Malwarebytes Review: Fast Scans, Solid Protection

At a Glance

Malwarebytes is a cybersecurity company founded in 2008 and headquartered in California. They offer tools that detect and remove malware, adware, spyware, and other online threats. Their products are designed for both individuals and businesses, with a focus on ease of use and broad accessibility. Malwarebytes is available in free and paid versions—the free version offers manual scanning, while the premium version includes real-time protection, scheduled scans, and malicious website blocking. Their technology uses AI and behavior-based detection and is trusted by schools, hospitals, governments, and enterprises. The company has addressed past security vulnerabilities quickly and maintains a bug bounty program to encourage responsible reporting.

Features & Services

Real-time threat prevention: Malwarebytes Premium Security delivers continuous antivirus protection against malware infections, ransomware, spyware, and other malicious attacks. It proactively blocks threats before they cause harm, and runs with minimal impact, as confirmed in performance tests.

Ransomware protection: This feature prevents unauthorized file encryption to stop ransomware in its tracks. It adds a critical layer of defense on both Windows and macOS.

Web protection: Blocks phishing sites, scam pages, and malicious URLs while you browse. Whether you’re on Chrome, Firefox, or Safari, this layer of internet security helps you avoid common online threats.

Malicious URL and phishing protection: This feature detects dangerous links and phishing attempts in real-time. It works seamlessly with the Browser Guard Extension and adds extra protection when visiting less familiar websites.

Behavior-based detection: Rather than relying solely on known malware samples, Malwarebytes monitors how apps behave. This allows the system to catch new and evolving threats that some default antivirus apps might miss.

Vulnerability assessment: Scans your system for vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malware, helping you address potential security gaps.

Browser Guard extension: This browser add-on blocks scam ads, trackers, and malicious content before it loads. Available on the Chrome Web Store and compatible with multiple browsers, it offers solid extra protection while you browse.

Privacy VPN: Offered as part of the premium security package or as a third option, the VPN encrypts your online activity. It’s ideal for users who want secure browsing and extra privacy, especially when using public networks.

Identity theft protection: Monitors your personal data for signs of misuse and alerts you to potential breaches. Combined with the Trusted Advisor feature, it adds extra assurance for users managing sensitive information online.

Malwarebytes Plans & Prices

Malwarebytes offers several plans for individuals and families, with options for single or multiple devices—all backed by a 60-day money-back guarantee.

Personal Malwarebytes plans

Standard: Starting at $44.99 per year, the Standard plan offers essential antivirus protection for one device, whether it’s a computer, phone, or tablet. It includes malware protection, virus protection, ransomware defense, phishing protection, ad blocking, and rootkit protection.

Plus: Priced at $59.99 per year, the Plus plan includes everything in the Standard package and adds a high-speed, no-log VPN. It supports anonymous browsing and allows users to choose their browsing location, making it a good fit for those who want both device security and online privacy.

Ultimate: Available for $119.99 per year (discounted from $239.99), the Ultimate plan combines antivirus protection, VPN, and identity security in one package. It includes all Plus features and adds $2 million in identity theft insurance, advanced social media monitoring, dark web monitoring, three-bureau credit reporting, and personal data removal tools.

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Teams plan (Business plan)

The Malwarebytes Teams plan is built for small businesses that need to protect up to 20 devices. It starts at $119.99 per year for 3 devices and can scale depending on the size of your team. It includes real-time protection against viruses, spyware, and malware, and also offers tools for cleaning already infected devices. Features like Brute Force Protection for Windows, Tamper Prevention, and monthly security reports help businesses monitor and maintain device security without needing advanced IT skills. The setup process is simple, and the service works on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. Businesses also get access to priority support by phone, email, or scheduled call. The plan includes a 60-day money-back guarantee.

Advantages

Application hardening

Malwarebytes security strengthens high-risk programs like browsers and PDF readers by blocking exploit techniques that attackers use to gain access through software vulnerabilities. This is especially important when using older systems or apps without the latest patches.

Behavior monitoring

Malwarebytes uses behavioral analysis to stop suspicious activity in real-time. It’s particularly effective at catching ransomware based on how it behaves, not just its signature. This improves the detection rate against evolving threats like fileless malware or trojans.

