FBI warned in September 2022 of vulnerabilities in medical devices, with over 50% of connected devices having critical vulnerabilities. The new regulations aim to address these vulnerabilities and protect patients safety and privacy.

Chris Warner, Operational Technology Cybersecurity Expert at GuidePoint Security, said, We are seeing a Shift Left strategy to push the responsibilities from the operators of the device to the manufacturers of IoMT [Internet of Medical Things] equipment and devices. The FDAs new policy is a crucial step towards a more secure healthcare ecosystem, benefiting patients, healthcare providers, and manufacturers alike.

While the new policy marks a significant milestone in medical device cybersecurity, it is essential to continue monitoring and addressing cybersecurity risks in the healthcare industry. Collaboration between manufacturers, healthcare providers, and regulators will be crucial to ensure the safety and effectiveness of medical devices in an increasingly connected world.

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Conrad Prince is a Distinguished Fellow and senior cyber adviser at RUSI. He is the former director general for operations and deputy head of the U.K. governments signals intelligence and cyber security agency, GCHQ.

The last decade has seen a notable increase in openness and engagement from the United Kingdoms intelligence and security agencies especially in contrast to the days, not all that long ago, when the government didnt even officially admit to their existence. But today, we have speeches and media appearances from agency heads, extensive websites and even a presence on social media.

Now, that process has taken a significant step further with a publication by one of the newest additions to this secret world the National Cyber Force (NCF). The NCF has released a document setting out the operating principles behind the U.K.s use of what is sometimes called offensive cyber. That is, operations in cyberspace to disrupt an adversarys ability to use the Internet and digital technology to further their ends.

The guide is the first of its kind, giving us unprecedented insight into the U.K.s thinking on cyber operations.

The NCF was created in 2020 from elements of the Government Communications Headquarters its cyber intelligence and security agency the Ministry of Defence and the Secret Intelligence Service. And although its creation represents a significant increase in focus on this area, the U.K. isnt new to the world of offensive cyber operations by the governments own account, its been carrying them out for over 20 years. But up until now, very little has been said in public about the U.K.s approach to this capability.

Public understanding of cyber operations is sometimes hampered by some of the overblown language used to describe it. Terms like cyber 9/11 or cyber-Pearl Harbor reinforce the seriously misleading notion that a cyberattack is something analogous to a nuclear one, and is mainly about widespread and catastrophic destruction to swathes of critical infrastructure.

But nuclear is about the worst possible analogy for cyber. Cyber operations are much closer to covert action, to clandestine operations below the threshold of a shooting war, designed to achieve a particular effect in a targeted way.

The NCFs new guide acknowledges that cyber operations are unlikely to be strategically decisive on their own. They can, however, achieve a valuable targeted effect such as preventing a terrorist group communicating at a critical moment, or disrupting an adversarys access to situational awareness information which can be particularly effective when combined with other actions in the physical world.

As our adversaries whether terrorists, criminals or hostile states increasingly depend on digital technology to achieve their ends, having an ability to disrupt this dependency is important. And, according to the guide, the NCF is carrying out such operations on a daily basis.

Among the details revealed, perhaps most striking are those into the thought process behind the U.K.s cyber operations, in particular, what is termed the doctrine of cognitive effect. This approach focuses on how cyber operations that limit or affect the information available to an adversary, and undermine their confidence in their technology and the information it provides, can weaken their ability to plan and conduct activities with confidence. It shows an intent to use cyber operations for a more subtle and pervasive effect, beyond simple tactical short-term disruption of technology.

This reveals some innovative thinking but evidencing the impact of these operations remains difficult. The NCF is clear we shouldnt expect to see details of specific operations, and there are clearly difficult security issues involved in being more open maintaining ambiguity about operations is also a core part of the U.K. approach. But in the spirit of transparency, it would be good if the NCF could find some ways to give the public a sense of its effectiveness.

Theres also a question as to whether publishing this statement will contribute to deterrence. Much has been written on cyber deterrence, and much of it suffers from false analogies to the nuclear environment. But in practice, theres little evidence that knowledge of a countrys cyber capabilities plays a material part in deterring action, whether in the virtual or physical world.

