What Makes an Antivirus Vulnerable?

Antivirus software is a critical part of ensuring your security on the web. You might be thinking that you are now immune to any security attacks since you have installed Antivirus. That may not be entirely true.

Most security systems, even physical systems, have the potential to be compromised. An antivirus works by scanning and blocking the already identified malware signatures and may or may not be able to catch new or unknown attacks.

What can cause Antivirus to be Vulnerable to Attacks?

Some habits can make the Antivirus more susceptible to an attack. Relying on free packages is not a very good idea. As much as they offer some level of protection, they still do not comprehensively protect you from attack as a premium package would. Not keeping it up to date either can leave it vulnerable too.

SEE ALSO: 9 Best Free Android Antivirus Apps

Another thing that may leave an opening is issues with the operating system. It is crucial to keep your software correctly installed and updated. Some antivirus software works better with one operating system over another. This guide can help you while choosing Antivirus for Mac.

Aligning the already installed security measures in an operating system with the Antivirus is vital to create a stronger guard against attacks.

How to Reduce Vulnerability

Taking measures like regulating the level of exposure of antivirus to threats is the first step towards reducing its vulnerability. Avoid instances where there is sharing of suspicious material with your device or within your network.

Check Your Web activity

Your activity on the internet is mostly the gateway to attacks, even on your security software. Following and opening links or downloading attachments that you are not familiar with can invite unwanted data that can potentially harm your Antivirus. Limiting the number of users on a device can also help to keep your devices safe.

The bottom line is to avoid situations that will allow attacks on your device or overburden your Antivirus.

Avoid Downloading Suspicions Unsolicited Antivirus

The unsolicited software shows popups with information regarding your computer registry and prompts you to download for you to fix the issues. Ignore them. Unless the software is from a trusted site, avoid such downloads at any cost. They will compromise your existing Antivirus causing it to be prone to attacks.

Use Quality Antivirus

Even though made to perform the same task, antiviruses are not all the same. Before settling on one, conduct proper research that will reveal the most suitable software to use.

Get Rid of All Spam

Reducing the amount of spam you allow in your inbox is another way to keep attacks away. Even with the best antivirus software, if your system has too many loopholes where an attack is likely to thrive, it can be a difficult task to keep all malware away.

SEE ALSO: Ads as Vehicles for Malicious Attacks on Mobiles

Creating filters and limiting subscriptions can go a long way in creating a guard over the Antivirus. Statistics by csoonline.com show that 94% of all malware comes in by mail.

The Bottom Line

Pick your antivirus software well and keep it updated. Utilize the security system offered by your operating system. Guide your protector against avoidable issues that can cause its vulnerability and, therefore, a compromise in your cybersecurity.