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Girl Scouts and OpenText empower future leaders of tomorrow with cyber resilience

The transition to a digital-first world enables us to connect, work and live in a realm where information is available at our fingertips. The children of today will be working in an environment of tomorrow that is shaped by hyperconnectivity. Operating in this...

World Backup Day reminds us all just how precious our data is

Think of all the important files sitting on your computer right now. If your computer crashed tomorrow, would you be able to retrieve your important files? Would your business suffer as a result? As more and more of our daily activities incorporate digital and online...

3 Reasons We Forget Small & Midsized Businesses are Major Targets for Ransomware

The ransomware attacks that make headlines and steer conversations among cybersecurity professionals usually involve major ransoms, huge corporations and notorious hacking groups. Kia Motors, Accenture, Acer, JBS…these companies were some of the largest to be...

How Ransomware Sneaks In

Ransomware has officially made the mainstream. Dramatic headlines announce the latest attacks and news outlets highlight the staggeringly high ransoms businesses pay to retrieve their stolen data. And it’s no wonder why – ransomware attacks are on the rise and the...

An MSP and SMB guide to disaster preparation, recovery and remediation

Introduction It’s important for a business to be prepared with an exercised business continuity and disaster recovery (BC/DR) plan plan before its hit with ransomware so that it can resume operations as quickly as possible. Key steps and solutions should be followed...

Podcast: Cyber resilience in a remote work world

The global pandemic that began to send us packing from our offices in March of last year upended our established way of working overnight. We’re still feeling the effects. Many office workers have yet to return to the office in the volumes they worked in pre-pandemic....

5 Tips to get Better Efficacy out of Your IT Security Stack

If you’re an admin, service provider, security executive, or are otherwise affiliated with the world of IT solutions, then you know that one of the biggest challenges to overcome is efficacy. Especially in terms of cybersecurity, efficacy is something of an amorphous...

How Cryptocurrency and Cybercrime Trends Influence One Another

Typically, when cryptocurrency values change, one would expect to see changes in crypto-related cybercrime. In particular, trends in Bitcoin values tend to be the bellwether you can use to predict how other currencies’ values will shift, and there are usually...

Tips to make your summer travels cyber safe

Ready, set, pack! Summer travel season is here and that means family road trips, beach vacations, international adventures and more. While summertime is prime time for getaways, did you know it’s also prime time for online fraud? Scammers are targeting the travel industry, putting millions of travelers at increased risk. Research shows that the travel and tourism sector ranked third in cyberattacks, with nearly 31% of hospitality organizations experiencing a data breach and a record 340 million people affected by cybercrimes. According to Mastercard, travel-related fraud in 2024 increased by 18% during the summer peak season and 28% in the winter peak season. 

Why travelers are prime targets

Being in an unfamiliar environment can put your personal information at risk if you’re relying on public Wi-Fi networks, using shared devices, and carrying valuable personal and business data on mobile devices. Let’s be honest, when you go into “vacation mode” and start relaxing, it’s only natural that you might also start letting your guard down. Even the best trips can have stressful moments, and when you miss a flight or get lost in a new destination, it’s easy to become less vigilant about protecting your cybersecurity. This is especially true when you travel to foreign countries. In fact, 90% of international travelers admit to risky tech practices while abroad. Fewer than 1 in 3 travelers (31%) protect their data with a virtual private network (VPN) when traveling internationally.

What to know before you go

Believe it or not, the risks to your data security start long before your vacation begins. As soon as you start booking your trip, the cybercriminals start circling. Fraud rates in sectors associated with the early stages of trip planning increased more than 12% between 2023 and 2024. At a time when inflation and economic pressures are on the rise, people are looking for deep discounts, and scammers are seizing the opportunity to steal your private data and your money.

  • Fake travel websites and rental listings: When you find a killer price on a luxury cruise, a European tour or an oceanfront Airbnb, take another look before you book! Scammers use phony offers, manipulated destination photos, and fake confirmation links to lure victims into “purchasing” great travel deals. Always double check and confirm you’re dealing with a legitimate website or listing before you hand over any credit card information.
  • Phishing scams: Phishing scams that target travel-related platforms are on the rise. Cybercriminals pose as legitimate organizations and use fake emails, text messages and phone calls to lure you into giving up financial information. These messages often ask you to click on links that embed malicious software onto your device and steal your sensitive data. In 2024, the travel website booking.com reported a 500%-900% increase in travel-related phishing scams. This rise was attributed to the large number of scams using AI, making it easier for criminals to mimic trusted sources. If you get a suspicious message, call the company or go to their website and log in directly before clicking on any links.
  • Loyalty fraud: Loyalty fraud, also known as points fraud, happens when scammers steal points or personal information from a loyalty program. The travel industry is especially vulnerable to this type of attack because so many travel-related companies, including travel agents, cruise lines, airlines and hotels, offer points programs for frequent travelers. Thieves often access loyalty accounts with credentials stolen in a data breach. Be sure to create strong passwords for your accounts and check your balances regularly.

Pre-trip security

Before you hit the road, help protect your digital data and devices with a few simple security practices.

  • Alert your financial institutions: Only about half of travelers (52%) alert their financial institutions before traveling abroad, but it’s a powerful way to fight cybercrime. When banks and credit card companies know your travel plans, it’s much easier for them to flag any suspicious transactions.
  • Turn off your Bluetooth:  Bluetooth technology automatically creates wireless connections and can give cybercriminals the ability to see what apps and websites you’re logged into. Only 44% of travelers say they make sure to turn off their Bluetooth signal, but it’s a simple way to thwart hackers. It’s also a good idea to turn off device sharing features and update your passwords before a trip.
  • Update your Wi-Fi setting: Joining unknown Wi-Fi networks is very risky and can open up your personal data to hackers. Since public Wi-Fi often has weak security,  it’s important that your phone doesn’t connect to unsecured networks automatically. Make sure to go into your phone settings and disable auto-join for unknown Wi-Fi networks. It’s a simple way to add a layer of protection when you travel.
  • Use “Find My Device” features: Enable the tracking features on your devices that can locate them if they’re lost or stolen – Find My device for iOS and Find Hub for Android.

