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This Week in Scams: Explaining the Fake Amazon Code Surge

By: Brooke Seipel — January 9th 2026 at 19:34
blogging on social media

This week in scams, the biggest threats showed up as routine security messages, viral consumer “warnings,” and AI-generated content that blended seamlessly into platforms people already trust. 

Every week, we bring you a roundup of the scams making headlines, not just to track what’s happening, but to explain how these schemes work, why they’re spreading now, and what you can do to stay ahead of them.  

Here are scams in the news this week, and safety tips from our experts at McAfee: 

Amazon One-Time Passcode Scam: How Fake Security Calls Hijack Real Accounts 

Scammers are increasingly impersonating Amazon customer support to take over accounts using real one-time passcodes (OTPs), not fake links or malware. 

Here’s how the scam works in practice. 

What is the Amazon one-time passcode scam? 

Victims receive an unsolicited phone call from someone claiming to work for Amazon. The caller says suspicious activity has been detected on the account and may reference expensive purchases, often items like smartphones, to make the threat feel credible. 

The call usually comes from a spoofed number and the scammer may already know your name or phone number, which helps lower suspicion. 

How scammers use real Amazon security codes 

While speaking to you, the scammer attempts to access your Amazon account themselves by entering your phone number or email address on the login page and selecting “forgot password” or triggering a login from a new device. 

That action causes Amazon’s real security system to send a legitimate one-time passcode to your phone or email. 

If you read that code aloud or share it, the scammer can immediately: 

  • Complete the login process 
  • Change your account password 
  • Access saved payment methods 
  • Place fraudulent orders or lock you out of the account 

The scam works precisely because the code is real—and because it arrives while the caller is convincing you it’s part of a routine security check. 

Key red flags to watch for 

  • Unsolicited calls claiming to be from Amazon 
  • Requests to share a one-time passcode 
  • Pressure to act quickly “to secure your account” 

Important to remember: Amazon will never contact you first to ask for your password, verification codes, or security details. If you receive a one-time passcode you didn’t request, do not share it with anyone. 

AI Deepfake Scam on TikTok Uses Fake Princess to Steal Money 

A growing scam on TikTok shows how AI-generated deepfake videos are now being used not just for misinformation, but for direct financial fraud. 

This week, Spanish media and officials warned that scammers are circulating fake TikTok videos appearing to show Princess Leonor, the 20-year-old heir to Spain’s throne, offering financial assistance to users.  

According to The Guardian, the videos show an AI-generated version of Leonor promising payouts running into the thousands of dollars in exchange for a small upfront “fee.”  

Once victims send that initial payment, the scam doesn’t end. Fraudsters repeatedly demand additional fees before eventually disappearing. 

This case highlights how deepfakes are moving beyond novelty and into repeatable, high-reach fraud, where trust in familiar public figures is weaponized at scale. 

Viral Reddit “Whistleblower” Scam: When AI-Generated Posts Fool Millions 

A viral post on Reddit this week shows how AI-generated text can convincingly impersonate whistleblowers, and even mislead experienced journalists. 

The post claimed to come from an employee at a major food delivery company, alleging the firm was exploiting drivers and users through opaque AI systems. Written as a long, confessional screed, the author said he was drunk, using library Wi-Fi, and risking retaliation to expose the truth. 

The claims were believable in part because similar companies have faced real lawsuits in the past. The post rocketed to Reddit’s front page, collecting over 87,000 upvotes, and spread even further after being reposted on X, where it amassed tens of millions of impressions. 

As Platformer journalist Casey Newton later reported, the supposed whistleblower provided what appeared to be convincing evidence, including a photo of an employee badge and an 18-page internal document describing an AI-driven “desperation score” used to manage drivers. But during verification attempts, red flags emerged. The materials were ultimately traced back to an AI-generated hoax. 

Detection tools later confirmed that some of the images contained AI watermarks, but only after the post had already gone viral. 

Why AI-generated hoaxes like this are dangerous 

  • They mimic real whistleblower behavior and language 
  • They exploit existing public distrust of large platforms 
  • They can mislead journalists, not just casual readers 
  • Debunking often comes too late to stop spread 

This incident underscores a growing problem: AI-generated misinformation doesn’t need to steal money directly to cause harm. Sometimes, the damage is to trust itself — and by the time the truth surfaces, the narrative has already taken hold. 

McAfee’s Safety Tips for This Week 

As scams increasingly rely on a combination of realism and urgency, protecting yourself starts with slowing down and verifying before you act. 

If a message or video promises money or financial help: 

  • Be skeptical of any offer that requires an upfront “fee,” no matter how small. 
  • Remember that public figures, charities, and foundations do not distribute money through social media DMs or comment sections. 
  • If an offer claims to come from a well-known individual or organization, verify it through official websites or trusted news sources. 

When content appears viral or emotionally convincing: 

  • Pause before sharing or acting on posts framed as warnings, whistleblower revelations, or exposés. 
  • Look for confirmation from multiple reputable outlets — not just screenshots or reposts. 
  • Be cautious of long, detailed posts that feel personal or confessional but can’t be independently verified. 

When AI may be involved: 

  • Assume that realistic images, videos, and documents can be generated quickly and at scale. 
  • Don’t rely on appearance alone to determine authenticity, even high-quality content can be fake. 
  • Treat unsolicited financial requests, account actions, or “inside information” as red flags, regardless of how credible they seem. 

If you think you’ve engaged with a scam: 

  • Stop responding immediately. 
  • Secure your accounts by changing passwords and enabling multi-factor authentication. 
  • Monitor financial statements and account activity for unusual behavior. 

Final Takeaway 

The scams making headlines this week share a common theme: they don’t look like scams at first glance. Whether it’s an AI-generated video of a public figure or a viral post posing as a consumer warning, today’s fraud relies on familiarity, credibility, and trust. 

That’s why McAfee’s Scam Detector and Web Protection help detect scam messages, dangerous sites, and AI-generated deepfake videos, alerting you before you interact or click. 

We’ll be back next week with another roundup of the scams worth watching, the stories behind them, and the steps you can take to stay one step ahead. 

The post This Week in Scams: Explaining the Fake Amazon Code Surge appeared first on McAfee Blog.

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7 Types of Hacker Motivations

By: McAfee — November 16th 2025 at 18:19

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.

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    New Year Reset: A Quick Guide to Improving Your Digital Hygiene in 2026

    By: Brooke Seipel — December 31st 2025 at 11:00

    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.

    The good news is that modern protection has evolved just as quickly as the threats. Many of the most effective safeguards can be set up quickly and then work in the background over time.

    Below, we’ll walk through practical steps you can take to improve your digital hygiene for 2026, using protections included with McAfee+ to help reduce your exposure to scams, data misuse, and identity theft.

    1) Replace every weak password, starting with your email. 

    Think about your passwords and everything they give you access to … your finances, online shopping accounts, banking, and of course every important thing in your email account. 

    Now are any of those passwords weak, re-used, or highly similar? Don’t worry if the answer to that is “yes.” You can switch them over to strong, unique passwords across all your accounts. Using a password manager like ours helps you create strong, unique while also storing them securely. Quickly. 

    Q&A   Q: Should I use a password manager? 

    A: Yes. It’s the easiest way to create strong, unique passwords for all your online accounts, which protects you from data breaches and hacks.  

     

    So, what makes up a “strong and unique” password? 

    It contains a mix of 16 uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols while never reusing that password elsewhere. That makes the password incredibly tough to crack and protects your other accounts if that password gets caught up in a breach (it won’t work on any other account). 

    Yes, creating strong and unique passwords for your dozens and dozens of accounts can be … demanding. But that’s where a password manager comes in. It does that work for you. 

    2) Delete those old accounts and protect yourself from data breaches. 

    Speaking of all the accounts you have, how many of them do you really need? And how many of them have you forgotten about altogether? It’s time to track them down and close them up. Why? Data breaches of various sizes hack into an estimated 3.5 million accounts on average each day, so the odds of an old account of yours getting compromised are better than you might think. But where do you even start? 

     

    Q&A 

    		  Q: Should I delete my old accounts? 

    A: Yes. When you delete old accounts, you reduce your digital footprint and lower the risk of exposure to data breaches, both of which help protect your personal info.  

     

    Our Online Account Cleanup can track down those old accounts for you. It scans for accounts you no longer use and helps you delete the ones you choose, along with your personal info. In our McAfee+ Advanced and McAfee+ Ultimate plans, you get full-service Online Account Cleanup, which sends the data deletion requests for you. 

    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.

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    Verify Secure Wireless Networks to Prevent Identity Theft

    By: McAfee — November 7th 2025 at 21:23

    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.

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    What Does It Take To Be Digitally Secure?

    By: McAfee — November 18th 2025 at 12:20
    woman taking a digital detox

    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.

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    Hack the Vote: Pros and Cons of Electronic Voting

    By: McAfee — November 17th 2025 at 23:25
    vote wallpaper on laptop

    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.

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    Crush that Worm before It Creeps into Your Computer

    By: McAfee — November 17th 2025 at 17:58
    virus check on screen

    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.

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    The Top 12 Scams Of Christmas To Watch Out For

    By: McAfee — November 16th 2025 at 14:05
    Holiday Shopping Online

    The holidays are just around the corner and amid the hustle and bustle, many of us will fire up our devices to go online, order gifts, plan travel, and spread cheer. But while we’re getting festive, the cybercriminals are getting ready to take advantage of the influx of your good cheer to spread scams and malware.

    With online shopping expected to grow by 7.9% year-on-year in the U.S. alone in 2025, according to Mastercard, and more people than ever using social media and mobile devices to connect, the cybercriminals have a lot of opportunities to spoil our fun. Using multiple devices provides the bad guys with more ways to access your valuable “digital assets,” such as personal information and files, especially if the devices are under-protected.

    In this guide, let’s look into the 12 most common cybercrimes and scams of Christmas, and what you can do to keep your money, information, and holiday spirit safe.

    The psychology of holiday fraud

    The festive atmosphere, continued increase in online shopping activity, and charitable spirit that define the holidays create perfect conditions for scammers to exploit your generosity and urgency.

    Not surprisingly, digital criminals become more active and professional during this period, driven even more by the increasing power of artificial intelligence. A new McAfee holiday shopping report revealed that 86% of consumers surveyed receive a daily average of 11 shopping-related text or email messages that seem suspicious. This includes 3 scam texts, 5 emails, and 3 social media messages. Meanwhile, 22% admit they have been scammed during a holiday season in the past.

    Their scams succeed because they exploit the psychological and behavioral patterns that are rife during the holidays. The excitement and time pressure of holiday shopping often prevail over our usual caution, while the emotional aspects of gift-giving and charitable donations can be exploited and move us to be more generous. Meanwhile, scammers understand that you’re more likely to make quick purchasing decisions when the fear of missing out on limited-time offers overtakes your judgment or when you’re rushing to find the perfect gift before it’s too late.

    Overall, the frenzied seasonal themes create an environment where criminals can misuse the urgency of their fake offers and cloud our judgment, making fraudulent emails and websites appear more legitimate, while you’re already operating under the stress of holiday deadlines and budget concerns. After all, holiday promotions and charity appeals are expected during this time of year.

    Now that you understand the psychology behind the scams, it’s time to become more aware of the common scams that cybercriminals run during the holiday season.

    The 12 Scams of Christmas

    As you head online this holiday season, stay on guard and stay aware of scammers’ attempts to steal your money and your information. Familiarize yourself with the “12 Scams of Christmas” to ensure a safe and happy holiday season:

    1. Social media scams

    Many of us use social media sites to connect with family, friends, and co-workers over the holidays, and the cybercriminals know that this is a good place to catch you off guard because we’re all “friends,” right? Here are some ways that criminals will use these channels to obtain shoppers gift money, identity or other personal information:

    • Be careful when liking pages, clicking on fake alerts from friends’ accounts that have been hacked, taking advantage of raffles, ads, and deals that you get from “friends,” or installing suspicious “holiday deal” apps that give your private data away. These links can automatically download malware onto your computer that can steal personal information.
    • Ads announcing special discounts for popular gifts are especially popular, and utilize blind, shortened links, many of which could easily be malicious. Criminals are getting savvier with authentic-looking social ads and deals that direct you to fake websites. To take advantage of the deals or contests, scammers will ask you for personal information that will enable them to obtain your credit card number, email address, phone number, or home address.

    2. Malicious mobile apps

    As the popularity of smartphone apps has grown, so have the chances of you downloading a malicious application that steals your information or sends premium-rate text messages without your knowledge. Apps ask for more permissions than they need, such as access to your contacts or location.

    If you unwrap a new smartphone this holiday season, make sure that you only download applications from official app stores and check other users’ reviews, as well as the app’s permission policies, before downloading. Software, such as McAfee Mobile Security, can also help protect you against dangerous apps.

    3. Travel scams

    Many of us travel to visit family and friends over the holidays. We begin our journey online by looking for deals on airfare, hotels, and rental cars. Before you book, keep in mind that scammers are looking to hook you with phony travel webpages with too-fantastic deals—beautiful pictures and rock-bottom prices—to deceive you into handing over your financial details and money.

    Even when you’re already on the road, you need to be careful. Sometimes, scammers who have gained unauthorized access to hotel Wi-Fi will release a malicious pop-up ad on your device screen, and prompt you to install software before connecting. If you agree to the installation, it downloads malware onto your machine. To thwart such an attempt, it’s important that you perform a security software update before traveling.

    4. Holiday spam/phishing

    You are probably already familiar with email phishing and SMiShing messages containing questionable offers and links. The scammer will mimic a legitimate organization offering cheap Rolex watches and luxury products as the “perfect gift” for that special someone, or send a message posing as your bank with a holiday promo and try to lure you into revealing information or direct you to a fake webpage. Never respond to these scams or click on an included link. Be aware that real banks won’t ask you to divulge personal information via text message. If you have any questions about your accounts, you should contact your bank directly.

    5. Quishing

    QR code phishing, or “quishing,” has emerged as a significant new threat during holiday shopping seasons. In this scam method, cybercriminals place malicious QR codes in holiday advertisements posted on social media or printed flyers, parking meters and payment kiosks at shopping centers, or at restaurant tables during holiday dining. They could also email attachments claiming to offer exclusive holiday deals or fake shipping labels placed over legitimate tracking QR codes.

    6. The new iPad, iPhone, and other hot holiday gift scams

    The kind of excitement and buzz surrounding Apple’s new iPad and iPhone is just what cybercrooks dream of when they plot their scams. They will mention must-have holiday gifts in dangerous links, phony contests, and phishing emails to grab your attention. Once they’ve caught your eye, they will again try to get you to reveal personal information or click on a dangerous link that could download malware onto your machine. Be suspicious of any deal mentioning hot holiday gift items—especially at extremely low prices—and try to verify the offer with the real retailer involved.

    7. Bogus HR and bonus emails

    Cybercriminals exploit employee expectations of year-end communications by creating fake emails that appear to come from your HR department. These messages often claim to contain annual bonus information, updated benefits packages, or mandatory holiday attendance announcements. These scams are particularly effective because they prey on legitimate employee concerns about compensation, benefits, and personal time off during the holiday season. The emails often feature real-looking company logos, proper formatting, and even references to company policies to increase their credibility.

    8. Bogus gift cards

    Gift cards are probably the perfect gift for some people on your holiday list. Given their popularity, cybercriminals can’t help but want to get in on the action by offering bogus gift cards online. Be wary of buying gift cards from third parties. It’s best to buy from the official retailer. Just imagine how embarrassing it would be to find out that the gift card you gave your mother-in-law was fraudulent!

    9. Phony e-tailers

    No matter what gift you’re looking for, chances are you can find it quickly and easily online, but you still want to be careful in selecting which site to shop. By promoting great deals, phony e-commerce sites will try to convince you to type in your credit card number and other personal details. After obtaining your money and information, you never receive the merchandise, and your personal information is put at risk. To prevent falling victim to bogus e-commerce stores, shop only at trusted and well-known e-commerce sites. If you’re shopping on a site for the first time, check other users’ reviews and verify that the phone number listed on the site is legitimate.

    10. Fake charities

    This is one of the biggest scams of every holiday season. As we open our hearts and wallets, the bad guys will send spam emails and pretend to be a real charity in the hope of getting in on the giving. Their emails will sport a stolen logo and copycat text, or come from an entirely invented charity. If you want to give, it’s always safer to visit the charity’s legitimate website, and do a little research about the charity before you donate.

    11. Dangerous e-cards

    E-cards are a popular way to send a quick “thank you” or holiday greeting. While most e-cards are safe, some are malicious and may contain spyware or viruses that download onto your computer once you click on the link to view the greeting. Before clicking, look for clues that the e-card is legitimate. Make sure it comes from a well-known e-card site by checking the domain name of the included link. Also check to see that the sender is someone you actually know, and that there are no misspellings or other red flags that the card is a fake.

    12. Fake shipping and delivery notices

    With increased package deliveries during the holiday season, fake shipping notifications have become a common attack. These messages claim to be from legitimate shipping companies such as UPS, FedEx, or DHL, informing you of package delivery attempts or shipping delays. To complete the delivery, these notices will ask you to click on malicious links or attachments that will download malware or direct you to fake websites that will steal personal information. The timing of these attacks coincides with legitimate increased shipping activity, making them harder to distinguish from authentic communications. To track your deliveries, it is best to check the shipping company’s real website or through the trusted platform from which you ordered the product.

    Protect yourself from scams during the holidays and year-round

    Knowing about these common scam tactics is only the first step toward protecting yourself and those you care about. The next step is for you to learn and implement practical, effective strategies to stay safe while still enjoying digital holiday shopping and giving.

    • Stay suspicious: Be wary of any offer that sounds extremely unrealistic, such as 90% discounts on luxury brands, and always learn to spot telltale signs of a fake marketing promotion such as low-resolution images, high-pressure tactics, misspellings, poor grammar, or odd links.
    • Practice safe surfing: Find out if a website is potentially dangerous before you click on it by using a safe search plug-in such as McAfee Web Protection, which blocks malware and phishing sites if you accidentally click on a malicious link, alerts you if you type a web address incorrectly and points you in the right direction, and scans your downloads and alerts you if there’s a known risk.
    • Shop mindfully: Stick to reputable e-commerce sites and platforms, and look for a trustmark that indicates that the site has been verified as safe by a reliable third-party. Also, look for a lock symbol beside the HTTPS at the beginning of the web address to see if the site uses encryption to protect your data.
    • Check before clicking: Don’t click on any links in messages from people you don’t know. If you come across a shortened URL, use a URL expander to see where the link directs to before you click.
    • Be cautious of high-pressure tactics: Legitimate businesses and charities will respectfully give you time to make purchase or donation decisions. Be suspicious of organizations that pressure you to buy or give immediately. Charities specifically should be able to provide written information about their programs and financial management.
    • Use strong passwords: Make sure your passwords are at least 12 characters long with randomly combined letters, numbers, and characters. Avoid reusing the same password across your important accounts, and never share your passwords with anyone.
    • Monitor your financial accounts actively: During peak shopping periods, review your bank and credit card statements at least once daily for charges you don’t recognize, even small ones that scammers sometimes use to test stolen card information. Set up account alerts for all transactions, low balances, and any changes to your account information.
    • Use credit instead of debit: When shopping online or in unfamiliar locations, use credit cards rather than debit cards. Credit cards typically offer better fraud protection, and fraudulent charges don’t immediately affect your bank account balance.
    • Monitor your credit reports: Check your credit reports regularly for new accounts or inquiries you didn’t authorize. The FTC provides free annual credit reports through AnnualCreditReport.com, and many services now offer free ongoing credit monitoring.
    • Consider temporary credit freezes: If you’re not planning to apply for new credit during the holidays, consider placing a temporary freeze on your credit reports to prevent scammers from opening new accounts in your name, and you can lift the freeze quickly when needed.
    • Recognize red flags: Holiday-themed phishing attempts abound during the season, making it crucial to identify and avoid suspicious communications. Closely check email addresses and phone numbers from unexpected communications, be suspicious of urgent language, watch for poor grammar and spelling, and don’t just click any link or scan any QR code.
    • Practice safe app downloads and installation: If you gift yourself with a new device this holiday season, download only well-reviewed apps developed by legitimate developers and sourced from official sources such as the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Microsoft Store. When installing, limit the app’s permission to only what it needs to function.
    • Keep apps updated: Regularly update your apps to ensure you have the latest security patches. Enable automatic updates when possible, and review what’s being updated periodically. Remove apps you no longer use.
    • Use a complete security solution: With the growing sophistication of scams coming in from all fronts of technology, you will need comprehensive protection with antivirus, antispyware, antispam, and a firewall. McAfee+ can help protect all of your devices—PCs, laptops, smartphones, and tablets—from AI-driven malware, phishing, spyware, and other common and emerging threats.
    • Educate yourself and your family: Keep increasing your knowledge of the latest scams and tricks cybercriminals use so you can recognize and avoid potential attacks. You can find helpful information on the McAfee Blogs and the McAfee Guides.

    Final thoughts

    The holiday season brings joy and connection, but it’s also a time when scammers work hardest to exploit your festive but rushed and distracted spirit. Effective Christmas scam prevention starts with awareness. By slowing down and taking a moment to verify before you click or buy, and using layered cybersecurity protections, you can worry about one less thing and focus on what matters most this season.

    Stay security-conscious without letting fear diminish your holiday enjoyment and pursue your digital holiday activities with the right knowledge and tools. We hope that the specific, actionable protections will help you identify red flags, verify legitimate offers, secure your devices and accounts, and respond effectively to suspicious activity. Stay informed by following trusted sources for the latest cybersecurity tips during the holidays, and make this season about celebrating safely with the people you care about most.

    Send the link to this page to your family and friends to increase their awareness and take steps to protect themselves.

    The post The Top 12 Scams Of Christmas To Watch Out For appeared first on McAfee Blog.

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    Helpful Tips for Safe Online Shopping

    By: McAfee — November 14th 2025 at 13:04
    Shopper using smartphone app

    Thanksgiving—not before Halloween as we see things in stores and online now. It seems like the holiday season and decorations start earlier and earlier every year.

    But one thing that hasn’t changed is that Black Friday is still a big shopping day. With the advent of online shopping has emerged Cyber Monday, another big sale day for online shoppers on the first Monday after Thanksgiving.

    Although many of us may take advantage of these great deals that the holidays offer, we also need to be aware of the risks. Online shopping is a fun and convenient way to make purchases, locate hard-to-find items, and discover bargains, but we need to take steps to protect ourselves.

    This guide looks at the methods and warning signs behind online shopping scams, shows you how to recognize fake shopping apps and websites, and shares tips for staying safe online.

    Online shopping safety amid growing e-commerce concerns

    Online shopping has become a cornerstone of American life. CapitalOne Shopping projects American online spending to reach $1.34 trillion in 2024 and exceed $2.5 trillion in 2030.

    With such a massive sum at stake, cybercriminals are laser-focused on taking a share of it, posing financial risk to the 288 million Americans who shop online. As e-commerce grows, so does fraud. In 2024, e-commerce fraud was valued at $44.3 billion, a number seen to grow by 141% to $107 billion in 2029.

    Be that as it may, there are many smart shopping habits you can apply to dramatically reduce your risk of becoming a victim of online shopping fraud and enjoy the convenience and benefits of online commerce.

    Common online shopping scams

    Online shopping scams are designed to look normal—at first glance—especially during busy sale seasons when we’re distracted by a million preparations, moving fast, and chasing deals. These are the very circumstances that fraudsters bank on to victimize you into taking the bait. Being aware of the common scam indicators will help you pause and think, recognize trouble early, and protect both your money and your personal information.

    • Non-delivery scams: You pay for items that never arrive, often from fake storefronts or fraudulent sellers who disappear with your money. The seller might have required you to pay through a wire transfer, cryptocurrency, or gift card, methods that are indisputable and untraceable. If you check the website, it may look new and have no customer reviews or suspiciously have only perfect 5-star ratings. It may also offer prices that are significantly below market value.
    • Counterfeit goods scams: You receive knock-off products instead of authentic brand-name items, particularly affecting electronics, cosmetics, and luxury goods. On closer inspection, you will notice spelling errors in brand names or product descriptions, the prices seem too good to be true for premium brands, and sellers have no proof of authenticity or authorized dealer status.
    • Bait-and-switch scams: Attractive deals lure you in, but you’re pressured to buy different, more expensive items or receive products that don’t match what was advertised. This type of scam is usually characterized by items that are always “out of stock,” but offer readily available, more expensive alternatives. The seller also applies high-pressure sales tactics or limited-time offers that prevent you from comparison shopping, while the product descriptions are vague or don’t match the images shown.
    • Refund and overpayment scams: In this scheme, scammers will pose as buyers who “accidentally” overpay you for items you’re selling, then request you to refund the difference before their original payment bounces. They will also use payment methods that can be reversed such as checks or money orders, then ask for a refund and suggest sending shipping companies to collect items before the payment clears.
    • Website and marketplace impersonations: Fake websites designed to look like legitimate popular brands can steal your payment information and personal data. Watch out for websites that have slightly misspelled URLs or don’t use secure HTTPS encryption as marked by the padlock icon in your browser, as well as missing or incomplete contact information, privacy policies, or terms of service.
    • Product return fraud: Scammers exploit return policies by selling you used, damaged, or counterfeit items while making returns and refunds difficult or impossible through fake or non-existent customer service. Their return policies are overly complicated, buried in fine print, or require original packaging that wasn’t provided. They will disappear from marketplaces immediately after the return period expires.

