What are passkeys really? The simple explanation - for anyone tired of passwords.

Over the past year or so, passkeys have hit the mainstream. The rate of adoption for this technology has been remarkable, and it shows no sign of slowing down. If your experience is like mine, you're probably invited to save a new passkey at least once or twice a week.

Click here to read the article.

Thought provoking article "You’ve been targeted by government spyware. Now what?"

 This article starts with: "It was a normal day when Jay Gibson got an unexpected notification on his iPhone. “Apple detected a targeted mercenary spyware attack against your iPhone,” the message read."

Read the rest of the article here.

Initial Report: Marquis data breach affects nearly 85K SC residents

 GREENVILLE, S.C. (FOX Carolina) - According to a notice filed with the SC Department of Consumer Affairs, 84,721 South Carolinians were impacted by a data breach at Marquis Software Solutions, Inc. Marquis is a digital and physical marketing and compliance software provider that offers services to over 700 banks. FOX Carolina is working to clarify which banks may have been affected.  Officials reported that on Aug. 14, Marquis identified suspicious activity on its network. An investigation determined that an unauthorized third party accessed its network and may have accessed and acquired certain files from its systems.  

This is an initial report with follow up reporting expected in the future.  Stay tuned for more information.

Click here to read the article.

Fake Grubhub emails promise tenfold return on sent cryptocurrency

 Grubhub users received fraudulent messages, apparently from a company email address, promising a tenfold bitcoin payout in return for a transfer to a specified wallet.  The emails claimed to be part of a ‘Holiday Crypto Promotion’ and came from an email address on ‘b.grubhub.com’, which is a legitimate subdomain that Grubhub uses to communicate with its merchant partners and restaurants.

Click here to read the article.

New and Advanced Security Settings for Android Phones

With the advent of Android 16, Google has rolled out some very strong and advanced security settings.  While these improvements are worthy (e.g. Preventing SIDELOADING all together), you need to read this article CAREFULLY before turning them on. 

Click here to read the article.

Is public Wi-Fi finally safe in 2025? Here’s the truth...

You've probably heard a lot about a lot about not connecting to public Wi-Fi networks unless it's an absolute emergency, and if you do, you shouldn't do any sensitive stuff on it. This was solid advice decades ago, and to an extent, it still is.

Click here to read the article.

Hackers can take over your WhatsApp account with this sneaky trick

You can often summarize cybersecurity as “same stuff, different day.” Attacks change, but rarely so dramatically you can’t see familiar methodology underneath. The latest example: Bad actors exploiting WhatsApp’s device linking process to infiltrate unsuspecting users’ accounts

Click here to read the article.

NYC grandma, 86, loses entire life savings of $700K in twisted scam — now she’s suing Bank of America, Merrill Lynch for negligence. Who’s at fault?

The fraud started in August 2023 as fear dressed up as urgency. Pop-up warnings began flashing across 86-year-old Nina Mortellito’s computer screen, claiming her bank accounts had been hacked. What followed was a months-long tale of manipulation that ultimately drained her of $700,000 — her entire life savings.

Click here to read the article.

Experts Warn You Should Never Share These 5 Things With ChatGPT — And What You Can Do If You Already Did

It’s becoming increasingly common for people to use ChatGPT and other AI chatbots like Gemini, Copilot and Claude in their everyday lives. A recent survey from Elon University’s Imagining the Digital Future Center found that half of Americans now utilize these technologies.

Click here to read the article.

Apple fixes two zero-day flaws exploited in 'sophisticated' attacks

Apple has released emergency updates to patch two zero-day vulnerabilities that were exploited in an “extremely sophisticated attack” targeting specific individuals.

Click here to read the article.

Google Issues Emergency Update For All 3 Billion Chrome Users—Attacks Confirmed

Just days after warning that Android is under attack, with two vulnerabilities now being exploited in the wild, Google has confirmed the same for Chrome. Another zero-day. Another warning attacks are underway. Another emergency update has been issued.

Click here to read the article.

Amazon issues warning to millions of customers and here’s why

 Amazon is not just nudging shoppers to be careful this holiday season, it is issuing a direct warning that millions of its customers are being targeted by increasingly sophisticated scams. The company is flagging a surge in fake messages, bogus websites and account takeover attempts that piggyback on its popularity and the crush of seasonal deals. At stake is the security of more than 300 m active users worldwide and the money flowing through what has become the default storefront for much of the planet.

Click here to read the article.

Why Banks Miss Scams Driven By Emotional Manipulation

 When your debit or credit card gets used at a gas station in another state, your bank is on it within seconds. You’ll get that familiar text, “Did you make this purchase?” That’s the kind of fraud banks are built to catch, the fast and obvious ones. What happens when the “fraud” unfolds slowly, over weeks or even months? When the person sending the money is manipulated into believing the money needs to be sent. That’s where the traditional system fails.  

Click here to read the article.

FBI PSA - Don’t Let Scammers Ruin Your Holiday Season

As scammers increasingly use pressure tactics and artificial intelligence to defraud Americans out of their hard-earned money, the FBI is reminding everyone to protect themselves and their families from fraud this holiday season. 

Click here to read the article.

The US government's new VPN guidance shows that internet restrictions were never about online safety

 The US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has advised against using VPNs, which doesn't seem to make a great deal of sense.

Click here to read the article.