Cybersecurity travel risks

  • Rental cars: Did you know that the simple act of syncing your phone to your rental car’s infotainment system can expose your sensitive information to cybercrime? Your phone contains all kinds of information that hackers can use, including contacts, text messages, passwords and more. Infotainment systems store your information each time you connect, and it stays there unless you manually delete it. Security experts say while 57% of people sync their phones to rental cars, only half of them take steps to remove their information. Always remember to delete your profile and data from your rental car before returning it!
  • Screen snoopers: Be cautious of screen snoopers (aka shoulder surfers) who try to see the activity on your laptop or phone in public places like planes, airports, and restaurants. To prevent hackers from stealing your passwords and other private information, use privacy screen protectors to shield your screens from prying eyes and always stay aware of your surroundings.
  • Airport and hotel Wi-Fi:  Always be wary of public Wi-Fi networks when you’re on the road. They’re often unprotected and can make it easy for cybercriminals to intercept your data. Poor Wi-Fi security at airports and hotels can allow hackers to swipe your credentials, lock you out of accounts, and even demand a ransom for your stolen data. To ensure safety while online on public WIFI, purchase a VPN for your devices, like Webroot’s Secure VPN.
  • Fake hotspot attacks: Fraudsters often set up fake hotspots to steal your information. Sometimes they alter the name of a genuine hotspot slightly (Starbucks-Coffee instead of StarbucksCoffee) to trick you into connecting. Always double-check the full network name before logging on to a public hotspot. Also, check to see if the site is using encryption. Legitimate sites that begin with “https” protect your information and make it unreadable to hackers.
  • Charging stations: Public charging stations are super convenient when you’re running low on battery, but they can also pose security risks. Cybercriminals can install malicious software on these stations to steal your device’s data, a tactic known as juice jacking. Always avoid plugging directly into public charging stations and play it safe by packing your own wall chargers, car chargers and external batteries when you travel.
  • Business centers and airport Lounges: Business Centers and lounges typically provide desktop computers for simple tasks like checking emails or printing boarding passes. While convenient, these public computers may be risky, as attackers can plant malware or install hardware that records your keystrokes. When traveling, use your personal devices whenever possible.

Travel safety best practices

  • Use Wi-Fi networks safely: Always connect using the public Wi-Fi setting, and do not enable auto-reconnect. Always confirm an HTTPS connection when browsing the internet. Avoid accessing websites that require you to supply personal data, such as social security numbers.
  • Avoid financial sites: Refrain from checking your personal banking apps or financial information over public Wi-Fi.
  • Use VPN protection: A VPN encrypts your internet connection, providing a secure channel for your data. Webroot Secure VPN gives you security and peace of mind by protecting your personal information when you’re on public Wi-Fi.
  • Enable two-factor authentication: Use Two-factor Authentication (TFA) on your gadgets and electronic devices. Adding an extra layer of security to your accounts can prevent unauthorized access.
  • Limit public posts about your location: Avoid sharing specific details about your location and travel plans on social media to prevent potential targeting by scammers.
  • Check mobile device settings: Adjust the screen settings on your devices to allow for a shorter automatic sleep feature. Implement screen locks, biometric security, and privacy settings for location services.
  • Bring portable chargers: Avoid using public charging stations by bringing your own power sources.
  • Install comprehensive security software: Use antivirus solutions to safeguard you from online threats, including bank fraud and identity theft. Webroot Total Protection offers comprehensive security, including real-time threat detection and response, automatic updates, and cloud backup. Other features include Wi-Fi security monitoring, secure browsing, and password management.

No matter what your summer destination, make cybersecurity part of your travel plans. From securing your Wi-Fi connection and turning off Bluetooth to enabling two-factor authentication, small steps can make a big difference. Let Webroot keep all your digital data safe while you’re on the go. Then all you have to worry about is remembering to turn on your out-of-office reply!

Looking for more information?

Fighting Back Against Loyalty Fraud

Travel-Related Phishing

Protect Yourself Against AI Phishing Attacks

Travel Scams to Watch Out For

Build strong digital defenses for your entire family

The month of June is a time for fun in the sun and a break from the school year, but did you know it’s also the perfect time to step up your family’s online security? June is Internet Safety Month, a yearly reminder to strengthen your defenses against online threats. In today’s hyper-connected world, we use the internet for just about everything, from shopping to banking to streaming and work. That goes for your kids as well. Many of their favorite activities, including gaming and connecting with friends on social media, are connected to the internet.  While all this access means added convenience, it also means constant threats to your family’s online safety.

From phishing scams to malware, hackers are constantly looking for ways to exploit weaknesses in cybersecurity systems and software. Their goal is always the same: to get access to personal data and use it for profit. The rising numbers tell the story. In 2024, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) received more than 850,000 cybercrime complaints, with reported losses exceeding $10.3 billion. This is partly due to the increase in data breaches. Studies show that 51% of Americans report they’ve been victims of a data breach, and 64% say they’ve changed their online behavior for fear of escalating online threats like ransomware and identity theft.

Keep summer screen time safe

It’s not just adults getting targeted online. Children and teens are increasingly exposed to scams (even extortion scams), cyberbullying, and inappropriate content—especially during summer when screen time surges. A recent Pew Research study found that 45% of teens are online almost constantly. So how do you let your kids enjoy their screens safely? Webroot Total Protection and Webroot Essentials offer parental controls that make it easy to manage your children’s online activity and content access. You can block specific websites, filter out inappropriate content and set daily limits on computer time. You can also monitor what sites your kids visit and interact with, and even tailor different levels of protection for each child. Whether your kids are watching YouTube, chatting on Discord, or gaming with friends, it’s a simple way to keep them safe without having to hover over them every time they’re online. 

Protect every device

As we spend more time on our mobile devices, cybercriminals are following suit. A recent security report shows that 70% of fraud is now carried out through mobile channels. From phones and tablets to laptops, the mobile devices your family relies on daily are brimming with personal data. Now more than ever, we need to take steps to protect ourselves and our family. Webroot Essentials provides multi-device protection with real-time threat intelligence. Whether you’re on Android, iOS, Windows or Mac, all the devices in your household are constantly safeguarded against the latest online threats.

Strengthen your password security

Are you still using passwords like your dog’s name and 123? And what about your kids? Chances are their Roblox passwords aren’t as tough to hack as they should be. If there’s one weak link in most people’s security, it’s their passwords. Cybercriminals know that, and they’re taking full advantage. In fact, the 2025 Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report found 81% of data breaches were caused by compromised passwords. Here are some tips to keep all your family’s passwords secure.

  • Make it complicated: It’s important to create long and complex passwords and avoid using anything that’s easy to guess. That means no “Password” or “123456”. It also means no pet names or kid’s names, since hackers can often find those details on social media.
  •  Don’t recycle: Never use the same login for more than one account. It may be easier to remember, but if your username and password for one account are exposed in a data breach, hackers can use them to try and break into all your other accounts.
  • Use a password manager: Let a password manager save you some headaches by doing the hard work for you. Webroot solutions include password managers that store credentials and credit card information and automatically fill in login information, so the whole family can stay secure without having to remember every login. Be careful storing your credit card information on shared devices. You don’t want a shipment of 70,000 lollipops at your door.

