By Staff What is really going on in the Comodo threads?

[Jack]

Hello everyone,

Whenever Comodo is mentioned on MalwareTips, the threads almost always turn into heated debates. Along with the very interesting discussions, we get:

• A large number of reports
• Angry members on both sides
• Requests to delete or censor posts
• Requests for staff intervention
• And sometimes even bad language or personal attacks

This puts staff in a difficult position: if we step in too much, people accuse us of censorship; if we don’t, members complain that things are out of control.


So, here’s a simple question to the community:

What is really going on in the Comodo threads?


We’d like to hear your thoughts on a few key points:

• What do you think is causing this behavior? Why do Comodo discussions become more heated than most other product discussions?
• How can we stop it? What can staff do better, and what can members themselves do to keep the debate fair and civil?
• Why do a few members keep using terms like “fanboy” or “hater”? These labels target the person, not the argument, and often trigger fights.

We want these threads to remain open to both fans and critics, but we also need them to stay within the forum rules.


Your feedback matters because this is your community. If Comodo threads keep turning toxic, nobody benefits.

 

[oldschool]

I chose "Other" because it was impossible to choose only one of the options. The first three definitely apply, and possibly others. Let's just call it like it is: All Comodo threads are train wrecks. Former member @Umbra settled the Comodo issue for me years ago*. Word.

* Unfortunately, we can't search for his posts as he's a "Forgotten seer".

 

[SHvFl]

At this point it should be no politics, no religion and no comodo for all forums. These three subjects are so polarising that can only lead to issues.

 

[simmerskool]

some posts (usually "con" comodo) are hyper emotional -- why, dunno.

 

[Sorrento]

I chose other as it seems there is more than one reason: Comodo threads are very polarising in the extreme, you are either a believer or you are against Comodo, seems there are no other choices, it ridiculous - As you did ask, the OP rules on the latest thread is enough to put any 'normal' user who isn't a 'content creator' or similar to even consider venturing to post which is off-putting to say the least or deletion will follow at the speed of light- The very nature of the OP rules is IMO controversial, I haven't posted on that particular thread & I'm not going to on any future threads, despite being an ex user of Comodo. as obviously I simply don't know enough. The threads seem to end up with the same worn arguments & frankly I find them tiresome. Just my 10 pence worth. - More moderation in starting Comodo threads.

 

[NoveyBoy]

Short answer: Haters playing the victim

 

[Moonhorse]

As much i used to love comodo, installed it first time to my pc like 15-17 years ago, and used it for long time past then too.

But nowadays i dont bother to read those threads at all

For me comodo is abandoned and should not even be discussed anymore, if someone geek likes to use it still just go with it. Just my personal opinion and im not hating comodo or anyone using comodo still

Its just shows up for me as disappointment after disappointment, theres alot better alternatives to go with

 

[Marko :)]

This problem will solve on its own once you get rid of Comodo subforum.

Let's be real; Comodo, while it exists in US registry of companies, it doesn't exist anymore. The development of their products stopped long time ago and are now security risk instead of being a security solution. That contradicts everything this forum stands for and as such, should not have their own subforum in the first place. Additionally, users starting threads about Comodo should be warned about security risks of using their abandoned products.

I appreciate the leadership of MT asking members for a suggestion.

 

[Zero Knowledge]

I think it's because there has not been a lot of issues in security lately worthy of debate or much to talk about. Things are much different than the XP/ZuESS Trojan days from the 2000's. Security is very much improved from 20 years ago and now with Windows Defender there is not much else needed for basic home users and security software innovation has stalled or the attack surface has moved to identity management and browsers. In other words it's pretty boring these days, you have the odd crypto and ransomware but not much else. And people love to bitch and moan and put people down, it's what humans do and now Comodo is MalwareTips version of 'security politics'.

 

[rashmi]

Your feedback matters because this is your community.

What is really going on in the Comodo threads?
The actual issue in the Comodo threads is the "individual" infamous for his toxic posts!

If you placed that individual and his toxic posts in a Kaspersky, ESET, or McAfee thread, you'd quickly see poor wording/labels, product history, over-reporting, and strong personalities emerging.

From where I stand, the staff gave the individual too much freedom for reasons. Moderators deleted users' comments before and after this individual's, yet ignored his offensive ones. The staff's actions were questionable rather than excessive or insufficient—this is the impression I got: honest feedback!

Review the thread, and you'll learn how it all begins in most Comodo threads—that's what I wrote in @Trident's thread; even if you look there, the individual began it with his usual toxic comments.

The individual seems to have left the forum, which should improve things in the Comodo threads, I'm sure!

 

[caleche]

What is really going on in the Comodo threads?
A few individuals have been posting offensive comments under every Comodo thread
They're trying to stop people from using Comodo, which is quite interesting.

