This week in scams, attackers are leaning hard on familiar brands, everyday tools, and routine behavior to trigger fast, unthinking reactions. From fake Netflix billing alerts to malicious browser extensions and QR code phishing tied to foreign espionage, the common thread is trust being weaponized at exactly the right moment. 

Every week, this roundup breaks down the scam and cybersecurity stories making news and explains how they actually work, so readers can better recognize risk and avoid being manipulated. 

Let’s get into it. 

Netflix Billing Emails Are Back… And Still Catching People Off Guard 

The big picture: Subscription phishing is resurging, with scammers impersonating Netflix and using fake billing failures to push victims into handing over payment details. 

What happened: Multiple Netflix impersonation emails circulated again this month, warning recipients that a payment failed and urging them to “update payment” to avoid service interruption. The messages closely mirror Netflix’s real branding and include polished formatting, official-looking language, and even PDF attachments designed to feel like legitimate billing notices. 

What makes these scams effective is timing. Victims often receive them while actively reviewing subscriptions, updating payment methods, or considering canceling services. That context lowers skepticism just enough for a quick click before slowing down to verify. 

McAfee’s Scam Detector flagged the messages (which one of our own employees received this week) as phishing, confirming they were designed to steal payment information rather than resolve a real billing issue. 

Red flags to watch for: 

• Unexpected billing problems paired with urgent calls to act 
• Payment requests delivered by email instead of inside the app 
• Attachments or buttons asking you to “fix” account issues 
• Sender addresses that don’t match official Netflix domains 

How this scam works: This is classic brand impersonation phishing. Scammers don’t need to hack Netflix itself. They rely on people recognizing the logo, trusting the message, and reacting emotionally to the idea of losing access. The attachment and clean design help bypass instinctive spam filters in the brain, even when technical filters catch it later. 

Netflix has warned customers about these scams and offers advice on its site if you encounter one.

What to do instead: If you get a billing alert, don’t click. Open the Netflix app or manually type the site address to check your account. If there’s no issue there, the email wasn’t real. 

Fake Ad Blocker Crashes Browsers to Push “Fix It” Malware 

The big picture: Attackers are exploiting browser crashes themselves as a social engineering tool, turning technical disruption into a pathway for malware installation. 

What happened: Researchers reported a malvertising campaign promoting a fake ad-blocking browser extension called “NexShield,” which falsely claimed to be created by the developer of a well-known, legitimate ad blocker. Once installed, the extension intentionally overwhelmed the browser, causing freezes, crashes, and system instability. 

After restart, victims were shown fake security warnings instructing them to “fix” the problem by running commands on their own computer. Following those instructions triggered the download of a remote access tool capable of spying, executing commands, and installing additional malware. The reporting was first detailed by Bleeping Computer, with technical analysis from security researchers. 

Red flags to watch for: 

• Browser extensions promising performance boosts or “ultimate” protection 
• Crashes immediately after installing a new extension 
• Pop-ups instructing you to run commands manually 
• “Security fixes” that require copying and pasting code 

How this scam works: This is a variant of ClickFix attacks. Instead of faking a problem, attackers cause a real one, then position themselves as the solution. The crash creates urgency and confusion, making people more likely to follow instructions they’d normally question. It turns frustration into compliance. 

FBI Warns QR Code Phishing Is Being Used for Cyber Espionage 

The big picture: QR codes are being used as stealth phishing tools, with highly targeted attacks tied to foreign intelligence operations. 

What happened: The Federal Bureau of Investigation issued a warning about QR code phishing, or “quishing,” campaigns linked to a North Korean government-backed hacking group. According to reporting by Fox News, attackers sent emails containing QR codes that redirected victims to fake login pages or malware-hosting sites. 

In some cases, simply visiting the site allowed attackers to collect device data, location details, and system information, even if no credentials were entered. These campaigns are highly targeted, often aimed at professionals in policy, research, and technology sectors. 

Red flags to watch for: 

• QR codes sent by email or messaging apps 
• QR codes leading to login pages for work tools or cloud services 
• Messages that feel personalized but unexpected 
• Requests to scan instead of click 

How this scam works: QR codes hide the destination URL, removing the visual cues people rely on to judge safety. Because scanning feels faster and more “passive” than clicking a link, people often skip verification entirely. That moment of trust is what attackers exploit. 

Read our ultimate guide to “quishing” and how to spot and avoid QR code scams here. 

McAfee’s Safety Tips for This Week 

• Verify inside official apps. Billing or security issues should be confirmed directly in the app or website you normally use, not through email links or QR codes. 
• Treat extensions like software installs. Only install browser extensions from trusted publishers you already know, and remove anything that causes instability. 
• Slow down with QR codes. If a QR code leads to a login page or download, close it and navigate manually instead. 
• Watch for urgency + familiarity. Scammers increasingly rely on brands, tools, and behaviors you already trust to short-circuit caution. 

McAfee will be back next week with another roundup of the scams making headlines and the practical steps you can take to stay safer online. 

The post This Week in Scams: Netflix Phishing and QR Code Espionage appeared first on McAfee Blog.

Microsoft users across the U.S. experienced widespread disruptions Thursday after a technical failure prevented people from sending or receiving email through Outlook, a core service within Microsoft 365. 

The outage occurred during U.S. business hours and quickly affected schools, government offices, and companies that rely on Outlook for daily operations. Microsoft confirmed the issue publicly and said it was working to restore service. There is no indication the disruption was caused by a cyberattack, according to company statements.

Still, McAfee warns in these situations to be wary of phishing attempts as scammers latch onto these outages to take advantage of innocent users. 

“Outages like this create uncertainty, and scammers move fast to take advantage of it,” said Steve Grobman, McAfee’s Chief Technology Officer. “When people can’t get into email or the tools they use every day, it’s easy to assume something is wrong with your account — and that’s exactly the moment attackers look for.”

“Fake alerts start circulating that look like they’re coming from the real company, with logos and urgent language telling you to reset a password or verify your information,” Grobman added. “Some push fake support numbers or messages claiming they can restore access. If you’re impacted, slow down, go straight to the official source for updates, and don’t share passwords, verification codes, or payment details in response to an unexpected message.”

“Tools that can spot suspicious links and fake login pages help reduce risk — especially when people are trying to get back online quickly,” Grobman said.

Here, we break down what happened and why outages are prime time for scammers.

What happened to Microsoft Outlook? 

A Microsoft infrastructure failure disrupted email delivery. 

Microsoft said the outage was caused by a portion of its North American service infrastructure that was failing to properly handle traffic. Users attempting to send or receive email encountered a “451 4.3.2 temporary server issue” error message.

Microsoft also warned that related services, including OneDrive search and SharePoint Online, could experience slowdowns or intermittent failures during the incident.

When did the Microsoft outage happen? 

The disruption unfolded over several hours on Thursday afternoon (ET). 

Based on timelines reported by CNBC and live coverage from Tom’s Guide, the outage progressed as follows: 

Around 2:00 p.m. ET: User reports spike across Microsoft services, especially Outlook, according to Down Detector data cited by Tom’s Guide.

2:37 p.m. ET: Microsoft confirms it is investigating an Outlook email issue, per CNBC.

3:17 p.m. ET: Microsoft says it identified misrouted traffic tied to infrastructure problems in North America, CNBC reports.

4:14 p.m. ET: The company announces affected infrastructure has been restored and traffic is being redirected to recover service.

Tom’s Guide reported that while outage reports declined after Microsoft’s fix, some users continued to experience intermittent access issues as systems rebalanced. 

Was this a hack or cyberattack? 

No. Microsoft says the outage was caused by technical infrastructure issues. 

According to CNBC, Microsoft has not indicated that the outage was the result of hacking, ransomware, or any external attack. Instead, the company attributed the disruption to internal infrastructure handling errors, similar to a previous Outlook outage last July that lasted more than 21 hours. 

A message sent by Microsoft about the server issue.

Why outages  cause widespread disruption 

Modern work depends on shared cloud infrastructure. 

That sudden loss of access often leaves users unsure whether: 

• Their account has been compromised 
• Their data is at risk 
• They need to take immediate action 

That uncertainty is exactly what scammers look for. 

How scammers exploit big tech outages

They impersonate the company and trick users into signing in again. 

After major outages involving Microsoft, Google, or Amazon Web Services, security researchers, including McAfee, have observed scam campaigns emerge within hours. 

These scams typically work by: 

Impersonating Microsoft using logos, branding, and language copied from real outage notices 

Sending fake “service restoration” emails or texts claiming users must re-authenticate 

Linking to realistic login pages designed to steal Microsoft usernames and passwords 

Posing as IT support or Microsoft support and directing users to fake phone numbers 

Once credentials are stolen, attackers can access email accounts, reset passwords on other services, or launch further phishing attacks from a trusted address. 

How to stay safe during a Microsoft outage 

Outages are confusing. Scammers rely on urgency and familiarity. 

To reduce risk: 

• Do not click links in emails or texts about outages or “account recovery.” 
• Go directly to official sources, such as Microsoft’s status page or verified social accounts. 
• Never re-enter your password through links sent during an outage. 
• Ignore urgent fixes that ask for downloads, payments, or credentials. 

If you already clicked or entered information: 

• Change your Microsoft password immediately 
• Update passwords anywhere you reused it 
• Turn on or refresh two-factor authentication 
• Review recent account activity 
• Run a trusted security scan to remove malicious software (check out our free trial) 

How McAfee can help 

Using advanced artificial intelligence, McAfee’s built-in Scam Detector automatically detects scams across text, email, and video, blocks dangerous links, and identifies deepfakes, helping stop harm before it happens. 

McAfee’s identity protection tools also monitor for signs your personal information may be exposed and guide you through recovery if scammers gain access. 

FAQ 

Q: Is Microsoft Outlook still down? A: Microsoft said Thursday afternoon that it had restored affected infrastructure and was redirecting traffic to recover service, according to CNBC. Some users may still experience intermittent issues.

Q: Was the Microsoft outage caused by hackers? A: No. Microsoft has not reported any cyberattack or data breach related to the outage, per CNBC.

Q: Can scammers really use outages to steal accounts? A: Yes. During major outages, scammers often impersonate companies like Microsoft and trick users into signing in again on fake websites.

Q: Should I reset my password after an outage? A: Only if you clicked a suspicious link or entered your credentials somewhere outside Microsoft’s official site. Otherwise, resetting passwords isn’t necessary.

 

The post Today’s Microsoft Outage Explained and Why it Triggers a Scam Playbook appeared first on McAfee Blog.

You thought you were scanning a menu. 

Or paying for parking. Or checking a package notice taped to your door. A quick scan, a familiar logo, a page that loads instantly on your phone. 

Nothing about it felt risky. 

That’s exactly why QR code scams are spreading so quickly. 

QR codes have become part of everyday life. They’re on restaurant tables, public signs, emails, mailers, and payment screens. We’re taught to treat them as shortcuts—faster than typing a URL, easier than downloading an app, safer than clicking a link. 

Scammers know that. 

Instead of asking you to click something suspicious, they ask you to scan something ordinary. Once you do, you can be routed to fake login pages, payment requests, or malicious sites designed to steal your information before you realize anything is wrong. 

This tactic has a name: quishing.

And as QR codes continue to replace links in the real world, understanding how quishing works is essential to staying safe online. 

What Is Quishing? 

Quishing is a form of phishing that uses QR codes instead of clickable links to trick people into visiting malicious websites or giving up sensitive information. 

The term combines QR and phishing, and it reflects a simple but dangerous shift in scam tactics: instead of asking you to click, scammers ask you to scan. 

Once scanned, a fake QR code can lead to: 

• Credential-harvesting login pages 
• Payment requests or fake invoices 
• Malware downloads 
• Fake customer support portals 
• Subscription traps 

Because QR codes don’t show a visible URL before you scan, they remove one of the most important scam warning signs people rely on. 

Common QR Code Scams to Watch Out For

While quishing attacks vary, most fall into a few predictable patterns.

1. Fake parking and payment QR codes

Scammers place stickers over legitimate parking meter QR codes. When scanned, victims are taken to fake payment pages that steal card details.

Red flag: A QR code that asks for full payment details without redirecting to a known parking or city service.

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2. Restaurant menu swaps

Fraudsters replace real menu QR codes with fake ones that redirect to phishing pages or malicious downloads.

Red flag: A menu page that asks you to “sign in,” download an app, or confirm personal details.

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3. Delivery and package alerts

Flyers or door tags claim you missed a delivery and instruct you to scan a QR code to reschedule.

Red flag: Vague delivery details and pressure to act quickly.

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4. Fake account security warnings

QR codes claim your bank, streaming service, or email account needs verification.

Red flag: Any QR code that demands immediate action for “security reasons.”

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5. Subscription traps and fake offers

Some QR codes promise discounts, refunds, or rewards but quietly enroll users in recurring charges.

Red flag: Fine print that’s hard to find, or missing entirely.

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What Makes Quishing Especially Dangerous

QR scams succeed not because people are careless, but because they exploit trust and routine.

Unlike traditional phishing emails, quishing:

• Happens offline and online at the same time
• Often appears in trusted physical locations
• Feels faster and more “legit”
• Bypasses visual link inspection

Once a victim lands on a fake site, the damage can escalate quickly, from stolen credentials to drained accounts to identity theft.

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How to Spot a Fake QR Code Before You Scan

You don’t need to avoid QR codes entirely, but you do need to slow down.

Check the physical context

Is the QR code taped on, scratched, or layered over another code? That’s a common tactic.

Look for branding inconsistencies

Misspellings, generic logos, or mismatched colors are red flags.

Preview the link

Most phone cameras now show the URL before opening it. Take a second to read it.

Be skeptical of urgency

Any QR code that pressures you to act immediately deserves extra scrutiny.

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How to Protect Yourself From QR Scams

Step 1: Treat QR codes like links

A QR code is a shortcut to a website. Apply the same caution you would to any link.

Step 2: Avoid entering sensitive information

Legitimate services rarely ask for passwords, payment info, or personal details via QR codes.

Step 3: Use mobile security tools

Security software can help detect malicious sites and block risky downloads before damage is done.

Step 4: When in doubt, go direct

Instead of scanning, manually visit the official website or app you trust.

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What to Do If You Scanned a Suspicious QR Code

If you think you interacted with a malicious QR code:

• Stop engaging with the site immediately
• Do not enter additional information
• Monitor your financial accounts for unusual activity
• Change passwords if credentials were entered
• Run a security scan on your device, check out our free trial
• Report the incident to the business or location involved

Early action can limit long-term fallout.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is quishing in simple terms?
Quishing is phishing that uses QR codes to trick people into visiting fake or malicious websites.

Are QR codes inherently unsafe?
No, but they can be exploited. The risk comes from where they lead, not the code itself.

Can scanning a QR code install malware?
In some cases, yes, especially if it prompts a download or redirects to a malicious site.

Are QR scams increasing?
Yes. As QR codes become more common, scammers are increasingly using them to bypass traditional defenses.

The post What Is Quishing? How QR Code Scams Work and How to Avoid Them appeared first on McAfee Blog.

If a message popped up in your feed tomorrow promising a cash refund, a surprise giveaway, or a limited-time crypto opportunity, would you pause long enough to question it? 

That split second matters more than ever.

Most modern scams don’t rely on panic or obvious red flags. They rely on familiarity. On things that feel normal. On moments that seem too small to question. 

And those moments are exactly what scammers exploit. 

Why Today’s Scams Are So Easy to Fall For 

There was a time when spotting a scam was relatively straightforward. The emails were badly written. The websites looked rushed. The warnings were obvious. 

Scammers don’t just rely on obvious spam or panic-driven messages. Instead, many now use: 

• Friendly, natural language 
• Faces of celebrities and figures you trust 
• Messages that arrive through trusted apps 
• Conversations that unfold gradually 
• Requests that feel routine instead of suspicious 

McAfee’s Celebrity Deepfake Deception research shows how common and convincing these scams have become: 72% of Americans say they’ve seen a fake or AI-generated celebrity endorsement, and 39% say they’ve clicked on one that turned out to be fraudulent. When scam content shows up in the same feeds, apps, and formats people use every day, it feels normal. 

That’s the danger zone. It’s also why McAfee chose to use a familiar, culturally recognizable moment to talk about a much bigger issue.

Why McAfee Partnered with Pat McAfee 

Whether you’ve been saying mack-uh-fee or mick-affy, the long-running name mix-up is harmless in everyday conversation. 

Online, though, small moments of confusion can have outsized consequences. 

Scammers rely on quick assumptions: that a familiar name means legitimacy, that a recognizable face means trust, that a message arriving in the right place must be real. They move fast, hoping people act before stopping to verify 

Pat McAfee knows firsthand how scammers exploit familiarity and trust. 

In recent months, fake social media giveaways promising cash and prizes have circulated using Pat’s likeness, and even a fraudulent “American Heart Association fundraiser” made the rounds, falsely claiming he was collecting donations. 

Pat wants his fans to know: if you ever see a giveaway, fundraiser, or message claiming to be from him, double-check it on his official channels first. If it feels off, it probably is. 

Unfortunately, these scams work because people trust Pat. Scammers exploit that trust to lower people’s guard and make fraudulent requests feel legitimate. 

It’s the same tactic used across countless impersonation scams today: borrow the authority of a familiar face, add a sense of urgency, and move fast before anyone stops to verify, “is this legit?” We’ve seen it happen with Taylor Swift, Tom Hanks, Al Roker, Brad Pitt, and numerous others. 

Remember, no legitimate giveaway will ask for payment, banking details, login credentials, or account access. And no nonprofit fundraiser tied to a celebrity should ever come from a personal message or unfamiliar social account. 

Watch: Pat McAfee Explains How McAfee Is More Than an Antivirus 

In the video below, Pat McAfee playfully demonstrates how easily familiar moments online can turn into risk, and why digital safety today can’t rely on perfect judgment alone. 

 

How to Protect Yourself Right Now 

You don’t have to stop using your favorite platforms. But you do have to change how you verify online threats. 

Before You Trust Any Urgent Message or Offer: 

• Be skeptical of sudden financial opportunities 
• Assume giveaways that require payment or credentials are scams 
• Never connect accounts, wallets, or payment methods from social links 
• Verify claims on official websites, not just inside apps 
• Be cautious of messages that replace clear context with urgency 

If a video or message feels real but the request feels extreme, that’s a red flag. 

McAfee offers more than traditional antivirus, combining multiple layers of digital protection in one app 

• Scam Detector to help flag suspicious messages and links 
• Safe Browsing tools to help block risky websites 
• VPN to keep your connection private on public Wi-Fi 
• Identity Monitoring and Alerts to notify you if your personal information appears where it shouldn’t 
• Personal Data Cleanup to help remove your information from high-risk data broker sites 
• Device and Account Security to help protect the things you use most 

Final Takeaway 

If a scam looks obvious, most people won’t fall for it. 

But modern scams don’t look obvious. They look familiar. They use your favorite faces. They look normal. They look safe. And that’s where people get hurt. 

Staying safe now means slowing down, verifying independently, and having protection work quietly in the background while you stay focused on what you actually came online to do. 

McAfee’s built-in Scam Detector, included in all core plans, automatically detects scams across text, email, and video, blocks dangerous sites, and identifies deepfakes, stopping harm before it happens. 

And because today’s risks aren’t just about what you click, a VPN and Personal Data Cleanup add additional layers of defense by helping protect your connection and limit how much personal information is available to be exploited in the first place. 

Ready to get Pat’s Picks? Learn more here. 

FAQs 

For clarity, and because these questions come up often, here’s the straightforward explanation: 

Q: Is Pat McAfee the founder of McAfee antivirus? A: No. Pat McAfee is not associated with the founding or leadership of McAfee. McAfee was founded by John McAfee and operates independently.

Q: Are Pat McAfee and McAfee the same company? A: No. Pat McAfee is a sports media personality. McAfee is a cybersecurity company. They are separate entities.

Q: Why does McAfee work with Pat McAfee? A: McAfee partnered with Pat McAfee to raise awareness about online scams, impersonation fraud, and digital safety using culturally relevant examples.

 

The post McAfee and Pat McAfee Turn a Name Mix-Up Into a Push for Online Safety appeared first on McAfee Blog.

Google has officially discontinued its Dark Web Report, the tool that alerted users when their personal information appeared in dark web breach databases. New scans stop on January 15, 2026, and on February 16, 2026, Google will permanently delete all data associated with the feature. 

This does not mean Google.com or Google Accounts are going away. It means Google is no longer scanning the dark web for leaked data tied to your account, and it is no longer storing or updating any breach information that was collected for the report. 

For people who relied on Google’s alerts, this change creates a real gap. After January 16, you will no longer get new notifications if your information shows up in breach databases. That is why it is worth taking a few minutes now to lock down the basics. 

According to reporting from TechCrunch, Google said it ended the service after concluding that it did not give users enough clarity about what to do once their data was found. 

That decision highlights a much larger shift in online security: Finding leaked data is no longer enough. Protecting identity is now the real challenge. 

What did Google’s Dark Web Report do? 

The Dark Web Report was a Google Account feature that searched known data breach dumps and dark web marketplaces for personal information tied to a user, such as email addresses, phone numbers, and other identifiers. 

If Google found a match, it sent an alert. 

What it did not do was show which accounts were at risk, whether financial or government ID data was involved, or how to prevent fraud from happening next. That gap is why some users said the tool fell short. 

What is the dark web, and why does  stolen data end up there? 

The internet has three layers: 

1. The surface web is what search engines index. 
2. The deep web includes anything behind a login, like email, banking, and medical portals. 
3. The dark web is a hidden part of the deep web that is not indexed by search engines and is accessed through specialized networks or browsers like Tor. 

The dark web is where data from breaches is commonly sold, traded, and packaged for scams. When a company is hacked, stolen files often end up in dark web databases that include email addresses, passwords, Social Security numbers, bank details, and full identity profiles. 

Scammers use this data to commit account takeovers, financial fraud, tax fraud, and identity theft.  

Even without passwords, this personal information can be enough for scammers to target you with convincing phishing and social engineering scams.  

How to check if your personal information is on the dark web: 

Looking up an email address is no longer enough. Modern identity theft relies on things like Social Security numbers, government IDs, bank and credit card numbers, tax records, insurance data, usernames, and phone numbers. 

To understand whether any of that is exposed, people need to monitor the dark web for identity-level data, not just logins. 

Here is what that looks like in practice: 

• Scan breach databases for government ID numbers and financial data 
• Look for full identity profiles being sold or traded 
• Match leaked records back to real people 

Tools like McAfee’s Identity Monitoring are designed to look for those types of data so you can act before fraud happens. 

Have 30 minutes right now? Do this: 

Been meaning to bolster your security? Here are three quick ways you can enhance your identity protection and reduce real-world damage in a breach: 

Freeze your credit

Estimated time: 10 minutes 

This is a powerful free protection option that many forget about. A credit freeze blocks anyone from opening new loans, credit cards, or accounts in your name, even if they have your Social Security number and full identity profile. 

You can do this for free with any of the major credit bureaus. If you do it with one, the others are notified. 

Why this matters: Most identity theft today is not account hacking. It is criminals opening accounts in your name. A credit freeze stops that cold. 

 

Set up fraud and login alerts on your financial accounts 

Estimated time: 10 minutes 

Go into your main bank and credit card apps and turn on: 

• Login alerts
• Transaction alerts
• Password or profile change alerts
• These are not the same as marketing notifications. They tell you when someone is trying to access or move money. 

You’ll find these somewhere under Settings>Alerts.

Why this matters: Identity thieves often test stolen data with small charges or login attempts before stealing larger amounts. These alerts are how you catch it early.

Lock down account recovery paths

Estimated time: 10 minutes 

This is one of the most overlooked vulnerabilities. 

Go into: 

• Your email account 
• Your Apple ID or Google account 

Check and update: 

• Recovery email 
• Recovery phone number 
• Backup codes 
• Trusted devices 

Remove anything you do not recognize. 

Why this matters: Even if you change your password, attackers can still take over accounts through recovery systems if those are compromised. This closes that back door. 

 

FAQ: 

Is Google deleting my Google Account data? No. Google is only deleting the data it collected specifically for the Dark Web Report feature. Your Gmail, Drive, Photos, and other Google Account data are not affected.

Is Google still protecting my account from hackers? Yes. Google continues to offer security features like two-factor authentication, login alerts, and account recovery tools. What it removed is the dark web scanning and alert system tied to breach data.

Does the dark web report website still exist? No. After February 16, 2026, Google no longer operates or updates the Dark Web Report feature. There is no active scanning, no dashboard, and no stored breach data tied to it.

Does this mean dark web monitoring is useless? No. It means email-only monitoring is not enough. Criminals use far more than emails to commit fraud, which is why identity-level monitoring is now more important.

What kind of information is most dangerous if it appears on the dark web? Social Security numbers, government IDs, bank and credit card numbers, tax records, insurance IDs, usernames, and phone numbers are the data types most commonly used for identity theft and financial fraud.

How can I check if my information is exposed right now? You can use an identity monitoring service like McAfee that scans dark web sources for sensitive personal data, not just email addresses. That is how people can see whether their identity is being traded or abused today.

 

The post Google Ends Dark Web Report. What That Means and How to Stay Safe appeared first on McAfee Blog.

Hackers are not created equal, nor do they have the same purpose. Some hackers are paid to scrutinize security systems, find loopholes, fix weaknesses, and ultimately protect organizations and people. Others exploit those same gaps for profit, power, or disruption. What separates hackers isn’t just skill level or tactics; it’s intent. 