Defend against social engineering scams

It’s important to stay aware of the latest online threats. Social engineering scams are designed to gain your trust and then trick you into sharing sensitive details by clicking on fake links or downloading malicious software. The most common type of social engineering is phishing. In a phishing attack, hackers pretend to be someone you trust and use fraudulent emails, texts and websites to try and steal personal information.

Scammers often use phishing to target children. They pose as friends, influencers, or game platforms to trick them into clicking fake links and handing over details like credit card numbers. These scams often start with an offer of an exciting reward or a prize. Take some time to talk with your kids about these common scams.

  • Fake game reward scams: Kids are offered free in-game currency on a popular platform like Fortnite, then asked to click phony links and provide sensitive details. It’s important to remind your children to redeem rewards through official game platforms only and never enter login or payment information into random pop-ups or suspicious links.
  • Social media impersonation scams: Scammers create fake social media profiles to pose as a friend, classmate, or influencer, and use stolen photos or AI-generated content to build seemingly legitimate profiles. The goal is to trick kids into clicking dangerous links or downloading malware. Make sure your children know that even if someone looks familiar, they may not be who they say they are.
  • Friendship and romance scams: A scammer builds an emotional connection with a child, then starts asking for sensitive info like Social Security numbers, photos, or money. Remind your kids that if someone won’t use video chat or meet in person, they’re probably not legitimate. Also remind your children, adding people to your social media friends group
  • Influencer giveaway scams: Fake influencer accounts host phony contests and message “winners” asking for a fee or bank account details. Remind your kids that they should only follow verified social media accounts, and that a real contest won’t ask them to pay to redeem a prize.

Secure your home network

Home security means more than just deadbolts and alarms. With smart TVs, video doorbells, and wireless thermostats, our homes are more connected than ever. While all these Internet of Things (IoT) devices making our lives more convenient, each one is a potential entry point for hackers. Webroot Secure VPN provides encrypted connections for safe browsing at home. When your family is on the go, it protects your online privacy on unsecured networks and shields your personal information from cyberthieves.

Internet safety checklist

  • Update all your operating systems and applications to the latest versions – make sure to do the same for your kids.
  • Enable automatic updates for software and security for the entire family.
  • Run a full system scan to detect any existing malware on all devices in your household.
  • Enable multi-factor authentication on all critical accounts.
  • Create unique passwords for each online account.
  • Change passwords for your family’s most important accounts often, such as banking, email, and social media.
  • Review settings on all social media accounts and make sure all kids’ profiles are private.
  • Check app permissions, especially on your kids’ devices.
  • Clear all browser cookies and caches monthly.
  • Be cautious with suspicious links or unknown senders. Be sure the whole family knows to verify sender addresses before responding to requests for information or clicking any links.
  • Consider comprehensive online security with Webroot Total Protection, which includes antivirus and identity protection, unlimited cloud backup, and up to $1 million in identity theft expense reimbursement. Get protection for up to ten devices and peace of mind that your family’s digital lives are secure.

Cybercriminals never take a break and neither should you. Internet Safety Month is the perfect opportunity to step up the digital safety of your entire household. And remember – online security isn’t just an annual event. Your sensitive data deserves year-round protection, and you can get it with family-friendly solutions from Webroot. Don’t wait for a data breach or other disaster to take action. Keep your kids safe and your data secure by strengthening your digital defenses today!

Looking for more information?

Avoiding Scams that Target Kids and Teens

Protecting Young Online Gamers

How Americans View Data Privacy

Social Security Numbers and Identity Theft

Protect Yourself from AI-Enabled Phishing

Common Types of Phishing Attacks

Why Use a Password Manager?

Defending Your Digital Identity from Evolving Threats

Mobile security matters: Protecting your phone from text scams

It all starts so innocently. You get a text saying “Your package couldn’t be delivered. Click here to reschedule.”  Little do you know, clicking that link could open the door for scammers to steal your identity, empty your bank account, or even plant malicious software (malware) on your device. Unless you know what to look out for, one little tap on the wrong text could cost you money and peace of mind.

Text scams, also known as smishing (SMS + phishing), are on the rise. These fraudulent  messages are sent by cybercriminals and are showing up more often and getting harder to spot. The goal is to get you to give up sensitive personal details that can be used to hack into your accounts, and they are alarmingly successful. The Federal Trade Commission reports that in 2024, consumers lost $470 million to scams that started with text messages.

Watch out for these common scams

Package delivery alerts

Package delivery alerts are the most common text scam. They often impersonate trusted delivery services like UPS, FedEx, and USPS. They claim there’s a delivery problem, then try to trick you into acting quickly by creating a sense of urgency. Because so many of us shop online and have packages delivered regularly, this is a scam that’s easy to fall for. Instead of clicking a link in a suspicious text, go directly to the delivery service’s website and enter your tracking number manually.

Tip: Messages like “Click now to avoid fees” are a red flag that you should make you think twice.

Screenshot of mobile phone screen displaying an example of a package delivery scam.
Photo credit: TextMagic

Unpaid toll alerts

These scams claim you have an overdue toll charge and demand that you click a link to make a payment or you’ll be hit with late charges. Don’t do it! These scammers are trying to gather personal data like your driver’s license number and credit card information so they can steal from you. Remember, fake texts are often sent from phone numbers or email addresses you do not recognize, so never click on a link sent from an unknown number.

Mobile phone screen displaying example of a text scam involving a toll violation.

Bank account alerts

These scams look like they’re from your bank and claim there’s an issue with your funds.  You’re asked for sensitive information like bank logins and passwords, which can be used to drain your bank account. They direct you to click a fake link or call a phony number to resolve it.

Tip: Most major banks, including Chase, Wells Fargo and Bank of America, will never ask for personal or account information via text.

Mobile phone screen with an example of a text scam.
Photo credit: Wells Fargo

Wrong number texts

Wrong number texts are designed to seem like a legitimate accident. They start with a simple text like “Hi Mary, are we still on for Thursday?” and you respond “Sorry, wrong number.” The unknown person then tries to start up a friendly conversation, with the goal of establishing a connection and sometimes even cultivating a romantic relationship. It’s common for these cybercriminals to try and con you into a fraudulent investment like a cryptocurrency scam.

Text showing an example of a text scam involving a fake wrong number.