A critical part of the guide is about making the case that it is possible to carry out cyber operations in a responsible and ethical way.

The U.K. government has committed itself to the principle of a free, open, peaceful and secure Internet, and has repeatedly emphasized the need for states to act responsibly in cyberspace. But how does that sit with the government at the same time investing apparently significant resources in an organization dedicated to launching cyberattacks?

The starting point is that our adversaries are using the Internet and digital technology to do us harm, and it seems perverse to deny ourselves the possibility of making that harder for them. So, the key questions are how to do so in a legal, ethical and properly managed way. And the guide sets out a strong case for the U.K. position.

The NCF has set out three principles for its operations that they be accountable, precise and calibrated. It states that the U.K. operates under a robust legal framework of domestic and international law with independent oversight, including from judges and parliament, via its Intelligence and Security Committee. And the guide describes how the NCFs operations are carefully designed to be targeted with precision, using capabilities that are controllable, predictable and subject to extensive clearance procedures.

Some of this must inevitably be taken on trust, of course, and not everyone may be satisfied. But as an approach, its in stark contrast to the behavior exhibited by countries like Russia and Iran, which generally lack legitimacy and are disproportionate and indiscriminate, frequently impacting those who werent the intended target.

As such, this guide is a valuable step toward starting to put some much-needed flesh on the bones of what goes into making responsible cyber operations.

Not so long ago, it would have been unthinkable for the U.K. to have published a document of this sort. That they have done so is to be greatly welcomed as is the NCF explicitly recognizing it needs a license to operate from the public, and that achieving this requires more openness and engagement.

The NCFs guide is a significant step in providing more transparency about U.K. cyber operations. It does, however, need to be the start of a process, not the conclusion of one. There is much to be gained from shining more light on this complex and often misunderstood field.

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Government shines a light on UK cyber operations - POLITICO Europe

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Several days ago, an urgent call for help in a WeChat group in China solved a mystery that has puzzled many Chinese netizens for nearly two years. After the WeChat exchange, we now know what happened to an anonymous blogger who is regarded as the Chinese "Cyber Prometheus."

He is the godfather of many Chinese netizens who learned from him how to "jump over the Great Firewall."

We also finally know the blogger's name.

The urgent WeChat call for help was sent to a neighborhood chat group in China with 37 members. A woman in the chat identified herself as Bei from Unit 701. Her husband is Ruan Xiaohuan, who blogs under the name "Program-think" ().

Ruan Xiaohuan was taken away by the Chinese police on May 10, 2021, and was sentenced on February 10, 2023. Bei is helping Ruan appeal his sentence.

On February 19, Bei was blocked at her neighborhood gate. The police then forced Bei to listen to a "talk" for more than two hours. Obviously, the police didn't want Bei to hire lawyers for her husband. The police "talk" was meant to intimidate Ruan Xiaohuan's wife.

After the police stopped her and berated her, Bei was afraid that she could also be arrested. She asked her neighbors in the chat group to call her parents or her lawyers should something happen to her.

A typical case of Communist brutality, something that happens in the People's Republic of China (PRC) every day.

But Bei added something that makes her case stand out. She told her fellow chat members that her husband was the Chief Engineer of the information security system for the 2008 Beijing Olympics and had contributed a lot to this country. "He is patriotic," she said.

She also posted her lawyers' telephone numbers for her neighbors to call.A picture of Ruan Xiaohuan, "Program-think" taken during an interview. ( via Jennifer Zeng)

When the screenshot of Bei's chats was circulated on the internet, many Chinese people both inside and outside of China were extremely shocked. Bei had, inadvertently perhaps, revealed two big puzzle pieces at the same time: What happened to "Program-think"? And what was his real name?

"Program-think" was arrested and sentenced. His name is Ruan Xiaohuan.

There's more. People were equally shocked that "Program-think" was also the Chief Engineer of the information security system for the 2008 Beijing Olympics!

