virtual private network Archives

Tech Optimizer

December 2, 2025

This Surfshark One Cyber Monday Deal Protects Your Privacy and Security With VPN, Antivirus and More for $2 a Month

Many consumers are concerned about online data safety during Cyber Monday shopping. Antivirus software is crucial for maintaining a virus-free environment, and a VPN service can enhance privacy. Surfshark is offering a Cyber Monday promotion that includes antivirus software, allowing customers to secure a two-year subscription to Surfshark One for a reduced price, along with three complimentary months. This package includes Surfshark VPN, Antivirus, Search, Alert, and Alternative ID products. An upgraded option, Surfshark One Plus, includes additional features like Incogni, a data removal service, also available at a discounted rate. CNET's Attila Tomaschek praised Surfshark for its speed, extensive server network, and user-friendly interface. Surfshark recently raised prices by 33% but has improved services, including faster speeds. The current promotion offers an 88% discount on the Surfshark One deal, making it significantly cheaper than the standard price for 27 months. This promotion allows consumers to secure premium privacy protection at a reduced price.

AppWizard

November 4, 2025

Application Gatekeeping: An Ever-Expanding Pathway to Internet

Apple removed the ICEBlock app following threats from the U.S. government, and Google subsequently took similar action. Google plans to launch a global program requiring developers to register, pay a fee, and provide personal information verified by government-issued ID to have their apps available on certified Android devices. This program has raised concerns about its impact on smaller developers, many of whom lack government IDs and may be deterred from participating in the Android ecosystem. F-Droid has warned that this central registration system could harm the developer community and stifle innovation. Google is also facing legal challenges in the Epic Games v. Google lawsuit, which aims to prevent it from penalizing developers who use competing app stores. The Electronic Frontier Foundation has expressed concerns about these developments.

Tech Optimizer

October 14, 2025

Ethernet vs Wi-Fi security comparison reveals surprising results for home users seeking protection

Ethernet relies on a physical cable for direct connection to the router, reducing the risk of data interception, while Wi-Fi transmits data wirelessly, making it more vulnerable to unauthorized access. A well-secured Wi-Fi network can be more secure than a poorly managed Ethernet setup. The security of a network depends on factors such as router configuration, software updates, and the number of connected devices. To enhance internet security, users should employ strong passwords, enable the latest encryption, keep router firmware updated, review connected devices, install antivirus software, and consider using a VPN for sensitive tasks.

Tech Optimizer

October 10, 2025

McAfee+ Ultimate identity theft protection review: Everything you need to stay safe online

McAfee+ Ultimate offers a comprehensive suite for identity protection and credit monitoring, integrating McAfee's antivirus capabilities with services from TransUnion. The yearly cost is for individuals and 9 for families, with no monthly payment option. It includes monitoring across three credit bureaus (TransUnion, Equifax, Experian), daily credit reports from TransUnion, and annual reports from the others, utilizing the VantageScore 3.0 model. Features include a credit-improvement simulator, a credit-lock button, antivirus software, a VPN, and a password manager. Identity theft coverage is up to million, with an additional 0,000 for ransomware. The service provides data breach alerts and monitoring for payday loans and medical records but does not cover alerts for sex offenders or cyberbullying. McAfee+ Ultimate has a user-friendly interface, allowing easy access to credit scores and reports, and demonstrated a 99.96% success rate in malware detection during testing. Alerts are sent via text, email, and the service interface for potential breaches and significant credit changes, but it lacks alerts for property title changes or cyberbullying incidents.

AppWizard

October 10, 2025

Fake VPN and streaming app infects thousands of Android devices, drains bank accounts

Cybersecurity experts have warned Android users about the Mobdro Pro IP TV + VPN application, which has been identified as a means to distribute the Klopatra banking trojan. This trojan, first discovered in August 2025, is being spread through two active botnets, primarily targeting users in Spain and Italy, with nearly 3,000 confirmed infections. Klopatra allows cybercriminals complete remote access to infected devices, enabling them to read messages, steal login credentials, and execute fraudulent transactions. The malware exploits Android Accessibility Services permissions to carry out its activities. Mobdro Pro IP TV + VPN is distributed outside the Google Play Store, increasing users' vulnerability to such threats. Additionally, a VPN Transparency Report 2025 highlighted security risks in several popular legitimate VPN applications, indicating that some misrepresent their security protocols and may not provide adequate protection.

