When ransomware cripples a hospital, it’s not the building or equipment that suffers — it’s the patients who are denied.
3 reasons you shouldn't go another day without antivirus software
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If you don’t have antivirus software, you’re putting every internet-connected gadget you own at risk. Something as simple as an unchanged router password can be an entry point for an invader to shut down your phone or even taunt your children through a security camera or smart speaker.
All your devices probably tell a detailed story about your life. Our computers and phones are critically important, from work emails and important documents to family photos. Are your devices truly protected? If you don’t have antivirus software installed, the answer is no.
Not all antivirus programs are created equal. Some won’t give you the comprehensive protection you need in our increasingly dangerous digital world. That’s why we’re sharing three critical reasons to upgrade to Kim’s pick and our sponsor, TotalAV.
1. Cybercrime is getting worse
Ransomware attackers prey on panic and fear once you realize your critical files are inaccessible. While stress is at an all-time high, they demand ridiculous money. In 2020, the average payment cybercriminals demanded was $178,000, Coveware research found.
If that weren’t scary enough, you could still be cheated even if you do pay. You might feel optimistic and hope that the hackers will hold up their end of the bargain once you’ve drained your bank account. Unfortunately, that’s just wishful thinking.
The Sophos State of Ransomware reports that only 56% of data gets restored after paying the ransom. That means you should never pay if a ransomware attack hits your system.
There’s no denying the ubiquity of cybercrime in today’s digital world. To make matters worse, their techniques improve every day.
2. Hackers are getting smarter
Here’s more detail on how ransomware works. Hackers break into your computer, ransack all your files and programs, and encrypt everything. You won’t be able to access any of it. It’s a total violation of your work and your personal life.
Now, criminals have beefed up their techniques. They’ve invented a method called double encryption. That’s when they encrypt your data twice at once.
By layering two types of ransomware on top of one another, they’re tricking you into paying double the original ransomware amount. Let’s say they demand $5,000 to decrypt your data. The hackers lift the first layer, only for you to find the second layer.
Signs your phone or computer is infected with a virus or keylogger
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No matter your device, a hacker with enough gumption and know-how can break in.
Here are surefire ways to know if your system has been hacked and what you can do to fix or prevent it, brought to you by sponsor TotalAV. Your best defense against viruses, keyloggers and other malware? A solid security suite.
293% increase
In email attacks, compared to last year. Email scams exploded in the first half of 2024, including increases in ransomware, malware and phishing attempts. AI might not be helping tech companies turn a profit yet, but it’s sure helping cyber crooks.
Firewall vs. antivirus: What's the difference and do you need both?
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When it comes to protecting yourself online, there’s a lot of confusion. Between VPNs, two-factor authentication, antivirus software and firewalls, there are so many ways to protect yourself that it can be hard to track them all.
Tech security tip: How to remove malware from your phone or computer
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Anyone who regularly browses the internet needs antivirus software. Think of it as a life jacket. It’s there to keep you safe in case of an emergency.
And when malware strikes at your defenses, it’s code red. You’re afraid that you’ll lose everything, your emotions are high and you might not be in the right state of mind to find a good solution. That’s why preventative measures make a world of difference.
Ransomware puts hospitals in danger
The hack on Ascension threw its 140 hospitals and 40 senior facilities into full-blown chaos. Plus, Google’s untrustworthy AI, tech phrases you’ll never use again, and lost sleep from binge-watching.
Ransomware gang has your health data
Yes, the Change Healthcare hack just got worse. Here’s what you need to know. Plus, X charges a $1 fee to post, a foodie side hustle saves a guy $40K, and beware of scary SIM swapping scams.
Ransomware gang grows a heart, easy tech refresh tips, romance scams
Have you ever lost a bag at the airport? Maybe it took a joyride to McDonald’s. Plus, this streaming mistake endangers your computer, a safety tip for dating apps, how a stalker’s own AirTags thwarted him, how to edit a PDF on your iPhone and a weird way to make money.
Smart guns, emoji sex secrets, AirTag car thieves
Stop sharing your phone number — it could put you in danger. Get a second number with this free trick. I’ll also tell you how to get disposable email addresses in a second. Plus, thieves are using AirTags to steal cars, smart handguns are coming and ransomware closed an entire college forever. Also, is crypto dying? Here’s my take.
Get $2 million, TikTok conspiracy, translate 200 languages
You go to the hospital for a life-saving procedure. But a ransomware attack shuts everything down. Here’s your self-defense strategy in case criminals try to take YOU down, too. Plus, you can win $2 million if you beat Apple at its own game. Also, now you can translate 200 languages with Meta’s latest AI. This is life-changing stuff. Don’t miss out — I’ll break it all down in 30 minutes.
Robin Hood ransomware, 'Top Gun' AI, Facebook downgrade
A new kind of ransomware is on the loose, and victims can’t pay to get the encryption key to their files — they must complete three acts of charity. Plus, Val Kilmer is back in “Top Gun: Maverick,” thanks to the help of AI and deepfake technology. And Facebook is losing one of its best security features. We’ll tell you what to do instead to keep your account safe.
Antivirus vs. VPN: Do you need both for online privacy and security?
You probably know that bad guys lurk within every corner of the internet. You have to watch out for spyware, ransomware, phishing attacks, IoT invasions and more. Oh, and don’t forget “zero-click attacks.” Researchers recently discovered hackers used military-grade spyware to remotely access iPhones and even replicate their data.
Traffic trick, YouTube shortcuts, golden privacy tip
Want to erase yourself from the internet? Here’s how. I’ll also tell you how to predict traffic conditions months in advance. You’ll learn about some YouTube keyboard shortcuts you’ll always use and Netflix changes that may come later this year. Also, a piece of history died in a ransomware attack. Here’s what you need to know.
Smart guns, emoji sex secrets, AirTag car thieves
Stop sharing your phone number — it could put you in danger. Get a second number with this free trick. I’ll also tell you how to get disposable email addresses in a second. Plus, thieves are using AirTags to steal cars, smart handguns are coming and ransomware closed an entire college forever. Also, is crypto dying? Here’s my take.
Ransomware closed an entire college forever
Did you know a single ransomware attack permanently shut down a 158-year-old college in Illinois? Here’s what you can learn from this, in 60 seconds.
You'll be shocked by this ransomware trend
How big of a threat is ransomware? Listen to this one-minute podcast for the details on a disturbing trend.
8 signs that your computer has been hacked
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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.
Giving up Kaspersky? Get a year of Kim's antivirus pick for only $19
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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.
Why ransomware attacks are exploding
Did you know anyone can buy a DIY ransomware kit and launch attacks? Listen now to this one-minute episode to find out how it all works.