Task scams

Task scams are fake job opportunities. You get a text promising online work with lucrative pay and flexibility. The offer may entail fun tasks like getting paid to shop, but the purpose is to lure you into sharing personal information like your social security number, which can be used to steal your identity. As always, if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Text showing an example of a text scam involving a fake job recruiter.

Prize or gift card scams

It’s easy to feel lucky if you get a text claiming you’ve won a prize, a gift card or other type of reward. Sadly, many people fall for this type of fraud. These messages appear to be from legitimate retailers like Amazon, Walmart or Target. They say things like “You’ve been selected for a $100 gift card!” and tell you to click a link to claim your prize. These scams often work because they generate a sense of excitement and urgency, but they’re just another way to trick you into clicking and entering personal or payment information. In reality, there’s no prize – just a phishing site or malware ready to steal your data.

Screenshot of mobile phone screen displaying an example of a fake prize win.
Photo credit: TextMagic

Mobile security checklist

Most of us use our phones for everything – banking, shopping, messaging, and storing personal information. That makes them a treasure trove of sensitive data and a high-value target for cyberthieves. Here are some tips to help you strengthen your mobile security against text scams and other types of fraud.

  • Don’t click: If you get a text from an unknown sender, do not click on any links. Reach out to the company using a confirmed phone number or website to check if it’s a legitimate message.
  • Don’t share: Never share any of your personal or financial information via text. Remember that if someone is asking you to do this, they’re most likely a scammer.
  • Fight the fear: Be wary about responding to a text that sounds urgent or threatening. Scammers love to take advantage by creating a sense of fear.
  • Stay updated: By keeping your phone’s software up to date, you’ll always have the latest security patches. This is an important tool for protecting against viruses and other malware.
  • Stay vigilant: If something seems too good to be true, it likely is. You probably haven’t won that latest iPhone, especially if you don’t remember entering a contest. Always take a moment to think critically before acting.
  • Use strong passwords: Long, complex and unique passwords are a cornerstone of mobile security. Webroot solutions include password managers that help you stay safe while simplifying your life.
  • Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): Use two-factor authentication on your accounts, especially for banking and email.
  • Scan regularly: Scan your device on a regular basis with trusted security software. Whether you’re using Android or iOS, Webroot Mobile Security offers automatic scanning of apps and updates, as well as real-time protection against phishing and malicious websites.
  • Use a VPN: Consider usinga VPN (Virtual Private Network) to protect your personal information when you’re on public Wi-Fi. Webroot Secure VPN provides safe browsing and online transactions for enhanced privacy and data security.

Text scams are a sneaky way for hackers to get access on your private data, but you don’t have to fall prey to them. By staying alert to the subtle signs of text scams and arming yourself with the security of Webroot, you can stay safe from the latest mobile threats. Browse, shop, and bank with confidence, knowing that your phone — and everything on it — is protected.

Introducing Text Scams Detection on Webroot Mobile Security for Android!

Stay one step ahead of scammers with Webroot’s latest feature: Text Scams Detection. Our advanced technology scans incoming text messages for suspicious links and fraudulent content, protecting you from phishing attempts and malicious schemes like fake delivery tracking links or fraudulent bank notifications. With real-time alerts and flagging, you can confidently navigate your digital world without the fear of falling victim to text scams. Download Webroot Mobile Security for Android today and experience peace of mind like never before!

Explore Webroot plans or Download Mobile Security for Android now from My Account.

Looking for more information and solutions?

Top Text Scams

The Strategy Behind Phishing Texts

How to Spot and Report Text Scams

Putting a Stop to Spam Texts

Protect Yourself from Text Scams

The Value of a VPN

Protecting Your Digital Life

AI-enabled phishing attacks on consumers: How to detect and protect

Phishing attacks are a significant threat to consumers, with cybercriminals constantly evolving their tactics to deceive unsuspecting individuals. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into phishing schemes has made these attacks even more sophisticated and challenging to detect.

AI-enabled phishing attacks seriously threaten consumers and their data. The volume of these attacks is staggering with an estimated 3.4 billion spam emails sent daily. The financial impact of phishing attacks amount to over $52 million so far in 2025. The threat of AI phishing attacks is pervasive, so let’s get prepared. Find out how AI enhances phishing attacks on consumers and how you can learn to identify and protect yourself.

How AI enhances phishing attacks

1. Personalized phishing 

AI algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data from social media, public records, and other online sources to create highly personalized phishing messages. By understanding the target’s interests, behaviors, and communication patterns, AI can craft messages that appear more legitimate and relevant, increasing the likelihood of the target falling for the scam.

For example, you receive a text message from your bank using your name and asking you to authorize a recent purchase that happens to be from Amazon or another retailer you frequent. To authorize the purchase, you need to click an obfuscated link that  will bring you to a fake website that mimics your bank’s website. When you enter your information, it will be stolen.  

2. Automated phishing campaigns

AI can automate the process of creating and sending phishing emails, allowing cybercriminals to launch large-scale campaigns with minimal effort. Machine learning models can generate convincing email templates, select appropriate recipients, and even schedule the timing of emails to maximize their impact.

Automated phishing scams usually aren’t full of personalize data, but are targeted to an audience that will think the email was meant for them.

3. Deepfake technology

Deepfake technology, powered by AI, can create realistic audio and video content that mimics the appearance and voice of trusted individuals. This technology can be used in phishing attacks to create fake video calls or voice messages from a CEO or other authority figures, convincing employees to transfer funds or share sensitive information.

How to detect AI-enabled phishing attacks

1. Scrutinize email addresses and URLs

Always check the sender’s email address and the URLs in the email. Phishing emails often use addresses that look similar to legitimate ones, but have slight variations. Hover over links to see the actual URL before clicking. For example: info1@wellsfargo.com

2. Look for generic greetings

Phishing emails often use generic greetings like “Dear Customer” instead of your name. Legitimate companies usually personalize their communications.

3. Check for spelling and grammar errors

Many phishing emails contain spelling and grammar mistakes. While AI-generated emails are becoming more sophisticated, errors can still be a red flag.

4. Be wary of urgent or threatening language

Phishing emails often create a sense of urgency or fear to prompt immediate action. Be cautious of emails that threaten account suspension or demand immediate payment.

5. Verify unexpected attachments or links

If you receive an unexpected attachment or link, verify its legitimacy before opening it. Contact the sender through a different communication channel to confirm. Also, ensure the sender is legitimate.

6. Use multi-factor authentication (MFA)

Enable multi-factor authentication on your accounts. This adds an extra layer of security, making it more difficult for cybercriminals to gain access even if they obtain your login credentials.