In 2009, "Program-think" started a blog that eventually became very influential. "Program-think" posted many articles about online safety, and about how to bypass the Chinese Communist Party's (CCP) "Great Firewall" of online censorship. He also published a lot of other articles on "improving thinking ability," "popularizing political knowledge," and "revealing the true face of the Party-state."

He also provided the public with many e-books on politics, psychology, history, economics, management, sociology, literature, philosophy, science popularization, and military affairs.

Via his blog and other platforms, "Program-think" taught Chinese people how to safely jump over the CCP's Great Firewall without being caught. His deep thoughts and marvelous online techniques inspired many people, and many regarded him as a mentor, an enlightener.

For many, he was the ideological mentor of most of the netizens who know how to climb over the Great Firewall today. Some even say he was as dear as a father to them, and a true hero.

"Program-think" was gaining a tremendous following, and great respect, among the Chinese people. But he suddenly stopped updating his blog on May 9, 2021.

"Program-think" had previously said that if he was silent for more than two weeks, then he had either died or been caught by the People's Republic of China (PRC) authorities.

So, people knew something bad must have happened to him after he fell silent. But his online security awareness was so strong, his skills were so good, and he kept teaching others how to go over the Great Firewall without getting caught or discovered. So, it was hard for people to imagine how he could have gotten into trouble.

And yet, the fact was that "Program-think" had disappeared. Nobody knew where he was, what happened to him, or his true identity. But many Chinese netizens still talked about him from time to time. Many people missed him too.

Then, on March 21, 2023, a month or so after her "talk" from the Chinese police, the call for help from his wife Bei suddenly appeared on WeChat.

When people learned that "Program-think" was also the chief engineer of the information security system for the 2008 Beijing Olympics, they thought: "No wonder he knew so much about online safety. No wonder he knew how to jump over the Great Firewall."

The CCP had been thwarted by someone on the inside. "Program-think" was a double agent, an online freedom fighter for the Chinese people.

After some digging, one netizen in China later revealed how "Program-think" got caught.

More than ten years ago, Ruan Xiaohuan had registered an account at a Chinese online database and social networking service called Douban. He used the same name for that as his later blog handle, "Program-think."

Ruan later deleted that Douban account. However, Douban didn't delete his account information. They kept it, and this became the final clue for the CCP to track Ruan down.

Although he had been very cautious and had very advanced internet security techniques, Ruan might have forgotten about the old Douban account that he hadn't used much.

However, there are other people who suggest that Ruan was caught because western companies cooperated with the CCP, using big data technology to help the CCP find their quarry. Right now we don't know for sure.

It is now confirmed that Ruan Xiaohuan "Program-think" is currently detained in the Yangpu District Detention Center in Shanghai. He was sentenced to seven years in prison by the Second Intermediate People's Court of Shanghai on Feb 10, 2023.

Ruan's court-appointed "lawyer" did not disclose any details of the case to his family until the trial.

After the first trial, Ruan filed an appeal. His wife, Bei, hired two lawyers in Beijing, Mo Shaoping and Shang Baojun, to defend him.

However, his wife was then forcibly interrogated by the police outside her apartment building that day in February of 2023. She couldn't reach the lawyers she had hired to represent her husband. Also, Ruan's case has been transferred to the Shanghai High People's Court. The court again "appointed" two "official lawyers" for Ruan. This was done so that Ruan could not hire his own counsel.

According to his "criminal judgment," Ruan Xiaohuan, aka "Program-think," was basically charged with "Subversion of State Power."

His judgment states:

From June 2009 to May 2021, the defendant Ruan Xiaohuan, due to his long-standing dissatisfaction with China's political system and social governance model, wrote over a hundred fabricated and defamatory inciting articles using his personal computer at his place of residence. The content involved attacking and smearing China's existing political system, inciting subversion of state power, and attempting to overthrow the socialist system, and was published through overseas online platforms, resulting in a large number of netizens viewing, commenting, forwarding, imitating, and other adverse consequences.

This statement, for me, is no doubt an official confirmation of Ruan's online influence.

