Why Anti-Malware Isn’t Foolproof
By Leo Notenboom
Leo discusses the reasons why anti-malware tools don’t always work.–PC Pitstop.
I’ve been an independent computer repair tech for over 12 years now. The question I get the most (and have the hardest time answering) is this: how come my antivirus program didn’t stop me from getting this virus? When you’re installing AVG, the program says that only 3% of today’s security problems are caused by traditional viruses. Is this true? Is it true for the other antivirus programs as well? And why is it that, when we do get one of these non-traditional security issues (i.e. malware), we then must rely on free software downloaded from the internet? Why don’t the ‘traditional’ antivirus suppliers include a malware remover module with their software? If traditional antivirus programs are going to be satisfied with being the canary in the coal mine (we know we’re infected when our antivirus program dies), why not just download a free product, use our common sense on the internet and hope for the best?
In other words, why don’t anti-malware tools work better than they seem to? 🙂
I have to fault AVG for the phrase “traditional viruses”. I think that puts an unrealistic spin on your expectations. Malware is malware, and that includes viruses, spyware, rootkits, zombies, and gosh knows what else.
What’s “traditional”? Ya got me. I also have no idea where that 3% figure comes from.
But there’s a kernel of truth in AVG’s statement. No matter what program you run, there’s still a chance your computer will get infected.
Different Tools, Different Jobs – Article Continued Here
This excerpt appears with permission from Leo Notenboom.