Protecting against AI-enabled phishing attacks

1. Advanced email filtering

Use advanced email filtering solutions that leverage AI and machine learning to detect and block phishing emails. Google blocks about 100 million phishing emails a day.

2. Regular software updates

Keep your software and systems up to date. Regular updates often include security patches that protect against known vulnerabilities.

3. User education and awareness

Stay informed about the latest phishing tactics and educate yourself on how to recognize phishing attempts. Awareness is a crucial defense against phishing attacks.

4. Identity protection and antivirus

Invest in all-in-one protection for your identity that includes a password manager, VPN, antivirus and even dark web monitoring. Webroot’s Total Protection allows you to live your life digitally without worry.  

Stay in the know

AI-enabled phishing attacks represent a significant evolution in the tactics used by cybercriminals. As these attacks become more sophisticated, it is essential for consumers to adopt advanced security measures and stay vigilant. By leveraging AI for defense, investing in user education, we can better protect ourselves against the growing threat of AI-driven phishing attacks.

To learn more about how to protect yourself and the solutions that help keep your digital life safe, visit Webroot.

Protect yourself from tax season scams

For most of us, tax season is all about finding documents, filling out forms, and crossing your fingers you’re getting a refund. But while you’re busy trying to get your returns filed on time, tax scammers and identity thieves are busy trying to steal your precious personal information.

During tax season, a vast amount of valuable personal and financial data is shared online, making it prime time for cybercriminals to rob you of your confidential information, identity, and money. According to the IRS, almost 300,000 cases of identity theft were reported in 2024, leading to $5.5 billion in tax fraud. That’s why each year, the IRS releases its list of Dirty Dozen Tax Scams. Here are some of the top schemes you need to watch out for this tax season.

Common tax scams to watch out for in 2025

  • IRS Impersonation: The most common type of tax fraud starts with a phone call, text or email. The fraudster claims to be from the IRS and says you owe back taxes. They demand immediate payment, using threats of arrest, business or driver’s license suspension, or deportation. These scams often target vulnerable people, such as the elderly or immigrants, and take advantage of the fear and uncertainty many people have about tax returns. It’s easy to avoid these scams by remembering this important tip – the first time the IRS contacts you, it will be by U.S. mail only, never by phone, text or email!
  • Phishing emails and text messages: Phishing schemes can happen through emails, texts or social media. Scammers send messages to try to trick you into sharing sensitive information like W-2 forms, usernames, passwords, and account details. They sometimes offer big refunds or threaten to charge penalties. Never click links or open attachments in unsolicited messages, as they may contain malicious software. You can learn how to report suspected phishing here.
  • Tax Preparers Impersonators: Ghost tax return preparers pretend to be tax professionals, but they’re not actually certified. They may promise large or fast refunds to get your business. Impersonators often fill out your tax return, but then refuse to sign it or include their IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN), which is required by law. Sometimes they simply file a fraudulent return and take your money, leaving you liable for any false information and penalties.
  • Identity theft refund fraud: Scammers use your stolen data to file a fraudulent electronic tax return in your name. They collect a refund, and you may not even know you’ve been targeted until your own return is rejected. The best way to avoid tax refund fraud is to file your return early. If a criminal files first, reclaiming  your refund can be a long and difficult process. 

Warning signs of tax scams

  • Unexpected communications claiming to be from IRS: The IRS will never ask for sensitive information or payment via email, phone, text or social media.
  • Demands for immediate payment: The IRS will never demand immediate payment – you will always be given the opportunity to appeal a tax debt.
  • Threats of legal action or arrest: The IRS will not threaten you with police action or deportation.
  • Requests for unusual payment methods: The IRS doesn’t demand specific types of payment, including in-person payments, prepaid debit cards or gift cards.
  • Promises of unusually large refunds: If someone promises you a bigger-than-normal refund, be wary. You could be scammed into filing a fraudulent return and end up on the hook for any false claims.

How to protect yourself

  • Verify tax preparer credentials: Always use a trusted tax preparer to prepare your return.
  • Use secure filing methods: Here are tips to file your tax return safely.
  • Protect personal information: Treat your personal information as confidential files. Don’t carry your Social Security card with you and guard your tax records and other private data.
  • Report suspicious activity: Report any suspected tax fraud here.
  • Know how the IRS communicates: Physical mail is the preferred form of messaging for the IRS. Always confirm the validity of any IRS communications.
  • Get antivirus protection for all your personal data: Webroot solutions safeguard against tax-related phishing scams, as well as viruses and malware designed to steal your private information.
  • Use identity protection: For tax season and every other season, Webroot Premium and Webroot Total Protection offer all-in-one device and identity protection to keep your valuable data safe from scammers. A single subscription can safeguard your entire digital life with dark web monitoring, rapid alerts regarding fraudulent activity, 24/7 customer support, and $1 million reimbursement for stolen funds and other expenses related to identity theft.
  • Back up your tax records: Make digital and physical backups of your tax documents. Store electronic copies in an encrypted cloud storage service  and keep printed copies in a secure location. Carbonite is the perfect solution. It encrypts your tax documents and all your other data in the cloud and offers continuous backups and unlimited storage.

What to do if you’re a victim of tax fraud

Looking for more information and solutions?

Tips for Choosing a Tax Return Preparer

IRS – Tax Scam Warning

Common Tax Season Scams

Avoiding AI Tax Scams

Identity Management Day: Safeguarding your digital identity

Imagine waking up one day to find that someone has stolen your identity, opened credit cards in your name, or even withdrawn money from your bank accounts. It’s something that can easily happen if your personal data falls into the hands of cybercriminals. In our interconnected world, data breaches and identity theft are a constant threat, making it more important than ever to guard your sensitive personal information. That’s why April 8th is Identity Management Day, a reminder to take steps to protect your digital identity from online threats.

So, what is your digital identity? It’s all the private data that’s gathered about you on the internet – from details like your email address, physical address, and date of birth, to bank account information and even purchasing habits. The more information you share online, the more vulnerable you become to cyber threats. For example, when you let a company save your address and credit card information, it may make your next online purchase easier, but it also increases the risk to your data if that company gets hacked. During the third quarter of 2024, data breaches exposed more than 422 million records worldwide.

