data removal Archives

Tech Optimizer

June 3, 2025

Malwarebytes Premium Security review

Malwarebytes, founded in 2004 by Marcin Kleczynski, is an independent cybersecurity company that provides effective malware protection globally. The Malwarebytes Premium Security suite includes antivirus, phishing and identity protection, and an unlimited VPN powered by Mullvad. Pricing for the one-year license for a single device is .99, while a five-device license costs .99, and a two-year plan is priced at .98. The Premium Security Ultimate plan offers full identity protection and credit monitoring for .99 for the first year, with renewal at 9.99. A limited free version is available that detects and removes existing threats but lacks real-time protection. The app features a straightforward design with a clear dashboard, prioritizing user experience. Malwarebytes focuses on efficient scanning of commonly infected areas, completing test scans in 13 minutes. However, it does not automatically scan removable drives and lacks a warning system for password-protected files. Independent lab testing is infrequent, but Malwarebytes has received an AVLab 'Product of the Year' award and demonstrated strong performance in MRG Effitas assessments. In practical tests, Malwarebytes effectively detected known malware but struggled with behavioral detection against custom ransomware. It includes anti-phishing features, initially blocking 16% of phishing sites, which improved to 62% with the BrowserGuard extension. The unlimited VPN offers encryption and privacy but has limitations in unblocking streaming services. The identity protection feature scans for breaches associated with user email addresses and Social Security Numbers for U.S. users.

Tech Optimizer

May 29, 2025

Windows PCs at risk as new tool disarms built-in security

All modern Windows PCs come with Microsoft Defender, a built-in antivirus solution. A tool called Defendnot can disable Microsoft Defender by tricking Windows into believing another antivirus is active. It uses an undocumented API to register a counterfeit antivirus, which leads to Microsoft Defender being automatically disabled without user notification. Defendnot creates a scheduled task for persistence and allows customization of the antivirus name. It is a successor to a previous project, No-Defender, which was removed due to copyright issues. Currently, Microsoft Defender flags Defendnot as a threat.

Tech Optimizer

March 12, 2025

Malware steals bank cards and passwords from millions of devices

Infostealer malware has become a major cybersecurity threat, with around 25 million users targeted between early 2023 and the end of 2024. These malware variants capture sensitive information, including bank card details and passwords, with nearly 26 million devices affected during this period, resulting in over 2 million unique bank card details leaked. One in every 14 infections compromised bank card data, passwords, and second-factor authentication cookies. In 2024, infections increased significantly, with RisePro's share rising from 1.4% to 22.45% and Stealc from 2.65% to 13.33%. Redline remained the most prevalent infostealer, responsible for 34.36% of infections. By August 2024, an estimated 15.9 million devices had been affected in 2023, increasing to 16.49 million by March 2025. Over 9 million infections were tracked in 2024, with final counts expected to exceed those of 2023. To protect sensitive information, it is recommended to invest in robust antivirus software, use virtual cards for online transactions, set up transaction alerts and spending limits, avoid storing card details in browsers, use strong and unique passwords, and consider personal data removal services.

AppWizard

March 11, 2025

Google tracks Android users before they open apps, report says

A study by D.J. Leith at Trinity College Dublin found that Google begins tracking users on Android devices even before they interact with them, creating at least 14 cookies and trackers without user consent. These tracking mechanisms operate immediately upon device setup and continue to collect data even when the device is idle, following a factory reset. The sign-in process with Google accounts automatically connects users to various preinstalled applications, raising concerns about user autonomy. Notable trackers include the DSID cookie and the Google Android ID, which persist through factory resets. Users face challenges in managing tracking settings, as there is no straightforward way to opt out or delete these tracking elements. Additionally, Google's recent installation of SafetyCore on devices occurred without user consent, while the Results About You tool for managing data removal from Google Search was more positively received.

Tech Optimizer

December 19, 2024

Why Surfshark is the only leading VPN offering a real antivirus

Surfshark is a leading VPN provider that also offers a robust antivirus solution, currently ranked second in the VPN market. Its antivirus features a tri-layered defense mechanism, including traditional scans, real-time protection against Potentially Unwanted Applications (PUAs), and continuous monitoring for threats. Surfshark's antivirus received the "TOP PRODUCT" award from AV-TEST in 2024, achieving scores of 6/6 for Protection, 5.5/6 for Performance, and 6/6 for Usability, along with a perfect score of 10/10 in the Advanced Threat Protection test. It boasts a 100% detection rate against advanced 0-day malware attacks. The antivirus is included in Surfshark's One and One+ plans, starting at .49 per month, with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Surfshark also ranks as the best budget-friendly VPN, with speeds exceeding 950 Mbps using the WireGuard protocol and supports protection across an unlimited number of devices, though antivirus features are limited to five devices.

Tech Optimizer

December 16, 2024

AI-powered deception: The sneaky macOS malware masquerading as your next video call

Artificial intelligence (AI) is being used by cybercriminals to enhance their scams, exemplified by a malware called Realst that masquerades as video-calling software. This malware targets macOS and Windows users and has been active for about four months. The hackers behind Realst operate under the fake company name "Meetio" and have used various aliases. They employ social engineering tactics, often contacting victims through platforms like Telegram, presenting fraudulent business opportunities, and leading them to download the malware from a deceptive website. Once installed, Realst scans for sensitive information, organizes it, and sends it to a remote server. It can extract credentials from applications like Telegram and web browsers. To protect against such malware, users are advised to verify software sources, be cautious of unexpected contacts, enable two-factor authentication, use strong passwords, keep software updated, and consider personal data removal services.

Tech Optimizer

November 28, 2024

I’m a privacy expert, here’s 5 things I’d buy to stay safe over Black Friday

As the holiday shopping season approaches, consumers can enhance their online security while benefiting from discounts. Black Friday is a key time for purchasing cybersecurity tools to protect against data breaches, malware, and identity theft. 1. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts internet connections, protects user anonymity, and allows access to geo-restricted content. Leading VPN providers are offering discounts this Black Friday. 2. Antivirus software is essential for protection against malware and data breaches. Brands like Norton, Avast, and McAfee are offering reduced prices on their antivirus solutions this Black Friday. 3. A password manager helps users securely store and generate unique passwords, reducing the risk of credential-stuffing attacks. Many VPN services include password managers in their packages. 4. Identity theft and financial fraud are rising, with the FTC reporting over 550,000 cases of identity theft in the first half of 2024. Many antivirus providers now offer identity protection and credit monitoring, with discounts available during Black Friday. 5. Data removal services help individuals reclaim their privacy by requesting the deletion of personal information compiled by data brokers. Many antivirus and VPN providers offer these services, with Black Friday discounts available.

Tech Optimizer

November 18, 2024

Surfshark Black Friday Deals 2024

Surfshark is offering Black Friday deals with discounts of up to 87% on its cybersecurity products, including VPN, antivirus, and data removal services. The company has over 600 servers in the US, providing rapid connection speeds and easy access to US-based content. Surfshark's VPN features include auto-connect, kill switch, split tunneling, unlimited device support, and 24/7 customer support with a 30-day money-back guarantee. In 2023, Surfshark was recognized by Forbes as the "Best VPN for Unlimited Connections" for its unlimited device policy and advanced features. Surfshark also offers an antivirus solution that protects against various digital threats with real-time scanning and customizable security settings. Additionally, Surfshark's Incogni service helps users remove personal information from data brokers and people search sites through an automated five-step process.