browser extension Archives

Tech Optimizer

November 15, 2025

Double savings: not 1 but 2 top deals on outstanding VPNs with antivirus built in

VPN providers are offering enticing Black Friday deals, making it a good time for consumers to explore options. Surfshark is highlighted for its value, offering subscription plans that include Surfshark Antivirus, which features webcam protection, scheduled virus scans, and real-time scanning. Surfshark's CleanWeb feature blocks ads, trackers, and malware, and the antivirus received a 'Top Product' certification from AV-Test in 2024. Surfshark's pricing includes the Starter plan at .99 per month, the One plan at .19, and the One+ plan at .19. Norton VPN has improved its product and offers Plus and Ultimate plans with antivirus support and an AI-powered Scam Protection feature. Specific Black Friday deals for Norton VPN are not yet announced, but there is an exclusive discount for TechRadar users in select countries.

Winsage

October 14, 2025

10 open-source Windows apps I can’t live without – and they’re all free

Open-source software offers robust alternatives for Windows users, with notable applications including: 1. LibreOffice: A comprehensive office suite that supports MS Office formats and is free to download. 2. Flow Launcher: A customizable file search and application launcher that is free to use. 3. Duplicati: A zero-trust backup solution that allows data backup to various destinations, available for free for personal use. 4. Nextcloud: An open-source platform for file storage and collaboration that can be hosted locally and is free to install. 5. Franz: An application that consolidates multiple messaging platforms into a single interface, free to use. 6. YAZB: A tool that creates custom top bars for Windows, providing system information and quick access controls, available for free. 7. File Converter: A tool for converting and compressing files through a right-click context menu, free to install. 8. Bitwarden: An open-source password manager with a web browser extension, free to use with optional paid features. 9. AutoHotKey: An automation scripting language for defining hotkeys and streamlining tasks, available for free. 10. Ollama: An open-source AI application that allows interaction with various models, free to install and use.

Tech Optimizer

September 13, 2025

Researchers Uncover Undetectable Malware Draining Crypto Browser Wallets

A new strain of malware called ModStealer has emerged, capable of evading antivirus detection while targeting cryptocurrency wallets on Windows, Linux, and macOS. It has reportedly gone undetected by major antivirus engines for nearly a month and is being disseminated through deceptive job recruitment ads aimed at developers. ModStealer scans for browser-based cryptocurrency wallet extensions, system credentials, and digital certificates, exfiltrating the data to remote Command and Control servers. On macOS, it uses a persistence method to run automatically at startup, disguising itself as a benign program. It combines persistence with strong obfuscation techniques, making it resilient against traditional security measures. The malware poses significant risks to cryptocurrency users and platforms, with potential compromises of private keys and wallet data leading to asset losses and large-scale exploits.

Tech Optimizer

September 12, 2025

Modstealer malware bypasses antivirus, targets crypto wallets

A newly identified strain of malware called ModStealer can bypass antivirus protections to steal data from cryptocurrency wallets on Windows, Linux, and macOS. It operated undetected for nearly a month, infiltrating systems through misleading job advertisements targeting software developers. ModStealer has multi-platform support and a stealthy execution chain, allowing it to launch simultaneous attacks across various operating systems. Upon execution, it scans for browser-based cryptocurrency wallet extensions, system credentials, and digital certificates. On macOS, it disguises itself as a background helper program to ensure continuous operation. Indicators of potential ModStealer infections include a hidden file named “.sysupdater.dat,” outbound connections to suspicious servers, unexpected background processes, unusual behavior from wallet extensions, and unauthorized access attempts to digital certificates. The malware poses significant risks to individual users by compromising private keys and seed phrases, and it could lead to large-scale thefts in the cryptocurrency industry. To protect against ModStealer, users are advised to use hardware wallets, enable multi-factor authentication, update antivirus software, avoid suspicious job ads, monitor startup processes, back up seed phrases offline, and use separate devices for transactions.

Tech Optimizer

September 8, 2025

ESET review

ESET Home Security offers robust antivirus protection, particularly appealing to budget-conscious consumers. The Premium tier features a gamer mode, parental filters, virus scanning tools, and an antitheft service. However, it lacks a VPN client, which is available in the more expensive ESET Ultimate version. The Premium version is priced lower than competitors like Norton 360 Deluxe and McAfee+ Premium, with costs rising after the first year. ESET Premium provides comprehensive antivirus features, including quick and custom scans, ThreatSense technology, Deep Behavior Inspection, Host Intrusion Protection System (HIPS), and Ransomware Shield. It also offers defenses against botnets and network threats, with quick scans completing in about five minutes. Additional features include a parental filter, password manager, browser protections, file encryption, and an anti-theft system. The user interface has been criticized for being outdated and complex, with limited support options available.