FBI says scammers are stealing Instagram photos for fake kidnappings and ransoms - Here's how to spot it.

Here's a recent FBI PSA warning Instagram users about criminals using their photos for kidnapping and ransom scams.

Click here to read the article.

How to disable (and why) Automatic Content Recognition (ACR) on your SMART TV

Did you know that whenever you turn on your smart TV, you invite an unseen guest to watch it with you?  These days, most mainstream TVs use automatic content recognition (ACR), a type of ad-tracking technology that collects data on everything you watch and sends it to a central database. Manufacturers then use this information to understand your viewing habits and deliver highly targeted ads.  Read this article on how to protect your privacy.

Click to read the article

Credit Card Skimmers are getting smarter - Here's how to outsmart them.

Credit card skimmers are now nearly invisible, targeting both physical terminals and online payments with wireless technology. Stay safe by using contactless payments, inspecting card readers, and monitoring your accounts regularly.

Click here to read the article.

FBI issues important warning about Cell Phone SCAMS on the rise

The FBI warns of cyber criminals impersonating financial institutions to steal money or information in Account Takeover (ATO) fraud schemes. The cyber criminals target individuals, businesses, and organizations of varied sizes and across sectors. In ATO fraud, cyber criminals gain unauthorized access to the targeted online financial institution, payroll, or health savings account, with the goal of stealing money or information for personal gain. Since January 2025, the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) received more than 5,100 complaints reporting ATO fraud, with losses exceeding $262 million.  

Click here to read the alert.

Watch where you click for those amazing deals!

 “Kim, I pride myself on being internet smart. Yesterday, in the heat of hunting for a specific sold-out gift, I got sloppy. I saw a link for a ‘Flash Sale’ that looked legitimate. I clicked it, and immediately knew something was wrong. The URL looked weird, a pop-up flashed, my browser started acting erratic and my PC is slow now. I have that sinking feeling in my stomach, help!” — Paul in Missouri

Paul, you’re in trouble. Your computer is definitely waving major red flags, read what to do next...

Click here to read the article.

​​Spyware Allows Cyber Threat Actors to Target Users of Messaging Applications

CISA is aware of multiple cyber threat actors actively leveraging commercial spyware to target users of mobile messaging applications.  These cyber actors use sophisticated targeting and social engineering techniques to deliver spyware and gain unauthorized access to a victim’s messaging app, facilitating the deployment of additional malicious payloads that can further compromise the victim’s mobile device. 

Click here to read the advisory.

What Is 'Ghost Tapping'? The New Tap-To-Pay Scam You Should Know About,

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) issued a public warning about a new scam that could affect people looking to pay with mobile apps and certain credit and debit cards at the register. It's called "ghost tapping", and no, it has nothing to do with a neighborhood specter or an invisible hand tapping your shoulder. Despite the silly name, ghost tapping could net thieves hundreds or thousands in stolen funds.

Click here to read the article.

AI Chatbots and Their Role in Romance and Crypto Scams

Artificial Intelligence is changing everything, from the way we search for information to how businesses interact with customers. With any powerful tool, it can be used for good or for harm. Unfortunately, scammers are quick to take advantage of new technologies. One area that’s raising serious concerns is the use of AI chatbots in scams, especially in romance or crypto investment scams. 

Click here to read the article.

Hackers Replace ‘m’ with ‘rn’ in Microsoft(.)com to Steal Users’ Login Credentials

A sophisticated phishing campaign is currently leveraging a subtle typographical trick to bypass user vigilance, deceiving victims into handing over sensitive login credentials. Attackers utilize the domain “rnicrosoft.com” to impersonate the tech giant.

Click here to read the article.

Watch Out for These New Scams Targeting Social Security and VA Benefits.

Scammers love to impersonate government and law enforcement officials, from the FBI to the U.S. Marshals Service to Medicare and other health insurance programs. There's a good reason for this: Most Americans use government services at some point, and many may be apt to trust, or at least engage with, someone claiming to be from a well-known agency. Plus, the threat of losing benefits or being targeted by legal action is especially compelling when it comes from a government representative, and victims may be more likely to comply with scammers' demands.

Click here to read the article.

Signing in With Your Google Account - How to use this safely.

Signing in with your Google account across different services means that many sites and apps will have access to your account information. Since this is inherently risky, take these precautions to prevent potential problems and protect your privacy.

Click here to read the article. 

Nine Changes You Need to Make to Your Google Security and Privacy Settings.

There's no doubt Google is keen to track just about everything you do online and inside its apps, but it's also fair to say the company puts a comprehensive set of security and privacy tools at its users' disposal. You can use these tools to manage data in everything from Google Maps to YouTube

Click here to read the article.

If You Use Gmail, You're Going To Want To Turn Off This 1 Automatic Setting ASAP.

For Gmail users, there is an automatic opt-in that may allow Google to use your emailed data (think: your personal and work messages, your attachments) to train its AI models, cybersecurity experts warn. If you don’t want this information shared, you need to adjust your settings.

Click here to read the article.

Stay Safe this Holiday Season!!

We want to help you protect your hard-earned cash from the scammers and hackers that pop up every year. It's like they don't care about the naughty list!    Here is what we think is cheerful and what we think is coal-worthy for shopping online this holiday season: 

Click here to read the article.