 

[ForgottenSeer 114717]

• A large number of reports
• Angry members on both sides
• Requests to delete or censor posts
• Requests for staff intervention
• And sometimes even bad language or personal attacks

With utmost respect to those who are owners and staff at MT, moderation only makes matters worse.

It is well known that people will abuse report and other moderation tools on any platform to get their way and to deliberately work against their "opponents" or "perceived enemies." Moderation is weaponized by those that will use any means possible to mess with those that they disagree with. Over-moderation is a real problem not only on forums, but throughout the digital world. Over-moderation results in resentments and a form of radicalization.

When any MT staff intervenes in any thread, it has the appearance of bias for and against one side or the other, and definite bias against certain members. The only way for MT staff to remain neutral is to stay out of it. Neutrality should be MT staff's number one priority - and not protecting peoples' feelings.

Any intervention or moderation should only happen in the case of truly egregious violations or illegal behaviors. Debates, heated discussions, flame wars - whatever one chooses to label it - should be permitted to play out, even when "low blows" are made and taunting occurs. The "combatants" will eventually begin to tire and sputter out like unfit boxers. Sometimes quickly, sometimes slowly.

What is happening at MT, whether on a Comodo thread or one with a different topic, is the same behaviors as the greater "culture wars" being waged between factions across the entire digital ecosystem. It is the digital realm that invokes and enables the behaviors.

I stand by my position and will provide this example as proof - a MT staff member contacted me and asked if I wanted a poster's content reviewed and deleted and them placed on moderation. I refused because I strongly believe that it is censorship under the guise of "ensuring decorum" and "enforcing the rules." My perspective is that, while it is legal to do, it is the worst thing that can be done.

Moderators at Reddit and similar platforms complain that users cause this and cause that, and as a result of people and their behaviors, the moderators have so much to deal with. The solution is simple - stop the over-moderation by staying out of it.

 

[ForgottenSeer 123960]

Reputation-Based Culture

The primary concern with this forum lies in its reputation-driven structure. User reputation often reflects duration of membership rather than technical expertise, which leads to disproportionate influence for certain individuals. This dynamic fosters entitlement among long-term members and, in some cases, enables abuse of forum rules without meaningful consequences.

Hostile Environment

The issue has persisted over time and now manifests as a broader cultural problem. Instead of facilitating constructive discourse, the system is sometimes leveraged to create division and hostility.

Specific concerns include

Users presenting factual information or evidence are frequently subjected to personal attacks, including name-calling and mockery.

Individuals attempting to share legitimate perspectives are often targeted by collective criticism or ridicule.

Such behavior constitutes cyberbullying. Given that this is a cybersecurity forum, this type of conduct undermines both the credibility of the platform and the professional standards expected within the field.

Personal Experience with Comodo

It is important to note that my background in technology was shaped significantly by Comodo. At that time I had little technical knowledge. My first encounter with Comodo resulted in a system crash that required me to reinstall Windows, a task I learned to complete independently using library resources, as professional repair services were financially inaccessible at the time.

This experience proved pivotal. It led me to acquire a secondary system for testing, with Comodo as my starting point. Through this process, I gained valuable insights into the functions of Windows and foundational aspects of security software.

While I would not utilize Comodo Internet Security (CIS) today, given my professional growth and evolving requirements, I acknowledge that the product retains value for a specific user base. However, I do not recommend it for novice users, as its complexity is not suited to beginners.

Concerns Regarding Testing Methodology

My critiques of product testing on Comodo and other products are not driven by bias. Rather, they stem from a consistent lack of methodological rigor.

Many of these tests function as limited module evaluations or anecdotal case studies, yet they are presented as comprehensive product assessments.

Testers frequently draw absolute conclusions about product reliability without conducting full infection-chain analyses.

This approach produces misleading results, damages the reputation of both the product and the company, and ultimately reflects poorly on the forum itself.

A more responsible practice would involve including explicit disclaimers. Tests should clearly state when they are limited case studies that do not represent a product’s complete capabilities. This transparency would mitigate misinterpretation and help preserve the forum’s credibility.

Resolving these key issues would significantly improve the quality and clarity of discussions like these.

 

[Andy Ful]

I chose "Product history" as a primary reason. Such reasons as strong personalities, poor wording, and others can happen because people are convinced that they are truly right. Furthermore, Comodo is probably a case where both parties are right to some extent, and both parties have a feeling that the opponents do not listen.

I can see similar behavior in politics (US, Poland, etc.). My best friend in the political opposition and our discussions are similar to discussions here about Comodo.
Comodo is/was not the only hot topic. Similar problems were on threads related to Windows/Microsoft Defender. The reasons were similar. Defender had a controversial history. Even now, this topic can arouse unhealthy emotions.

If we want to discuss such hot topics, we should probably open them with the acceptance of the MT staff and with stronger rules.
Such a thread is currently open for discussion:

Thread 'Should Comodo users stop using Comodo?'

