Avast Online Security & Privacy review
A free browser extension pairing phishing warnings with practical privacy controls.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Avast Online Security & Privacy is a free browser extension for people who want warnings about dangerous websites and basic privacy controls while browsing. It checks visited URLs, can block access to dangerous sites including phishing pages, and marks search results with safety indicators. Its focus is browser-level protection rather than broader security management, making it a fit for solo users and small teams seeking a lightweight layer in their browser. Avast lists support for Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and Opera; Firefox support has ended.
The extension combines phishing defenses with several privacy tools. Anti-tracking controls address website tracking systems, while advertiser opt-out requests and step-by-step privacy guides add ways to manage privacy preferences. A cookie consent manager can hide cookie pop-ups or accept or decline choices. These features give the extension a wider scope than URL warnings alone, though some premium privacy features require an eligible Avast One or Avast Premium Security subscription. The core extension is free, so buyers can consider it without a paid plan while keeping that subscription condition in mind for premium tools.
The main trade-off is its browser-extension scope: protection and controls are tied to supported browsers, rather than presented as a standalone product. Support is through documentation, which may not suit buyers who want a direct support channel. Choose Avast Online Security & Privacy if free browser warnings, phishing blocking, search safety indicators, and privacy controls address your needs. Look elsewhere if you need protection beyond a browser extension or prefer support beyond documentation.
Avast Online Security & Privacy pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Scans visited URLs and can warn about or block dangerous sites
- Adds safety indicators to search results to help spot phishing sites
- Includes anti-tracking, advertiser opt-outs, and cookie controls
- Where it doesn't
- Protection is delivered through a browser extension, not a standalone app
- Some privacy features require an Avast One or Avast Premium Security subscription
- Support channels are limited to documentation
Avast Online Security & Privacy fact sheet, pricing and score →
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