internet security Archives

Tech Optimizer

August 25, 2025

Norton VPN features explained: AI-powered protection, Dark web monitoring, IP Rotation and more

Norton VPN offers a variety of features including: - Integration of artificial intelligence for real-time detection of scams and threats such as phishing, malware, and ransomware. - Cloud storage options ranging from 10GB with the Plus plan to 50GB with the Ultimate plan, providing secure online storage for sensitive data. - Dark web monitoring that scans for users' personal information and alerts them if it surfaces. - A Kill Switch feature that halts internet traffic if the VPN connection drops, protecting users' real IP addresses and unencrypted data. - IP masking that conceals users' real IP addresses and encrypts data before it reaches its destination. - IP rotation that changes the assigned IP address every 30 seconds to complicate tracking attempts. - A Double VPN option that routes data through two servers for enhanced privacy. - A no-log policy ensuring that users' IP addresses, browsing histories, and DNS queries are not logged, with independent audits for validation. - A Norton Password Manager included in select plans for creating and storing complex passwords and securely managing online transactions. - Parental controls and location supervision available with the Ultimate plan, allowing parents to monitor web access and track children's locations.

Tech Optimizer

August 19, 2025

Everyting About Postgres Security

Securing a PostgreSQL database involves following the Center for Internet Security (CIS) benchmarks, which include: 1. Installation and Patches: - Ensure PostgreSQL packages are obtained from authorized repositories, specifically the PostgreSQL Global Development Group (PGDG). - Enable systemd service files for managing PostgreSQL services. - Confirm that the data directory (PGDATA) is initialized properly. 2. Directory and File Permissions: - Set the correct file permissions mask to prevent unauthorized access. 3. Logging and Auditing: - Implement logging for monitoring and auditing purposes. 4. User Access and Authorization: - Review and configure sudo permissions to limit administrative access. 5. Connection and Login: - Avoid specifying passwords in the command line to prevent exposure in shell history or process lists. 6. PostgreSQL Settings: - Understand potential attack vectors and configure runtime parameters accordingly. 7. Replication: - Create a dedicated replication user with limited permissions. 8. Special Configuration Considerations: - Place PostgreSQL subdirectory locations outside the main data directory for enhanced security and manageability.

Tech Optimizer

August 1, 2025

Best Alternative to Microsoft Defender Antivirus of 2025

Microsoft Defender is the default antivirus solution for Windows users, offering real-time alerts and a built-in firewall. TotalAV is a notable alternative that provides a range of features, including an ad blocker, data breach monitoring, and performance optimization tools. Both Microsoft Defender and TotalAV have a protection rate of 99.1%. TotalAV includes features like anti-phishing measures, a VPN service, and a password manager with 256-bit AES encryption. Microsoft Defender is free with Windows, while TotalAV has three pricing tiers: Premium, Internet Security, and Total Security, with prices starting at .95 per year. Microsoft Defender offers basic customer support, while TotalAV provides 24/7 dedicated support and a knowledge base.

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.

Tech Optimizer

July 11, 2025

K7 Antivirus for Mac

K7 AntiVirus for Mac provides basic malware elimination but lacks essential features such as browser-level protection, which is critical for user safety against malicious websites. Its Windows version offers more comprehensive features, including a firewall and exploit protection, while being priced significantly lower than the Mac version. K7's pricing for Mac subscriptions is competitive, with a one-Mac subscription costing less than average market prices. The software is compatible with older macOS versions, dating back to Yosemite (10.10). K7 has not participated in independent testing labs, which limits its evaluation compared to competitors that have received high scores. The installation process is straightforward, and K7 performs full scans quickly, but it does not offer a quick scan option. K7 lacks protection against phishing attacks and does not detect Windows malware, which is a feature present in many competing antivirus solutions.

Tech Optimizer

July 1, 2025

Is McAfee Slowing You Down? Here’s How to Remove It

To uninstall McAfee antivirus software on various operating systems, follow these steps: Windows 11 & 10: 1. Open Settings and navigate to Apps (Installed apps in Windows 11). 2. Search for McAfee and select the product to remove. 3. Click the three-dot menu and select Uninstall. 4. Confirm the uninstallation and restart the computer. Windows 8: 1. Access the Start menu and right-click on the McAfee product. 2. Select Uninstall and confirm in the Programs and Features window. 3. Restart the computer after completion. Windows 7: 1. Open Control Panel and select Add or Remove Programs. 2. Choose the McAfee product and click Add/Remove or Change/Remove. 3. Confirm removal and restart the computer. Using the McAfee Removal Tool: 1. Download the MCPR tool from the McAfee website. 2. Run MCPR.exe and follow the prompts to uninstall. 3. Restart the computer after removal. Mac: 1. Open the Applications folder and launch the McAfee Internet Security Uninstaller. 2. Optionally, select to uninstall SiteAdvisor. 3. Enter the administrator password and complete the uninstallation. For multiple McAfee applications, uninstall them one at a time. For Android, toggle off McAfee Mobile Security in Device admin apps, then delete it from Apps. To uninstall McAfee Safe Connect or LiveSafe, follow similar steps in the Apps settings.

