Protection against cyber threats

Cybersecurity tools for desktops, laptops, smartphones and tablets

Cybersecurity tools differ based on the device type because each platform has unique vulnerabilities and security needs.

  • Key Differences :
    1. Mobility: Mobile devices require lightweight security solutions that don’t drain battery life.
    2. Operating System: Mobile OS (Android, iOS) has different security architectures compared to Windows/macOS.
    3. Threat Landscape: Mobile devices face more social engineering attacks, while desktops/laptops face more malware-based threats.

Desktops & Laptops

  • Comprehensive security suites (antivirus, firewall, VPN) are widely available.
  • Typically have stronger endpoint security due to more advanced software.
  • Vulnerable to phishing, ransomware, and system exploits.
  • Security tools often include full system scans, malware removal, and network security.

Smartphones & Tablets

  • Focus more on mobile-specific threats like malicious apps, SMS phishing, and insecure Wi-Fi.
  • Security tools include app permission managers, anti-theft features, and mobile VPNs.
  • Vulnerable to SIM-swapping, fake apps, and location tracking.
  • Often rely on sandboxing and app store security for protection.

Personal cybersecurity tools for smartphones and tablets:

These tools provide essential protection against cyber threats without requiring a paid subscription.

  • Malwarebytes Mobile Security – A trusted tool for detecting and removing malware on mobile devices.
  • Bitdefender Mobile Security (Free Version) – Offers real-time protection and anti-phishing features.
  • Avast Mobile Security – A free antivirus with strong malware detection and privacy protection.
  • Proton VPN (Free) – A reliable VPN service that enhances online privacy.
  • Signal – A secure messaging app with end-to-end encryption.
  • Authy – A two-factor authentication tool for securing accounts.
  • Privacy Badger – A browser extension that blocks trackers and enhances online privacy.
  • ZoneAlarm Free Firewall – A robust firewall for monitoring and securing network traffic.

Personal cybersecurity tools for desktops and laptops :

These tools provide essential protection against cyber threats without requiring a paid subscription.

  • TotalAV Free Antivirus – Offers excellent malware detection and system tune-up tools.
  • Bitdefender Free Antivirus – Provides real-time protection and high-end web security.
  • Avast Free Antivirus – A trusted antivirus with strong malware detection.
  • Surfshark Antivirus (Free Trial) – Comes bundled with a VPN for enhanced security.
  • ZoneAlarm Free Firewall – A robust firewall for monitoring and securing network traffic.
  • Malwarebytes Free – A reliable tool for detecting and removing malware.
  • Bitwarden (Free) – A secure password manager to protect your credentials.
  • Proton VPN (Free) – A privacy-focused VPN service.
  • Privacy Badger – A browser extension that blocks trackers and enhances online privacy.
  • Authy – A two-factor authentication tool for securing accounts.

Other cybersecurity tools:

These tools provide essential protection against cyber threats without requiring a paid subscription.

  • Avast Free Antivirus – A powerful antivirus with real-time threat detection and web protection.
  • Bitwarden (Free) – A secure password manager that helps protect your credentials.
  • Proton VPN (Free) – A reliable VPN service that enhances online privacy.
  • ZoneAlarm Free Firewall – A robust firewall for monitoring and securing network traffic.
  • Malwarebytes Free – A trusted tool for detecting and removing malware.
  • Privacy Badger – A browser extension that blocks trackers and enhances online privacy.
  • Signal – A secure messaging app with end-to-end encryption.
  • Authy – A two-factor authentication tool for securing accounts.

Some of the most performant free network proxies in 2025:

These proxies help mask your IP address, enhance privacy, and bypass geo-restrictions.

  • Hide.me – Known for its strong security features and speed, offering encrypted connections and a no-log policy.

  • KProxy – A reliable proxy with browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox, allowing access to blocked websites.

  • Hidester – Provides customizable security settings and SSL encryption with no bandwidth limits.

  • Smartproxy – Offers a free trial with robust security practices and detailed targeting capabilities.

  • Oxylabs – A high-performance provider with free datacenter proxies and a 99.9% uptime.

  • Webshare – One of the best free proxy providers in 2025, offering stable connections.

  • ProxyScrape – A generous free provider with multiple proxy types.

  • IPRoyal – A hassle-free proxy service with accessible free options.

Percentage available for the most hacked smartphones relative to the total number in service.

Cybersecurity reports indicate that Android devices tend to be more frequently targeted than iPhones, primarily due to their open ecosystem and the ability to install apps from third-party sources.

Some key factors influencing smartphone hacking rates:

  • Market share: The more popular a device, the more attractive it is to hackers.

  • Security updates: Older models with outdated software are more vulnerable.

  • App ecosystem: Android allows sideloading apps, increasing exposure to malicious software.

  • User behavior: Phishing attacks and weak passwords contribute to security breaches.

Smartphones from major brands like Apple (iPhone) and Samsung are often targeted by hackers due to their widespread use and the valuable data they store.

For example, iPhones have been exploited using advanced techniques like « zero-click » attacks, where malicious software installs itself without user interaction. Similarly, Android devices from brands like Huawei, Sony, and LG have faced vulnerabilities through SMS-based attacks.

Hackers tend to focus on devices with large user bases or those used by high-profile individuals. Regular updates and security measures are crucial to minimize risks.