digital footprint Archives

Tech Optimizer

February 20, 2025

Malwarebytes 5.2.7.167

Malwarebytes version 5.xx is a high-performance anti-malware application designed to eliminate sophisticated malware and spyware threats. It employs a combination of proactive and signature-less technologies for enhanced malware prevention, with over 50% of users choosing it as their sole security solution. Key features include a unified user experience across desktop and mobile, modern security and privacy integrations with antivirus and VPN, and the Trusted Advisor feature for real-time insights and protection scores. The latest release, version 5.2.7.167, includes a new component package, usability improvements in localization support, and fixes for various issues. The update is available for download at 408.0 MB, with both free and paid options.

Tech Optimizer

February 19, 2025

Amazon’s Best Tax and Security Duo, TurboTax Deluxe and McAfee Bundle Is 63% Off

Amazon is offering a bundle that includes Intuit TurboTax 2024 Deluxe Federal + State and a 15-month subscription to McAfee Total Protection for three devices at a 63% discount. The bundle costs .99, providing savings of off the regular price. TurboTax 2024 Deluxe allows for five federal e-files and one state return, guiding users through over 375 deductions and credits, and includes an Audit Risk Meter. It can import prior year data and essential forms. McAfee Total Protection 2025 features antivirus protection, secure VPN, password manager, and identity monitoring. Both applications are compatible with PC and Mac, with TurboTax requiring MacOS 13 or later.

Tech Optimizer

February 5, 2025

Everything you need to know about the Surfshark One VPN bundle for Apple

Surfshark One is a comprehensive online privacy solution for Mac users that includes a VPN, antivirus protection, and a leak notification tool. It has been recognized as the top VPN for iPhone in 2025 by AppleInsider. The service offers a 24-month prepayment option at a cost of .69 per month, with an additional three months free, totaling for 27 months. Surfshark VPN provides privacy protection across unlimited devices, includes features like CleanWeb, cookie pop-up blocker, customizable browsing controls, Kill Switch, and Dynamic MultiHop for enhanced encryption. Surfshark Antivirus offers scheduled scans, webcam protection, and regular updates every three hours. Surfshark Search is a private search engine with zero logs, no ads, and no tracking. Surfshark Alert monitors personal data for breaches and provides notifications. The Alternative ID feature generates fake identities for online use to protect users' real information. The entire Surfshark One bundle is available for when prepaid for 24 months.

Winsage

December 14, 2024

Microsoft’s AI Recall Tool Is Still Sucking Up Credit Card and Social Security Numbers

Luigi Mangione, 26, was charged with the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson and was apprehended in Altoona, Pennsylvania, after evading authorities. He was found with counterfeit identification and a 3D-printed firearm. The U.S. government indicted 14 North Korean nationals for fraudulent IT operations aimed at funding the country's nuclear ambitions, generating an estimated million while stealing sensitive information. Microsoft’s AI Recall Tool faced privacy concerns after capturing sensitive data, prompting the company to postpone its launch and enhance security measures. Cleo file-sharing software warned customers about a vulnerability exploited by cybercriminals using malware named Malichus. The U.S. government imposed sanctions on Chinese hackers accused of hijacking thousands of firewalls, targeting critical infrastructure, and offered a million bounty for information leading to their apprehension.

AppWizard

December 12, 2024

Xbox PC app beefs up Steam-competing storefront with hundreds of new games

Microsoft is enhancing its Xbox PC app by adding nearly 400 new games to strengthen its position in the gaming market. The acquisition of Activision Blizzard highlights its commitment to expanding its digital presence. Xbox's content curation manager, Chris Charla, mentioned that the initiative aims to bring all PC games with Xbox features into the Xbox app, with popular titles like Shovel Knight Treasure Trove included. Over 100 of the new titles will support the Xbox Play Anywhere feature, allowing players to enjoy games across both Xbox console and PC. Plans to introduce Android games and microtransactions to the Xbox app have been delayed due to recent court rulings, but Microsoft continues to focus on expanding its offerings.

Winsage

October 7, 2024

How to delete the history lists in Windows Explorer and the taskbar

Windows tracks user behavior through Most Recently Used (MRU) lists, which include recently opened documents, launched programs, and frequently accessed folders. To delete recently opened files and folders, press Win-R, type "recent," and hit OK to access the list in Windows Explorer. Users can delete these entries without affecting the original files. To stop Windows from saving the list, Windows 11 users can adjust settings in Explorer by clicking on the three dots, selecting Options, and unchecking "Show recently used files" and "Show frequently used folders." Windows 10 users can find these options in the View menu. Deleting entries under Recent does not remove all MRU lists; to clear lists in the Windows 11 Start menu, go to Settings > Privacy and security > Activity history and delete the activity history, then uncheck "Save my activity history on this device." Additionally, toggle off "Show recently opened items in Start, Jump Lists, and File Explorer" under Personalization > Start settings.

Tech Optimizer

October 4, 2024

Say goodbye to spam and scams with Surfshark’s alternative ID

Surfshark’s Alternative ID allows users to create a secure, temporary identity for online interactions, generating a disposable email address, phone number, and fictitious name and physical address. This feature helps protect personal information when sharing it online, reducing the risk of spam, scams, and identity theft. It is useful for online shopping, work collaborations, contest entries, and participation in forums without revealing actual details. As of August 2024, the U.S. sends out 8 billion spam emails daily, contributing to a global total of over 162 billion. Data breaches have increased, with notable incidents in 2021 exposing millions of users' personal data. Surfshark’s Alternative ID is available for .49 per month with a subscription.

Tech Optimizer

August 28, 2024

Hurry! One of our favorite antivirus programs is up to 41% off

Bitdefender is offering discounts of up to 41% on various plans during the Labor Day sales. The Bitdefender Ultimate Security package, which protects up to 10 devices across multiple platforms, is available at a reduced price. The Bitdefender Antivirus Plus plan includes features such as real-time scanning, a network threat scanner, a file shredder, and a Safepay browser for secure transactions. The Bitdefender Total Security plan adds support for Macs and mobile devices and includes a system optimizer. This sale represents one of the most significant discounts from Bitdefender, making it a favorable time for consumers to invest in cybersecurity.

AppWizard

August 25, 2024

How to delete a story on Facebook Messenger – Times of India

To delete a story on Messenger, follow these steps: 1. Open the Messenger app. 2. Tap on your profile picture at the top left corner to access your profile. 3. Scroll through your stories to find the one you wish to delete. 4. Press and hold on the story. 5. Select "Delete" or "Remove" from the menu that appears. Once a story is deleted, it cannot be recovered.

Winsage

August 16, 2024

Windows users hit by all-new advanced malware campaign

Criminal enterprises are targeting Chinese businesses using a Remote Access Trojan (RAT) called ValleyRAT, which can take control of infected Windows endpoints. Researchers at FortiGuard identified this malware, which poses a threat to sectors like ecommerce, finance, sales, and management. The initial breach often occurs through phishing tactics, with attackers distributing loaders disguised as Microsoft Office files. Once inside a system, ValleyRAT uses a multi-stage approach to execute components in memory, making detection difficult. The malware can monitor activities and deploy plugins based on the attackers' goals. The group behind these attacks is known as "Silver Fox," which has previously targeted Chinese organizations. In spring 2023, Weibu Online reported efforts to track Silver Fox, which used SEO poisoning to enhance the visibility of their phishing sites. While the origins of Silver Fox are unclear, some experts suggest they may be of Chinese descent. Businesses are advised to keep antivirus systems updated and educate employees about phishing risks to mitigate breaches.