Security & Privacy Tutorials

Keeping your personal and online data private and secure is paramount. You’ll learn how to stay safe online with the best firewall and anti-virus software, how to manage your passwords and how to recognise scams and security risks. #MUO ► https://www.makeuseof.com/category/security/
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This Is Why I'll Never Buy an Antivirus Again
We all know that an antivirus is a vital defensive tool used to prevent malware from infecting our computers. So, naturally, I thought that by purchasing an antivirus tool, I was enhancing its capabilities and keeping data even safer. You might be surprised at what I found out.
How to Tell if Your Smartphone Has Malware: 6 Clear Signs I Noticed
If your smartphone seems to be acting up—perhaps bombarding you with random pop-ups or displaying unfamiliar apps—these could be red flags of malware. Here are six clear signs of malware that I’ve personally encountered, which could help you identify if your phone is infected.
These 7 Password Managers Are the Best For Family Groups
If you want to keep your family safe online, you'll want to set them up with a password manager. As your family's experience with the internet grows, they're likely to start signing up for new accounts and services, and each one could become a security risk if they reuse the same password or create something weak and easy to guess.
These 5 File Types Are Often Used to Hide Viruses
Malware and viruses can hide almost anywhere; one of the most common places is the very files you use every day, hidden among those familiar file extensions.
I Set Up VPN Split Tunneling, and It Was Easier Than I Thought
VPNs are great at safeguarding your privacy, but one downside is that the encryption slows your internet connection down. But there is a solution: activate your VPN's split tunneling feature.
Here's What a Hacker Could Really Do With Access to Your Wi-Fi Router
A Wi-Fi router manages network traffic and functions as your gateway to the internet, but what happens if it falls into the wrong hands? Whether a hacker is targeting your router for fun or has real malicious intent, here's everything they can do if they gain access to your router.
I Almost Fell For a Phishing Scam: Here’s What Happened
I can often easily spot phishing scams, but around a month before penning this piece, I very nearly fell victim to one. It was one of the most legitimate-looking emails I’ve received, which made it even scarier. Fortunately, I acted fast to reduce the damage.
If You Fall for a Phishing Email, Here’s What Happens Next
If you get phished, it’s important not to worry too much. While it’s annoying, you can mitigate the damage if you realize the mistake fast enough.
4 Ways Using a Smartphone Has Actually Improved My Privacy
Smartphones are walking surveillance machines. Yet, in today's world, they still offer more privacy than going without them.
Firewalls Are Vital for Security: 5 Reasons You Need One
You’ve likely heard of VPNs and antivirus software as essential tools that help maintain your online security and privacy, but firewalls often get little to no attention. However, they’re just as important when it comes to protecting your devices and data, especially given the growing number of cybersecurity risks. If you value your online safety, there are five reasons a personal firewall is a must-have.
Change These 5 Settings to Speed Up Your Antivirus
Anyone who’s ever used an antivirus knows that it can be a bit of a pain when a scan starts unexpectedly, as it can take forever and slow your computer down while it’s running. Thankfully, there are a few antivirus tricks you can use to speed up that virus scan.
What Is Doxing, and Do You Need to Worry About It?
Doxing is short for “dropping dox,” with “dox” simply being an abbreviation of “documents.” It sounds like a harmless thing to do, but victims of doxing would definitely disagree.
Want to Secure Your Home? This Is What the NSA Says to Do
The National Security Agency (NSA) knows a thing or two about keeping data safe. While its primary focus is on protecting federal and critical infrastructure, the NSA sometimes gives regular folks like you and me tips on securing our home networks.
I Got a Suspicious Link in a Text Message: Here’s How I Checked It Safely
I get more spam texts in a day than real ones, and opening just one bad link could cost me—phishing scams, stolen data, and even malware. So when a sketchy text pops up, I know better than to tap blindly.