Worried that a booby-trapped web page or document could abuse a bug in your browser or Office? Malwarebytes Anti-Exploit shields browsers, Office, PDF readers and media players from exploit attacks. It is now offered only as a free, ongoing beta; the finished technology lives inside Malwarebytes Premium.
What does Anti-Exploit protect?
Exploit attacks take advantage of weaknesses in software to run harmful code. Anti-Exploit is designed to block these attacks by protecting browsers and documents as they are opened or used.
It does not rely on virus signatures. It watches how protected programs behave and stops techniques exploits rely on, such as memory tricks or launching hidden code from a document. That lets it block new, unknown attacks too.
How does it fit into everyday browsing?
The program starts with a preset configuration, so its protection does not depend on choosing individual apps or adjusting a set of security rules. It runs as an added layer alongside a primary antivirus or firewall.
That focus suits people who regularly browse websites or handle documents and want exploit blocking in addition to their existing security tools.
Which applications are covered?
Coverage includes the main web browsers, Microsoft Office programs, PDF readers such as Adobe Reader, Java and common media players. Old Flash and Java entries remain in the list but matter little today, since both plug-ins have been retired.
Pros
- Targets exploit attacks against browsers and documents
- Shields browsers, Office, PDF readers and media players
- Starts with a preset configuration
- Adds a layer alongside antivirus protection
Cons
- Standalone version is a perpetual beta, not a supported product
- Can conflict with other exploit-protection tools
- No malware scanning of its own
Is Malwarebytes Anti-Exploit still developed?
Only as a free standalone beta used to test new techniques. The supported version of the technology is built into Malwarebytes Premium.
Does it replace antivirus software?
No. It blocks exploit techniques only, so keep a full antivirus running alongside it.
Does it protect software besides web browsers?
Yes. Office programs, PDF readers and media players are shielded too.