Scammers are sending bogus copyright warnings to steal your X login

Chances are, you’ll be wondering what you did wrong. DMCA (Digital Millennium Copyright Act) notices are legal requests about copyrighted content, so it makes sense that many users would worry they broke the rules and feel eager to read the warning.

Click here to read the article.

Watch out - this fake Microsoft Teams app is actually dangerous malware, here's how to stay protected.

Fraudsters are sending victims fake Microsoft Teams meeting invitations in a bid to steal login credentials and achieve persistent access across the Microsoft 365 ecosystem, experts have warned.

Click here to read the article.

Popular Android-based photo frames download malware on boot.

Uhale Android-based digital picture frames come with multiple critical security vulnerabilities and some of them download and execute malware at boot time.

Click here to read the article.

Don’t commit to a VPN that lacks these 6 important features.

There are many features that make up a VPN but the most important among them directly impact a VPN’s performance, privacy, and security. Here is a short list of the top six features to look for.

Click here to read the article.

FBI issues urgent warning over Gmail cookie-theft scam!

The FBI has issued an urgent alert to Gmail users following a surge in cyberattacks that exploit a newly discovered vulnerability allowing hackers to steal login cookies and bypass two-factor authentication.

How to protect your account: The FBI recommends several key steps to reduce the risk of cookie-theft attacks:

-Regularly clear cookies and browsing data from your internet browser.

-Avoid using the “Remember this device” option when logging into accounts.

-Only access secure websites that begin with HTTPS.

-Review your account’s login activity frequently for suspicious access.

Click here to read this article.

Watch out for Walmart Gift Card SCAMS

You’ve probably seen it before—a bright, urgent message claiming you’ve qualified for a $750 or $1000 Walmart gift card. All you have to do is answer a few questions. It looks harmless enough. But once you click, you find yourself in a maze of surveys, redirects, and “partner offers”—without ever actually reaching the end and claiming your prize.

Click here to read the article.

Yet another article about Android malware with the potential to steal your bank info...

The Polish Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT Polska) analyzed a new Android-based malware that uses NFC technology to perform unauthorized ATM cash withdrawals and drain victims’ bank accounts.  Researchers found that the malware, called NGate, lets attackers withdraw cash from ATMs (Automated Teller Machines, or cash machines) using banking data exfiltrated from victims’ phones—without ever physically stealing the cards.

Click here to read the article.

Understanding a bit more about the potential US ban on TP-link Routers

The U.S. government is reportedly preparing to ban the sale of wireless routers and other networking gear from TP-Link Systems, a tech company that currently enjoys an estimated 50% market share among home users and small businesses. Experts say while the proposed ban may have more to do with TP-Link’s ties to China than any specific technical threats, much of the rest of the industry serving this market also sources hardware from China and ships products that are insecure fresh out of the box.

Click here to read the article.

Windows Sandbox - An easy and safe way to test applications before installing them on your PC

The internet can be a dangerous place, and there is more at stake if your device is compromised by malware than ever. Your passwords could be stolen, sensitive details, like your bank information, social security number, or medical information could fall into the wrong hands. If nothing else, it is just extremely inconvenient to have a PC infected with malware.  Luckily, if you have the Pro version of Windows 11, there is a fantastic tool built-in that lets you test programs in advance to see if they're actually malware masquerading as a normal program.

Click here to read the article.

Users are getting false Windows 10 "end-of-support" messages after ESU

Windows 10 users who either got an ESU (via paying for it or being eligible to get one for free) or are otherwise eligible for longer-term software support are seeing a message telling them that their Windows 10 computers are not eligible to get any more updates. As a reminder, regular Windows 10 with an ESU will get updates until October 2026, and some flavors of LTSC Windows 10 are getting updates until 2027 or all the way up to 2032 in the case of IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021. So that's definitely not right.

Click here to read the article.

Chrome browser "Autofill" - We need to be VERY careful with this new feature becoming available soon

Computer users are accustomed to web browsers autofilling everything from names and addresses to credit card numbers. Now, Google Chrome is adding new enhanced autofill options that allow users to automatically populate fields for passports, driver's licenses, and their vehicle's license plate or VIN, Google said in a blog post on Monday.

Click here to read the article.

Fake PayPal invoice from Geek Squad is a tech support SCAM

Here's a good article on what to look for if you receive a suspicious email seemingly sent from PayPal.  This is a very straight forward article on how to spot (quickly!) the signs that the email is a SCAM.

Click here to read the article.

Phishing scam uses fake death notices to trick LastPass users.

LastPass has alerted users about a new phishing attack that claims the recipient has died. According to the message, a family member has submitted a death certificate to gain access to the recipient’s password vault. A link in the phishing email, supposedly to stop the request, leads to a fake page that asks for the LastPass user’s master password.

Click here to read the article.

How to tell if that Internet video is an AI FAKE

If you're wondering how you can tell when a clip is actually AI-generated, don't worry. Here are some telltale signs.

Click here to read the article.

Microsoft EDGE fixes its Passkey problem

Microsoft Edge has finally released passkey saving and syncing across Windows desktop devices using the Microsoft Password Manager. This fixed a major hurdle in the shift away from traditional passwords because things were complicated before.

Click here to read the article.

Texting and Messaging Scam Attempts Have Increased by 50 Percent, a Consumer Reports Survey Finds

 Texting and messaging scam attempts have increased by 50 percent in the past year, with young adults experiencing the sharpest rise of any age group.  That’s one of several important findings in the 2025 Cyber Readiness Report (PDF), the fourth annual effort by Consumer Reports, Aspen Digital, and the Global Cyber Alliance to examine how consumers view and manage their digital privacy and security.

