Permission revoked: Can’t remember which permissions you’ve given to which apps on your Android phone or tablet? There’s an easy way to check. From Settings, tap Security and privacy > Privacy > Permission manager.
Using free antivirus? Here's what it could cost you
The internet is dangerous and laden with hidden threats. Luckily, antivirus (AV) software can spot lurking dangers that want to take over your computer. Tap or click here to find out why you need antivirus software.
You may consider a free version if you’re looking for an antivirus tool. A few solutions won’t cost you a dime, which can be appealing. But, as with all things, you get what you pay for.
Downloading free antivirus software can be dangerous. It may or may not offer protection. Over the years, some have been caught stealing information from users.
The wrong VPN could compromise your privacy
Antivirus software sniffs out malware you encounter. It works as your device’s bodyguard, fighting against Trojans, botnets, ransomware, and other threats. This war is waged in the background, so you aren’t disturbed while working.
Free antivirus programs often offer a limited scope of features. If you want more protection, you’ll have to pay.
Even worse, some free AV programs can compromise your security
Free software provider Avast came under fire recently for reportedly selling users’ web browsing data. An investigation said Avast tracked users’ clicks and actions around the web.
Avast then repackaged and sold the data through Jumpshot, a subsidiary that shut down after the news broke.
Get actual protection with TotalAV
If you’re looking for an antivirus program that protects your data instead of exploiting it, we recommend our sponsor, TotalAV. It provides real-time protection that defends against cyber threats.
Plus, TotalAV checks installs and executable links for viruses whenever your device accesses them. It inspects downloads and immediately blocks any threats it comes across. Use its security filters to protect against malware and deceptive phishing websites.
How to run a 5-minute privacy check on your phone
We’ve all got a load of sensitive info on our phones — texts with loved ones, banking details, passwords and family photos.
You don’t want anyone snooping around, whether it’s an app maker on the other side of the world or the guy sitting behind you at the coffee shop. Take five minutes to run this privacy audit, and then pat yourself on the back for a job well done.
ADT hides a major cyber hack
How secure is your home or business? ADT just revealed a data breach but is keeping quiet about the timing and details of what was stolen. Plus, the risks of storing cash in Cash App, AI classes for seniors, and a crucial Amazon Echo security setting you should check.
Forget EVs: Plug-in hybrids are winning popularity contests, with sales in the U.S. almost doubling since 2019. Most folks are hesitant to go all-electric, so the gas engine adds some security. In many cases, they’re cheaper than purely electric or gas models, too (paywall link).
90% of workers
Use their company-issued laptops for non-work surfing. That includes (brace yourself) viewing adult content, gambling, accessing the Dark Web and streaming sports illegally. Beyond the fact your IT gal or guy sees everything you do on a work machine, it’s a major security risk. Don’t be that person.
Leak: Big Tech companies are listening to your convos
For years, tech companies have assured us no one’s listening through our smartphones to see what we’re interested in. It sure feels like it, though, when our ads seem so closely matched to our private chats with friends and family.
Security tip: Next time you stay at a hotel, turn on your VPN
Did you know the average American spends more than 24 hours each week online? That is a considerable chunk of time.
If you’re one of many with multiple devices regularly accessing the internet, you probably know you need a secure connection to protect sensitive data. A virtual private network or VPN is the best way to do this.
Elder fraud is on the rise – These are the most common scams
Here’s a stat that blows me away: One in every 10 seniors is a victim of identity theft each year. Americans over the age of 60 lost $3.4 billion in fraud schemes in 2023. That’s almost an 11% increase from the year before, and things are only getting worse.
Antivirus isn't just for your computer - Here's why you should protect your smartphone, too
You probably know that antivirus software is essential for your computer. Without it, you’re browsing without protection, exposing yourself to ransomware, viruses, Trojans, spyware and countless other threats. But your computer isn’t the only gadget that needs antivirus protection.
Retailers have so many ways to track you – Here’s how to fight back
If you have an internet connection, companies are racing to gather every bit of data they can on what you might buy — and they’re getting increasingly sophisticated about it.
How do they do it? Let’s dive into how retail tracking works and, more importantly, what you can do about it.
The danger of free VPNs
If you want to stay safe, you need a solid self-defense plan. This applies to both the real world and our digital lives. One of the best ways to stay safe online is by using a VPN or a virtual private network.
As a quick recap, a VPN is a cybersecurity tool you download onto your devices. You can hide your IP address, encrypt internet traffic and protect your browsing history. VPNs even help you get around geoblocking, which refers to content barriers based on your location.
Text scam: Chinese phishing crew behind fake delivery notifications
Oh, no! An urgent text from the U.S. Postal Service about your package delivery. Yeah, we all know by now these texts are fake.
And we finally know who’s behind the scammy messages. I thought this was super interesting, and I bet you will, too. A Chinese phishing operation has been farming personal info for the last year and a half.
This new AI software makes you look like someone else in real time
When I saw this video on social media, it stopped me in my tracks. A new, free AI tool can turn a person into someone else with just one click.
Before you panic, let’s take a look at how it works and how you can protect yourself and your identity.
Naan compare to you: Rumor has it Apple will manufacture its most expensive iPhone Pro models in India this year. Finally, they’re trying to diversify production beyond China. They say it’s about supply shortages, but politics and national security definitely play into this.
Stop mining my business: An Airbnb host got a nasty shock when guests used her house to mine $100,000 in crypto, sticking her with a $1,500 electricity bill. External security cameras caught them hauling out 10 computers and charging their EV. She got them to pay up, but now she’s got a strict “no crypto mining” rule. It’s a new world.
Big, bad reminder to keep your Mac updated: Security flaws in Microsoft apps like Word can let hackers in based on your existing app permissions — no extra verification needed. Stay safe: Keep your computer on the latest version of macOS and only download apps from the official Apple App Store.
🚨 How Charmin! Major TP-Link warning: U.S. lawmakers want to investigate TP-Link over fears China could use these routers to spy on Americans and the U.S. military. TP-Link is a hugely popular brand, but with routers made in China and a history of security issues, the concerns are real. Feeling uneasy? Here are a few steps to secure your router.
Delete these red-flag apps ASAP
Are you a criminal, hacker, spy or scammer? Step right up! You can have your own app for anyone to download in the app store, and it won’t cost you a dime. Here’s a dirty secret: Apple tries to vet most apps. Google doesn’t even try to do that, but there is a setting that helps. More about that below.
World Photography Day: 8 tips and tricks + a security must
August 19 is World Photography Day! It’s also National Potato Day and International Orangutan Day, but let’s focus on photos. (See what I did there?)
Below are some of my favorite tips and tricks for better smartphone pictures, along with a privacy tip at the end that always gets at least one major “thank you.”