📶 Goodnight, kids! If yours sneak back onto their phones, tablets and computers at night, disable the Wi‑Fi after a specific time. You can do this for all your devices or just certain ones, like your kiddo’s iPad. If you use an app to control your internet, pop in there. Otherwise, log into your router’s web interface. Steps here!
3 reasons you shouldn't go another day without antivirus software
Photo © Chatree Bamrung | Dreamstime.com
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.
Home security 101: Where to put cameras
© Chakrapong Worathat | Dreamstime.com
When it comes to home security, camera placement is everything. Tech gadgets can be finicky, so their location can make a difference. For example, here are the best places to put your router for better internet speeds.
Have a TP-Link router? This is serious
They’re linked to security risks and cyberattacks. I’ll show you how to protect your data before replacing yours.
🇨🇳 Chinese-owned TP-Link routers may be getting banned: This is big — about 65% of American homes and businesses use a TP-Link router, along with the U.S. Department of Defense and other federal agencies. TP-Link has been tied to Chinese cyberattacks and lets security flaws slide, making them a big target. And they may be selling their routers for less than it costs to make them — a monopoly no-no. I told you this was coming.
Avoid a Wi-Fi traffic jam: Most routers let you switch channels for a clearer signal. Log into your router’s online interface. (Check the manual or online guide if you’re not sure how.) Look for Wireless Settings and find the Channel option. Channels 1, 6 or 11 are typically less congested. Reboot your router and you’re good to go.
Avoid a Wi-Fi traffic jam: Most routers let you switch channels for a clearer signal. Log into your router’s online interface. Look for Wireless Settings and find the Channel option. Channels 1, 6 or 11 are typically less congested. Reboot your router and you’re good to go.
What to know about DeepSeek
Did China just win the AI race? Meet a little-known Chinese startup called DeepSeek. Their AI models are outperforming big names like OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini — not just in price but in performance — triggering a global tech selloff. And the surprises don’t stop there. The U.S. government is eyeing another piece of Chinese tech for a potential ban: your Wi-Fi router.
January 11th, 2025
Do you own a TP-Link router? Lawmakers are questioning its ties to China. Plus, my chat with Noland Arbaugh, the first Neuralink recipient, on controlling computers with his mind. Also, Meta shuts down millions of scam accounts, and Gen Z brings back retro cameras.
Is your TP-Link router getting banned?
TP-Link routers, used by 65% of American homes and even the Department of Defense, are under fire for ties to Chinese cyberattacks and ignored security flaws. Also: Steve Harvey’s not dead (thanks, AI), smart glasses might finally be cool, and OpenAI’s chatbot hotline.
August 24th, 2024
Locked out of Facebook? Getting back in is tough, and that’s on purpose. Plus, missing persons scams on social media, your router spying on you, astronauts trapped on the ISS, and a guy making $14,200/month answering questions online!
Is your Wi-Fi router spying for China?
Federal officials are raising red flags over TP-Link, warning their products might be linked to Chinese espionage. Plus, Redbox files for bankruptcy, Taylor Swift drops cassettes, and Apple’s next iPhone features AI.
Signs you should replace your router
It’s one of the most important tech items in your house. Is yours vulnerable to hacks? Here’s one way to tell.
Spies want in on your router
Is yours at risk? Hackers’ new side hustle is charging Chinese and Russian spies and scammers for access to old home routers so they can launch denial-of-service (DoS) attacks. Plus, Google blocks romance writer, worst airlines for luggage, and Microsoft gets hacked.
May 4th, 2024
Teen girls face a new threat at school: deepfakes. Want a new car? Before you buy an EV, know the big battery costs. Plus, hackers fight for your old router, AM radio faces extinction, and Dropbox data breach.
Bonus episode: The Kim Komando Show, March 30
Sarah from Portland, Oregon, has been stalked on and off for years. Now, she has a sinking feeling that her estranged brother, who works in IT, is behind it. Plus, use an older router? Be careful, hackers are getting smarter and you’re at risk.
March 30th, 2024
Kate Middleton conspiracies are out of control
Use an older router? Be careful, hackers are getting smarter and you’re at risk. There’s a new app all the rage out of Communist China — know about it before you kids do. Plus, the scary story of a woman being stalked by her brother.
Smartphone creepers, social media hate & what's ahead for Starlink
Plus, old-school TV is fading away — here’s why Gen Z is switching off. Caller Stephen had his data swiped, and I lend a helping hand. I also delve into spotting fake news, picking the best spot for your router, and quieting down those noisy group notifications.
Why your Wi-Fi stinks – and how to fix it
Do you remember the last time you updated your router? Here’s why you should, in 60 seconds.
Your router's dirty data secrets, Tesla’s Cybertruck debut & organizing photo secrets
Plus, is your info on the Dark Web? I’ll explain how to check. Also, I give my trusty advice to a gal sick of pricey cable. And Instagram’s big update, smart sprinklers can save you big bucks and the best tech for caregivers. For those of you in rural areas, slick ways to boost your Wi-Fi.