


The ability to anticipate never-before-seen threats gives anti-malware software an edge over regular antivirus software. In addition to checking files and programs against a database, the software analyses it for threatening behaviors.

However, anti-malware is able to protect against many unknown threats using a system of heuristics. This database needs to be updated regularly so that it can detect new threats – most update automatically.

Anti-malware software scans your computer’s files, the webpages you visit and the media you download to keep your browsing experience as safe as possible. The effects of malware can range from a nuisance, like sending SPAM messages using your e-mail account, to a full-blown disaster, like the corruption of important files, identity theft and even loss of data. Malware can wiggle its way into your system through e-mail attachments, websites, downloads of pirated music and movies, IM message attachments, and dozens of other ways. As attacks from cyber criminals become more advanced, so does anti-malware technology. This includes viruses, worms, rootkits, ransomware, Trojan horses, and anything else that’s purpose is to wreak havoc on your machine. This doesn’t include regular hiccups and malfunctions that may slow your computer down but don’t intend harm.Īnti-malware software acts to protect against and remove malicious content from individual computers and IT systems. “ Malware” is a combination of the words “malice” and “software” – any program on a computer that intends to cause harm or prevent the user from doing what they want to do is considered “malicious software”. What is Anti-Malware Software and What Does It Do?
