Summary of Best Adblocker: Test vs Malware

Video Summary

The video titled "Best Adblocker: Test vs malware" evaluates the effectiveness of popular ad blockers, specifically focusing on their ability to block malware. The main ad blocker tested is uBlock Origin, which is widely regarded as one of the best in the market.

Key Points

• Testing Methodology:
  • A script was used to visit the 100 latest reported malware links to assess how well uBlock Origin can block malware.
  • The tests were conducted with specific settings: the malware domains filter was activated, and Firefox's default protections were turned off to isolate the ad blocker's effectiveness.
• Results:
  • uBlock Origin blocked 78% of the malware links, allowing 22 downloads to go through.
  • In a comparison test using Google Safe Browsing (with ad blocker disabled), the detection rate improved significantly to 97%, with only three malicious applications downloaded.
  • A subsequent test with Malwarebytes as a security solution yielded a detection rate of 98%.
• Comparison with Other Ad Blockers:
  • Ghostery, another popular ad blocker, performed poorly in this test, allowing almost all malware to pass through with only a 2% detection rate.
  • The results suggest that while ad blockers can enhance browsing experience by blocking ads and some adware, they are not a substitute for comprehensive malware protection.
• Conclusion:
  • The video concludes that while ad blockers like uBlock Origin and Ghostery are effective for blocking ads and improving user experience, they are not robust solutions against serious malware threats.
  • Users are encouraged to use both ad blockers and dedicated security software for optimal protection.

Main Speakers/Sources

• The video is presented by Leo from the PC Security Channel, who provides insights and analysis on the effectiveness of ad blockers in malware protection.
• The video also mentions ControlD, a DNS-level service for managing website access and blocking unwanted content.

Notable Quotes

— 07:56 — « They're great ad blockers, they're great for blocking trackers, getting rid of annoying popups and they do have the security benefit of blocking adware, malvertising, certain types of online threats. »

— 08:04 — « Not in any way like a major improvement on what you're getting with the browser anyway and definitely in no way a replacement for a security solution. »

Category

Technology

Video