    A guide to knowing if a shopping website is legit

    Safe online shopping starts with recognizing the hallmarks of legitimate retailers. Before you enter any payment details, take a moment to verify that the website you’re shopping on is genuine. Scam stores can look polished and convincing, but they often leave behind subtle clues. Here are quick ways to check their authenticity:

    1. Verify the website URL: By typing the URL directly into your browser rather than clicking links from emails or ads, you will avoid typosquatting scams—fake websites with URLs that look almost identical to real retailers, except for slight misspellings. Look for clear return and shipping policies. Read the fine print to understand your rights if something goes wrong.
    2. Confirm physical address and customer service: Real businesses provide multiple ways to contact them, including a physical address, phone number, and email.
    3. Evaluate pricing for realism: The prices are too good to be true, especially for high-demand or hard-to-find items. Many legitimate retailers now offer price-matching policies, allowing you to get market-average or competitive prices.
    4. Check for verified customer reviews: Look for reviews on independent platforms like Google, Yelp, or Trustpilot rather than relying solely on testimonials on the retailer’s website. Cross-reference feedback across multiple platforms.
    5. Ensure secure payment options: Look for HTTPS in the URL and avoid sites that only accept wire transfers, gift cards, peer-to-peer payment apps, or cryptocurrency. For online purchases, check that the seller offers secure payment options with dispute protection, such as digital wallets and/or credit cards.
    6. Research domain age and registration: Use WHOIS lookup tools to check when the domain was registered. Fraudulent sites are usually newly created domains designed to disappear quickly after collecting payments. In addition, established retailers and official brand websites have invested heavily in solid security infrastructure and payment processing, customer protection programs, fraud prevention systems, and long-standing relationships with credit card companies that smaller or unknown sellers often lack.
    7. Check the Better Business Bureau: Search for the seller’s company on the Better Business Bureau to see their rating, complaint history, and accreditation status, and help you identify potential risks before making a purchase.
    8. Pay attention to browser safety warnings: Modern browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Safari will warn you about potentially dangerous or untrustworthy sites. Google’s Safe Browsing technology blocks millions of unsafe sites daily, so don’t ignore these warnings when they appear. Some comprehensive security tools also include web protection that alert you against dangerous links and downloads, malicious websites, and more.
    9. Verify secure checkout processes: Legitimate sites use SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) encryption during checkout, which you can confirm by looking for “https://” and a lock icon in your browser’s address bar.

    11 Tips for safe holiday shopping online

    • Be extra vigilant: Cybercriminals send millions of fake shopping emails that contain suspicious links, with the aim of exploiting your anxiety over catching that amazing deal or deliveries. For example, you might receive an unexpected “Amazon Prime renewal” email or a text from UPS, FedEx, or other carriers when you didn’t purchase anything online. These phishing emails and texts contain malicious links designed to steal your personal information or install malware on your devices. Don’t click the link. Verify delivery notifications through your account or the carrier’s official website or app, then delete the scam email or text immediately.
    • Stick with trusted sellers: When shopping on marketplaces, stick with your trusted online retailers and sellers with high ratings, extensive review histories, and “fulfilled by” programs where the main platform handles shipping and returns. Download retailer apps directly from official app stores rather than third-party sources, as these include enhanced security features and exclusive customer protections.
    • Check the site’s web address: Always type retailer URLs directly into your browser’s address bar or use your bookmarks. Once you arrive at a site, make sure it is the correct URL such as www.amazon.com and not www.amazan.com. Purchase directly from official brand websites or authorized retailers, and verify seller credentials through the brand’s official dealer locator when shopping on marketplaces.
    • Check that the site is secure: Some people cannot tell if a site is secure. Some things to look for on a secure site include:
      • A web address that starts with HTTPS instead of HTTP, indicating that encryption is used to protect your information.
      • A lock symbol beside the URL, proper SSL certificates, and several contact methods.
      • A security seal, such as the McAfee SECURE™ trustmark, indicating that the site has been scanned and verified as secure by a trusted third party. This security seal indicates that the site will help protect you from identity theft, credit card fraud, spam, and other malicious threats.
    • Pay with a credit card or digital wallet: Credit cards offer better protection against fraud than debit cards. You won’t be liable for fraudulent purchases, while cyberthieves won’t be able to drain your bank account if they get your account log-in credentials. Better yet, use a virtual credit card number or a digital wallet such as Apple Pay or Google Pay to prevent your actual card details from being stored on merchant sites. Also, avoid storing your credit card information on new or questionable sites to reduce your exposure if those sites experience security breaches.
    • Take note of shipping and return policies: Always review shipping timelines, return windows, and refund policies before completing your purchase. Not reading the fine print can leave you stuck with unwanted purchases or unexpected fees.
    • Validate social media sellers: Shopping directly through social media platforms or unknown sellers bypasses traditional consumer safeguards. Before you buy from a social media seller, verify their legitimacy, check for customer reviews outside the platform, and use payment methods that offer dispute resolution.
    • Keep communications on-platform: Never move conversations or payments outside the marketplace platform. Scammers often try to lure buyers to external communication channels or direct payment methods to circumvent buyer protections. Legitimate sellers understand that platform policies protect both parties and will keep all interactions within the official channels.
    • Do not use a public computer or Wi-Fi when shopping online: Strangers may be able to access your browsing history and even your login information on shared devices or over unsecured public Wi-Fi. To protect yourself, do all of your online shopping from your home computer or your personal mobile device.
    • Make sure you have a clean computer or mobile device: Make sure you have up-to-date security software on all your devices to safeguard your privacy, protect against identity theft, and defend against viruses and online threats.
    • Keep a paper trail: Take a screenshot of product listings and advertisements before purchasing. Keep a copy of your order number and receipt, and note which credit card you used. When you receive your credit card statement, review it to make sure that the charge on your card is correct, with no extra fees.

    The FTC also recommends these additional tips so you can enjoy all the advantages that online shopping has to offer and prevent risking your personal information.

    Immediate steps to take if you ordered from a fake online store

    1. Contact your credit card issuer immediately: Call the customer service number on the back of your card once you realize you’ve been scammed. Request a chargeback and explain that you received counterfeit goods, nothing at all, or that the merchant was fraudulent. You usually have 60 days from your statement date to dispute charges, but acting quickly improves your chances of a successful resolution.
    2. Freeze or replace your payment card: Contact your bank or card issuer to freeze your current card and request a new account to prevent more unauthorized charges. If you used a debit card, this step is especially critical since debit card fraud protections are more limited than credit cards.
    3. Change your passwords and enable two-factor authentication: If you created an account on the fake website, change your password immediately on your real account and any linked accounts such as email, banking, and social media. Enable two-factor authentication and think about using a password manager to generate and store unique passwords for each account.
    4. Report the fraudulent seller to the platform or hosting service: Protect other consumers by reporting the fake store. If the site appeared in search results or social media ads, report it to those platforms. You can also report fraudulent websites to their hosting companies to take down fraudulent sites once notified.
    5. File reports with federal and state authorities: Report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) to help authorities track scam trends and assist in investigations. Additionally, contact your state’s attorney general office, as many have consumer protection divisions that handle online fraud.
    6. Save and organize all evidence: Document everything related to your purchase in both digital and printed formats: screenshots of the website, confirmation emails, receipts, payment records, and any communication with the seller. Save copies of your credit card or bank statements showing the charge. These documents are essential for your chargeback dispute and law enforcement investigations.
    7. Monitor your credit report and identity closely: Keep a close eye on your bank and credit card statements, as well as credit reports from all three major bureaus—Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion—for suspicious activity, and place a fraud alert or credit freeze on your accounts if you’re concerned about identity theft.
    8. Follow up on your chargeback and dispute process: Stay in regular contact with your credit card company about your dispute and provide additional documents promptly if requested. Be patient and persistent as the investigation process could take up to 90 days.

    Final thoughts

    Online shopping should feel exciting, not a dangerous undertaking you have to brace for, especially during the season of giving. It can be, with a few simple steps—checking the URL, looking for HTTPS, verifying the seller, paying with a credit card or virtual number, and trusting your gut when something feels suspicious. These small habits will keep your money and your identity where they belong: with you.

    For increased safety while shopping online, seek out the help of a trusted security solution such as McAfee+ that will alert you of risky links and compromised websites to prevent identity theft or malware infection.

    If this guide helps you, pass it along to someone you care about. Scams don’t just target individuals—they cascade into families and friend groups. The more we normalize safe shopping habits and increase our vigilance, the harder it is for fraudsters to win. If you ever feel unsure mid-purchase, take a breath and double-check. A few extra seconds now can save you a lot of stress later. Stay safe, and happy shopping!

    The post Helpful Tips for Safe Online Shopping appeared first on McAfee Blog.

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    15 Vital Tips To Better Password Security

    By: McAfee — November 13th 2025 at 16:09
    better password security

    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.

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    15 Critical Tips to Stay Safe on Social Media

    By: McAfee — November 13th 2025 at 00:13
    woman checking her social media on mobile

    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.

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    Smart Ways to Keep Your Social Security Number from Being Cracked

    By: McAfee — November 12th 2025 at 00:26

    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.

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    Essential Tips to Avoid ATM Skimming

    By: McAfee — November 11th 2025 at 00:49

    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.

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    Celebrate Data Privacy Day by Applying These Best Practices

    By: McAfee — November 9th 2025 at 20:14

    This is a critical time for our personal security, particularly in terms of privacy and personal information. A battle is being waged over our data by multiple parties, from criminal hackers to advertisers and data brokers. This article provides essential tips to help you protect the personal details you want to keep private and stay safe online.

    The Battle for Your Personal Data

    Criminal hackers and identity thieves want to use your name to open new accounts, which they can turn into cash. They may try to obtain credit cards, utility services, or mobile phones using your good credit. In other cases, these same thieves take over existing bank or credit card accounts and completely empty them out. Identity theft affects millions of Americans each year, with over 1.4 million reports filed to the FTC in recent years and an estimated 15 million victims annually.

    Online Tracking and Advertising

    Online, advertisers and marketers use tracking cookies and sophisticated technologies to gather information about you and your web browsing habits. They can then offer you products or services based on the profile they’ve developed. Almost every major website contains cookies, and they are changing the way advertising is created and targeted.

    The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has explored options, such as “Do Not Track” mechanisms, to allow consumers to opt out of data collection; however, these efforts have faced significant challenges. Browser-based solutions have been proposed, but the advertising industry’s partnerships with major media and tech companies have made comprehensive opt-out mechanisms difficult to implement effectively.

    Social Media Privacy Risks

    Social media companies compete for your attention and your information because user data is valuable to advertisers and marketers. Whatever you post in your profile is broken down, cataloged, and disseminated. Your name, age, address, email, phone number, contacts, income status, job description, and other personal details are of use to anyone targeting your wallet.

    However, legitimate advertisers aren’t the only ones targeting social networks. Criminal hackers and identity thieves are accessing your data, either through the public portion of these sites or by hacking through the back door. The bad guy is using your profile information to come up with an answer to your password reset question, or to trick you into opening your wallet or entering login credentials that might allow them to take over your existing accounts.

    What is Data Privacy Day?

    Amid all these developments, the National Cyber Security Alliance established Data Privacy Day, an annual awareness event observed every January 28, which encourages you to take control of your personal information and understand your online privacy rights. Initially launched in 2008, this important day coincides with the anniversary of the signing of Convention 108, the first legally binding international treaty dealing with privacy and data protection.

    As a U.S. consumer, Data Privacy Day matters to you more than ever because your personal information has become incredibly valuable and, unfortunately, increasingly vulnerable. Every day, you share personal details through social media, shopping websites, mobile apps, and online services, often without realizing how this information is collected, used, or shared.

    The observance of this day highlights several key risks that affect your daily digital life. Data misuse occurs when companies collect more information than necessary or use your personal details in ways you haven’t explicitly approved. Identity theft remains a significant threat, with criminals using stolen personal information to open fraudulent accounts, make unauthorized purchases, or even file fake tax returns. Additionally, data breaches continue to expose millions of Americans’ personal information each year, from social security numbers to financial details.

    What makes Data Privacy Day empowering is its focus on actionable steps you can take immediately. Rather than feeling overwhelmed by privacy concerns, you can use this day as motivation to review and strengthen your digital privacy habits. The day is a reminder that privacy and data protection aren’t just technical concepts. They’re fundamental rights that help you maintain control over your digital life.

    Data privacy core concepts

    Before delving deeper into regulations and best practices, let’s take a look at the core concepts. The Federal Trade Commission defines data privacy as the reasonable expectation that your personal information will be handled appropriately by the organizations that collect it. It is your fundamental right to control how your personal information is collected, used, shared, and retained by the companies and services you interact with every day. At its heart, data privacy ensures that you have a say in what happens to details about your life, from your name and email address to your online shopping preferences, videos watched, social media usage, and down to your browsing habits and location data.

    Your data follows a path that starts with collection, when companies gather information directly from you, such as when you fill out a form, or indirectly through cookies and tracking pixels. The use phase refers to how organizations process your information, whether to improve their services, target advertisements, or analyze user behavior. Sharing involves passing your data to third parties, from business partners to data brokers. Retention determines how long your information stays in their systems, often well beyond the end of your active relationship with the service.

    Throughout this process, your information is governed by three principles of modern data privacy:

    • Consent means companies should ask for your permission before collecting and using your personal information, and this permission should be freely given, specific, and informed. You shouldn’t have to accept data collection just to use basic services.
    • Control gives you the power to access, correct, delete, or restrict the use of your personal data.
    • Transparency requires companies to clearly explain their data practices in plain language, rather than burying them in lengthy legal documents.

    When Netflix asks if you want to share viewing data to improve recommendations, that’s consent in action. When Google lets you download your search history or delete location tracking, you’re exercising control. When Apple’s privacy labels show exactly what data an app collects, that’s transparency working for you.

    Your data privacy rights

    Under these newly instituted state privacy laws, you have several key rights that put you in control of your personal information:

    • Right to know: You can request information about what personal data companies collect about you, how it’s used, and who it is shared with.
    • Right to access: You can obtain copies of the personal information companies have collected about you.
    • Right to delete: You can request companies to delete your personal information, with certain exceptions.
    • Right to opt out: You can opt out of the sale or sharing of your personal data for targeted advertising.
    • Right to correct: You can request corrections to inaccurate personal information.
    • Right to non-discrimination: Companies cannot penalize you for exercising your privacy rights.

    Data privacy and data protection

    Data protection and data privacy are sometimes used interchangeably, but they serve different but complementary roles in keeping your personal information safe:

    • Data privacy is about your rights and choices in how your personal information gets collected, used, and shared. It’s less about technical security and more about giving you control over what happens with your data.
    • Data protection is about securing your information from threats such as hackers, breaches, and technical failures. It is the digital equivalent of a bank vault, using technical and organizational safeguards to keep your data safe from unauthorized access, theft, or loss.

    Here are some everyday scenarios that show how these concepts work differently:

    • Your encrypted backup files represent data protection in action. Even if someone gains access to your backup drive without the proper key, encryption makes your photos, documents, and files unreadable. The technical safeguard protects your data from misuse.
    • Choosing who can see your location on social media is a privacy decision. When you decide what personal information to share and with whom, you are exercising control over your data.
    • Your password manager provides data protection by securely storing and encrypting your login credentials, making them nearly impossible for criminals to steal and use.
    • Declining to provide your phone number when signing up for a shopping account is a privacy choice. You’re limiting the amount of personal information that gets collected about you in the first place.

    Data privacy laws

    As a consumer, your data privacy rights translate into real, actionable benefits you can use today. However, the effectiveness of these protections often depends on enforcement and your own awareness of the tools available to you.

    The U.S. privacy landscape

    U.S. state privacy laws are increasingly giving you the right to know what personal information companies collect, the right to delete your data, and the right to opt out of having your information sold or shared.

    America’s privacy framework is built on sector-specific federal regulations combined with increasingly robust state legislation. This approach means your rights and protections can vary significantly depending on where you live and what type of data is being collected.

    At the federal level, key laws include the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) for healthcare data, the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) for credit information, and the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) for children under 13 years. While these provide important protections in specific areas, they leave significant gaps in comprehensive consumer data privacy protection.

    To fill these gaps, California established crucial precedents through the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and its successor, the California Privacy Rights Act (CPRA). Other states are also now enacting comprehensive privacy laws, including Virginia’s Consumer Data Protection Act, Colorado Privacy Act, Connecticut’s Data Privacy Act, and Utah’s Consumer Privacy Act. Each provides residents with fundamental rights over their personal data while requiring businesses to implement stronger protection measures.

    Extra care for highly sensitive personal data

    Sensitive personal data represents the most valuable and vulnerable information about you—the details that, if compromised, could cause significant harm to your finances, safety, and peace of mind. Unlike basic contact information, sensitive data requires stronger legal protections and your extra vigilance because of its potential for misuse.

    Health Information

    Your health information deserves particular care because it reveals intimate details about your physical and mental well-being. HIPAA protections cover medical records, but health data collected by fitness apps, mental health platforms, or wellness websites may not receive the same legal safeguards.

    Biometric data

    Biometric data—your unique physical characteristics such as fingerprints, voice patterns, or facial features—can’t be changed if stolen, making this information particularly precious.

    Children’s Information

    Children’s data receives special attention under privacy laws because minors can’t meaningfully consent to data collection. The Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act requires explicit parental consent before companies can collect information from children under 13, while some state laws extend these protections to older teens.

    GDPR for the global services

    Meanwhile, global services such as Google, Facebook, or Netflix apply the Europe-established General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) laws worldwide to maintain consistent data practices.

    GDPR personal data includes obvious identifiers such as your name, email address, phone number, and Social Security number. But it also covers less obvious information, such as IP addresses, device IDs, location data, and even your online shopping habits or social media activity. Essentially, if data points can be combined to create a profile of you, they qualify as personal data under GDPR standards. This broader definition gives you stronger control over your information and has influenced many U.S. companies to offer the same rights to all users, not just those in the European Union.

    Whether a company follows GDPR, California’s privacy laws, or other frameworks, the core principle remains the same: you deserve transparency and control over your personal information.

    How can you celebrate Data Privacy Day?

    Your privacy rights are expanding, but exercising them effectively requires staying informed and taking proactive steps. As we celebrate Data Privacy Day, we recommend you participate by taking simple, practical steps to exercise your data privacy rights.

    Review your privacy settings regularly

    Start with the platforms and services you use most frequently. Look for the privacy or data protection section in your account settings and review the information being collected and shared.

    Submit data access requests

    Many major companies now provide online forms or dedicated email addresses for privacy requests. Take advantage of these to understand what data they have about you. Popular platforms such as Google, Facebook, and Amazon have streamlined processes for data downloads.

    Opt out of data sales

    Look for “Do Not Sell My Personal Information” links on websites, typically found in footers or privacy policy pages. You can also use opt-out tools such as the Global Privacy Control browser setting that automatically signals your opt-out preferences.

    Use data broker opt-out services

    Many data brokers now offer opt-out mechanisms, though the process can be time-consuming. Consider using privacy services that handle multiple opt-out requests on your behalf.

    Monitor your digital footprint

    Regularly search for your name and personal information online. Set up Google Alerts for your name and key personal details to stay informed about new appearances of your information. In addition, monitor your credit reports for unauthorized changes, and use identity monitoring services that watch for your personal information appearing in data breaches or on the dark web.

    Use reputable websites and tools

    When sharing sensitive information online, verify that websites use https:// in the address bar and read privacy policies before providing personal details. Only use well-established, privacy-focused health, financial, and communication platforms with a strong track record of privacy and data protection.

    Oversee your kids’ online activities

    For children’s data, maintaining active oversight will help you stay ahead of potential problems in their online activities. Review the apps and websites they use, understand what information these platforms collect, and use parental controls to limit data sharing. Teach your children about privacy and the risks of sharing personal information online.

    Everyday tips to maintain your privacy

    Protecting your personal data doesn’t have to feel like a giant, technical project. Most privacy wins come from small, repeatable habits that you can do in minutes to shrink your digital footprint, and use the internet on your terms.

    • Limit what you share online: Review your social media privacy settings and share only what’s necessary to reduce your exposure to identity thieves and the potential for your data to be used against you.
    • Review your location permissions: For location data, regularly review and delete location history from your devices and disable location sharing for apps that don’t need it.
    • Crumble that cookie: You can turn cookies off in your browser settings. This step may prevent you from using certain websites, but it is a step toward privacy.
    • Stay private while browsing: Use a virtual private network from a reputable, reliable company to keep your online activities private, especially when using unsecured Wi-Fi in public places such as cafes, airports, and libraries.

    Your personal information has value, so make sure you’re getting a fair return through services that respect your privacy.

    FAQs about data privacy

    What counts as personal data?

    Personal data includes any information that can directly or indirectly identify you. This covers obvious details such as your name, email, and Social Security number, but also extends to IP addresses, device identifiers, location data, browsing history, and even inferences about your preferences or behavior.

    How can I opt out of data sale and sharing?

    On company websites, look for “Do Not Sell My Personal Information” or “Your Privacy Choices” links, usually found in the footer. You can also use the Global Privacy Control browser signal to send opt-out requests automatically. Services such as DeleteMe or manual removal requests can help you reclaim control of your information from data brokers and multiple platforms.

    What should I do after a data breach?

    First, change passwords for affected accounts and enable two-factor authentication. Next, monitor your credit reports and bank statements for unusual activity. If Social Security numbers or financial data were involved, place a credit freeze with all three major credit bureaus. Sign up for identity monitoring services if offered by the breached company. Be sure to document everything and report identity theft to the FTC if you notice fraudulent activity.

    How do I spot dark consent patterns?

    Watch for manipulative design tricks that push you toward sharing more data. Red flags include pre-checked boxes for marketing emails, making privacy-friendly options harder to find or understand, using confusing language that hides the intent, or making it much easier to accept all cookies than to customize your preferences. Legitimate consent should be freely given, specific, informed, and easily withdrawn.

    What rights do I have over my personal data?

    Depending on your location, you may have the right to know what data companies collect about you, request copies of your data, correct inaccurate information, delete your data, and opt out of its sale or use for targeted advertising. Some laws also give you the right to data portability and protect you from discrimination for exercising these rights. Check if your state has comprehensive privacy laws or if you’re covered by GDPR.

    What essential resources can I read to stay informed?

    To stay current with your privacy rights and the evolving legal landscape, bookmark these authoritative resources:

    Final thoughts

    Data Privacy Day serves as an important annual reminder, but your commitment to privacy and data protection shouldn’t end when January 28th passes. The digital threats we face continue to evolve throughout the year, making ongoing vigilance essential to protect your personal details.

    Small, consistent habits can make a profound difference in your digital security. By regularly updating your passwords, enabling multi-factor authentication, reviewing privacy settings on your accounts, and staying informed about emerging threats, you create layers of protection that work together to safeguard your information.

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

    The post Celebrate Data Privacy Day by Applying These Best Practices appeared first on McAfee Blog.

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    Stop Fake Antivirus Popups on Your Mac

    By: McAfee — November 9th 2025 at 00:40
    antivirus app on laptop

    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.

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    Does PC Cleaning Improve Performance?

    By: Jasdev Dhaliwal — November 4th 2025 at 13:56

    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.

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      How To Tell If Your Smart TV Spying on You

      By: McAfee — November 3rd 2025 at 16:55

      From their original design as simple broadcast receivers, today’s televisions have evolved into powerful, internet-connected entertainment hubs. Combining traditional viewing with online capabilities, smart TVs provide instant access to streaming platforms, web browsing, voice assistants, and personalized recommendations. 

      As our TVs have grown smarter, however, they’ve also become gateways to new privacy and security challenges. In a chilling echo of George Orwell’s dystopian novel 1984, it’s possible that Big Brother, or in this case, Big Hacker, might be surveilling you through your own television.

      In 2013, evidence emerged that smart TVs can be just as vulnerable to hacking as home computers, following an investigation by security analysts Aaron Grattafiori and Josh Yavor at iSEC Partners. Working with smart TV manufacturers to address potential vulnerabilities, the analysts presented their findings at the Black Hat network security conference in Las Vegas. Their demonstration highlighted the concerning possibility of smart TVs not only physically surveilling you through the built-in camera but also prying deeper into your personal life by collecting data on your web searches, app usage, and preferences.

      Smart TV hacking entry points

      Smart TVs can be hacked in several ways, but the gateway that opens your smart TV to these attacks is the IP address, which links with internet-driven apps such as Facebook and YouTube, as well as video streaming services, microphones, and even internal cameras. Because smart TVs often run the same code as computers and smartphones, such as JavaScript or HTML5, they are also susceptible to malware and spyware attacks. These are some of the ways your device can be hacked:

      • Outdated firmware: When you don’t regularly update your TV’s software, you leave known security holes wide open for cybercriminals to enter. These updates often include security patches, but many users ignore update notifications.
      • Unsecure downloads or sideloads: When you download apps from unofficial sources or use older apps with poor security, you invite malware into your living room. Additionally, weak Wi-Fi settings at home create an opening for hackers to access not just your TV but your entire network.
      • Weak login habits: Using the may include background services you are unaware of, which allow criminals to access your smart TV once they’ve compromised your other accounts. Smart TVs could even have background services you might not know about, creating additional attack points.
      • Compromised physical connections: Infected HDMI devices or USB drives could introduce malware into your system. Once hackers gain access to your smart TV, they can use it to move through your home network and other connected devices.

      Spying beyond physical surveillance

      Once a hacker has compromised your smart TV, they can spy on you through several built-in technologies that collect data on your viewing habits, conversations, and online activities.

      • Automatic Content Recognition (ACR): This is a common spying method that analyzes audio or video snippets from your content. It then packages and sells this data to advertisers, who use it to create profiles of your entertainment preferences for customized advertising. 
      • Voice assistants and listening microphones: Many smart TVs include voice control features that activate when you say specific wake words. These microphones can capture private conversations, even when the TV is “off” and on standby mode. This data could be processed by third-party voice recognition services, creating potential eavesdropping risks.
      • Built-in or plug-in cameras: These enable video calling and gesture control features, but they also create opportunities for unauthorized surveillance and privacy vulnerabilities. Smart TVs with cameras could be accessed by hackers or malicious software.
      • App-level tracking and advertising IDs: Similar to smartphone apps, smart TV apps also collect data on your usage and preferences through unique advertising identifiers, which build comprehensive profiles for targeted marketing. Your Netflix viewing habits might influence ads you see on YouTube or other platforms.
      • Data sharing with third parties: TV manufacturers often share collected data with advertising networks, content providers, and data brokers to create extensive digital profiles. This information can include viewing schedules, app usage, voice recordings, and even household demographic insights.
      • Privacy settings: Most smart TVs offer settings to disable ACR, limit voice recording, and opt out of personalized advertising. Look for “Privacy,” “Viewing Data,” or “Interest-Based Advertising” options in your TV’s settings menu. However, these settings may reset after software updates.
      • Network behaviors: Your smart TV communicates with various servers, sending viewing data, software telemetry, and usage statistics even when you’re not actively using smart features. Router logs often show smart TVs making hundreds of network connections per day to advertising and analytics services.

      The key to managing these privacy risks is understanding what data your TV collects and taking control through privacy settings, network restrictions, and informed usage decisions. 

