The check might be in the mail. Yep, Ring is settling a class-action lawsuit.
Buying new smart home tech? Take this step to keep creeps out
Whenever you buy a new smart device, the first thing to do is change the default password. Without this critical step, hackers could break into your doorbells, thermostats or security cameras. They could turn up the home’s temperature until it’s boiling — or scream death threats over a microphone.
Families are especially at risk. One hacker broke into a Mississippi family’s Ring security camera, then taunted their eight-year-old daughter with creepy music. Check your indoor cameras now to protect your family.
Bottom line: All connected tech has some inherent risk, including the devices we buy to keep us safe. By the end of this guide, you’ll know how to secure your smart home devices before hackers turn them against you.
It’s disturbingly easy to break into smart devices
All a digital burglar has to do is open up a public search engine called Shodan. This site lets strangers see through your unprotected devices. Anyone can find, let’s say, your unsecured baby monitors and spy on your children. Terrifying.
Hackers can even use your smart devices to steal your private information, including your:
- Address.
- Date of birth.
- Usernames and passwords.
- Email address.
- Phone number.
With this information, a detailed profile of you can be put together. Scammers can use this info to launch elaborate phishing schemes — or steal your identity to commit crimes in your name. Here are three surefire signs someone stole your identity.
How to secure your smart home
Luckily, you can thwart digital burglars by following this three-step strategy:
- Always change the default login on any device you install and connect to your network: Sticking with the factory password makes it easy for hackers to break in.
- When you buy secondhand devices, make sure they’re properly reset to their factory settings: If you don’t, the previous owner could still access the device.
- Use two-factor authentication: With 2FA, anyone trying to access the devices will have to enter a security code sent to your phone or through an authenticator app. This extra step makes it nearly impossible for hackers to break in. Here’s everything you need to know about 2FA.
Don’t forget to update your software, too. That way, you’ll stay up-to-date with the latest security patches. While you’re at it, update your PC, too.
Sick of hateful comments? Use this free tool to block them on your favorite sites
The internet is, arguably, the meanest place to hang out in the world. Hateful comments, harmful content, and other unsavory behavior all await. Where can you turn when it all gets to be just a bit too much to handle? Tap or click here to filter certain words from your Facebook feed.
5-minute phone privacy check
In just five minutes, you can secure your phone from unwanted snooping. Follow these quick steps to stay safe.
Roughly 20% of people reuse passwords across multiple sites, and many don’t know the difference between a good password and bad password. You’re smarter than that — you read this newsletter! Remember, using three random words in a password is more secure than selecting random letters and numbers.
What does the “P” in HTTP stand for? Is it … A.) Protocol, B.) Platform, C.) Portal or D.) Princess?
Microsoft Edge just got better - Try this new feature
Google Chrome is the most popular web browser out there. Most people use Chrome because it’s convenient and easy to navigate — but it’s hardly the most secure option.
Chrome has been known to collect tons of data on you — even when it’s not supposed to. For more privacy, others choose Mozilla Firefox or options like DuckDuckGo.
9 subscription services actually worth the cash
Do you know off the top of your head just how many subscription services you’re signed up for? Everyone has a favorite platform they rely on for entertainment or news, but if you check your bank statement, you might be surprised at how much they all add up. And they probably aren’t all worth the money.
ADT hides a major cyber hack
How secure is your home or business? ADT just revealed a data breach but is keeping quiet about the timing and details of what was stolen. Plus, the risks of storing cash in Cash App, AI classes for seniors, and a crucial Amazon Echo security setting you should check.
You see a vacay at a too-good-to-be-true discount online. After booking, you get a call about an “extra charge” to finalize your trip. All fake! Protect yourself: Verify unknown companies at the BBB website, look for “https://” in the site URL (it means the website is secure), and use a credit card so you can dispute phony charges.
Find out key information about your router with this site
Routers are an intrinsic part of every home’s internet. It helps make sure all your devices are connected and online. However, this device can be one of the most unsecured pieces of tech in your house. If you forget the information associated with your router, you won’t be able to change the settings to protect yourself—until now. This cool site can help you retrieve that information so you and your family can stay safe online.