Tech Optimizer

June 18, 2025

AVG Antivirus Review 2025: Robust Free Version but Middling Premium Plans

AVG Antivirus offers a freemium model with a suite of cybersecurity tools. The Ultimate plan scored 7.6/10 overall, with the following breakdown: Performance 9/10, Security 7/10, Customer Support 7/10, Usability 9/10, Value 7/10, and Features 7/10. The free version includes scan scheduling and protection against ransomware, while the paid AVG Internet Security covers up to 10 devices. AVG Ultimate includes a VPN and performance tools but lacks some advanced privacy features found in competitors. Usability testing showed intuitive account navigation, though installation was complex. AVG's antivirus engine achieved a 99.3% online detection rate, but there are concerns about data-sharing policies and past breaches. Customer support includes a knowledge base and 24/7 live chat, but experiences were often unsatisfactory. AVG's pricing is competitive, especially for its free option, but may not meet the needs of users requiring advanced features.

Winsage

May 12, 2025

Warning — Microsoft Windows Defender Can Be Disabled By Hackers

A critical cloud security vulnerability rated 10/10 has been reported for Microsoft users, along with persistent denial of service attacks affecting Windows and warnings about password theft. A new tool called Defendnot has been released, which can disable Windows Defender, Microsoft's antivirus protection. Developed by a security researcher known as es3n1n, Defendnot simplifies the process of bypassing Windows Defender by tricking it into disabling itself. It uses undocumented application programming interfaces (APIs) to convince Windows Defender that another antivirus solution is present, without relying on third-party antivirus code. The availability of Defendnot poses a significant risk, potentially aiding malicious actors.

Tech Optimizer

May 8, 2025

This Is a Mac-Only Antivirus Software, And It Is Your Ultimate Shield Against Hackers (Now 60% Off)

Cyberattacks are increasingly common due to psychological warfare among global powers. Macs are vulnerable to these attacks, necessitating effective antivirus solutions. Intego is the only antivirus software developed specifically for macOS, offering two packages: Mac Internet Security and Mac Premium Bundle. The Mac Internet Security suite includes real-time antivirus protection, a customizable firewall, and anti-phishing features, priced at .99 for one Mac or .99 for three Macs during the first year. The Mac Premium Bundle adds features like system cleanup, parental management, and automated backups, starting at .99 for one Mac or .99 for three Macs in the first year. Intego is designed specifically for Apple computers, providing lightweight, effective protection with minimal impact on system performance. It has a perfect malware detection score and offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. Users can also add a VPN subscription as Intego is associated with CyberGhost and ExpressVPN.

Tech Optimizer

April 29, 2025

Intego Mac Internet Security

PCs were introduced before Apple’s Macintosh, leading to the emergence of PC viruses and the establishment of antivirus companies, with Macintosh protection being less prioritized. Intego focused on Macintosh security from the start, offering Intego Mac Internet Security, which includes a firewall that manages network permissions and defends against external attacks. Intego has been effective against Mac malware, achieving a 99.1% malware detection score in independent lab tests, although it lacks phishing protection, a feature offered by competitors Norton 360 Deluxe and Bitdefender Antivirus Plus. Intego's pricing is competitive, with a standard annual fee of .99 for a single license and .99 for three licenses. A five-device subscription costs .99, while the Mac Premium Bundle starts at .99 annually and includes additional features. A 14-day free trial is available, and free alternatives like Avast and AVG are also on the market. Intego supports older macOS versions back to Mavericks (10.9), but the latest version requires High Sierra (10.13) or later. The installation process for Intego is straightforward, requiring a restart and granting necessary permissions. The main interface includes components for updates, firewall, and antivirus, with user-friendly access to scanning options. Intego has received certification from AV-Comparatives and detected 100% of Windows malware samples in tests. Its quick scan takes about two and a half minutes, while a full system scan takes seven minutes. Intego's Safe Browsing feature checks existing browser protections but lacks a dedicated antiphishing solution. The NetBarrier firewall allows users to classify their network and manage traffic permissions effectively, although it may be complex for some users.