      Types of data that smart TVs collect

      • Viewing history, content preferences, and navigation patterns: Your smart TV tracks what shows, movies, and channels you watch, how long you view them, and when you pause or skip content. This data helps TV manufacturers and streaming app providers understand your entertainment preferences and suggest personalized content.
      • Device identifiers and technical data: Your TV collects unique device identifiers, IP addresses, Wi-Fi network information, and technical specifications. In turn, manufacturers use this data for device management, software updates, and to link your viewing activity across different sessions and devices.
      • Advertising IDs and marketing data: Smart TVs generate unique advertising identifiers that track your activity for targeted advertising. Third-party advertisers and data brokers use these IDs to build detailed profiles for marketing campaigns and to measure ad effectiveness across different platforms.
      • Voice recordings and search queries: Your voice commands or searches are recorded and processed by the manufacturer’s servers or third-party speech-recognition services to improve voice-recognition accuracy and deliver search results.
      • Geolocation and network information: Your smart TV can determine your approximate location through your IP address and Wi-Fi network details. This geographic data helps content providers offer region-specific programming and advertising.
      • Diagnostic and performance data: Smart TVs collect technical performance metrics, error logs, and usage statistics to help manufacturers and software partners identify issues, improve software performance, and develop new features. 

      Take control of your data

      Your smart TV data typically flows to multiple parties. It starts with the device manufacturer for product improvements, then to streaming app providers for content recommendations, on to advertising networks for targeted marketing, and analytics companies for usage insights. Recent regulatory guidance emphasizes that you should have clear visibility into these data-sharing relationships through your TV’s privacy policy.

      You can limit data collection by disabling Automatic Content Recognition (ACR) in your TV’s privacy settings, turning off personalized advertising, and regularly reviewing app permissions. Consumer protection agencies require smart TV manufacturers to provide opt-out mechanisms for advertising personalization and data sharing with third parties.

      Stop the spying

      Fortunately, you can significantly reduce your smart TV risks with some simple preventive measures:

      1. Check your TV’s privacy and ACR settings: Navigate to your smart TV’s settings menu and look for privacy, data collection, or “Automatic Content Recognition” (ACR) options, and disable or limit that function to prevent the tracking of your viewing behaviors and preferences. 
      2. Review consent prompts after software updates. When you see pop-ups asking for consent to new terms, take a moment to read what you’re agreeing to. You can often decline optional data sharing while keeping essential functionality. 
      3. Monitor your ad personalization settings: Look for advertising or marketing preferences in your settings menu, and opt out of personalized advertising to reduce the data collected about your viewing patterns.
      4. Audit app permissions and microphone access: Smart TV apps may request access to features such as your microphone, camera, or network information. Review which apps have these permissions. Voice assistants and video calling apps may need microphone access, but streaming apps typically don’t require these sensitive permissions.
      5. Monitor network activity: Check your router’s device list to see if your smart TV is unusually chatty with unknown servers. Many modern routers also offer parental controls or privacy features that can limit your TV’s internet access to only essential functions.
      6. Perform security audits on major platforms: Roku, Samsung Tizen, LG webOS, and Android TV each offer basic privacy controls in their main settings. Look for “Privacy,” “Ads,” “Data Collection,” or “Viewing Information” to take control regardless of your TV model.
      7. Check for physical indicators and hardware controls: Many newer smart TV models don’t include cameras, but if yours does, you’ll often find a physical privacy shutter or the ability to disable it in settings. For voice features, look for microphone mute buttons on your remote or TV itself.
      8. Stay updated: Ensure your apps are updated regularly to maintain the security of your TV and its apps. The digital world is full of bugs waiting for a chance to invade your device, so don’t let outdated apps provide them the perfect entry point. 
      9. Use social media sparingly: Social media sites are notorious hunting grounds for identity thieves. Restrict the use of these apps to your computer, smartphone, or tablet, and ensure they have comprehensive security protection to guard your devices, identity, and data.

      Standby versus fully off

      Most smart TVs don’t fully turn off when you press the power button; they enter standby mode to enable quick startup. In this state, certain components may remain active and continue collecting data. It might maintain network connectivity to receive software updates, keep microphones and voice assistants ready to respond to wake words, or continue ACR that tracks your viewing habits.

      To truly disconnect your TV from potential monitoring, you have several options:

      1. Look for a physical mute switch on your remote or TV for the microphone. This provides a hardware-level disconnect that software can’t override.
      2. You can unplug your TV entirely when not in use or connect it to a power strip that you can easily switch off to cut all power.
      3. For a more permanent solution, dive into your TV’s privacy settings to disable ACR tracking, turn off voice activation features, and restrict background data collection. 
      4. You can also disconnect your TV from Wi-Fi entirely if you primarily use external streaming devices, which gives you more control over what data gets shared.

      FAQs about Smart TVs

      Do all smart TVs have cameras?

      It depends on your specific smart TV model and its manufacturing date. Most modern smart TVs manufactured after 2022 do not include built-in cameras. Major manufacturers such as Samsung, LG, Sony, and TCL have largely moved away from integrating cameras directly into their television sets due to privacy concerns and limited consumer adoption. 

      Some premium models and older smart TVs from 2018-2021 may still feature built-in cameras designed typically used for:

      • Video calling: Apps such as Zoom or Google Meet allow you to make calls from your TV
      • Gesture control: Hand movements enable you to navigate menus and control functions 
      • Facial recognition: Based on who is watching, smart TVs can personalize content recommendations
      • Voice assistant integration: Some cameras work with microphones to enhance smart assistant features

      If your smart TV does have a camera, you still have control, as most smart TVs with cameras include physical privacy shutters, software controls to disable the camera, or the option to cover the lens. For external USB cameras, simply unplugging it ensures that no one can see you through the smart TV.

      How do I know if my smart TV has a camera?

      To determine if your smart TV has a camera, check the following:

      1. The physical TV: Check the top, bottom, and side edges of your TV screen for a small circular lens, typically about the size of a coin. Built-in cameras are typically small lenses located on the top bezel or may retract into the frame. 
      2. Quick detection test: In a dimly lit room, shine a flashlight across your TV’s bezel while looking for reflective surfaces. Camera lenses will reflect light differently than the surrounding plastic, appearing as small, glassy circles that catch and reflect the light beam.
      3. Camera shutter or privacy cover: TVs with built-in cameras often include a sliding privacy shutter or removable cover. Look for a small plastic piece that can slide over the camera lens area, or a hinged cover that flips up and down.
      4. User manual: Your manual will clearly list the camera functionality if it is present. You can also find detailed specs on the product packaging. Look for terms such as “built-in camera,” “video calling,” or “gesture control” in the feature list.
      5. Manufacturer’s website: Visit your TV manufacturer’s official support page and enter your exact model number. The detailed product specifications should confirm whether your model includes camera hardware.
      6. Camera-related settings: Go to your smart TV’s main settings menu and look for sections labeled “Camera,” “Privacy,” “Microphone,” or “Gesture Control.” If these options exist, your TV likely has camera capability. Many TV models from 2023 include dedicated privacy toggles that let you fully disable camera functions.

      If you discover your smart TV has a camera, you can take control of your privacy by disabling it in your TV’s settings, covering it with tape when not in use, or using any built-in privacy shutters.

      How can I disable or manage my smart TV camera?

      Aside from the precautions listed above, there are other ways you can disable your smart TV’s camera:

      • Privacy settings: Navigate to your smart TV’s Settings menu, then look for “Privacy,” “Security,” or “Camera” options. Most modern TVs group these controls together to limit the data your device collects and shares.
      • Specific apps: Review which apps have camera permissions by going to Settings > Apps > [App Name] > Permissions. Turn off camera access for apps that don’t need it, like streaming services or games. Video calling apps will need camera access to function properly.
      • Gesture and voice control: Disable motion-sensing and voice-recognition features in your TV’s accessibility or interaction settings, as these features often require the camera and microphone to be active.
      • System update resets: Smart TV updates can sometimes reset your privacy settings to defaults. After each update, take a few minutes to verify your camera and microphone settings remain off as you configured them.
      • Network-level protection: For tech-savvy users, consider setting up router-level controls to monitor or restrict your smart TV’s internet connections. Some routers allow you to block specific domains or limit device communication, adding another layer of control over what data your TV can share.
      • Automatic security updates: Keep your smart TV’s firmware up to date by enabling automatic updates. Manufacturers regularly release security patches that address vulnerabilities to protect you from potential threats.
      • Dedicated guest network: Consider connecting your smart TV to a separate Wi-Fi network from your main devices. This limits potential access to other connected devices in your home if your TV’s security is ever compromised.

      Final thoughts

      If the thought of your living room turning into a hacker’s surveillance paradise sends a chill down your spine, you’re not alone. Fortunately, you can take some protective measures that keep your smart TV safe.

      One of the best ways to protect yourself is to stay informed about the latest developments in smart TV security. Attend webinars, read articles, and follow experts in the field to stay current with the latest security threats and fixes. 

      Just as importantly, small but effective digital habits will also fortify your smart TV security: keep your TV’s firmware updated, stick to official app stores, secure your home Wi-Fi with strong encryption, use unique passwords for your devices, limit the use of social media and messaging apps on your TV, and be cautious about what you plug into your TV’s ports. 

      By following these recommendations, you can continue to relax in your living room and enjoy your digital entertainment experience without compromising your privacy and security.

      The post How To Tell If Your Smart TV Spying on You appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      This Year in Scams: A 2025 Retrospective, and a Look Ahead at 2026

      By: McAfee — December 19th 2025 at 13:00
      The Top Scams of 2025

      They came by phone, by text, by email, and they even weaseled their way into people’s love lives—an entire host of scams that we covered here in our blogs throughout the year.

      Today, we look back, picking five noteworthy scams that firmly established new trends, along with one in particular that gives us a hint at the face of scams to come.

      Let’s start it off with one scam that pinged plenty of phones over the spring and summer: those toll road texts.

      1 – The Texts That Jammed Everyone’s Phones: The Toll Road Scam

      It was the hot new scam of 2025 that increased by 900% in one year: the toll road scam.

      There’s a good chance you got a few of these this year,scam texts that say you have an unpaid tab for tolls and that you need to pay right away. And as always, they come with a handy link where you can pay up and avoid that threat of a “late fee.”

       

      Of course, links like those took people to phishing sites where people gave scammers their payment info, which led to fraudulent charges on their cards. In some instances, the scammers took it a step further by asking for driver’s license and Social Security numbers, key pieces of info for big-time identity theft.

      Who knows what the hot new text scam for 2026 will be, yet here are several ways you can stop text scams in their tracks, no matter what form they take:

      How Can I Stop Text Scams?

      Don’t click on any links in unexpected texts (or respond to them, either). Scammers want you to react quickly, but it’s best to stop and check it out.

      Check to see if the text is legit. Reach out to the company that apparently contacted you using a phone number or website you know is real—not the info from the text.

      Get our Scam Detector. It automatically detects scams by scanning URLs in your text messages. If you accidentally tap or click? Don’t worry, it blocks risky sites if you follow a suspicious link.

      2 – Romancing the Bot: AI Chatbots and Images Finagle Their Way Into Romance Scams

      It started with a DM. And a few months later, it cost her $1,200.

      Earlier this year, we brought you the story of 25-year-old computer programmer Maggie K. who fell for a romance scam on Instagram. Her story played out like so many. When she and her online boyfriend finally agreed to meet in person, he claimed he missed his flight and needed money to rebook. Desperate to finally see him, she sent the money and never heard from him again.

      But here’s the twist—he wasn’t real in the first place.

      When she reported the scam to police, they determined his images were all made with AI. In Maggie’s words, “That was the scariest part—I had trusted someone who never even existed.”

      Maggie isn’t alone. Our own research earlier this year revealed that more than half (52%) of people have been scammed out of money or pressured to send money or gifts by someone they met online.

      Moreover, we found that scammers have fueled those figures with the use of AI. Of people we surveyed, more than 1 in 4 (26%) said they—or someone they know—have been approached by an AI chatbot posing as a real person on a dating app or social media.

      We expect this trend will only continue, as AI tools make it easier and more efficient to pull off romance scams on an increasingly larger scale.

      Even so, the guidelines for avoiding romance scams remain the same:

      • Never send money to someone you’ve never met in person.
      • Things move too fast, too soon—like when the other person starts talking about love almost right away.
      • They say they live far away and can’t meet in person because they live abroad, all part of a scammers story that they’re there for charity or military service.
      • Look out for stories of urgent financial need, such as sudden emergencies or requests for help with travel expenses to meet you.
      • Also watch out for people who ask for payment in gift cards, crypto, wire transfers, or other forms of payment that are tough to recover. That’s a sign of a scam.

      3 – Paying to Get Paid: The New Job Scam That Raked in Millions

      The job offer sounds simple enough … go online, review products, like videos, or do otherwise simple tasks and get paid doing it—until it’s time to get paid.

      It’s a new breed of job scam that took root this spring, one where victims found themselves “paying to get paid.”

      The FTC dubbed these scams as “gamified job scams” or “task scams.” Given the way these scams work, the naming fits.

      It starts with a text or direct message from a “recruiter” offering work with the promise of making good money by “liking” or “rating” sets of videos or product images in an app, all with the vague purpose of “product optimization.” With each click, you earn a “commission” and see your “earnings” rack up in the app. You might even get a payout, somewhere between $5 and $20, just to earn your trust.

      Then comes the hook.

      Like a video game, the scammer sweetens the deal by saying the next batch of work can “level up” your earnings. But if you want to claim your “earnings” and book more work, you need to pay up. So you make the deposit, complete the task set, and when you try to get your pay the scammer and your money are gone. It was all fake.

      This scam and others like it fall right in line with McAfee data that uncovered a spike in job-related scams of 1,000% between May and July,which undoubtedly built on 2024’s record-setting job scam losses of $501 million.

      Whatever form they take, here’s how you can avoid job scams:

      Step one—ignore job offers over text and social media

      A proper recruiter will reach out to you by email or via a job networking site. Moreover, per the FTC, any job that pays you to “like” or “rate” content is against the law. That alone says it’s a scam.

      Step two—look up the company

      In the case of job offers in general, look up the company. Check out their background and see if it matches up with the job they’re pitching. In the U.S., The Better Business Bureau (BBB) offers a list of businesses you can search.

      Step three—never pay to start a job.

      Any case where you’re asked to pay to up front, with any form of payment, refuse, whether that’s for “training,” “equipment,” or more work. It’s a sign of a scam.

      4 – Seeing is Believing is Out the Window: The Al Roker Deepfake Scam

      Prince Harry, Taylor Swift, and now the Today show’s Al Roker, too, they’ve all found themselves as the AI-generated spokesperson for deepfake scams.

      In the past, a deepfake Prince Harry pushed bogus investments, while another deepfake of Taylor Swift hawked a phony cookware deal. Then, this spring, a deepfake of Al Roker used his image and voice to promote a bogus hypertension cure—claiming, falsely, that he had suffered “a couple of heart attacks.”

       

      The fabricated clip appeared on Facebook, which appeared convincing enough to fool plenty of people, including some of Roker’s own friends. “I’ve had some celebrity friends call because their parents got taken in by it,” said Roker.

      While Meta quickly removed the video from Facebook after being contacted by TODAY, the damage was done. The incident highlights a growing concern in the digital age: how easy it is to create—and believe—convincing deepfakes.

      Roker put it plainly, “We used to say, ‘Seeing is believing.’ Well, that’s kind of out the window now.”

      In all, this stands as a good reminder to be skeptical of celebrity endorsements on social media. If public figure fronts an apparent deal for an investment, cookware, or a hypertension “cure” in your feed, think twice. And better yet, let our Scam Detector help you spot what’s real and what’s fake out there.

      5 – September 2025: The First Agentic AI Attack Spotted in The Wild

      And to close things out, a look at some recent news, which also serves as a look ahead.

      Last September, researchers spotted something unseen before:a cyberattack almost entirely run by agentic AI.

      What is Agentic AI?

      Definition: Artificial intelligence systems that can independently plan, make decisions, and work toward specific goals with minimal human intervention; in this way, it executes complex tasks by adapting to new info and situations on its own.

      Reported by AI researcher Anthropic, a Chinese state-sponsored group allegedly used the company’s Claude Code agent to automate most of an espionage campaign across nearly thirty organizations. Attackers allegedly bypassed guardrails that typically prevent such malicious use with jailbreaking techniques, which broke down their attacks into small, seemingly innocent tasks. That way, Claude orchestrated a large-scale attack it wouldn’t otherwise execute.

      Once operational, the agent performed reconnaissance, wrote exploit code, harvested credentials, identified high-value databases, created backdoors, and generated documentation of the intrusion. By Anthropic’s estimate, they completed 80–90% of the work without any human involvement.

      According to Anthropic: “At the peak of its attack, the AI made thousands of requests, often multiple per second—an attack speed that would have been, for human hackers, simply impossible to match.”

      We knew this moment was coming, and now the time has arrived: what once took weeks of human effort to execute a coordinated attack now boils down to minutes as agentic AI does the work on someone’s behalf.

      In 2026, we can expect to see more attacks led by agentic AI, along with AI-led scams as well, which raises an important question that Anthropic answers head-on:

      If AI models can be misused for cyberattacks at this scale, why continue to develop and release them? The answer is that the very abilities that allow Claude to be used in these attacks also make it crucial for cyber defense. When sophisticated cyberattacks inevitably occur, our goal is for Claude—into which we’ve built strong safeguards—to assist cybersecurity professionals to detect, disrupt, and prepare for future versions of the attack.

      That gets to the heart of security online: it’s an ever-evolving game. As new technologies arise, those who protect and those who harm one-up each other in a cycle of innovation and exploits. As we’re on the side of innovation here, you can be sure we’ll continue to roll out protections that keep you safer out there. Even as AI changes the game, our commitment remains the same.

      Happy Holidays!

      We’re taking a little holiday break here and we’ll be back with our weekly roundups again in 2026. Looking forward to catching up with you then and helping you stay safer in the new year.

      The post This Year in Scams: A 2025 Retrospective, and a Look Ahead at 2026 appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      How To Spot Health Insurance Scams This Open Enrollment Season

      By: McAfee — December 17th 2025 at 13:00

      If you’re in the market for insurance right now, keep an eye out for scammers in the mix. They’re out in full force once again this open enrollment season.

      As people across the U.S. sign up for, renew, or change their health insurance plans, scammers want to cash in as people rush to get their coverage set. And scammers have several factors working in their favor.

      For starters, many people find the insurance marketplace confusing, frustrating, and even intimidating, all feelings that scammers can take advantage of. Moreover, concerns about getting the right level of coverage at an affordable price also play into the hands of scammers.

      Amidst all this uncertainty and time pressure, health insurance scams crop up online. Whether under the guise of helping people navigate the complex landscape or by offering seemingly low-cost quotes, scammers prey on insurance seekers by stealing their personal information, Social Security numbers, and money.

      According to the FBI, health insurance scams cost families millions each year. In some cases, the costs are up front. People pay for fraudulent insurance and have their personal info stolen. And for many, the follow-on costs are far worse, where victims go in for emergency care and find that their treatment isn’t covered—leaving them with a hefty bill.

      Like so many of the scams we cover here in our blogs, you can spot health insurance scams relatively quickly once you get to know their ins and outs.

      What Kind Of Health Insurance Scams Are Out There Right Now?

      Here’s how some of those scams can play out.

      The Phishing Strategy

      Some are “one and done scams” where the scammer promises a policy or service and then disappears after stealing money and personal info—much like an online shopping scam. It’s a quick and dirty hit where scammers quickly get what they want by reaching victims the usual ways, such as through texts, emails, paid search results, and social media. In the end, victims end up on a phishing site where they think they’re locking in a good deal but handing over their info to scammers instead.

      The Long Con

      Other scams play a long con game, milking victims for thousands and thousands of dollars over time. The following complaint lodged by one victim in Washington state provides a typical example:

      A man purchased a plan to cover himself, his wife, and his two children, only to learn there was no coverage. He was sold a second policy, with the same result, and offered a refund if he purchased a third policy. When he filed a complaint, his family still had no coverage, and he was seeking a refund for more than $20,000 and reimbursement for $55,000 in treatments and prescriptions he’d paid out of pocket.

      Scams like these are known as ghost broker scams where scammers pose as insurance brokers who take insurance premiums and pocket the money, leaving victims thinking they have coverage when they don’t. In some cases, scammers initially apply for a genuine policy with a legitimate carrier, only to cancel it later, while still taking premiums from the victim as their “broker.” Many victims only find out that they got scammed when they attempt to file a claim.

      The “Fake” Cancellation Scam

      Another type of scam comes in the form of policy cancellation scams. These work like any number of other account-based scams, where a scammer pretends to be a customer service rep at a bank, utility, or credit card company. In the insurance version of it, scammers email, text, or call with some bad news—the person’s policy is about to get cancelled. Yet not to worry, the victim can keep the policy active they hand over some personal and financial info. It’s just one more way that scammers use urgency and fear to steal to commit identity theft and fraud.

      What Are The Signs Of A Health Insurance Scam?

      As said, health insurance scams become relatively easy to spot once you know the tricks that scammers use. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) offers up its list of the ones they typically use the most:

      1)Someone says they’re from the government and need money or your personal info.Government agencies don’t call people out of the blue to ask them for money or personal info. No one from the government will ask you to verify your Social Security, bank account, or credit card number, and they won’t ask you to wire money or pay by gift card or cryptocurrency.

      If you have a question about Health Insurance Marketplace®, contact the government directly at: HealthCare.gov or 1-800-318-2596

      2) Someone tries to sell you a medical discount plan. Legitimate medical discount plans differ from health insurance. They supplement it. In that way, they don’t pay for any of your medical expenses. Rather, they’re membership programs where you pay a recurring fee for access to a network of providers who offer their services at pre-negotiated, reduced rates. The FTC strongly advises thorough research before participating in one, as some take people’s money and offer very little in return. Call your caregiver and see if they really participate in the program and in what way. And always review the details of any medical discount plan in writing before you sign up.

      3) Someone wants your sensitive personal info in exchange for a price quote. The Affordable Care Act’s (ACA’s) official government site is HealthCare.gov. It lets you compare prices on health insurance plans, check your eligibility for healthcare subsidies, and begin enrollment. But HealthCare.gov will only ask for your monthly income and your age to give you a price quote. Never enter personal financial info like your Social Security number, bank account, or credit card number to get a quote for health insurance.

      4) Someone wants money to help you navigate the Health Insurance Marketplace. The people who offer legitimate help with the Health Insurance Marketplace (sometimes called Navigators or Assisters) are not allowed to charge you and won’t ask you for personal or financial info. If they ask for money, it’s a scam. Go to HealthCare.govand click “Find Local Help” to learn more.

      How to Avoid Health Insurance Scams

      1)For health insurance, visit a trusted source like HealthCare.gov or your state marketplace. Doing so helps guarantee that you’ll get the kind of fully compliant coverage you want.

      2) Make sure the insurance covers you in your state. Not every insurer is licensed to operate in your state. Double-check that the one you’re dealing with is. A good place to start is to visit the site for your state’s insurance commission. It should have resources that let you look up the insurance companies, agents, and brokers in your state.

      3) For any insurance, research the company offering it. Run a search with the company name and add “scam” or “fraud” to it. See if any relevant news or complaints show up. And if the plan you’re being offered sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

      4) Watch out for high-pressure sales. Don’t pay anything up front and be cautious if a company is forcing you to make quick decisions.

      5) Guard your personal info. Never share your personal info, account details, or Social Security number over text or email. Make sure you’re really working with a legitimate company and that you submit any info through a secure submissions process.

      6) Block bad links to phishing sites. Many insurance scams rely on phishing sites to steal personal info. A  combination of our Web Protection and Scam Detector can steer you clear of them. They’ll alert you if a link might take you to one. It’ll also block those sites if you accidentally tap or click on a bad link.

      7) Monitor your identity and credit. In some health insurance scams, your personal info winds up in wrong hands, which can lead to identity fraud and theft. And the problem is that you only find out once the damage is done. Actively monitoring your identity and credit can spot a problem before it becomes an even bigger one. You can take care of both easily with our identity monitoring and credit monitoring.

      Additionally, our identity theft coverage can help if the unexpected happens with up to $2 million in identity theft coverage and identity restoration support if determined you’re a victim of identity theft.​

      You’ll find these protections and more in McAfee+.

      The post How To Spot Health Insurance Scams This Open Enrollment Season appeared first on McAfee Blog.

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      Why “Strong Passwords” Aren’t Enough Anymore—and What to Do Instead

      By: McAfee — December 16th 2025 at 18:03

      Imagine a day where you didn’t have to juggle passwords.

      No more sticky notes. No more notebooks with dozens of passwords scribbled in, crossed out, and scribbled in again. No more forgetting and resetting. No more typing them in all the time.

      And even better, imagine secure accounts, likely even more secure than you could keep them on your own.

      That’s the power of a password manager in your life.

      A password manager does the work of creating strong, unique passwords for each and every one of your accounts. And considering the hundred or so accounts you have, that’s something that would take plenty of time if you did all that work on your own.

      In all, a password manager can turn the pain of juggling passwords into a real comfort.

      What’s a bad password?

      Before we get into how a password manager can make your life easier while making your accounts more secure, let’s look at what makes up a bad password. Here are a few examples:

      Obvious passwords: Password-cracking programs start by entering a list of common (and arguably lazy) passwords. These may include the simple “password” or “1234567”. Others include common keyboard paths like “qwerty.” Even longer keyboard paths like “qwertyuiop” are well known to hackers and their tools as well. 

      Dictionary words: Hacking tools also look for common dictionary words strung together, which helps them crack longer passwords in chunks. The same goes for passwords that contain the name of the app or service in them. These are “no brainer” words found in passwords that make passwords even easier to crack.

      Repeated passwords: You may think you have such an unbreakable password that you want to use it for all your accounts. However, this means that if hackers compromise one of your accounts, all your other accounts are vulnerable. This is a favorite tactic of hackers. They’ll target less secure accounts and services and then attempt to re-use those credentials on more secure services like online bank and credit card companies. 

      Personal information passwords: Passwords that include your birthday, dog’s name, or nickname leave you open to attack. While they’re easy for you to remember, they’re also easy for a hacker to discover—such as with a quick trip to your social media profile, particularly if it is not set to private.

      If any of the above sounds familiar, you’ll want to replace any of your bad passwords with strong ones.

      What’s a good password?

      We can point to three things that make up a strong password, which makes it difficult to hack.

