Avast Launches Global Scam Guardian and New Deepfake Guard to Combat AI Manipulation

Avast, the prominent cybersecurity company, announced today the global expansion of its Scam Guardian feature alongside the launch of a new Deepfake Guard tool, both aimed at combating the rising tide of sophisticated digital threats.

The company’s Scam Guardian, previously available only in select markets, will now protect users worldwide against an increasingly complex landscape of online scams. The feature works by scanning incoming messages across various platforms to identify potential threats before they can cause harm.

“We’ve seen a 50 percent increase in phishing attempts in the past year alone,” said Maria Rodriguez, Avast’s Chief Security Officer. “By expanding Scam Guardian globally, we’re responding to the urgent need for more comprehensive protection against these evolving threats.”

The timing of the expansion comes as cybersecurity experts report a troubling surge in scam activities worldwide. According to recent industry data, financial losses from online scams exceeded $43 billion in 2022, with the average victim losing approximately $1,500.

Alongside the Scam Guardian expansion, Avast unveiled its new Deepfake Guard tool, specifically designed to combat the growing problem of AI-generated fake media. The technology uses advanced algorithms to detect manipulated images, videos, and audio that could potentially be used in scams or disinformation campaigns.

Deepfakes represent one of the most concerning developments in digital threats in recent years. These AI-generated forgeries can convincingly superimpose someone’s likeness onto existing media or create entirely fabricated content that appears authentic. The technology has already been used in various scams, from fake video calls impersonating executives to fraudulent voice messages requesting emergency fund transfers.

“The democratization of AI tools has made deepfake creation accessible to virtually anyone with an internet connection,” explained Dr. Thomas Chen, a cybersecurity analyst at Digital Frontiers Institute. “What once required significant technical expertise and resources can now be accomplished with user-friendly applications, creating substantial security challenges.”

Avast’s new tool employs multiple detection methods, including analyzing visual inconsistencies, audio anomalies, and other technical markers typically present in synthetic media. The company claims its technology can identify over 96 percent of manipulated content, even when created using the most advanced generative AI systems.

The cybersecurity industry has been racing to develop effective countermeasures against deepfakes since their emergence several years ago. Avast joins competitors like Norton, McAfee, and Microsoft in offering dedicated tools to combat this specific threat vector.

Market analysts suggest the timing of Avast’s dual announcement may be strategic. The global cybersecurity market is projected to reach $376 billion by 2029, with consumer-focused protection solutions representing a significant growth segment.

“Companies that can effectively address emerging threats like deepfakes while strengthening protection against traditional scams are well-positioned in today’s market,” said Samantha Park, technology analyst at Global Market Insights. “Avast’s approach demonstrates their understanding of both current threat landscapes and consumer concerns.”

The new features will be integrated into Avast’s premium security packages and gradually rolled out to users worldwide over the next month. The company has not disclosed whether any elements of these protections will be available in their free-tier offerings.

Industry experts caution that while these tools represent important progress, user education remains critical in preventing scams. Even the most sophisticated detection systems can sometimes miss new variants of threats, particularly as scammers and AI developers continue their technological arms race.

“The combination of technological solutions and informed users creates the strongest defense,” Rodriguez added. “We’re committed to providing the tools, but we also emphasize the importance of developing a healthy skepticism when encountering suspicious content online.”

As AI technologies continue advancing at a rapid pace, cybersecurity companies face mounting pressure to innovate equally quickly. Avast’s latest offerings highlight the industry’s pivot toward addressing not just traditional malware threats but also the more nuanced dangers posed by social engineering and manipulated media in our increasingly digital world.