8 Common myths about antivirus software debunked

Antivirus software – it’s your digital armor, but how much do you really know about it?

From casual internet users to tech enthusiasts, many of us harbor misconceptions about these essential security tools. You might believe free antivirus is just as effective as paid versions or that Macs don’t need protection at all. Perhaps you’ve avoided installing antivirus software for fear that it will grind your computer to a halt.

It’s time to separate fact from fiction. In this post, we’re tackling some widespread myths about antivirus software head-on. We’ll provide you with the hard facts and evidence-backed truths to help you make informed decisions about your digital security.

Whether you’re looking to strengthen your online defenses or simply curious about the real capabilities of antivirus software, you’re in the right place. Let’s cut through the misinformation and get to the heart of what antivirus can (and can’t) do for you.

Ready to test your antivirus knowledge and boost your cybersecurity savvy? Let’s dive in and debunk these myths one by one.

What is a Virus?

A computer virus is a type of malicious software (malware) designed to replicate itself and spread from one system to another, potentially causing harm. Viruses can corrupt files, steal sensitive information, or even render devices inoperable. They’re just one type of malware, a category that also includes ransomware, spyware, trojans, and more.

Modern antivirus software doesn’t just protect against viruses. It combats a wide range of threats by using advanced technologies like real-time scanning, machine learning, and behavior-based detection. These tools help keep your device safe from both known and emerging threats.

Myth 1: Antivirus software significantly slows down your device

Truth: While it’s true that antivirus software utilizes system resources, modern solutions are engineered to have a minimal impact on your device’s performance. Gone are the days when running a virus scan meant your computer would grind to a halt.

Quality antivirus programs now employ advanced optimization techniques to conduct regular scans without compromising your device’s efficiency. These improvements mean you can work, browse, or play while your antivirus keeps you protected in the background. 

To ensure optimal performance:

• Install a single, high-quality antivirus program like Norton or Bitdefender that meets your device’s system requirements. Multiple antivirus programs can conflict and actually decrease performance.
• Schedule scans during off-peak hours, such as overnight, to avoid interference with your work or leisure activities.
• Opt for antivirus solutions that offer a ‘gaming mode’ or ‘silent mode’ if you’re a gamer or frequently use resource-intensive applications.

Myth 2: Antivirus software only protects against a few viruses

Truth: Modern antivirus software provides comprehensive protection against many malicious programs, not just a handful of viruses. These solutions employ sophisticated detection methods to guard against known threats and identify new, emerging dangers.

Antivirus software typically uses two primary methods of detection:

1. Signature-based detection: This method identifies known threats based on a continuously updated database of malware signatures. It’s like having a vast library of “mugshots” for digital criminals.
2. Behavior-based detection: Using advanced techniques like machine learning, data science, and artificial intelligence, this method analyzes program behavior to identify new and evolving threats. It can spot malware that hasn’t been seen before based on how it acts.

This powerful combination allows antivirus software to protect against both existing and emerging malware, including viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, spyware, and more.

Myth 3: Apple products can’t get viruses

Truth: While Apple products were historically less targeted by cybercriminals, they are far from immune to malware attacks. As Apple’s market share grows, so does its attractiveness as a target for malicious actors.

In fact, one of the first viruses ever released in the wild, Elk Cloner, was written for Apple II systems back in 1982. Fast forward to today, and we’re seeing an increasing number of sophisticated malware designed specifically for macOS and iOS.

Some notable examples include:

• XcodeGhost: A malware thatinfected iOS apps through a compromised version of Apple’s Xcode development tool.
• Silver Sparrow: A mysterious malware capable of running natively on M1 Macs.
• ThiefQuest: A hybrid malware that combines ransomware and data exfiltration capabilities.

The takeaway? Whether you’re a Mac or PC user, robust antivirus protection is essential.

Myth 4: You are 100% protected if you have antivirus software

Truth: While antivirus software is a crucial component of your digital security arsenal, it’s not an impenetrable shield against all cyber threats. Think of it as a vital piece of armor, but not the entire suit.

To truly fortify your digital defenses:

• Practice safe browsing habits: Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments from unknown sources.
• Steer clear of downloading suspicious content: If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
• Use a password manager: Create strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts.
• Keep your software and operating system updated: These updates often include critical security patches.
• Enable two-factor authentication where possible: This adds an extra layer of security to your accounts.

Remember, cybersecurity is a holistic practice. Antivirus software is your trusty sidekick, but you’re the superhero in charge of your digital safety.

