10 Best Anti-Spyware Software in 2024 – Expert-Vetted Reviews
Did you know that spyware costs the US economy billions of dollars every year? Spyware is malicious software that allows 3rd parties to get access to your device and using this access hackers can steal your identity, login into your bank account, and cause all sorts of damage.
In this article, we are going to show you the very best anti-spyware solutions that will keep your devices secure and the hackers out!
🥇 McAfee Total Protection – our top anti-spyware software. Reliable, fast, and feature-packed. Unlimited VPN. Real-Time Scanner. Threat Identifier. File Encryption. Identity Protection.
🥈 Norton 360 – second-best anti-spyware solution. Reliable & popular. Free demo. VPN. Firewall. File Encryption. Dark Web Monitoring. Real-Time Scanning.
🥉 BitDefender Total Security – great contender and jam-packed with cool features. It comes with a VPN, Firewall, Military-grade, Real-Time Scanner, Webcam Protection, and File Shredder.
McAfee Total Protection – The Best Anti-Spyware Software
McAfee is a pioneer in the software security industry and has been producing world-class solutions since the 1980s! McAfee’s latest product, Total Protection is an all-inclusive anti-virus and anti-spyware software that is capable of identifying and eliminating threats in real-time.
McAfee Total Protection is available on all devices including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOs, and is jam-packed full of amazing features. If you are looking for an easy-to-use, fairly priced anti-spyware software that has identity protection, a top performer scanner, VPN, and more, then you can’t go wrong with McAfee Total Protection.
Top Features
- Unlimited VPN – Have no fear when connecting to public networks thanks to McAfee’s comprehensive VPN.
- Identity Protection – Be alerted in real-time if somebody is attempting to steal an identity.
- Threat Identifier and Remover – You never have to worry about accidentally clicking on a nefarious link or downloading a shady file because McAfee Total Protection will alert you in real time and remove any spyware instantly!
- File Encryption – Even if an intruder does manage to access your device they still won’t be able to see your files thanks to McAfee’s encryption capabilities.
You can access McAfee Total Protection free for 30 days as part of a trial. You do not have to enter any payment details to access the free trial and can connect up to 10 devices.
After your trial is completed you have a choice of a variety of different paid packages to suit your needs which include:
- Basic (1 device) – $34.99 for a 1-year subscription
- Plus (5 devices) – $39.99 for a 1-year subscription
- Premium (10 devices) $49.99 for a 1-year subscription
- Unlimited (unlimited devices) – $69.99 for a 1-year subscription
Pros
- Works on all devices (Windows, Mac, Android, iOs)
- Unlimited VPN
- Below average price
- Ability to encrypt and store files
- Fast and simple to install and start using (no tech skills required!)
Cons
- Some features are limited
- The interface could use an upgrade
- Parental control is limited
Norton 360 – Amazing Spyware Protection
Norton is synonymous with producing leading security solutions and its 360 software is no different. With Norton 360 you can quickly scan your device for nefarious software and remove even the most hidden spyware!
Norton 360 can be used on iOS, Android, Mac, and Windows, and with a single subscription, you can run the software on multiple devices. We recommend Norton 360 to users who are looking for total protection at a reasonable price and require extensive features such as a VPN, dark web monitoring, real-time scanning, and an amazing firewall.
Top Features
- Real-time malware scanner – Norton will alert you before you access any file and will be able to instantly delete it if you accidentally download something shady.
- Firewall – Never suffer a network intrusion thanks to Norton’s customizable firewall.
- Dark web monitoring – Search the corners of the internet to find out if anyone has accessed your personal details such as credit cards.
- VPN – Keep your internet activity encrypted and away from the prying eyes of potential hackers!
Norton 360 offers a 7-day free trial but the software can only be used on 1 device. Also when signing up for the free trial you must enter your payment details and you will be automatically billed if you do not cancel before your trial concludes.
Norton has all kinds of different packages to suit every budget including the following:
- Norton 360 Standard (1 device, 10GB) – $84.99 for a 1-year subscription
- Norton 360 Deluxe (5 devices, 50GB) – $104.99 for a 1-year subscription
- Norton 360 Premium (10 devices, 100GB) – $124.99 for a 1-year subscription
Pros
- Works on all devices (Windows, Mac, Android, iOs)
- Very fast full scan (under 30 minutes!)
- 60-day money-back guarantee
- Highly effective firewall
- Unlimited VPN
- 100% malware detection!
Cons
- Not as simple to the user as other anti-spyware software
- No cloud backup for Mac
- No Parental control for Mac
Bitdefender Total Security – Great Malware Protection Option
Bitdefender has been protecting millions of devices from around the world since 2001! Bitdefender’s Total Security solution keeps your device safe from spyware while at the same gives you the freedom to explore the internet without compromising speed.
