Ever wondered what your profile photo really says about you? Listen to this one-minute podcast to get honest, anonymous feedback.
Antivirus comparison: Which option is best for your PC or Mac?
If you browse the internet regularly, you can’t get around the fact that you need antivirus software. Viruses can pop up in unexpected places, and you want your device to be able to fight one off if it appears.
Dangerous malware making the rounds is what makes having antivirus software protecting you so critical. But what’s the best antivirus software for a Mac or Windows computer? Keep reading to see the best options.
TotalAV
TotalAV works with Windows PCs, Macs, Android phones and iPhones. TotalAV is Kim’s pick and a sponsor of her national radio show. As far as features go, it stacks up compared to the other names on the market you already know. And you can get a killer discount using Kim’s special offer.
Here are the pros and cons.
The good
- Blocks phishing URLs through its SafeSite extension, which stays up-to-date on the latest malicious phishing URLs.
- Spots, quarantines and eliminates ransomware, viruses, adware, spyware, trojans and more.
- Provides remote firewall access to stop unauthorized access to private data.
- Schedule scans so you don’t have to mark a date on your calendar for your next scan.
- Lets you choose the type of scan you want to run (it’s hassle-free).
- Cleans your disk, app cache and duplicate photos to save disk space.
- Enhances your computer’s performance.
The bad
- No boot-time scanning.
- No email security features.
Get the best security suite and save 85% at TotalAV.com/Kim. That’s just $19 for a year of protection on up to five devices.
Bitdefender Antivirus
Bitdefender Antivirus can be used on Mac and Windows computers, and mobile versions for your smartphone also exist. A $39.99 subscription can cover five devices.
How to score cheap stuff (to keep or resell)
How often do you buy a bunch of stuff online, planning to only keep your favorites? I shop for clothes this way, for sure — and I’m not the only one. Returns cost retailers $743 billion last year.
When a Superhost is super creepy: Airbnb Superhosts have high ratings and low cancellation rates. One in Texas recorded over 2,000 images using security cameras of adults and children sleeping and undressing. He got a year in jail for it.
The 4 big signs you CAN trust refurbished products
Ask anyone who knows me and they’ll say I’m frugal. Heck, you can call me cheap — I won’t be offended.
I’ll let you in a little secret, too. Sometimes, buying used is totally the way to go. There are some things I would only buy new, but tech isn’t one of them. There are some darn good deals out there if you’re willing to find them, from Apple, Amazon, eBay, you name it.
The online review problem is getting worse
If you’re like me, you scan online reviews before adding that big “something” to a shopping cart … choosing a new plumber or finding a place to get sushi — OK, you get the idea. And you probably are like me: Up to 99% of buyers look up online reviews before purchasing, well, anything.
Don’t trust Amazon reviews: More proof is out that Amazon sellers are trading cash and free products for five-star ratings. Some even pay for negative reviews on competitors’ pages. Tips to spot the fakes? Language and timing. Look for multiple reviews using similar phrasing with no details.
Too touchy: 97% of new cars come with touchscreens, which is handy … but distracting. AAA says messing with these screens takes your eyes off the road for 40 seconds. Starting in 2026, cars in Europe will need old-school buttons and levers instead of touchscreens to earn the highest safety ratings. Look for a similar move here in the States, too.
Are Amazon extended warranties worth it, or a scam?
While warranties can last a few years, recalls can occur anytime. Some defects are harmless and only affect functionality, but others can be dangerous.
When you buy a TV, blender or smartphone on Amazon, you’ll see a message asking you to purchase an extended warranty. Sure, you can, but should you?
Don’t make these 5 big mistakes when buying electronics on Amazon
Shopping on Amazon can be a great way to save money on otherwise expensive tech. Tap or click here for quick and easy ways to save money when filling your cart. Just avoid the most common mistakes people make when buying electronics on Amazon.
Booking a flight? Scammers clever trick to con even the savviest travelers
Every new season, occasion, holiday, natural disaster, you name it, scammers work hard. Vacation seasons are one of their favorite times to pounce.
Some in-person criminals might spy that you’re away and break in. Take steps to make sure your home isn’t a target.
Stop iPhone apps from asking you to rate and review once and for all
Apple’s iPhone is more than just a smartphone. It’s more than a camera and portable gaming system. The iPhone has become ingrained in pop culture through sleek design and clever marketing. Some might call it a status symbol. And with prices topping out over a thousand dollars, that statement does ring true.
Watch out for fakes on Walmart, eBay and Amazon
When shopping on Amazon, eBay and Walmart, it’s hard to distinguish between good and bad sellers. Heck, even I’ve bought junk from third-party sellers … companies that use major e-commerce platforms to sell their products.
Scary signs that someone hacked your Amazon account
Returning items to Amazon is easy, but there are always exceptions. Here are four things the retail giant will not take back.
Then again, there’s likely some stuff around your house that Amazon, Target and Walmart are interested in. Trade in your old tech devices for credit.
Avoid these 10 dangerous mistakes when using power strips
You need to charge your phone, and that lamp you’re trying to plug in is too far away from the outlet. So you reach for a power strip to save the day.
But did you know there is a surprisingly long list of ways people misuse power strips? These mistakes lead to electrical shorting, fire hazards and the destruction of appliances.
Top 3 holiday scams you and your loved ones need to know about
‘Tis the season of lights, and you can already see the decorations going up everywhere. If you plan to buy decor online, be careful! Scammers are hitting the market with false ads and lousy merchandise. Tap or click here for holiday decoration scams to watch out for.
Don’t fall for this Uber airport trick - It cost me $20
My ears are always perked for life hacks or time-saving tricks. I like to try them out so you can know whether or not they work. I’m sad to report that a new way to reserve an Uber comes with a $20 fee you may not know about.
Drive for Uber? These drivers fear they've been transporting drugs
Getting around town can be tricky at the best of times. Luckily, a few services are happy to ferry you to your destination. Depending on where you live, Uber might be the undisputed champion.
The company has been so successful that it launched a private delivery service two years ago. Instead of transporting people, Uber Connect offers same-day door-to-door deliveries, just like a regular courier company.
Get this message from an Uber driver? It could add $10 to your trip
If you need to get around town quickly, whether your vehicle is in the shop or on vacation, the easiest way to do that is by catching an Uber. All you have to do is open the app, select your pick-up point and destination, and wait for a ride.