The purpose behind an attack changes everything about how hackers shape their tactics and how the hacking process unfolds: who is targeted, which methods and tools are used, how patient the attacker is, and the kind of damage they want to cause.

The primary motivations behind these cyberattacks fall into several categories, from financial gain to recognition, and sometimes even coercion. Each driver creates different risk scenarios for your digital life, from your home banking sessions to your workplace communications. Understanding a hacker’s motivations will enable you to better protect yourself and recognize potential threats in both your personal and professional life. 

In this article, we’ll look at the main types of hackers you might encounter, the core motivations and mindset that drive these cyberattacks, and finally, how you can protect yourself against these attacks.

Good and bad hackers

From its beginnings as an intellectual exploration in universities, hacking was driven by curiosity, learning, and the thrill of solving complex problems. Today, it has become industrialized with organized criminal groups and state-sponsored actors entering the scene. 

Modern hacking has seen the emergence of advanced persistent threats and nation-state campaigns targeting critical infrastructure and combining traditional techniques with artificial intelligence. To better understand the types of hackers, here is a window into what they do and why:

White hat hackers

These are the good guys, typically computer security experts who specialize in penetration testing and other methodologies to ensure that a company’s information systems are secure. These IT security professionals rely on a constantly evolving arsenal of technology to battle hackers.

Black hat hackers

These are the bad guys, who are typically referred to as just plain hackers. The term is often used specifically for hackers who break into networks or computers, or create computer viruses. Unfortunately, black hat hackers continue to technologically outpace white hats, often finding the path of least resistance, whether due to human error or laziness, or with a new type of attack. Hacking purists often use the term “crackers” to refer to black hat hackers, whose motivation is generally to get paid.

Script kiddies

This is a derogatory term for black hat hackers who use borrowed programs to attack networks and deface websites in an attempt to make names for themselves. Script kiddies, sometimes called script kitties, might be beginners, but don’t be fooled by their newbie status. With the right tools and right targets, they can wreak as much havoc as a seasoned hacker.

Hacktivists

Some hacker activists are motivated by politics or religion, while others aim to expose wrongdoing or exact revenge. Activists typically target government agencies, public services, and organizations involved in controversial issues related to defense, elections, wars, finance, or social movements. They also attack high-profile individuals, such as executives, public figures, journalists, and activists.

State-sponsored hackers

State-sponsored hackers have limitless time and funding to target civilians, corporations, other governments, or even prominent citizens connected to a larger objective. Their motivations are driven by their government’s strategic goals: gathering intelligence, stealing sensitive research or intellectual property, influencing public perception, or disrupting critical infrastructure. Because they are playing a long game, state-sponsored hackers are stealthy and persistent, quietly embedding themselves in systems, mapping networks, and waiting for the right moment to act.

Spy hackers

Corporations hire hackers to infiltrate their competitors and steal trade secrets, including product designs, source code, pricing plans, customer lists, legal documents, and merger or acquisition strategies. They may hack from the outside or gain employment in order to act as a mole, impersonating recruiters, partners, or vendors to get insiders to share access. They also take advantage of weak internal controls, such as excessive permissions, unsecured file-sharing links, or poor offboarding practices. Spy hackers may use similar tactics as hacktivists or state-sponsored espionage on a smaller scale: stealthy entry, careful privilege escalation, and long-term persistence to avoid triggering alarms. The stolen data is often not leaked publicly but delivered directly to the client and used behind the scenes.

Cyber terrorists

These hackers, generally motivated by religious or political beliefs, attempt to create terror, chaos, and real-world harm by disrupting critical infrastructures such as power grids, water systems, transportation networks, hospitals, emergency services, and government operations. They combine cyber operations with propaganda campaigns and physical attacks on the systems people rely on to live safely to create turmoil far beyond the screen. 

Understand hackers’ motivations

Cybercriminals aren’t just faceless entities; they’re driven by specific goals that shape their tactics and targets. Understanding their motivations empowers you to recognize potential threats and better protect yourself, your family, and colleagues.

Financial gain

Money remains the most common motivator. These profit-driven attacks directly impact your personal finances through methods such as ransomware, credit card fraud, and identity theft. In your home, financially motivated hackers target your banking apps, shopping accounts, and personal devices to steal payment information or hold your data hostage. In the workplace, they focus on payroll systems, customer databases, and business banking credentials.

Ideological motivations

Ideologically driven hackers, called hacktivists, pursue political or social causes through cyber means. These attacks can disrupt services that you rely on daily, from public utilities to private organizations that provide essential services or take public stances on divisive issues. Your best defense involves staying informed about potential disruptions and maintaining backup communication methods for essential services.

Curiosity and learning

Many hackers begin their journey with genuine curiosity about how systems work. They might probe your home network, test website security, or experiment with app vulnerabilities, not necessarily for malicious purposes, but their activities can still expose your data or disrupt services. In professional environments, these individuals might target systems or databases simply to see if they can gain access.

Recognition and reputation building

Some hackers seek fame, respect within hacker communities, or professional advancement rather than immediate financial benefit. They often target high-profile individuals, popular websites, or well-known companies to maximize the visibility for their exploits. If you have a significant social media following, your accounts could become targets for these attacks. They might also focus on defacing company or government websites, or leaking non-sensitive but embarrassing information.

State and corporate intelligence

Nation-state and corporate espionage are some of the most sophisticated threats in cyberspace, making it a top national security concern for both government and private sector. These operations compromise daily services and infrastructure such as internet service providers, email platforms, or cloud storage services to gather intelligence such as intellectual property, customer lists, or strategic planning documents. 

Coercion and extortion

Some hackers use cyber capabilities to intimidate or coerce victims into specific actions. In the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center report for 2024, extortion was the 2nd top cybercrime by number of complaints, demonstrating the growing prevalence of coercion-based attacks. Coercion might involve compromising personal photos, social media accounts, or private communications to demand payment or behavioral changes. Workplace coercion could target executives with embarrassing information or threaten to leak sensitive business data unless demands are met. 

The intersection of motivations

Many real-world attacks combine multiple motivations—a financially driven criminal might also seek recognition within hacker communities, or an ideological hacker might generate revenue through ransomware. The contrast between ethical hacker motivations and malicious ones often lies in the permission, legality, and intent. Understanding why people become hackers helps you recognize that not all hacking activity is inherently malicious, although all unauthorized access ultimately poses risks to your security and privacy.

The psychology behind cyberattacks

Understanding the psychology behind cyberattacks gives you a powerful advantage in protecting yourself. When you know what drives hackers, you can better spot their tactics and stay one step ahead.

High reward, low risk

Many hackers operate with the goal of achieving high reward for perceived low risk. This risk-reward imbalance motivates attackers because they can potentially access valuable personal or financial information while remaining physically distant from their victims. This means hackers often target easy opportunities, such as when you click on suspicious links or download questionable attachments, to gain access with minimal effort. For instance, a hacker would rather send 10,000 phishing emails hoping for a few bites than attempt one complex, risky attack.

Exploiting normal human responses 

Hackers exploit well-known psychological shortcuts your brain takes. They understand that you’re more likely to trust familiar-looking emails, act quickly under pressure, or follow authority figures without question. These aren’t weaknesses, these are normal human responses that attackers deliberately manipulate. For example, urgent messages claiming your account will be closed create an artificial time pressure, making you more likely to click without thinking.

The power of group dynamics

Many successful cyberattacks leverage the human tendency to follow what others are doing. Hackers create fake social media profiles, forge customer reviews, or impersonate colleagues to make their requests seem legitimate and widely accepted. In ransomware attacks targeting businesses, criminals often research company hierarchies and communication styles to make their demands appear to come from trusted sources within the organization. 

The gamification of cybercrime

Modern hacking has elements that make it feel like a game to perpetrators. Some online forums award points for successful attacks, creating competition and recognition among criminals. This helps explain why some hackers target individuals rather than large corporations, as every successful phishing attempt becomes a score, and why attacks continue to evolve. 

Common hacking methods

Hackers don’t all use the same tricks, but most successful attacks rely on a familiar toolkit of methods that exploit common technical gaps and human habits. Recognizing these common techniques will help you avoid danger earlier on.

• Phishing and smishing. These attacks trick you into revealing sensitive information through fraudulent emails or text messages, respectively known as phishing and smishing. Modern attackers increasingly use AI-generated content and sophisticated social engineering techniques that make these messages appear more legitimate than ever before. 
• Credential stuffing. Cybercriminals use automated tools to test stolen username and password combinations across multiple websites, exploiting the fact that many people reuse passwords. This attack method has become more efficient with attackers leveraging large-scale data breaches and improved automation tools.
• Multi-factor authentication (MFA) fatigue. Attackers repeatedly send multi-factor authentication requests until overwhelmed, frustrated, and confused users approve one. This technique has gained prominence as more organizations adopt MFA, with attackers finding ways to exploit user behavior around security notifications. 
• Malvertising. Malicious advertisements on legitimate websites can install malware or redirect you to harmful sites without requiring any clicks. Recent trends show attackers using sophisticated techniques to bypass ad network security filters. 
• Remote desktop attacks. Hackers exploit weak or default passwords on remote desktop services to gain unauthorized access to systems, particularly targeting businesses with remote work setups. The rise of hybrid work environments since 2023 has made this attack vector increasingly attractive to cybercriminals. Disable remote desktop services when not needed and use VPNs with strong authentication for legitimate remote access.
• USB baiting. Attackers leave infected USB devices in public places, hoping curious individuals will plug them into their computers, automatically installing malware. Modern USB attacks can execute within seconds of being connected, making them particularly dangerous in today’s fast-paced work environment.

• Unsecured Wi-Fi networks. Unsecured public Wi-Fi and home networks create opportunities for hackers to gain access to your devices or intercept your sensitive information, such as passwords, emails, and banking details. Sometimes, cybercriminals create fake Wi-Fi hotspots with legitimate-sounding names to trick users into connecting.
• Unsafe downloads. Hackers disguise malicious software as legitimate programs, games, documents, or updates to trick users into installing them. These malicious downloads may come from infected email attachments, fake or pirated software, or even compromised websites. Once installed, the malware can steal your information, lock your files for ransom, or give hackers access to your computer.

• Tech support scams. Tech support scams rely on social engineering rather than technical exploits, where scammers typically contact you by phone and insist your computer has been infected or compromised. They create urgency and fear to convince you to install remote access software that gives them complete control of your computer. Once they have access, they can steal personal information, install malware, or hold your files hostage.

• Outdated software. Running outdated software creates security vulnerabilities that hackers actively leverage. When software developers discover security vulnerabilities, they release patches to fix these problems. If you don’t install these updates promptly, your system remains vulnerable to attacks. Hackers maintain databases of unpatched systems and use automated tools to find and exploit them.

Defensive tips to protect yourself from hack attacks

Your strongest defense against hacking combines technical safeguards, security awareness, and some consistent habits that shut down the most common paths attackers use. Here’s how to put those defenses in place and make your digital life a much harder target.

• Install comprehensive security software. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency recommends a layered security approach to prevent multiple types of threats simultaneously. Choose a reputable security suite that offers real-time protection, anti-malware scanning, and web browsing safety features. 
• Enable MFA everywhere. Add an extra security layer to all your important accounts: email, banking, social media, and work platforms. Only approve MFA requests that you initiated yourself, and report any unexpected authentication prompts to your IT team or service provider immediately.
• Use a password manager. Create complex, unique passwords using a trusted password manager for every account you own. The National Institute of Standards and Technology recommends passwords that are at least 12 characters long and completely unique across all your accounts to prevent credential stuffing attacks.
• Keep all software updated. Enable automatic updates for your operating system, apps, and security software, as many successful cyberattacks exploit known weaknesses that could have been prevented with timely updates.
• Secure your internet connections. Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities, and use a reputable VPN when you must connect to untrusted networks. Unsecured public networks make it easy for attackers to intercept your data and credentials.
• Implement the 3-2-1 backup strategy. Regular, tested backups are your best defense against ransomware and data loss incidents. Keep three copies of important data—on your device, on an external drive, and in secure cloud storage. 
• Develop scam-spotting skills. Scammers continuously adapt their tactics to current events, so staying informed about the latest schemes and learning to recognize phishing emails, suspicious links, and social engineering tactics will help you stay one step ahead.
• Practice good digital hygiene. Regularly review your account permissions, remove unused apps, and monitor your financial statements for unauthorized activity to lessen your exposure to identity theft and privacy breaches.

• Monitor your accounts regularly. Check bank statements, credit reports, and account activity monthly. Set up account alerts for unusual activity when available.
• Limit personal information sharing. Only provide the necessary information to companies or service providers to reduce your digital footprint. In addition, review privacy settings and avoid oversharing on social media as scammers and hackers regularly prowl these platforms. 

Final thoughts

Now that you understand hackers’ motivations and psychological drivers, you can flip the script and turn it to your advantage. Instead of being the target, become the informed defender who recognizes manipulation tactics and responds thoughtfully rather than reactively. This knowledge empowers you to spot potential threats earlier, choose stronger protective measures, and navigate the digital world with greater confidence.

When someone pressures you to act immediately, that’s your cue to slow down and verify the request. Question familiar-looking messages, even if they look official. Check the sender’s address and contact the company through official channels. Trust your instincts and investigate before acting. Stay curious and keep learning from reputable cybersecurity resources that publish current research and threat intelligence. Share these tips with your family members and friends, especially those who might be less technologically savvy. 

McAfee+ includes proactive identity surveillance to monitor subscribers’ credit and personal information, as well as access to live fraud resolution agents who can help subscribers work through the process of resolving identity theft issues.

The post 7 Types of Hacker Motivations appeared first on McAfee Blog.

Scams didn’t slow down in 2025—and all signs point to the problem getting worse in 2026.

While the final numbers aren’t in yet, reported losses are already on track to break records. Through just the first half of 2025, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) cited nearly $6.5 billion in scam-related losses, putting the year on pace to surpass 2024’s total. And it’s not just isolated incidents: 73% of Americans say they’ve experienced at least one scam or online attack.

As scams become more convincing, often powered by AI and designed to blend into everyday digital life, basic “spot the red flag” advice isn’t enough anymore. Protecting yourself now means tightening up your digital hygiene: how you manage passwords, personal data, online accounts, and the everyday tools you rely on to stay safe.

3) Keep spammers and scammers at bay by removing personal info from the internet. 

Data brokers sell all kinds of info that power all kinds of spam and scams. It’s one way spammers and scammers get contact info like emails and phone numbers, and it’s yet another way they get detailed info to target their ads and their attacks. 

For example, beyond your full name, home address, phone numbers, email addresses, and date of birth, many also have info about your family members, employment, and past purchases. Data brokers might gather and sell other info like religious and political leanings, health conditions, and employment history. Simply put, this detailed profile makes it easier for spammers and scammers to target you. 

Q&A	Q: Can people find my detailed personal info online?   Yes, and some of the easiest places to find it are on data broker sites. They collect and analyze up to hundreds of bits of personal info, often without your knowledge or consent. Further, they’ll sell it to any buyer, including scammers.

 

 

Where do they harvest this info? From public records, shopper loyalty programs, and even from app data—all kinds of sources. And that underscores the problem, some data brokers keep exhaustive amounts of data about people, all in one place.  

And they’ll sell it to anyone who pays for it. You can help reduce those scam texts and calls by removing your info from those sites. A service like our Personal Data Cleanup can do that work for you. It scans some of the riskiest data broker sites, shows you which ones are selling your personal info, and helps you remove it. 

4) Protect privacy with a VPN (it’s not just for travel anymore). 

One of the first things that comes to mind about VPNs is travel, a great way you can stay secure while using public Wi-Fi in airports and cafes. It works at home as well, giving you an extra layer of security when you bank, shop, or do anything that involves sensitive info. Yet it offers another big benefit. It helps make you more private, because it’s not just hackers who want to snoop on you online. 

Q&A Block

Q: What is a VPN?   A: A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, hides your IP address and encrypts your internet connection in a secure “tunnel” that shields your online activity from snoops, advertisers, and your Internet Service Provider (ISP).

 

For example, some ISPs collect your browsing data. In the United States and many other countries, ISPs can legally monitor and record info about the websites you visit and the apps you use. They can use it for advertising and analytics purposes, and, in some cases, they may share it with third parties. 

When you use a VPN, it encrypts all the data leaving your device and routes it through a secure server. As a result, your ISP can only see that you are connected to a VPN server, and it can’t track which websites you visit or the data you send and receive. Without a doubt, going online with a VPN makes you safer and keeps you more private.  

5) As AI scams become the norm, get a scam detector working for you. 

We saw big spikes in several types of scams over the year, and naturally a spike in reported losses followed. One reason for the jump is that AI tools have made it even easier for scammers to create convincing texts, emails, and deepfake videos designed to rip people off.   

Q&A	Q: How bad are scams today?   A: According to a 2025 Pew Research Center survey, 73% of U.S. adults said they’ve experienced at least one online scam or attack, with 32% reporting an incident within the past year.iv

 

They’re getting tougher to spot too. In the earlier days of AI-created content, you could often spot the telltale signs of a fake. That’s not always the case anymore, and scams are looking more and more sophisticated as AI tools evolve. 

But you have tools of your own. Our Scam Detector protects you across text, email, and video by spotting scams and detecting deepfake videos (like the one of a deepfaked Taylor Swift promoting a bogus cookware offer). You also have our Web Protection which detects links to scam sites and other sketchy corners of the internet while you browse. Both will alert you if a link might take you to a sketchy site. It’ll also block those sites if you accidentally tap or click on a bad link. 

6) And just in case, get the reassurance of identity theft protection. 

So, let’s say the unfortunate happens to you. You get scammed. Maybe it’s a few bucks, maybe it’s more. You’re faced with a couple issues. One, that money could be gone for good depending on how you paid the scammer. Two, also depending on the payment method, the scammer might have your financial info.   

Q&A Block

Q: What is the cost of identity theft?  A: Based on reports to the FTC, the median loss was about $500 in 2024, with more than 10% of victims claiming they lost $10,000 or more. However, it levels an emotional cost as well. The time and stress involved in resolving identity theft can be significant.

 

This is where something like our ID Theft & Restoration Coverage comes in. It gives you up to $2 million in identity theft coverage and identity restoration support if it’s determined you’re a victim of identity theft.​ Further, it puts a licensed recovery pro on the case to restore your credit and your identity, which takes that time-consuming burden off your shoulders. 

The post New Year Reset: A Quick Guide to Improving Your Digital Hygiene in 2026 appeared first on McAfee Blog.

Browser extensions have become essential parts of how we browse, bank, work, and shop online. From password managers to ad blockers, these tools can significantly improve your digital life when chosen wisely. Chief among these are browser plug-ins, which extend its functionality. Almost all popular browsers support these extensions, unfortunately, making them one of the most commonly used malware attack vectors.

In this guide, you will learn about the advantages and security risks of browser extensions, the role that permissions play in ensuring your privacy when using these extensions, and some best practices when using them.

Browser extensions and their malicious counterparts

Browser extensions are small software programs that enhance your web browser by adding new functionality or modifying existing ones. Think of them as helpful extra tools that can block ads, manage passwords, check prices while shopping, or customize how websites look and behave. Legitimate extensions make your browsing experience more efficient and enjoyable.

Cybercriminals, however, have taken advantage of their popularity by creating malicious versions disguised as useful tools that secretly operate with harmful intentions. Some of these malicious browser extensions access and modify web pages, monitor your browsing activity, and interact with websites on your behalf.

While legitimate extensions request only the minimum permissions necessary for their stated purpose, malicious extensions often request more permissions than they need to access your browsing data and history.

Core tactics of malicious browser extensions

Malicious browser extensions typically operate through specific methods that can significantly impact your daily online activities, from casual browsing to important financial transactions, including:

• Permission abuse occurs when an extension requests far more access than it needs to operate. For example, a weather extension that claims to show local forecasts might request permission to track the websites you visit, allowing it to monitor everything you do online and capture sensitive information such as passwords and credit card numbers without your knowledge.
• Ad injection is where malicious extensions insert unwanted advertisements into web pages you’re viewing, appearing as pop-ups, banner ads, or even replacing legitimate advertisements with malicious ones. These injected ads disrupt your browsing experience, can lead to scam websites, or attempt to trick you into downloading additional malware.
• Data theft is one of the most serious threats posed by malicious extensions. These programs can silently capture everything you type, including usernames, passwords, credit card information, and personal details, exposing your personal information to cybercriminals. When you log into your online banking or online shopping account, the malicious extension might record your login credentials and account information.
• Traffic redirection involves redirecting your legitimate web traffic to scam websites designed to steal your information or trick you into making fraudulent purchases. This is particularly dangerous when you’re trying to access your bank’s website or other financial services, but are redirected to a convincing fake site that could capture your login credentials.
• Drive-by downloads can be triggered by these ill-intentioned browser extensions when you visit specific websites, click on seemingly innocent links or files, or even during routine browsing activities. The links and files are disguised as legitimate software updates, media files, or useful applications that, in fact, could infect your device with ransomware, keyloggers, or other types of malware.
• Cryptocurrency mining extensions secretly use your computer’s processing power to mine cryptocurrency for the extension creator, running resource-intensive calculations in the background without your knowledge or consent. This unauthorized mining activity causes your device to run more slowly, drain your laptop battery faster, consume more electricity, generate excess heat, and potentially shorten your hardware’s lifespan.

The impact of malicious browser extensions

If not caught, malicious extensions can disrupt your daily life and compromise your personal security.

Malicious extensions violate your privacy when they monitor your online behavior and track the websites you view, build a profile of your habits and preferences, and even obtain your home address and other personal details. These details can be used for identity theft, social engineering attacks, or sold to data brokers, ultimately compromising your privacy and potentially affecting your real-world safety and financial security.

When it comes to online shopping, some malicious extensions could pressure you into hasty purchase decisions, intercept your checkout process, and capture your payment information. Once cybercriminals have your shopping account credentials, they can impersonate you to make unauthorized purchases.

Similar incidents could happen with your banking and financial accounts. Malicious browser extensions can steal your login credentials, account numbers, transaction details, and eventually your money. Some cybercriminals have gone as far as opening new accounts and applying for loans using your stolen information.

The most insidious aspect of malicious browser extensions is their ability to operate silently in the background while maintaining the appearance of legitimate functionality. A malicious extension might continue providing its advertised service—such as weather updates or price comparisons—while simultaneously conducting harmful activities, making them effective at avoiding detection.

On top of the higher electricity bills, degraded device performance and browsing experience, and wasted network bandwidth, malicious extensions violate your values by turning your device into an unwitting money-making tool for cybercriminals while you bear the operational costs. Furthermore, malicious extensions could potentially expose you to additional malware or scams, and involve you in fraudulent advertising schemes.

Their impact extends beyond your own device and could affect your entire household. On the shared networks and devices, malicious extensions can spread and compromise other users.

Guidelines to stay safe with browser extensions

Chrome extensions can absolutely be safe to use when you approach them with the right knowledge and precautions. The vast majority of extensions on the official Chrome Web Store undergo Google’s review process and are built by legitimate, reputable developers who aim to enhance your browsing experience and follow security best practices.

Additionally, the Chrome Web Store’s rating system and user reviews provide valuable insights into an extension’s reliability and performance. When you stick to well-established extensions with thousands of positive reviews and regular updates, you’re generally in safe territory.

However, the extension ecosystem does present a few security challenges. The primary risks come from two main areas: permission abuse and post-installation behavior changes. When you install an extension, you give it permission to access various aspects of your browsing data and your device. Some extensions may request more permissions than they actually need, creating potential privacy and security vulnerabilities. Even more concerning, some extensions start with benign functionality but later receive updates that introduce malicious features or get sold to malicious actors who update them with data-harvesting capabilities, turning a once-safe extension into a potential threat.

To help you navigate these challenges safely, here’s a practical risk assessment framework you can use before installing any Chrome extension. This systematic approach takes just a few minutes but can save you from potential headaches down the road.

Step 1: Evaluate the source’s reputation

Start by examining who created the extension. Look for extensions developed by well-known companies or developers with established track records. Check the developer’s website and other extensions they’ve created. Extensions from companies like Google, Microsoft, or other recognized tech firms generally carry lower risk profiles. For individual developers, look for those who maintain a professional online presence and have created multiple successful extensions.

Step 2: Analyze user reviews and ratings

Don’t just glance at the overall star rating. Read the actual reviews, look for patterns in user feedback, and pay special attention to recent comments that might indicate changes in the extension’s behavior. Be wary of extensions with suspiciously perfect ratings or reviews that seem artificially generated. Legitimate extensions typically have a mix of ratings with detailed, specific feedback from real users.

Step 3: Examine permission requests carefully

This is perhaps the most critical step in your assessment. When you click “Add to Chrome,” pay close attention to the permission dialog that appears. Question if the requested permissions make sense for the tool’s functionality and be particularly cautious of extensions requesting broad permissions such as “Read and change all your data on the websites you visit.”

Step 4: Check installation numbers and update history

Extensions with millions of users and regular updates are generally safer bets than those with just a few hundred installations. However, don’t let high installation numbers alone convince you. Look for extensions that receive regular updates, which indicates active maintenance and ongoing security attention from developers.

Step 5: Research recent security issues

Before installing, do a quick web search for the extension name with terms like “security,” “malware,” or “removed.” This will reveal any recent security incidents or concerns that other users have reported. Security researchers and tech blogs often publish warnings about problematic extensions, information that can be invaluable in your decision-making process.

