Saturday 30 May 2015

Malwarebytes - A class act.

"Given this bad blood between the companies, and the implication of illegal / criminal activity, I wondered if Malwarebytes would detect IObit as malware ..."



I recently compared Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Premium to IObit's Malware Fighter 3 Pro.

Now while the purpose of my investigation was to see which product would trump the other, I was also curious as to whether they would "detect" one another as worrisome riskware.  In particular, I was wondering if Malwarebytes would detect IObit software.  While it is true that many big players in the anti-malware sphere do detect competitors (whether to crush smaller companies from establishing or for compatibility reasons), that was not the bases for my additional curiosity on these two smaller players.  You see, Malwarebytes and IObit have a sorted soap-opera history;  Or perhaps, It would be better to describe it as a crime drama.  A while back (2009), IObit was caught red handed in Malwarebytes cookie jar.  Compelling evidence (actually damning proof) was released that revealed IObit's indiscretion.  Malwarebytes released evidence that IObit was stealing their software secrets and integrating it into IObit products.

More here:
IObit Steals Malwarebytes' Intellectual Property

Given this bad blood between the companies, and the implication of illegal / criminal activity, I wondered if Malwarebytes would detect IObit as malware or a PUP (potentially unwanted program). I think many would have at this point.  In truth, every player in the market should have at this point.  If a developer is found to engage in illegal activity in one area, it likely follows they are involved in illegal activity in others.  At least they have shown they are capable of it and not restricted by morality.  A companies reputation is important for trust.  If the Hell's Angels produced banking security software, I would choose not to use it.  Honestly, who would?  Given this dynamic, it is interesting to note that Malwarebytes did not detect IObit software. The scan came out clean.  It seems Malwarebytes decided to take the higher ground.  I admire someone who takes one on the chin and yet holds their head up high.  From a gentleman's prospective, "well done".

I'd like to point out that IObit does suffer some detections from other companies.  Zemana is developing a multi-scan program, called Zemana AntiMalware, that uses 5 different scan engines from 5 different companies (kinda like Hitman pro).  As you can see, IObit's web surfing protection browser extension is flagged and ready for repair/deletion.


Again I must offer my commendation to a product that exemplifies honorable business practices.  A company that when punched, is willing to turn the other cheek.

If you wish to try Malwarebytes, click here.

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