      Your password is:

      Long: A longer password is potentially a stronger password when it comes to a “brute force” attack, where a hacker uses an automated trial-and-error system to break it. For example, an eight-character password using uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols can get hacked in minutes. Kick it up to 16 characters and it becomes incredibly more difficult to break—provided it doesn’t rely on common words or phrases. McAfee can help you generate a strong password, for stronger security with our random password generator.

      Complex: To increase the security of your password, it should have a combination of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, symbols, and numbers like mentioned above.

      Unique: Every one of your accounts should have its own password.

      Now, apply this to the hundred or so accounts you keep and creating strong passwords for all of them really does call for a lot of work.

      Should I use a password manager?

      Given its ease of use and the big security boost it gives you and all your accounts, the answer is yes.

      A password manager does the work of creating strong, unique passwords for your accounts. These will take the form of a string of random numbers, letters, and characters. They won’t be memorable, but the manager does the memorizing for you. You only need to remember a single password to access the tools of your manager.

      A strong password manager also stores your passwords securely. Our password manager protects your passwords by scrambling them with AES-256, one of the strongest encryption algorithms available. Only you can decrypt and access your info with the factors you choose. Additionally, our password manager uses multi-factor authentication (MFA), so you’ll be verified by at least two factors before being signed in.

      Aside from the comfort of convenience a password manager can give you, it gives you another level of assurance—extra protection in an age of data breaches, because you’ll have unique passwords where one compromise won’t lead to others.

      And whether or not you go with a password manager to create those strong and unique passwords, make sure you use MFA on every account that offers it. MFA offers another layer of protection by adding another factor into the login process, such as something you own like a text to your phone or notification to an authentication app. That way if a hacker has your password, they’ll still be locked out of your account because they lack that MFA code.

      One more smart move: delete your old accounts

      In some cases, you really don’t need some of your old accounts and the passwords that come along with them. Maybe they’re old and unused. Or maybe they were for a one-time purchase at an online store you won’t visit again. Deleting these accounts is a smart move because they’re yet more places where your personal info is stored—and subject to a data breach.

      Our Online Account Cleanup can help, which you can find in all our McAfee+ plans. It scans for accounts in your name, gives you a full list, and shows you which types of accounts might be riskier than others. From there you can decide which ones you want to delete, along with the personal info linked to them. In our McAfee+ Ultimate plans, you get full-service Online Account Cleanup, which sends the data deletion requests for you.

      Between this and a password manager, you’ll have one less thing to juggle—your passwords, and one less thing to worry about—if they’re secure from hackers.

      The post Why “Strong Passwords” Aren’t Enough Anymore—and What to Do Instead appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      This Week in Scams: Petco Breach Warning, and Watch Out for Fake Federal Calls

      By: McAfee — December 12th 2025 at 18:03
      A dog in a sweater on a walk.

      Pets, poisoned AI search results, and a phone call that sounds like it’s coming straight from the federal government, this week’s scams don’t have much in common except one thing: they’re getting harder to spot.

      In today’s edition of This Week in Scams, we’re breaking down the biggest security lapses and the tactics scammers used to exploit them, and what you can do to stay ahead of the latest threats.

      Two data security lapses discovered at Petco in one week put pet parents at risk

      If you’re a Petco customer, you’ll want to know about not one but two data security lapses in the past week.

      First, as reported by TechCrunch on Monday, Petco followed Texas data privacy laws by filing a data breach with the attorney general’s office. In that filing, Petco reported that the affected data included names, Social Security numbers, and driver’s license numbers. Further info including account numbers, credit and debit card numbers, and dates of birth were also mentioned in the filing.

      Also according to Techcrunch, the company filed similar notices in California and Massachusetts.

      To date, Petco has not made a comment about the size of the breach and the number of people affected.

      Different states have different policies for reporting data breaches. In some cases, that helps us put a figure to the size of the breach, as some states require companies to disclose the total number of people caught up in the breach. That’s not the case here, so the full scope of the attack remains in question, at least for right now.

      As of Thursday, we know Petco reported that 329 Texans were affected along with seven Massachusetts residents, per the respective reports filed. California’s report does not contain the number of Californians affected, yet laws in that state require businesses to report breaches that affect 500 or more people, so at least 500 people were affected there.

      Below you can see the form letter Petco sent to affected Californians in accordance with California’s data privacy laws:

      Copy of the form letter posted on the California Attorney General’s Website
      Copy of the form letter posted on the California Attorney General’s Website

       

      In it, you can see that Petco discovered that “a setting within one of our software applications … inadvertently allowed certain files to become accessible online.” Further, Petco said that it “immediately took steps to correct the issue and to remove the files from further online access,” and that it “corrected” the setting and implemented unspecified “additional security measures.”

      So while no foul play appears to have been behind the breach, it’s still no less risky and concerning for Petco’s customers. We’ll cover what you can do about that in a moment after we cover yet another data issue at Petco through its Vetco clinics.

      Also within the same timeframe, yet more research and reporting from Techcrunch uncovered a second security lapse that exposed personal info online. From their article:

      “TechCrunch identified a vulnerability in how Vetco’s website generates copies of PDF documents for its customers.

      “Vetco’s customer portal, located at petpass.com, allows customers to log in and obtain veterinary records and other documents relating to their pet’s care. But TechCrunch found that the PDF generating page on Vetco’s website was public and not protected with a password.

      “As such, it was possible for anyone on the internet to access sensitive customer files directly from Vetco’s servers by modifying the web address to input a customer’s unique identification number. Vetco customer numbers are sequential, which means one could access other customers’ data simply by changing a customer number by one or two digits.”

      What to do if you think you had info stolen in the Petco breach

      With the size and reach of the Petco breach still unknown, and the impact of the Vetco security lapse also unknown, we advise caution for all Petco customers. At minimum, monitor transactions and keep an eye on your credit report for any suspicious activity. And it’s always a good time to update a weak password.

      For those who received a notification, we advise the following:

      Check your credit, consider a security freeze, and get ID theft protection. You can get all three working for you with McAfee+ Advanced or McAfee+ Ultimate.

      Monitor transactions across your accounts, also available in McAfee+ Advanced and Ultimate.

      Keep an eye out for phishing attacks. Use our Scam Detector to spot any follow-on attacks.

      Update your passwords. Strong and unique passwords are best. Our password manager can help you create and store them securely.

      And use two-factor authentication on all your accounts. Enabling two-factor authentication provides an added layer of security.

      Image Credit: Federal Register
      Image Credit: Federal Register

       

      What to do if your Social Security number was breached.

      If you think your Social Security number was caught up in the breach, act quickly.

      1. First, contact one of the three credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion) and place a fraud alert on your credit report.
      2. That will cover all three bureaus and make it harder for someone to open new accounts in your name. You can also quickly freeze your credit altogether with McAfee+ Ultimate.
      3. Also notify the Social Security Administration (SSA) along with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and file a police report immediately if you believe your number is being misused.

      The call center number that connects you to … scammers?

      You might want to be careful when searching for customer service numbers while in AI mode. Or with an AI search engine. It could connect you to a scammer.

      From The Times comes reports of scammers manipulating the AI in platforms like Google and Perplexity so that their search results return scam numbers instead of a proper customer service numbers for, say, British Airways.

      How do they manipulate those results? By spamming the internet with false info that gets picked up and then amplified by AI.

      “[S]cammers have started seeding fake call center numbers on the web so the AI is tricked into thinking it is genuine …

      “Criminals have set up YouTube channels with videos claiming to help with customer support, which are packed with airline brand names and scam numbers designed to be scraped and reused by the AI.

      “Bot-generated reviews on Yelp or video descriptions on YouTube are filled with fraudulent numbers as are airline and travel web forums.”

      And with these tactics, scammers could poison the results for just about any organization, business, or brand. Not just airlines. Per The Times, “The scammers have also hijacked government sites, university domains, and even fitness sites to place scam numbers, which fools the AI into thinking they are genuine.”

      This reveals a current limitation with many AI platforms. Largely they can’t distinguish when people deliberately feed them bad info, as seen in the case here.

      Yet even as this attack is new, our advice remains the same: any time you want to ring up a customer service line, get the number directly from the company’s official website. Not from AI search and not by clicking a paid search result that shows up first (scammers can poison them too).

      Is that a call from an FTC “agent?” If so, it’s a scam.

      Are you under investigation for money laundering? Of course not. But this scam wants you to think so—and to pay up.

      On Tuesday, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) issued a consumer alert warning that people are reporting getting unexpected calls from someone saying they’re “FTC agent” John Krebs. Apparently “Agent Krebs” is telling people that they’re under investigation for money laundering—and that a deposit to a Bitcoin ATM can resolve the matter.

      Of course, it’s a scam.

      For starters, the FTC doesn’t have “agents.” And the idea of clearing one’s name in an investigation with a Bitcoin payment is a sure-fire sign of a scam. Lastly, any time someone asks for payment with Bitcoin or other payment methods that are near-impossible to recover (think wire transfers and gift cards), those are big red flags.

      Apart from hanging up and holding on to your money, the FTC offers the following guidance, which holds true for any scam call:

      • Never transfer or send money to anyone in response to an unexpected call or message, no matter who they say they are.
      • Know that the FTC won’t ask for money. In fact, no government agency will ever tell you to deposit money at a cryptocurrency ATM, buy gift cards and share the numbers, or send money over a payment app like Zelle, Cash App, or Venmo.
      • Don’t trust your caller ID. A call might look like it’s coming from the government or a business, but scammers often fake caller ID.

      And we close things out a quick roundup …

      As always, here’s a quick list of a few stories that caught our eye this week:

      AI tools transform Christmas shopping as people turn to chatbots

      National cybercrime network operating for 14 years dismantled in Indonesia

      Why is AI becoming the go-to support for our children’s mental health?

      We’ll see you next Friday with a special edition to close out 2025 … This Year in Scams.

      The post This Week in Scams: Petco Breach Warning, and Watch Out for Fake Federal Calls appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      Think That Party Invite Is Real? Fake E-Vite Scams Are the New Phishing Trap

      By: Brooke Seipel — December 11th 2025 at 17:00

      It looks harmless enough.

      A digital party invitation lands in your inbox or phone. You click to see the details. Then it asks you to log in or create an account before revealing the event. 

      That’s where the scam begins. 

      Fake e-vite phishing scams are on the rise, and they take advantage of something simple: social trust. You’re far more likely to click an invitation than a generic “account alert” or “delivery notice.” 

      And that’s exactly why scammers are using them. 

      In fact, here’s a screenshot of a fake phishing email I recently got this holiday season:

      Screenshot of a Phishing Email sent this holiday season
      Screenshot of a Phishing Email sent this holiday season

      When you click the “open invitation” link, it immediately asks you to sign in or create an account with your personal information. That’s the step where scammers steal your private data. 

      What Is a Fake E-Vite Scam? 

      A fake e-vite scam is a phishing attack that pretends to be a real invitation from platforms like Paperless Post or other digital invitation services. 

      The goal is to trick you into: 

      • Entering your email and password 
      • Creating a fake account on a malicious site 
      • Clicking links that lead to credential-stealing pages 
      • Downloading malware disguised as an invitation 

      Once scammers have your login information, they can: 

      • Take over your email 
      • Reset passwords on other accounts 
      • Send scams to your contacts 
      • Launch identity theft attempts 

      How These Fake Invitation Scams Usually Work 

      Here’s the most common flow: 

      1. You receive a digital invitation that looks normal 
      2. The message prompts you to “view the invitation” 
      3. You’re redirected to a login or signup page 
      4. You enter your email, password, or personal info 
      5. The invitation never appears 
      6. Your credentials have now been stolen 

      Because this starts with something familiar and social, many people don’t realize it’s phishing until accounts are already compromised. Plus, scammers then use your email and name to trick friends and family into trusting more fake e-vites from your account.

      How to Tell If a Paperless Post Invite Is Real 

      Paperless Post has publicly acknowledged these scams and shared what legitimate messages actually look like. 

      Legitimate Paperless Post Emails Will Never: 

      • Include .EXE attachments 
      • Include .PDF attachments 
      • Include any attachments other than image files 

      Official Paperless Post Email Domains: 

      Legitimate invitations and account messages only come from: 

      Official support emails only come from: 

      If the sender does not match one of these exactly, it’s a scam. 

      Paperless Post also notes that verified emails may display a blue checkmark in supported inboxes to confirm authenticity.  

      The Biggest Red Flags of a Fake E-Vite 

      If you see any of the following, do not click: 

      • You’re forced to log in to “see” who invited you 
      • The sender email doesn’t match the official domains above 
      • The invitation creates urgency 
      • You’re asked for payment to view the event 
      • The message feels generic instead of personal 
      • The site address looks slightly off 

      Why These Scams Are So Effective Right Now 

      Modern phishing attacks don’t rely on sloppy design anymore. Many now use: 

      • Polished branding 
      • Clean layouts 
      • Familiar platforms 
      • Friendly language 
      • Social pressure 

      Invitation phishing is especially powerful because: 

      • It triggers curiosity 
      • It feels harmless 
      • It mimics real social behavior 
      • It doesn’t start with fear or threats 
      • By the time the scam turns risky, your guard is already down. 

      What To Do If You Clicked a Fake E-Vite 

      If you entered any information into a suspicious invitation page: 

      1. Immediately change your email password 
      2. Change any other account that reused that password 
      3. Enable two-factor authentication 
      4. Check for unknown login activity 
      5. Warn contacts if your email may have been compromised 
      6. Run a security scan on your device 

      The faster you act, the more damage you can prevent. 

      The post Think That Party Invite Is Real? Fake E-Vite Scams Are the New Phishing Trap appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      How to Stay Safe on Your New AI Browser

      By: McAfee — December 10th 2025 at 18:58

      AI-powered browsers give you much more than a window to the web. They represent an entirely new way to experience the internet, with an AI “agent” working by your side.

      We’re entering an age where you can delegate all kinds of tasks to a browser, and with that comes a few things you’ll want to keep in mind when using AI browsers like ChatGPT’s Atlas, Perplexity’s Comet, and others.

      What are agentic AI browsers?

      So, what’s the allure of this new breed of browser? The answer is that it’s highly helpful, and plenty more.

      By design, these “agentic” AI browsers actively assist you with the things you do online. They can automate tasks and interpret your intentions when you make a request. Further, they can work proactively by anticipating things you might need or by offering suggestions.

      In a way, an AI browser works like a personal assistant. It can summarize the pages in several open tabs, conduct research on just about any topic you ask it to, or even track down the lowest airfare to Paris in the month of May. Want it to order ink for your printer and some batteries for your remote? It can do that too. And that’s just to name a few possibilities.

      As you can see, referring to the AI in these browsers as “agentic” fits. It truly works like an agent on your behalf, a capability that promises to get more powerful over time.

      Is it safe to use an AI browser?

      But as with any new technology, early adopters should balance excitement with awareness, especially when it comes to privacy and security. You might have seen some recent headlines that shared word of security concerns with these browsers.

      The reported exploits vary, as does the harm they can potentially inflict. That ranges from stealing personal info, gaining access to Gmail and Google Drive files, installing malware, and injecting the AI’s “memory” with malicious instructions, which can follow from session to session and device to device, wherever a user logs in.

      Our own research has shown that some of these attacks are now tougher to pull off than they were initially, particularly as the AI browser companies continue to put guardrails in place. If anything, this reinforces a long-standing truth about online security, it’s a cat-and-mouse game. Tech companies put protections in place, bad actors discover an exploit, companies put further protections in place, new exploits crop up, and so on. It’s much the same in the rapidly evolving space of AI browsers. The technology might be new, but the game certainly isn’t.

      While these reports don’t mean AI browsers are necessarily unsafe to use, they do underscore how fast this space is evolving…and why caution is smart as the tech matures.

      How To Use an AI Browser Safely

      It’s still early days for AI-powered browsers and understanding the security and privacy implications of their use. With that, we strongly recommend the following to help reduce your risk:

      Don’t let an AI browser do what you wouldn’t let a stranger do. Handle things like your banking, finances, and health on your own. And the same certainly goes for all the info tied to those aspects of your life.

      Pay attention to confirmations. As of today, agentic browsers still require some level of confirmation from the user to perform key actions (like processing a payment, sending an email, or updating a calendar entry). Pay close attention to them, so you can prevent your browser from doing something you don’t want it to do.

      Use the “logged out” mode, if possible. As of this writing, at least one AI browser, Atlas, gives you the option to use the agent in the logged-out mode.i This limits its access to sensitive data and the risk of it taking actions on your behalf with your credentials.

      If possible, disable “model learning.” By turning it off, you reduce the amount of personal info stored and processed by the AI provider for AI training purposes, which can minimize security and privacy risks.

      Set privacy controls to the strictest options available. Further, understand what privacy policies the AI developer has in place. For example, some AI providers have policies that allow people to review your interactions with the AI as part of its training. These policies vary from company to company, and they tend to undergo changes. Keeping regular tabs on the privacy policy of the AI browser you use makes for a privacy-smart move.

      Keep yourself informed. The capabilities, features, and privacy policies of AI-powered browsers continue to evolve rapidly. Set up news alerts about the AI browser you use and see if any issues get reported and, if so, how the AI developer has responded. Do routine searches pairing the name of the AI browser with “privacy.”

      How McAfee Can Help

      McAfee’s award-winning protection helps you browse safer, whether you’re testing out new AI tools or just surfing the web.

      McAfee offers comprehensive privacy services, including personal info scans and removal plus a secure VPN.

      Plus, protections like McAfee’s Scam Detector automatically alert you to suspicious texts, emails, and videos before harm can happen—helping you manage your online presence confidently and safeguard your digital life for the long term. Likewise, Web Protection can help you steer you clear of suspicious websites that might take advantage of AI browsers.

      The post How to Stay Safe on Your New AI Browser appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      This Week in Scams: Phony AI Ads, Apple Account Takeover Attempts, and a PlayStation Scam

      By: McAfee — December 5th 2025 at 17:26

      For this week in scams, we have fake AI-generated shopping images that could spoil your holidays, scammers use an Apple Support ticket in a takeover attempt, and a PlayStation scam partly powered by AI.

      Let’s start with those fake ads, because holiday shopping is in full swing.

      Keep a sharp eye out for fake AI shopping ads that sell knockoff goods

      Turns out that three-quarters of people (74%) can’t correctly identify a fake AI-generated social media ad featuring popular holiday gifts—which could leave them open to online shopping scams.

      That finding, and several others, comes by way of research from Santander, a financial services company in the UK.

      Here’s a quick rundown of what else they found:

      • Less than one in 10 (8%) people feel “very confident” in their ability to spot an AI-generated ad on social media.
      • More than half (56%) fear that they or a family member could get scammed as a result.
      • About two-thirds (63%) said that they won’t purchase anything from social media platforms because they’re not sure what’s real and what’s fake.

      From the study … could you tell these ads are both fake?

       

       

      Fake ads, like this, have been popping up across social.
      Fake ads, like this, have been popping up across social.

       

       

      Could you tell this ad is fake?
      Could you tell this ad is fake?

      In all, cheap and readily available AI tools make spinning up fake ads quick and easy work. The same goes for launching websites where those “goods” can get sold. In the past, we’ve seen scammers take two different approaches when they use social media ads and websites to lure in their victims:

      Phishing sites

      During the holidays, scammers pump out ads that offer seemingly outstanding deals on hot items. Of course, the offer and the site where it’s “sold” is fake. Victims hand over their personal info and credit card number, never to see the items they thought they’d purchased. On top of the money a victim loses, the scammer also has their card info and can run up its tab or sell it to others on the dark web.

      Knock-off sites

      In this case, the scammer indeed sells and delivers something. But you don’t get what you paid for. The item looks, feels, fits, or works entirely differently than what was advertised. In this way, people wind up with a cheaply made item cobbled together with inferior materials. Worse yet, these scams potentially prop up sweatshops, child labor, and other illegal operations in the process. Nothing about these sites and the things they sell on them are genuine.

      So, fake AI shopping ads are out there. What should you look out for? Here’s a quick list:

      • First off, any offer that sounds too good to be true and heavy discounts on hard-to-find or popular items are major signs of a scam—and have been for years running now.
      • See if the image looks a little too polished or even cartoony in some cases. As for people in AI ads, they can look airbrushed and have skin tones that seemingly give off an odd glow.
      • Look up reviews of the company. Trustpilot and the Better Business Bureau offer great resources for that. Even simple a search using “CompanyName scam” can give you an idea if it’s a scam or not.
      • And lastly, the combination of our Scam Detector and Web Protection can help sniff out a scam for you.

      The Apple Support scam that came from … Apple? (Not really. We’ll explain.)

      “I almost lost everything—my photos, my email, my entire digital life.”

      So opens a recent Medium post from Eric Moret recounting how he almost handed over his Apple Account to a scammer armed with a real Apple Support ticket to make this elaborate phishing attack look legit.

      Over the course of nearly 30 minutes, a scammer calmly and professionally walked Moret through a phony account takeover attempt.

      It started with two-factor authentication notifications that claimed someone was trying to access his iCloud account. Three minutes later, he got a call from an Atlanta-based number. The caller said they were with Apple Support. “Your account is under attack. We’re opening a ticket to help you. Someone will contact you shortly.”

      Seconds later came another call from the same number, which is where the scam fully kicked in. The person also said they were from Apple Support and that they’d opened a case on Moret’s behalf. Sure enough, when directed, Moret opened his email and saw a legitimate case number from a legitimate Apple address.

      The caller then told him to reset his password, which he did. Moret received a text with a link to a site where he could, apparently, close his case.

      Note that at no time did the scammers ask him for his two-factor authentication code throughout this process, which is always the sign of a scam. However, the scammers had another way to get it.

      The link took him to a site called “appeal-apple dot com,” which was in fact a scam site. However, the page looked official to him, and he entered a six-digit code “confirmation code” sent by text to finish the process.

      That “confirmation code” was actually a fresh two-factor authentication code. With that finally in hand, the scammers signed in. Moret received a notice that a new device had logged into his account. Moret quickly reset his password again, which kicked them out and stopped the attack.

      So, what went wrong here? Let’s break down three key moments in this account takeover scam:

      • The unsolicited phone calls. That’s an immediate sign to hang up and call an official support number to confirm the “issue” yourself.
      • The fake website. A site with a URL like “appeal-apple dot com” is a scam site, even if it looks “official.” Scammers can create them easily today.
      • The code heist. Scammers trick people into handing over their authorization code by calling it something else, like a “confirmation code.”

      So, how can you protect yourself from account takeover scams? Let’s break that down too.

      • Know that Apple Support won’t call you or open a case on your behalf.
      • Also know that anyone can create an Apple Support ticket for anyone else, without verification. If you didn’t create it yourself, it’s a strong sign of a scam.
      • If you have concerns, call Apple yourself at 1-800-275-2273 or contact them through their Apple Support App, available here on Apple’s support page.
      • Only interact with Apple through sites and emails with the proper “apple dot com” address. Watch out for altered addresses like the “appeal-apple dot com” used here.
      • Never, ever share your authentication code in any way … verbally, in an email, in a text, or a website. Any request for it from anyone is a scam.
      • You can see the devices signed into your account any time. Go to Settings, tap your Name, and scroll to see all devices linked to your Apple ID.
      • Get protection that blocks links to scam sites, like our Scam Detectorand Web Protection.

      The FCC takes aim at the Wal-Mart PlayStation 5 Robocall Scam

      Maybe you didn’t get a scam call from “Emma” or “Carl” at Wal-Mart, but plenty of people did. Around eight million in all. Now the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Enforcement Bureau wants to put a stop to them.

      “Emma” and “Carl” are in fact a couple of AI voices fronting a scam framed around the bogus purchase of a PlayStation. It’s garnered its share of complaints, so much that the FCC has stepped in. It alleges that SK Teleco, a voice service provider, provisioned at least some of these calls, and that it must immediately stop.

      According to the FCC, the call plays out like this:

      “A preauthorized purchase of PlayStation 5 special edition with Pulse 3D headset is being ordered from your Walmart account for an amount of 919 dollars 45 cents. To cancel your order or to connect with one of our customer support representatives, please press ‘1.’ Thank you.”

      Pressing “1” connects you to a live operator who asks for personal identifiable such as Social Security numbers to cancel the “purchase.”

      If you were wondering, it’s unlawful to place calls to cellphones containing artificial or prerecorded voice messages absent an emergency purpose or prior express consent. According to the FCC’s press release, SK Teleco didn’t respond to a request to investigate the calls. The FCC further alleges that it’s unlikely the company has any such consent.

      Per the FCC, “If SK Teleco fails to take swift action to prevent scam calls, the FCC will require all other providers to no longer accept call traffic from SK Teleco.”

      We’ll see how this plays out, yet it’s a good reminder to report scam calls. When it comes to any kind of scam, law enforcement and federal agencies act on complaints.

      Get a scam call? Who’s here you can report it to:

      And we close things out a quick roundup …

      Here’s a quick list of a few stories that caught our eye this week:

      Scammers pose as law enforcement, threaten jail time if you don’t pay (with audio)

      Deepfake of North Carolina lawmaker used in award-winning Brazilian Whirlpool video

      What happens when you kick millions of teens off social media? Australia’s about to find out

      We’ll see you next Friday with more updates, scam news, and ways you can stay safer out there.

      The post This Week in Scams: Phony AI Ads, Apple Account Takeover Attempts, and a PlayStation Scam appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      Ways to Tell if a Website Is Fake

      By: McAfee — November 4th 2025 at 16:40

      Unfortunately, scammers today are coming at us from all angles, trying to trick us into giving up our hard-earned money. We all need to be vigilant in protecting ourselves online. If you aren’t paying attention, even if you know what to look for, they can still catch you off guard. There are numerous ways to detect fake sites, phishing, and other scams, including emails.

      Before we delve into the signs of fake websites, we will first take a closer look at the common types of scams that use websites, what happens when you accidentally access a fake website, and what you can do in case you unknowingly purchased items from it.

      What are fake or scam websites?

      Fake or scam websites are fraudulent sites that look legitimate while secretly attempting to steal your personal information, money, or account access.

      These deceptive platforms masquerade as trustworthy businesses or organizations, sending urgent messages that appear to be from popular shopping websites offering fantastic limited-time deals, banking websites requesting immediate account verification, government portals claiming you owe taxes or are eligible for refunds, and shipping companies asking for delivery fees.

