security Archives

Malware warning: Red flags your computer is under attack

It’s Computer Security Day, and there’s no better time to remind you malware is lurking everywhere. From phishing emails to unsuspecting ads, just one wrong click can compromise your personal info or infect your devices.

Don’t panic! Knowing how to spot the early warning signs can save you a world of trouble. Let’s make your devices malware-free zones.

I saw the sign … and it slowed down my computer

🚩 Sluggish performance: Does your computer seem like it’s running so‑o‑o‑o slowly? Most malware hogs your system’s resources. Start by checking for too many open tabs or outdated software. Still slow? It’s time to dig deeper.

🚩 Pop-up pandemonium: Random pop-ups are a big red flag. They might be ads or flashing warnings saying your system’s infected. Rule No. 1: Don’t click them. That’ll only lead to more trouble.

🚩 Mystery programs: Malware can lead to other sneaky software installed on your device. Go through the apps installed on your computer, phone or other device, and look for anything unfamiliar.

🚩 Hijacked browser settings: Did your homepage or search engine suddenly change? It could be malware trying to redirect you to sketchy sites. Fix this by removing any extensions and changing the default search page in your browser.

🚩 Disabled firewall: If your firewall turns off mysteriously, malware might be covering its tracks. To check your firewall settings:

On Windows: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Firewall & network protection.
On Mac: Go to System Settings > Network > Firewall.

🚩 Skyrocketing data usage: A sluggish connection or unexplained data spikes could mean your machine is sending data to who-knows-where. To check:

On Windows: Open Task Manager > App History and look at the Network column.
On Mac: Open the Activity Monitor app > View > Dock Icon > Show Network Usage.

Don’t wait for the worst to happen

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Are your smart devices tracking too much?

Your smartwatch is great for tracking steps, but have you ever thought about where all that personal data actually goes?

From sleep patterns to calorie intake, it’s like a digital diary — and it’s worth billions to insurance companies, marketing outfits, advertisers and, of course, hackers. Don’t panic! I’ll walk you through how to lock down your privacy.

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Best Cyber Monday deals

🪄 I did the digging so you don’t have to!

50% off clean floors? Yes, please! This voice- or app-controlled Shark robotic vacuum is a deal ($299.99, 50% off). It makes an easy gift for anyone who loves spotless spaces and doesn’t want to do the work (or doesn’t have the time).
Salon style at home: Darling, you look marvelous! This Revlon one-step volumizer ($31.75, 55% off) dries and styles hair at the same time, giving it volume quickly and easily. It’s also perfect for traveling!
Wrap her feet in cozy luxury: These fuzzy slippers ($15.99, 56% off) with memory foam will have her feeling like she’s walking on clouds, keeping her feet toasty and supported.
Santa, I’d use this: This lightweight heated jacket delivers up to 10 hours of adjustable warmth, and it even warms your hands, too. Grab it for men or women ($104.99, 38% off). It’s perfect for chilly commutes, walks, outdoor work or freezing offices.
HEYDUDE! Yup, the comfy shoes he’ll wear all the time are deeply discounted for a limited time ($38.99, 41% off).
Rev up his style: This quality, stylish leather jacket ($134.38, 77% off) is the ultimate year-round staple, ideal for layering from fall to spring. It’s so nice!
Brighten their space: This Amazon Echo Spot smart speaker and color-changing smart bulb bundle ($44.99, 51% off) lets you play music, get the news and ask Alexa set the mood for you, with 16 colors and schedules. Perfect for any age, really!
Up to 60% off Amazon devices: Whether it’s a kid’s tablet, Fire TV Stick or outdoor security cam, this is the secret Cyber Monday link to use!

👉 Shop all Cyber Monday deals: Gifts under $10 | Electronics | Toys and games | Cooking and baking | All deals

We may receive a commission when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.

Laptops expire, too: Before you buy, search for that exact model on endoflife.date. If it’s already at its end of life, or EOL, move on. That means it’s not going to get any more security updates and isn’t safe to use. If it’s close to its EOL, you can do better: Check out our latest laptop picks.

An allowance for grown-ups: Social Security is upgrading its login system and ditching mySocialSecurity usernames and passwords. Using the mySocialSecurity site? You’ll need to create a new login ID for Login.gov. If you already have a Login.gov account or an ID.me login, you’re good to go. Yeah, it’s confusing, but what do you expect from the government?

