Antimalware Availability

• Over the years, many antimalware programs have surfaced. Free applications include AVG Free Edition, Avira Antivir, Avast! Antivirus and Spybot-Search & Destroy. Many are supported through the installation of sponsored browser toolbars, while others come in the form of open-source software.
  
  

Malware Removal

• Antimalware programs are widely considered essential for remaining safe from computer threats. As a preventive measure, program updates are periodically available and in some cases automatically downloaded to a user's computer.
  
  

Masked Computer Threats

• Given the necessity of antimalware tools, many malware developers attempt to trick users into downloading spyware-driven programs in the form of supposed "antimalware tools." Such programs actually deliver viruses to computers instead of eliminating them.