Reading Time: 3 minutesThere’s more to using a USB flash drive than just plugging it in, at least if you want to get the most out of it. USB flash drives are pretty self-explanatory, aren’t they? All you have to do is plug it into your PC and it’s ready to go, whether you’re using it to transfer files, play media, or launch an app. But mistakes can happen, and these mistakes can go further than the familiar Read more…
Reading Time: 5 minutesJust because you have a working antivirus and a password doesn’t mean your computer is impenetrable. You may be making your computer vulnerable without even realizing it! 1 Default Settings Aren’t Always Secure Proxima Studio/Shutterstock While default settings may be convenient, they’re not great for security. For instance, default router settings make your home network easy to hack. Your router has a default admin name and password that could be vulnerable if relied upon. After Read more…
Reading Time: 3 minutesOne benefit of using a virtual private network (VPN) is concealing your location. But if that’s your main goal, you might be surprised to learn that some apps can still tell your real location. Why VPNs Can’t Completely Hide Your Location When you connect to a VPN, it creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and the VPN provider’s server. Then, when you send or receive data over the internet, it is transmitted through the Read more…
Reading Time: 5 minutesSocial media is a prime target for scammers. By understanding their tactics, you can protect yourself from becoming a victim. Let’s look at how scammers frequently use your social media profiles to lure you into scams. Net Vector/Shutterstock The most tried-and-true tactic of scammers is a social engineering tactic called phishing. Phishing involves using deception, such as mimicking a trusted person, website, or organization, to steal your personal information. For instance, you might get a Read more…
Reading Time: 4 minutesTwo-factor authentication (2FA) adds a vital layer of security to your online accounts, but unfortunately, not all methods are created equal. Many people rely on SMS-based 2FA, assuming it’s a safe choice. Unfortunately, SMS is far from foolproof. Here’s why I’ve stopped using SMS for 2FA and what I use instead… SIM Swaps Allow Hackers to Steal Your Phone Number One of the most alarming risks of using SMS for 2FA is SIM swapping, a Read more…
Reading Time: 4 minutesYou might be paying for the best internet plan your ISP offers, but the truth is that your router’s placement can make all the difference in how good or bad your Wi-Fi performs. That’s why I’m busting seven common router placement myths to help you make the most of your Wi-Fi’s speed and quality. Myth 1: You Can Keep the Router in the Corner to Reduce Clutter Proxima Studio/Shutterstock While tucking your router away in Read more…
Reading Time: 4 minutesToday’s routers are loaded with features that make them easier for everyday consumers to use. However, some of these features are vulnerable to hackers, so I always turn off these router settings for better security. 1 WPS ASUS Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) sounds like a fantastic idea on paper. It lets you authenticate wireless devices on your network by simply pushing the WPS button on your router. Then, you go to a client device and Read more…
Reading Time: 3 minutesThese days, Windows is a very secure operating system. But there was a time when people dreaded the idea of hooking Windows up to the internet without a third-party antivirus. These days, doing so is totally fine. However, despite recent innovations from Microsoft, Windows still maintains the status of an insecure operating system. Windows Was the Only Virus-Ridden Operating System There was once a time when macOS simply didn’t get viruses. Because the operating system Read more…
Reading Time: 6 minutesLooking to upgrade your laptop RAM? Before getting stuck in, there are some considerations you’ll need to make, such as how much RAM you need, what type of RAM to buy, and your laptop’s RAM capacity. How Much RAM Do You Need? If you sense that your PC is slowing down, adding more RAM is a cost-effective way to boost your computer’s performance and run more modern apps. The total amount of RAM you need Read more…
Reading Time: 4 minutesSecuring your Wi-Fi connection is an absolute necessity, especially when you’re connected to public or shared networks. Without proper protection, hackers can exploit your connection, intercept your data, or infect your device. Here are some steps to protect your connection and device from potential risks. 1 Switch Your Network Profile Windows offers two Wi-Fi network profiles: Public and Private. The Public profile isolates your device from others on the network, reducing the risk of hackers Read more…