Click here to read the report.

Identity Theft Protection - 10 Places you should never give out your SSN

Times change, and the places where you should never give your Social Security number are not as obvious as they might have once been. Safeguarding your Social Security number is one of the best ways to prevent identity theft.

Click here to read the article.

Week #4 of National Cyber Security Awareness Week - PHISHING

Cybercriminals love to go phishing, but you don't have to get hooked. Know what to look for! 

Click here to read the article.

LastPass ‘digital will’ phishing attack uses fake death certificate emails.

These fake emails claim that someone has uploaded your death certificate. It's all a trick to snatch your master password from you.

Click here to read the article.

A good article about DEEP FAKE videos - How to tell the difference between real and fake ones.

If you're even a little bit online, the odds are you've seen an image or video that was AI-generated. I know I've been fooled before, like I was by that viral video of bunnies on a trampoline. But Sora is taking AI videos to a whole new level, making it more important than ever to know how to spot AI.

Click here to read the article.

Your cell phone is tracking you - How to fight back.

 We live in an era where the lines between our physical and digital lives are increasingly blurred. Smartphones are indispensable companions, seamlessly integrating into nearly every facet of our daily existence. However, that comes with a significant trade-off in the form of location tracking. Many of us operate under the assumption that we control our digital footprint, especially when it comes to our whereabouts, but that’s not very accurate.

Understanding the underlying processes of how you are tracked is the first step toward reclaiming some semblance of control over your personal data. More importantly, you should be equipped with practical knowledge and actionable steps to fight back and improve your digital privacy effectively.

Click here to read the article.

TikTok videos used to hide dangerous malware attacks - here's how to stay safe!

Security researchers, including Trend Micro, Xavier Mertens and others have all reported seeing multiple TikTok videos offering instructions on how to “activate” popular software such as Windows, Microsoft 365, Adobe Premiere, and others. In some cases, the videos are instructing viewers on activating product packs that don’t even exist, such as on Netflix or Spotify.

To stay safe, be skeptical of random links or buttons in emails or websites, especially those who ask you for urgent fixes or updates. Always visit official websites and use legitimate software. Furthermore, make sure your browser, operating system, and security software is up to date, and use a reliable ad blocker (if possible).

Click here to read the article.

Scouts can now earn a badge in Cybersecurity!

Scouting America, the organization formerly known as the Boy Scouts, is giving scouts the chance to earn two merit badges that engage new technology: one in artificial intelligence, and another in cybersecurity.  The organization, which counts about a million scouts in its ranks, offers hundreds of merit badges spanning everything from fishing to fingerprinting. The badges have long presented scouts with the opportunity to sharpen skills and explore new subjects.

Click here to read the article.

It's week #3 of National Cyber Security Awareness Month - Watch this video on why it's important to update your software!

It can be easy to click "remind me later," but it can also make your device a target for cyberattacks. Check out our new animation to see how updating your software can help you stay safe online.

 Click here to watch the video.

Scammers are targeting your phone - Here's what to watch for.

Thousands of people are bilked every year by criminals who enter the lives of their victims through their telephones. AARP once found that about half of all mobile calls were fraudulent, and that the problem was worsening. Fraudulent landline calls are declining as the technology fades, but scam calls to fixed lines still nab plenty of unsuspecting victims. And while seniors are often the target of scammers, anyone can be taken for a ride. Here's everything you need to know about phone scams — including ones that involve fraudsters impersonating IRS officials — and how to avoid becoming a victim.  

Click here to read the article.

The password mistake that hackers count on.

You probably have dozens of passwords to remember for various websites and apps. It can get so difficult to create new, complex passwords for every one of the sites you visit (using a password manager can definitely help). Unfortunately, hackers are on standby just waiting for you to make some of the most common password mistakes. It’s important that you stop making this one mistake — you have a lot to lose if things go wrong. Your personal information, including banking and credit card numbers, can fall into the wrong hands. Here’s the common password mistake that hackers love — and how to stay safe.

Click here to read the article.

10 phrases scammers use that signal it's time to end the call.

Scammers are masters of manipulation, and they rely on specific, high-pressure language to trick you. They want to get you so flustered that you can’t think straight. But what if you knew their script? What if you could spot their game from a mile away?

Click here to read the article.

MSN Video - 10 Steps to Take When Your Private Data Ends Up On The Dark Web

 Good video regarding steps to follow when you discover your info on "The Dark Web".

Click here to watch the video

Your Smart TV Is Spying on You With Three Letters You’ve Never Even Heard Of.

At this point, you're probably pretty used to the idea that your smartphone tracks what you do and shares that information with various companies. It's a little depressing, but it's become a fact of life. However, what about your TV?  Somehow, the idea that your TV is watching what you do and sending information back to base doesn't sit quite as well with me, and I suspect you as well. So what if I told you there was technology that monitors everything you watch, and then uses that information? I'm not just talking about Netflix or other streaming services, taking note of your favorite movies. No, I'm talking about your TV itself, watching everything you put on-screen. It's called ACR or Automatic Content Recognition.

Click here to read the article.

How to keep your Chromebook secure.

