Is Antivirus and Security Software Still Necessary? Short Answer: Yes!

Updated on January 15, 2022

It only takes a few minutes for your data to end up in the wrong hands. And rest assured, people are waiting for you to slip up.

According to the FBI, criminals are profiting more thanks to stealing data and ransomware. In 2019, cybercrime profits reached $3.5 billion, with no sign of slowing down.

To stay safe, you’ll need to make sure you’re using antivirus and security software. Keep reading to find out why this essential software is so crucial to your safety.

Cybercrime Has Evolved

In the olden days, you could spot a cybercrime a mile away. You’d get a random email from a Nigerian prince promising untold riches if you send him money, or you’d click on the wrong pop-up ad.

It’s easy to laugh about these schemes, but the truth is, they’re still out there in new forms. And the people running them now expect you to be tech-savvy.

The recent outbreak of Apple phishing schemes is a perfect example. Criminals would replicate customer service emails from Apple, spoof their email address, and wait for you to click on their link.

Things got so out of control that Apple had to step up and warn its customers.

The fact of the matter is that cybercrime can hit anyone, regardless of your tech knowledge.

Public Wifi Is Everywhere

Few things are more relaxing than sitting at your favorite coffee shop and getting some work done.

While it’s a wonderful way to work, and it’s great that more public gathering spaces offer WiFi, these public networks are almost always unsecured.

Without security or antivirus software, you’re exposing your computer to everyone else in the area. It only takes one bad actor and one unprotected computer to spark a cybercrime.

Antivirus and Security Software Protects More Than Your Computer

Thanks to smartphones and tablets, we can access any information, anywhere, at any time. As exciting as that is, more tech means more risks if you’re not using the right software.

Fortunately, most commercial antivirus software now comes with the added benefit of smartphone and tablet security, so you can stay safe wherever you are.

The Right Software Could Save Your Business

So, let’s say a data breach does hit your company. Things are about to go from bad to worse, as data breaches can open your company to a myriad of lawsuits.

Within the last few years alone, we’ve seen several class-action lawsuits resulting from data breaches. And these weren’t small companies. We’re talking about giants like Target, Equifax, and Yahoo.

Your best bet is to hire an IT firm for your business, like Be Structured, who not only protects your business around the clock but trains your employees to spot potential phishing schemes.

Stay Safe, Stay Smart: Protect Your Identity Online

Let’s ask again, do you need antivirus and security software in this day and age? Yes, yes, yes!

Criminals are smarter, technology is more prevalent, and we now carry small computers in our pockets at all times.

Stay safe and invest in antivirus software. And if you’d like more info on how to keep your business safe, be sure to check back with our blog!

The Editorial Team at Healthcare Business Today is made up of skilled healthcare writers and experts, led by our managing editor, Daniel Casciato, who has over 25 years of experience in healthcare writing. Since 1998, we have produced compelling and informative content for numerous publications, establishing ourselves as a trusted resource for health and wellness information. We offer readers access to fresh health, medicine, science, and technology developments and the latest in patient news, emphasizing how these developments affect our lives.