VPNs Archives

Winsage

December 28, 2024

I’ve been a Windows on Arm user for years — Snapdragon X Elite has changed everything

The author has been using Arm-based computers, specifically an M1 Mac Mini and a Qualcomm Snapdragon-powered Windows two-in-one PC, and has found Apple's silicon consistently impressive while Microsoft's offerings have lagged. In April 2024, Microsoft introduced the Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus chipsets, enhancing the compatibility layer for applications on Windows on Arm through a new emulator called Prism, which matches the efficiency of Apple's Rosetta 2. Testing the Honor MagicBook 14 Art, powered by the Snapdragon X Elite, revealed significant improvements, including native support for previously struggling applications like Google Drive and ExpressVPN. The MagicBook features a 12-core Snapdragon X Elite, offering seamless application launch and multitasking without the random freezes seen in earlier models. Its thermal performance is commendable, achieving around ten hours of usage in "Balanced" mode. The device also includes a Neural Processing Unit for enhanced AI capabilities. Compatibility advancements allow mainstream applications to run natively, and upcoming Windows updates promise to expand this further. The MagicBook 14 Art is priced at approximately ,750, featuring 32GB of RAM, a 1TB SSD, and a detachable webcam for privacy. Despite the progress, the market for Snapdragon X computers remains niche, and Qualcomm's disputes with Arm could impact future sales.

Tech Optimizer

December 28, 2024

Don’t Let the Cyber Bugs Bite! Top Antivirus Software at Low Prices in 2025

The selection of antivirus software involves evaluating features and compatibility beyond just pricing. Key features to consider include: - Real-Time Protection: Software should detect and neutralize threats as they emerge. - Multi-Device Support: Plans should cover multiple devices for seamless protection. - Additional Features: Look for extras like VPNs, password managers, and parental controls. - User-Friendly Interface: The software should be easy to navigate for non-technical users. - Performance Impact: The antivirus should operate efficiently without slowing down the device.

Tech Optimizer

December 24, 2024

How To Secure Your Data in the New Year with Norton VPN

- It is important to assess online security as part of digital well-being. - Norton provides tools to enhance internet security, including VPNs, password managers, and antivirus software. - A VPN (Virtual Private Network) secures online activities, especially on public WiFi, by masking the IP address and minimizing tracking. - Norton offers various VPN plans: VPN Standard, VPN Plus (covers up to five devices and includes protection against viruses and malware), and VPN Ultimate (beneficial for families). - A password manager allows users to maintain one secure password for all accounts and securely stores login information. - Norton’s Password Manager is free with Norton VPN Plus and Norton VPN Ultimate plans and generates complex passwords. - Antivirus software scans devices for malware and viruses, with Norton offering a 100% Virus Protection Promise and dark web scanning for compromised personal information. - The Norton VPN Ultimate plan includes features for managing screen time and blocking inappropriate content for families. - Norton offers up to 54% off the first year for annual plan subscriptions.

Tech Optimizer

December 19, 2024

Why Surfshark is the only leading VPN offering a real antivirus

Surfshark is a leading VPN provider that also offers a robust antivirus solution, currently ranked second in the VPN market. Its antivirus features a tri-layered defense mechanism, including traditional scans, real-time protection against Potentially Unwanted Applications (PUAs), and continuous monitoring for threats. Surfshark's antivirus received the "TOP PRODUCT" award from AV-TEST in 2024, achieving scores of 6/6 for Protection, 5.5/6 for Performance, and 6/6 for Usability, along with a perfect score of 10/10 in the Advanced Threat Protection test. It boasts a 100% detection rate against advanced 0-day malware attacks. The antivirus is included in Surfshark's One and One+ plans, starting at .49 per month, with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Surfshark also ranks as the best budget-friendly VPN, with speeds exceeding 950 Mbps using the WireGuard protocol and supports protection across an unlimited number of devices, though antivirus features are limited to five devices.

Tech Optimizer

December 13, 2024

McAfee Plus review

McAfee, founded in 1987, is a pioneer in cybersecurity, known for introducing antivirus software. McAfee Plus offers features like antivirus protection, real-time threat prevention, a VPN, a password manager, and identity theft protection. The annual subscription is currently priced at .99, down from .99. The McAfee Plus Advanced plan costs .99 annually, offering identity theft coverage up to million, while the Ultimate plan is priced at .99 annually, adding bank account takeover monitoring and up to 0,000 in ransomware coverage. Family plans start at .99 annually, providing individual identity monitoring and up to million in coverage per adult member. McAfee Plus includes 24/7 monitoring, a secure VPN for online banking, and parental controls. Competitors include Norton 360, Bitdefender Total Security, and Trend Micro Maximum Security, each with distinct features and performance characteristics. McAfee offers various support options, including a Support Center, community forums, direct assistance via phone and chat, and tutorial videos.