Chromebooks are renowned for their powerful safety and privacy features, but that doesn't mean you can just stop worrying about either of those issues. Any security system is only as strong as its weakest link, and you don't want that to be you.

You also don't have to be some sort of computer expert to help your Chromebook protect your privacy and keep your data secure. It takes just a handful of good habits to minimize the odds something will go wrong.

Click here to read the article.

7 ways your Windows PC can get hacked (And what you can do about it

 We tend to think of our personal computers as safe zones, especially when we have installed robust security solutions like antivirus and firewalls. But the truth is, hackers aren't always kicking down the digital door with brute force. More often, they're slipping in quietly through overlooked weaknesses, software loopholes, or social engineering tricks that feel totally normal until it's too late. The popularity and wide usage of Windows OS, along with its backward compatibility and broader attack surface, make it a common target for attackers.

Click Here to read the article.

WEEK #2 - Cyber Security Awareness Month - Learn more about MFA

Multifactor authentication (MFA) adds another layer of protection—think of it like securing your front door with both a deadbolt and a keypad lock. MFA is a simple, effective way to keep hackers out, even if they manage to get your password.

Click here to read more.

Fake 'Inflation Refund' texts target New Yorkers in new scam.

An ongoing smishing campaign is targeting New Yorkers with text messages posing as the Department of Taxation and Finance, claiming to offer "Inflation Refunds" in an attempt to steal victims' personal and financial data.

Don't fall for this, read the article below.

Click here to read the article. 

8 red flags of a phishing scam: I insta-delete any email with these tip-offs.

Phishing is alive and well in 2025, as even with robust antivirus and antimalware protections, the weakest link in the security chain is often the human element. We all make mistakes, skim an email and think it’s probably fine to click that link. But wait! Don’t do it! Phishing scammers rely on you not using due diligence to protect yourself, your data, and your devices with good personal security practices.

The best way to spot phishing emails is to know what to look for. Here’s a list of some of the big phishing red flags which should send you running when you spot them.

Click here to read the article.

Passkeys aren’t scary – passwords are. Let’s bust some security myths!

Passkeys beat passwords.

Not everyone agrees. But I’ve found that some dissent is rooted in a lack of understanding how passkeys work. 

I don’t blame the skeptics. Passkeys are simple to use, but their technical nuances can be a headache to understand. So let’s get into the details.

Click here to read the article.

Your iPhone wants to track every place you visit - here's how to stop it.

With iOS 26, Apple added a new feature to its Maps app. Known as Visited Places, this option tracks the places you visit. That capability sounds handy, as it gives you a way to easily find and return to previous locations.

But any feature that tracks your whereabouts can raise a red flag. Apple promises that the information is encrypted and that no one at the company can read it. Still, you may want to manage or even turn off this option. Here are the steps.

Click here to read the article.

Cybersecurity Awareness Month: Double-down on the security basics!

 In a world dominated by generative artificial intelligence (GenAI), automation, and advanced security platforms, many security pros might expect Cybersecurity Awareness Month to spotlight modern security strategies such as threat intelligence feeds, AI‑powered malware detection, and zero‑trust architectures.

However, there’s a much more practical reality. Core 4 actions to stay safe online continue to emphasize the fundamentals, demonstrating the power of security basics to prevent attacks and proving that human behavior remains as critical as ever: use strong passwords, turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA), recognize and report scams, and run the software updates.

Click here to read the entire article.

It's OCTOBER 1st - Happy National Cyber Security Awareness Month!! (NCSAM)

National Cyber Security Awareness Month empowers individuals and businesses to protect themselves. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the National Cybersecurity Alliance co-lead the global campaign every October!  Take a few minutes to reinforce the 4 basic / fundamental aspects of keeping yourself secure within our digital community.

1. USE MULTIFACTOR AUTHENTICATION!

2.    Keep your computer and applications updated.

3. Stay Aware and Think before you click! Question what you see in e-mails and pop-ups. (Do NOT click on embedded text or links!  This goes for CELL PHONES TOO!)

4.   Create strong, unique PASSWORDS/PHRASES.  Be prepared for PASSKEYS.  

Click here to examine the Safe and Secure Online website.

Your 'Smart' Home is not as 'smart' OR SECURE as you think!

Smart home devices can streamline a lot of your day-to-day tasks: With an internet connection and some simple automations, you may never have to carry house keys, turn off the lights, or touch your thermostat. But all of this convenience comes at a potential cost, as smart tech is vulnerable to attack by cyber actors, leaving your personal data and your privacy at risk.

Click here to read the article.

How to set up a PASSKEY for your Microsoft account.

As we’ve said before, passwords are going away. Microsoft agrees—last year, it announced a goal of getting one billion users to embrace passkeys instead.  As part of that effort, setting up a passkey for a Microsoft account is very easy. You might not have noticed, though, since most people don’t often go into account settings. You’ve likely only seen Windows asking to create and store passkeys for other services and sites you visit on your PC.  Read this article to see how to proceed.

Click here to read the article.

Apple Just Released an Important Update to Solve Some iOS 26 Problems.

 It's an exciting time to be an iPhone user. There's iOS 26, of course, which brings a number of major changes to the platform. For the daring, there's the iOS 26.1 beta, which continues to build upon the foundation of Apple's latest OS. If that weren't enough, however, Apple also just dropped yet another iPhone update—this time intended mostly to fix problems with the last one.

Click here to read the article.

