Avast in the news

Avast, a popular antivirus software company, has been in the news for various reasons. Here are some recent updates:

  1. Acquisition by NortonLifeLock: In 2020, Avast announced that it would be acquired by NortonLifeLock, a cybersecurity company, for $8.1 billion. The deal was completed in January 2021, and Avast became a subsidiary of NortonLifeLock.
  2. Data breach: In 2020, Avast disclosed a data breach that affected around 40 million users. The breach occurred when an employee's account was compromised, allowing hackers to access sensitive data, including passwords and credit card numbers.
  3. Antivirus software controversy: Avast has faced criticism in the past for its antivirus software's behavior, which some users have described as aggressive and intrusive. The company has been accused of using its software to collect user data and sell it to third-party companies.
  4. Browser extension controversy: In 2020, Avast's browser extension was accused of collecting user data, including browsing history and search queries, without users' consent. The company was forced to remove the extension from the Chrome Web Store.
  5. Partnership with Microsoft: In 2020, Avast announced a partnership with Microsoft to provide antivirus protection to Windows users. The partnership aimed to improve the security of Windows devices and provide users with a more comprehensive security solution.
  6. Expansion into new markets: Avast has been expanding its presence in new markets, including the United States, where it has been gaining popularity as a cybersecurity solution.
  7. Cybersecurity research: Avast has been involved in various cybersecurity research initiatives, including the discovery of new malware and the development of new security technologies.
  8. Awards and recognition: Avast has received several awards and recognition for its cybersecurity solutions, including being named one of the top 10 cybersecurity companies in the world by Cybersecurity Ventures.

These are just a few examples of the news and updates surrounding Avast. As a popular antivirus software company, Avast is often in the news for its products, services, and initiatives in the cybersecurity space.