Ongoing browser security

The security landscape changes constantly, and extensions that are safe today might develop problems in the future. This is why ongoing vigilance is just as important as your initial assessment.

• Install only as needed: Adopt a minimalist approach to installing extensions, as every browser extension you add increases your attack surface. Only install those you absolutely need.
• Regularly audit your installed extensions: Set a reminder to review your extensions every few months, removing any that you no longer use or that haven’t been updated recently. This reduces your attack surface and helps keep your browser running efficiently.
• Be wary of unrealistic benefits: When adding new browser extensions, be cautious of those that promise fantastic functions such as dramatically increasing internet speed or providing access to premium content for free. Extensions that require you to create accounts with suspicious email verification processes or that ask for payment information outside of Google’s official channels should also raise red flags.
• Be cautious of duplicate functions: Be suspicious if the extension is replicating functionality already built into Chrome, as these often exist primarily to harvest user data. Extensions with generic names, poor grammar in their descriptions, or unprofessional-looking icons and screenshots indicate lower development standards and potentially higher security risks.
• Install only from official stores: While not perfect, official browser stores offer significantly more security oversight than third-party sources or direct installation methods. Their layers of security screening include automated malware detection, manual code reviews for popular extensions, continuous monitoring for suspicious behavior, review systems, and developer verification processes.
• Enable automatic updates and smart monitoring: Browser updates often include enhanced extension security and additional protection mechanisms that help detect and prevent malicious extension behavior. In addition, implement a monitoring system to identify extensions that update unusually frequently or at suspicious times, such as during periods you’re less likely to notice behavioral changes.
• Deploy comprehensive protections: Integrate your browser extension security with broader security measures that can monitor extension behavior and detect suspicious activities such as unauthorized data access, unexpected network connections, or attempts to modify system files. These tools use behavioral analysis and machine learning to identify malicious patterns that might not be apparent through manual observation.
• Secure your shopping and banking accounts: Your financial transactions and shopping activities represent high-value targets that need specialized protections. Consider using a dedicated browser for financial activities to isolate your transactions or temporarily disable extensions not related to security or privacy. Enable multi-factor authentication to prevent unauthorized access even if a malicious extension captures your primary login credentials.
• Create a positive security routine: Establish straightforward security routines that include the measures listed above to ensure that your shopping, banking, and general browsing activities remain secure while still allowing you to benefit from the enhanced functionality that well-designed extensions provide.

Thankfully, Google continues to improve its security measures for the Chrome Web Store by implementing stricter review processes for extensions and enhancing its ability to detect and remove malicious extensions after they’ve been published. For additional protection, enable Chrome’s Enhanced Safe Browsing, under the browser’s Privacy and Security section.

Malicious browser extensions also pose similar threats across all major browser ecosystems, with attackers targeting the same vulnerabilities: excessive permissions, post-installation payload updates, and social engineering tactics.

Safari’s extension model, while more restrictive, still allows extensions to access browsing data and modify web content when you grant permissions. Microsoft Edge, built on Chromium, shares Chrome’s extension architecture and therefore inherits many of the same security challenges, though Microsoft has implemented additional screening measures for their Edge Add-ons store. Regardless of which browser you use, the fundamental protection strategies remain consistent.

Action plan if you’ve installed a malicious extension

If you suspect you’ve installed a malicious browser extension by mistake, speed matters in the race to protect your accounts. Follow this clear, step-by-step guide to remove the extension, secure your accounts, and check for any signs of compromise.

1. Immediately disconnect sensitive accounts: Sign out of all banking, shopping, and financial accounts you’ve accessed recently. Malicious extensions can capture session tokens and credentials in real-time, making immediate disconnection critical to prevent unauthorized access.
2. Remove the malicious extension completely: Open your browser settings and navigate to the Extensions or Add-ons section. Locate the suspicious extension and click “Remove” or “Uninstall.” Don’t just disable it. Check for related extensions that may have been installed simultaneously, as malicious extensions often come in bundles.
3. Clear all cookies and site data: Go to your browser’s privacy settings and clear all stored cookies, cached data, and site data to remove persistent tracking mechanisms or stored credentials the malicious extension may have accessed or modified. Pay special attention to clearing data from the past 30 days or since you first noticed suspicious activity.
4. Change all your passwords immediately: Start with your most sensitive accounts—banking, email, and work credentials—followed by all other accounts. Use strong, unique passwords that will make it difficult for the malicious extensions to attempt to access your accounts again. As mentioned earlier, enable multi-factor authentication.
5. Run a comprehensive security scan: Use reputable security software such as McAfee+ to perform full system scans on all devices where you’ve accessed sensitive accounts. Because malicious extensions can download additional malware or leave traces, it is best to schedule follow-up scans over the next few days to catch any delayed payloads.
6. Review all account activity thoroughly: Many malicious extensions operate silently for weeks before executing their primary payload. So keep monitoring your login history, transaction records, and changes in account settings across all your accounts, and look for any unauthorized transactions.
7. Set up account alerts: Set up automated account alerts for all transactions and closely monitor your bank and credit card statements for the next 60-90 days. Place fraud alerts with major credit bureaus if you suspect identity information may have been compromised.

Final thoughts

Browser extensions offer great functionality and convenience, but could introduce cybersecurity risks. With the right combination of smart browsing habits, regular security audits, and comprehensive protection tools, and staying informed, you can safely explore the web, manage your finances online, and shop without worry.

Make it a habit to question your intent to install a new extension, and download only from official browser stores. Review your installed extensions monthly—determine if each one still serves your needs. These practices, combined with keeping your browser and operating system updated, and employing trusted security software, reinforce your defense against evolving online threats. Remember to research any new browser extensions thoroughly before installation, checking developer credentials and reading recent user reviews to identify which browser extensions to avoid.

The post Learn to Identify and Avoid Malicious Browser Extensions appeared first on McAfee Blog.

The ability to connect wirelessly is indispensable in our lives today. Wireless internet is available in our homes, offices, cafes, restaurants, parks, hotels, airports, cars, and even airplanes. The mobility factor allows us to work anytime, anywhere, on numerous devices. “Being connected” is at an all-time high.

Wireless internet is amazing and convenient. Sadly, unsecured, unprotected wireless is everywhere. When a device connects to unprotected Wi-Fi, all the data stored on that device becomes accessible to a hacker using the proper sniffing tools.

It is, however, possible to protect your Wi-Fi from being hacked. In this article, we’ll walk you through some practical steps to stay protected when you connect, from recognizing dangerous networks to securing your home Wi-Fi. We’ll also show you what to do if you think you’ve been targeted.

What is a wireless network attack?

Wireless network attacks happen when cybercriminals target your Wi-Fi connection to steal your personal information. It it’s equivalent to digital eavesdropping, where attackers exploit weaknesses in your wireless connection to intercept all the information you send and receive online.

Criminals can intercept your login credentials as you type them, redirect you to legitimate-looking but fake websites, or even impersonate you online using stolen information. The goal is often wireless identity theft, that is, using your compromised data for financial fraud or other malicious purposes.

The risks of unprotected Wi-Fi are particularly high because many wireless networks lack proper security measures. When you connect to an unsecured network, your data travels in a way that skilled attackers can capture and decode. This puts your banking information, social media accounts, work credentials, and personal communications at risk.

Common wireless attacks include creating fake hotspots that mimic legitimate networks, known as evil twins, intercepting data on public Wi-Fi, and using specialized software to crack network passwords.

Wi-Fi security weaknesses that enable hacking

Cybercriminals usually circumvent wireless network security in several ways, including:

• Outdated Wi-Fi encryption: Networks still using WEP or older WPA/WPA2 protocols without security updates create easy targets for wireless identity theft. For more stringent security, your router settings should indicate the more current WPA3 or the latest WPA2-AES encryption.
• Weak default passwords: Many routers ship with simple default passwords like “admin” or “password123.” When you set up your home Wi-Fi router, make sure to change the router’s default network name and password to at least 12 characters that combine words, numbers, and symbols.
• Default network names: Keeping your router’s default network name broadcasts your device model to potential attackers. Rename your network to something that doesn’t identify your router brand and model, nor your address or family name.
• Rogue access points and evil twins: Cybercriminals can set up fake Wi-Fi networks that mimic legitimate ones to intercept your data and steal your identity.
• Poorly configured guest networks: Guest networks without proper isolation can expose your main network and connected devices to hacking risks.
• Outdated router firmware: Router manufacturers regularly release firmware updates to patch security vulnerabilities. Running outdated firmware leaves your network exposed to known threats.
• Unsecured Internet of Things (IoT) devices: IoT home devices such as smart TVs, security cameras, voice assistants, and other smart appliances often have weak security settings and can serve as entry points for attackers seeking to compromise your network, especially if not isolated on a separate network.

What hackers can do after hacking your Wi-Fi

Once scammers gain access to your home or an unsecured public Wi-Fi network, they can launch several types of wireless attacks that directly put your personal information and financial security at risk.

Credential theft and account takeovers

One of the most common dangers is credential theft, where attackers intercept your login information as it travels over unsecured networks. When you check your email, log into social media, or access work accounts on a compromised Wi-Fi network, cybercriminals can capture your usernames and passwords. This wireless identity theft often leads to unauthorized access to your bank accounts, credit cards, and personal profiles.

Session hijacking and traffic sniffing

In session hijacking, attackers take over your current online activities on public Wi-Fi, then impersonate you on websites and services you’re logged into. This tactic is called the man-in-the-middle attack. They might apply for credit cards in your name, make purchases, or even commit crimes while pretending to be you. Through traffic sniffing, they can monitor all data flowing through the compromised networks, capturing everything from personal messages to financial information.

Traffic redirection to fake sites

Cybercriminals will also reroute your internet traffic to malicious websites that look similar to legitimate ones. You think you’re logging into your real bank website, but you’re actually entering your credentials into a scammer’s fake site. This technique, known as DNS poisoning, makes it nearly impossible to detect the deception until it’s too late.

Malware installation

The attackers will push malicious software directly onto your devices, enabling them to log every keystroke you make, steal stored passwords, access your files, and even quietly activate your camera or microphone without your knowledge.

Device surveillance

Hackers can monitor not only your device but all connected devices on your network. That means they can access your entire family’s browsing habits, private messages, stored photos and documents, and online activities, giving them detailed personal information for their identity theft schemes.

These attacks directly affect your daily activities, from online banking to e-commerce shopping to working from home. Even simple tasks, such as checking social media, can result in identity theft when conducted over compromised networks.

Actions to verify a secure wireless network

You don’t have to avoid public Wi-Fi entirely. By being aware of these risks and taking appropriate precautions, you can significantly reduce your exposure to wireless identity theft. The protective measures we’ll explore in the following sections will show you how to recognize dangerous networks, browse safely, and maintain your privacy even when using public connections.

• Look for the missing lock icon: In your Wi-Fi settings, secure networks display a lock symbol next to the network name. Networks without this icon are open and unencrypted, making your data vulnerable to anyone within range.
• Avoid generic or suspicious network names: Be wary of networks with names like “Free WiFi,” “Public,” “Guest,” or random combinations of letters and numbers. Legitimate businesses typically use their brand name in their network identifier.
• Question misspelled business names: If you’re at a Starbucks cafe but see a network called “Starbuckz” or “Starbucks_Free,” it could be a fake network designed to steal your information. Always verify the correct network name with the staff.
• Check for HTTPS on captive portals: When connecting to public Wi-Fi that requires you to accept terms or log in through a web page, ensure the login page URL starts with “https://” and shows a lock icon in your browser’s address bar.
• Be cautious in unfamiliar locations: Networks appearing in unexpected places, such as “Coffee Shop WiFi” in a residential area or multiple networks with similar names in one location may indicate malicious hotspots.
• Verify encryption type: Right-click the network in your Wi-Fi list and navigate to Properties > Security type. A secure network will use WPA2 or WPA3 encryption, while “Open” or “WEP” indicates weak or no protection.
• Heed certificate warnings: If your device displays security certificate errors or warnings when connecting to public Wi-Fi, make sure to follow them. These alerts could indicate security risks or man-in-the-middle attacks.

Recognize and respond to a Wi-Fi hacking incident

If you suspect your Wi-Fi network has been compromised, don’t panic. Recognizing the warning signs early and taking decisive action can protect your identity and restore your network security.

The most common indicators of a compromised network include unexpected slowdowns in your internet speed, unfamiliar devices appearing on your network, and settings that have changed without your knowledge. You might also notice unusual data usage patterns, your router admin password no longer working, or being redirected to suspicious websites when browsing. When you detect these signs, take quick action.

Immediate steps to take

1. Immediately disconnect affected devices: As soon as you suspect a compromise, disconnect all devices from your Wi-Fi network to prevent further unauthorized access and limit potential damage from identity theft attempts.
2. Change your router admin password first: Access your router’s admin panel and immediately update the administrator password to something strong and unique to block attackers from regaining access to your network settings.
3. Update your Wi-Fi network password. Create a new, complex Wi-Fi password using a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols. Use at least 12 characters for wireless networks.
4. Install the latest firmware updates: Check your router manufacturer’s website for recent firmware updates that patch security vulnerabilities.
5. Review and remove unknown devices. Use your router’s device management features to identify and remove any unauthorized devices from your network’s allowed devices list.
6. Enable WPA3 security if available: Upgrade to WPA3 encryption if your router supports it for enhanced protection from the wireless exploits that commonly affect older security protocols.
7. Perform a factory reset if necessary: If you cannot identify the source of the compromise or if multiple security indicators persist, reset your router to factory defaults and reconfigure it with strong security settings.

Ongoing safeguards against Wi-Fi hacking

1. Change your router’s admin and Wi-Fi passwords regularly: Your router’s default credentials are often publicly available online, making them easy targets for wireless identity theft. Create strong, unique passwords for both your router’s admin panel and Wi-Fi network. Update them every 3-6 months and immediately if you suspect any unauthorized access.
2. Disable WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) on your router: WPS creates a convenient backdoor that hackers can exploit through brute-force attacks. Access your router’s admin panel and turn off WPS completely. This simple step closes a major vulnerability that wireless exploits often target.
3. Set up a separate guest network for visitors and IoT devices: Isolating your main devices from guest access and smart home gadgets reduces the risks of unprotected Wi-Fi spreading throughout your network. Configure guest network access with time limits and bandwidth restrictions to maintain better control over your network security.
4. Turn off SSID QR code sharing and disable automatic network sharing: Many modern devices offer convenient network sharing through QR codes or automatic syncing, but these features can inadvertently expose your credentials. Disable these options in your device settings and share Wi-Fi access manually when needed.
5. Properly wipe devices before selling, donating, or disposing of them: Your old devices store Wi-Fi passwords and network configurations that could compromise your security long after disposal. Perform factory resets and use secure wiping tools to ensure all saved network credentials are completely removed from the device’s memory.
6. Review and manage your cloud backup settings: Cloud services often sync Wi-Fi passwords and network settings across devices, which can create unexpected security risks. Check your iCloud, Google, or Microsoft account settings to control which network information gets backed up and shared between your devices.
7. Keep your router firmware updated and monitor connected devices: Manufacturers regularly release security patches to address newly discovered vulnerabilities. Enable automatic firmware updates when possible, and regularly review your router’s connected devices list to spot any unauthorized access attempts that could lead to wireless identity theft.
8. Monitor your network regularly: Set up ongoing monitoring through your router’s logging features or third-party network monitoring tools to detect future unauthorized access attempts and maintain awareness of your network’s security status.

If you must connect to public Wi-Fi

• Use your cellular hotspot instead: Your phone’s mobile data connection is far more secure than any public Wi-Fi network. Enable hotspot mode and connect your laptop or tablet to avoid the risks of unprotected Wi-Fi entirely.
• Enable HTTPS-only mode in your browser: In Chrome, go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Security and enable “Always use secure connections.” For Firefox, visit Settings > Privacy & Security and check “HTTPS-Only Mode.” This prevents wireless attacks that intercept unencrypted traffic.
• Configure DNS encryption: Use secure DNS services like Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) or Quad9 (9.9.9.9) in your device settings. On Windows, go to Settings > Network & Internet > Advanced network settings > Change adapter options, then configure DNS servers in your connection properties.
• Disable automatic Wi-Fi connections: On iOS, go to Settings > Wi-Fi and turn off “Auto-Join” for public networks. On Android, navigate to Settings > Network & internet > Wi-Fi > Wi-Fi preferences and disable “Connect to open networks.” This prevents automatic connecting to potentially dangerous networks.
• Enable multi-factor authentication and use passkeys: Protect your accounts with MFA through apps like Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator. When available, choose passkeys over passwords, which are more resistant to phishing and man-in-the-middle attacks.
• Avoid sensitive tasks on public Wi-Fi: Never access banking, make financial transactions, or log into administrative accounts while connected to public networks. Save these activities for your secure home network or use your cellular data connection instead.
• Forget networks after use: Always remove public Wi-Fi networks from your saved connections when you leave. On your device’s Wi-Fi settings, select the network and choose “Forget” or “Remove” to prevent automatic reconnection to potentially compromised networks.
• Verify network authenticity: Before connecting, confirm the exact network name and password with venue staff. Attackers often create fake networks with similar names, such as “Free_WiFi” or “Hotel_Guest,” to capture your data.
• Keep your device updated: Install security updates promptly on all devices. These patches often fix vulnerabilities that could be exploited on public networks, helping you stay protected.
• Use a reputable VPN service: When you must use public Wi-Fi, connect through a trusted virtual private network to encrypt all your traffic and create a secure tunnel that protects your data even on compromised networks.

Final thoughts

To guard your network or device from hacking attempts, take action today by updating your router’s firmware and passwords, reviewing and removing unnecessary saved networks from your devices, and enabling multi-factor authentication on all your important accounts. These small, but consistent steps will deliver tangible benefits to your daily digital activities.

For better security, subscribe to an identity theft protection service such as McAfee+, which offers proactive identity surveillance, lost wallet protection, and alerts when suspicious activity is detected on your accounts. All things considered, the investment in these security measures is minimal compared to the peace of mind they provide.

The post Verify Secure Wireless Networks to Prevent Identity Theft appeared first on McAfee Blog.

The practice of locking our possessions is relevant in every aspect of our modern lives. We physically lock our houses, cars, bikes, hotel rooms, computers, and even our luggage when we go to the airport. There are lockers at gyms, schools, amusement parks, and sometimes even at the workplace.

Digitally, we lock our phones with passcodes and protect them from malware with a security solution. Why, then, don’t we lock the individual apps that house some of our most personal and sensitive data?

From photos to emails to credit card numbers, our mobile apps hold invaluable data that is often left unprotected, especially given that some of the most commonly used apps on the Android platform such as Facebook, LinkedIn and Gmail don’t necessarily require a log in each time they’re launched.

Without an added layer of security, those apps are leaving room for nosy family members, jealous significant others, prankster friends, and worst of all thieves to hack into your social media or email accounts at the drop of a hat. In this article, we will discuss what an app lock is, everyday scenarios you may need it, and how to set it up on your smartphone.

Your apps hold details of your life

Your mobile phone is more than just a gadget. It’s your wallet, camera, diary, and connection to the world. You likely keep photos, messages, social media, payment apps, and even confidential work files on it. To protect these bits of personal information, we use PINs, patterns, or biometrics to lock our devices, but once the phone is open, every app is fair game.

I f someone were able to go beyond your phone’s lock screen and gain access to the information in your phone, how much of your life could they see? A friend could scroll through your photos. Your child could open your shopping app and make purchases. Or a thief could get into your banking and social media accounts in seconds.

One way to avoid this from happening is by applying an app lock, a digital padlock that adds an authentication step such as a password, pattern, or biometric before an application can be launched.

Device locks aren’t enough

In your home, a locked front door keeps strangers out. But what happens if you unwittingly leave the front door unlocked and someone walks in? Without interior locks, your bedroom, office, and safe are now accessible to anyone.

This same concept applies to your device with unprotected apps. Once unlocked, apps like Gmail, Facebook, or mobile banking don’t always require you to log in every time. It’s convenient, until it’s not.

An app lock serves as an indoor lock, protecting your sensitive data even after an unauthorized person has accessed it, and maintaining privacy boundaries.

When you or another person attempts to open an app on your device, the system first triggers an authentication screen. After verifying your PIN, fingerprint, or face, the app will open, ensuring that your personal information stays off-limits to people who do not know your authentication step. In Android, app locks work seamlessly in the background without slowing performance.

This layered defense mirrors the cybersecurity approach used on enterprise systems, but scaled down for consumers. Each layer handles different threats, so if one fails, the others still protect you:

• Your phone’s screen lock guards the device.
• Your antivirus protects against malware.
• Your app lock safeguards the personal data inside.

Everyday scenarios where app locks matter

• Family and shared devices: If you are a parent, you might lend your phone to your child for a game. Within minutes, they’ve opened your email app or shopping account. With app lock, you can hand over your device without worrying they’ll see or purchase something they shouldn’t.
• Friends and social moments: You’re showing photos to a friend, and they accidentally swipe into your text or social media messages. An app lock keeps your private conversations private, no explanations needed.
• Traveling and public use: Whether you’re going through airport security or connecting to public Wi-Fi, app locks ensure that even an unlocked device doesn’t expose your sensitive apps if your phone is stolen or misplaced.
• Work and personal boundaries: Many professionals use personal phones for work. App locks separate business and personal data, securing email, document-sharing apps, and collaboration tools from family members or friends who borrow your device.

The risks of unprotected apps

Leaving apps unprotected can do more than just embarrass you. Here are some examples of how unprotected apps could lead to lasting harm:

• Email access lets intruders reset passwords for your other accounts and eventually lock you out. This applies not only to your personal email, but also to your corporate email account if you have a work profile on your phone.
• Social media enables hackers to impersonate you, violate your privacy or that of the people around you, or post malicious content that could damage your reputation and personal relationships.
• Banking and finance apps provide direct access to your money and accounts. Aside from the financial loss, cybercriminals who gain access to your accounts could apply for loans in your name or commit financial fraud in your name.
• Photo galleries reveal personal images, family details, or screenshots containing sensitive data.

Even just one unauthorized session could cascade into identity theft or financial fraud. That’s why security experts recommend app-level protection as part of a layered, reinforced mobile defense strategy.

Your guide to setting up your app locks on Android

While many Android phones include some app-locking capabilities, dedicated mobile security apps provide more robust options and better protection. Here’s how to set up app locks effectively:

1. Choose a strong authentication method

Use a 6-digit or longer PIN, complex pattern, or biometric such as fingerprint or face unlock. Avoid using the same PIN as your main device.

2. Select which apps to protect

Choose the priority mobile apps that you want to protect. Start with your most sensitive apps, such as:

• Banking and finance
• Email and messaging
• Cloud storage
• Photo gallery
• Shopping apps with saved payment info

3. Adjust lock timers for convenience

Set timeouts based on app sensitivity:

• Banking and shopping: Lock these immediately after you finish using them. This gives prying eyes zero chances to intercept your information.
• Messaging: You can be more lenient here. Allow for a 30- to 60-second delay in case you have additional thoughts to communicate.
• Work apps: For continuity, you can permit short delays in locking work apps during business hours. But once you leave work, you can set up the app locks to immediately activate.

4. Manage notifications and privacy

Hide notification content for locked apps. This keeps private messages or bank alerts from showing up on your lock screen.

The advantage of dedicated app locks

Most Android manufacturers now offer convenient, built-in app locking features. However, they are limited, often lacking biometric integration, cloud backup, or smart settings.

Dedicated solutions go further, providing:

• Seamless biometric access
• Anti-tampering protection
• Stealth mode to hide locked apps from view
• Remote access controls if your phone is lost or stolen
• Integrated alerts for suspicious log-in attempts

With an app lock, your mischievous friends will never be able to post embarrassing status updates on your Facebook profile, and your jealous partner won’t be able to snoop through your photos or emails. For parents, you can keep your kids locked out of the apps that would allow them to access inappropriate content without having to watch their every move.

Most importantly, app locks protect you from thieves and strangers in case of a stolen or lost device.

Final thoughts

Your phone carries more than just apps. It holds the details of your daily life. From private conversations and family photos to financial information and work data, much of what matters most to you lives behind those app icons. While a device lock is an important first step, it isn’t always enough on its own.

App locks give you greater control over your privacy by protecting individual apps, even when your phone is already unlocked. They help prevent accidental access, discourage snooping, and reduce the risk of serious harm if your device is lost or stolen. Most importantly, they allow you to use and share your phone, without worrying about who might see what they shouldn’t.

By adding app-level protection to your mobile security routine, you’re taking a simple but meaningful step toward safeguarding your personal information.

The post App Locks Can Improve the Security of Your Mobile Phones appeared first on McAfee Blog.

It’s no longer possible to deny that your life in the physical world and your digital life are one and the same. Coming to terms with this reality will help you make better decisions in many aspects of your life.

The same identity you use at work, at home, and with friends also exists in apps, inboxes, accounts, devices, and databases, whether you actively post online or prefer to stay quiet. Every purchase, login, location ping, and message leaves a trail. And that trail shapes what people, companies, and scammers can learn about you, how they can reach you, and what they might try to take.

That’s why digital security isn’t just an IT or a “tech person” problem. It’s a daily life skill. When you understand how your digital life works, what information you’re sharing, where it’s stored, and how it can be misused, you make better decisions. This guide is designed to help you build that awareness and translate it into practical habits: protecting your data, securing your accounts, and staying in control of your privacy in a world that’s always connected.

