Beyond Free Antivirus: 5 Reasons Smart Consumers Choose Full-Strength Protection for Their Devices

We rely on our phones and computers to stay connected, work, shop, and manage our finances. But as our digital lives expand, so do the risks. Cybercriminals are working around the clock to find new ways to steal data, money, and identities.

Consumers reported losing almost $8.8 billion to scams in 2022, a staggering 30% jump from the year before. And the threat is only growing – the FBI received over 859,000 cybercrime complaints in 2024, with reported losses exceeding $16 billion (a 33% increase from 2023).

These statistics highlight a clear message: online threats can have devastating consequences.

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Read: Nova Scotia Citizens Told to Watch Out for Scams Following Ransomware Attack on Energy Supplier

Online scammers, hackers, and identity thieves are ramping up their attacks, knowing that personal devices often hold a treasure trove of sensitive information.

You might wonder, “Don’t my phone and computer already have security built in?”

It’s true that modern operating systems come with some basic protections – Windows has a default antivirus, Macs have certain safeguards (XProtect, Gatekeeper, FileVault, and SIP), and smartphones have sandboxing and app store vetting, among other defenses. While these are helpful, they only provide a baseline level of security.

Dedicated security solutions go far beyond the basics, offering multiple layers of defense that are constantly updated to handle the latest threats. Here are five reasons to opt for full protection for your devices.

1. Evolving and targeted threats

Cyberthreats have become a part of daily life. They evolve rapidly, and they’re no longer just an issue for large corporations – everyday consumers are also in the crosshairs.

New malware variants and hacking techniques appear daily, often designed to evade standard defenses. For example, in 2023 security researchers discovered 21 new malware families targeting macOS – a 50% increase from the previous year. Many of these were sophisticated stealthy threats (like data-stealing trojans and even Mac ransomware) that a free antivirus might not catch.

Dedicated security software from a reputable provider typically offers advanced threat detection, using machine learning and cloud-based threat intelligence to recognize and block novel threats.

2. Phishing and social engineering

Many modern attacks don’t even use malware – they target the user directly through phishing websites, scam emails, and text messages. Built-in protections might not always detect a cleverly crafted phishing site that impersonates your bank, or a fraudulent link sent via a messaging app. A dedicated solution typically includes anti-phishing and anti-fraud filters to block malicious websites and warn you if you seem poised to fall for a scam.

Bitdefender solutions actively scan web traffic and emails to flag phishing attempts and fraudulent pages in real time, adding a crucial layer of protection when you browse the web, text someone, or check email.

When in doubt about a suspicious text, phone call, or social media interaction that cites your personal data, use Scamio, our free scam-fighting bot.

3. Identity theft

When criminals have your data, they can impersonate you to open credit lines, trick your family and friends, or commit tax and medical fraud in your name.

Read: What to Do if Your Data Gets Caught in a Breach

Recovering from identity theft can be an exhausting process, so it’s far better to prevent it. A service like Bitdefender Digital Identity Protection essentially watches your back 24/7 in the digital world – something no basic antivirus or OS feature is going to do. It’s an extra layer of security focused not on the device, but on you and your personal information.

4. Comprehensive feature set

Beyond just antivirus, dedicated suites offer tools like firewall protection, intrusion prevention, webcam and microphone blockers, and more.

They can detect suspicious behavior on your device that might indicate an intruder.

They also often come with privacy features (such as VPNs or anti-tracking tools) and system optimization. These extras significantly reduce your attack surface.

5. Speed of updates and support

Top security vendors monitor the threat landscape 24/7 and can roll out updates or new features quickly when new threats emerge.

When a major vulnerability or outbreak occurs, you want a team of security experts in your corner.

With a dedicated solution, you benefit from rapid response to new threats – something you might not get with the slower update cycle of built-in OS security.

Plus, companies like Bitdefender provide support and guidance if you suspect an infection or other problem, which can be a lifesaver.

Deploy full-strength protection today!

Using a quality dedicated security solution is like having a professional team guarding your house, rather than just a lock on the door. It sharply lowers the risk of a novel virus, crafty hacker, or opportunistic scammer slipping through the cracks. Given what’s at stake – your money, private information, and peace of mind – the extra protection is well worth it.

Bitdefender Ultimate Security offers all-in-one digital protection for your entire household, covering Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS under one subscription.

It includes award-winning malware detection, a robust firewall, anti-phishing and anti-fraud filtering, unlimited VPN traffic for privacy, a password manager, parental controls for families, and even an Identity Theft Protection service with Dark Web monitoring.

In a world where our personal devices serve as gateways to our bank accounts, cherished memories, and daily communications, security is no luxury – it’s a necessity. Stay one step ahead by choosing a security solution that suits your needs. Don’t wait until a virus wipes out your files or a hacker siphons your bank account.