      The urgency aims to trick you into logging in and sharing sensitive information, such as credit card numbers, Social Security details, login credentials, and personal data. Once you submit your data, the scammers will steal your identity, drain your accounts, or sell your details to other criminals on the dark web.

      These scam websites have become increasingly prevalent because they’re relatively inexpensive to create and can reach millions of potential victims quickly through email and text campaigns, social media ads, and search engine manipulation.

      Cybersecurity researchers and consumer protection agencies discover these fraudulent sites through various methods, including monitoring suspicious domain registrations, analyzing reported phishing attempts, and tracking unusual web traffic patterns. According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, losses from cyber-enabled fraud totaled $13.7 billion, with fake websites accounting for a significant portion of these losses.

      Consequences of visiting a fake website

      Visiting a fake website, accidentally or intentionally, can expose you to several serious security risks that can impact your digital life and financial well-being:

      • Credential theft: Scammers can capture your login information through fake login pages that look identical to legitimate sites. Once they have your username and password, they can access your real accounts and steal personal information or money.
      • Credit card fraud: When you enter your bank or credit card details on fraudulent shopping or fake service portals, scammers can use your payment information for unauthorized purchases or sell these to other criminals on the dark web.
      • Malware infection: Malicious downloads, infected ads, or drive-by downloads may happen automatically when you visit certain fake sites. These, in turn, can steal personal files, monitor your activity, or give criminals remote access to your device.
      • Identity theft: Fake sites can collect personal information, such as Social Security numbers, addresses, or birthdates, through fraudulent forms or surveys.
      • Account takeovers: Criminals can use stolen credentials to access your email, banking, or social media accounts, potentially locking you out and using your accounts for further scams.

      Common types of scam websites

      Scammers employ various tactics to create fake websites that appear authentic, but most of these techniques follow familiar patterns. Knowing the main types of scam sites helps you recognize danger faster. This section lists the most common categories of scam websites, explains how they operate, and identifies the red flags that alert you before they can steal your information or money.

      • Fake shopping stores: These fraudulent e-commerce sites steal your money and personal information without delivering products. They offer unrealistic discounts (70%+ off), have no customer service contact information, or accept payments only through wire transfers or gift cards. These sites often use stolen product images and fake customer reviews to appear legitimate.
      • Phishing login pages: These sites mimic legitimate services such as banks, email providers, or social media platforms to harvest your credentials. Their URLs that don’t match the official domain, such as “bankofamerica-security.com” instead of “bankofamerica.com.” Their urgent messages claim your account will be suspended unless you log in immediately.
      • Tech support scam sites: These fake websites claim to detect computer problems and offer remote assistance for a fee. They begin with a pop-up ad with a loud alarm to warn you about viruses, providing phone numbers to call “immediately” or requesting remote desktop access from unsolicited contacts.
      • Investment and crypto sites: These sites guarantee incredible returns on cryptocurrency or investment opportunities, feature fake celebrity endorsements, or pressure you to invest quickly before a “limited-time opportunity” expires.
      • Giveaway and lottery pages: You receive notifications with a link to a page that claims you’ve won prizes In contests you never entered, but require upfront fees or personal information to receive them. They will request bank account details to “process your winnings” or upfront processing fees.
      • Shipping and parcel update portals: These typically appear as tracking pages that mimic delivery services, such as USPS, UPS, or FedEx, to steal personal information or payment details. The pages ask for immediate payment to release and deliver the packages, or for login credentials to accounts you don’t have with that carrier.
      • Malware download pages: These ill-intentioned sites offer “free” but uncertified software, games, or media files that contain harmful code to infect your device once you click on the prominent “Download” button.
      • Advance fee and loan scams: These sites claim to guarantee approved loans or financial services, regardless of your credit score. But first, you will have to post an upfront payment or processing fees before any actual assistance is rendered.

      Understanding these common scam types helps you recognize fake sites before they can steal your information or money. When in doubt, verify legitimacy by visiting official websites directly through bookmarks or search engines rather than clicking suspicious links.

      For the latest warnings and protection guidance, check resources from the Federal Trade Commission and the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.

      Recognize a fake site

      You can protect yourself by learning to recognize the warning signs of fake sites. By understanding what these scams look like and how they operate, you’ll be better equipped to shop, bank, and browse online with confidence. Remember, legitimate companies will never pressure you to provide sensitive information through unsolicited emails or urgent pop-up messages.

      1. Mismatched domain name and brand: The website URL doesn’t match the company name they claim to represent, like “amazoon-deals.com” instead of “amazon.com.” Scammers use similar-looking domains to trick you into thinking you’re on a legitimate site.
      2. Spelling mistakes and poor grammar: Legitimate businesses invest in professionally created content to ensure clean and error-free writing or graphics. If you are on a site with multiple typos, awkward phrasing, or grammatical errors, this indicates that it was hastily created and not thoroughly reviewed, unlike authentic websites.
      3. Missing or invalid security certificate: The site lacks the “https://” prefix in the URL or displays security warnings in your browser. Without proper encryption, any information you enter can be intercepted by criminals.
      4. Fantastic deals: Look out for prices that are dramatically low—like designer items at 90% off or electronics at impossibly low costs. Scammers use unrealistic bargains to lure victims into providing payment information.
      5. High-pressure countdown timers: The site displays urgent messages such as “Only 2 left!” or countdown clocks with limited-time offers that reset when you refresh the page. These fake urgency tactics push you to make hasty decisions without proper research.
      6. No physical address, contact information, or legitimate business details: The site provides only an email address or contact form. In the same vein, any email address they provide may look strange, like northbank@hotmail.com. Any legitimate business will not use a public email account, such as Hotmail, Gmail, or Yahoo.
      7. Missing or vague return policy: Legitimate businesses want satisfied customers and provide clear policies for returns and exchanges. Scams, however, often fail to provide clear refund policies, return instructions, or customer service information.
      8. Stolen or low-quality images: Scammers often steal images from legitimate sites without permission, making their product photos look pixelated, watermarked, or inconsistent in style and quality.
      9. Fake or generic reviews: Authentic reviews include specific details and a mix of ratings and comments. On fake websites, however, customer reviews are often overly positive, using generic language, posted on the same dates, or containing similar phrasing patterns.
      10. Limited payment options: Legitimate businesses offer secure payment options with buyer protection. Fake websites, however, only accept wire transfers, cryptocurrency, gift cards, or other non-reversible or untraceable payment methods.
      11. Recently registered domain: The website was created very recently—often just days or weeks ago, whereas established businesses typically have older, stable web presences.
      12. Fake password: If you’re at a fake site and type in a phony password, the fake site is likely to accept it.

      Recognize phishing, SMiShing, and other fake communications

      Most scams typically start with social engineering tactics, such as phishing, smishing, and fake social media messages containing suspicious links, before directing you to a fake website.

      From these communications, the scammers impersonate legitimate organizations before finally executing their malevolent intentions. To avoid being tricked, it is essential to recognize the warning signs wherever you encounter them.

      Email phishing red flags

      Fake emails are among the most common phishing attempts you’ll encounter. If you see any of these signs in an unsolicited email, it is best not to engage:

      • One way to recognize a phishing email is by its opening greeting. A legitimate email from your real bank or business will address you by name rather than a generic greeting like “Valued Customer” or something similar.
      • In the main message, look for urgent language, such as “Act now!” or “Your account will be suspended immediately.” Legitimate organizations rarely create artificial urgency around routine account matters. Also, pay attention to the sender’s email address. Authentic companies use official domains, not generic email services like Gmail or Yahoo for business communications.
      • Be suspicious of emails requesting your credentials, Social Security number, or other sensitive information. Banks and reputable companies will never ask for passwords or personal details via email.
      • Look closely at logos and formatting. Spoofed emails often contain low-resolution images, spelling errors, or slightly altered company logos that don’t match the authentic versions.

      SMS and text message scams

      Smishing messages bear the same signs as phishing emails and have become increasingly sophisticated. These fake messages often appear to come from delivery services, banks, or government agencies. Common tactics include fake package delivery notifications, urgent banking alerts, or messages claiming you’ve won prizes or need to verify account information.

      Legitimate organizations typically don’t include clickable links in unsolicited text messages, especially for account-related actions. When in doubt, don’t click the link—instead, open your banking app directly or visit the official website by typing the URL manually.

      Social media phishing

      Social media platforms give scammers new opportunities to create convincing fake profiles and pages. They might impersonate customer service accounts, create fake giveaways, or send direct messages requesting personal information. These fake sites often use profile pictures and branding that closely resemble legitimate companies.

      Unusual sender behavior is another indicator of a scam across all platforms. This includes messages from contacts you haven’t heard from in years, communications from brands you don’t typically interact with, or requests that seem out of character for the supposed sender.

      Examples of fake or scam websites

      Scammers have become increasingly cunning in creating fake websites that closely mimic legitimate businesses and services. Here are some real-life examples of how cybercriminals use fake websites to victimize consumers:

      USPS-themed scams and websites

      Scammers exploit your trust in the United States Postal Service (USPS), designing sophisticated fake websites to steal your personal information, payment details, or money. They know you’re expecting a package or need to resolve a delivery issue, making you more likely to enter sensitive information without carefully verifying the site’s authenticity.

      USPS-themed smishing attacks arrive as text messages stating your package is delayed, undeliverable, or requires immediate action. Common phrases include “Pay $1.99 to reschedule delivery” or “Your package is held – click here to release.”

      Common URL tricks in USPS scams

      Scammers use various URL manipulation techniques to make their fake sites appear official. Watch for these red flags:

      • Misspelled domains: Sites like “uspps.com,” “uspo.com,” or “us-ps.com” instead of the official “usps.com”
      • Extra characters: URLs containing hyphens, numbers, or additional words like “usps-tracking.com” or “usps2024.com”
      • Different extensions: Domains ending in .net, .org, .info, or country codes instead of .com
      • Subdomain tricks: URLs like “usps.fake-site.com” where “usps” appears as a subdomain rather than the main domain
      • HTTPS absence: Legitimate USPS pages use secure HTTPS connections, while some fake sites may only use HTTP

      Verify through official USPS channels

      Always verify package information and delivery issues through official USPS channels before taking any action on suspicious websites or messages:

      • Official USPS website: Report the incident directly to usps.com by typing the URL into your browser rather than clicking links from emails or texts. Use the tracking tool on the homepage to check your package status with the official tracking number.
      • Official USPS mobile app: The USPS mobile app, available from official app stores, provides secure access to tracking, scheduling, and delivery management. Verify that you are downloading from USPS by checking the publisher name and official branding.
      • USPS Customer Service: If you receive conflicting information or suspect a scam, call USPS Customer Service at 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777) to verify delivery issues or payment requests.
      • Your local post office: When you need definitive verification, speak with postal workers at your local USPS location who can access your package information directly in their systems.

      Where and how to report fake USPS websites

      Reporting fake USPS websites helps protect others from falling victim to these scams and assists law enforcement in tracking down perpetrators.

      • Report to USPS: Forward suspicious emails to the United States Postal Inspection Service and report fake websites through the USPS website’s fraud reporting section. The Postal Inspection Service investigates mail fraud and online scams targeting postal customers.
      • File with the Federal Trade Commission: Report the fraudulent website at ReportFraud.ftc.gov, providing details about the fake site’s URL, any money lost, and screenshots of the fraudulent pages.
      • Contact the Federal Bureau of Investigation: Submit reports through the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, especially if you provided personal information or lost money to the scam.
      • Alert your state attorney general: Many state attorneys general’s offices track consumer fraud and can investigate scams targeting residents in their jurisdiction.

      Remember that legitimate USPS services are free for standard delivery confirmation and tracking. Any website demanding payment for basic package tracking or delivery should be treated as suspicious and verified through official USPS channels before providing any personal or financial information.

      Tech support pop-up ads scams

      According to the Federal Trade Commission, tech support scams cost Americans nearly $1.5 billion in 2024. These types of social engineering attacks are increasingly becoming sophisticated, making it more important than ever to verify security alerts through official channels.

      Sadly, many scammers are misusing the McAfee name to create fake tech support pop-up scams and trick you into believing your computer is infected or your protection has expired, and hoping you’ll act without thinking.

      These pop-ups typically appear while you’re browsing and claim your computer is severely infected with viruses, malware, or other threats. They use official-looking McAfee logos, colors, and messaging to appear legitimate to get you to call a fake support number, download malicious software, or pay for unnecessary services.

      Red flags of fake McAfee pop-up

      Learning to detect fake sites and pop-ups protects you from scams. Be on the lookout for these warning signs:

      • Offering phone numbers to call immediately: Legitimate McAfee software never displays pop-ups demanding you call a phone number right away for virus removal.
      • Requests for remote access: Authentic McAfee alerts won’t ask you for permission to control your computer to “fix” issues remotely.
      • Immediate payment demands: Real McAfee pop-ups don’t require instant payment to resolve security threats.
      • Countdown timers: Fake alerts often include urgent timers claiming your computer will be “locked” or “damaged” if you don’t act immediately.
      • Poor grammar and spelling: Many fraudulent pop-ups contain obvious spelling and grammatical errors.
      • Browser-based alerts: Genuine McAfee software notifications appear from the actual installed program, not through your web browser.

      Properly close a McAfee-themed pop-up ad

      If you see a suspicious pop-up claiming to be from McAfee, here’s exactly what you should do:

      1. Close the tab immediately: Don’t click anywhere on the pop-up, not even the “X” button, as this might trigger malware downloads.
      2. Use keyboard shortcuts: Press Ctrl+Alt+Delete or Command+Option+Escape (Mac) to force-close your browser safely.
      3. Don’t call any phone numbers: Never call support numbers displayed on the pop-ups, as these connect you directly to scammers.
      4. Avoid downloading software: Don’t download any “cleaning” or “security” tools offered through pop-ups.
      5. Clear your browser cache: After closing the pop-up, clear your browser’s cache and cookies to remove any tracking elements.

      Verify your actual McAfee protection status

      To check if your McAfee protection is genuinely active and up-to-date:

      • Open your installed McAfee software directly: Click on the McAfee icon in your system tray or search for McAfee in your start menu.
      • Visit the official McAfee website: Go directly to mcafee.com by typing it into your address bar.
      • Log in to your McAfee account: Check your subscription status through your official McAfee online account.
      • Use the McAfee mobile app: Download the official McAfee Mobile Security app to monitor your protection remotely.

      Remember, legitimate McAfee software updates and notifications come through the installed program itself, not through random browser pop-ups. Your actual McAfee protection works quietly in the background without bombarding you with alarming messages.

      Crush fake tech support pop-ups

      Stay protected by trusting your installed McAfee software and always verifying security alerts through official McAfee channels, such as your installed McAfee dashboard or the official website.

      1. Close your browser safely. If you see a fake McAfee pop-up claiming your computer is infected, don’t click anything on the pop-up. Instead, close your browser completely using Alt+F4 (Windows) or Command+Q (Mac). If the pop-up does not close, open Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc) and end the browser process. This prevents any malicious scripts from running and stops the scammers from accessing your system.
      2. Clear browser permissions. Fake security pop-ups often trick you into allowing notifications that can bombard you with more scam alerts. Go to your browser settings and revoke notification permissions for suspicious sites. In Chrome, go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Site Settings > Notifications, then remove any unfamiliar or suspicious websites from the list of allowed sites.
      3. Remove suspicious browser extensions. Malicious extensions can generate fake McAfee alerts and redirect you to scam websites. Check your browser extensions by going to the extensions menu and removing any that you don’t recognize or that you didn’t intentionally install.
      4. Reset your browser settings. If fake pop-ups persist, reset your browser to its default settings to remove unwanted changes made by malicious websites or extensions, while preserving your bookmarks and saved passwords. In most browsers, you can find the reset option under Advanced Settings.
      5. Run a complete security scan. Use your legitimate antivirus software to perform a full system scan. If you don’t have security software, download a reputable program from the official vendor’s website only, such as McAfee Total Protection, to detect and remove any malware that might be generating the fake pop-ups.
      6. Update your operating system and browser. Ensure your device has the latest security and web browser updates installed, which often include patches for vulnerabilities that scammers exploit. Enable automatic updates to stay protected against future threats.
      7. Review and adjust notification settings. Configure your browser to block pop-ups and block sites from sending you notifications. You could be tempted to allow some sites to send you alerts, but we suggest erring on the side of caution and just block all notifications.

      Steps to take if you visited or purchased from a fake site

      Be prepared and know how to respond quickly when something doesn’t feel right. If you suspect you’ve encountered a fake website, trust your instincts and take these protective steps immediately.

      1. Disconnect immediately: Close your browser by using Alt+F4 (Windows), Ctrl + W (Chrome), or Command+Q (Mac) on your keyboard.
      2. Run a comprehensive security scan: If you suspect a virus or malware, disconnect from the internet to prevent data transmission. Conduct a full scan using your antivirus software to detect and remove any potential threats that may have been downloaded.
      3. Contact your credit card issuer: Call the number on the back of your card and report the fraudulent charges for which you can receive zero liability protection. Card companies allow up to 60 days for charge disputes under federal law and can refund payments made to the fake store. Consider requesting a temporary freeze on your account while the investigation proceeds.
      4. Cancel your credit card: Request a replacement card with a new number to give you a fresh start. Your card issuer can expedite the request if needed, often within 24-48 hours.
      5. Document everything thoroughly: Save all emails, receipts, order confirmations, and screenshots of the fake website before it potentially disappears. This documentation will be crucial for your chargeback and insurance claims, and any legal proceedings.
      6. Update passwords on other accounts: Scammers often test stolen credentials across multiple platforms, so if you reused the same password on the fake site that you use elsewhere, change those passwords immediately. Enable two-factor authentication on important accounts like email, banking, and social media.
      7. Stay alert for follow-up scams: Scammers may attempt to contact you via phone, email, or text claiming to “resolve” your situation through fake shipping notifications, additional payments to “release” your package, or “refunds” on your money in exchange for personal information.
      8. Monitor your credit and financial accounts. Keep a close eye on your bank and credit card statements for several months and place a fraud alert on your credit reports through one of the three major credit bureaus—TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian. Consider a credit freeze for maximum protection.
      9. Check for legitimate alternatives. If you were trying to purchase a specific product, research authorized retailers or the manufacturer’s official website. Verify business credentials, secure payment options, and return policies before making new purchases.

      Report a scam website, email, or text message

      • Federal Trade Commission: Report fraudulent websites to the FTC, which investigates consumer complaints and uses this data to identify patterns of fraud and take enforcement action against scammers.
      • FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center: Submit detailed reports to the IC3 for suspected internet crimes. IC3 serves as a central hub for reporting cybercrime and coordinates with law enforcement agencies nationwide.
      • State Attorney General: If the fake store claimed to be located in your state, consider reporting to your state attorney general’s office, as these have dedicated fraud reporting systems and can take action against businesses operating within state boundaries. Find your state’s reporting portal through the National Association of Attorneys General website.
      • Domain registrar, hosting provider, social media: Look up the website’s registration details using a WHOIS tool, then report abuse to both the domain registrar and web hosting company. Most providers have dedicated abuse reporting emails and will investigate violations of their terms of service. If the fake page is on social media, you can report it to the platform to protect other consumers.
      • Search engines: Report fraudulent sites to Google through their spam report form and to Microsoft Bing via their webmaster tools to prevent the fake sites from appearing in search results.
      • The impersonated brand: If scammers are impersonating a legitimate company, report directly to that company’s fraud department or customer service. Most brands have dedicated channels for reporting fake websites and will work to shut them down.
      • Share your experience to protect others: Leave reviews on scam-reporting websites such as the Better Business Bureau’s Scam Tracker or post about your experience on social media to warn friends and family. Your experience can help others avoid the same trap and contribute to the broader fight against online fraud.
      • Essential evidence to gather:
        • Full website URL and any redirected addresses
        • Screenshots of the fraudulent pages, including fake logos or branding
        • Transaction details, if you made a purchase (receipts, confirmation emails, payment information)
        • Email communications from the scammers
        • Date and time when you first encountered the site
        • Any personal information you may have provided
      • Additional reporting resources: The CISA maintains an updated list of reporting resources, while the Anti-Phishing Working Group investigates cases of fake sites that appear to be collecting personal information fraudulently. For text message scams, forward the message to 7726 (SPAM).

      Final thoughts

      Recognizing fake sites and emails becomes easier with practice. The key is to trust your instincts—if something feels suspicious or too good to be true, take a moment to verify through official channels. With the simple verification techniques covered in this guide, you can confidently navigate the digital world and spot fake sites and emails before they cause harm.

      Your best defense is to make these quick security checks a regular habit—verify URLs, look for secure connections, and trust your instincts when something feels off. Go directly to the source or bookmark your most frequently used services and always navigate to them. Enable two-factor authentication on important accounts, and remember that legitimate companies will never ask for sensitive information via email. Maintaining healthy skepticism about unsolicited communications will protect not only your personal information but also help create a safer online environment for everyone.

      For the latest information on fake websites and scams and to report them, visit the Federal Trade Commission’s scam alerts or the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.

      The post Ways to Tell if a Website Is Fake appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      How to Spot Charity Scams and Donate Safely this Giving Season

      By: McAfee — December 2nd 2025 at 13:00

      The holidays are the season of giving; unfortunately, it’s also the season when scammers try to cash in on the spirit of generosity

      If you’re seeing a heartfelt charity ad on social media, a touching email, or a surprise text asking you to donate, it’s worth pausing for a moment. Is it genuine charity—or a scam built to tug at your heartstrings?

      The good news: staying safe doesn’t mean stopping your generosity. With a few quick checks, you can give confidently and protect yourself.

      What is charity fraud?

      Charity fraud is when scammers pose as legitimate nonprofits—or misuse the name of a real charity—to trick people into donating money or giving away personal information.

      In some cases, the organization is completely fake. In others, it’s a real charity that uses donations in misleading or unethical ways, passing very little money to the actual cause.

      Type 1: Fully fake charities

      The first type involves flat-out fraud, where the organization is a front for a scam, through and through. Any money you give goes straight into the scammer’s pocket. As does your personal and payment info, which can lead to further fraud.

      Type 2: Low impact “charities”

      These are real, registered charities. But They keep the majority of donations for overhead instead of helping the cause.

      This second type often involves questionable practices by the organization. According to the Better Business Bureau, reputable organizations keep 35% or less of their funds for operations.

      Meanwhile, some less-than-reputable organizations keep up to 95% of funds, leaving only 5% for advancing the cause they advocate. (For a closer look at some examples, the independent watchdog group Charity Watch published a blog highlighting some of the worst charities they audited in 2024.)

      Common to both, they’ll indeed play on your emotions, and they’ll urge you to donate now. As it is with so many scams and shady deals on the internet, you’ll find a sense of urgency central to their message.

      How to spot a charity scam

      1. Look for a dot-org domain

      For starters, reputable charities often have dot-org as their domain extension—versus dot-com or any one of the hundreds of permutations available today.

      2. Research the organization

      Charities leave a paper trail, one that can get audited. And fake ones won’t leave a trail at all. With a quick look at some reputable online resources, you can quickly find out if the charity you want to support is legit.

      In the U.S., the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has a site full of resources so that you can make your donation truly count. Resources like Charity Watch and Charity Navigator, along with the BBB’s Wise Giving Alliance can also help you identify the best charities. You can also look up a charity’s Form 990 tax return online.

      3. Take your time

      This goes hand-in-hand with the above. If you feel like you’re getting rushed to donate, it could be a sign of a scam. Step back and indeed do your research with a few clicks to the resources listed above.

      4. Pay with a credit card

      This protects you in two ways. If you fall victim to a scam, you can contest the charges with your credit card company. And if a scammer tries to use your card again for other purchases, you can contest those too. Also, in the U.S., credit cards offer you additional protection that debit cards don’t. That’s thanks to the Fair Credit Billing Act (FCBA). It limits your liability to $50 for fraudulent charges on a credit card if you report the loss to your issuer within 60 days.

      5. Avoid sketchy payment methods

      The following is a sure-fire red flag: requests for payment in cash, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers. Don’t ever use these forms of payment for charities, let alone anything else online.

      6. Donate directly

      Better yet, donate directly. Rather than respond to calls, ads, emails or texts, donate on your terms. After you give your possible donation some time and thought, you can go directly to the website of a charitable organization that you’ve researched.

      And here’s how McAfee can help you stay safer still.

      Get a scam detector. You can combine your healthy skepticism and awareness with the right technology, like our Scam Detector and Web Protection.

      Both will alert you if a link you received might take you to a sketchy site. It’ll also block those sites if you accidentally tap or click on a bad link.

      Clean up your personal info online. Scams over email, phone, and text all require the same thing: your contact info.

      In many cases, scammers get it from data broker sites. Data brokers buy, collect, and sell detailed personal info, which they compile from several public and private sources, such as local, state, and federal records, plus third parties like supermarket shopper’s cards and mobile apps that share and sell user data.

      Moreover, they’ll sell it to anyone who pays for it, including people who’ll use that info for scams. You can help reduce those scam texts and calls by removing your info from those sites. Our Personal Data Cleanup scans some of the riskiest data broker sites and shows you which ones are selling your personal info.

      Monitor your identity and credit. The problem with many scams is that you only find out about it once the damage is done, like when a scammer uses your phished card number to make additional purchases in your name.

      Actively monitoring your identity and credit can spot a problem before it becomes an even bigger one. You can take care of both easily with our credit monitoring and identity monitoring.

      Additionally, our identity theft coverage can help if the unexpected happens with up to $2 million in identity theft coverage and identity restoration support if determined you’re a victim of identity theft.​

      You’ll find these protections, and plenty more, in McAfee+.

      A safe way to support the fight against cybercrime

      If you want to give back and help protect people from online fraud, McAfee has partnered with Fight Cyber Crime, a legitimate U.S. nonprofit dedicated to helping victims of online scams.

      You might remember them from our Scam Stories partnership earlier this year, sharing real stories from real scam victims to raise awareness about threats facing us every day on and offline.

      Why we recommend them

      • They provide free support and recovery guidance to scam victims.
      • They raise nationwide awareness about cybercrime.
      • They’re a vetted, established organization doing real work in online safety.

      How you can help

      Visit their site to learn more or make a donation: https://fightcybercrime.org/about/donate/

      Supporting validated charities like Fight Cyber Crime is one way to make a real impact this holiday season—without putting yourself at risk.

      The post How to Spot Charity Scams and Donate Safely this Giving Season appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      Venmo 101: Making Safer Payments with the App

      By: McAfee — November 18th 2025 at 17:00

      As the holiday season ramps up, so do group dinners, shared travel costs, gift exchanges, and all the little moments where someone says, “Just Venmo me.”