You can use Bitdefender’s Total Security on every device imaginable and it runs perfectly on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOs. This software is ideal for all users from beginners to seasoned techies who are looking for complete protection and access to world-class features including extensive ransomware blockers, anti-tracking, webcam protection, file shredding, and more!
Top Features
- VPN – Effortlessly encrypt all of your internet traffic so you can browse securely.
- File shredder – This feature ensures that deleted files can never be recovered even by the most creative hacker!
- Safe online banking – With this feature a new window opens and your details can be automatically filled so even if spyware is active nobody will be able to see your payment information.
- Privacy firewall – Instantly prevent any outside threats from accessing your device via not secure networks.
- Webcam protection – Always be altered when a 3rd party tries to access your webcam and block them with a click of a button.
Bitdefender offers a 30-day free trial where you can trial every feature and do not have to enter your credit card details. The free trial is available on all platforms including desktop and mobile.
At the end of your free trial you can continue using Bitdefender by purchasing one of the following packages:
- 5 devices – $44.99 for a 1-year subscription
- 10 devices – $49.99 for a 1-year subscription
- 5 devices – $112.49 for a 2-year subscription
- 10 devices – $127.49 for a 2-year subscription
- 5 devices – $149.99 for a 3-year subscription
- 10 devices – $172.49 for a 3-year subscription
Pros
- Available on every platform (Windows, Mac, Android, iOs)
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- High-performing real-time protection
- Well-designed interface
- Awesome password manager
Cons
- No unlimited device plan
- You need to upgrade to access unlimited VPN
- No file encryption feature
Avast is a Czech firm and continues to be one of the top anti-virus and anti-spyware software developers in the world due to its high-quality solutions. With their leading program, Avast Premium Security you get comprehensive software that provides superior protection at a bargain price.
While Avast Premium Security is available on all devices it is best suited for Mac, Android, and Windows as the iOS version is lacking some features. Avast Premium Security is a great option if you are looking for a fantastic price-to-quality ratio and still need some high-powered features including smart scans, ransomware shield, site blocker, webcam protection, and more!
Top Features
- Smart scans – You can run a smart scan in just a few minutes and quickly identify any spyware or shady add-ons.
- Site blocker – Avast will automatically scan download files and block suspicious links.
- Ransomware shield– This shield encrypts sensitive files so hackers can’t access your personal information even if they do access your device.
- Webcam protection – You won’t ever have to worry about hackers accessing your webcam as Avast will notify you of any intruders and block them.
Avast offers a 30-day free trial for the Windows version where you don’t have to enter payment details. And a 60-day free trial for the Mac version but you have to type in your credit card information.
Avast has two packages that you can take advantage of based on the number of devices you need to protect. Check them out below:
- 1 device – $39.99 for a 1-year subscription
- 10 devices – $49.99 for a 1-year subscription
Pros
- Simple and easy-to-use interface
- Below average price!
- 60-day money-back guarantee
- Great ransomware shield
- Strong firewall
Cons
- Some features require an extra fee
- Limited functionality for iOS
- No Parental control for Mac
Malwarebytes Premium is more than just an anti-malware software it is an all-inclusive program that will keep you safe no matter what you are doing on your mobile or desktop. Malwarebytes Premium has performed exceptionally well in a number of malware, phishing, and malicious URL detection tests and utilizes state-of-the-art behavior adaptation to give you five-star security.
This software is available for iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac so no matter what type of device you have you can enjoy 100% protection. We recommend Malwarebytes Premium if you are looking for a fairly priced software that outperforms many of its competitors based on threat detection.
Top Features
- Malware protection – Malwarebytes has 100% malware detection!
- URL blocker – Never download a shady file or open a nefarious link again!
- Behavior-based adaptation – Malwarebytes learns from your previous activity and adjusts your security accordingly.
Malwarebytes provides a 14-day free trial and a 60-day money-back guarantee period. You do not have to share your payment details when accessing the trial and can use it on any device.
Malwarebytes offers the following two packages based on the number of devices you need to protect:
- 1 device – $39.99 for a 1-year subscription
- 5 devices – $79.99 for a 1-year subscription
Pros
- Fast full scan
- Superior malware-blocking results
- High-level ransomware protection
- Suspicious site blocking
- Behavior-based protection
Cons
- No VPN
- No firewall
AVG Antivirus – Quick Spyware Detector
AVG is a well-respected creator of security and anti-spyware software and is owned by another industry giant, Avast. AVG Ultimate is the company’s premier security solution and gives you access to a world-class VPN, tune-up services, firewall, ransomware protection, and more!