Another good article about how to keep your Windows 10 PC secure for the next year.

 The era of Windows 10 is almost over. On Oct. 14, Microsoft will be stopping Windows 10 support, and there will be no more updates to the OS. If you can't upgrade to Windows 11, don't panic. For $30 you can snag a year of security updates to keep your OS safe. Alternatively, you can take advantage of this free option by enabling cloud backup and connecting it to your OneDrive account.

Click here to read the article.

Scammers are now faking the FBI's own website - here's how to stay safe.

 FBI warns its scam reporting site is being spoofed. Here's how to be sure that you're going to the real site.

Click here to read the article.

As Passkeys make progress, we need to ensure we understand the potential risks.

At this year's DEF CON conference in Las Vegas, white hat security researchers demonstrated how threat actors could use a clickjack attack to surreptitiously trigger and hijack a passkey-based authentication ceremony. 

Click here to read the article.

DNS - The overlooked Security aspect of Windows

 For a long time, I never thought about what happens when I type a web address into a browser and hit “Enter.” In fact, your computer asks a DNS server where to find the site, and unless you’ve previously made changes to your settings, that request goes out in plain text, visible to any system your traffic passes through on its way across the network. 

That doesn’t sit well with me, and if you’re a privacy- or security-conscious person, it probably doesn’t sit well with you either. First, I don’t like my ISP building a history of every site I visit, and I definitely don’t want this data floating around where hackers or other bad actors could intercept it, especially when using public Wi-Fi. This is why I encrypt my DNS.

Click Here to read the article.

7 Ways your Windows Computer can be 'hacked'

We tend to think of our personal computers as safe zones, especially when we have installed robust security solutions like antivirus and firewalls. But the truth is, hackers aren't always kicking down the digital door with brute force. More often, they're slipping in quietly through overlooked weaknesses, software loopholes, or social engineering tricks that feel totally normal until it's too late. The popularity and wide usage of Windows OS, along with its backward compatibility and broader attack surface, make it a common target for attackers.

Click Here to read the article.

Beware GOOGLE INVITES

 📅 Invite from hell: One poisoned Google Calendar invite can trick ChatGPT into leaking Gmail if connectors are on. Apple folks recently got hit, too, with fake iCloud invites pushing PayPal scams. Different tech, same headache. Fix your calendar settings so only invites from people you actually know land on your schedule. In Google Calendar, go to Settings > Event settings > Add invitations to my calendar, and switch it to Only if the sender is known.

Click here to read the article.

ANDROID USERS - Check your device for these BAD APPS

Hackers snuck 224 fake apps into Google Play, downloaded over 38 million times. Yes, you read that right. Disguised with names like CreateCreatives, Foocus, ChatGLM and ClapTrack (ahem, clap to find your phone?), they looked harmless but installed shady ads. Then came the real damage: The apps hijacked devices, silently launching invisible web browsers that ran 24/7, draining battery life, eating up data, slowing down performance and overheating phones, all to generate 2.3 billion fake ad views per day. Ad networks paid out as if real users were watching, while your phone was working overtime behind your back.

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Credit Report FREEZING is a must - Here are additional steps to take.

Putting freezes on your credit report (through ALL THREE agencies) is an important step in protecting your Digital Identity.   Here's an article regarding additional steps you can take for protecting yourself as much as possible. 

Click here to read the article.

Veterans Benefit Administration source of info regarding Scams and Fraud

Fraud is increasing on a global scale, changing the way businesses and individuals protect themselves and their data. Veterans are often targets of fraud, and bad actors are becoming more sophisticated in their attacks. Veterans and their families have sacrificed much for our country and deserve to have their hard-earned benefits protected from fraud. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) designs and executes strategies for internal and external stakeholders to educate Veterans, their beneficiaries, and stakeholders on fraud prevention. VA’s priority is to protect Veterans’ and beneficiaries’ and ensure they are safeguarded against fraudulent activities.

Click here to access the VA Web Site

Do Macs need antivirus software, or are Apple’s protections enough?

(Special THANKS to Noah for sending this out earlier today)

Do you need antivirus for Mac? Macs do get viruses and malware, but Apple includes its own virus protections in macOS that should keep you safe. We explain what they are and why they may not be enough.

Click here to read the article.

11 warning signs your phone is hacked and what to do if it is.

We bank, search, shop, learn, and share our lives through our phones. Needless to say, there’s a lot of sensitive information stored on these pocket-sized devices, including passwords and credit card numbers. And as AI functionality becomes a standard feature on newer mobile operating systems, phones are storing even more personal data, queries, and user behavior.

A successful mobile phone hacking attempt can enable attackers to see saved data in real time. And with this kind of access, they can potentially commit identity theft, financial fraud, blackmail, and other crimes.

In this post, we’ll walk you through common warning signs of a hacked phone, how to confirm it, what steps to take next, and how to protect yourself from future attacks.

Click here to read the article.

FTC wants the IT industry to help younger family members stay safe from AI "Companions"

The Federal Trade Commission is launching an investigation into AI chatbots from seven companies, including Alphabet, Meta and OpenAI, over their use as companions. The inquiry involves finding how the companies test, monitor and measure the potential harm to children and teens. 

Click here to read the article.

PLEX Breach - Read their advisory information here.

The Plex streaming platform had told customers to reset their passwords following a data breach.  In an advisory, the company said users should also sign out of any connected devices that are currently logged in and enable two-factor authentication if they haven’t already.