AppWizard

September 8, 2025

These are my 6 favorite self-hosted apps I use on my Android phone

Megan Ellis explores self-hosting solutions that offer cost savings and enhanced control over personal data. She has discovered various services that integrate with Android applications, improving her user experience through remote management, push notifications, and regular backups. Immich allows users to back up photos directly to their own servers, offering a sleek interface and features for folder selection and background syncing, although it can be slow at times. Paperless-ngx is an open-source document management platform that simplifies document uploads through its mobile app, making organization more efficient. Vikunja is an open-source to-do list app that provides push notifications but requires sideloading. It serves as an appealing alternative to TickTick for task management. Home Assistant is a self-hosted smart home automation platform that offers extensive functionality, though it may face integration challenges with smart devices. Karakeep is a self-hosted bookmarking solution that syncs across devices, enhancing the ability to save important content efficiently. Donetick is an app for managing chores and personal tasks, allowing automation of task scheduling based on completion dates, though it requires sideloading and lacks HTTP support. Ellis is also exploring other self-hosted services like Jellyfin and Nextcloud, valuing their cross-platform access despite the setup challenges.

Tech Optimizer

August 23, 2025

Kerberus Acquires Refract to Build First Crypto Antivirus

Kerberus Cyber Security acquired Refract, the developer of the Pocket Universe browser extension, in a seven-figure deal confirmed on August 16, 2025. This acquisition aims to create the first dedicated antivirus solution for the cryptocurrency industry. Kerberus plans to enhance its existing Sentinel3 browser extension and expand its security framework to cover all Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) chains and Solana. The development of a minimal viable product is expected to take at least four months, with Pocket Universe’s co-founders transitioning to advisory roles. Kerberus emphasizes user privacy by not requesting access to private keys or user funds and warns against potential antivirus scams in the crypto space.

Tech Optimizer

August 22, 2025

Kerberus’ Strategic Acquisition of Pocket Universe and the Rise of Crypto Antivirus Infrastructure: A First-Mover Advantage in a High-Growth Niche

Kerberus acquired Pocket Universe on August 16, 2025, in a seven-figure deal to enhance security for cryptocurrency users by developing a browser-level antivirus solution. This acquisition addresses the emerging threat of browser-based malware, which operates without user interaction, and aims to establish a cohesive platform that intercepts malicious code. Kerberus plans to integrate Pocket Universe's fraud-prevention capabilities into its Sentinel3 browser extension, extending protection across Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) chains and Solana. The company has 200,000 weekly active users and is set to launch a minimal viable product (MVP) for its antivirus solution within four months. Strategic partnerships with Pocket Universe's co-founders and Ran Neuner of Onchain Capital further bolster Kerberus' credibility in the crypto security sector.

Tech Optimizer

August 20, 2025

I tested the best antivirus software for Windows: Here’s what I’d use to protect my PC

Windows Security is a free antivirus program pre-installed on every Windows PC, offering solid protection. Bitdefender provides a comprehensive antivirus solution with a yearly subscription. Malwarebytes is recommended as the top antivirus choice for Windows users, featuring a user-friendly interface and both free and paid versions. TotalAV is an affordable option with a built-in VPN and system tune-up tool. McAfee Total Protection offers extensive features, including identity theft coverage. Avast One is designed for gamers, providing a Do Not Disturb mode. uBlock Origin is an ad blocker that enhances browser security, while Brave is a secure web browser with built-in tracking and ad blocking features.

Tech Optimizer

August 1, 2025

Best Alternative to AVG Antivirus of 2025

Avira is a strong alternative to AVG in the antivirus software market, offering a powerful free version with features like a VPN, identity theft protection, and performance optimization tools. Its user interface is intuitive, allowing for a quick "Smart Scan" that addresses security, privacy, and performance. Avira achieves a 99.3% threat blocking rate with minimal false positives, while AVG matches this rate but has more false positives. Avira's cloud-based scanning is faster and less resource-intensive than AVG's. It includes a web browser extension for protection against phishing and ads, and offers customizable firewall options. Avira's paid plans include a password manager with unlimited storage and device syncing, and an unlimited VPN service, while AVG requires separate purchases for these features. Avira's pricing starts with a free version, and its paid plans range from €21.95 to €59.95 annually for one to five devices, respectively. Both providers offer good customer support, but Avira's knowledge base is more extensive.