Here are a few settings that you can enable in Avast Internet Security to increase the level of security:
Avast free Antivirus detects viruses and malware, but is also able to protect your system against adware and potentially unwanted software (search bars, intrusive adware, etc.).
This option is not enabled by default. Here's how to activate it.
- Open Avast, click on Settings, then on Active Protection and click on the gear next to the Files System.
- In the "Sensitivity", select "Scan for potentially unwanted software (PUPs). Note: This action must be repeated for the Web Shield layer also..
Also, in the Web Shield field, you can enable "Warn when downloading files with poor reputation"
Are you actively using the Avast Sandbox? Do you know what it is, and how to use it?