We are increasingly reliant on tools to protect ourselves online from various threats. Two key tools in this ‘battle’ are the traditional antivirus scanner and the Fraud Scanner from Internet Politie. While they share the same mission—promoting online safety—their functions and goals are different. In this article, we explain what each tool does and how they complement each other.
What does a traditional antivirus scanner do?
An antivirus scanner is designed to detect and remove harmful software such as viruses, malware, ransomware, and spyware. These scanners check files, programs, and emails for known threats and offer real-time protection against new attacks. Using algorithms and databases of known virus profiles, they identify risks at an early stage. Antivirus scanners mainly focus on protecting devices from ‘infections’ that can harm performance or steal sensitive information.
How does the Fraud Scanner work?
The Fraud Scanner is a specialized tool aimed at identifying online scams. This includes phishing websites, fake online stores, and fraudulent ads. The scanner uses data from trusted sources, such as databases of suspicious domains and fraud reports. When a user visits a website that is deemed unsafe, the Fraud Scanner immediately issues a warning. This helps prevent users from becoming victims of financial fraud or identity theft.
You can find more information about how the Fraud Scanner works in [this earlier article].
Key differences
The biggest difference between a traditional antivirus scanner and the Fraud Scanner is the type of threat they target. An antivirus scanner protects against malicious software that can infect your device, while the Fraud Scanner specifically targets fraudulent websites that endanger your financial and personal information. The Fraud Scanner also has an educational component—we inform users about risks and teach them to recognize suspicious signs.
Why both tools are important
While an antivirus scanner offers good protection against technical threats, it often lacks the ability to detect scams. The Fraud Scanner fills that gap by warning users about cybercriminals trying to deceive them through fake websites or phishing. Together, these tools form a powerful combination to safeguard your online safety.
By using both an antivirus scanner and the Fraud Scanner, you can protect yourself not only from harmful software but also from financial and personal loss due to scams. A proactive approach using both tools is the best way to stay safe online.
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You can download the Fraud Scanner via this link.