Tips for protecting your data

Cyber thieves are getting smarter and smarter using methods like phishing and malware to gain access to a piece of your personal information.  Once they have that they can use it to gain access to your digital life, commit fraud impersonating you, or sell it to others.  That’s why staying diligent and protecting your online identity is critical.  The best ways to do that are:

  • Strong passwords: The number one way to protect your personal information is the simplest one. Make your passwords long, complex, and unique. Never recycle them! That way if one of your passwords is leaked, hackers won’t be able to use it to access any of your other accounts.
  • Password managers: Of course, we all need many unique passwords and it’s tricky to keep track of them all, especially when they’re complicated and one-of-a-kind. That’s where a password manager comes in. All Webroot solutions such as Webroot Essentials include a password manager to keep your online safety simple. You only need to remember one password and Webroot manages the rest – keeping all your logins, passwords, and payment details organized and protected.
  • Multi-factor authentication (MFA): By adding an extra security step, like a code sent to your phone, multi-factor authentication (MFA) makes it much harder for cybercriminals to break into your accounts.
  • Identity protection services: Antivirus programs protect against a wide range of malicious software designed to steal your personal information. For unmatched security and support, Webroot Premium and Webroot Total Protection offer all-in-one protection and include real-time monitoring to safeguard you from identity theft, as well as bank and credit fraud.
  • Credit card fraud alerts: For extra security, set up fraud alerts by contacting your credit card company or any of the three major credit bureaus – Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion. Fraud alerts require creditors to take extra steps to verify your identity before opening accounts and lines of credit in your name.
  • Bank account alerts: Set up bank account alerts to help monitor for any unusual banking activity. You can choose to get alerts via phone, email or text.
  • Credit card freeze: Consider putting a credit card freeze on any credit cards you’re not using. This puts a temporary hold on your card and prevents all purchases until you decide to unfreeze it.
  • Check bank statements: Review your bank statements monthly. Checking on your statements can help you spot suspicious activity and catch fraudulent transactions quickly.

Keeping  your digital identity safe is not just a one-day event, it’s an ongoing commitment to protect your personal information. Identity Management Day serves as a valuable reminder to be proactive. From using MFA and strong passwords to setting up alerts on your credit cards and bank account, you can help safeguard your sensitive information. Don’t wait until you become a victim of identity theft – start strengthening your identity security today.

Looking for more information and solutions?

Girl Scouts and OpenText empower future leaders of tomorrow with cyber resilience

The transition to a digital-first world enables us to connect, work and live in a realm where information is available at our fingertips. The children of today will be working in an environment of tomorrow that is shaped by hyperconnectivity. Operating in this environment means our present and future generations need to understand the importance of being aware of the benefits and risks of an interconnected world. Establishing a cyber resilient mindset is the first step towards navigating and thriving in this digital-first world. Cyber resilience is the continuous access to personal and business information, even in an era of unprecedented cyber threats.

This mindset is especially relevant for children, given their ongoing interaction with the online world through existing and emerging social media platforms, gaming sites and learning avenues. As the usage and reliance on technology to educate and entertain increases, so too does the risk of being exposed to threats. That’s why it’s so important for families to develop good cyber resilience habits while engaging online.

Cyber Resilience patch program

To help instill cyber awareness, the Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana (GSGCNWI) and OpenText have collaborated to create a Cyber Resilience patch program to empower the Girl Scouts of today for leadership in a digital world tomorrow. This partnership will help raise awareness of the dangers that exist online and the importance of becoming cyber resilient.

The Cyber Resilience patch program provides Girl Scouts with the opportunity to engage in fun and educational hands-on activities that ignite awareness and create better online behaviors. The aim of the program is to educate Girl Scouts through lessons that focus on simulations of existing and emerging threats, how to safely preserve important files and memories and what to look out for when browsing online.

General tips for children and parents

Staying resilient against ongoing threats means adopting important ways of protecting our personal information.

  • Password integrity: Develop a password that is difficult to predict. Use a password generator, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) as much as possible and don’t reuse passwords from multiple logins. 
  • Back up personal data: Your photos and videos are precious. If you don’t secure them, you may lose them. Backing up your files means having a second copy available if something happens to your laptop, tablet or phone.
  • Invest in security awareness training: Engaging in real-world simulations will help increase your cyber know-how.

Building a better future through cyber resilience

Creating leaders of tomorrow who are empowered and cyber aware begins with establishing cyber resilience today. Families and children should be working towards a better, more agile understanding of the risks to our personal information. Protecting the photos, videos and files that matter to us is important. Keeping our personal identities safe is vital.

OpenText remains committed to not only helping organizations find value in their data but also bolstering female leadership and diversity. The partnership between OpenText and GSGCNWI will help instill the importance of developing cyber safe behaviors now and for the future.

Cyber threats in gaming—and 3 tips for staying safe

The popularity of online gaming surged during the COVID-19 pandemic—and so did cyberattacks against gamers. If you’re the parent of a gamer, or if you’re a gamer yourself, it’s important to learn about the risks.

Why are cyber threats to gamers on the rise?

It might seem strange that cybercriminals are targeting gamers. But there are some good reasons for this trend:

  • The global gaming market is booming—and is expected to reach $219 billion by 2024. Whenever that much money is floating around, bad actors will look for a way to take advantage.
  • The average cost of games is rising, making “cracked” or pirated games more of a temptation. Unfortunately, hackers realize this and use the lure of free games to infect people with malware.
  • A huge economy has developed within the gaming community: People buy and sell in-game objects, character modifications, and even accounts. This provides an incentive for hackers to steal and resell other people’s digital property.
  • Many gamers are unaware of the cybersecurity risks that they face. In addition, many younger people are involved in gaming. This means lots of easy targets for cybercriminals.

Top cyber threats in gaming

There are numerous cyber threats to gamers. But you’ll get the most benefit out of focusing on the following three:

  1. Malware. Malware threats to gamers are spread through malicious websites, exploited system vulnerabilities, or Trojanized copies of pirated games.
  1. Account takeovers. Bad actors are always on the lookout for easy-to-breach gaming accounts. Once stolen, they can resell an account or its contents to interested buyers.
  1. Phishing and social engineering. Gaming is now an online social activity. This gives scammers lots of opportunities to approach unwary gamers and try to trick them into downloading malware, giving up personal details, or handing over login credentials.

Cybersecurity tips for gamers

It’s scary to think that cybercriminals are attacking gamers with greater frequency. But the good news is that taking a few basic precautions can keep you safe:

  1. Protect your accounts. If you have a gaming account with Steam, Epic, or another large gaming platform, take steps to keep it safe just as you would a banking or social media account. Use a strong, unique password for every account that you have. If possible, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your gaming accounts as well.
  1. Avoid pirated games. We get it, games are expensive and times are tough. But hackers love to sneak malware into those “free” copies of popular games. As such, downloading a pirated game simply isn’t worth the risk.
  1. Watch for phishing and social engineering. As the saying goes, if you’re online, you’re a target. The best way to stay safe is to be aware of the threat—and learn how to spot phishing and social engineering attacks when you encounter them.