The essence of digital security

Being digitally secure doesn’t mean hiding from the internet or using complicated tools you don’t understand. It means having intentional control over your digital life to reduce risks while still being able to live, work, and communicate online safely. A digitally secure person focuses on four interconnected areas:

Personal information

Your personal data is the foundation of your digital identity. Protecting it includes limiting how much data you share, understanding where it’s stored, and reducing how easily it can be collected, sold, or stolen. At its heart, personal information falls into two critical categories that require different levels of protection:

• Personally identifiable information (PII):This represents the core data that defines you, such as your name, contact details, financial data, health information, location history, Social Security number, driver’s license number, passport information, home address, and online behavior. Financial data such as bank account numbers, credit card details, and tax identification numbers also fall into this category. Medical information, including health insurance numbers and medical records, represents some of your most sensitive PII that requires the highest level of protection.
• Sensitive personal data:While not always directly identifying you, this type of information can be used to build a comprehensive profile of your life and activities. This includes your phone number, email address, employment details, educational background, and family information. Your online activities, browsing history, location data, and social media posts also constitute sensitive personal data that can reveal patterns about your behavior, preferences, and daily routines.

Digital accounts

Account security ensures that only you can access them. Strong, unique passwords, multi-factor authentication, and secure recovery options prevent criminals from hijacking your email, banking, cloud storage, social media, and other online accounts, often the gateway to everything else in your digital life.

Privacy

Privacy control means setting boundaries and deciding who can see what about you, and under what circumstances. This includes managing social media visibility, app permissions, browser tracking, and third-party access to your data.

Digital security is an ongoing effort as threats evolve, platforms change their policies, and new technologies introduce new risks. Staying digitally secure requires periodic check-ins, learning to recognize scams and manipulation, and adjusting your habits as the digital landscape changes.

Common exposure points in daily digital life

Your personal information faces exposure risks through multiple channels during routine digital activities, often without your explicit knowledge.

• Public Wi-Fi networks: When you connect to unsecured networks in coffee shops, airports, hotels, or retail locations, your internet traffic can be intercepted by cybercriminals using the same network. This puts your login credentials, banking information, and communications at risk, even on networks that appear secure.
• Data brokers: These companies gather data, often without your explicit knowledge, from public records, social media platforms, online purchases, and other digital activities to create your profile. They then sell this information to marketers, employers, and other interested parties.
• Social media: When you overshare details about your location, vacation plans, family members, workplace, or daily routines, you provide cybercriminals with valuable information for identity theft and social engineering attacks. Regular platform policy changes can reset your previously private information or expose you to data breaches.
• Third-party applications: Mobile apps, browser extensions, and online services frequently collect more data than necessary for their stated functionality, creating additional privacy risks for you. You could be granting these apps permission to access your personal data, contacts, location, camera, and other device functions without fully understanding how your data will be used, stored, or shared.
• Web trackers: These small pieces of code embedded in websites follow your browsing behavior, monitoring which sites you visit, how long you stay, what you click on, and even where you move your mouse cursor. Advertising networks use this information to build a profile of your interests and online habits to serve you targeted ads.

Core pillars of digital security

Implementing comprehensive personal data protection requires a systematic approach that addresses the common exposure points. These practical steps provide layers of security that work together to minimize your exposure to identity theft and fraud.

Minimize data sharing across platforms

Start by conducting a thorough audit of your online accounts and subscriptions to identify where you have unnecessarily shared more data than needed. Remove or minimize details that aren’t essential for the service to function. Moving forward, provide only the minimum required information to new accounts and avoid linking them across different platforms unless necessary.

Be particularly cautious with loyalty programs, surveys, and promotional offers that ask for extensive personal information, as they may share it with third parties. Read privacy policies carefully, focusing on sections that describe data sharing, retention periods, and your rights regarding your personal information.

If possible, consider using separate email addresses for different accounts to limit cross-platform tracking and reduce the impact if one account is compromised. Create dedicated email addresses for shopping, social media, newsletters, and important accounts like banking and healthcare.

Adjust account privacy settings

Privacy protection requires regular attention to your account settings across all platforms and services you use. Social media platforms frequently update their privacy policies and settings, often defaulting to less private configurations that allow them to collect and share your data. For this reason, it is a good idea to review your privacy settings at least quarterly. Limit who can see your posts, contact information, and friend lists. Disable location tracking, facial recognition, and advertising customization features that rely on your personal data. Turn off automatic photo tagging and prevent search engines from indexing your profile.

On Google accounts, visit your Activity Controls and disable Web & App Activity, Location History, and YouTube History to stop this data from being saved. You can even opt out of ad personalization entirely if desired by adjusting Google Ad Settings. If you are more tech savvy, Google Takeout allows you to export and review what data Google has collected about you.

For Apple ID accounts, you can navigate to System Preferences on Mac or Settings on iOS devices to disable location-based Apple ads, limit app tracking, and review which apps have access to your contacts, photos, and other personal data.

Meanwhile, Amazon accounts store extensive purchase history, voice recordings from Alexa devices, and browsing behavior. Review your privacy settings to limit data sharing with third parties, delete voice recordings, and manage your advertising preferences.

Limit app permissions

Regularly audit the permissions you’ve granted to installed applications. Many apps request far more permissions to your location, contacts, camera, and microphone even though they don’t need them. Cancel these unnecessary permissions, and be particularly cautious about granting access to sensitive data.

Use strong passwords and multi-factor authentication

Create passwords that actually protect you; they should be long and complex enough that even sophisticated attacks can’t easily break them. Combine uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters to make it harder for attackers to crack.

Aside from passwords, enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) on your most critical accounts: banking and financial services, email, cloud storage, social media, work, and healthcare. Use authenticator apps such as Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, or Authy rather than SMS-based authentication when possible, as text messages can be intercepted through SIM swapping attacks. When setting up MFA, ensure you save backup codes in a secure location and register multiple devices when possible to keep you from being locked out of your accounts if your primary authentication device is lost, stolen, or damaged.

Alternatively, many services now offer passkeys which use cryptographic keys stored on your device, providing stronger security than passwords while being more convenient to use. Consider adopting passkeys for accounts that support them, particularly for your most sensitive accounts.

Enable device encryption and automatic backups

Device encryption protects your personal information if your smartphone, tablet, or laptop is lost, stolen, or accessed without authorization. Modern devices typically offer built-in encryption options that are easy to enable and don’t noticeably impact performance.

You can implement automatic backup systems such as secure cloud storage services, and ensure backup data is protected. iOS users can utilize encrypted iCloud backups, while Android users should enable Google backup with encryption. Regularly test your backup systems to ensure they’re working correctly and that you can successfully restore your data when needed.

Request data deletion and opt out from data brokers

Identify major data brokers that likely have your information and look for their privacy policy or opt-out procedures, which often involves submitting a request with your personal information and waiting for confirmation that your data has been removed.

In addition, review your subscriptions and memberships to identify services you no longer use. Request account deletion rather than simply closing accounts, as many companies retain data from closed accounts. When requesting deletion, ask specifically for all personal data to be removed from their systems, including backups and archives.

Keep records of your opt-out and deletion requests, and follow up if you don’t receive confirmation within the stated timeframe. In the United States, key data broker companies include Acxiom, LexisNexis, Experian, Equifax, TransUnion, Whitepages, Spokeo, BeenVerified, and PeopleFinder. Visit each company’s website.

Use only trusted, secure networks

Connect only to trusted, secure networks to reduce the risk of your data being intercepted by attackers lurking behind unsecured or fake Wi-Fi connections. Avoid logging into sensitive accounts on public networks in coffee shops, airports, or hotels, and use encrypted connections such as HTTPS or a virtual private network to hide your IP address and block third parties from monitoring your online activities.

Rather than using a free VPN service that often collects and sells your data to generate revenue, it is better to choose a premium, reputable VPN service that doesn’t log your browsing activities and offers servers in multiple locations.

Ongoing monitoring and maintenance habits

Cyber threats evolve constantly, privacy policies change, and new services collect different types of personal information, making personal data protection an ongoing process rather than a one-time task. Here are measures to help regularly maintain your personal data protection:

• Quarterly reviews: Set up a quarterly review process to examine your privacy settings across all platforms and services. Create a calendar reminder to check your social media privacy settings, review app permissions on your devices, and audit your online accounts for unused services that should be deleted.
• Credit monitoring: Monitor your financial accounts regularly for unauthorized activity and consider using credit monitoring services to alert you to potential identity theft.
• Breach alerts: Stay informed about data breaches in the services you use by signing up for breach notification services. If a breach occurs, this will allow you to take immediate action to change passwords, monitor affected accounts, and consider additional security measures for compromised services.
• Device updates: Enable automatic security and software updates on your devices, as these updates include important privacy and security improvements that protect you from newly discovered vulnerabilities.
• Education and awareness: Stay informed about new privacy risks, learn about emerging protective technologies, and share knowledge with family members and friends who may benefit from improved personal data protection practices.

By implementing these systematic approaches and maintaining regular attention to your privacy settings and data sharing practices, you significantly reduce your risk of identity theft and fraud while maintaining greater control over your digital presence and personal information.

Final thoughts

You don’t need to dramatically overhaul your entire digital security in one day, but you can start making meaningful improvements right now. Taking action today, even small steps, builds the foundation for stronger personal data protection and peace of mind in your digital life. Choose one critical account, update its password, enable multi-factor authentication, and you’ll already be significantly more secure than you were this morning. Your future self will thank you for taking these proactive steps to protect what matters most to you.

Every step you take toward better privacy protection strengthens your overall digital security and reduces your risk of becoming a victim of scams, identity theft, or unwanted surveillance. You’ve already taken the first step by learning about digital security risks and solutions. Now it’s time to put that knowledge into action with practical steps that fit seamlessly into your digital routine.

The post What Does It Take To Be Digitally Secure? appeared first on McAfee Blog.

Every four years, scores of American people flood churches, schools, homes, and auditoriums to cast their ballots for the future of American leadership. But amid the highs and lows of election night, there is an ongoing conversation about how the votes are being counted.

As results slowly roll in, voters struggle with long lines and faulty machinery in key battleground states, prompting debates on the efficiency of the U.S. voting process. In an age where American Idol results can be instantaneously transmitted over a mobile device, why are we still feeding paper ballots into machines that look like props from ‘90s movies?

On the one hand, countries like Canada, Norway and Australia have already experienced success with their adoption of online voting systems, and proponents say going digital will boost voter turnout and Election Day efficiency. On the other, naysayers cite hacking, malware, and other security threats as deal-breakers that could threaten the backbone of American democracy.

So what are the facts behind this debate? Below, we’ve outlined key arguments for and against online, email, and electronic voting systems, to help users at home move beyond the pre-election campaign hype.

Electronic voting: Better or worse than paper ballots?

Since there have been elections, there have been people tampering with votes. Given this, experts are justifiably concerned with any technology that could introduce new points of access to the data stored during an election. Nevertheless, a handful of states now use electronic voting machines exclusively—Delaware, Georgia, Louisiana, New Jersey and South Carolina—and even notorious battleground states Ohio and Florida have made the move toward paperless votes.

The concern is that when there is no physical ballot, it becomes next to impossible to determine if there has been tampering—especially in the case of a close election. The contested 2000 Bush-Gore race comes to mind as an example of the stark importance of reliable election machinery. In 2012, Pennsylvania voting machines were taken out of service after being captured on video changing votes from one candidate to another.

Still, most of these machines now supply a paper trail to guard against tampering, and a vast majority undergo frequent, mandatory testing. The machines are also not connected to the Internet and are segregated from any network-connected devices. In terms of physical security, the machines themselves are secured with locks and tamper-evident seals, and they’re heavily protected when transported to and from polling places.

Hacking the vote: It’s easier than you think

While electronic voting promises efficiency and convenience, the reality is that these systems face significant vulnerabilities that make them easy targets for hacking.

Attackers don’t need to hack every voting machine individually. They only need to target the broader voting ecosystem through several key attack vectors. For one, supply chain risks represent one of the most concerning threats, where malicious components or software can be introduced during manufacturing or updates. Misconfigured systems and outdated firmware create entry points that cybercriminals actively seek out, while exposed network ports can provide side-channel access to supposedly isolated voting infrastructure.

Beyond direct machine tampering, sophisticated attacks focus on ballot definition files—the digital templates that determine how votes are recorded and counted. Manipulating these files can alter election outcomes without voters realizing it. Similarly, result reporting systems that transmit vote tallies from polling locations to central counting facilities present attractive targets for those seeking to disrupt electoral processes.

Recent security research demonstrates these vulnerabilities aren’t theoretical. In 2003, cybersecurity researchers at Johns Hopkins University documented significant security gaps in widely used electronic voting systems during controlled testing environments, revealing that basic network intrusion techniques could compromise vote tallies without detection. Meanwhile, a 2022 audit conducted by election security experts in Georgia identified configuration errors in electronic polling systems that could have allowed unauthorized access to voter data and ballot information.

Perhaps more concerning is how disinformation campaigns around unofficial election results can amplify doubts about electoral integrity, regardless of actual system security. These campaigns often spread false information about electronic voting fraud or online voting hack attempts, creating confusion that undermines public trust in legitimate election outcomes.

It’s crucial to understand that the primary impact of these vulnerabilities often isn’t direct vote manipulation—it’s the erosion of voter confidence in our democratic processes. When people doubt that their votes count accurately, it weakens the foundation of democratic participation.

Privacy & security concerns in online voting

Will our presidential elections ever go the way of American Idol? Despite advances in technology, the vast majority of Americans must vote in person or via mail-in ballot. At present, only very limited electronic voting options exist, primarily for specific voter groups and circumstances, such as:

• Military and overseas voters: The Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act (UOCAVA) allows military personnel and overseas citizens to return marked ballots electronically in some states. However, this typically involves downloading a ballot, marking it, and returning it via secure email or portal—not full online voting.
• Voters with disabilities: These accommodations vary by state. Some states offer electronic ballot marking tools or accessible voting systems for voters with disabilities. These systems often allow electronic marking but require printing ballots for submission, maintaining a paper trail for verification.
• Citizens displaced by natural disasters: During an election cycle when many New Jersey residents were affected by Hurricane Sandy, officials established email as an alternative voting method. But as Election Day loomed, the system was soon blamed for a slew of issues.

Vulnerabilities in online voting systems

Understanding the vulnerabilities that plague electronic voting systems isn’t about creating fear, but about building stronger defenses. Below, we have listed some of the potential attack vectors to help you make informed decisions about digital democracy.

The email software

In email voting, unencrypted emails pose a serious security risk because they can be easily intercepted, spoofed, or altered in transit. When a ballot is sent without encryption, it travels across networks in plain text, allowing cybercriminals to access and modify its contents before it reaches election officials. Attackers also might impersonate legitimate voters by sending forged emails or inject malware into attachments that appear to be ballots.

The device

Computers used to send or receive the emails can be compromised to change or block a voter’s choices. When you cast your ballot online, malware can intercept your vote before it even leaves your device. In addition, the receiving computer will need to open attachments sent by unknown users to tally the votes, one of the most common causes of malware infections.

Credential theft

Phishing attacks specifically target voting credentials, often through fake election websites or deceptive emails. Multi-factor authentication and government-issued digital certificates provide essential barriers. In 2023, the National Institute of Standards and Technology released its Digital Identity Guidelines that recommended biometric verification combined with secure tokens for high-stakes digital transactions like voting.

Man-in-the-middle attacks

Your vote travels across networks where attackers might intercept or modify it. To thwart these attacks and ensure your ballot remains tamper-proof during transmission, end-to-end encryption with cryptographic signatures can be integrated into online voting systems. Advanced protocols such as homomorphic encryption allow vote counting without exposing individual choices.

Server-side vulnerabilities

Voting servers face constant attack attempts. Independent security audits, isolated network environments, and blockchain-based verification systems can help maintain integrity. Regular penetration testing, as recommended in the Election Assistance Commission’s 2023 Voluntary Voting System Guidelines, identifies weaknesses before they’re exploited.

Distributed denial of service

DDoS attacks can overwhelm voting portals during critical periods. Distributed server architecture, traffic filtering, and backup submission methods could ensure continuous access, while cloud-based solutions provide scalable protection against volume-based attacks.

Ballot secrecy

Online systems must balance verification with privacy. Protocols such as zero-knowledge proof could allow voters to confirm that their ballot was counted without revealing their choices. Anonymous credential systems separate voter identity from vote content.

Auditability challenges

Digital voting requires verifiable paper trails or cryptographic receipts. This can be addressed with voter-verified paper audit trails (VVPAT) and risk-limiting audits that provide the transparency necessary for public confidence.

Cyber threats to voting abound long before Election Day

In this digital age, threats to the voting process start well before election day. Cybercriminals take advantage of the campaign fever when citizens turn to technology for updates on the election process or news about running candidates.

Amid all this, your role as a voter includes staying informed about these protections and choosing secure voting methods when available or legitimate information sources. Democracy thrives when citizens understand both the possibilities and precautions of digital participation.

• Fake voter registration websites: Scammers create convincing look-alike sites that mimic official election portals to steal your personal information. These sites often appear in search results with urgent messaging about registration deadlines, but they’re designed to harvest your data for identity theft or voter suppression purposes.
• Phishing texts and emails about “polling changes”: You might receive official-looking messages claiming your polling location has changed, voting has been extended, or you need to “confirm” your registration via text or email. These communications often create false urgency to trick you into clicking malicious links or sharing sensitive information.
• Impersonation of election officials: Scammers pose as election workers, poll supervisors, or government officials via phone calls, texts, or door-to-door visits. They may claim there are problems with your registration, then request personal information to “verify” your eligibility.
• Malinformation hotlines: Fraudulent phone lines spread false information about voting procedures, dates, or requirements. These services intentionally provide incorrect details to discourage voting or cause confusion about the electoral process.
• Political donation fraud: Fake political organizations and candidates set up fraudulent donation sites that look legitimate but funnel your money and financial information directly to scammers. These sites often use names similar to real campaigns or causes to deceive donors.

Your role in protecting election integrity

Every voter plays a role in ensuring elections remain fair, secure, and transparent. By following proper voting procedures, verifying information through official sources, and reporting suspicious activity, you help strengthen trust in the system. Small actions can make a big difference in protecting the integrity of every vote.

• Plan your preferred voting method: Before Election Day arrives, take time to plan how you’ll cast your ballot—whether it’s in person at your local polling place, by mail, or through accessible voting options available in your state. If you’re an overseas military or citizen, research your state’s UOCAVA procedures. Knowing this could help you avoid last-minute issues that might force you to bypass safe voting practices.
• Confirm your voter registration status at your official state portal: This quick step ensures that your information—such as your name, address, and polling location—is accurate and up to date, and helps you avoid surprises like being listed under the wrong district or finding out you’re not registered at all.
• Verify your polling location through official channels: This ensures you’re voting at legitimate facilities with properly managed systems. When available, choose paper backup options or locations that use voter-verified paper audit trails, which provide physical evidence of your vote that can’t be altered digitally.
• Keep your personal devices secure during election periods: You can do this by updating software, using strong passwords, and being cautious about election-related apps, websites, or messages that aren’t from official government sources.
• Stay alert for potential vulnerabilities: As a voter or observer, you can: verify polling place seals are intact, confirm machines display zero totals before voting begins, observe that poll workers follow proper procedures, and report any irregularities to election officials immediately.

Key tips to verify legitimate communication during election season

Practicing good cybersecurity hygiene helps safeguard not only your information but also the integrity of democratic participation. Here are some key guidelines to stay secure online and protect your vote.

• Official election information only comes from verified .gov websites: Scammers often create legitimate-looking websites to trick voters into sharing personal data or clicking malicious links. When searching for election details, always rely on official .gov domains. These are verified and maintained by state and local election authorities, offering information that is accurate, secure, and up to date.
• Contact your state or local election office directly using official phone numbers: For voting-related questions, contact your state or local election office directly using details listed on verified .gov websites to ensure you receive accurate local information. Do not rely on social media, emails, or unofficial websites, as scammers often use these fake hotlines to collect personal data or sow disinformation.
• Deal only with verified election officials: Imposters may pose as officials through phone calls, emails, or even in person to collect your personal data or influence your vote. To confirm legitimacy, check any communication from an official .gov email address or website, verified government phone line, or your local election office.
• Verify “urgent” voting information through multiple official sources: During election season, scammers often spread “urgent” messages or “breaking news” to sow panic or confusion—such as changes in polling hours or locations—to suppress voter turnout. Always verify updates through official sources, such as your state’s .gov election website, local election office, or trusted news outlets.
• Update all your devices with the latest security patches: Before researching candidates, browsing election information, or logging into voter portals, make sure all your devices are running the latest versions. Security patches fix vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit to install malware or steal personal data.
• Use strong, unique passwords for voter-related accounts or portals. When creating strong, unique passwords for each election-related site you use, especially government or voter registration portals, use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols, and avoid personal details like birthdays or pet names. Password managers can help you generate and store complex passwords, reducing the risk of credential theft.
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible. Enabling 2FA on your email and voter-related accounts significantly strengthens your defense against unauthorized access. Even if hackers obtain your password, they won’t be able to log in without this additional confirmation.
• Report suspected election-related scams to your local officials and relevant authorities: If you encounter a suspicious website, message, or phone call related to voting—report it to your state or local election office, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency or the Federal Trade Commission. Authorities track malicious activity and protect other voters from falling victim to similar schemes.

These multi-layered protections work together to maintain election integrity, though gaps can emerge when procedures aren’t consistently followed or when oversight is insufficient.

Final thoughts

While online voting systems can’t be written off, ongoing cybersecurity challenges don’t bode well for the immediate future of these platforms.

While technology has transformed nearly every aspect of modern life—from shopping to banking, and working—applying that convenience to the voting booth still presents challenges. Security, transparency, and public trust remain at the core of any democratic process, and rushing toward online or paperless voting without upholding these principles could be harmful.

Progress is steadily being made, however, with advances in encryption and digital identity frameworks. With careful design, rigorous testing, and strong oversight, technology can enhance the safeguards that underpin election integrity.

For now, the most effective way to protect democracy is through awareness and participation. Stay informed about your state’s voting systems, verify election information only through official sources, and remain alert to misinformation and scams. Each responsible voter plays a part in strengthening the integrity of elections.

The post Hack the Vote: Pros and Cons of Electronic Voting appeared first on McAfee Blog.

Some years ago, a highly infectious computer worm called W32/Autorun was discovered to be infecting Windows computers. Unlike a virus, a worm such as W32/Autorun doesn’t steal anything from your computer. Instead, it spreads rapidly and opens as many security holes as possible to allow hackers to install a different form of malware that will eventually steal information, money, or both.

While this worm is less widespread today, it continues to infect older Windows operating systems that are not regularly updated. This guide will take a closer look at how the worm spreads and outline preventive measures to avoid infection.

Older Windows versions at risk

Autorun worms primarily affect older Windows systems such as Windows XP, Vista, and early versions of Windows 7, which had AutoRun enabled by default. Microsoft recognized this security vulnerability and significantly restricted AutoRun capabilities in newer Windows versions, but millions of older systems remain at risk if they haven’t been properly updated or configured.

When an autorun worm infects your system, it can compromise both your files and privacy in several ways by stealing personal documents, capturing passwords and banking information, or installing additional malware that monitors your online activities. Some variants encrypt your files for ransom, while others turn your computer into part of a botnet used for spam or cyberattacks. The infection can also spread to family members, friends, or colleagues when you share USB drives or connect to shared networks.

While this worm is less common today due to security updates in newer Windows operating systems, the concept of autorun malware is still relevant, often evolving into new forms that spread via malicious downloads, USB drives, or network shares. These forms use clever file drops and social engineering, with detection still relying on robust antivirus and user caution.

Key ways W32/Autorun bypasses your computer’s defenses

W32/Autorun is effective because it exploits everyday behaviors and outdated system features. Instead of forcing its way into your computer, it relies on built-in Windows functionality and simple tricks to get users to let it in, slip past basic defenses, and infect systems.

Easy way in via Windows AutoRun

An autorun worm spreads, as its name suggests, automatically through removable storage devices such as USB drives, external hard drives, and network shares. It takes advantage of Windows’ AutoRun and AutoPlay features to secretly execute itself when you connect the removable device to your computer that has AutoRun. A dialog box then pops up asking if you want to automatically run whatever is on the device. When you unsuspectingly click “run,” you’ve authorized the W32/Autorun worm. Once active, the worm copies itself to other connected drives and network locations, rapidly spreading to any system. While this feature was not included in Windows 8 for security reasons just like this, it still exists on many older machines that haven’t been updated in a while.

Fake folders lure victims in

Even if you don’t have Windows AutoRun enabled in your device, W32/Autorun disguises itself as interesting imposter files and folders with names like “porn” and “sexy” in infected flash drives or shared internet connections to trick you into downloading the worm. Once you click on the malicious file, it executes AutoRun and infects your computer.

The worm can also change your computer’s settings to allow it to run every time you boot up. Some variants even disable Windows updates to prevent the system from downloading security patches and ensure the worm can do its job of infecting every device your computer comes into contact with, opening the door for any virus a hacker wants to install at your expense.

