I hope this post finds you well. Recently, I installed simplewall on my computer and during the setup, I noticed that Avast has several executable files requesting internet access. Here’s a list of the files in question:
Initially, I allowed all of them, assuming they are necessary for core functionality such as updates and threat identification beyond virus definitions. However, upon second thought, I am curious to know if all these executables are indeed essential or if some can be restricted without compromising the core functions.
I’m beginning to harbor concerns that Avast might be engaging in data-related activities once again. Previous cases of user data sale had left me hopeful that Avast had ceased such practices following a scandal. However, the ongoing and persistent firewall requests from various Avast executables are prompting me to reevaluate and question whether these practices have truly been abandoned.
Can someone from the Avast team shed light on the purpose of these executables and reassure the community about the privacy practices? Are these firewall requests genuinely essential for the core functionality, or should some of them be restricted to enhance user privacy?
Look, I’m really worried, you made me reflect on what happened with Avast in the recent past.
1- I also wanted to know if avast changed these practices?
2- After GEN DIGITAL took over the company avast, did this change?
3- What changed after the company GEN DIGITAL took over avast by purchasing the avast product?
Nothing has changed, it has been like that for a long time… and it’s just a natural development.
20 years ago, you may have been able to say “this process does virus definition updates and the rest doesn’t need network access”. But a few years later, things started to change - new security features (with online checks) have been implemented, and generally more and more stuff gradually moved online; it’s faster to deliver (i.e. you get a better protection) and easier to maintain, and some features simply cannot be achieved locally on user’s computer.
So, in addition to virus definition updates, you have emergency updates (some intentionally in different processes in case the usual one didn’t work), you have streaming updates, you have file reputation checks, DeepScreen, CyberCapture, licensing, even most of the UI is now online. So yes, I believe all of the listed processes should have network access, otherwise some parts of the program are limited (be it the level of protection, reliability or usability).
Great clarification on the subject.
I thought that after purchasing GEN DIGTAL, Avast would have changed its practices. But it was all in my head. Now with your explanation I understand that many things have changed 20 years ago, today it is necessary for Avast to have some automatic controls to improve the efficiency of the product and satisfaction of its customers. Congratulations to the avast team for their many years of work protecting us from cyber threats