A study by Proton found tracker code associated with companies in China and Russia in many of the most downloaded free Android games in the US and Europe.
A keylogger captures every keystroke made on a device and sends that information to an external source. In 2025, infostealer malware, including keyloggers, resulted in the theft of 642.4 million credentials from 13.2 million infections globally. In Australia, approximately 30,000 banking passwords were compromised between 2021 and 2025 due to this malware. The Australian Cyber Security Centre reported over 42,500 calls related to credential theft in one year, a 16% increase. Four main malware families dominate the landscape, with LummaC2 accounting for nearly 60% of credentials linked to infostealers in 2026. Keyloggers can be detected through signs such as typing lag, unexpected antivirus notifications, new browser extensions, and unexplained spikes in outbound data usage. Detection and removal steps include checking running processes, auditing startup programs, reviewing installed programs, running antivirus scans, and resetting passwords from a clean device. Keyloggers can infiltrate systems via phishing emails, malicious attachments, or compromised software downloads. Mobile devices can also be targeted by keyloggers disguised as legitimate apps.
ESG reporting standards are becoming increasingly important in mobile technology, affecting various aspects such as data management, material sourcing, energy consumption, privacy, supply chain dynamics, and product accountability. The lifecycle of mobile devices involves raw material sourcing, component manufacturing, device assembly, shipping, marketing, sales, updates, repairs, trade-ins, and disposal. Companies must understand ESG standards to create coherent sustainability narratives and may need to disclose supplier practices, carbon emissions, and governance documentation when partnering with larger firms.
Consumers are now asking more questions about the longevity of software updates, repairability, data collection, packaging design, and the accountability of product creators. The rise of connected devices complicates ESG reporting due to extended product lifecycles and the need for ongoing software support. Companies should track product lifespan estimates, warranty data, repair trends, and update schedules to improve product quality and ESG reporting credibility.
Emerging tech companies can start their ESG journey by cataloging product claims, consolidating evidence, designating ownership of records, and reviewing product lifecycle information. Global sustainability frameworks exist but may not align with consumer needs for straightforward product information. Successful mobile tech companies will need to bridge formal reporting requirements with accessible product-level communication. Trust and transparency in practices will increasingly influence consumer choices in mobile technology.
Avast Free Antivirus is recognized as the best free antivirus solution for Windows in 2026, achieving a perfect score from AV-TEST. It operates on the same engine as paid versions, providing comprehensive protection. Other notable free antivirus options include Bitdefender Antivirus Free, which is efficient for older systems; Microsoft Defender, a built-in option with solid protection; AVG AntiVirus Free, suited for older hardware; Avira Free Security, which includes additional tools; and Malwarebytes Free, best for cleaning infections. Each product generates revenue through upselling or data collection. Avast scored 99.78% in detection tests, while Bitdefender achieved 97.6%, and Microsoft Defender reached 99.93%. AVG matched Avast with a 99.97% protection rate, and Avira recorded 99.96%. Malwarebytes had a detection rate of 99.57%. Kaspersky is noted as a product to avoid due to misleading trial offers.
Iranian state-affiliated cyber actors are targeting dissidents, activists, and journalists using fake AI applications, counterfeit antivirus tools, and fabricated MRI scan results, primarily through a spyware family known as CHOSEN BRICK, which is designed for Windows systems. This campaign has been active since at least 2025 and affects individuals globally, including in the UK, US, and Netherlands. The malware establishes persistence via the Windows Registry Run key and communicates through Telegram, utilizing unique Bot IDs for each victim. CHOSEN BRICK is capable of extensive data collection, including capturing screenshots, recording audio, and stealing email content. Personal information from victims has been found on pro-Iranian leak sites, increasing harassment risks. Security measures should include monitoring for suspicious Registry entries and unusual communications, while users are advised to avoid unsolicited software installations and keep their systems updated. The FBI refers to this malware family as HEAVYGRAM.
