identity theft Archives

Winsage

April 3, 2025

Microsoft Warns 240 Million Windows Users—Stop Using Your PC

Microsoft's support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, prompting the company to advise users with ineligible PCs—estimated to be as high as 240 million—to recycle their devices and upgrade to Windows 11. Microsoft warns that unsupported devices will be vulnerable to data breaches and cyber threats without security updates. There has been an increase in upgrades to Windows 11 as the deadline approaches, but options for those unable to upgrade are limited. Microsoft encourages responsible recycling and offers trade-in programs, though these may not provide significant financial returns. Users can also consider paid extended support for an additional 12 months.

Tech Optimizer

April 2, 2025

Shield up to 5 devices from the evil internet with McAfee Total Protection

McAfee Total Protection offers a two-year subscription for less than , covering up to five Apple devices, significantly reduced from the regular price of 9. The subscription includes AI-powered antivirus protection, a virtual private network, web protection, identity theft protection, and personalized safety education. It also features a password manager, personal data exposure protection, and credit monitoring. This limited-time offer allows stacking of codes for up to ten years of coverage, but the software can only be added to a maximum of five devices at once.

Winsage

April 2, 2025

Microsoft’s Free Upgrade Deadline—Millions Of Windows Users Suddenly Move

Microsoft has made significant changes to Windows, including the elimination of passwords and new account access methods, while warning users about risks like data breaches and identity theft. Windows 10 users face an urgent transition as support ends in six months, with a free upgrade to Windows 11 available for eligible PCs. Recent data shows a 4% increase in Windows 10 users switching to Windows 11, with Windows 10's market share dropping to 54% and Windows 11 rising to over 40%. However, security hardware requirements may prevent some users from upgrading, potentially affecting around 240 million PCs. Users can purchase a 12-month extension for home use, while business users may incur higher fees for extended support. After the support deadline, Microsoft will stop providing updates and security fixes for Windows 10, increasing cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Transitioning to Windows 11 is crucial for users to access the latest security features.

Tech Optimizer

March 31, 2025

Add an extra layer of protection to your devices with this all-in-one security solution

McAfee is offering a two-year subscription to its Total Protection service for a reduced price of .99, down from 9.98. This service secures up to five devices, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. Key features include AI-powered antivirus protection, a VPN for private browsing, web protection against harmful sites, identity theft protection, personalized security education, a password manager, personal data exposure protection, and credit monitoring services.

Tech Optimizer

March 25, 2025

What the Tech? Avoiding malware threats

The ABC 6 News Team reports on the Infostealer malware, which has compromised over 2 billion credentials by using fake websites to trick users into providing sensitive information. Infostealer targets searches for free software, cracked software, game cheats, and activation tools, employing tactics such as search engine ads, SEO manipulation, social media promotions, and typosquatting to lure victims. Once installed, Infostealer can steal passwords, credit card information, cryptocurrency wallet data, and personal information. To mitigate risks, users are advised to download software from reputable sources, be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true, install robust antivirus software, enable ad blockers, verify URLs, use multi-factor authentication, keep software updated, and stay informed about cybersecurity threats. Additionally, users can check if their email addresses or passwords have been involved in data breaches at www.haveibeenpwned.com.

Winsage

March 20, 2025

Microsoft’s Free Windows Upgrade—‘Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late’

Microsoft has warned the 800 million Windows 10 users about significant risks, including data breaches and identity theft, if they do not upgrade to Windows 11. Users received emails urging them to check upgrade eligibility or consider new hardware, emphasizing that lack of security updates increases vulnerability to malware and cyberattacks. The support for Windows 10 will officially end on October 14, raising concerns about exploitation of unsupported PCs. Microsoft highlights the importance of security updates and promotes the enhanced security features of Windows 11, stating that the upgrade is complimentary for eligible PCs running licensed Windows 10.

Tech Optimizer

March 20, 2025

What the Tech: Stolen passwords

Infostealer is a type of malware that has stolen over a billion credentials, posing significant risks such as identity theft and financial fraud. It targets users through specific search terms related to free software, cracked software, game cheats, and activation tools. Cybercriminals use tactics like search engine ads, SEO manipulation, social media promotions, and typosquatting to direct users to malicious sites. Once infected, Infostealer can steal saved passwords, credit card information, cryptocurrency wallet data, and personal information. To mitigate risks, individuals should download software from reputable sources, be cautious of too-good-to-be-true offers, install robust antivirus software, enable ad blockers, verify URLs, use multi-factor authentication, keep software updated, and educate themselves about cybersecurity threats. Additionally, checking for compromised email addresses or passwords at www.haveibeenpwned.com is recommended.

