VPN Archives

Winsage

July 10, 2025

Microsoft fixes critical wormable Windows flaw (CVE-2025-47981)

Microsoft released patches for 130 vulnerabilities in the July 2025 Patch Tuesday update. Notable vulnerabilities include CVE-2025-49719, an uninitialized memory disclosure in Microsoft SQL Server, and CVE-2025-47981, a wormable remote code execution flaw in Windows. CVE-2025-49719 is assessed as having "unproven" exploit code, while CVE-2025-47981 has a high likelihood of exploitation within 30 days. Other vulnerabilities include CVE-2025-49717, a buffer overflow in SQL Server, and CVE-2025-49704, which allows code injection in SharePoint. Additionally, updates address vulnerabilities in Windows Routing and Remote Access Service (RRAS) and Microsoft Edge, including CVE-2025-6554, which has been actively exploited. Administrators are advised to prioritize patching internet-facing assets and consider additional mitigations for RRAS vulnerabilities.

Tech Optimizer

July 9, 2025

Get protection suite for all your gear with Mcafee AV deal

McAfee Total Protection offers a one-year subscription for .99, providing security for up to five devices across Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android. It features award-winning antivirus software that uses a database of known threats and machine learning for real-time protection, along with a built-in firewall and web protection. The suite includes a VPN based on TunnelBear technology for encrypting internet traffic and masking online identity. It also features identity protection tools like a password manager, credit monitoring, and breach scans. The subscription is currently offered at an 88% discount from its regular price of 9.99. Prices may change, and the offer involves account registration with StackCommerce, which manages user information and provides a commission to BleepingComputer.com for sales.

Tech Optimizer

July 8, 2025

If I was going to buy one thing this Prime Day, I’d choose this insanely cheap antivirus package – and it’s only $25

Amazon Prime Day features significant deals in cybersecurity, including the Norton 360 Premium package, which offers coverage for ten devices. Norton includes anti-scam protection that identifies malicious links, robust malware detection, and parental controls for online safety. It also provides a Secure VPN for encrypting internet traffic and uses Genie AI to monitor the dark web for personal information leaks, notifying users of data breaches. Other Prime Day antivirus options include basic software for single-device protection and family plans with limited device coverage.

AppWizard

July 3, 2025

Russian Authorities Trial Restrictions on Telegram and WhatsApp Ahead of Proposed Messenger Ban

On July 1, Russian authorities began a nationwide trial to restrict access to messaging platforms Telegram and WhatsApp, following President Putin's signing of legislation for a state-controlled "sovereign messenger." Users across Russia reported outages of these services around 11 PM on June 30, with nearly 12,000 outage reports for Telegram and 1,500 for WhatsApp recorded within 24 hours, primarily from the Nizhny Novgorod region and the Republic of Tatarstan. Analysts view this as a "targeted shutdown" in preparation for a potential complete ban, noting that competing platforms did not face similar issues and that access was quickly restored via VPN. This trial follows a law enacted on June 24 for the development of a state-controlled messaging platform under FSB supervision, with plans for features like encrypted chats and digital ID. Additionally, legislation approved earlier in June requires the establishment of a national messaging platform by 2026 to replace foreign applications for official and public use.

Tech Optimizer

July 2, 2025

NordVPN blocks 90% of phishing sites and earns AV-Comparatives certification

NordVPN's Threat Protection Pro feature has successfully blocked 90% of phishing websites in independent testing by AV-Comparatives, making it the only VPN with certified phishing protection. This feature has been recognized for two consecutive years for its effectiveness in detecting phishing attempts, surpassing the 85% threshold required for certification. Threat Protection Pro is available to subscribers of NordVPN Plus, Complete, and Ultra plans, while Basic tier users only have access to a DNS filter. NordVPN has also ranked third among 35 competitors for avoiding online shopping scams in 2024 and achieved a 99.8% malware protection rate according to testing by West Coast Labs.

AppWizard

June 30, 2025

I always install Chrome Beta on all my Android phones; here’s why

Chrome has not integrated support for multiple accounts on Android, unlike other Google applications that have offered this feature since around 2010-2011. Users often resort to installing Chrome Beta or Chrome Dev to manage multiple Google accounts, allowing them to create distinct browsing sessions. Chrome Beta enables users to link different accounts, maintaining separation between personal and work data. Despite being labeled as "beta," it has proven stable for everyday use. However, users face minor inconveniences, such as having to manually copy and paste links from other applications into Chrome Beta. The current Chrome apps limit users to four accounts, leaving those with more needing alternative solutions. Some users also utilize different Chrome apps for varied purposes, enhancing their browsing experience.

