Day 12

AntiVirus and AntiMalware Software Apps

DAY 12: AntiVirus and AntiMalware Software Apps

You’ve got your passwords locked down, your devices secured, and your online accounts protected. But today - we’re diving into something a little less fun, but just as crucial: antivirus and malware protection.

What’s up, S’mores! I’m Shannon Morse, and welcome to Day 12 of my 30-Day Security Challenge - a month-long series designed to help you take control of your privacy and security, one step at a time. Every day, we’re breaking down one concept of online security and privacy to make the process less stressful, and to keep you from burning out.

In 2025, malware is still very much alive, and it’s sneaky. Even if you think you're careful, threats can sneak in through emails, downloads, or apps. We’ll talk about how to keep your systems clean, protect your personal data, and avoid potential headaches.

If you’re following along, make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss the next video. You can grab the full 30-Day Challenge checklist and notes over at ShannonRMorse.com.

What’s the Deal with Malware?

Malware is just a broad term for malicious software that’s designed to harm your devices or steal your data.

It can be anything from a virus that replicates and spreads itself, to ransomware that locks up your files, or even spyware that collects your private information without you knowing.

So how do we keep this stuff from wreaking havoc on our devices?

Simple: proactive protection. And in 2025, that means using the right tools and practices to prevent attacks before they even have a chance.

Before you jump into the comments to tell me that my recommendations are wrong - which is totally fine, calm constructive comments are welcome here, please do stick around for Step 5 in this video, where I detail some of the security hygiene practices that are crucial when it comes to protecting your devices.

Step 1: Does My Device Need Antivirus?

First, let’s clear the air: do you still need antivirus software nowadays? It depends on what you're using and how cautious you are.

I want to focus on Windows here, because this is the most common culprit when it comes to attacks:

In the past, antivirus was a must for most Windows users - and guess what? It still is. Microsoft Windows Defender (now better than ever) is a solid option. In fact, it’s built into Windows 10 and 11, and it now competes with third-party solutions in both detection and performance.

Windows Defender is super easy to use, doesn’t slow down your system, and is updated regularly.

To enable it, just head to Start → Settings → Update & Security → Windows Security and turn on protection.

For extra coverage, third-party options are great, but Windows Defender does the job for most users. In general, I don’t think you need to pay for Antivirus protection, unless you want additional tools that come with some of those third party apps.

Step 2: What About Macs?

Mac users have long been told they don't need antivirus because of the strong security in macOS (thanks to its UNIX-based architecture).

But spoiler alert: That myth has long been debunked. While Mac malware (and Linux too) isn't as widespread as Windows-based threats, it’s still real, and it can be just as damaging.

Third party antivirus for Macs exist and usually offer extra tools and features. Like real-time protection, ransomware defense, and regular updates - keeping your device secure without slowing it down.

If you’re on macOS Big Sur or newer, Apple’s built-in XProtect and Gatekeeper help protect you from the worst, but having an extra layer never hurts.

Step 3: Anti-Malware for Android & iOS

Android:

Android is great when it comes to security BUT, there’s a caveat here. There are a ton of apps out there that could potentially harm your phone.

For Android, Google Play Protect is built in, and it scans apps for potential malware. Still, there’s no reason not to install something like Malwarebytes to go the extra mile. As long as you aren’t clicking on shady apps or links, downloading weird apps outside of the Google Play Store, or running strange code on your phone, you generally should be find. But malicious apps have found their way onto the Google Play Store, so sometimes having that extra layer of defense can absolutely be a good thing.

When downloading apps, only stick to Google Play and always check app permissions. If an app asks for access to things it doesn’t need (like a photo app requesting your contacts), do not install it. If you must install an app (like you need it to control a smarthome device), then check the permissions and only accept the bare minimum.

iPhones:

On the iPhone side, Apple’s sandboxing of apps helps keep the OS relatively secure. You don’t need antivirus software. Just make sure to keep your software up to date and use strong app permissions to stay safe.

If you’re finding this video helpful, a subscribe would me a lot to me. Subscribing is a simple and free way to support creators on youtube!

So if you’re following along with the challenge, hit that subscribe button and turn on notifications so you don’t miss tomorrow’s video. You can grab the full checklist and daily recap at ShannonRMorse.com.

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As usual, all the videos on my channel are free to watch, and I thank my youtube members and patrons for making that possible.

Step 4: Malwarebytes, Avast, or...

Who do I recommend? Well, there are a ton of third party tools on the market. Some of them offer software packages that are way too bulky and slow down your computer. Others aren’t quick enough to detect newer attacks and threats.

Whenever I’m working on a family members PC, I recommend MalwareBytes.

Let’s get back to the tools. Even though Windows Defender is great, I’m still a huge fan of Malwarebytes for a deep dive scan when you think something’s off. Malwarebytes offers both free and premium versions, but the premium one adds real-time protection. It's a lifesaver if you’re concerned about zero-day malware or need to scrub up after a security breach.

For Android and Mac, Avast and BitDefender also offer solid protection, with the added bonus of VPN options to make sure your browsing is secure.

I am not sponsored by any of these brands, by the way. They’re ones I’ve used throughout the years and have found them to do what they say they’ll do.

Step 5: Take Action to Keep Malware Out

If you’re planning to go with just the integrated options, you also need to make sure you’re taking some precautions online. Because security requires a holistic approach, or a layered defense. It’s not a one-and-done fix, security requires a lifestyle.

✅ Update your software regularly. Make sure both macOS and Windows updates are turned on.

✅ Download from trusted sources only (Google Play Store for Android, App Store for iOS).

✅ Don’t scan random QR codes.

✅ Enable firewalls on your computer and make sure your router has one too (most modern routers do).

✅ Avoid suspicious emails and links - phishing is a top threat in 2025, and it’s getting harder to spot. If in doubt, don’t click.

And a note about smarthome devices: These can also be targeted in attacks, specifically things like botnets. Since you can’t really install antivirus on a babycam, make sure you keep that app and firmware updated, change passwords, and limit access to the networks that need that access.

2025 Update: AI-Powered Malware Detection

The latest wave in cybersecurity is AI-powered malware detection. Advanced malware scanners are now using machine learning to catch unknown threats in real-time, which is awesome because this catches what the traditional “signature-based” antivirus programs might miss.

If you plan to purchase AV software, look for descriptions such as AI-powered scanning that keeps an eye on your apps and connections - this will analyze unusual behavior to catch malware before it becomes an issue.

And that’s a wrap for Day 12! You’ve now got the tools and knowledge to protect your devices from malware - whether it’s an app, virus, or ransomware.

Tomorrow for Day 13, we’re talking smartphone security.

If you found this video helpful, give it a thumbs-up, subscribe, and hit the bell so you don’t miss tomorrow’s challenge.

Grab your free checklist at ShannonMorse.com/. Bye yall!

Important Links:

https://www.avast.com/free-antivirus-download

https://www.malwarebytes.com/premium/

https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/windows-defender

https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/wdsi/products/scanner

https://www.bitdefender.com/solutions/antivirus-for-mac.html