Free anti-virus software helps consumers bypass rogue AV vendors

PC Tools announced it is offering its highly regarded AntiVirus Internet security software free to consumers. “We know many consumers are being misled by rogue security companies providing bogus virus threat solutions. Consumers are misled into downloading these dubious products only to find they have loaded new viruses and spyware into their computers,” said Michael Greene, Vice President for Product Strategy.

The free version provides:

” OnGuard Protection that provides real time shields against viruses.
” Smart Updates to keep virus definitions and other feature enhancements up to date.
” Virus Quarantines and restores items that have been detected.
” Logging of File Scans conducted by PC Tools AntiVirus
” Enhanced architecture offering scanning and virus removal capability of the entire operating system by users with “limited permission” accounts.

The product was awarded numerous awards including PC Magazine Best Anti-Spyware 2005, Editor’s Choice 2006; Windows XP Magazine, Editor’s Choice and PC Pro Recommended 2006.