Symptoms of a W32/Autorun worm infection

A W32/Autorun worm infection works quietly in the background, spreading to connected devices and weakening your system’s defenses without triggering immediate alarms. However, there are subtle signs that indicate the infection. Recognizing these early symptoms can help you take action to block the worm’s activities before it causes irreparable damage to your device and network:

• Slow performance: Your computer or internet connection may slow down due to the high processing usage that the worm requires as it actively searches for drives to infect.
• Presence of unfamiliar files/folders: The worm creates copies of itself and configuration files on infected drives, sometimes disguised with random names or enticing names such as “porn” or “sexy”.
• System instability: Your computer may begin freezing, crashing, or restarting unexpectedly as the worm runs multiple background processes while consuming system resources and interfering with normal operating functions.
• Modified settings: You might notice unexpected changes to your desktop, folder views, or system preferences without your input. These modifications are often made to hide malicious files or make it easier for the worm to run automatically.
• Loss of access to some features: Tools like Task Manager, Registry Editor, or Folder Options may suddenly become inaccessible. The worm disables these features to prevent you from stopping its processes or removing it manually.
• Disabled antivirus software or Windows updates: Your security software may stop working properly, or Windows updates may be turned off without explanation. This enables the worm to block security patches and scans that could remove it.
• Unusual network activity: You may notice unexplained internet traffic even when you’re not actively using your device. The worm could be contacting remote servers to report successful infections or download additional malicious components.
• Diminished storage space: Available disk space may shrink rapidly with no clear reason. This happens because the worm repeatedly copies itself across your system and connected drives.

Consequences of the W32/Autorun worm

The impact of the W32/Autorun worm can vary depending on the specific variant, ranging from minor annoyances to severe system compromise:

• System damage and further infection: The W32/Autorun worm acts as an entry point for attackers to silently install more dangerous malware, including data-stealing Trojans or destructive viruses.
• Data loss and corruption: Some variants can delete important files or corrupt stored data, making documents, photos, or applications unusable or permanently unreadable, even after the worm is removed.
• Disruption of operations: Because the worm consumes large amounts of processing power and memory in the background, it can slow down your device’s performance and stall programs to make daily computing tasks difficult.
• Unauthorized access and information theft: Certain W32/Autorun variants are capable of monitoring your online activity, including logging keystrokes, capturing login credentials, and stealing financial details or personal data.
• Aesthetic changes: Less destructive versions of the worm may focus on annoying changes such as altered desktop backgrounds, browser settings, or system appearance.

How to Prevent a W32/Autorun Infection

Preventing a W32/Autorun infection is largely about closing the simple security gaps the worm relies on to spread. By taking these steps, you can significantly reduce the chances of this worm gaining access to your computer.

1. Disable AutoRun

If your computer is still prompting you to automatically run applications each time you insert a CD, connect to a new network, or plug in a flash drive, update your computer as soon as possible. Visit the Microsoft website to learn how to disable AutoRun for your specific version of Windows.

2. Beware of shared removable devices

Remember that this worm is highly infectious. If you share a flash drive with a friend whose computer is infected, that flash drive will carry the worm to your computer. If you do need to share a device, make sure AutoRun is disabled before you plug it in, and check that your security protection has the capability to scan new drives to prevent you from clicking on infected files.

3. Use reliable antivirus

While the first two tips focus on prevention, a reliable security solution will not only prevent a W32/Autorun infection, but also remove it from your computer. Solutions like McAfee+ will catch the W32/Autorun worm bug and other similar malware, protecting you from accidentally spreading it to friends and family.

Final thoughts

Autorun worms represent a persistent threat that combines old vulnerabilities with modern attack techniques. Newer security measures may have reduced their impact, but these worms continue to target systems with outdated configurations through the continued use of removable media. This is why keeping systems updated and being cautious with external devices are important habits to apply.

In addition, you can protect yourself with proper security practices: disable AutoRun on older systems, keep your antivirus software updated, scan external devices before accessing their contents, and avoid connecting unknown USB drives to your computer.

The post Crush that Worm before It Creeps into Your Computer appeared first on McAfee Blog.

Even as passkeys and biometric sign-ins become more common, nearly every service still relies on a password somewhere in the process—email, banking, social media, health portals, streaming, work accounts, and device logins.

Most people, however, don’t realize the many ways we make our accounts vulnerable due to weak passwords, enabling hackers to easily crack them. In truth, password security isn’t complicated once you understand what attackers do and what habits stop them.

In this guide, we will look into the common mistakes we make in creating passwords and offer tips on how you can improve your password security. With a few practical changes, you can make your accounts dramatically harder to compromise.

Password security basics

Modern password strength comes down to three truths. First, length matters more than complexity. Every extra character multiplies the number of guesses an attacker must make. Second, unpredictability matters because attack tools prioritize the most expected human choices first. Third, usability matters because rules that are painful to follow lead to workarounds like reuse, tiny variations, or storing written passwords in unsafe ways. Strong password security is a system you can sustain, not a heroic one-time effort.

Protection that strong passwords provide

Strong passwords serve as digital barriers that are more difficult for attackers to compromise. Mathematically, password strength works in your favor when you choose well. A password containing 12 characters with a mix of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols creates over 95 trillion possible combinations. Even with advanced computing power, testing all these combinations requires substantial time and resources that most attackers prefer to invest in easier targets.

This protection multiplies when you use a unique password for each account. Instead of one compromised password providing access to multiple services, attackers must overcome several independent security challenges, dramatically reducing your overall risk profile.

Benefits of good password habits

Developing strong password security habits offers benefits beyond protecting your accounts. These habits contribute to your overall digital security posture and create positive momentum for other security improvements, such as:

• Reduced attack success: Strong, unique passwords make you a less attractive target for cybercriminals who prefer easier opportunities.
• Faster recovery: When security incidents do occur, good password practices limit the scope of damage and accelerate recovery.
• Peace of mind: Knowing your accounts are well-protected reduces anxiety about potential security threats.
• Professional credibility: Good security habits demonstrate responsibility and competence in professional settings.
• Family protection: Your security practices often protect family members who share devices or accounts.

The impact of weak passwords

On the other hand, weak passwords are not just a mild inconvenience. They enable account takeovers and identity theft, and can become the master key to your other accounts. Here’s a closer look at the consequences:

Your digital identity becomes someone else’s

Account takeover happens when cybercriminals gain unauthorized access to your online accounts using compromised credentials. They could impersonate you across your entire digital presence, from email to social media. For instance, they can send malicious messages to your contacts, make unauthorized purchases, and change your account recovery information to lock you out permanently.

The effects of an account takeover can persist for years. You may discover that attackers used your accounts to create new accounts in your name, resulting in damaged relationships and credit scores, contaminated medical records, employment difficulties, and legal complications with law enforcement.

The immediate and hidden costs of financial loss

Financial losses from password-related breaches aren’t limited to money stolen from your accounts. Additional costs often include:

• Bank penalty fees from overdrawn accounts
• Needing to hire credit monitoring services to prevent future fraud
• Legal fees for professional help resolving complex cases
• Lost income from time spent dealing with fraud resolution
• Higher insurance premiums due to damaged credit

The stress and time required to resolve these issues also affect your overall well-being and productivity.

Your personal life becomes public

Your passwords also guard your personal communications, private photos, confidential documents, and intimate details about your life. When these barriers fail, you could find your personal photos and messages shared without consent, confidential business information in competitors’ hands. The psychological, emotional, and professional impact of violated trust can persist long after the immediate crisis passes.

15 tips for better password security: Small steps, big impact

You can dramatically improve your password security with relatively small changes. No need to invest in expensive or highly technical tools to substantially improve your security. Here are some simple tips for better password security:

1) Long passwords are better than short, “complex” passwords

If you take away only one insight from this article, let it be this: password length is your biggest advantage. A long password creates a search effort that brute force tools will take a long time to finish. Instead of trying to remember short strings packed with symbols, use passphrases made of several unrelated words. Something like “candle-river-planet-tiger-47” is both easy to recall and extremely hard to crack. For most accounts, 12–16 characters is a solid minimum; for critical accounts, longer is even better.

2) Never reuse passwords

Password reuse is the reason credential stuffing works. When one site is breached, attackers immediately test those leaked credentials on other services. If you reuse those credentials, you have effectively given the keys to your kingdom. Unique passwords can block that entry. Even if a shopping site leaks your password, your email and banking stay protected because their passwords are different.

3) Don’t use your personal information

Attackers always try the obvious human choices first: names, birthdays, pets, favorite teams, cities, schools, and anything else that could be pulled from social media or public records. Even combinations that feel “creative,” such as a pet name plus a year, tend to be predictable to cracking tools. Your password should be unrelated to your life.

4) Avoid patterns and common substitutions

In the past, security experts encouraged people to replace letters with symbols such as turning “password” into “P@ssw0rd” and calling it secure. That advice no longer holds today, as attack tools catch these patterns instantly. The same goes for keyboard walks (qwerty, asdfgh), obvious sequences (123456), and small variations like “MyPassword1” and “MyPassword2.” If your password pattern makes sense to a human, a modern cracking tool will decipher it in seconds.

5) Use a randomness method you trust

Humans think they’re random, but they aren’t. We pick symbols and words that look good together, follow habits, and reuse mental templates. Two reliable ways to break that habit are using Diceware—an online dice-rolling tool that selects words from a list—and password generators, which create randomness better than your human brain. In addition, the variety of characters in your password impacts its strength. Using only lowercase letters gives you 26 possible characters per position, while combining uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols expands this to over 90 possibilities.

6) Match password strength to account importance

Not every account needs the same level of complexity, but every account needs to be better than weak. For email, banking, and work systems, use longer passphrases or manager-generated passwords of 20 characters or more. For daily convenience accounts such as shopping or social media, a slightly shorter but still unique passphrase is fine. For low-stakes logins you rarely use, still keep at least a 12-character unique password. This keeps your accounts secure without being mentally exhausting.

7) Turn on multi-factor authentication where possible

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds a second checkpoint in your security, stopping most account takeovers even if your password leaks. Authenticator apps are stronger than SMS codes, which can be intercepted in SIM-swap attacks. Hardware or physical security keys are even stronger. Start with your email and financial accounts, then expand to everything that offers MFA.

8) Learn to spot phishing scams to prevent stolen passwords

A perfect password is useless if you type it into the wrong place. Phishing attacks work by imitating legitimate login pages or sending urgent messages that push you to click. Build the habit of checking URLs in unsolicited emails or texts, being wary of pressure tactics, and taking a moment to question the message. When in doubt, open a fresh tab and navigate to the service directly.

9) Avoid signing in on shared devices

You may not know it, but shared computers may carry keyloggers, unsafe browser extensions, or saved sessions from other users. If you have no choice but to sign in using a shared device, don’t allow the browser to save your log-in details, log out fully afterward, and change the password later from your own device.

10) Be careful with public Wi-Fi

On public networks in places like such as cafes or airports, cybercriminals could be prowling for their next victim. Attackers sometimes create fake hotspots with familiar names to trick people into connecting. Even on real public Wi-Fi, traffic can be intercepted. The safest choice is to avoid logging into sensitive accounts on public networks. If you must use public Wi-Fi, protect yourself by using a reputable virtual private network and verify the site uses HTTPS.

11) Ensure your devices, apps, and security tools are updated

Many password thefts happen as a result of compromised devices and software. Outdated operating systems and browsers can contain security vulnerabilities known to hackers, leading to malware invasion, session hijacking, or credential harvesting. The best recourse is to set up automatic updates for your OS, browser, and antivirus tool to remove a huge chunk of risk with no additional effort from you.

12) Use a reputable password manager

Password managers solve two hard problems at once: creating strong unique passwords and remembering them. They store credentials in an encrypted vault protected by a master password, generate high-entropy passwords automatically, and often autofill only on legitimate sites (which also helps against phishing). In practice, password managers are what make “unique passwords everywhere” feasible.

13) Protect your password manager like it’s your digital vault

Among all others, your master password that opens your password manager is the one credential you must memorize. Make it long, passphrase-style, and make sure you have never reused it anywhere else. Then add MFA to the manager itself. This makes it extremely difficult for someone to get into your vault even if they somehow learn your master password.

14) Audit and update passwords when there’s a reason

The old “change every 90 days no matter what” guideline could backfire, leading to password-creation fatigue and encouraging people to make only tiny predictable tweaks. A smarter approach is to update only when something changes in your risk: a breach, a suspicious login alert, or a health warning from your password manager. For critical accounts, doing a yearly review is a reasonable rhythm.

15) Reduce your attack surface by cleaning up old accounts

Unused accounts are easy to forget and easy to compromise. Delete services you don’t use anymore, and review which third-party apps are connected to your Google, Apple, Microsoft, or social logins. Each unnecessary connection is another doorway you don’t need open.

Practical implementation strategies for passphrases

As mentioned in the tips above, passphrases have become the better, more secure alternative to traditional passwords. A passphrase is essentially a long password made up of multiple words, forming a phrase or sentence that’s meaningful to you but not easily guessed by others.

Attackers use sophisticated programs that can guess billions of predictable password combinations per second using common passwords, dictionary words, and patterns. But when you string together four random words, you create over 1.7 trillion possible combinations, even though the vocabulary base contains only 2,000 common words.

Your brain, meanwhile, is great at remembering stories and images. When you think “Coffee Bicycle Mountain 47,” you might imagine riding your bike up a mountain with your morning coffee, stopping at mile marker 47. That mental image sticks with you in ways that “K7#mQ9$x” never could.

The approach blending unpredictability and the human ability to remember stories offers the ideal combination of security and usability.

To help you create more effective passphrases, here are a few principles you can follow:

• Use unrelated words: Choose words that don’t naturally go together. “Sunset beach volleyball Thursday” is more predictable than “elephant tumbler stapler running” because the first phrase contains related concepts.
• Add personal meaning: While the words shouldn’t be personally identifiable, you can create a mental story or image that helps you remember them. This personal connection makes the passphrase memorable without making it guessable.
• Avoid quotes and common phrases: Don’t use song lyrics, movie quotes, or famous sayings. These appear in dictionaries and can be vulnerable to specialized attacks.
• The sentence method: Create a memorable sentence and use the first letter of each word, plus some numbers or punctuation. “I graduated from college in 2010 with a 3.8 GPA!” becomes “IgfCi2010wa3.8GPA!” This method naturally creates long, unique passwords.
• The story method: Create a memorable short story using random elements and turn it into a passphrase. “The purple elephant drove a motorcycle to the library on Tuesday” becomes “PurpleElephantMotorcycleLibraryTuesday” or can be used as-is with spaces.
• The combination method: Combine a strong base passphrase with site-specific elements. For example, if your base is “CoffeeShopRainbowUnicorn,” you might add “Amazon” for your Amazon account: “CoffeeShopRainbowUnicornAmazon.”
• Use mixed case: For maximum security, the mixed-case approach capitalizes on random letters within words: “coFfee biCycLe mouNtain 47.” This dramatically increases entropy while remaining typeable.
• Add symbols: When used sparingly, this technique adds complexity. You can separate the words or substitute some letters with random symbols. But make sure you will remember them.
• Use words from other languages: Multi-language passphrases offer a layer of security, assuming you’re comfortable with multiple languages. “Coffee Bicicleta Mountain Vier” combines English, Spanish, and German words, creating combinations that appear in no standard dictionary.
• Personalize it: For the security-conscious, consider adding random elements that hold personal meaning, as long as this information isn’t publicly available. It could be the coordinates of a special place or a funny inside story within your family.

Password managers: Your password vault

Password managers are encrypted digital vaults that store all your login credentials behind a single master password. They are your personal security assistant that never forgets, never sleeps, and constantly works to keep your accounts protected with unique, complex passwords.

Modern password managers create passwords that are truly random, combining uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters in patterns that are virtually impossible for cybercriminals to guess or crack through brute force attacks. These passwords typically range from 12 to 64 characters long, exceeding what most people could realistically remember or type consistently.

Encryption scrambles your passwords

The encrypted format scrambles your passwords using advanced cryptographic algorithms before being saved. This means that even if someone gained access to your password manager’s servers, your actual passwords would appear as meaningless strings of random characters without the encryption key. Only you possess this key through your master password.

The auto-fill functionality also offers convenience, recognizing the login page of your account and instantly filling in your username and password with a single click or keystroke. This seamless process happens across operating systems, browsers, and devices—your computer, smartphone, and tablet—keeping your credentials synchronized and accessible wherever you need them.

Choose a reputable password manager

Selecting the right password manager requires careful consideration of several factors that directly impact your security and user experience.

The reputation and track record of the company offering the password manager should be your first consideration. Look for companies that have been operating in the security space for several years and have a transparent approach to security practices.

Reputable companies regularly undergo independent security audits by third-party cybersecurity firms to examine the password manager’s code, encryption methods, and overall security architecture. Companies that publish these audit results demonstrate transparency and commitment to security.

Also consider password managers that use AES-256 encryption, currently the gold standard for data protection used by government agencies and financial institutions worldwide. Additionally, ensure the password manager employs zero-knowledge architecture, meaning the company cannot access your passwords even if they wanted to.

Intuitive user interface, reliable auto-fill functionality, responsive customer support, and ease of use should be checked as well. A password manager that is confusing to navigate or constantly malfunctions will likely be abandoned, defeating the purpose of improved password security.

Choose a solution that offers other features aside from the basic password storage. Modern password managers often include secure note storage for sensitive information such as Social Security numbers, passport details, password sharing capabilities for family accounts, and dark web monitoring that alerts you if your credentials appear in data breaches.

Final thoughts

Strong password security doesn’t have to be complicated. Small changes you make today can dramatically improve your digital security. By creating unique, lengthy passwords or passphrases for each account and enabling multi-factor authentication on your most important services, you’re taking control of your online safety.

Consider adopting a reputable password manager to simplify the process while maximizing your protection. It’s one of the smartest investments you can make for your digital security.

The post 15 Vital Tips To Better Password Security appeared first on McAfee Blog.

Social media platforms connect you to thousands of people worldwide. But while these platforms offer incredible opportunities for bonding, learning, and entertainment, they also present personal security challenges. Navigating them safely requires being aware of risks and proactively protecting your accounts.

The three most common risks you’ll encounter are privacy exposure, account takeover, and scams. Privacy exposure occurs when your personal information becomes visible to unintended audiences, potentially leading to identity theft, stalking, or professional damage. You have control over your social media security. By implementing safe social media practices, you can dramatically reduce your risk exposure.

This guide rounds up 15 practical, everyday tips to help you secure your accounts and use them more safely. It covers smart posting habits, safer clicking and app-permission choices, stronger privacy settings, and core security basics like using updated browsers, reliable protection tools, and identity-theft safeguards—so you can enjoy social media without making yourself an easy target.

Before we dive in, we want to remind you first that our strongest recommendation amid anything and everything unsolicited, unusual, or suspicious on social media is this: verify, verify, verify through separate communication channels such as phone, email, and official websites.

15 top tips to stay safer on social media

1. Realize that you can become a victim at any time.

Not a day goes by when we don’t hear about a new hack. With 450,000 new pieces of malware released to the internet every day, security never sleeps. For your increased awareness, here’s a short list of the most common social media scams:

• Giveaway and lottery scams: Fake contests promising expensive prizes like iPhones, gift cards, or cash in exchange for personal information or payment of “processing fees” before you can claim your prize.
• Impersonation scams: Criminals create fake profiles mimicking friends, family members, celebrities, or trusted organizations to build false relationships and extract money or information from you. One warning sign is that the direct message, link, or post will originate from accounts with limited posting history or generic profile photos.
• Romance scams: Fraudsters develop fake romantic relationships on social platforms over time, eventually requesting money for emergencies, travel, or other fabricated situations. Never send money to someone you’ve only met online and use reverse image searches to verify profile photos aren’t stolen.
• Fake job offers: Scammers will post attractive employment opportunities, promising unrealistic salaries for minimal work. During your “onboarding,” the fake HR person will require upfront payments for equipment, training, or background checks, or use job interviews to harvest personal information such as Social Security numbers.
• Cryptocurrency and investment scams: Fraudulent investment schemes promise guaranteed returns through cryptocurrency trading, forex, or other financial opportunities, often using fake testimonials and urgent time pressure. The fraudsters will promise guaranteed high returns, pressure you to invest quickly, and ask you to recruit friends and family into the “opportunity.”
• Charity and disaster relief scams: Fake charitable organizations exploit current events, natural disasters, or humanitarian crises to solicit donations that never reach legitimate causes. They will pressure you for immediate donations, offer vague descriptions about how funds will be used, and request cash, gift cards, or cryptocurrency payments.
• Shopping and marketplace spoofing: Phony online stores or marketplace sellers advertise products at suspiciously low prices, then collect payment but will never deliver the goods. If they do, it will likely be counterfeit. Be on guard for prices that are way below market value, poorly presented websites or badly written advertisements, pressure tactics, and limited payment options.

2. Think before you post.

Social media is quite engaging, with all the funny status updates, photos, and comments. However, all these bits of information can reveal more about you than you intended to disclose. The examples below might be extreme, but they are real-world scenarios that continue to happen to real people daily on social media:

• Social engineering attacks: When you post details about your daily routine, workplace, or family members, scammers can use this information to build trust and manipulate you into revealing more sensitive information. Limit sharing specific details about your schedule and locations.
• Employment and reputation damage: Potential employers increasingly review social media profiles during hiring processes, and controversial opinions, inappropriate content, or unprofessional behavior can eliminate your chances of being hired for job opportunities or damage your professional reputation. Similarly, personal relationships may be strained when private information is shared publicly or when posts reveal information that others expected to remain confidential.
• Financial scams and fraud: Sharing details about expensive purchases, vacations, or financial situations makes you a target for scammers who craft personalized fraud attempts. Apply safe social media practices by avoiding posts about money, luxury items, or financial struggles that could attract unwanted attention from fraudsters.

3. Nothing good comes from filling out a “25 Most Amazing Things About You” survey.

Oversharing on social media creates significant risks that extend beyond embarrassment or regret. Identity thieves actively monitor social platforms for personal information they can use to answer security questions, predict passwords, or impersonate you in social engineering attacks.

Avoid publicly answering questionnaires with details like your middle name, as this is the type of information financial institutions—and identity thieves—may use to verify your identity.

• Password reset clues: Sharing your birth date, hometown, or pet’s name gives cybercriminals the answers to common security questions used in password resets. Do your best to keep personal details private and use unique, unguessable answers for security questions that only you would know.
• Identity theft: Oversharing personal information such as your full name, address, phone number, and family details gives identity thieves the building blocks to impersonate you or open accounts in your name. In addition, these details frequently serve as backup authentication methods for your email or bank accounts. You wouldn’t want identity thieves to know them, then. Protect your accounts by tightening privacy settings and limiting the information in your profile and posts.
• Doxxing: This publication of your private information without consent is another malicious consequence of oversharing. Your seemingly harmless social media posts can be combined with other public records to reveal your home address, workplace information, and family details, which can then be used to harass, intimidate, or endanger you and your loved ones as part of a scam or revenge scheme.
• Data collection: The scope of data collection and its potential for misuse continues to evolve. Anything you share on social media becomes data for hundreds of third-party companies for advertising and analytics purposes that you may not realize. This widespread distribution of your personal information increases the odds that your data will be involved in a breach or used in nefarious ways.

4. Think twice about applications that request permission to access your data.

Third-party apps with excessive permissions can access your personal data, post to social media at any time on your behalf, or serve as entry points for attackers, regardless of whether you’re using the application. To limit app access and reduce your attack surface significantly, review all apps and services connected to your social media accounts. Revoke permissions to applications you no longer use or don’t remember authorizing.

5. Don’t click on short links that don’t clearly show the link location.

Shortened links can be exploited in social media phishing attacks as they hide the final destination URL, making it difficult for you to determine where it actually leads. These tactics mimic legitimate communications from trusted sources and come in the form of direct messages, comments, sponsored posts, and fake verification alerts, all in an effort to steal your personal information, login credentials, or financial details. Often, these attacks appear as urgent messages claiming your account will be suspended or fake prize notifications.

When you identify phishing attempts, immediately report and block the suspicious accounts using the platform’s built-in reporting features. This will protect not only you but other users on the platform.

If the link is posted by a product seller or service provider, it is a good idea to:

1. Verify the link independently: Don’t click suspicious links or download files from unknown sources. Instead, navigate to official websites directly by typing the URL yourself or using trusted search engines.
2. Verify the profile before engaging: Look for verified checkmarks, consistent posting history spanning several months or years, and mutual connections. As scammers often use stolen photos, check if the photo appears elsewhere online by doing a reverse image search.
3. Use only trusted payment methods: Stick to secure payment platforms with buyer protection such as PayPal, credit cards, or official app payment systems. Never send money through wire transfers, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or peer-to-peer payment apps to strangers, as these transactions are irreversible and untraceable.
4. Research sellers and causes thoroughly: Before making any purchase or donation, search for the business name online, check reviews on multiple sites, and verify charity registration numbers through official databases. Look up the organization’s official website and ensure that the business has verifiable contact information, a physical address, and good reviews.
5. Keep conversations on the platform: Legitimate sellers and organizations rarely need to move discussions to private messaging apps, email, or phone calls immediately. When scammers push you off-platform, they’re avoiding security measures and community reporting systems.

6. Beware of posts with subjects along the lines of, “LOL! Look at the video I found of you!”

You might think the video or link relates directly to you. But when you click it, you get a message saying that you need to upgrade your video player in order to see the clip. When you attempt to download the “upgrade,” the malicious page will instead install malware that tracks and steals your data. As mentioned, don’t click suspicious links or download files from unknown sources before verifying independently. Visit the official websites by directly typing the URL yourself or using trusted search engines.

