Patti Croft
Patti Croft is a writer at All About Cookies whose experience as a security specialist shapes her approach to product testing and evaluation. At AAC, Patti has authored an extensive library of hands-on reviews and comparisons, specializing in antivirus software and password managers. Her work consistently helps readers make sense of a crowded, often confusing product landscape by breaking down real performance differences rather than relying on marketing claims. She has written over 180 articles for AAC and tests on Mac and iPhone.
Before her cybersecurity writing career, Patti worked as a technical analyst at a leading medical center, where she earned a Certified Health Data Analyst (CHDA) credential — formal recognition of her expertise in managing and securing sensitive health data in one of the most compliance-intensive environments in tech. Patti holds an M.B.A. and a B.S. in Computer Science from Troy University.
In her spare time, she is an avid reader and researcher and loves spending time with her pets. She currently shares an office with her cat, Beau.
- Antivirus
- Password Managers
- Data Security
- M.B.A. and a B.S. in Computer Science from Troy University
- Certified Health Data Analyst (CHDA)
- Mac or PC: Mac
- Android or iOS: iPhone
Patti's Latest Articles
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Norton vs. Sophos 2026: Norton Has Everything You Need
Norton is a good choice for users wanting additional cybersecurity features with an antivirus suite. Sophos is no slouch either, and works for anyone wanting various options that may cost a bit more than other antivirus programs.
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Bitdefender vs. Trend Micro 2026: Bitdefender Defends Its Position
Trend Micro is a good option for those who want a comprehensive security program, and aren’t bothered by potential lower third-party ratings. On the other hand, Bitdefender offers reliability and almost-perfect protection scores.
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Norton 360 vs. AVG 2026: Premium Cybersecurity vs. Freemium Protection
Norton is a trusted name in cybersecurity, while AVG is known for its surprisingly high-quality free antivirus protection. Both offer solid antivirus coverage with different features and price points.
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Snapchat Account Hacked? Here’s What To Do
Has your Snapchat account gotten hacked? Don’t sweat it, we’ll show you how to regain access.
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Net Nanny Review 2026: Does This Outdated Parental Control App Still Hold Up Today?
After testing Net Nanny on our own devices, we found the parental control app offers essential features like content filtering, screen time management, and location tracking, but isn’t as user-friendly as others in the market.
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Trending Netflix Scams You Should Know (Especially #7)
Scammers use tried-and-true strategies like phishing and smishing to trick you into revealing sensitive information. Learn the most common types of Netflix scams to avoid and help keep your binge streaming — and bank account — safe.
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What Is Phishing? Expert Tips for Prevention and Recovery
Keeping up with evolving cybercriminals is the best way to avoid phishing scams. In this guide, we'll show you how to identify, stop, and recover from phishing attacks.
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How To Fix Your Slow PC: 16 Expert Tips to Speed Things Up
If you’ve wanted to learn how to clean up your computer to run faster, this article is your new guide.
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Can Installing New Antivirus Software Remove Existing Viruses?
Your computer has a virus, but your antivirus program is outdated — or worse — you don’t have protection. Will installing new antivirus software remove your existing virus? This article will explain how antivirus software does and doesn’t work.
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Norton vs. ESET 2026: Norton Edges Out ESET
ESET is a good product with proven third-party test scores, but Norton offers a cybersecurity suite for less. Which one is the antivirus for you?
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Bitdefender vs. Norton 2026: Is It Too Close To Call?
Bitdefender is a reliable antivirus with some simple interface tools that work seamlessly with Windows, while Norton gives users a powerful antivirus suite with plenty of features.
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How Whitelisting Can Improve Your Online Security
If you want better security, and you should, you need to use whitelisting. In this article, we will show you what it is and why you need it.
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How To Run an Antivirus Scan to Check for Malware
If you want to know how to run an antivirus scan for the best threat protection, you’re in the right place. We’ll show you the simple ways to do it no matter your device.
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Best Antispyware Software 2026: Which is the best spyware remover for you?
An antivirus with antispyware features can protect you from constant surveillance.
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The Best Password Managers for Families 2026
We review the pros and cons of our top password managers for families: RoboForm, 1Password, NordPass, Aura Password Manager, Proton Pass, and Dashlane.
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Sticky Password Review 2026: Does It Stick the Landing?
Our testing proved that Sticky Password can easily autofill your credentials and securely store your data for an affordable price.
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How To Protect Your Device From Locky Ransomware
Locky ransomware is a nasty, but sophisticated attack that can cost you more than you may think. We’ll teach you how to remove Locky ransomware from your device and provide tips to avoid ransomware.
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Bitdefender SecurePass Review 2026: Is It Good Enough for Your Passwords?
Bitdefender SecurePass is a great option to securely store your passwords, especially if you already use other Bitdefender products.
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What Is Wave Browser? How To Safely Remove the Unwanted Web Browser
If you’ve realized Wave Browser has appeared on your device, you might be wondering if it’s safe. We’ll show you what Wave Browser may be doing and how to remove it.
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The Best LastPass Alternatives 2026
Whether you’re new to password managers or just moving away from LastPass, we recommend RoboForm, 1Password, NordPass, or Keeper to get you started. Here's why.
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NordPass vs. Dashlane 2026: Can NordPass Dash Ahead?
NordPass is the software you want when you require an entire password suite for an incredible price, but Dashlane does allow slightly more users for their family plan.