Browser Guard extention

The Browser Guard extension enhances online privacy by blocking malicious websites, phishing attempts, and tracking cookies. The Breach Alert tool notifies you if your information has appeared in a public data breach, giving you a chance to take action before further damage occurs. The Auto-Cookie Block handles privacy settings on your behalf. Available for major browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Edge, it’s a lightweight way to improve your browser’s security.

Affordable pricing

Compared to many competitors, Malwarebytes offers strong malware protection at a lower cost. Plans for individuals and families are priced competitively, especially when compared to larger antivirus brands like Avast, Norton, or Microsoft Defender. This makes it a practical choice for users who want reliable antivirus software without overpaying.

Free plan available

Malwarebytes provides a free plan that includes on-demand malware scanning and cleanup. While it doesn’t offer real-time protection like the Premium version, it’s a solid tool for removing malware infestations from infected systems. It’s available for download on Windows, Mac, and mobile apps via the Google Play Store.

Disadvantages

Free version functions as a scanner only

The free version only offers on-demand scanning and lacks core antivirus features like real-time protection, ransomware defense, and web blocking. It’s useful for cleaning infected devices but isn’t reliable as your only line of defense.

Customer support concerns

Online reviews often mention slow or unhelpful customer support, especially when dealing with billing disputes, subscription cancellations, or technical issues. Several users report long wait times, unresolved tickets, and difficulty reaching a live agent. In some cases, customers had to escalate through multiple channels just to receive partial refunds or basic assistance.

Missing advanced tools

Malwarebytes doesn’t include a firewall, password manager, or parental controls—features commonly offered in other security suites. This limits their appeal for users looking for all-in-one protection.

Customer Experience

Malwarebytes has a 4.5 out of 5-star rating on G2 and a 3.7 out of 5 on Trustpilot. Most users highlight their ease of use, strong malware protection, and responsive customer support. That said, reviews on Trustpilot are more mixed, with some users voicing concerns about billing issues and overly aggressive site blocking.

Positive reviews

Customers often highlight reliable malware detection, low system impact, and cross-platform support. Several long-time users remark that the software consistently blocks threats without slowing their computers. One customer shared that after several antivirus tools failed to detect a threat, Malwarebytes successfully removed it—prompting them to upgrade to a paid plan. Business users appreciate the clear dashboard, scheduled scanning, and alerts. Some customers also noted that the Browser Guard plugin effectively blocks malicious websites and ads.

Negative reviews

On the flip side, many complaints focus on aggressive billing, poor refund handling, and overly sensitive blocking of safe websites. One user was charged over $500 due to a subscription glitch, while another struggled to stop daily charges after canceling. Several users also said the software blocked legitimate sites, like email providers, and caused unnecessary inconvenience. These issues reflect broader concerns around trust and customer experience.

How Can I Reach Out to Malwarebytes?

If you need help with your Malwarebytes product, managing your subscription, or resolving a technical issue, you can reach out to the company through several support channels. For troubleshooting or product-specific questions, you can access detailed guides for desktop security, mobile security, identity theft protection, personal data remover, VPN, and browser guard through their support center. If you need direct assistance, you can launch their AI chatbot to create a support ticket or connect with a live agent. Malwarebytes also offers cybersecurity resources, including a cyber education hub, a blog, and the Lock and Code podcast, which covers security news and interviews. To stay updated or get in touch through social media, you can follow them on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Conclusion

Malwarebytes offers a comprehensive range of cybersecurity tools designed to protect individuals, families, and small businesses from malware, ransomware, phishing, and other online threats. With real-time protection, behavior-based detection, a secure VPN, and browser extensions, the software balances strong security with ease of use. The system supports multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, and includes added features like identity theft protection and vulnerability assessments. Plans are priced competitively, with options for single or multiple devices, and a free version is available for basic malware scanning. Malwarebytes is a practical choice for users looking for reliable, straightforward digital protection.

If you’re still exploring your options or looking to build a secure online presence, we’ve got you covered. Start by browsing our list of top website builders, then see how they compare using our easy-to-use comparison tool. For more insights, tips, and updates, head over to our blog.

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