This also brings us to the related topic of being tagged on other people’s content. If you don’t want certain content to be associated with you, adjust the settings that enable you to review posts and photos before they appear on your profile. This allows you to maintain control over your digital presence and prevents embarrassing or inappropriate content associations.

7. Be suspicious of anything that sounds unusual or feels odd.

If one of your friends posts, “We’re stuck in Cambodia and need money,” keep your radar up as it’s most likely a scam. It is possible that a scammer has taken over your friend’s account, and is using it to impersonate them, spread malicious content, or extract sensitive information from their contacts, including you. Don’t engage with this post or the fraudster, otherwise the next account takeover could be yours.

In this kind of scam, some critical areas of your life are affected:

• Financially, successful attacks can result in unauthorized purchases, drained bank accounts, or damaged credit scores through identity theft.
• Your reputation faces threats from impersonation, where attackers post harmful content under your name, or from oversharing personal information that employers, colleagues, or family members might frown upon.
• In terms of misusing your identity, criminals could further exploit your social media profile by collecting data from your posts to conduct other fraudulent activities, from opening accounts in your name to bypassing security questions on other services.

When you encounter suspicious activity, always use official support pages rather than responding to questionable messages. Major social media platforms provide dedicated help centers and verified contact methods.

• Configure message and comment filtering: Set up keyword filters to automatically block suspicious messages and enable message request filtering from unknown users. This helps you verify suspicious messages on social media before they reach your main inbox.
• Watch for urgency and pressure tactics: Scammers create false urgency through “limited time offers” or “emergency situations” to prevent you from thinking clearly. Legitimate opportunities and genuine emergencies allow time for verification.

8. Understand your privacy settings.

Select the most secure options and check periodically for changes that can open up your profile to the public. Depending on your preference and the privacy level you are comfortable with, you can choose from these options:

• Public profiles make your content searchable and accessible to anyone, including potential employers, strangers, and data collectors. This setting maximizes your visibility and networking potential but also increases your exposure to unwanted contact and data harvesting.
• Friends-only profiles limit your content to approved connections, balancing your social interaction and privacy protection. This setting, however, doesn’t prevent your approved friends from reposting your content or protect you from data collection.
• Private profiles provide the highest level of content protection, requiring approval for anyone to see your posts. While this setting offers maximum control over your audience, it can limit legitimate networking opportunities and may not protect you from all forms of data collection.

We suggest that you review your privacy settings every three months, as platforms frequently update their policies and default settings. While you are at it, take the opportunity to audit your friend lists and remove inactive or suspicious accounts.

9. Reconsider broadcasting your location.

Posting real-time locations or check-ins can alert potential stalkers to your whereabouts and routine patterns, while geo-tagged photos can reveal where you live, study, work, shop, or work out. Location sharing creates patterns that criminals can exploit for security threats such as stalking, harassment, and other physical crimes.

To avoid informing scammers of your whereabouts, turn off location tagging in your social media apps and avoid posting about your routine. You might also consider disabling “last seen” or “active now” indicators that show when you’re online. This prevents others from monitoring your social media activity patterns and reduces unwanted contact attempts, significantly improving your personal and family safety while maintaining your ability to share experiences.

10. Use an updated browser, social media app, and devices.

Older browsers tend to have more security flaws and often don’t recognize newer scam patterns, while updated versions are crucial for security by patching vulnerabilities. Updates add or improve privacy controls such as tracking prevention, cookie partitioning, third-party cookie blocking, stronger HTTPS enforcement, transparent permission prompts. They also support newer HTML/CSS/JavaScript features, video and audio codecs, payment and login standards, and accessibility features.

In terms of performance, new browser versions offer faster performance, better memory management, and more efficient rendering, so you get fewer freezes, less fan noise, and longer battery life and better extension compatibility.

11. Choose unique logins and passwords for each of the websites you use.

Consider using password managers, which can create and store secure passwords for you. Never reuse passwords across platforms. This practice ensures that if one account is compromised, your other accounts remain secure. Password managers also help you monitor for breached credentials and update passwords regularly.

In addition, implement multi-factor authentication (MFA)on every social media account using authenticator apps. This single step can protect social media accounts from 99% of automated attacks. MFA enforcement should be non-negotiable for both personal and business accounts, as it adds critical security that makes account takeovers exponentially more difficult.

12. Check the domain to be sure that you’re logging into a legitimate website.

Scammers build fake login pages that look identical to real ones. The only obvious difference is usually the domain. They want you to type your username/password into their site, so they can steal it. So if you’re visiting a Facebook page, make sure you look for the https://www.facebook.com address.

The rule is to read the domain from right to left because the real domain is usually the last two meaningful segments before the slash. For instance, https://security.facebook.com—read from right to left—is legitimate because the main domain is facebook.com, and “security” is just a subdomain.

Watch out for scam patterns such as:

• Look-alike domains such as faceboook.com (extra “o”), facebook-login.com, fb-support.com.
• Subdomain tricks that hide the real domain such as https://facebook.com.login-security-check.ru.

13. Be cautious of anything that requires an additional login.

Within the social media platform, scammers often insert a “second” sign-in step to capture your credentials. A common trick is sending you to a page that looks like a normal email, business, or bank website but then suddenly asks you to log in again “to continue,” “to verify your identity,” or “because your session expired.” That extra login prompt is frequently a fake overlay or a malicious look-alike page designed to steal passwords.

Clicking a shared document link, viewing a receipt, or checking a delivery status usually shouldn’t require you to re-enter your email and password—especially if you’re already signed in elsewhere. Another example is a fake security notification claiming your account has been compromised, directing you to another page or website that requires a new login. Attackers usually rely on urgency, panic, and habit; you might be so used to logging in all the time, that you could do it automatically without noticing the context is wrong.

A safer habit is to stop and reset the flow. If something unexpectedly asks for another login, don’t use the embedded prompt. Instead, open a new tab, type the site’s official address yourself, check account status, and log in there if needed. If the request was legitimate, it will still work once you’re signed in through the official site; if it was a trap, you’ve just avoided handing over your credentials.

14. Make sure your security suite is up to date.

Your suite should include an antivirus, anti-spyware, anti-spam, a firewall, and a website safety advisor. Keeping your security suite up to date is essential as threats evolve daily, and outdated protection can miss new malware, phishing kits, ransomware variants, and scam techniques. Updates also patch security weaknesses in the software itself, improve detection technologies, and add protections for newer attack methods.

The McAfee Social Privacy Manager extends “security updates” beyond your device and into your social media footprint by scanning your privacy settings across supported platforms, flagging exposures, and recommending safer configurations. Because social platforms frequently change their settings and defaults, Social Privacy Manager also needs to stay updated to recognize and apply the right privacy protections.

15. Invest in identity theft protection.

Regardless of how careful you may be or any security systems you put in place, there is always a chance that you can be compromised in some way. It’s nice to have identity theft protection watching your back.

McAfee+ combines every day device security with identity monitoring in one suite. Depending on the plan, McAfee+ can watch for your personal info on the dark web and breach databases, monitor financial and credit activity, and send real-time alerts for anomalies. The Advanced and Ultimate plans add wider support such as credit monitoring and tracking for bank or investment accounts, as well as tools that reduce your exposure such as Personal Data Cleanup that removes your info from data broker sites. It doesn’t just warn you after a breach; it helps shrink the chances your data gets misused in the first place.

Final thoughts

Social media brings incredible opportunities, but privacy exposure, scams, and account takeovers remain real challenges that can impact your finances, reputation, and personal security. The tips outlined above give you practical ways to recognize the risks and protect your social media accounts. By raising your level of awareness and applying safe social media practices, you are building a stronger defense against evolving threats.

Make security a family affair by sharing these safe social media practices with everyone in your household—especially children and teens who use social media—so they can enjoy a safer experience.

The post 15 Critical Tips to Stay Safe on Social Media appeared first on McAfee Blog.

A determined cybercriminal can find ways to guess or predict an individual’s Social Security number, which increases the risk of identity theft for all of us.

In 2009, researchers from Carnegie Mellon University revealed that a reliable method for predicting Social Security numbers was discovered using information from social networking sites, data brokers, voter registration lists, online white pages, and the publicly available Social Security Administration’s Death Master File.

Originally, the first three numbers on a Social Security card represented the state in which a person had initially applied for their card. Numbers started in the Northeast and moved westward. This meant that people born on the East Coast were assigned the lowest numbers and those born on the West Coast were assigned the highest numbers. Before 1986, people were rarely assigned a Social Security number until age 14 or so, since the numbers were used for income tracking purposes.

The Carnegie Mellon research

The Carnegie Mellon researchers were able to guess the first five digits of a Social Security number on their first attempt for 44% of people born after 1988. For those in less populated states, the researchers had a 90% success rate. In fewer than 1,000 attempts, the researchers could identify a complete Social Security number, “making SSNs akin to 3-digit financial PINs.” The researchers concluded, “Unless mitigating strategies are implemented, the predictability of SSNs exposes people born after 1988 to risks of identity theft on mass scales.”

To address this security gap, the Social Security Administration in 2011 changed the way SSNs are issued by randomizing number assignment to make predicting patterns more difficult. While this is certainly an accomplishment, the potential to predict Social Security numbers is the least of our problems. Social Security numbers can be found in unprotected file cabinets and databases in thousands of government offices, corporations, and educational institutions, exposing people to identity theft and other related risks. With the growing losses from all identity theft cases, protecting SSNs is a serious concern.

Your SSN: It’s more than a string of numbers

Your Social Security number might be only nine digits, but in the wrong hands, it can act like a master key that unlocks far more. It can reveal details about your life, serving as a powerful linking tool for cybercriminals to access or verify other personal details and build a more comprehensive profile of your identity.

• Credit and financial information: When combined with other identity elements, such as your name and address, your SSN can help criminals access your credit reports and financial accounts. Fortunately, legitimate financial institutions require multiple forms of verification beyond your SSN, including security questions, account numbers, and authentication codes sent to your registered devices.
• Government benefits access: Your SSN serves as a key identifier for Social Security benefits, Medicare, unemployment claims, and tax refunds. Criminals may attempt to file fraudulent claims using your SSN, but the Social Security Administration has implemented stronger identity verification requiring additional documentation and in-person visits for many services.
• Employment records: While your SSN identity theft risk includes employment fraud, most employers now use E-Verify and require physical documentation such as driver’s licenses and passports. Your SSN alone typically isn’t enough for someone to successfully impersonate you for employment, though it can be part of a broader identity theft scheme.
• Medical records and insurance: Healthcare providers use SSNs to verify insurance coverage and access medical histories. Criminals have attempted medical identity theft, but most healthcare systems now require photo ID, insurance cards, and often biometric verification to access sensitive medical information and services.

Your stolen SSN could be on the dark web

Your Social Security number is one of your most private identifiers, but in today’s data economy, it can quietly slip into criminal marketplaces on the dark web. Even if you’re careful with your information, you can’t control how organizations protect the data they collect from you. These exposures often result from data breaches, scams, or systems you had to trust — employers, hospitals, banks, schools, and even government agencies. When your SSN shows up there, it’s usually bundled with your other information—name, birthdate, address—making it far more valuable and dangerous than a random number on its own.

Being familiar with the common paths that take your SSN to the dark web will help you recognize and avoid the risks earlier, and act fast if your information is ever compromised.

• Third-party data breaches: Your SSN could end up on the dark web when companies, healthcare providers, or government agencies you’ve shared it with experience security breaches. Recent high-profile incidents have exposed millions of records, including major credit reporting agencies and healthcare systems.
• Device malware and info-stealing attacks: Cybercriminals use sophisticated malware that can capture data as you type, including Social Security numbers entered on tax forms, job applications, or financial websites. Banking trojans and keyloggers specifically target sensitive information for sale on illicit markets.
• Phishing schemes and social engineering: Scammers impersonate trusted organizations like the IRS, your bank, or employers and create convincing fake websites, emails, or phone calls that trick you into “verifying” your SSN. They will claim your SSN has been “suspended” or “compromised,” threaten you with arrest or legal action, or request to verify your SSN for any reason. Pressure tactics and demands for immediate action are classic red flags.
• Compromised data brokers: Data brokers legally collect and sell personal information, gathered from public records, social media, and other sources, creating comprehensive profiles that become valuable targets for cybercriminals. When their systems are breached, your SSN and other details can be exposed.
• Social engineering of service providers: Criminals sometimes target employees at companies that handle your information, manipulating them to gain unauthorized access to customer records. Call center representatives, healthcare workers, or government employees may be tricked into providing access to systems containing SSNs.
• Account takeovers: Account takeovers occur when criminals gain access to your existing accounts through stolen passwords, security question answers, or two-factor authentication bypasses. Once inside accounts at financial institutions, healthcare providers, or government services, they can view stored SSNs or use account access to request more information.
• Mailbox theft: Physical mail theft remains a surprisingly effective way for criminals to guess or find documents containing your SSN. Tax documents, insurance statements, pre-approved credit offers, and government correspondence often contain complete or partial Social Security numbers that help criminals piece together your identity.
• Public records: Public records databases, court filings, property records, and voter registration information sometimes contain complete or partial SSNs. While efforts have been made to remove SSNs from public records, older documents and some current filings may still expose this information.

The doors that open with your Social Security Number

Once criminals have your SSN, they can do a range of fraudulent activities that can compromise your relationships, health, career, financial standing, and even your freedom. A single SSN can fuel everything from credit and loan scams to tax fraud, medical identity theft, and even long-term schemes like synthetic identities. Here are some examples:

• New account fraud: Criminals could use your SSN and other personal information to open credit cards, loans, or bank accounts in your name. This can destroy your credit score and leave you responsible for fraudulent debt that can take years to resolve.
• Tax refund fraud: Scammers file fake tax returns using your SSN to claim your refund before you file your legitimate return. This leaves you dealing with IRS complications and delays in receiving your actual refund, often extending into the following tax year.
• Medical identity theft: When someone uses your SSN to receive medical care, prescription drugs, or submit insurance claims, it can contaminate your medical records with incorrect information and exhaust your insurance benefits. This puts your health at risk and can result in thousands in fraudulent medical bills.
• Government benefits fraud: Criminals apply for unemployment benefits, Social Security benefits, or other government assistance using your SSN. This complicates your own eligibility and creates tax complications when benefits are reported under your name.
• Employment fraud: Someone may use your SSN for employment, which means their income gets reported to the IRS under your name, potentially affecting your tax liability and Social Security benefits calculation. You might receive unexpected tax documents or face complications with the IRS over unreported income you never earned.
• SIM swap setup: Your SSN serves as a verification tool when criminals attempt to transfer your phone number to their device, giving them access to two-factor authentication codes and potentially your financial accounts. This can lead to rapid-fire account takeovers across multiple platforms.
• Synthetic identity creation: Fraudsters combine your real SSN with fake names and addresses to create entirely new identities for long-term fraud schemes. These synthetic identities can build credit over time, making the fraud harder to detect and potentially more damaging when discovered.

Verify and block anyone using your Social Security Number

Social Security identity theft isn’t always obvious right away. In many cases, people don’t realize their SSN has been compromised until weeks or months later. If you want to know if your SSN has been misused, there are clear warning signs and reliable ways to check. By reviewing a few key records, you can spot red flags early and shut down fraud before it snowballs into a long, expensive recovery process.

1. Check your credit reports: Request your free annual credit reports from federally authorized sources. Look for accounts you didn’t open, credit inquiries you didn’t authorize, or addresses you’ve never lived at. You’re entitled to one free report from Experian, Equifax, or TransUnion every 12 months, so stagger them quarterly for ongoing monitoring.
2. Set up fraud alerts and credit monitoring: Place a fraud alert with any of the three credit bureaus to require creditors to verify your identity before opening new accounts. Consider setting up account alerts with your bank and credit card companies as well to notify you of unusual activity. These notifications can catch SSN identity theft early before damage occurs.
3. Review your Social Security Administration account: Create or log into your Social Security account to check your earnings history and benefit statements. Look for employment or earnings you don’t recognize, as criminals often use stolen SSNs for work authorization. Any discrepancies could indicate someone is using your SSN for employment fraud.
4. Examine IRS documents and consider an IP PIN: Check your annual Social Security Statement for accuracy and review any IRS letters about duplicate tax filings or suspicious activity. If you suspect SSN details leaked, request an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) from the IRS or tax transcripts through the IRS Get Transcript portal.
5. Monitor medical statements and insurance claims: Review your health insurance statements, Medicare summaries, and medical bills for services you didn’t receive or providers you’ve never visited. Medical identity theft using your SSN can result in incorrect information in your medical records and unexpected bills. Contact your insurance company immediately if you spot unfamiliar claims or treatments.
6. Check for unemployment and government benefits fraud: Contact your state’s unemployment office to verify that no claims were filed in your name. Review any government benefit accounts you have as well for suspicious activity.
7. Conduct a comprehensive identity audit: Search your name combined with personal details online to see if your information appears on data broker sites. Set up ongoing dark web monitoring through reputable services to alert you if your SSN appears in future breaches.

Your first steps to stop the fraudulent activity

If you discover that someone has been using your SSN, take these steps immediately:

1. Freeze your credit: Contact all three major credit bureaus to place a free credit freeze on your accounts. This prevents anyone from opening new credit accounts in your name. Keep your PIN numbers safe as you’ll need them to lift the freeze when applying for credit temporarily.
2. File an identity theft report: Report the SSN theft to the Federal Trade Commission. The FTC’s step-by-step, personalized guidance will help you navigate the recovery process and provide documentation for creditors and other institutions.
3. Contact affected financial institutions: Notify your bank, credit card companies, and other financial institutions where you have accounts. Request new account numbers, cards, and fraud alerts to monitor for suspicious activity.
4. Secure your Social Security Administration account: Create or secure your my Social Security account to prevent fraudsters from creating one in your name. Enable two-factor authentication and review your earnings record for any unauthorized employment. If someone is already using your SSN for work, contact the SSA immediately to report the misuse.
5. Document everything: Keep detailed records of all communications, including dates, names of representatives, reference numbers, and actions taken. Create a file with copies of all reports, correspondence, and documentation. This paper trail will be invaluable if you need to dispute fraudulent accounts or prove your case to creditors and law enforcement.
6. Stay vigilant and follow up: Monitor your credit reports, bank statements, and government benefits regularly for at least the next 12 months. The effects of SSN theft can surface months later, so ongoing monitoring is crucial for your long-term financial security.

Long-term, preventive measures to limit your exposure

Since your SSN can’t be easily changed and is still treated like a universal ID, the safest approach is to put up barriers that make it harder for criminals to use, even if they get it. Aside from the steps listed above, here are additional measures you can follow to protect your SSN from the start:

• Minimize sharing your SSN: Only provide your SSN when absolutely required by law or for essential services such as banking, employment, or medical care.
• Ask for alternatives: Many organizations request your Social Security number out of habit. Ask if you can use an alternative identifier, such as a driver’s license number.
• Be cautious with Social Security number requests over the phone or email: Legitimate organizations rarely ask for your full SSN via phone or email. When in doubt, hang up and call the organization directly using a number from their official website to verify the request.
• Use strong, unique passwords: Since details leaked in data breaches can help criminals predict Social Security numbers and crack passwords, it is best to protect all your accounts with complex, unique credentials using a password manager.
• Enable two-factor authentication: Add an extra layer of security to your Social Security Administration, IRS, banking, and credit accounts by setting up two-factor or multi-factor authentication, which blocks 99% of automated attacks.
• Keep your devices and software updated: Install security updates promptly on all devices. Malware often targets personal information, including Social Security numbers, so staying current with patches protects your data from the latest threats.
• Shred physical documents: Physical theft remains a common way criminals obtain Social Security numbers. So before throwing away tax returns, medical records, or financial statements, put them through a cross-cut shredder.
• Monitor your credit reports and account statements: Check for unauthorized accounts or inquiries that could indicate SSN misuse. Request free credit reports and review bank and credit card statements monthly.
• Consider additional protections: Consider enrolling in credit monitoring services and identity theft protection. These services can alert you to other types of SSN identity theft, such as employment fraud or medical identity theft.

FAQs about Social Security Numbers

When can organizations legally request my SSN?

Federal law requires SSN disclosure in specific situations. Organizations can legally require your SSN when no reasonable alternative exists and when they have a specific legal requirement or legitimate business need, such as:

• Tax reporting is involved: Employers, financial institutions, and others who must file tax documents with the IRS
• Credit checks are necessary: Lenders, landlords, and others performing background or credit verification
• Government benefits: Social Security, Medicare, unemployment, and other federal or state programs
• For legal compliance: Situations where federal or state law specifically mandates SSN collection

What notices are organizations required to present when requesting my Social Security number?

When an organization requests your SSN, they must provide what’s called a disclosure statement, as clarified under the updated Privacy Act of the Department of Justice’s Office of Privacy and Civil Liberties. Legitimate organizations requesting your SSN must tell you:

• Whether providing your SSN is mandatory or voluntary
• What legal authority permits them to request it
• How they plan to use your SSN
• What happens if you refuse to provide it

If an organization can’t provide clear answers to these questions, that’s a red flag. The FTC’s consumer guidance emphasizes that you have the right to understand why your SSN is needed before you provide it.

When can I decline to provide my SSN?

You can typically decline when it’s not a necessity, alternative identification exists, it seems excessive, and there is no clear legal requirement. Common situations where you can often say no include gym memberships, retail purchases, job applications that don’t require credit checks, and various service sign-ups.

What are safer alternatives to SSN disclosure?

When you need to verify your identity but want to minimize SSN exposure, several alternatives can work depending on the situation:

• Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers
• Driver’s license numbers
• Partial SSN disclosure
• Alternative methods such as bank statements, utility bills, or other documents

Final thoughts

While it’s concerning that Social Security numbers can be predicted or leaked through data breaches, you’re not powerless against SSN identity theft. The practical steps we’ve outlined put you firmly in control of your personal information security—from placing credit freezes and setting up IRS IP PINs to securing your Social Security Administration account with strong authentication. Take action today by implementing these protective measures to reduce your risk significantly.

For added security, consider a McAfee Identity Protection plan to experience proactive identity surveillance, lost wallet protection, and alerts when suspicious activity is detected on your financial accounts.

The post Smart Ways to Keep Your Social Security Number from Being Cracked appeared first on McAfee Blog.

With the rise in digital banking and online transactions, the number of automated teller machines (ATMs) worldwide declined to 2.95 million in 2025, according to the finance and crypto resource site CoinLaw. Despite this decline, ATM fraud continues to victimize innocent consumers, with global losses estimated at $2.4 billion in 2025.

Among the ATM-related security issues, card skimming accounted for almost 60% of all reported global ATM fraud cases in 2025, according to CoinLaw. Other ATM-related security threats include malware (21%) and cryptocurrency ATM scams. AI-driven ATM fraud, although still in its infancy (0.11% in 2025), is gaining traction as cybercriminals develop new phishing techniques.

In this guide, we will explore some of the security threats associated with ATMs, with a focus on skimming, and provide tips on protecting your data and money in your bank account.

What is ATM skimming?

ATM skimming is a form of payment card fraud where criminals secretly install illegal devices on card readers, fuel pumps, or point-of-sale terminals, which then steal your debit or credit card information. These devices, called skimmers, capture the magnetic stripe data from your card while hidden cameras or fake PIN pads record your personal identification number. With both pieces of information, criminals can create counterfeit cards or make unauthorized online purchases using your account.

Skimming devices have become increasingly sophisticated and harder to detect. Traditional overlay skimmers sit on top of legitimate card readers, but newer “shimmer” devices are inserted more deeply into the card slot, making them virtually invisible to casual inspection. These devices can store data from hundreds of cards before criminals retrieve them, often using Bluetooth technology to wirelessly download stolen information without physically accessing the skimmer.

ATMs remain the most common target for skimming attacks, but criminals also target gas station fuel pumps, which often have weaker security systems and less frequent maintenance checks. Point-of-sale terminals at retail locations, restaurants, and other businesses also present opportunities for skimming, particularly when employees are involved in the scheme.

The threat persists for several interconnected reasons. Payment card fraud is quite a profitable business and can be scaled across states or countries. Technology gaps also contribute to the problem, as many ATMs and payment terminals continue to use legacy magnetic stripe technology despite the introduction of more secure EMV chips in newer cards. Criminals also exploit legacy systems, especially if the ATM does not receive regular security updates.

Additionally, decommissioned ATMs can be freely gathered from junkyards or casually bought from online marketplaces, giving criminals the chance to collect personal data stored in the computer and study the discarded machine’s security features to improve their skimming techniques.

In some cases, used ATMs are purchased on eBay or Craigslist and then installed in areas with ample foot traffic. These machines, which can be powered by car batteries or simply plugged into a nearby outlet, are programmed to read and copy credit card data.

Consequences of skimming

When your card information is compromised through skimming, the financial and personal consequences can be significant. Criminals may drain your account through ATM withdrawals or fraudulent purchases, potentially leaving you unable to access your own money. Since debit card transactions often clear immediately, unauthorized withdrawals can cause overdraft fees and bounced check charges before you even realize your account has been compromised.

Beyond the financial losses, ATM skimming can lead to identity theft, where the personal information captured becomes part of larger criminal databases used in other fraud schemes.

Consequently, your credit score and banking relationships may also suffer if fraudulent accounts are opened in your name or if you’re unable to resolve unauthorized charges quickly. While the law gives you limited liability for fraudulent transactions, the process of restoring your accounts can be time-consuming and stressful.

