Integrated Identity Protection and Security Suites

One of the unfortunate results of having the online world at our fingertips is the risk of having your identity stolen or your computer or phone compromised. 2020 saw yet another troubling year of security breaches that total billions or records accessed. In the constant “predator versus prey” battle among security providers and hackers, companies have recognized that people need more than just antivirus to stay safe online. Password managers, virtual private networks (VPNs), and other services can also be part of a comprehensive security package. But what to look for? We can help with our blog – Integrated Identity Protection and Security Suites.

Integrated Systems Are Not New

Symantec (now split into Norton LifeLock) was one of the first antivirus vendors to provide an integrated suite of security features called Norton 360. Market forces, reacting to increased demand, have responded in kind and expanded the offerings. A 2021 US News article featured other vendors including McAfee Total Protection, Bitdefender Total Security, IdentityGuard, IdentityForce, just to name a few.

In this piece, we’ll learn a little more about these security tools: what they bundle, why they might be useful, and whether they’re worth it to you.

What Do They Bundle?

Unlike pure antivirus packages, these integrated cybersecurity suites come with a wide variety of tools that fit most of your security needs. You’ll have to read through which systems offer which services, but as a minimum you should expect:

• Basic antivirus software for Windows and macOS devices. Most Internet security suites come from vendors that also produce high-quality antivirus software, so you’ll certainly get the protection from malware threats.
• Web and email protection. This feature is less useful today than it was in the past, now that email providers have significantly better spam filtering capabilities, and every major web browser uses built-in secure browsing features (such as Google Safe Browsing) to block malicious websites. However, Internet security suites can sometimes provide more comprehensive protection against web and email threats.
• Protection against threats on public Wi-Fi with a virtual private network (VPN). Most Internet security suites now include a VPN at no extra cost. Using the VPN it protects your sensitive data when you’re browsing on public networks.
• Identity theft and financial data protection. Many of these comprehensive security suites have also expanded to scanning the dark web and criminal databases for your Social Security number, credit card information, and more so that you’re alerted if they steal your information before it’s used.
• Password management software. In keeping with requirements to have optimized and unique passwords for each authentication need, forego the headache of having to remember your own passwords. Not only does a password manager do it for you they can help protect you from phishing, data breaches, and even more. You just need to remember your master password, (or with built-in browser features) your password manager will automatically fill your passwords on the correct websites.

Are They Worth It?

Other than the antivirus software, the features discussed are available separately with other companies, often at a lower cost considering a single purchase. But as you consider the price, also consider some advantages:

• You can manage all the individual components from one place.
• There is only one subscription cost to pay.
• Most coverage comes with customer service, so if one component has issues, you can reach a support center.
• Integrated systems work more cohesively, getting a more effective security package. You can have multiple facets of your online identity secured from one platform.

Some disadvantages may be:

• As we said earlier, these packages can have a higher price and you could have a limited number of device coverage.
• Some systems may not cover all your needs and you could have to supplement services.
• Some services may be limited by your choice of device operating systems.
• Comprehensive packages may offer a full suite of services, but they may not be as robust if you bought the same component individually.

These are only a few of pros/cons that we’ve found, but if you want convenience that works well enough out of the box with little configuration, an integrated suite is a preferred choice. Besides the U.S. News review, we wanted to include a very comprehensive piece from PC Mag that rates over 40 apps. Fortunately for us, choices have expanded and quite a few companies are competing for the top spot.

Final Thoughts on Integrated Identity Protection and Security Suites

Digital security is a subject foremost on our minds today whenever we’re online, and software companies are responding with better options for us to protect ourselves. Inclusive packages make safety easier to attain and, in most cases, can cover our multiple devices at a reasonable price.

We hope that you find this article helpful on Integrated Identity Protection and Security Suites and can use it to make an informed decision. We have other blogs on online security you can read up on, click here to access them.

As always, if you don’t see something here you want, please reach out directly to us through our Contact page or leave a comment below. Stay safe and all the best ~ Glen.