Scammers will never pass up an opportunity to use malware to steal your data. While we're using the internet for nearly everything from banking to social media, they're creating thousands of new viruses daily to target the activities you engage in the most.
Maybe we've gotten too comfortable online, checking for the usual red flags like suspicious links and misspellings. And we've trusted antivirus software to shield us from those sneaky attempts to install malicious software that can gather our personal information in seconds. CNET's latest findings show that, despite advancements in antivirus software and other cybersecurity tools, scammers are still finding ways to bypass our trusted antivirus software.
Over half (54%) of US adults with personal laptops have encountered potential malware on these devices in the past year. It may surprise you to learn which malware threat is leading and what laptop owners do when they encounter potential malware.
What you do when you come across a malicious link, email or app download is what matters most. Ignoring a pop-up or clicking a link out of curiosity can lead to a virus, identity theft and even fraud.
We can help you navigate these instances. Here are CNET's latest survey findings, and how far CNET's experts say antivirus software can really protect you from phishing headaches and hassles.
Key findings 78% of US adults currently own a personal laptop. More than half of the laptop brands US adults own are HP ( 32% ) and Apple ( 26% ) brands.
of US adults currently own a personal laptop. More than half of the laptop brands US adults own are HP ( ) and Apple ( ) brands. Over half ( 54% ) of laptop owners have encountered potential malware on their personal laptop over the past 12 months.
) of laptop owners have encountered potential malware on their personal laptop over the past 12 months. 88% who reported seeing potential malware in the past 12 months took action against it, while 12% did nothing.
who reported seeing potential malware in the past 12 months took action against it, while did nothing. 68% of laptop owners who took action either deleted the file or closed the suspicious website or pop-up.
... continue reading