As a business leader, you’re always looking for ways to increase revenue, cut expenses, and grow your bottom line. Implementing AI tools, shopping services, and running a more efficient operation are great ways to do that. One place you do NOT want to cut corners is using free antivirus or firewall software.
In today’s blog, we’ll share why these seemingly helpful software solutions are a detriment to your business and why a 10-minute call with our team might just be the best investment you’ll make this year.
Free software often lacks necessary features and is limited in what it can detect.
Free antivirus software and firewall solutions can protect your business against some known viruses but not all of them, and they likely won’t have the ability to protect you against other comprehensive threats, like malicious files, unknown or unidentified threats, and more. Cybercriminals are constantly rolling out new and “improved” viruses to trick even the most robust security solutions, which makes it difficult to believe that free, infrequently updated antivirus solutions could offer the level of protection needed to keep you secure.
There’s no such thing as a free lunch.
While free cybersecurity solutions sound like a good way to save a few bucks, you have to stop and realize these programs will make their money somewhere. The most common ways they make money are through ads, sponsored recommendations, and collecting and selling user data. They collect and sell your personal information, like age, gender, and installed apps, to third-party advertisers.
Some free solutions are already infected with malware.
Ironically, these free cybersecurity tools can come with malware already installed to infect your computer upon downloading them. It’s also difficult to determine the difference between real free software solutions and fake ones created by hackers looking to trick unsuspecting business owners who hope to save a buck into downloading an infected version that immediately opens up your network to them.
Free antivirus software is mostly reactive, detecting infections after they’ve happened.
The point of having cybersecurity solutions is to try to prevent a data breach from occurring in the first place. Most free solutions are reactive and won’t keep unwanted intruders out; they simply alert you when one has already breached your network. If you’re going with a free solution, make sure you have a robust recovery plan in place. You’ll likely need it.
Cybersecurity solutions are not as expensive as most business owners think and are more cost-effective than dealing with a data breach. If you have been using free antivirus or firewall software in your organization, it’s time to level up. Our cybersecurity experts will provide you with a FREE Security Risk Assessment that will detail if and where you’re vulnerable and what to do about it. Schedule yours by calling us at 844-919-8534.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cybersecurity
Get expert answers to your cybersecurity questions and learn why investing in professional solutions is essential for protecting your business.
Q1: Why shouldn't businesses use free antivirus or firewall software?
A: Free antivirus and firewall software often lack necessary features, have limited detection capabilities, and may not protect against comprehensive threats. They are typically reactive rather than preventive and may even come infected with malware.
Q2: What are the limitations of free cybersecurity solutions?
A: Free solutions often:
- Cannot detect all known viruses
- Lack protection against malicious files and unknown threats
- Are infrequently updated
- Offer insufficient protection against evolving cyber threats
Q2: How do free cybersecurity software companies make money?
A: Free cybersecurity software companies often generate revenue through:
- Displaying ads
- Offering sponsored recommendations
- Collecting and selling user data to third-party advertisers
Q3: Is there a risk in downloading free antivirus software?
A: Yes, there are several risks:
- Some free solutions may already be infected with malware
- It can be difficult to distinguish between legitimate free software and fake versions created by hackers
- Downloading infected versions can immediately compromise your network
Q4: Are free antivirus solutions proactive or reactive?
A: Free antivirus solutions are mostly reactive. They often detect infections after they've already occurred, rather than preventing breaches in the first place.
Q5: How does the cost of paid cybersecurity solutions compare to potential losses from a data breach?
A: Paid cybersecurity solutions are generally more cost-effective than dealing with the aftermath of a data breach. These solutions are not as expensive as most business owners think.
Q6: What should businesses do if they're currently using free antivirus or firewall software?
A: Businesses currently using free solutions should consider upgrading to paid, professional cybersecurity services. Schedule a FREE Security Risk Assessment with our cybersecurity experts to identify vulnerabilities and determine appropriate solutions.
Q7: How can businesses get a Security Risk Assessment?
A: Businesses can schedule a FREE Security Risk Assessment by 844-919-8534.