The judgment also states that the police seized and confiscated quite a number of computers, cellphones, hard drives, USB drives, and so forth from Ruan. One Chinese netizen commented that he hopes the police keep these items so that they can become exhibits in future Chinese museums after the fall of the CCP.

In the past few days, many Chinese people have been circulating the latest news about Ruan Xiaohuan, "Program-think."

Ruan was well-known among internet-savvy Chinese people and considered a legendary figure. So, it was surprising and saddening to learn that he taught people how to bypass censorship and protect online anonymity, only to be caught due to an oversight in his own account information, or big tech's cooperation with the CCP.

For me, however, Ruan's arrest and legacy should be highlighted for the following three reasons:

First, he was the Chief Engineer of the information security system for the 2008 Beijing Olympics. His situation deserves attention from the international community, from anyone who attended or watched that great event.

Second, even someone like Ruan, who is very knowledgeable about network security technology, can be arrested. This shows how much effort the CCP has put into internet control.

It was said it took the CCP ten years of painstaking effort to catch "Program-think."

Third, the fact that Ruan was once entrusted by the CCP with the important task of ensuring information security for the 2008 Beijing Olympics indicates that he still had the trust of the Party in 2008. If someone like him can become an "enemy" of the CCP just one year later, then Xi Jinping and other high-ranking Communist officials should indeed have nightmares every day.

How many such "enemies" are hidden within the CCP? How long can rule maintained by high pressure last?

According to those who know him, Ruan Xiaohuan actually had the opportunity to go abroad. He could have done so, escaping from the inhuman system he fought against.

However, he chose to stay in China to help more Chinese people learn how to "climb over the Great Firewall" and master safe internet technology while spreading ideas of freedom and democracy.

During an early interview with him by a Chinese media outlet, "Program-think" said he was someone who was passionate about new technology, and only new technology could make him passionate.

He also said later, as the anonymous "Program-think," that:

I believe it is exactly this kind of thinking and sense of responsibility that made him stay in China at the risk of his life to do enlightenment work on cybersecurity. It is a reminder that freedom from China will come from the Chinese people standing up to the Chinese Communist Party.

But the help of those outside of China is also indispensable. Let's hope that more people will know Ruan Xiaohuan's story and call for his release so that he can regain his freedom as soon as possible.

Author: Jennifer Zeng

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Legend of the Chinese 'Cyber Prometheus' of China's Great Firewall - JAPAN Forward

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With wearable fitness trackers, car key fobs and smart home devices, the Internet of Things (IoT) has become ubiquitous in our lives. Unfortunately, much of this flow of information is vulnerable to malicious activity and attacks as securing the IoT has not kept pace with new technological advances.

To address this, Shantanu Chakrabartty, the Clifford W. Murphy Professor in the Preston M. Green Department of Electrical & Systems Engineering at the McKelvey School of Engineering at Washington University in St. Louis, and Mustafizur Rahman, a doctoral student in his lab, developed a prototype method to better secure these communications using a synchronized pseudo-random-number generator. The method, which could be used to verify and authenticate secure transactions in IoT, was published in Frontiers in Computer Science, Computer Security March 20.

Read more on the McKelvey School of Engineering website.

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Making Internet of Things more secure - The Source - Washington ... - Washington University in St. Louis

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In todays digitally connected world, our devices are more than just communication tools. They provide access to countless services and store sensitive data and personal information, so its essential to ensure that they remain secure and protected from digital threats. Thats why its important to find the best antivirus software for your needs.

While its true that some antivirus apps burden your device with performance issues such as excessive RAM usage or bandwidth consumption, fear not. Weve scoured the market and picked out the best antivirus apps, which not only offer top-notch protection but also excel in usability and require minimal system resources. Heres the best antivirus software out there right now.

McAfee

Helpful identity protection features

VPN is included in the plan

Covers an unlimited number of devices

McAfee+ Premium is a well-known antivirus and security software that offers a comprehensive suite of features to keep your digital life protected. For example, one of its advantages is its robust identity protection features. These help you safeguard your sensitive information from cybercriminals, reducing the risk of identity theft and other malicious online activities. Additionally, the software includes a VPN, which is essential for maintaining privacy while browsing the internet and accessing geo-restricted content. McAfee+ Premium also supports unlimited devices, allowing you to secure all your gadgets under a single subscription.

