Security

Fake antivirus pop-ups claim your PC is infected to scare you into downloading malware or paying for fake software. Here’s how to block them in your browser and remove any that already got through.

Not sure what antivirus is running on your Windows PC? Here’s how to find out in under a minute using Windows Security Center, Task Manager, and Control Panel.

Free antivirus covers the basics — but paid versions add real-time ransomware protection, phishing filters, VPN, and identity monitoring. We break down exactly what you get (and lose) with the free tier.

Running two antivirus programs simultaneously usually causes conflicts, slowdowns, and false positives — not better protection. Here’s why, plus the one exception where dual protection makes sense.

Independent labs like AV-TEST and AV-Comparatives test antivirus detection rates monthly. Here’s what the real data shows about how effective modern antivirus is — and the threats it still misses.

Avast has strong malware detection — but a 2020 data-selling scandal raised real privacy concerns. We review Avast’s current practices, detection rates, pricing, and whether it’s still a trustworthy choice.

AVG AntiVirus Free offers solid baseline protection at no cost — but the paid tier adds real-time ransomware shields, phishing protection, and webcam security. Here’s our full review and verdict.

AVG is free, lightweight, and now owned by Gen Digital (same company as Avast). We review its detection rates, privacy practices, and what it’s missing compared to paid alternatives in 2026.