Windows and Mac security settings to check now

It’s never good to go too long without checking your security settings. Now and then, you should brush up on your protections. Whether you use a Mac or a PC, all devices are vulnerable to attacks.

On the bright side, there are tons of built-in features you can take advantage of for your safety. For example, Windows Defender can help protect your PC from lurking threats. However, many native protections might be a bit hard to find on your own.

Luckily, we have you covered. We collected some essential security features on your Mac or PC. If you haven’t checked them in a while, it’s time for a quick visit!

1. Windows users: Turn on Tamper Protection

Microsoft first released this free security feature in 2019. It prevents third parties from disabling your protection against viruses and other threats.

That’s right: Criminals will try to delete security updates on your computer. They want to shut down behavior monitoring programs that protect you in real-time.

Luckily, Tamper Protection blocks any changes other programs try to make to your Windows security settings. The only way anyone can change settings is through your administrator account.

To turn on Tamper Protection, follow these steps:

  • Type Windows Security in the search bar at the bottom left of your screen. Then, open the app.
  • Next, select Virus & threat protection.
  • Click Virus & threat protection.
  • Hit Manage settings under the Virus & threat protection settings.
  • Scroll down to the Tamper Protection header. If it isn’t turned on, enable it.

Your screen will look like this:

FIREWALL VS. ANTIVIRUS: What’s the difference? Do you need both?

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8 signs that your computer has been hacked

If your device is connected to the internet, it’s vulnerable to hacks. It’s as simple as that. Cybercriminals are always coming up with new tricks to get into your gadgets and you should be aware of that.

Fortunately, there are usually signs that your device has been compromised. When it comes to smartphones, this can include spikes in data usage, battery drainage and changes to your home screen, among other indicators. Tap or click here for information on diagnosing and solving phone hacks.

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Delete this antivirus program, YouTube transcripts trick, Google Maps hack

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In this episode of Kim Komando Today, I’ll tell you which antivirus program you need to delete ASAP. It could be a national security threat. I’ve also got a Google Maps hack that lets you share your exact location. Plus, have you ever bought ads from Facebook? Maybe Meta owes you money.

Giving up Kaspersky? Get a year of Kim's antivirus pick for only $19

With tensions mounting across the world during the Russia-Ukraine War, cybersecurity experts warn not to use Russian-owned Kasperksy antivirus protection. Here’s why.

A question I get time and time again is, “What’s your antivirus recommendation?” Whether you’ve never used antivirus, stopped years ago, or want to get rid of Kaspersky, I can help.

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5 common VPN issues and how to fix them

VPNs, or virtual private networks, are typically set and forget services that don’t require a lot of troubleshooting. Unfortunately, this doesn’t mean there aren’t problems with VPNs you might have to address from time to time.

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Remove this popular antivirus software from your computers

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Have you ever downloaded an antivirus program called Kaspersky? It’s a national security risk. Listen to this one-minute podcast to protect yourself.

Most dangerous celebrities to Google

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Every year antivirus company McAfee releases its official list of celebrities, starlets, and big names that, when you search them out online, you’re very likely to land on a website that will quietly install a virus — or worse — on your computer. Here’s who topped the list this year.