virtual private networks Archives

AppWizard

December 14, 2025

4 Android Apps You Should Remove Immediately to Boost Speed & Free Storage

Android users often face storage issues that can lead to decreased performance. Tech experts recommend considering the removal of the following apps to free up space and improve speed: 1. Facebook: Known for being a significant storage hog due to its background activity, including refreshing data, caching videos, and tracking location, which can accumulate several gigabytes of cached content. 2. Bloatware (Preinstalled Apps): These unnecessary apps can slow down devices and strain battery life and processor speed, consuming more resources than they save. 3. TikTok: This app aggressively caches video content and runs multiple background processes, which can quickly consume storage and increase memory pressure, especially on older devices. 4. Free VPNs: While providing secure internet access, free VPNs can create additional background processes and may sell browsing data, negatively impacting device performance if not used regularly.

Tech Optimizer

December 7, 2025

9 Apps You Should Never Install On Windows 11

John McAfee's antivirus software struggles with poor performance and questionable business practices, relying on financial arrangements with manufacturers for its prevalence. Users often face persistent pop-ups for additional services, leading to high subscription costs without significant value. Norton, another antivirus solution, is criticized for slowing down system performance and not providing better protection than Windows Defender. ExpressVPN has shifted focus from privacy to marketing after its acquisition, raising concerns about user data security. Honey, a shopping extension, tracks personal data and may mislead users with affiliate links. CCleaner has become bloated since its acquisition by Avast and is no longer effective on Windows 11. WiFi speed booster software often fails to improve performance and may collect user data. Crypto mining software poses risks as many applications are malware. Razer Synapse often causes performance issues for gamers, while NVIDIA's application can negatively impact system performance and is not as beneficial as alternatives.

AppWizard

November 26, 2025

Android users warned to delete these fake apps after Google alarm

Android users are facing a threat from counterfeit VPN applications that disguise themselves as privacy-enhancing tools but contain malware capable of compromising personal information and security. These fake VPNs mimic reputable brands and use misleading advertisements to appear legitimate. Once installed, they can steal passwords, messages, and financial data, and may even lock devices with ransomware. Google advises users to download VPNs only from trusted sources, look for verification badges, review app permissions, be cautious of free offers, research developers, and avoid scare tactics in marketing. Legitimate VPNs should not request access to personal contacts or photos and should only require network-related permissions.

Tech Optimizer

November 25, 2025

The Black Friday 2025 Cybersecurity, IT, VPN, & Antivirus Deals

As Black Friday 2025 approaches, various promotions in digital security and online education are being offered. Password Manager Deals: - Passwork: 50% discount on all plans. - LastPass: 50% off Premium & Families plans, 10% off Teams, 20% off Business, and 30% off Business Max Plans. - Dashlane: 60% discount on all personal plans. VPN Deals: - NordVPN: Up to 77% off a 2-year subscription, basic plan at .99/month (74% discount). - SurfShark: Up to 88% off with three free months for a 2-year subscription. - ProtonVPN: Up to 70% off, depending on subscription length. Antivirus Software Deals: - Malwarebytes: 50% off 1-year or 2-year subscriptions. - Avast: Up to 70% off various antivirus software options. - ESET: 50% off ESET Home antivirus software. - Bitdefender: 30% off subscriptions to GravityZone products. Personal Information Privacy Deals: - Incogni: 55% off personal information removal plans with coupon code BFDEAL25. - DeleteMe: 30% off privacy protection plans with coupon code BFCM30OFF25. IT and Security Courses Deals: - PuralSight: 60% off individual plans with coupon code BLACKFRIDAY60. - Udemy: Courses discounted to .99 during Cyber Week. - ISC2: 10% off cybersecurity training and certificates from November 28 to December 5. Security & IT Black Friday Deals: - Firewalla: Sitewide discounts and additional discounts on devices. - Hak5: Deep discounts during Hacked November Sale. - Yubico: 30% off YubiKey 5 NFC and 5C NFC security keys.

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.

Tech Optimizer

October 28, 2025

Don’t wait for Black Friday — our favorite antivirus software is up to 80% off right now

Antivirus coverage across all devices is crucial for digital security. Discounts on antivirus protection can range from 50% to 80%, especially during the holiday shopping season and Cybersecurity Awareness Month. Current deals include Norton 360 Premium, McAfee Total Protection, and Bitdefender Total Security, which offer extensive malware protection and support multiple devices. These packages also include additional features like VPNs, password managers, and identity protection services.

Tech Optimizer

October 25, 2025

Best Antivirus Software for 2025 to Protect Your PC and Mobile Devices

Smartphones are targets for cybercriminals, facing threats like phishing and malware, making antivirus software essential for protecting personal information. Many antivirus programs, such as McAfee and Norton, offer multi-device subscriptions for convenient coverage across platforms. Free antivirus options may meet basic needs but lack advanced features found in premium versions, such as ransomware defense and VPNs. For low-spec desktops, lightweight antivirus options like Avast and Bitdefender provide strong protection without slowing down performance. By 2025, leading antivirus programs are expected to include built-in defenses against ransomware and phishing attacks, reflecting the need for ongoing protection against evolving cyber threats.

Tech Optimizer

October 7, 2025

These are the best Amazon Prime Day antivirus deals on packages for five devices (or more)

Amazon is offering significant discounts on antivirus software packages during its Big Prime Day Deals, available for two days. These packages, which support five to twenty devices, include Norton 360 Premium, McAfee Total Protection, and Bitdefender Total Security. They provide protection against malware and additional features like webcam protection, hardened browsers, and ransomware rollback. The antivirus solutions are compatible with various operating systems.

AppWizard

October 1, 2025

Here’s why VPN interest has surged 7,000% in 2025

Demand for VPN services is increasing significantly, with a projected surge expected by 2025. Recent research indicates a 7000% increase in VPN usage this year, driven by new laws and social media restrictions in various countries. Notable increases in VPN interest include: - Nepal: +2,892% (social media bans amid civil unrest) - United Kingdom: +1,987% (online age verification requirement) - United States: +827% (social media bans) - Iran: +707% (internet restrictions due to protests) - France: +570% (online age verification requirement) - Turkey: +188% (social media bans) - India: +72% (Pakistan content ban) In the U.S., interest rose due to a temporary TikTok ban in January 2025, with ongoing discussions about mandatory ID verification for adult content access in some states. Historically, VPNs have been essential for bypassing censorship and maintaining communication in conflict regions, as seen in Nepal and Iran.

AppWizard

September 18, 2025

The Tor Project quietly launches a beta Android VPN – and looks for testers

The Tor Project has launched a VPN app for Android users, currently in beta, aimed at enhancing online privacy and circumventing censorship. The app is available on the Google Play Store and operates under an open-source model. It routes user traffic through the Tor network to conceal real IP addresses and features split tunneling, allowing users to select specific applications for Tor traffic. The app is built on advanced infrastructure using Arti, the Tor Project's next-generation implementation, and includes built-in bridges to disguise Tor traffic. Users are cautioned against using the beta version if they face severe surveillance threats, as it is primarily a testing platform.