Antivirus isn't just for your computer - Here's why you should protect your smartphone, too

You probably know that antivirus software is essential for your computer. Without it, you’re browsing without protection, exposing yourself to ransomware, viruses, Trojans, spyware and countless other threats. But your computer isn’t the only gadget that needs antivirus protection.

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Porch pirates are getting smarter – here's how to keep your packages safe

Black Friday and Cyber Monday are less than a week away, and I’m planning to finish up the rest of my shopping list. I’m also watching my deliveries and so should you.

Porch pirates are going all out to steal your stuff this year. One thief even disguised themself as a bag of trash to swipe someone’s orders. That’s pretty funny, but what’s next sure isn’t.

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Russian hackers at work: They exploited two security flaws in web browsers Firefox and Tor to plant malware. Mozilla and Microsoft patched the issues, so update ASAP. Restart your browser (or browsers), then, in Windows, go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and hit Check for updates.

A criminal’s best asset is his lie ability: A moron from Missouri thought he could land a job by hacking into businesses and offering them cybersecurity help. Spoiler: It didn’t end well. Nicholas Kloster was arrested after he hacked into a health club and bragged online about taking over their security cameras and lowering his membership to $1. The FBI and local police were not amused.

📶 Let go: D-Link’s VPN routers have hit their end-of-life, making it an easy way for hackers to enter your network. No security patches are coming. If cybercriminals get in, they can spy on your activity and steal your passwords or credit card info. Unsure if you’re affected? Contact D-Link.

This crime shot up 400% – watch out

To keep you and your money safe, I make it a point to always let you know about the spreading scams, from crypto catfishing to AI deepfakes. I bet you’re going to be surprised by this news: The crime that shot up 400% last year is old-school check fraud.

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How to make your phone feel brand-new again

One of the best parts of getting a new phone is how fresh it feels inside and out. The screen is scratch-free, your storage is empty, and the phone is zippy, no matter what. And the battery life? Oh, buddy.

The clock starts ticking the moment you take your new phone out of its box. Let’s give yours that fresh-from-the-factory feel again.

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Protect all your devices with the best antivirus software

When it comes to antivirus software, there’s no better choice than our sponsor, TotalAV. For one, it’s available for your phone and computer, so all your devices are protected.

This security suite protects all your devices from the scariest online threats, such as ransomware, spyware, adware and (of course) malware. Its WebShield browser extension provides advanced protection against malicious websites and even blocks bad guys from stealing your data.

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5 genius tech tips you’ll use all the time

I read every comment you leave at the end of this newsletter, and one theme always stands out: You want to know all the hidden things your tech can do! Lucky for you, uncovering those “I had no idea!” moments is my superpower. I’m here to teach you the things you didn’t even know you were missing!

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Protect up to 5 devices from malware, viruses and more - Just $20 for an entire year

There’s nothing wrong with looking for ways to save money. Cutting back on things like your cable or electric bill is just good business. But you need to be smart about where to cut corners. Protecting your devices and critical files should not be skimped with all the cybercriminals and digital threats lurking.

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ExpressVPN amps up security with game-changing features

The VPN game has been seriously upgraded! My sponsor, ExpressVPN, recently rolled out a slew of feature-packed updates. ExpressVPN pushes the envelope to keep your digital life locked down, from ad-blockers to a beefed-up server network.

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3 security steps every small business needs to take right now

Business accounts can be hacked as easily as personal accounts. Imagine all your hard work being held at ransom by a hacker or your data falling into the hands of someone who can sell it to the competition.

You need to secure your business as best you can, and here are three crucial tips to get started. This tip is brought to you by our sponsor, NetSuite.

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Security step: How to make sure your LinkedIn profile is verified

LinkedIn is the world’s biggest social media platform for workers and can help you reach new career heights. You just need to ensure you have a well-written, impressive, and, most of all, credible LinkedIn profile. Tap or click here for a few ways to make the most of LinkedIn.

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5 common antivirus mistakes to avoid at all costs

Computer viruses can ruin everything. Systems that once worked well grind to a halt as your computer struggles to recover. That’s why antivirus programs are non-negotiable: They keep your digital life safe if you avoid the most common mistakes.

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What makes a good VPN? 3 features to look for before you spend a dime

What you do online should be your business. That’s not the world we live in, though. Your internet service provider can see every site you visit, even in incognito mode, and your data is routinely packaged up and sold to the highest bidder.

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