Powerful ransomware scanner
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Free ransomware scanner and ransomware protection
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Free ransomware scanner and ransomware protection
Avast has been stopping ransomware for years, and we’re only getting better with age. With Avast One, you will enjoy the world’s largest threat-detection network and machine-learning ransomware protection in a single, lightweight security tool. Plus, it’s 100% free.
Get it for Mac, PC, Android
Get it for PC, Mac, iOS
The benefits of Avast One’s ransomware scanner and remover
Scan center
We’ll scan for and remove the malware that’s putting your PC at risk, no matter where it’s hiding.
Behavior Shield
Alerts you immediately if unusual app behavior is detected that may indicate a threat.
Malware alerts
If unusual app behavior is detected, you’ll see an immediate alert to block the threat.
File Shield
Blocks malicious files and programs from opening, and alerts you if new dangerous files are detected.
24/7 updates
We update our software constantly to protect against new and emerging ransomware strains.
Quarantine
Isolates potentially harmful files from the rest of your system to keep your computer safe.
Scan center
We’ll scan for and remove the malware that’s putting your PC at risk, no matter where it’s hiding.
Behavior Shield
Alerts you immediately if unusual app behavior is detected that may indicate a threat.
Malware alerts
If unusual app behavior is detected, you’ll see an immediate alert to block the threat.
File Shield
Blocks malicious files and programs from opening, and alerts you if new dangerous files are detected.
24/7 updates
We update our software constantly to protect against new and emerging ransomware strains.
Quarantine
Isolates potentially harmful files from the rest of your system to keep your computer safe.
Avast’s top-performing cybersecurity engine has been winning prestigious awards for years:
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PCMag: Editors’ Choice, 2023
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TechRadar: 5 stars, 2021
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AV-TEST: Top Product, AV Test Certified, 2022
A ransomware scanner trusted by over 400 million users
But don’t just take our word for it.
The UI for your software - amazing. Great work over the years. Can't say enough good things! Thank you, Avast, for the excellent work you do. I run your antivirus software on both my Mac OS X and my Windows machines. You have the best products on the market, period. I’ve been using Avast for over a year and have found it one of the best free software protection devices on market.Ryan R.
Eric S.
Daryl C.
Macs and mobiles need ransomware protection, too
Ransomware can hold any device hostage, including Macs and mobile phones. Avast’s free antivirus software will help you protect against and remove ransomware from any device.
MAC
ANDROID
IPHONE/IPAD
Avast’s antivirus software for Mac strengthens Mac’s built-in security with specialized protection against malicious threats. Our leading security tool fights malware like ransomware and viruses while also countering phishing attacks, malicious websites, and Wi-Fi snoops.
Avast’s free Android security tool gives your phone the same ransomware-stopping power your PC enjoys. With one of the world’s largest threat-detection networks, our security app protects against mobile malware while helping you avoid phishing attacks and Wi-Fi threats.
Avast’s iOS security app bolsters Apple’s built-in security features by blocking ransomware and other malware and helping you browse the web safely.
FAQs
The best way to avoid ransomware and other malware is to use a powerful antivirus tool while also practicing safe online habits, such as not clicking strange links or downloading unknown files. Technically, no. A virus self-propagates, while ransomware encrypts and holds your files hostage. Ransomware is a type of malware — which is an umbrella term that encompasses all kinds of threats, including ransomware and viruses. Even if all your files are encrypted, you can remove certain strains of ransomware from your PC, Mac, Android, or iPhone by using a comprehensive anti-ransomware tool like Avast One. There are also free ransomware decryption tools available online. And don’t worry about hackers’ claims that these decryption tools will delete your files — that’s just a bluff to get you to pay the ransom. Windows 10 and 11 both have built-in features that can help protect against ransomware. To enable Windows ransomware protection, find Ransomware protection under the Virus and threat protection tab within the Windows Security app and turn on Controlled folder access. Note that Windows Security may not be enough to protect you from all malware strains. A comprehensive cybersecurity solution like Avast One will protect you against new and emerging malware threats, as well as phishing attacks and data breaches. Plus, Avast One includes a built-in free VPN and other advanced privacy tools. How can I prevent ransomware?
Is ransomware a virus?
How to remove ransomware from an infected device
Does the built-in security on Windows 10 provide enough protection against ransomware?
Other tools
Helpful links
- How to remove ransomware from Windows 10, 8 or 7
- How to remove ransomware from a Mac
- How to remove ransomware from Android devices
- How to remove ransomware from your iPhone or iPad
- The essential guide to ransomware
- How to prevent ransomware
System requirements
We’re not demanding. All you need is a PC with Windows 11,10,8.1,8or7*,1 GB RAM
and2 GB of hard disk space. And that’s it.
* Both the 32- and 64-bit versions, excluding Starter and RT editions.
Windows 10 compatible