Click here to read the article

Video - Some things to consider if you discover your personal information is on the 'dark web'

 

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Don’t wait until your laptop is stolen! Change these 7 settings right now.

One day, you might lose your laptop. It could be stolen or it could be misplaced. But if you’re reading this right now and you still have your laptop with you, the advice is the same either way: be proactive and take steps to protect your machine ahead of time.

Click here to read the article.

Why Do Scammers Target Older Adults?

Research shows that people over the age of 60, though, are especially at risk. The FBI reports that older adults are the most frequently targeted group...and they lose the most money. In just one year, nearly $5 billion was reported lost to online scams by this demographic. Experts agree that the actual number is likely even higher due to underreporting. Why is this the case?

Click here to read the article.

Microsoft Promises Windows 10 Users Free Security Updates for a Year – but There Are Strings Attached

 Not ready to move on to Windows 11? You can pay for another year of Windows 10 security updates, or you can take advantage of this free option.

Click HERE to read the article.

Traveling soon? 5 simple ways I thwart phone thieves.

Phone theft is on the rise. Here are a few simple but effective things anyone can do to protect their device while on the go.

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The latest tools for ensuring your cellphone is safe!

Criminals are getting a lot smarter—and more aggressive—about attacking your cellphone.  Mobile-specific attacks—from fake toll-road messages to AI-powered robocalls or virtual SIM-swaps that hijack your number—increased by 50% in 2024 over the previous year, according to cybersecurity firm Kaspersky.  And with artificial intelligence on the march, phone-based fraud is growing more sophisticated by the day.

Click here to read the article.

This Android Malware Is Spreading Through Facebook Ads

 

Threat actors are once again using Meta's advertising platform to distribute malware. This time, it's a form of Android spyware known as Brokewell, and it's spreading through a malvertising campaign on Facebook.   According to researchers at Bitdefender, cybercriminals are running ads that promise free access to TradingView Premium, a market tracking and investment app, for Android mobile users. Clicking on the fraudulent ads, which use TradingView's branding and, in some cases, images of Labubus, leads to users downloading and installing malware on their devices.

Click here to read the article.

Looking for a PC security/anti-Virus solution? Here's a comparison article for your homework.

Windows computers come with security software baked into the OS, but for some folks, an upgrade can help demystify and simplify security. To help you choose a good suite, PC Magazine identified products that offer excellent protection, worthwhile features, and minimal performance impact on your computer.. 

Click here to read the article.

Google refutes story that GMAIL users need to reset their passwords

Google has disputed a widely reported story about the company warning all Gmail users to reset their passwords due to a recent data breach that also affected some Workspace accounts.

This claim was covered by numerous news outlets, as well as cybersecurity firms, which published stories about the so-called "urgent warning" asking 2.5 billion Gmail users worldwide to enable two-step authentication and reset their passwords.

However, as the company explained on a Monday blog post addressing these inaccurate stories, "Gmail's protections are strong and effective, and claims of a major Gmail security warning are false.

Click here to read the story.

AI Browsers pose current risks - Read these articles to learn more.

AI browsers have a critical flaw: They can’t tell safe commands from malicious text. Patches help, but guardrails are essential to keeping your data safe.

Click here to read the article.

Are You Letting AI Browsers Put Your Data at Risk? What the Comet AI Vulnerabilities Mean for You.

Click here to read the article.

Is a hacker logged into your Google account? Here’s how to find out.

 If you live in a more populated area, you likely check your doors before bed to make sure they’re locked. The same idea is worthwhile to apply to your vital online accounts, too—verifying that they’re secure.

In that vein, a periodic review of devices logged into your Google account is a good idea. If someone’s stolen your password, you should be aware of that unauthorized access to all your email, photos, videos, and other files. A hacker isn’t the only person to be worried about, either. A romantic partner, roommate, family member, or friend could decide to spy on you, too. You should be sure that only the right people have access.

To see which devices are logged into your Google account, you can use either on a PC or your phone. If you spot any intruders, remove them—and then also change your password to prevent future unauthorized login.

Click here to read the article.

Google is taking steps to make Android devices 'safer' in the near future

 One of the last major differences between Android and iOS is not dead, but it's definitely coming to an end, with Google deciding that Apple's way was the best all along.   This article talks about about sideloading -- the ability to install apps from unverified developers, bypassing Google's Play Store. The argument made by Google is pretty much the same one Apple has used for years: Security.

Click here to read the story.

Are you CYBER SAFE? - Take this quiz

Online safety, or cyber-hygiene, is an important and evolving topic. Using best practices can help you improve your online security and reduce your risk of being victimized by an identity crime. Test your knowledge by answering a few quick questions.

Click here to take the quiz!

Quick article about CREDIT FREEZES - A VERY important element of your cyber security efforts.

One of the most important elements of your CYBER SECURITY efforts, taking control of your credit files and reports prevent identity thieves from opening fraudulent accounts in your name through strategic credit freezes and regular monitoring.

By law, you have the option to order a credit freeze either online or by phone. The law also allows you to temporarily “unfreeze” your credit reports online or by phone when applying for new loans and credit cards. Credit Reporting Agencies must freeze your credit reports within one business day of your request and unfreeze your credit reports within one hour of your request.