Following these basic cybersecurity tips will help to make your online gaming experience more secure.

For even more protection, explore Webroot’s SecureAnywhere Internet Security Plus antivirus solution. It will keep your system safe from all types of malware threats—and includes access to LastPass®, a reliable and easy-to-use password management tool.

World Password Day and the importance of password integrity

Passwords have become a common way to access and manage our digital lives. Think of all the accounts you have with different providers. Having a password allows you to securely access your information, pay bills or connect with friends and family on various platforms. However, having a password alone is not enough. Your password for each of your accounts needs to be difficult to guess and unpredictable. Your passwords also need to be managed and protected. With World Password Day around the corner, it’s important to take a moment and reflect on the importance of strengthening our digital hygiene beginning with our passwords.

When it comes generating a password, most of us rely on things that we can remember. A birth date, a pet’s name or our favorite sports team. While these options make it easier for us to recall our passwords, it also makes it far simpler for a cybercriminal to uncover them too. With all of the information we are freely sharing online through our social media platforms, a cybercriminal can easily spend a very small amount of time researching our habits, connections and other elements of our lives to guess potential passwords and gain access to our information. That’s why maintaining password integrity helps protect our online lives and reduces the risk of becoming a victim of identity theft or data loss.

What is password integrity?

Think of the foundation of a building. To prevent the building from collapsing in the future causing serious harm, it needs to be built with certain principles in mind. Password integrity involves the same concept. Passwords are the foundation of our digital lives. If they aren’t secure or properly managed, we run the risk of falling victim to cybercriminals who are eager to access our personal data.

Predicable passwords are problematic for several reasons. If your passwords follow the standard guidelines offered by most sites that require a single capital letter, at least 6 charters, numbers and one special character, hackers can easily make a series of attempts to try and gain access.

Without proper password integrity, personal information and business data may be at risk. The impacts for businesses and consumers are enormous. The average cost of a data breach in 2021 rose to over 4 million dollars, increasing 10% from 2020. For some small to medium-sized (SMBs) businesses, this means incurring a financial hit that could mean closing up shop. For consumers, dealing with identity theft can involve a world of headache. From freezing credit cards and assets to contacting all of the companies you regularly interact with, recovering from identity theft can be difficult and time consuming. 

How to develop password integrity

The best way to prevent unauthorized access to your accounts is to protect and manage them. While avoiding duplication of passwords for multiple accounts and enabling two-way authentication can help, using a password manager is another way to help manage all of your account passwords seamlessly.

Included in Webroot’s SecureAnywhere Internet Security Plus antivirus solution is access to LastPass®, a reliable and secure password management tool. LastPass is the most trusted name in secure password management. It encrypts all username, password and credit card information to help keep you safe online. LastPass gives you access to a password vault to store and access all of your passwords from any device.

Securing your digital life means protecting and managing your information. Having a reliable password management tool can help you effortlessly manage all of your passwords. As World Password Day approaches, take a step back and assess your digital hygiene beginning with your passwords. As cybercriminals develop more sophisticated ways to steal our information or identity, maintaining our own password integrity becomes key.

Discover Webroot’s antivirus solutions and learn more about LastPass.

The Benefits of Using a VPN on Your Home Network

If you’ve considered using a virtual private network (VPN) at all, it’s likely to establish a secure connection while working remotely or to connect to public networks. But privacy enthusiasts appreciate the benefits of a VPN even from the comfort of their own homes. Depending on your level of comfort with your internet service provider (ISP) – and what country you live in – setting one up for your household may be a smart bet.

Before diving into why, here is a brief refresher on what a VPN is and why they’re useful.

The VPN basics

Think of a VPN as a tunnel your internet traffic travels through to keep nosy onlookers from being able to see what you’re doing online. More literally, VPNs are tools used to encrypt network traffic and to hide a user’s IP address by masking it with a proxy one – in this case one belonging to the VPN provider.

A VPN may route your encrypted traffic through a datacenter located anywhere in the world (though it’s best when it’s nearby so the user’s experience doesn’t suffer).

Why would one want to use a VPN?

Typically, they’re used by individuals logging onto public networks as an assurance their activities won’t be monitored. In addition to maintaining privacy, this also prevents cybercriminals from stealing sensitive data from banking transfers, paying bills or conducting other sensitive transactions from places like airports or coffee shops.

Corporations may also mandate the use of VPNs for remote workers so that sensitive company data is more difficult to compromise. To protect against data breaches or other leaks, network administrators typically encourage encrypting traffic using a tool like a VPN.

Check out this post for more on why you should use a VPN on public networks.

Do you need to use a VPN at home?

 It depends on a number of factors.

It depends on where you live and how private you want to keep your web browsing habits. Physical location is a factor because, in the United States, it’s been legal since 2017 for ISPs to sell certain data they’re able to gather unless the customer explicitly opts out. Most major ISPs claim to not sell user data, especially anything that can be used to identify the user, but it’s technically not illegal.

In countries where this practice is prevented by law, users may have fewer privacy concerns regarding their ISP. In the European Union, for example, strict privacy standards laid out in the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) prevent even the gathering of user data by ISPs. This makes the case for a VPN at home harder to make, since most websites already encrypt data in transit and home networks are unlikely to be targeted by things like man-in-the-middle attacks.

For U.S. users, though, using a VPN at home makes good privacy sense. Despite some attempts to learn what major ISPs do with our data, they’re not always forthright with their policies. There are also no guarantees an ISP won’t suddenly change those policies regarding the sale of user data.

If you don’t want to leave the issue up to your ISP, shielding personal data with a VPN is a good choice.

Choose your VPN wisely

If you’re not careful, your VPN can end up doing the same thing you got it to avoid.

“If you’re not paying for it, you are the product,” or so the saying goes. This is especially true for many free VPN services. Free solutions often track and sell your browsing data to advertisers to generate revenue. Be sure to choose a “no-log” solution that doesn’t track your online activity for sale to third-parties.

It’s also important you choose a VPN from a vendor that:

  • Is established enough to have access to servers worldwide
  • Has a professional support team on-staff and available to assist with any issues  
  • Is easy to configure and simple to use, so you actually will!

After checking these boxes, it’s a smart choice to use a VPN at home under some circumstances.

For a proven, reliable solution, consider making Webroot® WiFi Security your VPN of choice on the go and at home.