AppWizard

October 10, 2025

Popular VPN app can empty your bank accounts, security experts warn

Cybersecurity researchers have identified a dangerous Android malware disguised as the Mobdro Pro IP TV + VPN app, which has already affected over 3,000 devices in Europe. The malware, known as Klopatra, gains remote control of infected devices by exploiting Android Accessibility Services, allowing cybercriminals to access users' bank accounts. The app prompts users to grant permissions that facilitate the attack, and it is suspected to originate from a Turkish-speaking group. Cleafy estimates around 1,000 individuals have been affected, raising concerns that other criminal organizations may replicate this scheme, complicating detection efforts.

Tech Optimizer

September 4, 2025

Don’t use your home Wi-Fi before fixing certain security risks

Home Wi-Fi networks connect various devices and are essential for online activities, but they can be vulnerable due to weak security settings and outdated equipment. Hackers often target residential networks, which typically have weaker defenses than corporate systems. Compromised networks can lead to the interception of sensitive information. To enhance Wi-Fi security, it is important to use a modern router with strong encryption (WPA3 or WPA2), regularly update firmware, change default login passwords, and create a strong Wi-Fi password of at least 12 to 16 characters. Monitoring connected devices and disabling Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) can help prevent unauthorized access. Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can protect online privacy, while antivirus software can safeguard connected devices from malware. Taking these steps can significantly improve home Wi-Fi security.

Tech Optimizer

August 27, 2025

Do I get a free VPN with my Norton antivirus?

The Norton brand is known for its antivirus protection and includes a Virtual Private Network (VPN) tool in select Norton antivirus packages. The entry-level Norton Antivirus Plus offers essential antivirus protection but does not include a VPN, while the Norton 360 bundle includes the Norton VPN as a core feature. Choosing a Norton 360 bundle is often more economical than purchasing antivirus and VPN services separately and includes additional features like parental controls and dark web monitoring. The Norton 360 plans include: - Norton 360 Standard: Features a password manager, 2GB of cloud backup, SafeCam alerts, AI-powered scam detection, and a smart firewall. - Norton 360 Deluxe: Offers 50GB of cloud storage, dark web monitoring, and parental controls. - Norton 360 with LifeLock: Combines Norton’s security features with LifeLock’s identity protection services, including credit monitoring and a million-dollar protection package. The Norton VPN features include split tunneling, Double VPN, and IP Rotation, and it has shown strong performance in unblocking restricted applications and streaming services while maintaining user-friendly navigation and speed.

Tech Optimizer

August 25, 2025

Save A$60 On Your First Year of Norton 360 Deluxe

Norton 360 Deluxe is currently available for A.99, reduced from A9.99, offering a 40% discount for a year's subscription. It includes antivirus protection for up to three devices and features such as Norton Secure VPN, SafeCam for PC, Password Manager, Parental Controls, Dark Web Monitoring, 50GB of Cloud Storage, and Genie Scam Protection. Norton 360 Deluxe has been recognized as an Editors’ Choice winner by PCMag.

Tech Optimizer

August 20, 2025

Norton 360 adds Genie AI scam protection to all packages

Norton has launched Genie Scam Protection, integrating artificial intelligence to enhance its security software against AI-driven scams. Genie includes features like a Scam Assistant for on-demand security guidance and the ability to detect scams in SMS messages before they are opened. It scans text messages, emails, and images for signs of fraudulent activity and is included in all Norton 360 packages, starting with the AntiVirus Plus offering. The entry-level Norton AntiVirus Plus package provides antivirus protection, a password manager, and Genie scam protection for a single device. Higher-tier Norton 360 packages offer additional features such as secure cloud backups, a VPN, dark web monitoring, enhanced parental controls, and real-time credit monitoring. Promotional pricing is currently available for Norton 360 packages, with discounts of at least 50% for the first year. All subscriptions include Genie anti-scam protection, reflecting Norton’s commitment to combating evolving AI-driven threats.