Patti Croft
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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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AVG Antivirus Review 2026: Is It Worth the Upgrade?
AVG Technologies has been available in the U.S. since 1991, and its flagship antivirus has evolved with the times. AVG earned top marks in AV-TEST lab tests and offers a full suite of security features.
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Malwarebytes Antivirus Review 2026: Is It Worth the Hype?
Malwarebytes offers user-friendly antivirus with a deep focus on removing malware. We relied on the latest third-party tests and our in-house testing to decide whether Malwarebytes is worth it.
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How to Turn Off Your Antivirus Software (and Reasons Why You Might)
There may be times you need to turn off your antivirus software. Whether you're using Microsoft Defender, Avast, AVG, Trend Micro, or other antivirus protection, here are the steps to disabling your antivirus software by operating system and brand.
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How to Block Ads on Hulu (It’s Easier Than You Think)
If you love watching Hulu but hate all the annoying ads, there are ways around it. You can have your streaming service and watch it ad-free.
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Webroot Antivirus Review 2026: How Does It Stack Up?
Webroot Internet Security Plus boasts cloud-based antivirus protection, but how does it really stack up as a virus scanning software? Let’s take a look.
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How to Stop Getting Facebook Ads in 2026
Facebook ads are out of control. So if you're annoyed with all the ads you see when scrolling through your newsfeed, there are ways to block Facebook ads. Learn how here.
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11 of the Most Dangerous Computer Viruses and How To Avoid Them
The most dangerous malware can cost you tons of money and time to repair your data and devices. Here’s what you can do to avoid the hassle.
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Truly Anonymous Browsing: How To Browse Online Without Anyone Knowing
Here’s how a VPN, secure browser, encrypted email, and other tools can help you achieve anonymous browsing online.
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How to Change Your IP Address by Device
If you want to have more online security, here's how to change your IP address on Windows, a Mac, iPhone, or Android the easy way.
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How to Find Free Wi-Fi Hotspots Anywhere
You can find free Wi-Fi hotspots near you with a few easy tips.
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Does Your Zoom Call Use More Data Than You Think?
You may not realize how much data Zoom can use, but there are ways to optimize your experience and avoid the data drain. We’ll show you how.
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How To Remove Malware from Your Android Phone
Android devices are not immune to malware infections. Learn how to remove malware and protect yourself from viruses, spyware, adware, and more.
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How To Remove CCleaner Malware
CCleaner remains a popular device optimizer, despite being repeatedly hacked by cybercriminals. Here's what to do if you think you have CCleaner malware.
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Is Ytmp3 Safe? How To Get Rid of the Ytmp3 Virus
If you’ve been on the ytmp3.cc website and are concerned you may have a virus, you could be right. Here’s what you need to know and do.
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Is Microsoft Defender Antivirus Enough to Protect Your Data in 2026?
Is the Windows built-in security Microsoft Defender Antivirus the best antivirus program to protect your system from a cyberattack? Maybe not.
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What Is a WPA2 Password and Is It Necessary?
Find out how a strong Wi-Fi password can mean the difference in internet security and identity theft.
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Is Antivirus Software Necessary in 2026?
The rate at which viruses get created in the modern era may terrify you. Here’s how antivirus software can help.
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Do I Need a Cookie Policy on My Website? [Guide on Cookie Compliance for Website Owners]
You may have heard you need a cookie policy on your website, but don’t know why or where to start. We’ll show you the reasons for having a cookie policy and resources for creating one.
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Norton 360 Antivirus Review 2026: Is It Still One of the Best?
Norton 360 is one of the most recognizable antivirus programs in existence. Is it secure enough to protect your devices? We take a deep dive into this well-known software to find out.
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McAfee Antivirus 2026: Does the Longtime Antivirus Still Offer What You Need?
McAfee has been around for a long time and is one of the most well-known antivirus programs available. Does it still offer trustworthy virus protection?
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Does Your Computer Have a Virus? Here’s How To Tell
Do you know the signs to look for in case you get a computer virus? These are the things you should check for to make sure your device isn’t compromised.