AVG has proved incredibly popular with millions of users around the world due to its near 100% detection rates, well-designed interface, and loaded features. If you want first-rate protection that won’t break the bank, then try AVG Ultimate now!
Top Features
- Ransomware protection – AVG regularly scans for threats while also encrypting your sensitive files into a special folder.
- Email scanner – Never fall for an email scan again as AVG will warn you before you open any attachments or click any links.
- Antivirus scanner – AVG’s scanner is always running in the background and neutralizing threats as they appear in real time.
AVG offers a month-long free trial where you can fully test the software and you do not have to share your payment details. Alternatively, you can download the limited but still effective free version.
To access AVG Ultimate right now you can purchase the following package:
- 10 devices – $79.99 for a 1-year subscription
Pros
- Great interface
- Performed great in malware and phishing detection tests
- Awesome VPN
- Effective at removing even the most resistant spyware
- Below average price!
Cons
- Scan times are a little slow
- Customer support is not always responsive
Panda Free Antivirus – Great Free Anti-Spyware Tool
Panda Security has been developing anti-spyware solutions since the 90s and has built a strong reputation based on the quality of its software. With Panda Free Antivirus you get a 100% complimentary anti-virus and VPN!
If you are just looking for just basic protection and don’t have extra cash to afford extensive anti-spyware software then Panda Free Antivirus is perfect. However, if you need some extra protection such as a firewall, the ability to shred and encrypt files, or ransomware protection you should consider upgrading to Panda Premium.
Top Features
- VPN – Panda Free Antivirus is one of the only free programs that include a VPN. With a VPN you can stay protected no matter what internet network you connect to.
- Antivirus – With Panda Free Antivirus you receive real-time protection as any threats are identified and promptly disposed of. You can also run scans to check if your device is infected.
Panda Free Antivirus is 100% free and you don’t have to share any payment details when downloading the software. However, if you want extra features you can trial Panda Premium for 30 days. If you would like to purchase Panda Premium it currently costs $12.99 per month and you get the first month free.
Pros
- Free VPN
- Effective Anti-virus
- Creative theme
- Easy to use (no tech skills needed!)
- Strong web protection
Cons
- Slow scan times
- Inconsistent testing results
Avira Antivirus – Well-Known Anti-Spyware Program
Avira is a well-respected German brand that has been producing anti-virus software since the 1980s and is known for its extensive features and easy-to-use interface. With Avira Prime, your devices will always be protected and you no longer have to worry about dangerous spyware infections.
Avira Prime can be used effortlessly on all operating systems including Mac, iOS, Android, and Windows, and is fairly priced compared to its main competitors such as Norton and McAfee. We recommend Avira Prime if you are looking for a fast and sleek cloud-based anti-spyware that has all the features you need to stay safe online!
Top Features
- Real-time scanner – Malware and spyware won’t be able to infect your computer as Avira is always ready to meet threats head-on.
- Zero-day threat detection – Even brand-new viruses won’t be able to outsmart Avira.
- File encryption – Keep your sensitive information hidden and secure with Avira’s state-of-the-art encryption feature.
- Cloud-based – This software is very lightweight and won’t slow down your device at all!
Avira provides a 30-day free trial for all of their paid anti-virus software and you can enjoy full functionality without having to share your payment information. Alternatively, you can use Avira’s free anti-virus version indefinitely.
Avira has a range of payment plans to suit everyone’s needs and budget. Check them out below:
- 5 devices – $62.8 for a 1-year subscription
- 5 devices – $118.5 for a 2-year subscription
- 5 devices – 175.5 for a 3-year subscription
- 25 devices – $81.5 for a 1-year subscription
- 25 devices – $155.75 for a 2-year subscription
- 25 devices – 225.5 for a 3-year subscription
Pros
- Strong web protection – much better than Chrome or Firefox!
- Effective firewall
- Real-time protection against malware
- Fast anti-virus scan times
- Nicely designed platform
Cons
- No unlimited device plan
- VPN does not always circumvent geo-blocking
- Lack of Parental Control
Adaware Antivirus Total – Expert Spyware Defender
Adaware is a pioneer of anti-spyware software and their products continue to hit near-perfect scores under rigorous testing. Adaware Antivirus Total is their top-of-the-line product and is for users who are looking for a comprehensive security solution that is still easy to use.
With Adaware Antivirus Total you get a state-of-the-art firewall, web protection, real-time scanners, and a whole range of other features which are designed to keep your device secure. Currently, this software is only available on Windows and has a below-average price compared to competitors such as Bitdefender.
Top Features
- Fast scans – With Adaware, you can scan your entire computer in under 30 minutes!
