I don’t need security software…

 

When antivirus software is mentioned, there always seems to be someone who advocates that they don’t need an antivirus because they’re “careful. No matter how smart think you are, an antivirus on your device can only benefit you. The idea that antivirus software is only necessary for irresponsible users is a myth, even the most careful of users are vulnerable.

 

Many people think that you can only get malware by downloading suspicious files, running unpatched software, visiting sketchy websites and doing other irresponsible things like opening an email virus by opening attachments without checking it first or using weak user id’s and passwords. Whilst these are certainly the most common ways to pick up malware, it is not the only way malware can spread.

 

Worst case scenario, your network is infected and all panic breaks loose. You get intimidated with scareware, which is usually a pop-up message that tells you your computer has a security problem or other false information. Your hard drive of your computer gets re-formatted, causing you to lose all your information. Files are altered or deleted and sensitive information has been stolen from you. The only way to prevent this obstacle is to take control of your computer and all the software running on it.

 

An antivirus is only a single layer of security. An antivirus program should be exercised in conjunction with taking the necessary precautions that you CAN control. If human error is not constantly acknowledged and worked on, you may become infected by malware even if you’re using an antivirus. Just because you’re being careful does not mean that you should discard of your antivirus defences completely. Antivirus software helps you stay one step ahead of the bad guys.