Chrome users who have installed shady extensions in the past three years. These extensions included malware and often asked for advanced permissions during installation. On average, dangerous extensions stayed in the Chrome store for over a year before getting the boot. Good job there, Google.
3 common mistakes when installing security cameras
Security cameras give us peace of mind that our homes and valuables are safe when we’re away. A doorbell camera can be a significant deterrent for sneaky thieves.
They aren’t failsafe, though. Crooks can jam Wi-Fi-connected video doorbells and rob you before you realize what happened. It’s rare but possible. Tap or click for smart ways to stop them in their tracks.
The good news is you can take steps to protect the devices that protect you.
1. You cheaped out.
We all want to save a buck, but going for the cheapest option is never savvy regarding tech. I don’t just mean you’ll miss out on essential features, either. Cheap brands are more likely to cut corners regarding security, too.
Here are the features I think are essential:
- Audio recording and HD video (you’ll wish you had this in case something happens and you need the footage)
- A privacy shutter that covers the lens when you don’t want the camera filming
- At least seven days of storage
- Regular security and firmware updates
My pick is SimpliSafe, a sponsor of my show. I prefer DIY options that allow you to order what you need online and set it all up yourself without paying for installation or a costly annual contract.
Speaking of saving money, these five mistakes are like flushing cash down the toilet.
2. You just plugged it in to get it to work.
Repeat after me: Default passwords must be changed. This step is vital when it comes to your security system or even just a standalone camera.
There’s no excuse for using a weak password, either. Even if you don’t pay for a password manager, the major browsers have built-in tools that generate and store unique passwords for you.
Revive your old PC or Mac with this free download
Many computer users feel the need to keep their devices up to date with the latest hardware. After all, if you don’t have the latest components or accessories, your laptop or desktop computer might not be compatible. Tap or click here for seven laptop maintenance steps you should do regularly to keep yours happy.
How to upgrade to a video doorbell without wiring it
Video doorbells are one of the best investments you can make for home security. It’s been shown they can deter up to 43% of criminals from actually causing problems. Tap or click for seven clever new uses for your smart doorbell camera.
Do this before installing any program on your computer
Your PC is running things in the background without you knowing it, and Windows is the main culprit. While some quiet tasks are necessary to keep things going, others can be switched off. The result is a faster, smoother experience. Tap or click here for five processes you can end right now.
Need help setting up your home security system? SimpliSafe is just a call away
By now, it’s crystal clear that a home security system is a literal lifesaver. Depending on your choice, your cameras can catch burglars and even call for emergency help. Despite the many benefits, a few key concerns stop people from buying one.
List: 50+ laptop models are a security risk after bad update
It is always a good idea to update your computer’s operating system and software to the latest versions. This ensures that any security vulnerabilities are patched and that hackers can’t breach your data. Tap or click here for instructions on downloading the latest Windows update, which fixed six zero-day flaws.
40% off sale! The home security system you can set up yourself in 30 minutes
Think of the words “home security” and what comes to mind? An installation crew, pushy salespeople, an expensive monthly bill and, of course, shelling out a ton of money to get the whole thing set up.
Good news: It doesn’t have to be that way. With our sponsor, SimpliSafe, you can protect your entire home, around the clock, without busting your budget or even pulling out a drill. Install it all yourself in minutes, then it just works. And the best part is, right now, Kim’s listeners can get a SimpliSafe system for a whopping 40%. This deal won’t last long. Tap or click here to shop!
Best video doorbells: 5 options for keeping an eye on the porch
A video doorbell can make you feel safe when you’re away from home. Keep an eye on when the kids get home, when packages are delivered or whether any of your neighbors are porch pirates.
But not all video doorbells are made equal. Some are better at night vision, while others provide higher-quality daytime recordings. Tap or click for secret uses for your home security system.
Need to set up a security system? Hire the pros
DIY projects have gotten incredibly popular during the pandemic. Folks are posting videos of themselves crafting slime — and sometimes spilling it everywhere. Some people are creating their own robots, NFTs and more.
If you're still using iOS 14, you need to update right now
The best way to protect your data from hackers is to keep your devices updated. With every operating system iteration, new features are added together with security patches. Need further proof? Here’s how 26 million PC logins were stolen.
Security tip: How to set up a VPN on all your devices
If you’re security and privacy-conscious, you need to take all the steps you can to keep yourself safe online. That starts with the right VPN.
Not using a VPN is like leaving your front door unlocked every time you go out. Sure, nothing might happen for years, but when something does happen, it’s devastating.
Is Best Buy's $200 annual membership worth it? Here's everything you get
Any machine, device or gadget you buy is eventually going to need maintenance and repairs. The internet provides help in forums, expert videos and replacement user manuals. But people don’t always have the time or knowledge to fix their stuff. There’s always someone out there who can help, but finding the right person at the right price can be a challenge.
Windows 11 update not on your PC yet? Here's how to skip the line
After months of the usual teasers and hype from Microsoft, Windows 11 has officially arrived. Microsoft’s latest operating system has relocated the Start menu and taskbar, added features lifted from gaming consoles, packed in more widgets and given Android users the ability to run apps on their PC.
Review: Smart locks from August, Yale
Just about everything in your home, from your thermostat to your refrigerator and coffee table, has been given the smart home treatment. While many smart home gadgets are meant for convenience, others are designed with security in mind.
6 essential features you need in a home security system
Most people who don’t have home security systems yet are probably still planning on installing one in the future. How many times have you left your home thinking, “I wish I had some kind of protection system in place?”
Stalkerware software: Here's what happens when someone snoops on your phone
As a parent, the security of your children is of utmost importance. If you have teenagers, you might have been tempted to install software on their mobile phones so that you can keep track of them. There are several legitimate apps available for both iOS and Android.
Find your router's password fast (then change it!)
If you’re like most people, the day you got your router, you installed it (or had it installed) and soon after got busy using it. Just minutes after you plugged it in, it was working perfectly.
Suddenly, you and your family were logging long hours on the internet with all your gadgets. Those hours turned into days, then weeks, then months. You browse the internet, stream TV shows and movies, and chat it up on social media without a care in the world. Tap or click here to see if your neighbors are stealing your Wi-Fi and what to do about it.
Ring's cheapest doorbell yet is here – How does it stack up?
When the doorbell rings, you can never be sure who is waiting for you on the other side. If you are not expecting a visitor, it would be great to see who’s knocking without having to go right up to the door.
Ring specializes in making doorbells that integrate with motion cameras, so you can take a peek before answering. The great thing about Ring is that the doorbell’s camera feed can be viewed on your smartphone from anywhere in the world. Not only can you keep track of deliveries, but you can also record porch pirates in the act. Tap or click for clever ways to stop porch pirates.
Google Chrome will stop running on millions of Windows PCs
Google Chrome has approximately 2.9 billion users, making it the most popular web browser of all time. Unfortunately, a big chunk of these users may be unable to access new versions of Chrome after support runs out for their operating system of choice.