- Email Protection – Never get tricked by a fake email again, as Adaware will alert you to anything fishy
- Phishing protection – During tests, this software was able to identify every single phishing attempt
- File shredding – Once you use the file shredding feature nobody will be able to see what you had stored on your device ever again!
Adaware does not offer a free trial for its premier software Antivirus Total. However, you can download their basic anti-virus software for free and use it indefinitely. Also when you purchase Antivirus Total you are entitled to a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Adaware Antivirus Total is very reasonably priced with a 1-year subscription for 1 device costing just $39.99. The company regularly runs sales where you buy a yearly subscription for under $30!
Pros
- The real-time scanner is highly effective at detecting and removing spyware
- Easy-to-use email protection
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- The firewall performed exceptionally well in tests
- Fast and easy to contact customer support
Cons
- Only available on Windows
- No VPN
- No file encryption feature
Spybot Antivirus – Good Antispyware Solution
Spybot was one of the first companies to take on spyware back in the early 2000s and they have done a great job protecting millions of users against even the most stubborn spyware. Spybot Search & Destroy is perfect for people who do not require extensive security software but just need the basics.
With Spybot Search & Destroy you get a powerful real-time threat detector and a full-scale anti-virus scanner all for an incredibly low price. If you want a basic, easy-to-use anti-spyware software that is affordable then you can’t go wrong with Spybot!
Top Features
- Real-time protection – Spybot is constantly running in the background of your device to keep you safe at all times. Spybot’s protection is capable of identifying and neutralizing even the toughest spyware.
- Comprehensive anti-virus scan – You can complete a full scan of your computer in 20 minutes or less. Spybot’s scan has proved highly effective under testing and is capable of quickly removing any nasty viruses your device may have picked up.
- URL blocking – Never go to a shady website again or click on a nefarious link due to this software’s state-of-the-art URL blocking.
- Wipe your history – Nobody will be able to see what you have been doing on your device thanks to Spybot’s wiping feature.
Spybot does not offer a free trial for its paid version but you are able to download their basic version which is 100% free but has limited features. Spybot Antivirus is one of the best deals on the market and will cost you just $15.99 for a 1-year subscription. Even the most basic version of the software from other companies typically starts around $35 per year.
Pros
- Very reasonably priced
- Fast scan times
- Real-time protection
- Effective URL blocking
- Completely wipes your history
Cons
- Only available on Windows
- Inconsistent results when identifying malware
- No phishing protection
What Is the Best Free Anti-Spyware Program?
If you are looking for free anti-spyware software that provides almost the same level of protection as paid programs then you need Bitdefender’s free version! With Bitdefender Antivirus Free Edition you get access to their real-time malware detector and can run comprehensive scans of your device ensuring that any threats are quickly identified and removed. Bitdefender consistently achieves 100% results during malware identification tests! The free version also effortlessly blocks nefarious URLs and has comprehensive phishing protection.
Bitdefender Antivirus Free Edition is ideal for users who are on a budget and are looking for intermediate anti-spyware protection. However, If you require an advanced level of protection you may find the free version is slightly lacking as it does not include a VPN (important if you are accessing public internet), file shredder (recommended if you need to remove sensitive files from your device) or ability to encrypt files (necessary if you are concerned about ransomware). Fortunately, Bitdefender Total Security includes all of these features and you can try it for free for 30 days!
What Is the Best Anti-Spyware for Mac?
While most anti-spyware software claims it is compatible with Macs this is far from the truth. To ensure your Mac is fully protected and is able to run at 100% of its capabilities we recommend McAfee Total Protection!
McAfee Total Protection is a bargain for Mac users as you can get this top-of-the-line anti-spyware software for just $34.99 for 1 year which is what many companies charge for their basic product. With this software you get a rigorously tested real-time malware scanner, an extensive firewall to keep intruders out, an unlimited VPN so you can connect to any Wi-Fi safely, and the ability to encrypt files so even if someone does access your computer they won’t be able to view your sensitive info.
McAfee is so confident in their product that they offer a virus protection pledge which states that if malware successfully bypasses their scanner their experts will remotely connect to your device and remove it. If they are unable to remove the phone tracker app they will refund your subscription package. To get started with McAfee Total Protection you can start a risk-free 30-day free trial today!
Conclusion
As cybercrime and spyware become more sophisticated you can’t afford to leave your devices unsecured. If you want to achieve peace of mind knowing that your devices are safe and never worry about having your identity stolen or your bank account raided then we highly recommend McAfee! With McAfee, you get world-class anti-spyware software that includes real-time protection, an unlimited VPN, ransomware protection, and more for as little as $44.99 for 1 year. Try your free trial now!