AppWizard

December 13, 2024

Only 3 of the top 150 Android apps can detect reverse engineering tool Frida — here’s why that’s bad

A recent examination by the Norwegian cybersecurity firm Promon found that 144 out of the top 150 Android applications are vulnerable to manipulation using the Frida dynamic instrumentation toolkit. Only three of the tested apps could detect Frida and limit their functionality. This indicates that approximately 97% of popular Android applications are susceptible to exploitation. The analysis highlights a significant security gap, prompting calls for enhanced detection mechanisms in apps handling sensitive data. The specific apps tested have over 550 million daily users and an average of 206 million monthly users as of November 2024. Users are advised to keep their devices updated, install reputable antivirus applications, and consider using Google Play Protect for additional security.

Tech Optimizer

December 11, 2024

Top 5 Reasons Cybersecurity Is a Huge Problem in Minnesota

Minnesota ranks 39th in the number of cybercrime victims per 100,000 residents and 8th in average loss per victim, indicating significant financial damage from cyber incidents. Many residents lack sufficient insurance for cyber-related losses, leaving them to bear recovery costs. Small businesses are particularly vulnerable to phishing and ransomware attacks, often unprepared for recovery. There is a lack of diversity in cybersecurity tools, with many relying solely on antivirus software and free solutions that offer inadequate protection. Awareness of essential tools like VPNs and anti-ransomware software is low. Limited public education on online safety leaves individuals and employees of small businesses susceptible to scams. The healthcare sector is frequently targeted by ransomware attacks, and local industries face unique cyber challenges due to outdated systems. Reliance on outdated technology increases vulnerabilities, as these systems often lack necessary security features and are incompatible with modern cybersecurity tools.

Tech Optimizer

December 2, 2024

What to do after buying a device in the Black Friday sales

As the holiday shopping season approaches, consumers are preparing for Black Friday, which offers significant discounts on devices like laptops, smartphones, and tablets. Retailers are expected to provide various seasonal promotions, making it an ideal time for price comparisons and savings. After purchasing a device, it is crucial to focus on cybersecurity by investing in a reliable VPN, antivirus software, and a secure password manager. Free VPN services may seem appealing, but they can compromise cybersecurity by selling user data and may have limitations. A reputable premium VPN offers better security features. Installing high-quality antivirus software is essential due to increasing cyber threats, and it's important to choose software that has been reviewed by experts and fits your budget. A password manager is also vital for securely storing and managing passwords, and it should have strong security features and compatibility across devices.

Tech Optimizer

November 29, 2024

Trend Micro review: strong protection that’s affordable

Trend Micro's Premium Security Suite is priced at .95 and offers comprehensive protection against online threats. It has a strong track record of near-perfect protection over 11 years and provides 24/7 support. The suite includes affordable multidevice plans, with the Premium Security Suite covering up to ten devices and featuring a VPN and identity theft insurance. Trend Micro offers a range of pricing tiers, starting with a basic Antivirus+ subscription for one device. It provides 30-day free trials and a free virus scanner called HouseCall. The installation process is user-friendly, and the dashboard is designed for easy navigation. Trend Micro excels in threat detection, achieving high scores in independent evaluations and effectively blocking malware attempts. Customer support includes phone support and 24/7 live chat for Premium subscribers. The company prioritizes user privacy, with limited data usage for service provision.

AppWizard

November 29, 2024

These 3 Android Apps Are Secretly Stealing Your Personal Data

Spyware apps are increasingly prevalent and can be easily accessed, even if removed from mainstream app stores. These applications can be installed manually on Android devices via APK files and are often placed on phones by individuals with physical access. Once installed, spyware can track location, log calls, monitor text messages, access photos, and gather data from messaging platforms without the owner's knowledge. Recent investigations revealed that several spyware apps, including TheTruthSpy, Copy9, and MxSpy, were involved in a significant data breach, exposing vast amounts of personal data stored on easily accessible servers. Victims of this breach often had no way of knowing their data was being collected. Signs of spyware presence on a smartphone include a sudden decline in battery life and unfamiliar apps in the app manager. Users can also check for spyware using a search tool developed by TechCrunch by entering their phone's IMEI number or advertising ID. The rise of spyware apps poses a growing threat as smartphones are integral to daily life, highlighting the need for better regulations and security measures.