online safety Archives

AppWizard

December 2, 2025

India Orders Messaging Apps to Work Only With Active SIM Cards to Prevent Fraud and Misuse

India's Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has mandated that app-based communication service providers implement measures requiring an active SIM card linked to the user's mobile number. This applies to messaging applications such as WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal, which must comply within 90 days. The amendment to the Telecommunications (Telecom Cyber Security) Rules, 2024, aims to mitigate the misuse of telecommunication identifiers exploited for phishing and scams. The directive requires continuous linkage to the SIM card, and web service instances will log out every six hours, necessitating re-linking via QR code. This is intended to reduce account takeover risks and ensure that accounts are linked to KYC-verified SIMs. The DoT also announced a Mobile Number Validation (MNV) platform to combat identity fraud related to unverified mobile number associations.

Tech Optimizer

December 2, 2025

The best budget antivirus just got cheaper – save 50% for Cyber Monday

Malwarebytes is offering a 50% discount on all its antivirus plans for Cyber Monday, allowing users to protect three devices for a year against various threats. The plans include Standard, Plus, and Ultimate, featuring safe web browsing, scam and ad blockers, security assessments, and data breach notifications. Independent tests confirm its effectiveness in threat detection. The software has quick scanning capabilities with minimal system impact and a user-friendly interface. Upper-tier plans include additional features like an unlimited VPN, firewall, and identity threat protection.

Tech Optimizer

November 22, 2025

Too good to be true? Be careful when looking through those Black Friday offers – they might be a scam

Consumers spent .8 billion online during Black Friday 2024, and more than half (53%) of the Black Friday spam emails could potentially be classified as scams, according to research from Bitdefender. Bitdefender offers tools like Link Checker and Scamio to help users verify the safety of links and scrutinize suspicious messages. It is recommended to have robust antivirus software active to enhance online safety during Black Friday shopping.

AppWizard

November 21, 2025

SRS #255 Ryan Montgomery – Roblox & Minecraft: Hacker Exposes the Larg

Ryan Montgomery is a leading ethical hacker and penetration tester, ranked #1 on TryHackMe's Capture The Flag leaderboard. He is the founder of Pentester, a cybersecurity platform in Boca Raton, Florida, providing tools for vulnerability scanning, data breach detection, and risk mitigation. As Chief Technology Officer of the Sentinel Foundation, he collaborates with law enforcement to combat child exploitation and human trafficking, often infiltrating dark web sites to expose predators. Montgomery has over 19 years of experience in cybersecurity, focusing on ethical hacking, data protection, and online safety. His work aims to protect vulnerable populations and dismantle predatory networks.

Tech Optimizer

November 20, 2025

Amazon’s Early Black Friday Antivirus Deals: Big Savings from Norton, McAfee, Malwarebytes, and more

Amazon has launched Black Friday deals on antivirus software, offering discounts of over 80% on various packages. Current deals include McAfee Total Protection for £12.50, Norton 360 Deluxe for £11.50, McAfee+ Premium for £40, Malwarebytes Premium for £20, and Bitdefender Total Security for £20. These products provide essential protection against malware and hackers, with some offering additional features like identity theft protection and VPNs.

AppWizard

November 8, 2025

‘Roblox must do more to protect kids from sick and twisted freaks,’ Texas attorney general says as he sues Roblox ‘for putting pixel pedophiles and profits’ ahead of kids

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit against Roblox, alleging that the company has violated state and federal online safety laws and misled parents about the dangers of its platform. The lawsuit claims Roblox has marketed itself as a safe platform for children while allowing inappropriate content and predatory behavior. It also accuses Roblox of promoting compulsive purchases through its in-game currency, Robux. The lawsuit references similar legal actions from Louisiana and Kentucky and a criminal investigation in Florida regarding disturbing content on Roblox. In response, Roblox has rejected the claims and highlighted its safety measures, including a "Safety Snapshot" update and partnerships aimed at enhancing child safety online. The company asserts that its safety protocols are more stringent than those of many other platforms and expresses disappointment over the decision to pursue litigation instead of collaboration.

Tech Optimizer

November 5, 2025

Oh no, 73% of Americans think their antivirus alone keeps them safe on public WiFi

A survey by NordVPN found that 73% of Americans incorrectly believe antivirus software alone is enough to protect information on public WiFi, highlighting a misunderstanding of cybersecurity tools. Many respondents also mistakenly think antivirus software can prevent identity theft and phishing attempts. Nearly 33% of participants rely solely on "safe behavior" for online security without using any cybersecurity tools. Additionally, 48% of Americans reported that their personal data has been leaked at some point. The survey sampled individuals aged 18 to 74 from September 2 to September 10, 2025.

Tech Optimizer

November 5, 2025

Improve your digital security with these VPN and antivirus combo deals

VPN applications and antivirus software serve distinct purposes in digital security. Antivirus software protects devices from malware but does not encrypt internet connections, while a VPN encrypts browsing data but does not defend against viruses. Using both tools together is recommended for optimal security. Many leading VPNs now include antivirus features, reducing the need for separate subscriptions. Surfshark has improved its antivirus capabilities and offers a user-friendly interface, while Norton has enhanced its VPN service with new features. Both providers offer trial periods for potential users to test their services.

AppWizard

November 3, 2025

These 12 malicious Android apps are recording your conversations — delete them right now

Twelve Android applications have been found to covertly record user audio in the background, functioning as vehicles for spyware called VajraSpy. This spyware is spread through social engineering tactics on platforms like Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp. Signs of device compromise include unexplained battery drain, unexpected data usage, persistent background activity, frequent microphone prompts, and strange notifications. To protect against such threats, users should be cautious with app permissions, monitor for unusual behavior, use reputable antivirus applications, and limit the number of installed apps.

Tech Optimizer

November 3, 2025

70% of Americans think antivirus will protect their online privacy – here’s the real truth

A survey by NordVPN revealed that while 52% of American consumers claim to use antivirus software daily, many do not understand its fundamental functions. Over a quarter mistakenly believe antivirus software provides complete protection against online threats, which increases their vulnerability to identity theft and cyber threats. Additionally, more than a third of participants reported not using any form of cybersecurity software, despite concerns about data theft. Commonly misunderstood security tools include identity theft protection services, ad and tracker blockers, password managers, firewalls, and VPNs. Misunderstanding these tools can jeopardize online security, as personal information like email addresses and phone numbers can be exploited in phishing attacks. The survey highlighted the need for better cybersecurity education, as misconceptions about antivirus capabilities can leave users exposed to various online threats.