Tech Optimizer

March 19, 2025

TotalAV vs Surfshark VPN: Features Comparison Guide

eSecurity Planet maintains editorial independence and may earn revenue through affiliate links. TotalAV is an antivirus solution with basic VPN functionality, while Surfshark specializes in VPN services. TotalAV: - Overall Rating: 2.8/5 - Pricing: 3.7/5 - Features: 2.7/5 - Usability: 3.7/5 - Security: 2/5 - Customer Support: 2.1/5 - Offers essential antivirus protection and basic VPN features, but lacks the capabilities of a dedicated VPN service. Surfshark: - Overall Rating: 4.5/5 - Pricing: 4.8/5 - Features: 4.3/5 - Usability: 5/5 - Security: 4.5/5 - Customer Support: 3.7/5 - Provides advanced features like multihop connections and IP address rotation, with positive customer feedback despite some support challenges. Pricing Comparison: - TotalAV: Premium plan for the first year; renews at a higher rate. - Surfshark: Starter plan at .49/month billed annually. Feature Comparison: - TotalAV includes a kill switch and split tunneling; lacks rotating IP addresses and multi-hop VPN. - Surfshark includes all features of TotalAV plus advanced capabilities. Usability: - TotalAV supports Windows, Mac, iOS, Android; lacks extensive user documentation. - Surfshark supports multiple operating systems and offers training resources. Security: - TotalAV's encryption and audit policies are unclear. - Surfshark uses AES-256 encryption and has undergone multiple independent audits. Customer Support: - TotalAV offers email support; lacks live chat and community forums. - Surfshark provides 24/7 live chat and email support, along with an official Reddit community. Alternatives: - NordVPN starts at .99/month and includes essential and advanced features. - ExpressVPN offers comprehensive features at .32/month. Evaluation Methodology: The comparison was based on pricing, features, usability, security, and customer support.

Tech Optimizer

March 16, 2025

5 common mistakes people make when shopping for antivirus software

Shopping for antivirus software is complicated due to evolving threats like artificial intelligence, deepfakes, and sophisticated phishing scams. Many users rely on pre-installed antivirus applications, which may not meet their needs. Experts note that the antivirus market is changing, and poor selection can lead to data breaches and identity theft. Brand recognition influences consumer choices, with many opting for well-known names like Norton and McAfee, though lesser-known options like Bitdefender Total Security may offer better performance. Some mainstream providers struggle to address modern threats, necessitating a more comprehensive approach to cybersecurity. Choosing antivirus software based solely on price can result in inadequate protection. Consumers should prioritize features that meet their specific needs rather than simply looking for the cheapest or most expensive options. Higher prices do not guarantee better quality, and thorough research is essential. Consumers may also mistakenly choose antivirus products based on the number of add-ons, which may not enhance security. Many extras, like password managers, may not be necessary, and users should evaluate whether additional features align with their needs. Lastly, insufficient research can lead to vulnerabilities, especially with bundled security applications on new devices. For example, Norton 360 Antivirus offers AI-driven protection against phishing scams. Understanding individual needs is crucial for selecting the right antivirus software.

Tech Optimizer

March 14, 2025

Webroot Total Protection

Webroot Total Protection includes antivirus capabilities, identity theft protection, file backup, parental controls, and a VPN application. The pricing starts at .99 annually for five devices and one identity, with a family plan extending coverage to ten devices and ten identities. The installation process requires users to create or log into an account, and the backup system can only be installed on one device. The user interface has been redesigned for improved readability. Some features, such as the Utilities page and Secure Erase, have been removed, and the firewall relies on Windows for external threat defense. Webroot employs a journal-and-rollback system for malware detection, achieving high scores in independent testing. The suite includes a simplified tune-up scan and a vulnerability scan. The Mac version mirrors the Windows interface but lacks certain features. Identity protection is provided in partnership with Allstate, but it is less comprehensive than competing services. The backup solution is limited to one device, and the integrated VPN service encrypts data during online activities. Parental controls have been introduced but are considered ineffective.