Myth 5: Antivirus is only necessary for less-experienced users

Truth: Even the most tech-savvy among us can fall victim to malware. Cybercriminals are constantly evolving their tactics, and no one is immune to threats like zero-day vulnerabilities or compromised legitimate websites. 

Consider these scenarios:

• A seasoned developer unknowingly downloads a compromised development tool, introducing malware into their system.
• An IT professional falls for a sophisticated phishing email that appears to be from their company’s CEO.
• A cybersecurity expert visits a legitimate website that has been temporarily hijacked to serve malware.

Antivirus software provides an essential layer of protection for all users, regardless of their technical expertise. It’s like wearing a seatbelt – even the most experienced drivers use them because accidents can happen to anyone.

Myth 6: Manual scans are necessary to run antivirus software

Truth: While manual scans were once a crucial part of maintaining your digital hygiene, modern antivirus software has made them largely obsolete for day-to-day use.

Today’s antivirus solutions perform automatic background scans, diligently checking files during downloads and when launching applications. This real-time protection means your system is continuously monitored for threats without you having to lift a finger.

Manual scans are now typically only required in specific situations:

• If you suspect your system might be infected
• After recovering from a malware infection
• When you connect an external drive that hasn’t been scanned recently

Think of it like your immune system – it’s always working in the background, and you only need to take extra measures when you suspect something’s wrong.

Myth 7: Antivirus companies create malware to sell their products

Truth: This conspiracy theory, while persistent, has no credible evidence to support it. Reputable antivirus companies are dedicated to protecting users from genuine threats created by cybercriminals.

Creating malware to drive sales would be unethical, illegal, and potentially devastating for a company’s reputation if discovered. The cybersecurity industry operates on trust, and any breach of that trust would likely result in irreparable damage to a company’s business.

Moreover, antivirus companies like McAfee need not create threats. Cybercriminals are unfortunately all too real and prolific, providing more than enough work for security researchers and antivirus developers.

Myth 8: If you have a firewall, you don’t need antivirus software

Truth: Firewalls and antivirus software serve different, complementary purposes.

A firewall monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic, acting as a gatekeeper to block unauthorized access. Antivirus software, on the other hand, detects, quarantines, and removes malware that may have already entered your system through downloads, email attachments, or compromised websites. Using both a firewall and antivirus software provides layered protection, significantly enhancing your overall cybersecurity.

Conclusion

Antivirus software is a cornerstone of digital security, but it’s only part of the bigger picture. In this post, we’ve debunked eight common myths about antivirus solutions, showing that modern antivirus programs are efficient, versatile, and essential for protecting against a wide range of threats.

Here are the key takeaways:

• Antivirus software has minimal impact on device performance, thanks to modern optimization techniques.
• It protects against a wide spectrum of malware, not just viruses.
• No device, including Macs, is completely immune to cyber threats.
• While antivirus software like Norton is vital, it’s not a standalone solution. Safe browsing habits, strong passwords, and software updates are just as important.
• Everyone, from casual users to experts, benefits from having antivirus protection.
• Choosing a reputable solution is crucial to ensure you’re using the best antivirus software for your needs. You can stay ahead of cybercriminals by selecting a trusted provider, enabling real-time protection, and keeping your software updated.

Tips for choosing and using antivirus effectively

1. Select a reputable solution: Choose an antivirus from a well-known, trusted company like Norton and TotalAV which has a track record of reliability and regular updates. Check out our article listing the best antivirus providers for some quality options. 
2. Ensure compatibility: Verify the software is compatible with your operating system and meets your device specifications.
3. Keep it updated: Regularly update your antivirus software to protect against the latest threats. Enable automatic updates if available.
4. Enable real-time scanning: This provides continuous protection as you use your device.
5. Schedule regular full system scans: Set these to run during off-peak hours to minimize disruption.
6. Be wary of scare tactics: Be cautious of pop-ups or emails claiming your computer is infected – these may be scams themselves.
7. Layer your defenses: Use antivirus in conjunction with other security measures like firewalls, ad-blockers, and regular software updates.
8. Educate yourself: Stay informed about the latest cybersecurity threats and best practices. Knowledge is power in the fight against cybercrime.

Pro tip: Norton runs regular first-year discounts for new users, offering huge savings for those looking to bolster their device security with a built-in VPN, near-perfect malware detection, and minimal impact on performance.

Got more questions? Check out our Antivirus FAQs