Leading security firms Avast, AVG and Norton are shifting from traditional malware defence to comprehensive, AI-enhanced protection against scams, phishing, deepfakes and account takeovers, reflecting a new era of digital threats.
Cybersecurity in 2026 is shifting from simple malware blocking to broader protection against scams, identity abuse and fraudulent communications. Phishing, fake websites, AI-generated deceptions, account takeovers, ransomware and scam calls now target users as much through behaviour as through software, forcing security products to become more adaptive and more alert to how people are actually attacked.
That change is reflected in the latest versions of Avast, AVG and Norton. Avast says its Scam Guardian system now combines automated checks with Avast Assistant, an AI tool that can review suspicious messages, links, offers and screenshots and explain what is likely to be unsafe. Avast Premium Security also includes Scam Guardian Pro on mobile, with SMS Guard, Call Guard, Email Guard and the assistant itself aimed at texts, calls, emails and other deceptive content. Avast One continues to bundle antivirus, privacy and performance features across devices, including Windows, Mac, Android and iOS.
AVG is taking a similar approach, but with a lighter presentation for users who want straightforward security. Its current anti-virus and internet security products increasingly emphasise AI-assisted detection of scam websites, malicious links, risky downloads and phishing attempts. On Android, AVG now includes Scam Guardian features such as Web Guard, while Scam Guardian Pro adds Call Guard, SMS Guard and Link Guard. For businesses, AVG Business remains focused on centrally managed endpoint protection through its Cloud Console, giving administrators visibility over devices, policies and security status.
Norton has broadened its offering beyond conventional antivirus into what it describes as digital-life protection. Norton 360 plans now include AI-powered Scam Protection, designed to flag phishing, scam texts, fraudulent sites and deepfake-related threats, while Norton Genie acts as an assistant for checking suspicious content. For smaller companies, Norton Small Business combines device protection with a secure browser, password management, software updating, dark web monitoring and cloud backup, while the Premium tier adds Secure VPN, more backup capacity, financial and social-media monitoring, Driver Updater and business support.
Norton also announced a significant VPN upgrade on 31 July 2026, saying it had moved to ML-KEM-1024 post-quantum encryption, improved mobile connection reliability and added servers in 11 more countries, including Ethiopia, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire and Tanzania. The company said internal testing showed faster mobile connection times and fewer connection failures. For African resellers and organisations, that matters because distribution and support can be as important as the software itself. Avert IT Distribution, which acts as the regional channel for Avast, AVG and Norton, is positioning itself as a local route to licensing, renewals and technical guidance, alongside a WhatsApp support line for partners and customers.
Disclaimer: This content is intended for informational purposes only. Readers are advised to exercise their own judgement, conduct due diligence, or consult a qualified expert before acting on any information provided.