McAfees pricing and plan structure can be somewhat confusing. McAfee+ Premium is a mid-tier plan. McAfee Total Protection Essential is a rung down, and while it does nearly everything the Premium plan does, it only covers five devices. Its also only $5 cheaper in the first year, so if you have a large household or lots of devices, youll likely find the Premium plan makes more sense.

Some attractive features offered by McAfee, such as transaction monitoring, are only available in the more expensive McAfee+ Advanced plan, but at $30 more in the first year, its probably not worth the upgrade for most folks. If youre considering McAfee antivirus software, just be sure to thoroughly research and compare the plans to ensure you choose the most suitable option for your needs.

Bitdefender

Great at malware prevention

Performs daily scans of your devices

Provides lots of bonus features

Can get expensive

VPN costs extra

Bitdefender Total Security antivirus software offers a comprehensive solution to protect you from a wide range of cyber threats. One of its most significant selling points is its prowess in preventing malware attacks. By taking advantage of advanced machine learning and artificial intelligence, Bitdefender can effectively detect and block malicious software, keeping your devices safe from any potential harm. It also performs daily scans to ensure that your system remains clean and free of any threats. This proactive approach not only safeguards your data but also promotes an overall secure digital environment.

In addition to its robust malware protection, Bitdefender Total Security comes packed with a variety of bonus features, including parental controls, password management, file encryption, and a secure browser for online transactions. These extra tools cater to diverse security needs, providing a well-rounded solution that goes beyond just antivirus protection.

Bitdefender Total Security isnt without its drawbacks, though. One of the primary concerns for potential users is the relatively high price point, which may deter those on a tight budget. For five devices, the software costs $39.98 for the first year, but the price jumps to $94.99 for the second year. And although the software includes a VPN feature to enhance online privacy, the service comes at an extra cost. This can be frustrating for users who expect a fully integrated VPN solution within the base subscription. Despite these downsides, Bitdefender Total Security is well worth considering for anyone who wants great antivirus software.

Eset

ESET Cyber Security is a user-friendly antivirus and security software that offers an intuitive interface and straightforward setup process. This ease of use is one of its main advantages, as it allows even less tech-savvy users to navigate the software and configure the settings without hassle. In addition to its simplicity, ESET Cyber Security delivers solid core antivirus capabilities that effectively detect and eliminate threats while having a low impact on system performance. This makes it particularly suitable for users with older or less powerful devices, as the softwares light performance requirements ensure that your device remains responsive even during scans.

Keep in mind that ESET Cyber Security is a bit light on extra features when compared to the competition. While the software provides essential antivirus protection, it may not include some of the additional tools, such as identity theft protection or a VPN, that other security suites offer. This might leave you feeling that ESET Cyber Security lacks the comprehensive security coverage you desire, particularly when compared to competitors that provide a more feature-rich experience.

Another aspect to consider with ESET Cyber Security is that its default coverage is for a single device. ESET does let you add coverage for up to five devices at a cost of $10 per device per year, and while this flexibility is helpful, it can quickly increase your bill if you need to protect multiple devices.

Malwarebytes Premium is known for its quick scans and light impact on system performance, which make it an excellent choice if youve got an older or less powerful device, as it ensures that the system will remain responsive even during scans.

The base version of Malwarebytes Premium costs $3.75 per month for one device, $6.67 per month for five devices, and $10.83 per month for 10 devices. This pricing structure might be suitable if you only need to protect a couple of devices, but it quickly adds up over the course of a year. If you have more than five devices or if you require more comprehensive security coverage, you may find that alternative solutions better meet your needs.

One of the companys big advantages is the availability of a free version, simply called Malwarebytes. Its somewhat limited in terms of features, but it does give you the opportunity to test-drive the Premium plans software before committing to a paid plan. However, youll find that even Malwarebytes Premium lacks some features that are commonly found in other security suites, such as a firewall, which may leave you feeling that it doesnt offer sufficiently comprehensive security coverage.

