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In reply to the discussion: McAfee All Access came with my LG laptop, it expires soon, is Windows Defender enough? [View all]Nictuku
(4,351 posts)4. I would not want to only depend on Windows Defender
There are some free anti-virus programs available. One that comes to mind is AVG.
https://www.avg.com/en-us/free-antivirus-download#pc
I use Symantec anti-virus, which is not free, but my work allows me to use it on my personal computer because I connect to their network and so they provide it to the employees for free.
Before you install any other anti-virus program, you should first uninstall the McAfee.
https://proprivacy.com/privacy-service/guides/uninstall-mcafee-antivirus-software
Good luck! (and always be conscious of things you are clicking on) If you ever get a pop up saying your computer is compromised or has a virus, and there is a phone number to call DO NOT CALL. Shut your computer down and reboot, it should go away (unless you go back to the website where the popup originated).
Microsoft will never have a support number for you to call if you have a virus, that specifically is a scam. They might get you to allow them to connect to your computer, have you log into your bank, order some kind of security from you, then later come back and offer to refund the money (faking a refund with your online banking, returning too much money, then asking you for gift cards to pay them back) It is a nightmare. They particularly victimize older people.
When in doubt, don't click on it.
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McAfee All Access came with my LG laptop, it expires soon, is Windows Defender enough? [View all]
Eliot Rosewater
Aug 2021
OP
For basic anti-malware protection, Windows Defender is as good as many paid AV products,
Eugene
Aug 2021
#2
Thanks, I knew some of this but good reminder. I also have MB the paid version.
Eliot Rosewater
Aug 2021
#10
Windows Defender is adequate for your needs, despite what some others might say.
Earth-shine
Aug 2021
#14
I dont know how to reinstall Windows so if my OS is damaged removing McAfee I will
Eliot Rosewater
Aug 2021
#15
Yes. Uninstalling security software can result in damaged Windows files ...
Earth-shine
Aug 2021
#17
Thanks, I will PM You when I decide to do it and I will use my phone to talk to you on DU while
Eliot Rosewater
Aug 2021
#18
That's the way most software is uninstalled. But, it doesn't always work with anti-virus.
Earth-shine
Aug 2021
#22
Part or all of Windows defender is currently off on mine due to mcafee, once I remove mcafee
Eliot Rosewater
Aug 2021
#26
It's a version of Windows 10. I've never removed antivirus from 10, but I think it should go well.
Earth-shine
Aug 2021
#36
Stop getting all this advice, especially from that guy below ... and me ,too.
Earth-shine
Aug 2021
#38
I only use defender, because I decided years ago the so called protectors were busy scraping data
ShazamIam
Aug 2021
#19
I am hoping I dont have to reinstall Windows because I removed mcafee...
Eliot Rosewater
Aug 2021
#25
Thanks, per above response I have not tried yet, scared that something will go wrong.
Eliot Rosewater
Aug 2021
#29
Thanks, no questions yet. But thanks, really. I am nervous so maybe i will wait till tomorrow
Eliot Rosewater
Aug 2021
#32