Season’s cheatings: Online scams against the elderly to watch out for

Each year, as online shopping ramps up in the weeks before the holidays, so do online scams targeting the elderly. This season – in many ways unprecedented – is no different in this regard. In fact, COVID-19, Zoom meetings, vaccination recommendations and travel warnings all provide ample and unique precedent for social engineering attacks.

Not surprisingly, cybercriminals often target those least able to protect themselves. This could be those without antivirus protection, young internet users or, unfortunately, your elderly loved ones. The FBI reported nearly $1 billion in scams targeting the elderly in 2020, with the average victim losing nearly $10,000.

This holiday season, it may be worth talking to elderly relatives about the fact that they can be targeted online. Whether they’re seasoned, vigilant technology users or still learning the ropes of things like text messaging, chat forums, email and online shopping, it won’t hurt to build an understanding of some of the most common elder fraud scams on the internet.

The most common types of online elder fraud

According to the FBI, these are some of the most common online scams targeting the elderly. While a handful of common scams against older citizens are conducted in person, the majority are enabled or made more convincing by the use of technology.

  • Romance scams: Criminals pose as interested romantic partners on social media or dating websites to capitalize on their elderly victims’ desire to find companions.
  • Tech support scams: Criminals pose as technology support representatives and offer to fix non-existent computer issues. The scammers gain remote access to victims’ devices and sensitive information.
  • Grandparent scams: Criminals pose as a relative—usually a child or grandchild—claiming to be in immediate financial need.
  • Government impersonation scams: Criminals pose as government employees and threaten to arrest or prosecute victims unless they agree to provide funds or other payments.
  • Sweepstakes/charity/lottery scams: Criminals claim to work for legitimate charitable organizations to gain victims’ trust. Or they claim their targets have won a foreign lottery or sweepstake, which they can collect for a “fee.”

All of the above are examples of “confidence scams,” or ruses in which a cybercriminal assumes a fake identity to win the trust of their would-be victims. Since they form the basis of phishing attacks, confidence scams are very familiar to those working in the cybersecurity industry.

While romance scams are a mainstay among fraud attempts against the elderly, more timely methods are popular today. AARP lists Zoom phishing emails and COVID-19 vaccination card scams as ones to watch out for now. Phony online shopping websites surge this time of year, and are becoming increasingly believable, according to the group.

Tips for preventing online elder scams

Given that the bulk of elder scams occur online, it’s no surprise that several of the FBI’s top tips for preventing them involve some measure of cyber awareness.

Here are the FBI’s top tips:

  • Recognize scam attempts and end all communication with the perpetrator.
  • Search online for the contact information (name, email, phone number, addresses) and the proposed offer. Other people have likely posted information online about individuals and businesses trying to run scams.
  • Resist the pressure to act quickly. Scammers create a sense of urgency to produce fear and lure victims into immediate action. Call the police immediately if you feel there is a danger to yourself or a loved one.
  • Never give or send any personally identifiable information, money, jewelry, gift cards, checks, or wire information to unverified people or businesses.
  • Make sure all computer anti-virus and security software and malware protections are up to date. Use reputable anti-virus software and firewalls.
  • Disconnect from the internet and shut down your device if you see a pop-up message or locked screen. Pop-ups are regularly used by perpetrators to spread malicious software. Enable pop-up blockers to avoid accidentally clicking on a pop-up.
  • Be careful what you download. Never open an email attachment from someone you don’t know and be wary of email attachments forwarded to you.
  • Take precautions to protect your identity if a criminal gains access to your device or account. Immediately contact your financial institutions to place protections on your accounts. Monitor your accounts and personal information for suspicious activity.

Pressure to act quickly is a hallmark of social engineering scams. It should set off alarm bells and it’s important to let older friends or family members know that. Using the internet as a tool to protect yourself, as recommended by the second bullet, is also a smart play. But more than anything, don’t overlook the importance of helping senior loved ones install an antivirus solution on their home computers. These can limit the damage of any successful scam in important ways.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Protect the seniors in your life from online scams this holiday season. You might just save them significant money and hassle.

We have just the tool to do it, too. Discover our low-maintenance, no-hassle antivirus solutions here.

‘Tis the season for protecting your devices with Webroot antivirus

As the holiday season draws near, shoppers are eagerly searching for gifts online. Unfortunately, this time of year brings as much cybercrime as it does holiday cheer. Especially during the holidays, cybercriminals are eager to exploit and compromise your personal data. Even businesses large and small are not immune to the dark forces at work. Whether you purchase a new device or receive one as a gift, now is the time to consider the importance of protecting it with an antivirus program.

What is antivirus?

Antivirus is a software program that is specifically designed to search, prevent, detect and remove software viruses before they have a chance to wreak havoc on your devices. Antivirus programs accomplish this by conducting behavior-based detection, scans, virus quarantine and removal. Antivirus programs can also protect against other malicious software like trojans, worms, adware and more.

Do I really need antivirus?

In a word, yes. According to our 2021 Webroot BrightCloud Threat Report, on average, 18.8% of consumer PCs in Africa, Asia, the Middle East and South America were infected during 2020.

Antivirus software offers threat protection by securing all of your music files, photo galleries and important documents from being destroyed by malicious programs. Antivirus enables users to be forewarned about dangerous sites in advance. Antivirus programs also scan the Dark Web to determine if your information has been compromised. Comprehensive antivirus protection will also provide password protection for your online accounts through secure encryption.

Benefits of antivirus

By investing in antivirus protection, you’ll be able to maintain control of your online experience and best of all, your peace of mind.

Webroot offers three levels of antivirus protection. Our Basic Protection protects one device. You can rest easy knowing that your device, whether it’s a PC or Mac, will be protected. With lightning-fast scans, this line of defense offers always-on protection to safeguard your identity. Our real-time anti-phishing also blocks bad sites.

Looking to protect more than one device? We’ve got you covered. Our Internet Security Plus with AntiVirus offers all of the same great features as our basic protection but with the added bonus of safeguarding three devices. You’ll also have the ability to secure your smartphones, online passwords and enable custom-built protection if you own a Chromebook. 

For the ultimate all-in-one defense, we offer Internet Security Complete with AntiVirus, which protects five devices. Enjoy all the same features as our Basic and Internet Security Plus with AntiVirus but take advantage of 25G of secure online storage and the ability to eliminate traces of online activity.

Keep the holidays merry and bright

Safeguard all of your new and old devices with Webroot. Bad actors will always be hard at work trying to steal your personal information. Protect yourself and your loved ones by investing in antivirus protection.

Webroot offers complete protection from viruses and identity theft without slowing you down while you browse or shop online.

Experience our award-winning security for yourself.

To learn more about how Webroot can protect you, please visit https://www.webroot.com/us/en