If you’ve ever looked for free games, movies, or software, you’ve probably heard of Softonic. However, you may be wondering if using Softonic is both safe and legal.
Online games, movies, and television shows have seen a significant increase in demand since the advent of Coronavirus. During a time of economic hardship, everyone is looking for freebies.
Is this free amusement, though, really worth our security worries?
Pirated content is a major problem in many nations today, and governments are taking strong action.
Then you’ve come to the proper location if you’re one of those people that think about this all the time when they visit these kinds of websites! We’ll tell you the truth about it right now.
Keep scrolling to see everything there is to see!
Let’s learn a little more about Softonic first.
Is it safe to use Softonic? The short answer is yes. However, even if Softonic is a respectable website, you should have an antivirus program installed just in case you get a nasty surprise when browsing there.
Third-party download sites are popular among gamers who want to save money by purchasing gaming software. However, some users have reported that when they downloaded software from Softonic, their machines were infected with malware, ransomware, and other harmful software. Here, you’ll learn about the dangers of downloading software from such sites, as well as some recommendations for doing it safely.
About Softonic
Softonic is a Spanish website based in California, with an objective to provide free content, apps, and games for online users. It was founded in 1997 and is owned by Softonic International. Softonic.com’s popularity can be seen by its number of visitors every month. You will be surprised to know that Over 100 million users visit it per month and it delivers more than 4 million downloads per day.
If you are thinking about the legitimacy of the Softonic, then this detailed review is specifically written for you. Here, we’ll take a quick look if Softonic is safe, legit, and genuine to use. Or, it can be dangerous?
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Is Softonic Safe and Legal to Use?
The main thing about Windows is that it gives its users a relaxation to pick any software and run it. And here the problems come into play.
Such a lack of restrictions increases safety risks. The malware, viruses and other potential threats embedded into the software packages causes serious safety issues. Their camouflage or disguise is getting more intense day by day.
Softonic inserts malicious malware and infected apps in the software and apps available on their websites.
There have been many reports from users on the web that their computers have started having issues after they installed a program from Softonic. Some users have also reported that the website provides malicious software, spyware, and other threats along with their downloads.
What are the risks?
Even though the Softonic website claims that every piece of software on it is scanned to make sure they are all virus-free and safe, the website is NOT 100% secure. What are the risks?
1. Software can become malware if attacked
Third-party software download sites are notorious for their security worries. If a download site is attacked and hijacked by hackers, the files on the site can easily be infected with malware.
2. Outdated software versions are fragile
Third-party websites don’t always provide the latest versions of software. Older versions of apps are often not secure, leaving users open to potential cybersecurity attacks.
3. Malicious ads are everywhere
Even though software hosting websites are safe and legitimate, the ads on them are NOT. Cybercriminals use ads that contain malicious links, and if these ads appear on a third-party software website and you accidentally click on one of them, you will be led to a malicious website or your computer could even instantly start downloading malware, ransomware, or another dangerous app unknowingly.
Pros :
Softonic was deemed safe by Google.
Yes, that’s correct. It is possible to check the trustworthiness of a website using a specific program.
According to Softonic’s website, all downloads are completely safe.
Softonic’s creators say that their website’s files, programs, and games are free of viruses and malware. In fact, we’ve tried and tested several of their claims, and they appear to be accurate.
Their domain registration is valid and legitimate.
Cons :
Malware that is downloaded infects files.
Softonic has made many boasts about its malware-free downloads, but the truth is that it has frequently led to the download of significantly infected files that contained various malware strains.
If app or site permissions are not properly specified, it takes control of the system and disrupts the operation of systems.
How to protect yourself
If you can, download software only from official sites or well-known, legitimate sources such as the App Store, Google Play Store, Microsoft Store, or Steam.
For an extra layer of protection, make sure your device has an antivirus program. Try Trend Micro Maximum Security (for desktops) and Trend Micro Mobile Security (for mobile devices).
Trend Micro Maximum Security provides Web Threat Protection, Ransomware Protection, Anti-phishing, and Anti-spam Protection.
Trend Micro Mobile Security’s real-time Security Scan feature alerts you to any malware hidden in software before it can be installed on your device.
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Conclusion :
Softonic is 50% safe and 50% not. : So what we have concluded here is that the content available on their website brings malicious stuff that may breach your security. Your computer may lag and function improperly. So, if you still want to access it, then it is suggested that you at least own a reliable antivirus before using it. It is now completely on you now how would you want to access it.
