Security for netbook?

debitcardmayhem

RussJK wrote: »

It's just the way they've worded it, to make you think you need it.

The free Avast is almost the same as the paid suite, except the paid suite has some additional 'identity protection' and 'online banking' additions (and an unnecessary firewall).

As long as you don't get infected, you never need this kind of stuff. Avast free will give you just as much protection against infection as the full suite IMO.

If you do get infected, most paid suites' (including Avast's) banking protection isn't worth much anyway.

The 'Malware Research Group' just published their report which demonstrates this in fact:
http://malwareresearchgroup.com/
(http://malwareresearchgroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/Banking-Report-2011-Final-WM.zip)

I haven't been over it closely yet.

MRG are a group that gets criticised on methodology with some of their tests, and also for their background as the main person behind it was allegedly involved in 'WareZ' (software piracy) at one point. Also they don't always provide the MD5 hash for files, which means vendors can't verify results.

In this case they do seem to have highlighted a big issue with the full antivirus suites protection of online banking. The report suggests you'd need a 3rd party application to protect online banking.

The alternative suggested by Debitcardmayhem to use a Ubuntu LiveCD for online banking is a good one, provided the router isn't compromised. This saves you using something horrible and slow like Trusteer Rapport the rest of the time when you aren't internet banking.

My bank also is pushing Rapport, all be it gently (ie it is there and free but not yet compulsory..time to move bank if they do). Sadly if people click before they drink then they think .... I suggest a live USB Russ because the OP has a netbook ...but thanks for the recommendation

RussJK

debitcardmayhem wrote: »

I suggest a live USB Russ because the OP has a netbook

Doh, meant Live USB

knightstyle

Wow, thanks for all the info all of you. I think I will go for Avast free and Malwarebytes as suggested by closed. Netbook arrives Thursday so will try to get to grips with Windows 7 and Microsoft office!