Tech Optimizer

June 28, 2025

Norton AntiVirus Plus for Mac

Windows is the primary target for malware attacks, leading to a focus on antivirus applications for the platform, while macOS users have fewer options. Norton AntiVirus Plus for Mac offers robust cross-platform protection and has received perfect scores from independent testing labs, excelling in phishing protection. It is priced at approximately .99 annually for a single license and .99 for a five-license subscription. Norton supports the latest three macOS versions: Sequoia (15), Sonoma (14), and Ventura (13). The Gen stack, a new antivirus engine, consolidates technology from Norton, Avast, and AVG, ensuring consistent performance. Norton achieved a perfect score of 18 points in independent testing, with a 100% detection rate for Mac malware and Windows-specific threats. It offers flexible scanning options, with quick scans completing in 30 seconds and full scans in 27 minutes. Norton has a 100% detection rate for phishing sites and includes a smart firewall and intrusion prevention system. Its password manager offers basic functions but lacks advanced features. Norton Genie is an AI-based scam detection tool integrated into the ecosystem. The software includes performance improvement tools like File Cleanup and Startup Manager, but privacy components require separate purchases.

Tech Optimizer

June 28, 2025

We asked cybersecurity experts to build a privacy toolbox for $10 per month – here’s what they came up with, and more

In the digital landscape, online activities are monitored, leading to targeted advertising, scams, and privacy breaches. Individuals can enhance their digital security through various tools, including VPNs, antivirus software, password managers, secure browsers, encrypted messaging apps, and data removal services. VPNs protect internet traffic through encryption, with options like Mo Harber-Lamond at .91/month, Surfshark starting at .99/month, and ExpressVPN from .99/month. Antivirus software, such as Amber Bouman at .17/month, Norton 360 Deluxe from .17/month, and Malwarebytes Plus from .81/month, defends against malware and phishing. Password managers like Amber Bouman at .99/month, Bitwarden (free), and NordPass from .29/month help secure passwords. Secure browsers include George Phillips (free), Vivaldi (free), and Tor (free), which prioritize user privacy. Encrypted messaging apps like George Phillips (free), Session (free), and Threema (one-time payment) enhance communication security. Data removal services, such as Mo Harber-Lamond at .29/month, Optery from .99/month, and PrivacyBee from .99/month, help reduce personal data exposure. Budget-friendly options for privacy tools can be assembled for under /month, while premium bundles can cost around /month. The highest privacy-focused bundle totals /month, featuring Mullvad VPN, Proton Pass, Tor, and Session. Mobile privacy protection can be achieved for .01/month with NordVPN and Bitdefender Mobile Security. The Proton Unlimited bundle, priced at .99/month, offers an all-in-one solution with various encrypted services.

TrendTechie

June 27, 2025

5 Best VPNs for uTorrent in 2025: Fast & Secure Downloads

ExpressVPN is recommended as the best VPN for torrenting with uTorrent in 2025, offering support for P2P sharing in 105 countries, high download speeds, and strong security features. It includes a Lightway protocol, split tunneling, and Advanced Protection, along with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Other notable VPNs include Private Internet Access, which supports P2P on all servers in 91 countries and offers a SOCKS5 proxy; CyberGhost, with torrent-optimized servers in over 85 countries; NordVPN, known for its advanced security features and support for torrenting in over 110 countries; and Surfshark, which provides automatic IP rotation in 49+ countries. The testing methodology focused on reliable P2P support, strong security measures, fast download speeds, user-friendly apps, and value for money.

Tech Optimizer

June 26, 2025

This Cheap Surfshark VPN + Antivirus Bundle Feels Illegal (But It’s Not)

Surfshark is currently offering a biennial plan for its VPN and antivirus bundle at an 85% discount, reducing the price from .95 per month to .69 per month, totaling for the first 27 months. The package includes three complimentary months of service and a 30-day money-back guarantee. It features unlimited connections, applications for all devices, advanced security features, and customer support. The antivirus component provides real-time protection, webcam safeguards, and scheduled scans. Additional features include Camouflage Mode, MultiHop, Alternative ID, Alert, and Search. Monthly plans are available at higher prices, and the Starter plan does not include antivirus protection.