      With more people sending and splitting money this time of year, scammers know it’s prime time to target payment apps. Here’s how to keep your Venmo transactions safe during one of the busiest — and riskiest — payment seasons.

      What kind of scams are on Venmo?

      Venmo scams come in all shapes, and many of them look like variations of email phishing and text scams. The scammers behind them will pose as Venmo customer service reps who ask for your login credentials. Other scammers offer bogus cash prizes and pyramid schemes that lure in victims with the promise of quick cash. Some scammers will use the app itself to impersonate friends and family to steal money.

      Venmo has a dedicated web page on the topic of scams, and lists the following as the top Venmo scams out there:

      ·       Fake Prize or Cash Reward

      ·       Call from Venmo

      ·       Call from Tech Support

      ·       Fake Payment Confirmation

      ·       Pre-payment for Goods and Services

      		 ·       Stranger Posing as a Friend

      ·       Payments from Strangers

      ·       Offers to Make Money Fast

      ·       Paper Check Scam

      ·       Romance Scam

       

      Venmo has thorough instructions to combat these scams and breaks them down in detail on its site. They also provide preventative tips and steps to take if you unfortunately fall victim to one of these scams. Broadly speaking, though, avoiding Venmo scams breaks down into a few straightforward steps.

      How to avoid getting scammed on Venmo

      1) Never share private details.

      Scammers often pose as customer service reps to pump info out of their victims. They’ll ask for things like bank account info, debit card or credit card numbers, or even passwords and authentication codes sent to your phone. Never share this info. Legitimate reps from legitimate companies like Venmo won’t request it.

      2) Know when Venmo might ask for your Social Security number.

      In the U.S., Venmo is regulated by the Treasury Department. As such, Venmo might require your SSN in certain circumstances. Venmo details the cases where they might need your SSN for reporting, here on their website. Note that this is an exception to what we say about sharing SSNs and tax ID numbers. As a payment app, Venmo might have legitimate reasons to request it. However, don’t send this info by email or text (any email or text that asks you to do that is a scam). Instead, always use the mobile app by going to Settings  –> Identity Verification.

      3) Keep an eye out for scam emails and texts.

      Venmo always sends communications through its official “venmo.com” domain name. If you receive an email that claims to be from Venmo but that doesn’t use “venmo.com,” it’s a scam. Never click or tap on links in emails or texts supposedly sent by Venmo.

      4) Be suspicious of the messages you get. Imposters are afoot.

      Another broad category of scams includes people who aren’t who they say they are. In the case of Venmo, scammers will create imposter accounts that look like they might be a friend or family member but aren’t. If you receive an unexpected and likely urgent-sounding request for payment, contact that person outside the app. See if it’s really them.

      5) When sending money, keep an eye open for alerts from the app.

      Just recently, Venmo added a new feature, dynamic alerts, which helps protect people when sending money via the “Friends and Family” option. It pops up an alert if the app detects a potentially fraudulent transaction and includes info that describes the level of risk involved. In the cases of highly risky payments, Venmo might decline the transaction altogether. This adds another level of protection to Friends and Family payments, which are non-refundable in cases of fraud. Further, this underscores another important point about using Venmo: only pay people you absolutely know and trust.

      More ways to stay safe on Venmo

      Keep your transactions private. Venmo has a social component that can display a transaction between two people and allow others to comment on it. Payment amounts are always secret. Yet you have control over who sees what by adjusting your privacy settings:

      • Public – Everyone on the internet can see and comment on the transaction.
      • Friends – Only your Venmo friends and the other participant’s friends can see and comment on the transaction. (Note that the friends of the other participant might be strangers to you, so “friends and friends of friends” is more accurate here.)
      • Private – Here, only the participants can view and comment on the transaction.

      This brings up the question, what if the participants in the transaction have different privacy settings? Venmo uses the most restrictive one. So, if you’re paying someone who has their privacy set to “Public” and you have yours set to “Private,” the transaction will indeed be private.

      We suggest going private with your account. The less financial information you share, the better. You can set your transactions to private by heading into the Settings of the Venmo app, tapping on Privacy, and then selecting Private.

      In short, just because something is designed to be social doesn’t mean it should become a treasure trove of personal data about your spending habits.

      Add extra layers of security. Take extra precautions that make it difficult for others to access your Venmo app.

      • First off, lock your phone. Whether with a PIN or other form of protection, locking your phone prevents access to everything you keep on it, which is important in the case of loss or theft. Our own research found that only 58% of adults take the vital step of locking their phones. If you fall into the 42% of people who don’t, strongly consider changing that.
      • Within the Venmo app, you can also enable Face ID and a PIN (on iOS) or a PIN and biometric unlock (Android). These add a further layer of security by asking for identification each time you open the app. That way, even if someone gets access to your phone, they’ll still have to leap through that security hurdle to access your Venmo app.
      • Use a strong, unique password for your account. That’s a password with at least 13 characters using a mix of cases, numbers, and symbols that you don’t use anywhere else. You can also have a password manager do that work for you across all your accounts.

      Keep your online finances even more secure with the right tools

      Online protection software like ours offers several additional layers of security when it comes to your safety and finances online.

      For starters, it includes Web Protection and Scam Detector that can block malicious and questionable links that might lead you down the road to malware or a phishing scam, such as a phony Venmo link designed to steal your login credentials. It also includes a password manager that creates and stores strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts.

      Moreover, it further protects you by locking down your identity online. Transaction Monitoring and Credit Monitoring help you spot any questionable financial activity quickly. And if identity theft unfortunately happens to you, up to $2 million in ID theft coverage & restoration can help you recover quickly.

      The post Venmo 101: Making Safer Payments with the App appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      This Week in Scams: New Alerts for iPhone and Android Users and a Major Google Crackdown

      By: McAfee — November 14th 2025 at 19:31

      Welcome back to another This Week in Scams.

      This week,  have attacks that take over Androids and iPhones, plus news that Google has gone on the offensive against phishing websites.

      First up, a heads-up for iPhone owners.

      The “We found your iPhone” scam

      In the hands of a scammer, “Find My” can quickly turn into “Scam Me.”

      Switzerland’s National Cyber Security Center (NCSC) shared word this week of a new scam that turns the otherwise helpful “Find My” iOS feature into an avenue of attack.

      Now, the thought of losing your phone, along with all the important and precious things you have on it, is enough to give you goosebumps. Luckily, the “Find My” can help you track it down and even post a personalized message on the lock screen to help with its return. And that’s where the scam kicks in.

      From the NCSC:

      When a device is marked as lost, the owner can display a message on the lock screen containing contact details, such as a phone number or email address. This can be very helpful if the finder is honest – but in dishonest hands, the same information can be used to launch a targeted phishing attack.

      With that, scammers send a targeted phishing text, as seen in the sample provided by the NCSC below …

      A smartphone screenshot showing a fraudulent text message claiming a lost iPhone 14 has been located and instructing the recipient to click a link. A large red diagonal stamp reading “Betrug / Fraud” overlays the message, indicating it is a scam.
      Source: NCSC, Switzerland

      What do the scammers want once you tap that link? They request your Apple ID and password, which effectively hands your phone over to them—along with everything on it and everything else that’s associated with your Apple ID.

      It’s a scam you can easily avoid. So even if you’re still stuck with a lost phone that’s likely in the hands of a scammer the point of consolation is that, without your ID, the phone is useless to them.

      Here’s what the NCSC suggests:

      Ignore such messages. The most important rule is Apple will never contact you by text message or email to inform you that a lost device has been found.

      Never click on links in unsolicited messages or enter your Apple ID credentials on a linked website.

      If you lose your device, act immediately. Enable Lost Mode straight away via the Find My app on another device or at iCloud.com/find. This will lock the device.

      Be careful about which contact details you show on your lost device’s lock screen. For example, use a dedicated email address created specifically for this purpose. Never remove the device from your Apple account, as this would disable the Activation Lock.

      Make sure your SIM card is protected with a PIN. This simple yet effective measure prevents criminals from gaining access to your phone number.

      Android phone takeover scam

      Now, a different attack aimed at Android owners …

      A story shared on Fox this week breaks down how a combination of paid search ads, remote access tools, and social engineering have led to hijacked Android phones.

      It starts with a search, where an Android owner looks up a bank, a tech support company, or what have you. Instead of getting a legitimate result, they get a link to a bogus site via paid search results that appear above organic search results. The link, and the page it takes them to, look quite convincing, given the ease with which scammers can spin up ads and sites today. (More on that next.)

      Once there, they call a support number and get connected to a phony agent. The agent convinces the victim to download an app that will help the “agent” solve their issue with their account or phone. In fact, the app is a remote access tool that gives control of the phone, and everything on it, to the scammer. That means they can steal passwords, send messages to friends, family, or anyone at all, and even go so far as to lock you out.

      Basically, this scam hands over one of your most precious possessions to a scammer.

      Here’s how you can avoid that:

      Skip paid search results for extra security. That’s particularly true when contacting your bank or other companies you’re doing business with. Look for their official website in the organic search results below paid ads. Better yet, contact places like your bank or credit card company by calling the number on the back of your card.

      Get a scam detector. A combination of our Scam Detector and Web Protection can call out sketchy links, like the bogus paid links here. They’ll even block malicious sites if you accidentally tap a bad link.

      Never download apps from third-party sites outside of the Google Play Store. Google has checks in place to spot malicious apps in its store.

      Lastly, never give anyone access to your phone. No bank rep needs it. So if someone on a call asks you to download an app like TeamViewer, AnyDesk, or AirDroid, it’s a scam. Hang up.

      Beyond that, you can protect yourself further by installing an app like our McAfee Security: Antivirus VPN. You can pick it up in the Google Play store, which also includes our Scam Detector and Identity Monitoring. You can also get it as part of your McAfee+ protection.

      Google takes aim at phishing scams with a lawsuit against an alleged criminal organization

      Just Wednesday, Google took a first step toward making the internet safer from bogus sites, per a story filed by National Public Radio.

      A lawsuit alleges that a China-based company called “Lighthouse” runs a “Phishing-as-a-Service” operation that outfits scammers with quick and easy tools and templates for creating convincing-looking websites. According to Google’s general counsel, these sites could “compromise between 12.7 and 115 million credit cards in the U.S. alone.”

      The suit was filed in the U.S. District Court in the Southern District of New York, which, of course, has no jurisdiction over a China-based company. The aim, per Google’s counsel, is deterrence. From the article:

      “It allows us a legal basis on which to go to other platforms and services and ask for their assistance in taking down different components of this particular illegal infrastructure,” she said, without naming which platforms or services Google might focus on. “Even if we can’t get to the individuals, the idea is to deter the overall infrastructure in some cases.”

      We’ll keep an eye on this case as it progresses. And in the meantime, it’s a good reminder to get Scam Detector and Web Protection on all your devices so you don’t get hoodwinked by these increasingly convincing-looking scam sites.

      Again, scammers can roll them out so quickly and easily today.

      And now for a quick roundup …

      Here’s a quick list of a few stories that caught our eye this week:

      Alarmingly realistic deepfake threats now target banks in South Africa

      Nearly 80% of parents fear their kids will fall for an AI scam, but they aren’t sure how to talk about it

      Hyundai data breach exposes 2.7 million Social Security numbers

       

      And that’s it for this week! We’ll see you next Friday with more updates, scam news, and ways you can stay safer out there.

      The post This Week in Scams: New Alerts for iPhone and Android Users and a Major Google Crackdown appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      How to Remove Your Personal Information From the Internet

      By: Jasdev Dhaliwal — October 10th 2025 at 12:31

      Chances are, you have more personal information posted online than you think.

      In 2024, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reported that 1.1 million identity theft complaints were filed, where $12.5 billion was lost to identity theft and fraud overall—a 25% increase over the year prior.

      What fuels all this theft and fraud? Easy access to personal information.

      Here’s one way you can reduce your chances of identity theft: remove your personal information from the internet.

      Scammers and thieves can get a hold of your personal information in several ways, such as information leaked in data breaches, phishing attacks that lure you into handing it over, malware that steals it from your devices, or by purchasing your information on dark web marketplaces, just to name a few.

      However, scammers and thieves have other resources and connections to help them commit theft and fraud—data broker sites, places where personal information is posted online for practically anyone to see. This makes removing your info from these sites so important, from both an identity and privacy standpoint.

      What are data brokers?

      Data broker sites are massive repositories of personal information that also buy information from other data brokers. As a result, some data brokers have thousands of pieces of data on billions of individuals worldwide.

      What kind of data could they have on you? A broker may know how much you paid for your home, your education level, where you’ve lived over the years, who you’ve lived with, your driving record, and possibly your political leanings. A broker could even know your favorite flavor of ice cream and your preferred over-the-counter allergy medicine thanks to information from loyalty cards. They may also have health-related information from fitness apps. The amount of personal information can run that broadly, and that deeply.

      With information at this level of detail, it’s no wonder that data brokers rake in an estimated $200 billion worldwide every year.

      Sources of your information

      Your personal information reaches the internet through six primary methods, most of which are initiated by activities you perform on a daily basis. Understanding these channels can help you make more informed choices about your digital footprint.

      Digitized public records

      When you buy a home, register to vote, get married, or start a business, government agencies create public records that contain your personal details. These records, once stored in filing cabinets, are now digitized, accessible online, and searchable by anyone with an internet connection.

      Social media sharing and privacy gaps

      Every photo you post, location you tag, and profile detail you share contributes to your digital presence. Even with privacy settings enabled, social media platforms collect extensive data about your behavior, relationships, and preferences. You may not realize it, but every time you share details with your network, you are training algorithms that analyze and categorize your information.

      Data breaches

      You create accounts with retailers, healthcare providers, employers, and service companies, trusting them to protect your information. However, when hackers breach these systems, your personal information often ends up for sale on dark web marketplaces, where data brokers can purchase it. The Identity Theft Research Center Annual Data Breach Report revealed that 2024 saw the second-highest number of data compromises in the U.S. since the organization began recording incidents in 2005.

      Apps and ad trackers

      When you browse, shop, or use apps, your online behavior is recorded by tracking pixels, cookies, and software development kits. The data collected—such as your location, device usage, and interests—is packaged and sold to data brokers who combine it with other sources to build a profile of you.

      Loyalty programs

      Grocery store cards, coffee shop apps, and airline miles programs offer discounts in exchange for detailed purchasing information. Every transaction gets recorded, analyzed, and often shared with third-party data brokers, who then create detailed lifestyle profiles that are sold to marketing companies.

      Data broker aggregators

      Data brokers act as the hubs that collect information from various sources to create comprehensive profiles that may include over 5,000 data points per person. Seemingly separate pieces of information become a detailed digital dossier that reveals intimate details about your life, relationships, health, and financial situation.

      The users of your information

      Legally, your aggregated information from data brokers is used by advertisers to create targeted ad campaigns. In addition, law enforcement, journalists, and employers may use data brokers because the time-consuming pre-work of assembling your data has largely been done.

      Currently, the U.S. has no federal laws that regulate data brokers or require them to remove personal information if requested. Only a few states, such as Nevada, Vermont, and California, have legislation that protects consumers. In the European Union, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) has stricter rules about what information can be collected and what can be done with it.

      On the darker side, scammers and thieves use personal information for identity theft and other forms of fraud. With enough information, they can create a high-fidelity profile of their victims to open new accounts in their name. For this reason, cleaning up your personal information online makes a great deal of sense.

      Types of personal details to remove online

      Understanding efforts to remove personal information, which data types pose the greatest threat, can help you prioritize your removal efforts. Here are the high-risk personal details you should target first, ranked by their potential for harm.

      Highest priority: Identity theft goldmines

      • Social Security Number (SSN) with full name and address: This combination provides everything criminals need for identity theft, leading to fraudulent credit accounts, tax refund theft, and employment fraud that may take years to resolve, according to the FTC.
      • Financial account information: Bank account numbers, credit card details, and investment account information enable direct financial theft. Even partial account numbers can be valuable when combined with other personal details from data breaches.
      • Driver’s license and government-issued ID information: These serve as primary identity verification for many services and can be used to bypass security measures at financial institutions and government agencies.

      High priority: Personal identifiers

      • Full name combined with home address: This pairing makes you vulnerable to targeted scams and physical threats, while enabling criminals to gather additional information about your household and family members.
      • Date of birth: Often used as a security verification method, your date of birth, combined with other identifiers, can unlock accounts and enable age-related targeting for scams.
      • Phone numbers: This information enables SIM swapping, where criminals take control of your phone number to bypass two-factor authentication and access your accounts.

      Medium-high priority: Digital and health data

      • Email addresses: Your primary email serves as the master key to password resets across multiple accounts. In contrast, secondary emails can reveal personal interests and connections that criminals exploit in social engineering.
      • Medical and health app data: This is highly sensitive information that can be used for insurance discrimination, employment issues, or targeted health-related scams.
      • Location data and photos with metadata: Reveals your daily patterns, workplace, home address, and frequented locations. Photos with embedded GPS coordinates can reveal your exact location and potentially enable stalking or burglary.

      Medium priority: Account access points

      • Usernames and account handles: These help criminals map your digital footprint across platforms to discover your personal interests, connections, and even potential security questions and answers. They also enable account impersonation and social engineering against your contacts.

      When prioritizing your personal information removal efforts, focus on combinations of data rather than individual pieces. For example, your name alone poses minimal risk, but when combined with your address, phone number, and date of birth, it creates a comprehensive profile that criminals can exploit. Tools such as McAfee Personal Data Cleanup can help you identify and systematically remove these high-risk combinations from data broker sites.

      Step-by-step guide to finding your personal data online

      1. Targeted search queries: Search for your full name in quotes (“John Smith”), then combine it with your city, phone number, or email address. Try variations like “John Smith” + “123 Main Street” or “John Smith” + “555-0123”. Don’t forget to search for old usernames, maiden names, or nicknames you’ve used online. Aside from Google, you can also check Bing, DuckDuckGo, and people search engines.
      2. Major data broker and people search sites: Search for yourself in common data aggregators: Whitepages, Spokeo, BeenVerified, Intelius, PeopleFinder, and Radaris. Take screenshots of what you find as documentation. To make this process manageable, McAfee Personal Data Cleanup scans some of the riskiest data broker sites and shows you which ones are selling your personal info.
      3. Social media platforms and old accounts: Review your Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, and other platforms for publicly visible personal details. Check old accounts—dating sites, forums, gaming platforms, or professional networks. Look for biographical information, location data, contact details, photos, and even comment sections where you may have shared details.
      4. Breach and dark web monitoring tools: Have I Been Pwned and other identity monitoring services can help you scan the dark web and discover if your email addresses or phone numbers appear in data breaches.
      5. Ongoing monitoring alerts: Create weekly Google Alerts for your and your family members’ full names, address combinations, and phone numbers. Some specialized monitoring services can track once your information appears on new data broker sites or gets updated on existing ones.
      6. Document everything in a tracker: Create a spreadsheet or document to systematically track your findings. Include the website name and URL, the specific data shown, contact information for removal requests, date of your opt-out request, and follow-up dates. Many sites require multiple follow-ups, so having this organized record is essential for successful removal.

      This process takes time and persistence, but services such as McAfee Personal Data Cleanup can continuously monitor for new exposures and manage opt-out requests on your behalf. The key is to first understand the full scope of your online presence before beginning the removal process.

      Remove your personal information from the internet

      Let’s review some ways you can remove your personal information from data brokers and other sources on the internet.

      Request to remove data from data broker sites

      Once you have found the sites that have your information, the next step is to request that it be removed. You can do this yourself or employ services such as McAfee’s Personal Data Cleanup, which can help manage the removal for you depending on your subscription. ​It also monitors those sites, so if your info gets posted again, you can request its removal again.

      Limit the data Google collects

      You can request to remove your name from Google search to limit your information from turning up in searches. You can also enable “Auto Delete” in your privacy settings to ensure your data is regularly deleted. Occasionally, deleting your cookies or browsing in incognito mode prevents websites from tracking you. If Google denies your initial request, you can appeal using the same tool, providing more context, documentation, or legal grounds for removal. Google’s troubleshooter tool may explain why your request was denied—either legitimate public interest or newsworthiness—and how to improve your appeal.

      It’s important to know that the original content remains on the source website. You’ll still need to contact website owners directly to have your actual content removed. Additionally, the information may still appear in other search engines.

      Delete old social media accounts

      If you have old, inactive accounts that have become obsolete, such as Myspace or Tumblr, you may want to deactivate or delete them entirely. For social media platforms that you use regularly, such as Facebook and Instagram, consider adjusting your privacy settings to keep your personal information to the bare minimum.

      Remove personal info from websites and blogs

      If you’ve ever published articles, written blogs, or created any content online, it is a good time to consider taking them down if they no longer serve a purpose. If you were mentioned or tagged by other people, it is worth requesting them to take down posts with sensitive information.

      Delete unused apps and restrict permissions in those you use

      Another way to tidy up your digital footprint is to delete phone apps you no longer use, as hackers are able to track personal information on these and sell it. As a rule, share as little information with apps as possible using your phone’s settings.

      Remove your info from other search engines

      • Bing: Submit removal requests through Bing’s Content Removal tool for specific personal information like addresses, phone numbers, or sensitive data. Note that Bing primarily crawls and caches content from other websites, so removing the original source content first will prevent re-indexing.
      • Yahoo: Yahoo Search results are powered by Bing, so use the same Bing Content Removal process. For Yahoo-specific services, contact their support team to request the removal of cached pages and personal information from search results.
      • DuckDuckGo and other privacy-focused engines: These search engines don’t store personal data or create profiles, but pull results from multiple sources. We suggest that you focus on removing content from the original source websites, then request the search engines to update their cache to prevent your information from reappearing in future crawls.

      Escalate if needed

      After sending your removal request, give the search engine or source website 7 to 10 business days to respond initially, then follow up weekly if needed. If a website owner doesn’t respond within 30 days or refuses your request, you have several escalation options:

      • Contact the hosting provider: Web hosts often have policies against sites that violate privacy laws
      • File complaints: Report to your state attorney general’s office or the Federal Trade Commission
      • Seek legal guidance: For persistent cases involving sensitive information, consult with a privacy attorney

      For comprehensive guidance on website takedown procedures and your legal rights, visit the FTC’s privacy and security guidance for the most current information on consumer data protection. Direct website contact can be time-consuming, but it’s often effective for removing information from smaller sites that don’t appear on major data broker opt-out lists. Stay persistent, document everything, and remember that you have legal rights to protect your privacy online.

      Remove your information from browsers

      After you’ve cleaned up your data from websites and social platforms, your web browsers may still save personal information, such as your browsing history, cookies, autofill data, saved passwords, and even payment methods. Clearing this information and adjusting your privacy settings helps prevent tracking, reduces targeted ads, and limits the amount of personal data websites can collect about you.

      • Clear your cache: Clearing your browsing data is usually done by going to Settings and looking for the Privacy and Security section, depending on the specific browser. This is applicable in Google Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Microsoft Edge, as well as mobile phone operating systems such as Android and iOS.
      • Disable autofill: Autofill provides the convenience of not having to type your information every time you complete a form. That convenience has a risk, though, autofill saves addresses, phone numbers, and even payment methods. To prevent websites from automatically populating forms with your sensitive data, disable the autofill settings independently. For better security, consider using a dedicated password manager instead of browser-based password storage.
      • Set up automatic privacy protection: Set up your browsers to automatically clear cookies, cache, and site data when you close them. This ensures your browsing sessions don’t leave permanent traces of your personal information on your device.
      • Use privacy-focused search engines: Consider using privacy-focused search engines like DuckDuckGo as your default. These proactive steps significantly reduce the amount of personal information that browsers collect and store about your online activities.

      Get your address off the internet

      When your home address is publicly available, it can expose you to risks like identity theft, stalking, or targeted scams. Taking steps to remove or mask your address across data broker sites, public records, and even old social media profiles helps protect your privacy, reduce unwanted contact, and keep your personal life more secure.

      1. Opt out of major data broker sites: The biggest address exposers are Whitepages, Spokeo, and BeenVerified. Visit their opt-out pages and submit removal requests using your full name and current address. Most sites require email verification and process removals within 7-14 business days.
      2. Contact public records offices about address redaction: Many county and state databases allow address redaction for safety reasons. File requests with your local clerk’s office, voter registration office, and property records department. Complete removal isn’t always possible, but some jurisdictions offer partial address masking.
      3. Enable WHOIS privacy protection on domain registrations: If you own any websites or domains, request your domain registrar to add privacy protection services to replace your personal address with the registrar’s information.
      4. Review old forums and social media profiles: Check your profiles on forums, professional networks, and social platforms where you may have shared your address years ago. Delete or edit posts containing location details, and update bio sections to remove specific address information.
      5. Verify removal progress: Every month, do a search of your name and address variations on different search engines. You can also set up Google Alerts to monitor and alert you when new listings appear. Most data broker removals need to be renewed every 6-12 months as information gets re-aggregated.

      The cost to delete your information from the internet

      The cost to remove your personal information from the internet varies, depending on whether you do it yourself or use a professional service. Read the guide below to help you make an informed decision:

      DIY approach

      Removing your information on your own primarily requires time investment. Expect to spend 20 to 40 hours looking for your information online and submitting removal requests. In terms of financial costs, most data brokers may not charge for opting out; however, other expenses could include certified mail fees for formal removal requests, which range from $3 to $8 per letter, and possibly notarization fees for legal documents. In total, this effort can be substantial when dealing with dozens of sites.

      Professional removal services

      Depending on which paid removal and monitoring service you employ, basic plans typically range from $8 to $25 monthly, while annual plans, which often provide better value, range from $100 to $600. Premium services that monitor hundreds of data broker sites and provide ongoing removal can cost $1,200-$2,400 annually.

      The difference in pricing is driven by several factors. This includes the number of data broker sites to be monitored, which could cover more than 200 sites, and the scope of removal requests, which may include basic personal information or comprehensive family protection. The monitoring frequency and additional features, such as dark web monitoring, credit protection, identity restoration support, and insurance coverage, typically command higher prices.

      The value of continuous monitoring

      The upfront cost may seem significant, but continuous monitoring provides essential value. A McAfee survey revealed that 95% of consumers’ personal information ends up on data broker sites without their consent. It is possible that after the successful removal of your information, it may reappear on data broker sites without ongoing monitoring. This makes continuous protection far more cost-effective than repeated one-time cleanups.

