Technology
In 2021, Antivirus software was introduced to its Surfshark One bundle. [1] [2] Surfshark Antivirus offers real-time protection to users by scanning and identifying potential threats on devices. [3] It integrates with Surfshark's other security products, including its VPN services. The antivirus is available for multiple platforms, including Windows 10 and later systems, macOS versions starting with Big Sur 11 and onwards, and Android devices running OS 10 or later. [4] [5]
It offers real-time protection, monitoring systems around the clock to guard against malware, while operating in the background. [6] Surfshark Antivirus also uses heuristic detection that scans files and process' for suspicious-looking bits of code. [7] [8] In December 2022, Surfshark added webcam protection to its antivirus tool to control exactly which apps are allowed to use the webcam. [9]
Features
Scanning
Scanning is a feature that scans all files stored on the device, including system and application files, including those the user can’t see. When malware is detected, the user is presented with a list of potentially harmful files and can select which one they want to delete. [13]
The antivirus application automatically copies each infected file to the quarantine folder for backup. If the backup process is unsuccessful, the file is renamed by changing the extension to “.infected.” Available on Windows, macOS, and Android. [14]
Scheduling
Scheduling is a feature that lets users choose the date and time of their device scans. Windows and macOS users can schedule both Quick scans and Full scans. Available on Windows, macOS, and Android. [15]
Quarantine
Quarantine is a feature that automatically isolates potentially harmful files found after a scan or real-time detection so they aren’t executable. Users can delete or restore the files and add them to the exclusion list. Available on Windows, and macOS. [16]
Exclusions
Exclusions is a feature that allows users to choose which files and folders aren’t going to be scanned. Available on Windows, and macOS. [17]
Webcam protection
Webcam protection is a feature will stop untrusted apps from accessing your webcam. The user is informed when an untrusted app tries to access the camera. Available on Windows and macOS. [18]
Ransomware shield
Ransomware shield is a feature that provides added security to specified files and folders. The user selects which apps have permission to access their files. When an app that doesn’t have permission is accessing the files in the protected folder, the action is blocked, and the user is asked to allow access or to block it. Available on macOS. [19]
Surfshark Cloud Protect
Surfshark Cloud Protect is a feature that scans unknown files on the cloud for zero-day threats. The feature is based on a machine learning system where unknown file hashes are sent to a remote cloud server that quickly analyzes if the file is malicious. [20]
If the file is found to be dangerous, then all Surfshark user’s apps are updated, so this new threat is quarantined. Available on Windows, macOS, and Android.
Reviews
In February 2023, Surfshark Antivirus was certified as an efficient antivirus by the antivirus testing establishment AV-TEST, an independent antivirus evaluation organization. [26]
Computer Bild, a German computer magazine, reviewed Surfshark Antivirus, highlighting its comprehensive protection against viruses and malware, user-friendly interface, and its inclusion in the Surfshark One package, which also offers VPN services, private search functionality, and alert services for enhanced online security. [27]
TechRadar, in its review, noted that it effectively protects devices from malware and viruses on Android and Windows with real-time protection and flexible scanning options. [28]
PC Mag, a British computer media, reviewed Surfshark Antivirus, noting its significant improvements in malware protection, but also pointing out the need for further refinement in its antivirus capabilities. [29]
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