Types of ATM skimming devices and how to spot them

Criminals use a range of devices—some obvious, others nearly invisible—to steal card data and PINs right at the machine. Knowing the main types of skimmers, what they look like, and where they’re usually placed can help you recognize them and avoid a compromised ATM.

Overlay card readers

The most common type of skimming device, overlay card readers are fake attachments that criminals place directly over the legitimate card slot of an ATM. As you insert your card, it passes through the skimmer first, which captures the magnetic stripe data from your card before it reaches the actual card reader.

Deep-insert or shimmer devices

An evolution of skimming technology, shimmer devices are extremely thin circuit boards that criminals insert deep into the card slot, making them nearly impossible to detect through visual inspection alone. When you insert your card, you might notice increased resistance, unusual vibrations, or your card feeling momentarily stuck.

Pinhole cameras

Criminals use tiny cameras to capture your PIN as you enter it on the keypad. They are so small they can be hidden in seemingly innocent locations around the ATM. Look for a small camera attached to the top of the screen, hidden in a brochure holder, or even concealed in a fake security sign.

Fake PIN pads

These devices are placed over the legitimate ATM keypad to capture your PIN as you enter it. The keypad may feel spongier than usual, have a different texture, or seem thicker than normal. You might notice the numbers are printed differently, the buttons don’t press down as far as expected, or there’s a slight color difference between the keypad and the rest of the ATM. If the keypad feels loose, raised, or different from other ATMs you’ve used, don’t enter your PIN.

Bluetooth-enabled skimmers

Considered an advanced skimming technique, wireless Bluetooth-enabled skimmers can wirelessly transmit your stolen card and PIN data to criminals, eliminating the need for them to return to retrieve the device. You could detect them by checking your phone’s Bluetooth settings for unusual device names appearing in the area, though many criminals use generic names to avoid detection. If you notice people loitering near ATMs with mobile devices, especially if they seem to be monitoring ATM users, this could indicate that a Bluetooth skimming operation is in progress.

Combination attacks

Criminals often combine multiple types of skimming devices to maximize their data capture. A typical combination attack might involve an overlay card reader paired with a pinhole camera, or a shimmer device combined with a fake PIN pad. This is why security experts recommend following all protective measures when you use an ATM.

Emerging technologies

Recent advances in skimming technologies include devices that can be inserted through existing openings in ATMs without requiring external attachments, as well as skimmers that use near-field communication (NFC) technology to capture contactless payment information.

Protective steps to take before inserting your ATM card

Choose bank-operated ATMs in well-lit areas

Your safest bet is to use ATMs inside bank branches or those clearly operated by major financial institutions. These locations have better security measures, such as surveillance cameras and regular checks that detect tampering. At outdoor ATMs, select machines in well-lit, high-traffic areas where criminal activity is less likely to occur unnoticed. Avoid ATMs in dimly lit, isolated locations where skimmers can be easily installed.

Examine the card slot

Before inserting your card, closely inspect the card insertion slot. Legitimate ATM card readers should have a uniform appearance with smooth edges and consistent coloring. Look for unusual attachments or devices that seem to have been added on top of the original reader. The card slot should align perfectly with the surrounding ATM fascia. Any gaps, misalignments, or signs that something has been glued or attached should raise immediate red flags. Trust your gut.

Perform the wiggle test

One of the most effective ways to detect fake card readers on ATMs is through tactile inspection. Gently grasp the card reader and try to wiggle it. A legitimate card reader should feel solid and permanently attached. If the reader or the housing feels loose, this is a strong indicator of a skimmer. If anything moves when it shouldn’t, do not use that ATM and report it to the bank immediately.

Inspect the keypad

Examine the keypad carefully for any signs of modification or overlay devices. Overlay keypads often appear slightly thicker or misaligned with the surrounding area. When pressing the buttons, each one should have consistent resistance and feel. Any button that sticks or seems higher than others could indicate tampering. Pay attention to the area around the keypad for adhesive residue or scratches. Legitimate ATM keypads have consistent button spacing, uniform coloring, and should feel solid when pressed.

Check the ATM’s fascia and bezel

The ATM’s outer casing and bezel should have a uniform appearance with no obvious modifications such as loose panels, extra pieces of plastic, or areas with different coloring or texture from the rest of the machine. Check for any unusual wiring, small cameras, or devices that appear out of place. The area around the screen should be examined for any tiny cameras or recording devices that capture PIN entry. All text, logos, and branding should appear professional and consistent with the bank’s standard ATM design.

Survey the surrounding area

Before using any ATM, check the area for any unusual objects that could house cameras or recording equipment, including fake brochure holders, unusual signage, or any items that seem out of place. Check for people loitering nearby who seem to be watching ATM users or vehicles parked unusually close to outdoor ATMs with passengers or drivers who appear to be monitoring ATM activity.

Scan for Bluetooth devices

Before using an ATM, check your smartphone’s Bluetooth settings to scan for nearby devices with suspicious names, such as those with generic or random characters, or names that don’t correspond to legitimate businesses in the area. An unusual concentration of unknown devices near an ATM could be a warning sign. This technique works best in areas where there are typically few Bluetooth devices, such as standalone ATMs.

ATM safety tips

Enable and use contactless withdrawal

Enable contactless withdrawals through your bank’s mobile app to authenticate and authorize QR code-based transactions and reduce your need to use an ATM. This technology uses tap-to-pay functionality or near-field communication (NFC) features, providing the same convenient access to your funds. Contact your bank to learn about contactless ATM options and how to activate these features on your accounts.

Verify ATM authenticity through official channels

Bank websites or mobile apps usually show the locations of their legitimate ATMs. If you’re unsure about an ATM’s authenticity, check these official resources to confirm the machine is listed as a legitimate location. This step can help you avoid both skimming devices and other fraudulent ATM operations entirely. Be particularly cautious of ATMs in unusual areas. When traveling, stick to ATMs inside recognizable financial institutions.

Shield your PIN entry

Even when ATMs appear legitimate, always protect your PIN entry from potential observation. Use your free hand, body, or a purse to cover the keypad while entering your PIN to guard against both hidden cameras and shoulder-surfing by nearby criminals. Consider changing your PIN regularly and never write it down. If you suspect your PIN may have been compromised, change it immediately through secure channels.

Monitor your account activity vigilantly

Implement robust account monitoring to detect and address any skimming-related fraud as quickly as possible. Set up real-time account alerts through your bank’s mobile app to receive immediate notifications of all transactions. Review your account statements regularly and report any unauthorized activity immediately. Consider setting daily withdrawal limits to match your usage patterns to minimize losses if your card information is compromised.

Report suspicious ATMs immediately

If you notice signs of tampering or suspicious activity at an ATM, report it immediately to the bank to protect other customers from becoming victims and to help law enforcement track down the perpetrators. Contact the bank’s customer service line using the phone number on the back of your card, rather than the numbers displayed on the potentially compromised ATM. Document the ATM’s location, including the address and any identifying numbers or codes visible on the machine.

Stay informed about ATM fraud trends

Stay informed about the latest ATM skimming techniques and prevention strategies through reputable sources. Consumer alerts provide updated guidance on protecting yourself from these crimes, as do major credit card networks such as Visa and Mastercard. Following your bank’s security updates and fraud alerts helps you stay aware of new threats in your area and emerging criminal techniques to watch for during ATM transactions.

Avoid assistance from strangers

Be highly cautious of anyone offering to help you with ATM troubles, even if they appear well-intentioned, especially if they suggest using their phone to call the bank or offer to show you how to complete your transaction. If you encounter problems with an ATM, cancel your transaction, retrieve your card, and contact your bank directly.

Use ATMs during daylight or banking business hours

Criminals usually install skimming devices when fewer people are around to witness their actions. Daytime transactions in high-traffic areas increase the likelihood of suspicious behavior being noticed and reported. If you must use an ATM at night, choose one in a well-lit area with good visibility, preferably near businesses that are still open and have staff and customers present. Consider using indoor ATMs exclusively.

Keep your ATM receipts secure

Always take your ATM receipts and store them securely until you have verified the transaction on your statement. Don’t leave them at the machine or throw them away in nearby trash cans where criminals might retrieve them to gather information about your account; even partial account numbers and transaction details could be useful to identity thieves. You can shred the receipts once you’ve confirmed the transactions.

Understand your rights and protections

Familiarize yourself with your bank’s policies regarding ATM fraud and your rights under federal law. The Electronic Fund Transfer Act provides specific protections for consumers who experience unauthorized ATM transactions. These protections offer you up to 60 days to report unauthorized transactions to limit your liability, but reporting within two business days provides the strongest protection.

Plan your cash needs in advance

Reduce your ATM usage by planning your cash needs and making larger, less frequent withdrawals to reduce your overall exposure to potential skimming attempts. Consider getting cash back during purchases at grocery stores, pharmacies, and trusted retailers, rather than using unfamiliar ATMs, especially when traveling or in unfamiliar areas.

Be extra vigilant during the holiday season

ATM skimming attempts surge during peak shopping and travel periods when foot traffic increases at malls, airports, hotel lobbies, and other commercial or tourist locations. Increased cash withdrawals, crowded shopping areas, and travelers using unfamiliar ATMs create ideal conditions for skimming operations. In addition, criminals know that holiday shoppers are often distracted, rushed, and less vigilant about using ATMs. That’s why it’s important for you to be extra cautious. If you must use an ATM, take a breath and slow down to thoroughly inspect the machine and your surroundings before inserting your card.

Immediate steps to take if your card was skimmed

The guidance below walks you through exactly what to do in the moment and right after, so you can limit risk to yourself and prevent others from becoming victims, too.

1. Contact your bank immediately. Call the number on the back of your card or use your bank’s mobile app to report unauthorized transactions. Most banks have 24/7 fraud hotlines that can freeze your account within minutes to prevent further unauthorized use.
2. Dispute unauthorized charges promptly. Your liability protections depend on how quickly you report fraud. For credit cards, federal law limits your liability to $50 for unauthorized charges. For debit cards, report any unauthorized transactions within two business days to limit liability to $50, or within 60 days to cap liability at $500. After 60 days, you could be responsible for all unauthorized transactions.
3. Request a replacement card. Your bank will cancel your compromised card and issue a new one with different numbers. Most banks can expedite delivery within 1-2 business days, though some may charge a fee for rush delivery. Ask about temporary digital cards for immediate online use while waiting for your physical card.
4. Inform your ID Theft protection provider. If you have an identity theft protection subscription, inform your service to activate proactive identity surveillance, monitor your credit and personal information, and seek support from fraud resolution agents who can work through the process of resolving the identity theft issues.
5. Place a fraud alert on your credit reports. Contact one of the three major credit bureaus—Experian, Equifax, or TransUnion—to place a free fraud alert. This alert requires creditors to verify your identity before opening new accounts and automatically applies to all three bureaus for one year.
6. Consider a credit freeze for enhanced protection. A credit freeze prevents new creditors from accessing your credit report and identity thieves from opening accounts in your name. You can freeze and unfreeze your credit for free with all three bureaus online, by phone, or by mail.
7. Monitor your accounts closely. Review all bank and credit card statements for the next few months. Set up account alerts for transactions over a certain amount, and consider using your bank’s mobile app to check account activity daily during this period.
8. File additional reports if identity theft occurs. If criminals used your card information for identity theft beyond just card fraud, file a report with the Federal Trade Commission and consider filing a police report. The FTC provides a personalized recovery plan and pre-filled forms for creditors.
9. Update automatic payments. Replace your old card information with your new card details for any automatic payments, subscriptions, or saved payment methods with online retailers to avoid service interruptions.
10. Keep detailed records. Document all communications with your bank, including dates, times, representative names, and reference numbers. Save copies of dispute forms and any correspondence related to the fraud investigation.

Final thoughts

Protecting yourself from ATM skimming requires ongoing attention, but you’re now equipped with the knowledge to use ATMs confidently and securely—perform a visual inspection, do the wiggle test, review the keypad, and be aware of your surroundings. Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong or looks suspicious about an ATM, consider finding an alternative location. Your intuition is a valuable tool in recognizing potentially compromised machines.

Share these ATM safety practices with your family members and friends to strengthen their security as well. Take a moment to revisit your bank’s fraud protection guidelines and ensure you understand their notification procedures for suspicious activity. Your financial institution can partner with you in preventing fraud, so don’t hesitate to reach out with questions about their latest security features.

The post Essential Tips to Avoid ATM Skimming appeared first on McAfee Blog.

I don’t know about you, but I love Christmas in Australia, long summer days, the sound of cicadas at night, seafood on Christmas day, or traditional ham with roasted veggies. I just love the festive season. And I must confess that I love Christmas shopping. Yep, I’m one of those people! Once I’ve put some time and thought into what gift I’d like to give to my family members, I go online and surf for the perfect bargain, or simply to find out which retailers have the gifts I want.

But in my haste to type in an address I do make typos, and I’ve just read a report that tells me one little typo like missing the “o” in “.com” could land me somewhere I don’t want to be! This seemingly innocent misspelling in domain names is actually a criminal scheme to direct you to scam websites.

In the past, McAfee released a report that revealed .vn as the riskiest country code domain name. In 2024, the winner was .su, which stands for the former Soviet Union. Although the country is defunct, scammers continue to use this domain for phishing attacks that spread viruses and other nasties designed to cause havoc on your home computer. Certainly not what you need this Christmas. Australia’s domain “.au” is relatively safe in comparison to the rest of the web, but it certainly doesn’t mean we’re safe while surfing the wild, wild web.

Another 2024 report showed that .com, aside from being the most popular top-level domain, is now also the most abused one used in typosquatting.

As you go online to shop for holiday presents, make your banking payments, or book your holiday travel, you’ll need to be more alert about typing those domain names on the address bars to avoid being a victim of typosquatting. Here’s a more detailed look at this scam, its dangers, and what you do if you accidentally end up on a dangerous site.

What is typosquatting?

Typosquatting is a cybercriminal tactic where attackers register domain names that closely resemble legitimate websites, specifically targeting common typing mistakes you might make when entering URLs. Google is the top impersonated brand, being misspelled online as goggle, closely followed by Microsoft as microsfot, and Amazon as amaz0n.

Malicious actors take advantage of the small slip-ups we all make, such as missing a letter, swapping characters, or hitting the wrong key, to redirect you to fake websites that steal your usernames, passwords, and personal information. Others may automatically download malware onto your device.

According to research in 2024, internet services are the most targeted names in typosquatting (29.2%), followed by professional services (26.09%) and online shopping websites (22.3%). The consequences can include identity theft, financial fraud, compromised accounts, and infected devices that put your entire digital life at risk.

Factors that enable typosquatting

Typosquatting thrives because it sits at the intersection of human habits and internet mechanics. Cybercriminals are banking on these small human blunders to direct you to their malicious look-alike domains, using visual tricks such as similar-looking characters or misleading subdomains. Throw in search ads and SEO that push these sites in front of us even without a typo, and you get a perfect storm for typosquatting. Once you understand the factors that allow typosquatting to flourish, you can avoid falling victim to it.

• Human error. The most common cause is simply how we type and interact with devices. We could be typing hurriedly, multitasking, or distracted, and using small mobile screens where errors can be easily made. Miss a letter, swap characters, or rely on predictive or autocorrect spelling, and you could end up on a compromised website.
• Visual deception. Cybercriminals create domains that look almost identical to legitimate ones using visual tricks such as replacing characters in a domain name. They also use lookalike subdomains that appear official, such as “secure-login.amazon-customer.com,” which isn’t Amazon at all.
• Domain system vulnerabilities. The global domain name system’s complexity creates multiple avenues for deception. Alternative top-level domains (TLDs) like .cm, .co, or .net can be registered to capture traffic meant for .com sites, creating more opportunities for lookalike domains that can bypass traditional security filters.
• Search result manipulation. Through search engine optimization tactics and paid advertisements, cybercriminals can position fraudulent sites prominently, increasing the likelihood you’ll click on them even though you haven’t made a typing error.

Common typosquatting tactics

Typosquatters use a playbook of tweaks built around the typing mistakes people make. The goal is always the same: catch you in a moment of hurry and usher you to a fake page before you notice anything’s off. Being aware of these common typosquatting techniques will teach you to recognize when you might be in danger of visiting a fake website.

• Keyboard-adjacent typos: These tactics exploit common typing mistakes when your fingers mistakenly hit nearby keys, such as typing “gnail.com” instead of “gmail.com”. Cybercriminals register these predictable mistyped domains to capture your traffic.
• Missing or extra letters: Attackers register domains with one letter removed or added to popular sites. You might type “amazo.com” or “amazoon.com” in your mad rush to shop online, landing on a fake site.
• Swapped characters: This involves switching the order of letters in familiar domains. Instead of “paypal.com,” you could accidentally visit “payapl.com” or “paypla.com.”
• Wrong top-level domains (TLDs): Scammers register the same domain name with different TLDs, which could host malicious content, including phishing pages. You might mean to visit “banking.com” but end up at “banking.net” or “banking.org.”
• Subdomain impersonation: These attacks use legitimate-looking subdomains to fool you. A URL like “secure-update.microsoft-login.com” might look official, but the actual domain is “microsoft-login.com,” not Microsoft’s real site.
• Homoglyph attacks: These use visually similar characters from different writing systems or symbol sets. In certain fonts or symbols, the letters “rn” together can look like “m,” so “arnazon.com” might appear as “amazon.com.” International characters and symbols make these attacks particularly deceptive.
• Brand + keyword combinations: Attackers combine popular brand names with common keywords to create convincing fake domains. Sites like “apple-support.com,” “google-security.com,” or “microsoft-updates.com” aren’t official company sites but can appear legitimate enough to trick you into entering personal information.

The dangers of typosquatting

Typosquatting puts you at risk in several ways, one of which is that cybercriminals can steal your personal information through convincing phishing pages that look identical to legitimate sites. You might unknowingly enter your login credentials, credit card details, or other sensitive data directly into their hands.

Malware downloads represent another significant threat. Some fraudulent sites automatically install harmful software onto your device, potentially giving attackers remote access to your computer or mobile device. Payment fraud is particularly concerning when typosquatting targets banking or shopping websites, as you could complete transactions that go straight to scammers instead of legitimate businesses.

Your privacy could also suffer when malicious sites steal cookies and session data, allowing criminals to impersonate you on legitimate websites. They can access your accounts, view your browsing history, and monitor your online activities without your knowledge.

Immediate action plan if you end up on a typosquatted site

1. Stop entering any information immediately. The moment you realize you’ve landed on a suspicious site, don’t move a finger to enter passwords, personal details, or payment information. Typosquatted sites are specifically built to capture this data, so your first defense is simply stopping any interaction with the page.
2. Close the browser tab or window right away. Don’t click any links, buttons, or ads on the suspicious site. Quickly close the tab or window to prevent any potential malware downloads or further data collection. If your browser warns you about leaving the page, ignore the warning and close it anyway.
3. Clear your browser data for that specific site. Go to your browser’s settings and clear the cookies, cache, and browsing data related to the suspicious domain you just visited. Google recommends this step to remove any tracking elements or malicious cookies that may have been installed during your brief visit.
4. Run a comprehensive security scan on your device. Use your antivirus software to perform a full system scan immediately to detect any malware that might have been downloaded while you visited the typosquatted site. Consider downloading a reputable solution like McAfee+ for complete protection.
5. Check your recent account activity on major services. Log into your banking, email, and social media accounts to review recent activity, login attempts, unauthorized access, and suspicious changes. The Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency recommends monitoring account activity after potential security incidents.
6. Change passwords and enable multi-factor authentication. If you entered any credentials on the suspicious site, change those passwords immediately across all your accounts and enable two-factor authentication where possible to provide extra protection.
7. Report the suspicious domain. To protect others, report the fake website to your browser provider (Chrome, Firefox, Safari) and to the Anti-Phishing Working Group.

Protect yourself against typosquatting

So here are my tips on how to stay safe while surfing:

Tip #1: Apply sunscreen

Well, the number one tip goes without saying, Slip, Slop, and Slap when you’re lapping up the glorious Aussie sun, and don’t forget to reapply!

Tip #2: Update your security software

I only have one word for you: Antivirus!

Now I’ve got to admit, since starting out on this quest as Cybermum, I’ve learnt a few things, and I think one of the most important lessons has been that you can never have too much protection when it comes to your home computer. I liken having up-to-date security software to reapplying your sunscreen. Just because you loaded some security software a couple of years ago, doesn’t mean you’re safe now! You’re bound to get burnt unless you reapply, so for your computer, this means update! Check out McAfee Total Protection.

Tip #3: Double-check before hitting enter

If you can end up in Cameroon surrounded by infected sites simply by missing an “o,” it’s certainly worthwhile checking your spelling before hitting the enter key!

I know I find it difficult to determine when a site is safe or not. I certainly know that my kids wouldn’t have even given it a second thought until I loaded McAfee’s WebAdvisor on our home computer. It’s pretty cool and it’s been really easy for my kids to understand as it provides a traffic light system of red, yellow and green icons to indicate a website’s risk level, so I know when my kids are surfing the net this summer they’ve got their own little traffic warden steering them away from sites that could have seen them surfing in Cameroon instead of Australia!

Aside from these key tips and the immediate steps listed above, I’ve rounded up a few other reminders to make sure you end up on a legitimate website and keep your device and information safe:

• Bookmark your trusted websites. Create bookmarks for your frequently used banking, shopping, and social media sites. This way, you can click directly on the bookmark instead of typing the URL and risking an error that could take you to a malicious site.
• Type URLs directly in your browser’s address bar. When accessing sensitive accounts such as online banking or shopping, always type the website address directly into your browser’s address bar rather than using search engine results, which might include malicious lookalike sites that aim to capture your information.
• Double-check domain names and extensions carefully. Before entering any personal information, take a moment to verify the exact spelling of the website address and its domain extension (.com, .org, .gov). Look for subtle changes such as extra letters, hyphens, or different extensions that signal a fake site.
• Enable your browser’s built-in security features. Turn on safe browsing warnings in Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge to help detect and warn you about potentially dangerous websites.
• Consider secure DNS settings. Consider switching to secure DNS services such as Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) or Google DNS (8.8.8.8), and enable HTTPS-only mode in your browser to ensure encrypted connections to websites.
• Never click links in unexpected emails or text messages. In 2024, phishing continued to be the top method that scammers used to contact people and direct them to typosquatted domains. So instead of clicking links, type the website address directly or use your bookmarks.
• Trust your instincts. If a website looks different than usual, has unusual pop-ups, asks for unexpected information, or just feels strange, close your browser tab or window immediately. Trusting your instincts could be one of your best defenses against online threats.

Final thoughts

Typosquatting may seem like a small concern, but knowing its risks of typos can make a big difference in your online safety. Simple typing mistakes in domains can redirect you to malicious sites designed to steal your information or infect your devices.

To avoid becoming a victim of typosquatting, the key is for you to develop mindful habits such as bookmarking trusted sites and double-checking URLs before hitting the enter key on your keyboard, or before typing sensitive information or downloading files. Always look for secure connection indicators such as the padlock icon to confirm you’re on the correct website.

In addition, using reliable tools such as McAfee WebAdvisor and McAfee Total Protection gives you the assurance of safety while you browse, bank, and shop online. McAfee security solutions work quietly in the background, alerting you to suspicious sites and keeping you on the safe path. Share this knowledge with your family and friends, because when we’re all aware of these simple tricks that criminals use, we can all enjoy the internet more safely together.

Happy Christmas shopping and safe surfing.

The post Oh what a difference an “o” can make! appeared first on McAfee Blog.

Mac users often say, “I don’t have to worry about viruses. I have a Mac!” But that sense of safety is outdated. Macs face real threats today, including scareware and fake antivirus pop‑ups designed specifically for macOS. One of the most infamous examples is the Mac Defender family, which appeared around 2011 under names like “Mac Defender,” “Mac Security,” and “Mac Protector,” luring users with fake security alerts and then installing malicious software.

These scams have long targeted Windows PCs and later expanded to Macs, using similar tactics: bogus scan results, alarming pop-ups, and fake security sites that push users to download “protection” software or pay to remove nonexistent threats. Once installed, these programs can bombard you with persistent warnings, redirect you to unwanted or explicit sites, and may even try to capture your credit card details or other sensitive information under the guise of an urgent upgrade.

In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at how you become a target for these fake antivirus pop‑up ads, how to remove them from your Mac, and practical steps you can take to block them going forward.

What is fake antivirus software?

Fake antivirus software is malicious software that tricks you into believing your Mac is infected with viruses or security threats when, in fact, it isn’t. These deceptive programs, also known as rogue antivirus or scareware, masquerade as legitimate security tools to manipulate you into taking actions that benefit cybercriminals.

On your Mac, fake antivirus pop-up ads typically appear as urgent browser warnings or system alerts claiming to have detected multiple threats on your computer. These fraudulent notifications often use official-looking logos, technical language, and alarming messages like “Your Mac is infected with 5 viruses” or “Immediate action required” to create a sense of urgency and panic.

These scams manipulate you by:

• Requesting payment: They’ll prompt you to purchase their “premium” software to remove the fake threats, often charging $50-200 for worthless programs.
• Providing fake phone numbers: The pop-up ads will display fake support numbers you can call for “immediate technical assistance.”
• Requesting personal information: Once you call the number, the scammer on the other end of the line will request your credit card details, personal information, or remote access to your computer.
• Encouraging malicious downloads: The ads will trick you into downloading actual malware disguised as security software.