Parental controls across platforms

Provides good device support

Features an intuitive interface

F-Secure Internet Security's standout feature is its excellent parental controls, which work seamlessly across platforms. They let parents easily monitor and restrict their childrens online activities on PCs, Macs, and smartphones, helping to ensure a safe and age-appropriate browsing experience.

In addition to its robust parental controls, F-Secure Internet Security boasts good device support. The software is compatible with a wide range of devices and operating systems, meaning youll get comprehensive protection regardless of your preferred platform. Its interface is intuitive and easy to navigate, letting you quickly access important features and settings without getting lost in complex menus or jargon.

F-Secure Internet Security is relatively expensive, though, costing $49.99 for the first year for just one device, so its maybe not the best option if youre on a tight budget or looking to protect multiple devices. If your priorities are strong parental controls, broad device support, and an easy-to-use interface, though, itll be a great fit.

Trend Micro

Trend Micro Maximum Security is a top-tier antivirus software that provides robust security measures for your device. Boasting excellent malware protection, ransomware defense, and anti-phishing capabilities, it ensures the highest level of security against the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats.

Apart from its core features, Trend Micro Maximum Security also offers a variety of valuable extras that elevate the user experience and further bolster your digital safety. These include a great browser extension, system optimization tools, parental controls, and a password manager. The software will work for just about any user, too, as it supports Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and ChromeOS.

Trend Micro Maximum Security is a little expensive, which could be a deal breaker if youre on a budget. There are cheaper versions of the software, with fewer features, called Trend Micro Antivirus+ Security (for Windows) and Trend Micro Antivirus for Mac (for Mac), but if youre willing to pay a bit more and like the extra features, its well worth that cash.

Avast

Free

Lightweight

Available for Mac, PC, iOS, and Android

Avast One Essential delivers the basic security features necessary to safeguard your devices from cyber threats, and its completely free. Its also lightweight, which means it wont put a strain on your devices performance and you can enjoy a smooth and uninterrupted user experience. The software is compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, so you can benefit from its protection capabilities no matter what sort of device you have.

Unsurprisingly for free software, Avast One Essential is somewhat bare-bones when it comes to features. For instance, the included VPN service is limited to 5GB of traffic per week, and youre only permitted one device per account, a big drawback if youre looking to secure multiple devices simultaneously. Theres always the option of upgrading to one of Avasts paid plans, however.

Despite its limitations, Avast One Essential remains an attractive option for users seeking a free antivirus solution. While it may not provide all the bells and whistles of premium antivirus options, it delivers dependable protection, keeping your device safe from the most common cyber threats.

Sophos

Great price for 10 devices

Extensive protection tools

Provides protection against ransomware

Sophos Home offers extensive protection tools, making it an attractive option for users seeking comprehensive security coverage. The software boasts a range of advanced features, including ransomware protection, ensuring that your critical data will remain safe from malicious encryption attempts. Its also excellent value, providing coverage of up to 10 devices for only $44.99 for the first year and offering discounts for multiyear contracts.

Sophos Homes main drawback is that its not as user-friendly as some of its competitors. If youre not particularly tech-savvy, you may find the interface and configuration process somewhat challenging. Despite that, the softwares affordability and comprehensive features make it an appealing choice, particularly if you need robust protection for multiple devices at a reasonable price. And if youre willing to invest a bit of time in learning the software and configuring the settings, youll benefit from Sophos extensive protection tools and advanced features.

Webroot Secure Anywhere AntiVirus is known for its lightweight design and exceptional malware protection capabilities. With its lightning-fast scans, the software efficiently detects and neutralizes potential threats without consuming substantial system resources or affecting your devices performance.

While Webroot Secure Anywhere AntiVirus Basic plan only covers a single device, its performance and features make it an effective security solution. The softwares real-time protection capabilities, coupled with its cloud-based infrastructure, ensure that your device stays safeguarded from the latest cyber threats. Moreover, the user-friendly interface and straightforward controls make it accessible to both tech-savvy individuals and those who are new to the antivirus software world.