LG asserts that its smart TVs do not secretly record or transmit user conversations, clarifying that listening for a wake word does not mean recording conversations. Audio without the wake word is discarded locally and not sent to LG servers. The company uses technology that listens for a specific wake word and processes audio only after recognition. LG's Automatic Content Recognition (ACR) technology, which enhances user experience, relies on audio fingerprinting and requires user consent to activate. Users can disable ACR in TV settings. This privacy debate follows a previous incident involving unsolicited promotional pop-ups from LG monitors, which led to intervention from Microsoft.
Android privacy tools allow users to control camera access, microphone use, location permissions, and app activity, but they only protect information managed on the device or connected services. A digital footprint extends beyond the device, with personal information remaining accessible through search results, social media profiles, and data broker listings even after permissions are changed. To manage this footprint, users should identify publicly visible information, review old accounts, and delete unnecessary records.
Simply deleting an Android app does not erase the associated account, which may retain personal data. Users should actively close unused online accounts to maintain digital hygiene. Data brokers publish personal information that cannot be removed through Android privacy settings, requiring users to follow an opt-out process to remove their data.
While Android privacy settings are important, they do not eliminate external records. Data breaches require vigilance, including changing compromised credentials and monitoring for suspicious activity. Removing the source of information is more effective than just eliminating search results, and legal rights may exist in some regions for personal data removal.
Completely erasing a digital footprint is rarely feasible due to public records and the persistence of past posts. The goal should be to minimize irrelevant content while retaining useful accounts. Users should begin by deleting information they control, then address data brokers and public profiles.
Gemini is Google's latest digital assistant, designed for a more conversational interaction compared to the classic Google Assistant. Users may prefer Google Assistant for its simplicity and efficiency in handling routine tasks like setting reminders and controlling smart home devices. Gemini offers advanced capabilities for complex tasks but can feel excessive for everyday use. Users can revert to Google Assistant easily if desired.
To stop Gemini's data collection, users can adjust settings in the Gemini app, but Google retains chat data for up to 72 hours. To uninstall the Gemini app, users must navigate to the main Settings menu, go to Apps, and either disable or uninstall it. Samsung Galaxy users may need to adjust their power button settings to avoid AI interactions.
There is a divide between casual Windows users and engaged enthusiasts, with passive users often accepting default settings that contribute to system bloat. Passive users enable telemetry and promotional content by not customizing their installations, while active users take steps to enhance privacy and performance. Microsoft interprets user inaction as approval for unwanted features, leading to an accumulation of bloatware and unnecessary updates. The Connected User Experiences and Telemetry service collects user data, justifying the inclusion of features like Copilot, which many users may not want. Users face challenges in maintaining control over their systems, often needing technical knowledge to opt out of unwanted features. Microsoft's feedback system is inadequate, interpreting silence as consent rather than a lack of interest, making it difficult for users to effect meaningful change.
Microsoft has over 1.4 billion active devices each month, making it a target for security vulnerabilities. Users can enhance their security using built-in features without third-party software. Key security measures include:
- Windows Hello: Enables secure login via PIN or biometric methods. Activation steps: Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options > Select method > Set up.
- Windows Firewall: Protects against malicious internet traffic. Activation steps: Settings > Privacy & security > Windows Security > Firewall & network protection > Toggle on Microsoft Defender Firewall for Public, Domain, and Private networks.
- Microsoft Defender: Pre-installed antivirus solution. Ensure it is operational by enabling Real-time protection and Controlled folder access. Activation steps: Settings > Privacy & security > Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Manage settings.
- Microsoft Account: Linking a Microsoft account provides benefits like cross-device syncing and advanced security features. Steps to link: Settings > Accounts > Your info > Sign in with a Microsoft account.
- Device Encryption: Protects sensitive information using BitLocker. Activation steps: Settings > Privacy & security > Device encryption > Toggle on.
- Find My Device: Allows users to locate their device if lost. Activation steps: Settings > Privacy & security > Location > Toggle on Location services > Find my device > Toggle on Find my device.
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