      Services such as McAfee Personal Data Cleanup can prove invaluable, as it handles the initial removal process, as well as ongoing monitoring to catch when your information resurfaces, saving you time and effort while offering long-term privacy protection.

      Aside from the services above, comprehensive protection software can help safeguard your privacy and minimize your exposure to cybercrime with these offerings, such as:

      • An unlimited virtual private network to make your personal information much more difficult to collect and track
      • Identity monitoring that tracks and alerts you if your specific personal information is found on the dark web
      • Identity theft coverage and restoration helps you pay for legal fees and travel expenses, and further assistance from a licensed recovery pro to repair your identity and credit
      • Other features, such as safe browsing to help you avoid dangerous links, bad downloads, malicious websites, and more online threats when you’re online

      So while it may seem like all this rampant collecting and selling of personal information is out of your hands, there’s plenty you can do to take control. With the steps outlined above and strong online protection software in place, you can keep your personal information more private and secure.

      Essential steps if your information is found on the dark web

      Unlike legitimate data broker sites, the dark web operates outside legal boundaries where takedown requests don’t apply. Rather than trying to remove information that’s already circulating, you can take immediate steps to reduce the potential harm and focus on preventing future exposure. A more effective approach is to treat data breaches as ongoing security issues rather than one-time events.

      Both the FTC and Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency have released guidelines on proactive controls and continuous monitoring. Here are the key steps of those recommendations:

      1. Change your passwords immediately and enable multi-factor authentication. Start with your most critical accounts—banking, email, and any services linked to financial information. Create unique, strong passwords for each account and enable MFA where possible for an extra layer of protection.
      2. Monitor your financial accounts and credit reports closely. Check your bank statements, credit card accounts, and investment accounts for any unauthorized activity. Request your free annual credit reports from all three major bureaus and carefully review them for accounts you didn’t open or activities you don’t recognize.
      3. Place fraud alerts or credit freezes. Contact Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion to place fraud alerts, which require creditors to verify your identity before approving new accounts. Better yet, consider a credit freeze to block access to your credit report entirely until you lift it.
      4. Replace compromised identification documents if necessary. If your Social Security number, driver’s license, or passport information was exposed, contact the appropriate agencies to report the breach and request new documents. IdentityTheft.gov provides step-by-step guidance for replacing compromised documents.
      5. Set up ongoing identity monitoring and protection. Consider using identity monitoring services that scan the dark web and alert you to new exposures of your personal information.
      6. Document everything and report the incident. Keep detailed records of any suspicious activities you discover and all steps you’ve taken. File a report with the FTC and police, especially if you’ve experienced financial losses. This documentation will be crucial for disputing fraudulent charges or accounts.

      Legal and practical roadblocks

      As you go about removing your information from the internet, it is important to set realistic expectations. Several factors may limit how completely you can remove personal data from internet sources:

      • The United States lacks comprehensive federal privacy laws requiring companies to delete personal information upon request.
      • Public records, court documents, and news articles often have legal protections that prevent removal.
      • International websites may not comply with U.S. deletion requests.
      • Cached copies could remain on search engines and archival sites for years.
      • Data brokers frequently repopulate their databases from new sources even after opt-outs.

      While some states like California have stronger consumer privacy rights, most data removal still depends on voluntary compliance from companies.

      Final thoughts

      Removing your personal information from the internet takes effort, but it’s one of the most effective ways to protect yourself from identity theft and privacy violations. The steps outlined above provide you with a clear roadmap to systematically reduce your online exposure, from opting out of data brokers to tightening your social media privacy settings.

      This isn’t a one-time task but an ongoing process that requires regular attention, as new data appears online constantly. Rather than attempting to completely erase your digital presence, focus on reducing your exposure to the most harmful uses of your personal information. Services like McAfee Personal Data Cleanup can help automate the most time-consuming parts of this process, monitoring high-risk data broker sites and managing removal requests for you.

      The post How to Remove Your Personal Information From the Internet appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      Bitcoin Security: Mining Threats You Need to Know

      By: Jasdev Dhaliwal — July 21st 2025 at 04:01
      Working from home

      The value of Bitcoin has had its ups and downs since its inception in 2013, but its recent skyrocket in value has created renewed interest in this virtual currency. The rapid growth of this alternative currency has dominated headlines and ignited a cryptocurrency boom that has consumers everywhere wondering how to get a slice of the Bitcoin pie. For those who want to join the craze without trading traditional currencies like U.S. dollars (i.e., fiat currency), a process called Bitcoin mining is an entry point. However, Bitcoin mining poses a number of security risks that you need to know.

      What Is Bitcoin Mining?

      Mining for Bitcoin is like mining for gold—you put in the work and you get your reward. But instead of back-breaking labor, you earn the currency with your time and computer processing power. Miners, as they are called, essentially maintain and secure Bitcoin’s decentralized accounting system. Bitcoin transactions are recorded in a digital ledger called a blockchain. Bitcoin miners update the ledger by downloading a special piece of software that allows them to verify and collect new transactions. Then, they must solve a mathematical puzzle to secure access to add a block of transactions to the chain. In return, they earn Bitcoins, as well as a transaction fee.

      What Are Bitcoin Security Risks?

      As the digital currency has matured, Bitcoin mining has become more challenging. In the beginning, a Bitcoin user could mine on their home computer and earn a good amount of the digital currency, but these days the math problems have become so complicated that it requires a lot of expensive computing power. This is where the risks come in. Since miners need an increasing amount of computer power to earn Bitcoin, some have started compromising public Wi-Fi networks so they can access users’ devices.

      One example of this security breach happened at a coffee shop in Buenos Aires, which was infected with malware that caused a 10-second delay when logging in to the cafe’s Wi-Fi network. The malware authors used this time delay to access the users’ laptops for mining. In addition to public Wi-Fi networks, millions of websites are being compromised to access users’ devices for mining. When an attacker loads mining software onto devices without the owner’s permission, it’s called a cryptocurrency mining encounter or cryptojacking.

      It’s estimated that 50 out of every 100,000 devices have encountered a cryptocurrency miner. Cryptojacking is a widespread problem and can slow down your device; though, that’s not the worst that can happen. Utility costs are also likely to go through the roof. A device that is cryptojacked could have 100 percent of its resources used for mining, causing the device to overheat, essentially destroying it.

      What Are Some Bitcoin Privacy Tips?

      Now that you know a little about mining and the Bitcoin security risks associated with it, here are some tips to keep your devices safe as you monitor the cryptocurrency market:

      • Avoid public Wi-Fi networks: These networks often aren’t secured, opening your device and information up to a number of threats.
      • Use a VPN: If you’re away from your secure home or work network, consider using a virtual private network (VPN). A VPN is a piece of software that gives you a secure connection to the Internet, so that third parties cannot intercept or read your data. A product like McAfee+ can help safeguard your online privacy no matter where you go.
      • Secure your devices: New Bitcoin threats, security concerns, and malware are emerging all of the time. Protect your devices and information with comprehensive security software

      The post Bitcoin Security: Mining Threats You Need to Know appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      How Agentic AI Will Be Weaponized for Social Engineering Attacks

      By: Amy Bunn — November 17th 2025 at 19:00

      We’re standing at the threshold of a new era in cybersecurity threats. While most consumers are still getting familiar with ChatGPT and basic AI chatbots, cybercriminals are already moving to the next frontier: Agentic AI. Unlike the AI tools you may have tried that simply respond to your questions, these new systems can think, plan, and act independently, making them the perfect digital accomplices for sophisticated scammers. The next evolution of cybercrime is here, and it’s learning to think for itself.

      The threat is already here and growing rapidly. According to McAfee’s latest State of the Scamiverse report, the average American sees more than 14 scams every day, including an average of 3 deepfake videos. Even more concerning, detected deepfakes surged tenfold globally in the past year, with North America alone experiencing a 1,740% increase.

      At McAfee, we’re seeing early warning signs of this shift, and we believe every consumer needs to understand what’s coming. The good news? By learning about these emerging threats now, you can protect yourself before they become widespread.

      A Real-World Example: How Anthropic’s Claude AI Was Used for Espionage

      A new case disclosed by Anthropic, first reported by Axios, marks a turning point: a Chinese state-sponsored group used the company’s Claude Code agent to automate the majority of an espionage campaign across nearly thirty organizations. Attackers allegedly bypassed guardrails through jailbreaking techniques, fed the model fragmented tasks, and convinced it that it was conducting defensive security tests. Once operational, the agent performed reconnaissance, wrote exploit code, harvested credentials, identified high-value databases, created backdoors, and generated documentation of the intrusion. In all, they completed 80–90% of the work without any human involvement.

      This is the first publicly documented case of an AI agent running a large-scale intrusion with minimal human direction. It validates our core warning: agentic AI dramatically lowers the barrier to sophisticated attacks and turns what was once weeks of human labor into minutes of autonomous execution. While this case targeted major companies and government entities, the same capabilities can, and likely will, be adapted for consumer-focused scams, identity theft, and social engineering campaigns.

      Understanding AI: From Simple Tools to Autonomous Agents

      Before we dive into the threats, let’s break down what we’re actually talking about when we discuss AI and its evolution:

      Traditional AI: The Helper

      The AI most people know today works like a very sophisticated search engine or writing assistant. You ask it a question, it gives you an answer. You request help with a task, it provides suggestions. Think of ChatGPT, Google’s Gemini, or the AI features on your smartphone. They’re reactive tools that respond to your input but don’t take independent action.

      Generative AI: The Creator

      Generative AI, which powers many current scams, can create content like emails, images, or even fake videos (deepfakes). This technology has already made scams more convincing by cloning real human voices and eliminating telltale signs like poor grammar and obvious language errors.

      The impact is already visible in the data. McAfee Labs found that for just $5 and 10 minutes of setup time, scammers can create powerful, realistic-looking deepfake video and audio scams using readily available tools. What once required experts weeks to produce can now be achieved for less than the cost of a latte—and in less time than it takes to drink it.

      Agentic AI: The Independent Actor

      Agentic AI represents a fundamental leap forward. These systems can think, make decisions, learn from mistakes, and work together to solve tough problems, just like a team of human experts. Unlike previous AI that waits for your commands, agentic AI can set its own goals, make plans to achieve them, and adapt when circumstances change

      Key Characteristics of Agentic AI:

      • Autonomous operation: Works without constant human guidance from a cybercriminal
      • Goal-oriented behavior: Actively pursues specific objectives without requiring regular input.
      • Adaptive learning: Improves performance based on experience through previous attempts.
      • Multi-step planning: Can execute complex, long-term strategies based on the requirements of the criminal.
      • Environmental awareness: Understands and responds to changing conditions online.

      Gartner predicts that by 2028, a third of our interactions with AI will shift from simply typing commands to fully engaging with autonomous agents that can act on their own goals and intentions. Unfortunately, cybercriminals won’t be far behind in exploiting these capabilities.

      The Scammer’s Apprentice: How Agentic AI Becomes the Perfect Criminal Assistant

      Think of agentic AI as giving scammers their own team of tireless, intelligent apprentices that never sleep, never make mistakes, and get better at their job every day. Here’s how this digital apprenticeship makes scams exponentially more dangerous.

      Traditional scammers spend hours manually researching targets, scrolling through social media profiles, and piecing together personal information. Agentic AI recon agents operate persistently and autonomously, self-prompting questions like “What data do I need to identify a weak point in this organization?” and then collecting it from social media, breach data, exposed APIs and cloud misconfigurations.

      What The Scammer’s Apprentice Can Do

      • Continuous surveillance: Monitors your social media posts, job changes, and online activity 24/7.
      • Pattern recognition: Identifies your routines, interests, and vulnerabilities from scattered digital breadcrumbs.
      • Relationship mapping: Understands your connections, colleagues, and family relationships.
      • Behavioral analysis: Learns from your communication style, preferred platforms, and response patterns.

      Unlike traditional phishing that uses static messages, agentic AI can dynamically update or alter their approach based on a recipient’s response, location, holidays, events, or the target’s interests, marking a significant shift from static attacks to highly adaptive and real-time social engineering threats.

      An agentic AI scammer targeting you might start with a LinkedIn message about a job opportunity. If you don’t respond, it switches to an email about a package delivery. If that fails, it tries a text message about suspicious account activity. Each attempt uses lessons learned from your previous reactions, becoming more convincing with every interaction.

      AI-generated phishing emails achieve a 54% click-through rate compared to just 12% for their human-crafted counterparts. With agentic AI, scammers can create messages that don’t just look professional, they sound exactly like the people and organizations you trust.

      The technology is already sophisticated enough to fool even cautious consumers. As McAfee’s latest research shows, social media users shared over 500,000 deepfakes in 2023 alone. The tools have become so accessible that scammers can now create convincing real-time avatars for video calls, allowing them to impersonate anyone from your boss to your bank representative during live conversations.

      Advanced Impersonation Capabilities:

      • Voice cloning: Create phone calls that sound exactly like your boss, family member, senator, or bank representative
      • Writing style mimicry: Craft emails that perfectly match your company’s communication style.
      • Visual deepfakes: Generate fake video calls for “face-to-face” verification.
      • Context awareness: Reference specific projects, recent conversations, or personal details

      Perhaps most concerning is agentic AI’s ability to learn and improve. As the AI interacts with more victims over time, it gathers data on what types of messages or approaches work best for certain demographics, adapting itself and refining future campaigns to make each subsequent attack more powerful, convincing, and effective. This means that every failed scam attempt makes the AI smarter for its next victim. Understanding how agentic AI will transform specific types of scams helps us prepare for what’s coming. Here are the most concerning developments:

      Multi-Stage Campaign Orchestration

      Agentic AI can potentially orchestrate complex multi-stage social engineering attacks, leveraging data from one interaction to drive the next one. Instead of simple one-and-done phishing emails, expect sophisticated campaigns that unfold over weeks or months.

      Automated Spear Phishing at Scale

      Traditional spear phishing required manual research and customization for each target. In the new world order, malicious AI agents will autonomously harvest data from social media profiles, craft phishing messages, and tailor them to individual targets without human intervention. This means cybercriminals can now launch thousands of highly personalized attacks simultaneously, each one crafted specifically for its intended victim.

      Real-Time Adaptive Attacks

      When a target hesitates or questions an initial approach, agents adjust their tactics immediately based on the response. This continuous refinement makes each interaction more convincing than the last, wearing down even skeptical targets through persistence and learning. Traditional red flags like “This seems suspicious” or “Let me verify this” no longer end the attack, they just trigger the AI to try a different approach.

      Cross-Platform Coordination

      These autonomous systems now independently launch coordinated phishing campaigns across multiple channels simultaneously, operating with an efficiency human attackers cannot match. An agentic AI scammer might contact you via email, text message, phone call, and social media—all as part of a coordinated campaign designed to overwhelm your defenses.

      How to Protect Yourself in the Age of Agentic AI Scams

      The rise of agentic AI scams requires a fundamental shift in how we think about cybersecurity. Traditional advice like “watch for poor grammar” no longer applies. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself:

      • The Golden Rule: Never act on urgent requests without independent verification, no matter how convincing they seem.
      • Use different communication channels: If someone emails you, call them back using a number you look up independently
      • Verify through trusted contacts: When your “boss” asks for something unusual, confirm with colleagues or HR
      • Check official websites: Go directly to company websites rather than clicking links in messages
      • Trust your instincts: If something feels off, it probably is—even if you can’t identify exactly why

      Understanding a New Era of Red Flags

      Since agentic AI eliminates traditional warning signs, focus on these behavioral red flags:

      High-Priority Warning Signs:

      Emotional urgency: Messages designed to make you panic, feel guilty, or act without thinking

      Requests for unusual actions: Being asked to do something outside normal procedures

      Isolation tactics: Instructions not to tell anyone else or to handle something “confidentially”

      Multiple contact attempts: Being contacted through several channels about the same issue

      Perfect personalization: Messages that seem to know too much about your specific situation

      How McAfee Fights AI with AI: Your Defense Against Agentic Threats

      At McAfee, we understand that fighting AI-powered attacks requires AI-powered defenses. Our security solutions are designed to detect and stop sophisticated scams before they reach you. McAfee’s Scam Detector provides lightning-fast alerts, automatically spotting scams and blocking risky links even if you click them, with all-in-one protection that keeps you safer across text, email, and video. Our AI analyzes incoming messages using advanced pattern recognition that can identify AI-generated content, even when it’s grammatically perfect and highly personalized.

      Scam Detector keeps you safer across text, email, and video, providing comprehensive coverage against multi-channel agentic AI campaigns. Beyond analyzing message content, our system evaluates sender behavior patterns, communication timing, and request characteristics that may indicate AI-generated scams. Just as agentic AI attacks learn and evolve, our detection systems continuously improve their ability to identify new threat patterns.

      Protecting yourself from agentic AI scams requires combining smart technology with informed human judgment. Security experts believe it’s highly likely that bad actors have already begun weaponizing agentic AI, and the sooner organizations and individuals can build up defenses, train awareness, and invest in stronger security controls, the better they will be equipped to outpace AI-powered adversaries.

      We’re entering an era of AI versus AI, where the speed and sophistication of both attacks and defenses will continue to escalate. According to IBM’s 2025 Threat Intelligence Index, threat actors are pursuing bigger, broader campaigns than in the past, partly due to adopting generative AI tools that help them carry out more attacks in less time.

      Hope in Human + AI Collaboration

      While the threat landscape is evolving rapidly, the combination of human intelligence and AI-powered security tools gives us powerful advantages. Humans excel at recognizing context, understanding emotional manipulation, and making nuanced judgments that AI still struggles with. When combined with AI’s ability to process vast amounts of data and detect subtle patterns, this creates a formidable defense.

      Staying Human in an AI World

      The rise of agentic AI represents both a significant threat and an opportunity. While cybercriminals will certainly exploit these technologies to create more sophisticated scams, we’re not defenseless. By understanding how these systems work, recognizing the new threat landscape, and combining human wisdom with AI-powered protection tools like McAfee‘s Scam Detector, we can stay ahead of the threats.

      The key insight is that while AI can mimic human communication and behavior with unprecedented accuracy, it still relies on exploiting fundamental human psychology—our desire to help, our fear of consequences, and our tendency to trust. By developing better awareness of these psychological vulnerabilities and implementing verification protocols that don’t depend on technological red flags, we can maintain our security even as the threats become more sophisticated.

      Remember: in the age of agentic AI, the most important security tool you have is still your human judgment. Trust your instincts, verify before you act, and never let urgency override prudence, no matter how convincing the request might seem.

      The post How Agentic AI Will Be Weaponized for Social Engineering Attacks appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      How to Scan for Viruses and Confirm Your Device Is Safe

      By: McAfee — May 19th 2025 at 10:23

      New online threats emerge every day, putting our personal information, money and devices at risk. In its 2024 Internet Crime Report, the Federal Bureau of Investigation reports that 859,532 complaints of suspected internet crime—including ransomware, viruses and malware, data breaches, denials of service, and other forms of cyberattack—resulted in losses of over $16 billion—a 33% increase from 2023.

      That’s why it is essential to stay ahead of these threats. One way to combat these is by conducting virus scans using proven software tools that constantly monitor and check your devices while safeguarding your sensitive information. In this article, we’ll go through everything you need to know to run a scan effectively to keep your computers, phones and tablets in tip-top shape.

      What does a virus scan do?

      Whether you think you might have a virus on your computer or devices or just want to keep them running smoothly, it’s easy to do a virus scan.

      Each antivirus program works a little differently, but in general the software will look for known malware with specific characteristics, as well as their variants that have a similar code base. Some antivirus software even checks for suspicious behavior. If the software comes across a dangerous program or piece of code, the antivirus software removes it. In some cases, a dangerous program can be replaced with a clean one from the manufacturer.

      Unmistakeable signs of a virus in your device

      Before doing a virus scan, it is useful to know the telltale signs of viral presence in your device. Is your device acting sluggish or having a hard time booting up? Have you noticed missing files or a lack of storage space? Have you noticed emails or messages sent from your account that you did not write? Perhaps you’ve noticed changes to your browser homepage or settings? Maybe you’re seeing unexpected pop-up windows, or experiencing crashes and other program errors. These are just some signs that your device may have a virus, but don’t get too worried yet because many of these issues can be resolved with a virus scan.

      Are free virus scanner tools safe and sufficient?

      Free virus scanner tools, both in web-based and downloadable formats, offer a convenient way to perform a one-time check for malware. They are most useful when you need a second opinion or are asking yourself, “do I have a virus?” after noticing something suspect.

      However, it’s critical to be cautious. For one, cybercriminals often create fake “free” virus checker tools that are actually malware in disguise. If you opt for free scanning tools, it is best to lean on highly reputable cybersecurity brands. On your app store or browser, navigate to a proven online scanning tool with good reviews or a website whose URL starts with “https” to confirm you are in a secure location.

      Secondly, free tools are frequently quite basic and perform only the minimum required service. If you choose to go this path, look for free trial versions that offer access to the full suite of premium features, including real-time protection, a firewall, and a VPN. This will give you a glimpse of a solution’s comprehensive, multi-layered security capability before you commit to a subscription.

      Cloud-based virus solutions

      If safeguarding all your computers and mobile devices individually sounds overwhelming, you can opt for comprehensive security products that protect computers, smartphones and tablets from a central, cloud-based hub, making virus prevention a breeze. Many of these modern antivirus solutions are powered by both local and cloud-based technologies to reduce the strain on your computer’s resources.

      Online virus scan: A step-by-step guide

      This guide will walk you through the simple steps to safely scan your computer using reliable online tools, helping you detect potential threats, and protect your personal data.

      1. Choose a trusted provider

      When selecting the right antivirus software, look beyond a basic virus scan and consider these key features:

      • Real-time protection. This is paramount, as it actively blocks threats before they can execute.
      • An effective solution must also have a minimal performance impact so it doesn’t slow down your device.
      • Look for a program with an intuitive interface that makes it easy to schedule scans and manage settings.
      • The best protection goes beyond a simple virus detector. It should include features such as a firewall, a secure VPN for safe browsing, and identity protection.
      • Look for reliable brands with positive reviews and clear privacy policies, and that provide a powerful virus scanner and proactive protection for both Android and iOS devices.

      2. Initiate the scan

      The process of checking for viruses depends on the device type and its operating system. Generally, however, the virus scanner will display a “Scan” button to start the process of checking your system’s files and apps.

      Here are more specific tips to help you scan your computers, phones and tablets:

      On a Windows computer

      If you use Windows 11, go into “Settings” and drill down to the “Privacy & Security > Windows Security > Virus & Threat Protection” tab, which will indicate if there are actions needed. This hands-off function is Microsoft’s own basic antivirus solution called Windows Defender. Built directly into the operating system and enabled by default, this solution provides a baseline of protection at no extra cost for casual Windows users. However, Microsoft is the first to admit that it lags behind specialized paid products in detecting the very latest zero-day threats.

      On a Mac computer

      Mac computers don’t have a built-in antivirus program, so you will have to download security software to do a virus scan. As mentioned, free antivirus applications are available online, but we recommend investing in trusted software that is proven to protect you from cyberthreats.

      If you decide to invest in more robust antivirus software, running a scan is usually straightforward and intuitive. For more detailed instructions, we suggest searching the software’s help menu or going online and following their step-by-step instructions.

      On smartphones and tablets

      Smartphones and tablets are powerful devices that you likely use for nearly every online operation in your daily life from banking, emailing, messaging, connecting, and storing personal information. This opens your mobile device to getting infected through malicious apps, especially those downloaded from unofficial stores, phishing links sent via text or email, or by connecting to compromised wi-fi networks.

      Regular virus scans with a mobile security software are crucial for protecting your devices. Be aware, however, that Android and IOS operating systems merit distinct solutions.

      Antivirus products for Android devices abound due to this system’s open-source foundation. However, due to Apple’s strong security model, which includes app sandboxing, traditional viruses are rare on iPhones and iPads. However, these devices are not immune to all threats. You can still fall victim to phishing scams, insecure Wi-Fi networks, and malicious configuration profiles. Signs of a compromise can include unusual calendar events, frequent browser redirects, or unexpected pop-ups.

      Apple devices, however, closed platform doesn’t easily accommodate third-party applications, especially unvetted ones. You will most likely find robust and verified antivirus scanning tools on Apple’s official app store.

      Scanning files and attachments safely

      Before you open any downloaded file or email attachment, it’s wise to check it for threats. To perform a targeted virus scan on a single file, simply right-click the file in Windows Explorer or macOS Finder and select the “Scan” option from the context menu to run the integrated virus checker on a suspicious item.

      For an added layer of security, especially involving files from unknown sources, you can use a web-based file-checking service that scans for malware. These websites let you upload a file, which is then analyzed by multiple antivirus engines. Many security-conscious email clients also automatically scan incoming attachments, but a manual scan provides crucial, final-line defense before execution.

      3. Review scan results and take action

      Once the scan is complete, the tool will display a report of any threats it found, including the name of the malware and the location of the infected file. If your antivirus software alerts you to a threat, don’t panic—it means the program is doing its job.

      The first and most critical step is to follow the software’s instructions. It might direct you to quarantine the malicious file to isolate the file in a secure vault where it can no longer cause harm. You can then review the details of the threat provided by your virus scanner and choose to delete the file permanently, which is usually the safest option.

      After the threat is handled, ensure your antivirus software and operating system are fully updated. Finally, run a new, full system virus scan to confirm that all traces of the infection have been eliminated. Regularly backing up your important data to an external drive or cloud service can also be a lifesaver in the event of a serious infection.

      4. Schedule an automatic scan for continuous protection

      The most effective way to maintain your device’s security is to automate your defenses. A quality antivirus suite allows you to easily schedule a regular virus scan so you’re always protected without having to do it manually. A daily quick scan is a great habit for any user; it’s fast and checks the most vulnerable parts of your system. Most antivirus products regularly scan your computer or device in the background, so a manual scan is only needed if you notice something dubious, like crashes or excessive pop-ups. You can also set regular scans on your schedule, but a weekly full scan is ideal.

      Final thoughts

      These days, it is essential to stay ahead of the wide variety of continuously evolving cyberthreats. Your first line of defense against these threats is to regularly conduct a virus scan. You can choose among the many free yet limited-time products or comprehensive, cloud-based solutions.

      While many free versions legitimately perform their intended function, it’s critical to be cautious as these are more often baseline solutions while some are malware in disguise. They also lack the continuous, real-time protection necessary to block threats proactively.