While the Basic plan is good value, the cost of the software can escalate quickly if you opt for higher-end plans with additional features or multidevice support. If you need comprehensive security coverage for several devices, its not the most budget-friendly option. But if youre in search of a lightweight, efficient, and reliable antivirus solution for a single device, Webroot is a fantastic choice.

Courtesy ofNorton

First year for one device is inexpensive

Powerful software with lots of extra features

Provides protection against ransomware

Norton AntiVirus Plus is a powerful antivirus and security software that offers an extensive range of features to protect you from online threats. One of its main strengths is its robust protection against ransomware, ensuring that your critical data remains safe from malicious encryption attempts. The software also provides a suite of additional features, making it an attractive option if youre seeking comprehensive security coverage for your devices.

Its essential to consider the cost of Nortons AntiVirus Plus software before signing up, though. Its a worthwhile investment if youre only seeking to protect a single computer, but the cost can add up quickly when multiple devices get involved. The software is priced at $59.99 per year (after a first year at $9.99) for one device but jumps to $84.99 per year (after a first year at $39.99) for five devices. That said, if you prioritize powerful antivirus protection and a comprehensive range of features, Norton AntiVirus Plus still represents good value, especially if you only need to cover a single device.

Selecting the best antivirus software for you ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. For many folks, Bitdefender Total Security will be a great choice thanks to its outstanding malware protection and abundance of extra features that cater to a wide range of security requirements. If you need extensive coverage for multiple devices, McAfee+ Premium stands out as an ideal pick, while Malwarebytes Premium and Webroot Secure Anywhere AntiVirus excel in delivering fast scans without compromising on protection or device performance. Whatever your specific needs, the options listed here will all help safeguard your digital life and ensure your online experiences remain safe and secure.

Antivirus software serves as a critical line of defense against various cyber threats, protecting devices by identifying, neutralizing, and eliminating malicious software. It operates using a combination of techniques to detect and counteract viruses, malware, ransomware, and other threats. One common method antivirus programs employ is signature-based detection, which involves comparing files on the device against a database of known malware signatures. This enables the software to identify and remove threats based on their unique patterns.

Modern antivirus solutions often incorporate real-time protection, continuously monitoring the device for potential threats and blocking them before they can cause damage. Moreover, many antivirus programs offer additional features such as firewall integration, email protection, and system optimization tools to provide comprehensive security coverage and enhance overall device performance.

Its essential to choose the right antivirus software to safeguard your digital life and maintain the security of your devices. With the ever-increasing sophistication of cyber threats, youll want to invest in an antivirus solution that effectively combats malware, ransomware, and other online dangers. However, finding the best antivirus software can be a daunting task, given the multitude of available options. Here are a few factors to keep in mind when you buy.

The primary function of antivirus software is to detect and remove malicious software. Therefore, its critical to choose a solution with excellent malware detection capabilities. Good antivirus software can detect and remove malware, but it can also monitor and protect against ransomware and other types of threats.

Antivirus software should provide comprehensive protection without significantly affecting your devices performance. Look for a lightweight solution that doesnt consume excessive system resources, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted operation. Independent test results can help you identify the antivirus programs with the least impact on system performance, enabling you to make a well-informed choice.

Antivirus software often comes bundled with additional features that cater to different security needs. Some common extras include firewalls, parental controls, email protection, and VPN services. Additionally, you should consider the softwares user interface and ease of use. A user-friendly program with intuitive controls will make it easier to manage your devices security.

Ensure that the antivirus software you select is compatible with your devices operating system and hardware specifications. Most modern antivirus solutions support multiple platforms, such as Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. However, some programs may not be compatible with older operating systems or have specific hardware requirements. Verify that the software you choose can be seamlessly installed and run on your device without any compatibility issues.