Sep 24, 2025

Should Comodo users stop using Comodo?
(Post updated on 10.10.2025)

There were some critical threads recently on MT. In one of them, it was suggested that:
Comodo users should uninstall it immediately because running it is more dangerous than running no antivirus at all.

Here is what a few MT members posted about Comodo:

1. Comodo pretending to be a (fake) cybersecurity company are its fanatics (immoral and irresponsible zombies promoting the use of abandonware full of dangerous bugs).
2. Persuading people to use vulnerable, not actively developed software just because you have some...

• Andy Ful
• Replies: 453
• Forum: Comodo

• 
• 
• 

However, it requires a higher level of discipline and clear rules. Participants must understand that deleting posts follows from breaking the rules and not from the fact that the post is not right.

 

[RoboMan]

"Strong personalities – some members can’t let things go."​

On point. This happens regularly, with several different products. Despite the fact that the terms "hater" or "fanboy" may sound like someone is belittling you, their meaning actually applies a lot here and in other security forums/social media.

To start with, there are two completely different types of security experts.

1. Those who are knowledgeable, and like to teach and share their thoughts
2. Those who know their subject, and use their knowledge to bash you, make you feel dumb, and feel somewhat superior on the field

We have many of both groups here. Of course, I won't mention any users of the last group to avoid conflict, and because it wouldn't add anything to the debate. But I do think that MalwareTips is conformed by both experts and enthusiasts. Despite I know some products very well, and am familiar with most terminology, I consider myself an enthusiast. People like Andy_Ful usually demonstrate a high technical level of process architecture and Windows operating system, and I always find myself extremely below them in terms of knowledge. But people like him not only develop tools for enthusiasts and regular users, they're always open to help and teach. These kind of brains are the ones who power up these forums.

On the other hand, there will always be users who know they know cybersecurity more than you, and will use it as a tool to not let you have an opinion. You usually see this on threads like Comodo's, or when they defend their preferred product and try to justify by all means it's better than the one you like. These kind of users will not let go the fact that you like to use a certain product they dislike, or the fact you don't like the product they do. These people are ultimately what bring forums down.

All in all, that's what happens with Comodo's threads. One can explain a product's advantages and flaws up to a point. Once you've shared your piece, and the final user still decides to remain a client of the aforementioned product, there's nothing else to do. There's no need to keep insisting on the subject. But well, these people will keep insisting on the same matter over and over, and this is when debates turn into heated discussions. Moderators should step up the moment one doesn't want to let the subject go. It's okay to not agree. It's not okay to make it your life's mission to change someone's point of view.

So, staff should let debates occur, and intervene when the debate is starting to turn into a discussion.

 

[Digmor Crusher]

It seems like there are 2 or 3 members on either side that always have to comment and always try to have the last word. Its like an obsession, they can't let it go and the result are threads that lose control. I find it quite entertaining for the most part, until the name calling and insults start that is.

 

[TuxTalk]

I stay away from the discussion. I have my thoughts , but since posting it here it can result in a flame war, i just keep quiet.

 

[Parkinsond]

I stay away from the discussion. I have my thoughts , but since posting it here it can result in a flame war, i just keep quiet.

A wise man once said, nothing.

 

[Trident]

I tested Comodo myself and gave it a chance.

Do I love it? Certainly not and certainly not as much as other products. I got a taste for premium stuff, always have, always will. When I do something myself (such as my Orion project), I do it to the highest standard possible.
Hence even my toaster (@Divergent mentioned choosing security product is not like buying a toaster), is this:

I-Master Series 7 - HTO7W2 001 - 37600003 – Haier UK

BLACK GRANITE, 1 slots, 7 toasting levels, 1300 (W)

shop-uk.haier-europe.com

Anyway…

I believe discussions (regarding Comodo or anything else) have much more weight when they are civilised. From all sides participating. It became very difficult for me at one point to take a side on the Comodo thread, or even to react in any way… hence I asked the thread to be closed.

Let’s all learn from this and try to keep discussions as peaceful as possible.

No AV is worth having a fight for.

 

[ForgottenSeer 123960]

I shared the truth, yet it seems that many here don’t actually want truth, despite claiming otherwise. Evidence presented in threads is often brushed aside with dismissive or sarcastic remarks, and not one person has openly acknowledged the points I raised, even though many know them to be valid. That’s precisely the problem, and exactly why I spoke up.

This community has been a source of inspiration for me since 2011, on and off. In those earlier years, it pushed me into a path of continuous learning that has shaped me deeply. That’s why it troubles me to see how the professional communities view this place today, largely because of the issues I’ve outlined.

This forum has done a lot of good in the past, and it has the potential to continue inspiring and educating others. But that requires an honest look at its problems, not sweeping them under the rug to appease a few users who react poorly to change. If some throw tantrums when things improve, so be it. I’d rather see this community thrive for the benefit of everyone than see it dragged down by a handful of people protecting their own comfort.