Tactics scammers use to infect your device with fake antivirus pop-up ads

Fake antivirus popups are almost always the result of a sneaky delivery method designed to catch you off guard. Scammers rely on ads, compromised websites, misleading downloads, and social engineering tricks to get their scareware onto your Mac without you realizing what’s happening. Let’s take a look at the common ways these scams spread so you can avoid them.

• Deceptive online advertisements: Fake antivirus software often appears through misleading ads that claim your Mac is infected or at risk. These ads can appear on legitimate websites and use urgent language, such as “Your Mac has 3 viruses!” to create a sense of panic.
• Malvertising campaigns: Cybercriminals purchase legitimate advertising space and inject malicious code that automatically redirects you to fake antivirus download pages. This can happen even on reputable websites you trust.
• Drive-by downloads: Simply visiting a compromised website can trigger automatic downloads of fake antivirus software without your knowledge. Your Mac may store these files in your Downloads folder, where they wait for you to accidentally open them.
• Bundled software installers: Fake antivirus programs often hide in free applications from unofficial sources. During installation, you might unknowingly agree to install additional “security” software that’s actually malicious.
• Pirated applications and media: Illegal downloads of software, movies, or music frequently contain fake antivirus programs as hidden payloads. These files install malware alongside the content you wanted.
• Typosquatted domains: Scammers register URLs that are slightly altered or are misspellings of legitimate websites, such as Apple-support.com. These typosquatted links are sent via phishing emails that claim to have detected a virus on your Mac. If you click on the fake link, you could be infected with malware that displays alarming security warnings and promotes fake antivirus downloads.
• Fake technical support pages: Scammers create convincing replicas of Apple Support or legitimate security company websites that promote fake antivirus solutions. These pages often include official-looking logos and professional language to appear trustworthy.
• Browser notification abuse: Some websites request permission to send you notifications, then later spam you with fake virus alerts. Clicking on these notifications could download fake antivirus software that mimics macOS system alerts.
• Malicious configuration profiles: Fake antivirus installers may request permission to download configuration profiles onto your device, granting them deep access to your Mac’s settings and network traffic. Once installed, these profiles will redirect your browser traffic through malicious servers and display fake security warnings.

Elements of a fake virus alert

Fake virus alerts use a mix of visual tricks and psychological pressure to push you into clicking, calling, or paying before you have time to think. This section breaks down the common elements scammers use in these alerts so you can recognize a fake warning instantly and ignore it.

• Blaring alarm and full-screen browser takeover: If your browser suddenly goes full-screen with flashing red warnings and audio alarms, you’re looking at a scam designed to panic you into taking immediate action. Real Mac security notifications never lock your entire screen or play loud, startling sounds. Legitimate macOS alerts appear as small, quiet dialogs in the upper-right corner of your screen.
• Urgent countdown timers: The high-pressure countdown clocks claiming your Mac will be “permanently damaged” in minutes are artificial psychological tactics that scammers use to pressure and prevent you from thinking clearly. Apple’s real security notifications give you time to review and respond thoughtfully
• Spelling and grammar mistakes: Fake alerts often contain telltale errors such as “Your computer has been infected” or “Immediate action required.” Apple invests heavily in polished, professional communications to produce macOS security dialogs with error-free language that reflects the company’s attention to detail.
• Requests for gift cards or cryptocurrency payments: Any request for unconventional payment methods is an immediate indicator of a scam. Apple will never ask you to purchase iTunes gift cards, Amazon cards, or Bitcoin to “clean” your Mac. Authentic Apple security software uses traditional payment methods through official app stores or verified websites.
• Suspicious phone numbers for “tech support”: Scammers use phone numbers that connect you directly with fraudsters who will remotely access your Mac or extract personal information. Legitimate macOS alerts don’t include phone numbers to call for immediate help. Apple provides support through official channels, which are clearly marked on their website.
• Generic or mismatched company logos: Fake alerts often use distorted Apple logos, outdated designs, or generic “security shield” graphics instead of authentic branding. Real macOS notifications maintain consistent visual elements that match your system’s appearance and Apple’s official style guidelines.
• Misleading URLs: Scam pages often use suspicious addresses such as “apple-security-center.net” or “mac-virus-removal.com.” Authentic security alerts from macOS appear in System Settings or from apps you’ve knowingly installed from the official Apple App Store.
• Persistent pop-up ads that won’t close: Fake virus warnings often spawn multiple windows, reappear after being closed, or make it difficult to exit. Authentic macOS security features respect your control and don’t bombard you with alerts.
• Warnings that bypass System Settings: Fake alerts typically appear only as web pages or unauthorized pop-ups that don’t connect to your actual system security settings. Genuine Mac security notifications integrate with your system properly, appearing through official macOS notification systems or System Settings under Privacy & Security.
• Claims “hundreds of viruses found” without scanning: Fake alerts instantly claim to have found dozens or hundreds of viruses without performing a legitimate scan. Real security scans, however, take time to complete and provide specific, verifiable results about actual threats.

Examples of fake antivirus software and pop-ups

• Mac “Defender” variants: This notorious family of fake antivirus programs includes variants such as Mac Security, Mac Protector, and Mac Guard, appearing through deceptive search results or malicious websites. They display fake system scans that allegedly found threats on your Mac to trick you into paying $50-$99 for a useless antivirus tool. Once you enter payment information, cybercriminals will access your financial data and may continue charging your card for bogus services.
• Generic “antivirus” popups: These fake alerts have generic names such as Antivirus 10, Mac Antivirus Pro, or Advanced Mac Cleaner. These ads pop up while you browse, often accompanied by loud alarms and urgent countdown timers, claiming your Mac is infected and demanding immediate action. The scam journey involves clicking the alert, downloading malicious software disguised as security tools, and potentially compromising both your system and personal information.

Verify that an antivirus alert is fake

If you’re not sure whether an antivirus warning is real or just scareware, a quick verification is the safest next step. There are steps you can take and settings on your macOS you can check without putting your Mac at further risk.

1. Disconnect from the internet immediately: When you suspect a fake antivirus alert, the first step is to break the connection between your Mac and the internet to stop malicious processes from communicating with remote servers or downloading additional threats.
2. Check the URL and certificate details: If the alert appeared in your web browser, examine the web address carefully. Legitimate security warnings from Apple or trusted vendors will come from official domains, not URLs with misspellings or random characters.
3. Verify the app’s developer signature and source: To verify that the developer signatures are from recognized companies, open Finder, navigate to Applications, and locate the security software. Right-click the application and select “Get Info” to view the developer information. In macOS Ventura, Sonoma, and Sequoia, you can also go to Apple Menu > About This Mac > More Info > System Report > Applications to view information about the software.
4. Review configuration profiles and login items: Navigate to Apple Menu > System Settings or System Preferences > Privacy & Security to find and remove any configuration profiles you didn’t install. Next, check Login Items & Extensions or Users & Groups > Login Items for suspicious applications set to launch automatically.
5. Inspect LaunchAgents and LaunchDaemons folders: Fake antivirus software often installs persistent components in these system folders. Go to Finder > Go to Folder > ~/Library/LaunchAgents, /Library/LaunchAgents, and /Library/LaunchDaemons. Fake antivirus files typically have .plist extensions.
6. Check browser extensions and notification permissions: Fake antivirus alerts often originate from malicious browser extensions or abusive notification permissions. Review your extensions and remove those you didn’t install or revoke permissions that might be generating fake security alerts.
7. Run legitimate security scans from trusted sources: Use reputable security tools downloaded only from the Apple App Store or directly from the websites of legitimate vendors to scan your system. Apple’s built-in XProtect and Malware Removal Tool (MRT) run automatically, but you can also use the system’s First Aid feature in Disk Utility to check for file system issues.

Your action plan when a fake virus warning pops up

The moment a fake virus warning pops up, scammers are hoping you’ll react fast, click a button, call a number, or download their “fix.” However, the safest approach is the opposite: take a moment to think, don’t interact with the alert, close the browser, and clear any files it may have tried to leave behind. Here’s exactly what to do right away to stay safe.

1. Stay calm and don’t interact with the alert: Resist the urge to click anywhere on the fake virus warning pop-up window, including any “X” buttons, “OK” buttons, or phone numbers. These elements are designed to trick you into downloading malware or connecting with scammers. Avoid touching your mouse or trackpad while the alert is displayed.
2. Force-quit your browser immediately. Press Command + Option + Esc to open the Force Quit Applications window, select your browser (Safari, Chrome, Firefox, or Edge), and click “Force Quit.” If the pop-up has taken over your entire screen, try pressing Command+Q to quit the browser directly. This breaks the connection to the malicious website without triggering any hidden downloads.
3. Clear your browser’s site data and disable notifications. When you restart your browser, immediately go to Preferences/Settings and clear your browsing data, cookies, and cache. Then navigate to the Notifications section and remove permissions for suspicious websites to block the fake antivirus from returning.
4. Check and remove any malicious configuration profiles. Go to System Settings > Privacy & Security > Profiles or System Preferences > Profiles, and look for profiles you didn’t install, especially those with generic names or suspicious publishers. Select unknown profiles and click the minus (-) button to remove them.
5. Restart your Mac to clear temporary threats: A simple reboot helps clear any temporary malicious processes that might be running in memory. After restarting, check your desktop and Downloads folder, move unfamiliar files to the Trash, and empty it completely.
6. Update your macOS and browser to the latest versions: Go to System Settings > General > Software Update and install macOS updates. Update your browsers as well to protect against the latest fake antivirus tactics and browser exploits.
7. Run a full security scan with trusted software: Use reputable security software to scan your entire system for lingering threats. Focus on applications that have been specifically designed for Mac and have current threat definitions.
8. Monitor and validate financial statements: If you provided payment information to what you now suspect was fake antivirus software, immediately check your bank and credit card statements for unauthorized charges. Report these fraudulent charges to your financial institutions and place fraud alerts on your accounts over the next few weeks.
9. Report the scam to protect others: Report the fake antivirus website to the Federal Trade Commission and to Google’s Safe Browsing if you encountered it through search results. You can also report it to your browser manufacturer. Your report helps security teams identify and block these threats more quickly, thereby protecting other Mac users from falling victim to the same scam.

Final thoughts

Your Mac experience should be enjoyable and secure. With the right awareness and tools, it absolutely can be, especially when you know what to look for and follow the right practices. By recognizing the warning signs of fake antivirus pop-ups, downloading software only from trusted sources, keeping your macOS and applications updated, and following the prevention tips outlined above, you can avoid falling victim to these fake antivirus scams.

Remember that legitimate security alerts from Apple come through System Preferences and official macOS notifications, not through alarming browser pop-ups demanding immediate payment or phone calls. Use reputable security tools from a trusted vendor, such as McAfee, that provides real-time protection and regular updates about emerging threats.

Share these tips with your family and friends, especially those who might be less tech-savvy and more vulnerable to these deceptive tactics. The more people understand how fake antivirus schemes operate, the safer our entire digital community is.

The post Stop Fake Antivirus Popups on Your Mac appeared first on McAfee Blog.

Is your personal computer (PC) feeling a bit sluggish? Giving it a good, old-fashioned cleaning can improve its performance, and it only takes minutes. If you’ve never cleaned your PC before, you have a few options to speed up the process.

In this guide, we explain why computers slow down over time, set expectations for what a cleaning routine can and can’t do, and share step-by-step instructions to help you clean your PC and restore optimal performance. 

PCs perform more slowly over time

For the most part, PCs don’t slow down on their own. It’s rarely one single problem. It’s how we accumulate apps, files, and services that slow your PC down as it ages. A few examples come to mind:

• You create files: These personal files that you create take up increasing amounts of disk space. When your drive gets crowded, Windows has less room to perform its background tasks, so everything feels slower.
• Temporary files add up: These are created constantly for updates, browsing, and app activity, and they don’t always clean up after themselves.
• You collect unused apps: Old apps consume storage, and some keep running services even when you never open them.
• Windows adds services: When Windows updates, it further accumulates background services and other processes that reduce performance.
• Startup programs multiply: Many apps sneak into your startup list, which makes your computer boot slower and run “busy” right from the start.
• Dust builds up inside the machine: Dust traps heat, and when your PC gets too warm, it automatically slows down to protect itself.

What PC cleaning can and can’t do for performance

Cleaning is definitely worth doing, but you should set realistic expectations for how much your PC’s performance can improve. Similar to decluttering your home, you are not rebuilding your house, but it will feel much easier to live in.

What PC cleaning can accomplish

PC cleaning addresses software-level performance bottlenecks. When you remove temporary files, clear browser caches, and delete unused applications, you’re freeing up valuable disk space and reducing the workload on your system. This directly impacts how quickly your computer can access and process information.

Startup optimization also delivers some of the most noticeable improvements. If your computer takes several minutes to boot because too many programs are launching automatically, trimming your startup list can cut boot times significantly. You’ll also notice improved responsiveness during everyday tasks when fewer background processes compete for system resources.

You will also notice faster web browsing when you clear accumulated browser data, quicker file searches when your system isn’t indexing thousands of temporary files, and smoother multitasking when background services aren’t consuming unnecessary memory. With proper system maintenance, you can restore 15-30% of lost performance on aging computers.

What PC cleaning cannot fix

Hardware limitations represent the biggest constraint on what cleaning can accomplish. If your processor struggles with modern software demands or your RAM is maxed out during normal use, no amount of cleaning will change these hardware realities. Cleaning your PC to make it faster depends largely on whether software bloat or hardware constraints are your primary bottleneck.

Gaming performance, video editing, and other intensive tasks rely heavily on central processing unit (CPU) and graphics processing unit (GPU) capabilities. While a clean system ensures these components aren’t fighting unnecessary background processes, cleaning won’t magically boost frame rates or rendering speeds beyond your hardware’s capabilities.

But first, back up your files

Any cleanup is safer when you know your important stuff is protected. You don’t have to do a complicated backup routine; just make sure the essentials are safe.

• Check your cloud backups: If you use OneDrive, Google Drive, or iCloud, you may already be backed up without realizing it. Give those files a quick review. It only takes two minutes to confirm that your data is backed up in the cloud.
• Consider an external backup: An external drive gives you a second copy of your files in case something goes wrong. It’s especially helpful for photos, work documents, or anything you’d hate to lose.

In newer versions of Windows, go to Settings > Update & Security > Backup to set up File History, or use Settings > Accounts > Sync your settings for cloud backup. This ensures you won’t lose important files.

Step by step: Clean up your computer

Now that you’ve ensured your important files are safe, you can start the cleanup process that makes a noticeable difference in PC performance. You don’t need advanced technical skills, and you don’t need to do everything at once.

Remove temporary files and unused apps

Go to Settings > System > Storage > Temporary files and review the categories. This will take you to a screen that gives you insight into what your drive space looks like and allow you to safely remove many of them with a few clicks, especially cache and old system leftovers. 

In Windows 10/11, go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features, then sort apps by size or installation date to identify large or forgotten programs. Click any app and select “Uninstall” to remove it. 

You can also use the built-in Disk Cleanup tool by typing “Disk Cleanup” in the Start menu search. Select categories such as “Temporary files,” “Recycle Bin,” and “System cache” to review the files and remove any that are not needed. If you’re unsure what a program does, research it online before removing it, as some applications may be essential for your system’s operation. For example, you might want to keep “Windows update log files,” in case you ever need to troubleshoot Windows.

Set Windows Storage Sense for automatic cleanup

Instead of performing a manual cleanup, you can use Windows Storage Sense to keep your system clean. Navigate to Settings > System > Storage > Storage Sense to configure this powerful feature. You can set it to automatically remove temporary files, empty your recycle bin, and clear your Downloads folder of files older than 30 days.

Removing old and unused apps benefits you in two ways. First, it frees up disk space. Second, outdated apps can contain security loopholes that hackers may exploit. Older apps might have gone without an update, which can lead to security loopholes that hackers can exploit. Remove the old app, and you remove the loophole.

Use Disk Cleanup

Disk Cleanup is an older Windows tool, but it’s still reliable. It can clear system files and cached data safely when used carefully. In Disk Cleanup, you can confidently delete Temporary files, Recycle Bin contents, System error memory dump files, and old Windows Update cleanup files. Temporary Internet Files and Downloaded Program Files are also safe to remove, as your browser will recreate what it needs.

To access this tool, search “Disk Cleanup” in the Start menu, and choose your main drive (usually C:) when prompted. Review the temporary file categories before removing them. Just read descriptions, and avoid deleting anything you might need for troubleshooting.

Manage large files effectively

Identify space-consuming files by looking for large video files, old software installers, or duplicate files that you no longer need. Move important large files to external storage or cloud services to free up local space while keeping them accessible.

Clear your browser cache and cookies

This one is a bit of a double-edged sword. Your cache and cookies make many web pages load faster. By storing images, preferences, and other info, cookies speed up load times. However, the data that cookies store can get bloated over time. If the disk space they use looks a little high to you, clean them out. You can do this in Windows by typing “Cookies” in your search bar or selecting “Delete browsing data” from your browser’s menu.

Note that this may remove any saved passwords stored in your browser. However, if you’re using a password manager, this isn’t a worry. The manager does the remembering for you.

Shut off startup apps

Windows runs several apps at startup, some of which you certainly need, such as antivirus software or online protection software. Other apps, however, might not be needed to run right away and just slow down startup.

To review your startup apps, type “Startup” in the Windows search bar or press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager. Click the Startup tab to see a list of apps and their impact on performance. Disable programs you don’t need immediately, but keep essential security software enabled. Focus on applications marked with “High” startup impact. 

Keep essential security software enabled at startup, and research unfamiliar programs before disabling them or just leave them alone.

Erase sensitive files from the recycle bin

You’d think that deleting files in the recycle bin erases them entirely. Not so. It only removes the “pointer” to those files, but the data remains on the drive. The only way to completely remove files is when something new overwrites them, which can take time.

To completely erase files with sensitive info, use a file shredder tool similar to that in McAfee+. Although this doesn’t necessarily improve performance, it helps prevent identity theft.

Update your operating system and drivers

Ensure optimal performance and security with the latest updates. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and click “Check for updates.” For driver updates, visit Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > View optional updates, or use Device Manager by right-clicking the Start button and selecting it. Updated drivers improve hardware compatibility and can resolve performance issues.

Run a comprehensive security scan

If your PC feels abnormally slow, malware may be the real cause. Complete your cleanup by scanning for malware and other threats that may be causing the slowdown. Some threats run quietly in the background, consuming system resources and compromising privacy.

• Use built-in Windows Security or trusted tools: Start with a quick scan, and follow up with a deeper scan if anything looks suspicious. This can remove hidden processes that slow down your system.
• Avoid random “free cleaners”: Many of them bundle adware or unwanted programs. Stick to well-known security vendors and official sources.

Deep clean with a PC Optimizer

For a deeper clean, consider PC cleaning software such as McAfee PC Optimizer, designed to detect and clear out unnecessary files, manage startup apps, and even clean the registry at the press of a button. These cleaners usually come with customizable settings to suit your preferences. You can set automatic clean-ups at regular intervals, thus saving time, and freeing you from the hassle of remembering to run the cleanup.

To choose reliable and safe PC cleaning software, read reviews and understand what each feature does. Always use a trusted, reputable security software and avoid downloading PC cleaners from unknown sources, as some may contain malware.

Special considerations for SSD drives

If your PC uses a solid-state drive (SSD), avoid traditional defragmentation as it can reduce the drive’s lifespan without providing performance benefits. Windows automatically runs TRIM commands to instruct your SSD to delete data blocks that are no longer used. 

You can manually enable TRIM by opening Command Prompt as an administrator and running “fsutil behavior set DisableDeleteNotify 0” to confirm it’s enabled. However, we do not recommend doing this. It’s best to let Windows handle optimization automatically. 

Windows registry: To clean or not to clean

The Windows registry is your computer’s central database, storing critical configuration settings for your operating system and installed programs. Registry cleaning is a misunderstood part of PC optimization. Many people think it’s essential, but modern Windows systems usually don’t benefit from it. In addition, today’s Windows versions manage registry complexity more effectively than older versions. 

Unlike clearing temporary files or uninstalling old apps, manual registry changes can have far-reaching consequences and serious issues if done incorrectly. A single incorrect change can prevent apps from opening or cause system instability. Unless you’re troubleshooting a specific issue, it’s safer to skip it.

A clean slate for you and your PC

Restart your computer after completing these steps to ensure all changes take effect properly. Regular maintenance every 3-6 months will help keep your PC running smoothly and securely.

Physically clean your computer

Another aspect of cleaning your PC to improve its performance entails physical cleanup, specifically dust removal. When dust builds up, your PC can’t cool itself properly, leading to slower speeds, louder fans, and random stuttering. Follow this quick guide:

• Power down and disconnect everything: Turn off your computer entirely and unplug all cables before cleaning. This prevents electrical damage and keeps you safe during the cleaning process.
• Discharge static electricity: Touch a grounded metal object or use an anti-static wrist strap before handling internal components. Static electricity can damage sensitive computer parts.
• Use compressed air for dust removal: Blow out dust from vents, fans, and internal components using short bursts of compressed air. Hold the can upright and maintain a few inches of distance to avoid moisture buildup.
• Support fan blades while cleaning: Gently hold fan blades in place when using compressed air to prevent them from spinning too fast, which can damage the motor or create electrical feedback.
• Clean case vents and intake areas: Remove dust from all ventilation openings, especially intake fans and exhaust vents, which tend to accumulate dust.
• Avoid liquids near electronics: Never use water, cleaning solutions, or damp cloths on internal components. If you must clean the exterior case, use slightly damp cloths only on plastic surfaces, avoiding all ports and openings.
• Focus on heat-generating components: Pay special attention to the CPU cooler, graphics card fans, and power supply vents, as dust here directly impacts cooling performance.
• Clean regularly for sustained performance: Dust-free systems run cooler and prevent thermal throttling, where your CPU or GPU reduces performance to avoid overheating. This keeps your computer running at optimal speed.
• Know when to seek professional help: If you’re uncomfortable opening your computer case or notice excessive dust buildup in hard-to-reach areas, consider having a professional service perform a thorough cleaning.
• Reassemble and test: Once you have completed the cleaning, reconnect all cables and secure the side panel. Power on your system and check that the CPU fan spins properly. Monitor temperatures during initial use to ensure adequate cooling.

Clean your PC to improve your game, somewhat

If you’re asking this question, you’re probably gaming — and yes, cleaning can help restore lost frames per second (FPS), but it won’t magically exceed your hardware’s capabilities. 

Dust buildup causes thermal throttling, which leads to frame drops and stuttering. Physical cleaning will reduce overheating, improve airflow, and help maintain stable frame rates.

Meanwhile, too many processes can consume CPU time and RAM, hindering your gaming experience. Trimming startup apps and closing unused background tools can improve gaming smoothness.

Remember, though, that cleaning won’t address your PC’s hardware limitations. If your GPU can’t handle your settings, no amount of cleanup will make it a high-end card. Cleaning keeps your current hardware running at its best.

Find the best PC cleaner

For most users, combining manual cleaning with reputable automated tools provides the best results. Quality PC optimizers can safely handle routine maintenance tasks, but it’s also important to choose trusted solutions that won’t cause more problems than they solve.

Make safe choices

The market offers both legitimate optimization software as well as potentially harmful programs that could compromise your system’s security and privacy. Red flags to watch for include solutions that:

• Bundle adware or unwanted programs that install alongside the cleaner
• Promise unrealistic performance gains through aggressive registry modifications
• Exaggerate scan results, claiming thousands of “critical errors” to pressure you into purchasing
• Request excessive system permissions beyond what’s needed for basic cleanup tasks
• Lack of transparency about what files or settings will be modified

Choose trustworthy PC cleaning tools by:

• Downloading only from official vendors and verified software repositories
• Reading user reviews and expert evaluations from reputable technology publications
• Verifying the software publisher’s reputation and track record in cybersecurity
• Checking for clear privacy policies that explain data collection practices
• Looking for tools that provide detailed cleanup reports before making changes
• Considering integrated solutions that include PC optimization and protection capabilities for better compatibility and coordinated system management

Consider hardware upgrades

If you have done everything you can to clean your PC systemically and physically, and it is still running slow, it might be time to consider a hardware upgrade. Modern computers with sufficient RAM and processing power respond well to maintenance, while older systems may need hardware upgrades to see meaningful improvements. In this day and age, upgrading to 8GB or 16GB will likely deliver more dramatic performance improvements than any cleaning routine. 

Similarly, switching from a traditional hard drive to an SSD provides speed boosts that far exceed what software optimization can do. For example, upgrading to an SSD can dramatically reduce boot times, while routine PC cleaning typically produces more modest improvements. The sweet spot for PC cleaning benefits occurs when you can balance adequate hardware and software accumulation. 

Final thoughts

Cleaning your PC is an essential part of maintaining its performance. While it might not drastically increase your PC’s speed, it contributes to overall efficiency, responsiveness, and longevity.

The key to lasting results is establishing a consistent maintenance routine, whether it means weekly disk cleanups, monthly startup reviews, or quarterly deep cleans with trusted tools. Take note that it is best to approach PC cleaning carefully, deleting with discretion to avoid accidentally removing necessary files or applications. For those who aren’t comfortable doing it manually, reliable PC cleaning software like McAfee+ can simplify the process and save time.

The post Does PC Cleaning Improve Performance? appeared first on McAfee Blog.