Antivirus software comes in various price ranges, from free options to premium packages with advanced features. Determine your budget and select a product that provides the best value for your investment. Keep in mind that some free antivirus solutions may offer limited features or support, while paid options typically include more comprehensive protection and customer assistance. When evaluating customer support, look for antivirus providers that offer multiple support channels, such as email, live chat, and phone support, ensuring you can receive prompt assistance when needed.

The cost of antivirus software varies greatly depending on the brand, features, and level of protection offered. There are free antivirus solutions available, which provide basic protection against common threats, making them suitable for users with only basic security needs or budget constraints. However, these free options often come with limitations in terms of features, support, or multidevice coverage.

Paid antivirus software typically ranges from around $20 to over $100 per year, with the price being influenced by factors such as the number of devices covered, additional features like VPNs and parental controls, and the quality of customer support. Premium packages may cost more, but they offer comprehensive protection, advanced features, and better support, making them a worthwhile investment for users with high security requirements. Its also important to note that many advertised pricesincluding many of those listed in this articleare for the first year of a subscription only and will increase in the second year.

Antivirus software is worth investing in, considering the ever-present and evolving cyber threats that can jeopardize the security of your devices and personal information. Without adequate protection, your devices become vulnerable to malware, ransomware, phishing, and other online dangers, which can result in financial loss, identity theft, or irretrievable data loss.

FAQ

What Are the Different Types of Digital Security Threats?

The digital landscape is fraught with various threats that can compromise the security of devices, networks, and personal information. One of the most common is malware, which encompasses viruses, worms, and Trojans designed to infiltrate, damage, or hijack devices without the users consent. Ransomware is a specific form of malware that encrypts files or locks systems, demanding payment in exchange for the decryption key or regained access. Phishing attacks involve fraudulent emails, messages, or websites that deceive users into revealing sensitive information or credentials, which can lead to identity theft or unauthorized access to accounts. Spyware is a type of software that secretly monitors user activity, capturing personal data and potentially transmitting it to third parties.

Whats the Difference Between Paid and Free Antivirus Software?

The primary difference between paid and free antivirus software lies in the range of features and the level of protection offered. Free antivirus solutions typically provide basic security measures, such as essential malware detection and removal capabilities, which can be sufficient for users with minimal security needs. However, free versions often come with limitations in terms of features, multidevice coverage, and customer support.

Will Antivirus Software Protect Your Computer From Hackers?

Antivirus software plays a crucial role in safeguarding your computer against hackers by providing protection against cyber threats, such as malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks. However, its essential to understand that antivirus software is just one component of a comprehensive security strategy. To achieve robust protection against hackers, its vital to complement your antivirus software with additional security measures, such as keeping your operating system and applications updated, using strong and unique passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and practicing safe browsing habits.

How Do You Install Antivirus Software on a Laptop?

Installing antivirus software on a laptop is a straightforward process. Once youve chosen the antivirus software, visit the official website of the provider to download the installer file. Only download software from a reputable source to avoid potential security risks. After downloading the installer, locate the file on your laptop, usually in the Downloads folder, and double-click it to initiate the installation process. Youll be guided through a series of prompts to accept the license agreement, choose the installation directory, and select any additional features or custom settings, if applicable. Follow the on-screen instructions and, upon completion, restart your laptop if prompted. The antivirus software should now be successfully installed, and you can proceed to update the virus definitions and run a full system scan to ensure that your laptop is free from any potential threats.

Does Antivirus Software Slow Down a Computer?

Antivirus software can potentially slow down a computer, particularly if it consumes significant system resources during scans or real-time protection activities. The degree to which an antivirus program impacts system performance varies depending on factors such as the softwares design, the computers hardware specifications, and the presence of other resource-intensive applications. Some antivirus solutions are more lightweight and optimized to minimize their impact on system performance, while others may cause noticeable slowdowns during certain operations, such as full system scans.

To determine the best antivirus software programs, we considered dozens of options. First and foremost, we looked for software that offers all of the basic features you would expect, like malware protection. We also factored in any available extras, such as VPNs and parental controls. Reasonable prices, compatibility with various operating systems, and multidevice coverage rounded out our list of criteria.

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