Click here to read the article

Building a Line of Defense Against Your Digital Footprint

 

Have you ever Googled yourself just to see what pops up? It can be surprising and sometimes a little unsettling to realize how much personal information is out there for anyone to see. From social media posts to old profiles you forgot existed, your digital footprint can reveal more than you think.

Scammers love this. The more they know about you; where you live, where you went to school, your birthday; the easier it is for them to craft convincing scams. But here’s the good news, you can take steps to reduce your online exposure and build a stronger line of defense. 

Click here to read the article.

Some more Back to School cyber security tips for parents, grandparents, and students.

While parents are hunting for good deals and students prepare for back-to-school season, cybercrooks are stepping up their game, hoping to catch families off guard.

That’s why good cyber hygiene and awareness are just as important as your shopping lists to protect not just your identity and finances, but also your well-being as the new school season starts.

Click here to read the article.

Don't fall for it: McAfee’s antivirus is fine, but its marketing techniques aren’t.

On many new PCs, McAfee’s antivirus prompts are seriously misleading. They make the new PC experience more obnoxious, and they not-so-subtly nudge less-knowledgeable PC users into handing over their credit card numbers.  Read this article to stay ahead of their sales techniques. 

Click here to read the article.

Cyber Security tips for college students

 If you have children or grandchildren entering college this fall, this article is for them!!!  Between classes, clubs, jobs, homework, and the occasional nap, today's college students juggle a lot. But there’s another task every student should keep on their list: cybersecurity.

Click here to read the article.

The "AI Arms Race"....Yes, Hackers are using AI........

Criminals, good guys and foreign spies: Hackers everywhere are using AI now.  Hackers are using AI to scan for sensitive material on targets' computers, and cyber companies are using AI to find vulnerabilities.  As reported within this NBC News article, read about how the good guys and the bad guys are using AI to try and stay one step ahead of each other. 

Click here to read the article.

Microsoft: August security updates break Windows recovery, reset features.

 Microsoft has confirmed that the August 2025 Windows security updates are breaking reset and recovery operations on systems running Windows 10 and older versions of Windows 11.

Click Here to read the article.

FBI Shares Tips to Spot Fake Lawyer Schemes Targeting Crypto Scam Victims

 The FBI has updated its alert about fake lawyers defrauding victims of cryptocurrency scams, adding due diligence measures to help victims.

The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) has previously warned that fraudsters were posing as lawyers from fictitious law firms and using social media and messaging services to defraud victims of cryptocurrency scams.

In this sophisticated scheme, the malicious actors target vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly, and offer to recover funds from a previous scam but instead steal personal information and sometimes money from them.

Click here to read the article.

Recent survey shows nearly 73% of adults have experienced a cyber scam.

Online scammers continue to dupe the majority of American adults as they infiltrate virtual calendars and security systems meant to defend users against the poaching of personal information.  A recent survey of more than 9,000 U.S. adults by the Pew Research Center found that approximately 73% experienced at least one or more online scams or attacks.  This article describes some of the means our cyber adversaries are using to dupe us into falling for the attack.  The article also contains some easy, quick to follow steps on how to spot them and protect yourself.

Click here to read the article.

Still on the Fence About Getting a Password Manager? Here's Why You Need One and How to Set One Up.

Staying secure online and protecting your personal information is sometimes easier said than done. One of the ways you can help to protect your information and accounts is by creating a strong, unique password for each of your online accounts. A password manager can help keep your private data secure, and they're easier to use than you may think.

Click here to read the article.

Those Phishing or SCAM emails are actually crafted scripts. Read how they are created.

Many people imagine scammers are just winging it or copying and pasting a few generic lines. The truth is, most scams today, whether online, over the phone, or in your DMs, follow highly developed, carefully crafted scripts. 

These scripts are tested, refined, and shared among cybercriminals. They know what words create panic, what phrases build trust, and how to mirror your emotions. Whether it’s a phishing email pretending to be your bank, or a crypto “mentor” promising high returns, these messages are built using proven psychological tactics that work across all types of people. 

Click here to read the article

October 2025 - National Cyber Security Awareness Month - Rapidly Approaching!!

 

Cybersecurity Awareness Month is a global initiative that raises awareness about online safety and empowers individuals and businesses to protect themselves from cybercrime. Every October, Cybersecurity Awareness Month teaches people simple ways to protect themselves online. This year’s theme, Stay Safe Online, is all about the simple ways to protect yourself, your family and your business from online threats. October 2025 is right around the corner, start taking steps now to be more cyber secure and be part of this important effort!

Click here to access this info.

Even Cyber Security Experts can get fooled!

Humans aren’t infallible, as much as we’d like to be. That includes security cyber security experts.  Read this incredible article how an Industry Leader in Cyber Security got 'phished' and was fooled into capturing his credentials, logging in, and then exporting all 16,000 email addresses associated with his newsletter.

Click here to read the article.

Why Do Scammers Love Telegram & WhatsApp?

If you’ve gotten a weird message on Telegram or WhatsApp from someone you don’t know, or maybe someone who seems familiar but is acting off, you’re not the only one. These platforms have become a breeding ground for all kinds of scams, and it’s not just a random coincidence. 

Scammers are using messaging apps like Telegram and WhatsApp for very specific reasons. Let’s break down why they use these platforms and, most importantly, what you can do to stay safe. Whether you’re just curious or you’ve been affected personally, this article is for you. 

Click here to read the article.