      A better option is to invest in verified, trustworthy, and all-in-one antivirus products like McAfee+ that, aside from its accurate virus scanning tool, also offers a firewall, a virtual private network, and identity protection. For complete peace of mind, upgrading to a paid solution like McAfee Total Protection is essential for proactively safeguarding your devices and data in real-time, 24/7.

      The post How to Scan for Viruses and Confirm Your Device Is Safe appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      Introducing Scam Stories: A McAfee Campaign to End Scam Stigma

      By: Brooke Seipel — May 14th 2025 at 12:56

      When Grey’s Anatomy actor Chris Carmack and musician Erin Slaver tried to order custom patio cushions from what seemed like a trustworthy small business, they thought they were making a simple home upgrade.  

      But after clicking and paying through a special link, the cushions never arrived. Delays turned into excuses, messages went unanswered, and the seller’s account eventually disappeared—along with their money. 

      It was a scam. And like so many others, they were left frustrated, embarrassed, and unsure of what to do next. 

      Now, Chris and Erin are sharing their story—not just to warn others, but to help launch Scam Stories, a McAfee-led movement to end the stigma around being scammed, remind people that it can happen to anyone, and help keep everyone safer online. 

      Real People, Real Stories 

      Scammers win when we stay silent. At McAfee, we believe speaking out about your experience is a brave way to support your community and help others stay safe from scams. 

      Built-in partnership with FightCybercrime.org, the Scam Stories movement invites people to share their scam experiences, end the stigma around being scammed, and build a more informed, supportive community. 

      And Chris and Erin aren’t the only ones speaking up. Our campaign features stories from everyday people who’ve been scammed—and are now helping others by sharing what happened. 

      These scams happened fast—and could happen to anyone. Each one involved tactics that McAfee Scam Detector is designed to catch:

      • Brittany, an elementary school teacher, lost Taylor Swift tickets after clicking a phishing email that looked like a ticket confirmation. Scam Detector could have flagged the email as suspicious and warned her before she engaged.
      • Cory, a wellness coach, tapped a convincing text that appeared to be from his mobile provider. Almost instantly, scammers hijacked his number and shut him out of his accounts. Scam Detector’s text scanning could have alerted him to the malicious link before he clicked.
      • Henry, a college student, was tricked by a fake concert ticket seller on social media. The message looked urgent and real—but Scam Detector could have flagged the text as suspicious due to common scam language and pressure for fast payment, before it reached him.
      • Bradley, a sleep-deprived new dad, received a threatening call from someone posing as the IRS. When they followed up with a phishing email, he panicked—and sent nearly $1,000. Scam Detector could have flagged the impersonation and helped him pause before acting. 

      These stories are powerful reminders that scam prevention starts with awareness. And when people share what happened, it helps others recognize red flags and feel less alone. 

      Why We Partnered With FightCybercrime.org 

      FightCybercrime.org is a nonprofit dedicated to helping people recognize, report, and recover from cybercrime. Their tools, educational materials, and survivor support network make them an ideal partner in our mission. 

      Together with FightCybercrime.org, we’ll be expanding online safety education —and helping more people recover from scams with real support.  

      As part of our collaboration, McAfee is donating $50,000 worth of protection products to individuals going through FightCybercrime.org’s recovery programs and to the staff and volunteers who support them every day. 

      Let’s End the Stigma, Together 

      At McAfee, we believe that scam protection isn’t just about tools—it’s about empowering people with knowledge and support. And that starts by ending the stigma. 

      Scam Stories is here to change the narrative—from shame to strength. With help from public figures like Chris and Erin, and brave individuals across the country, we’re turning painful moments into teachable ones—and helping everyone stay safer online. 

      How to Get Involved 

      McAfee is collecting scam stories and encouraging people to share their experiences on social media using #MyScamStory and #KeepItReal.  

      • Use #MyScamStory and #KeepItReal on social media 
      • Follow along as we amplify survivor voices and help others stay safer 

      Learn more and join the movement at www.mcafee.com/en-us/scam-stories. 

      No one should feel alone or ashamed after being scammed. And the more we talk about scams, the harder it is for scammers to succeed. 

      Scam Stories is here to change the narrative—from shame to strength.

      The post Introducing Scam Stories: A McAfee Campaign to End Scam Stigma appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      Cory’s Scam Story: A Fake Text Nearly Took His Identity

      By: Brooke Seipel — May 14th 2025 at 01:59

      Cory considers himself pretty cautious. But like millions of people juggling packed schedules, one click on a hectic day proved costly. 

      The message looked legit. It said it was from his phone provider. It claimed someone was trying to access his account and urged him to verify via a link. He tapped. And just like that, his phone went dark. 

      “I was in the middle of a busy day and clicked without thinking. My phone stopped working almost immediately.” 

      Cory’s Story 

      What Cory didn’t know was that the message wasn’t from his real cell company—it was from a scammer. The link gave them everything they needed to hijack his phone number. 

      In minutes, someone walked into a brick-and-mortar phone store, bought a new device, and ported Cory’s number to it. That gave them access to two-factor authentication codes, texts, and more. 

      “Suddenly I couldn’t call, text, or access anything that used my phone number. It was terrifying.” 

      As a life coach, Cory communicates with clients constantly—often by text. The idea that someone could impersonate him wasn’t just inconvenient. It was threatening. 

      “I’m a life coach—I talk to clients all day. The thought that someone could impersonate me or access those conversations was awful.” 

      He had to print out directions just to get to a Verizon store and spent nearly six hours recovering his phone number. Though he reset passwords in time to avoid deeper harm, billing issues lingered for months. 

      “It was one click. That’s all it took. I’ll never forget how fast it happened.” 

       How McAfee’s Scam Detector Could Have Helped Prevent the SIM Swap Scam 

      SIM swap scams—like the one Cory experienced—are rising. The scary part? They often start with a single click. That’s where McAfee’s Scam Detector can make all the difference. 

      If Cory had access to McAfee’s Scam Detector, here’s how it could have helped: 

      • Text Scam Detection: McAfee’s Scam Detector proactively scans incoming texts and flags ones that mimic trusted brands like Verizon. 
      • Quick Check: Unsure if a message is legit? Paste it into Scam Detector to get an instant analysis—so you can decide before you click. 
      • Link Protection: If Cory had tapped the scam link, McAfee’s Safe Browsing could have blocked access to the malicious site in real time. 

      Cory’s story is a powerful reminder: even careful people can get caught. The right protection gives you time to pause—and tools to act. 

      How to Avoid Phone Number Porting and SIM Swap Scams 

      To stay ahead of similar scams, here are four critical tips: 

      1. Never click links in texts from unknown numbers.

      Even if it looks like it’s from your phone carrier. Always verify through official apps or websites. 

      2. Turn on multi-factor authentication using an app—not just SMS.

      Scammers target phone numbers for a reason. Authenticator apps like Google Authenticator or Duo offer stronger security. 

      3. Use McAfee’s Scam Detector for real-time protection.

      Whether it’s a text, email, or link, McAfee can spot scam language and risky behavior before you’re compromised. 

      4. Report suspicious texts and lock down your account.

      Call your carrier immediately if your service cuts off suddenly or you see suspicious account changes. 

      One Click Isn’t the End—But It Can Be the Beginning 

      Cory’s quick click could have ended much worse. But what matters most is what happened after. He acted fast. He reset passwords. And now, he speaks out to help others recognize the signs. 

      “Slow down. Trust your gut. It’s okay to pause and double-check—even when you’re in a hurry.” 

      Scammers count on your rush. Slowing down—and having the right tools—can make all the difference. 

      If you’ve experienced a scam, your story can help others avoid the same fate. You’re not alone. 

      Visit our Scam Stories hub to read more scam stories or share your own. 

       

      The post Cory’s Scam Story: A Fake Text Nearly Took His Identity appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      Brittany’s Scam Story: Eras Tour Chaos

      By: Brooke Seipel — May 14th 2025 at 00:33

      Brittany C., a dedicated teacher, had been planning a special night for months. After saving up steadily, she landed four prized tickets to Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour for her and her closest friends. 

      But days before the show, she logged into her account—and the tickets were gone. 

      “I’d been saving for months. I was so excited—and then I logged in and the tickets were just… gone. It felt like someone reached through the screen and took that night away from me.” 

      Brittany’s Story 

      Like many of us, Brittany had received plenty of “your data was part of a breach” emails over the years. But she never expected what happened next. 

      A few days before the tickets disappeared, she had clicked on what she now realizes was a suspicious link. “I clicked one weird link. Nothing happened at the time, so I didn’t think twice,” she said. But that link was the scammer’s way in. 

      Using her reused password and without two-factor authentication on her account, the attacker was able to log in and transfer the tickets out—all without Brittany’s knowledge. 

      The emotional toll hit fast. “The stress was overwhelming,” she says. “Friends had made travel plans, taken time off. I felt like I’d let everyone down.” 

      After a long back and forth with the online ticket sales platform, Brittany managed to recover the tickets. But the damage was done. The experience reshaped how she thinks about online safety. 

      “You can be careful and still get caught. I’m only human—and that’s exactly what scammers count on.” 

       

      How McAfee’s Scam Detector Could Have Helped Prevent the Ticket Scam 

      Brittany’s experience is a textbook example of how a small slip can spiral into a high-stakes scam. McAfee’s Scam Detector is designed to catch those mistakes before they snowball. 

      If she had McAfee’s Scam Detector, here’s how it could have helped: 

      • Malicious Link Detection: McAfee’s Scam Detector automatically scans for scam links and warns users before they click—across text, email, and browser. 
      • Quick Check: If something feels off, users can paste in a suspicious link or message and get an instant scan to see if it’s fake or phishing. 
      • Proactive Alerts: On Android and email, Scam Detector flags dangerous messages before they’re opened. 

      With Scam Detector watching her back, Brittany could have known that the link was dangerous before clicking—and avoided the gut-wrenching scramble to reclaim her tickets. 

       

      How to Avoid Ticket Scams and Malicious Links Online 

      Here are four essential tips to help protect your digital accounts and event tickets: 

      1. Never reuse passwords.

      Use a password manager to create strong, unique passwords for each account—especially ticketing and banking platforms. 

      2. Always turn on two-factor authentication.

      It’s one of the easiest ways to block unauthorized logins—even if someone has your password. 

      3. Think before you click.

      If a message or link seems off, don’t open it. Use McAfee’s Quick Check to scan suspicious links before interacting. 

      4. Use scam detection software for extra protection.

      Tools like McAfee’s Scam Detector offer real-time alerts and background scanning to help prevent phishing, credential theft, and social engineering attacks. 

      Your Story Could Help Someone Else 

      Scams can happen to anyone—even people who do everything right. Brittany’s story is a reminder that vigilance matters, but so does visibility. 

      By telling your story, you’re helping others spot the signs of scams and take steps to protect themselves. 

      At McAfee, we believe there’s no shame in being scammed—only power in sharing.  

      Visit our scam stories hub to read more real scam stories or share your own to help end scam stigma. 

      The post Brittany’s Scam Story: Eras Tour Chaos appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      Henry’s Scam Story: The Social Media Con

      By: Brooke Seipel — May 14th 2025 at 00:07

      Henry A. had been trying for weeks to score a ticket to see Tyler, the Creator in Dallas. Even without a confirmed seat, he headed to the venue hoping for a miracle. And that’s when the message came in—someone nearby claimed to have extra tickets. 

      The seller said he was just outside too. The price? Reasonable enough. The tone? Casual and confident. All Henry had to do was send half the money to hold the tickets. 

      Minutes later, he sent the full $280. 

      “I was already in line—excited, hopeful, and just trying to get in. That made me an easy target.” 

      Henry’s Story 

      At first, the offer felt legitimate. The seller even said his girlfriend was wary of strangers, which seemed believable. But after Henry sent the full amount, the conversation took a turn. 

      “He said his girlfriend didn’t trust me, then suddenly wanted full payment. Then it was someone else offering more. That’s when I knew.” 

      The seller began stalling. Then came a screenshot—another buyer offering a higher price. He pressured Henry to pay more. When Henry refused, the seller blocked him. 

      Just like that, the tickets were gone. So was the money. And Henry and his friend never made it into the show. 

      “I sent $280 and got blocked. We never made it inside.” 

      It wasn’t just the lost money—it was the emotional rollercoaster. The disappointment. The feeling of being tricked right at the door. 

       

      How McAfee’s Scam Detector Could Have Helped Prevent the Ticket Scam 

      Scams like Henry’s are becoming more common—especially around live events. That’s why McAfee’s Scam Detector is built to flag shady behavior before it costs you. 

      If Henry had been using McAfee’s Scam Detector, here’s how it could’ve helped: 

      • Message Pattern Detection: The sudden change in payment terms, pressure to act quickly, and emotional manipulation could have been flagged using AI that detects suspicious language. 
      • Link and Account Scanning: If the seller sent a payment link or sketchy profile, Scam Detector’s Quick Check could’ve flagged it as risky on the spot. 

      “If I’d had something flagging the account or even the language in the messages, it might’ve stopped me in time.” 

       

      How to Avoid Ticket Scams on Social Media and Messaging Apps 

      Want to protect yourself from last-minute ticket scams? Follow these smart tips: 

      1. Don’t pay up front without protection.

      Always use secure payment methods that offer fraud protection—never cash apps or peer-to-peer services for strangers. 

      2. Use scam detection tools before sending money.

      Paste messages or links into McAfee’s Quick Check to analyze them for red flags. 

      3. Watch for changing terms or pressure tactics.

      If someone shifts the deal mid-conversation, it’s a red flag. Real sellers don’t change the price last minute or ask for more money after payment. 

      4. Trust your instincts—and the tech.

      Scammers rely on urgency and excitement. Having McAfee Scam Detector on your phone adds a digital gut check when your real one is clouded. 

      Share Your Story. Help Others Stay Safe. 

      Henry is already spreading the word on social media, warning other fans about concert scams. Now we’re helping amplify his voice—because awareness is one of the most powerful forms of protection. 

      “I’m already trying to warn others on social media. Concert scams are real—and they’re getting more common.” 

      Have a scam story of your own? Don’t keep it to yourself. By sharing what happened, you can help someone else avoid the same fate. 

      Visit our scam stories hub to read more or share your experience. Together, we can end scam stigma and stop scammers in their tracks. 

      The post Henry’s Scam Story: The Social Media Con appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      Bradley’s Scam Story: New Dad vs Fake IRS Call 

      By: Brooke Seipel — May 13th 2025 at 23:38

      Bradley K. was a brand-new dad, sleep-deprived and juggling life with a newborn, when he received a phone call that would change everything. The caller claimed to be from the IRS and said Bradley owed back taxes. If he didn’t pay immediately, they warned, he could be arrested. 

      Unfortunately, it was a tax scam—and one that cost him $800 and left him shaken for months. 

      The IRS Phone Scam That Took Advantage of a Vulnerable Moment 

      Like many Americans, Bradley had just filed his taxes. When the call came through, it seemed believable. The caller knew personal information, spoke with a local accent, and used aggressive tactics to demand fast action. 

      “I had just filed my taxes, so when they told me there was a problem, it didn’t seem completely far-fetched.” 

      Under pressure and running on little sleep, Bradley didn’t stop to verify. He didn’t call his dad—who also happened to be his accountant. Instead, he sent $800 and unknowingly gave scammers access to his bank account. 

      “I was running on barely any sleep with a newborn, and I wasn’t thinking as clearly as I normally would have.” 

      It wasn’t until days later that a friend told him the truth: the IRS never calls demanding immediate payment. By then, it was too late. The money was gone, and Bradley was left feeling embarrassed and anxious. 

      “Even now, almost a year later, I’m constantly on edge, making sure nothing else has been stolen.” 

       

      How McAfee Scam Detector Could Have Helped Prevent the Tax Scam 

      Bradley’s experience is exactly why we created McAfee’s Scam Detector—a smart, AI-powered tool that identifies scams across email, text, and even video. 

      If Bradley had received a scam follow-up message or email while using McAfee’s Scam Detector, the tool could have flagged it automatically—before he ever opened it. He could have also used the Quick Check feature to paste in the message or phone transcript and receive an instant scam analysis. 

      Key features that could have protected Bradley: 

      • Text & Email Scam Detection: Flags suspicious IRS-related messages and explains the red flags. 
      • Quick Check Manual Scan: Lets users upload screenshots or text to instantly check for scam tactics. 
      • AI-Powered Warnings: Detects urgent language, impersonation cues, and phishing patterns in real time. 
      • Customizable Sensitivity Settings: Lets users adjust scam detection levels based on their comfort zone. 

      Best of all? McAfee’s Scam Detector is included at no extra cost with McAfee core plans. 

      How to Avoid Tax Scams: 4 Smart Tips to Stay Safe 

      Here’s how to avoid tax scams like the one that targeted Bradley:

      1) Know the IRS will never call you to demand payment. 

      If someone says you owe money and threatens arrest, it’s a scam. The IRS contacts people by mail first. 

      2) Use McAfee’s Scam Detector for real-time protection. 

      Scan any suspicious email, text, or message using Quick Check before clicking or responding. 

       3) Always take a pause before acting. 

      Scammers rely on urgency. Take a breath, verify the claim independently, and talk to someone you trust. 

       4) Keep scam protection up to date. 

      Enable scam alerts across your devices to stay one step ahead. McAfee Scam Detector works across smartphones, laptops, and tablets. 

       

      Share Your Scam Story to Help End Scam Stigma 

      Bradley’s story is just one of thousands. But too often, people stay silent out of shame or embarrassment. That silence helps scammers win. 

      At McAfee, we believe in highlighting real scam stories—not to scare people but to empower them. These aren’t victims. They’re survivors. 

      Have a story of your own? You’re not alone—and your experience could help someone else. 

      Visit our Scam Stories Hub to share your story and help stop scams in their tracks. 

      The post Bradley’s Scam Story: New Dad vs Fake IRS Call  appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      Interviewing for a Job? Spot a Scam with These Questions

      By: Jasdev Dhaliwal — April 23rd 2025 at 16:06

      Job scams are on the rise. And asking the right questions can help steer you clear of them. 

      That rise in job scams is steep, according to the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Recent data shows that reported losses have grown five times over between 2020 and 2024. In 2024 alone, reported losses hit half a billion dollars, with unreported losses undoubtedly pushing actual losses yet higher. 

      Last week, we covered how “pay to get paid” scams account for a big chunk of online job scams. Here, we’ll cover a couple more that we’ve seen circulating on social media and via texts—and how some pointed questions can help you avoid them. 

      Two classic job scams to look out for 

      The headhunter scam 

      Some job scammers pose as recruiters from job agencies who reach potential victims the same way legitimate agencies do—by email, text, and networking sites. Sometimes this leaves people with their guard down because it’s not unheard of at all to get contacted this way, “out of the blue” so to speak.  

      Yet one of the quickest ways to spot a scammer is when the “recruiter” asks to pay a fee for the matchmaking, particularly if they ask for it up front. Legitimate headhunters, temp agencies, and staffing agencies typically get paid by the company or business that ultimately does the hiring. Job candidates don’t pay a thing.  

      Training and equipment fee scams 

      Another form of scam occurs during the “onboarding” process of the job. The scammer happily welcomes the victim to the company and then informs them that they’ll need to take some online training and perhaps buy a computer or other office equipment. Of course, the scammer asks the victim to pay for all of it—leaving the victim out of hundreds of dollars and the scammer with their payment info.  

      Spot job scams by asking the right questions 

      One way you can spot a job scam is to press for answers. Asking pointed questions about a company and the job it’s offering, just as you would in any real interview, can reveal gaps in a scammer’s story. In effect, scammers are putting on an acting job, and some don’t thoroughly prepare for their role. They don’t think through the details, hoping that victims will be happy enough about a job prospect to ask too many questions.  

      If the hiring process moves quicker than expected or details about a job seem light, it’s indeed time to ask questions. Here are a few you can keep handy when you start to wonder if you have a scam on your hands … 

      “What’s the full job description, and what are the day-to-day responsibilities?” 

      This is a great place to start. Legitimate employers write up job listings that they post on their website and job sites. In those descriptions, the work and everything it entails gets spelled out to the letter. A real employer should be able to provide you with a job description or at least cover it clearly over the course of a conversation.  

      “Where’s the company based and where does it have offices?”  

      This one can trip up a scammer quickly. A scammer might avoid giving a physical address. Likewise, they might offer up a fake one. Either a non-answer or a lie can readily call out a scam by following up the question with a web search for a physical address. (Resources like the Better Business Bureau can also help you research a company and its track record.) 

      “Who will I be working with, and who will I report to?” 

      Asking about co-workers, bosses, reporting structures and the like can also help sniff out a scam. Real employers, once again, will have ready answers here. They might even start dropping names and details about people’s tenure and background. Meanwhile, this is one more place where scammers might tip their hand because they haven’t made up those details. 

      “What are the next steps in the hiring process?” 

      This question alone can offer a telltale sign. Many job scams move through the hiring process at relative breakneck speed—skipping past the usual interview loops and callbacks that many legitimate jobs have. Scammers want to turn over their victims quickly, so they’ll make the “hiring process” quick as well. If it feels like you’re blazing through the steps, it could be a scam. 

      “Can you tell me about the company’s history?”  

      Every business has a story, even if it’s still in its startup days. Anyone in a recruiting or hiring position will have a good handle on this question, as they will on any follow-up questions about the company’s mission or goals. Again, vagueness in response to these kinds of questions could be a sign of a scam. 

      More ways you can avoid job scams 

      Watch out for job offers on social media.

      Whether it’s through social media sites like Facebook, Instagram, and the like, scammers often reach out through direct messages. Recruiters stick to legitimate business networking sites like LinkedIn. Companies maintain established accounts on recruiting platforms that people know and trust, so view any contact outside of them as suspicious. 

      Filter out scam links.

      Scammers use the “hiring process” to trick people into providing their personal info with malicious links. Web protection, included in our plans, can steer you clear of them. Likewise, our Scam Detector scans URLs in your text messages and alerts you if they’re sketchy. If you accidentally click a bad link, both web and text scam protection will block a risky site. 

      Lower your profile.

      Many scammers get your contact info from data broker sites. McAfee’s Personal Data Cleanup scans some of the riskiest data broker sites, shows you which ones are selling your personal info, and, depending on your plan, can help you remove it. Our Social Privacy Manager lowers your public profile lower still. It helps you adjust more than 100 privacy settings across your social media accounts in just a few clicks, so your personal info is only visible to the people you want to share it with. 

      The post Interviewing for a Job? Spot a Scam with These Questions appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      Your Phone Is the #1 Target in a New Wave of IRS Scams, McAfee Finds

      By: Jasdev Dhaliwal — April 1st 2025 at 07:00

      As Tax Day looms and last-minute taxpayers feel the pressure, a surge of IRS scams is on the rise.  

      Research by our McAfee Labs team projects a fresh wave of sophisticated tax scams as the stress of peak filing season sets in, with bogus text messages leading the way.  

      Nearly half of taxpayers complete their taxes between mid-March and April 15, which gives scammers ample opportunity to cash in as people rush their filings with the IRS.  

      Based on our data from 2024, here’s what we can expect in the coming days: 

      • We’ll see a surge in tax scams – The number of malicious tax scam URLs nearly quadrupled from February 1 (2.9% of activity) to February 28 (10.5%) last year, with the biggest spike at the end of the month.  
      • Mobile attacks will dominate – 76% of all tax scam activity in 2024 targeted mobile users via text, often using URL shorteners to disguise fraudulent links. 
      • Highly coordinated scam campaigns will roll out – A single campaign accounted for 17.3% of all tax-related blocked URLs in 2024, using fake IRS-style links (like, ”irs.gov.tax-helping[.]com”). 

      In addition to posing as the IRS, scammers will pose as tax prep and tax software companies as well. Just as in years past, taxpayers can further expect scams built around quick refunds and easy filing solutions that are actually fronts for scams. Yet whatever guise scammers put on, their aim remains the same. They want to dupe taxpayers out of their personal and financial info.  

      Common Tax Scams To Look Out For 

      Tax season is high season for scammers because so much personal info gets gathered and shared online. With that, many taxpayers have their guard down. They expect to see messages, ads, and so forth about their taxes, which can make them more willing to share some of their most personal info. That’s where scammers step in. They want to: 

      1. Steal account info – Scammers try to highjack account or financial info associated with credit cards and banks to steal funds and make purchases with a victim’s card.
      2. File false returns – Scammers also try to file false returns in a victim’s name and claim their refunds, which leaves the victim without their money and a fraud claim on their hands.
      3. Commit identity theft – Scammers use the info they steal to open new credit lines and accounts in a victim’s name. 
      4. Re-sell stolen info – Finally, scammers can also turn a profit on their victims by selling stolen info on dark web marketplaces. Instead of using it to commit identity theft
        themselves, they sell it to others who will.         

      Looking at this list, you can see what makes tax scams so damaging. Many of them target our most precious of personal info—our Social Security Numbers (SSNs).  

      A stolen SSN opens the door to some of the most painful forms of identity theft, like imposter fraud, insurance fraud, employment fraud, and more. These follow-on attacks can cause great harm to a victim’s finances and reputation in ways that can take months, or even years, to repair.   

      How Tax Scams Work

      In effect, tax scams deliver a one-two punch. 

      It begins by baiting the victim with a phony message from a scammer posing as the IRS, a tax prep business, or a tax software company. That might come by email, a direct message on social media, or even in paid search results. 

      Largely, scammers bait victims with texts. Mobile attacks indeed dominate the preferred contact method, just as we called out. Here, scammers often use link shorteners to disguise fraudulent links. (You’ve likely seen plenty of link shorteners like bit.ly and goo.gl. They make it easier to share long addresses, but the flipside is that there’s no quick way to tell where they really take you.) 

      In some cases, scammers attempt to trick taxpayers by weaving “irs.gov” into the web address. Below you can see one example, where the domain isn’t “irs.gov.” It’s actually “entes-tax[dot]com,” which leads to a scam site. 

      Scam texts that weave “irs.gov” into a malicious link 

      As for the text itself, scammers send urgent-sounding messages about tax returns like, “Your refund is on hold, contact the IRS immediately.” Other scammers use fear, leveling threats like jail time for non-payment. In other cases, scammers threaten to revoke things like driver’s licenses and business licenses, or even immigration status. According to the IRS, these are common signs of a scam. The IRS never uses threats or tactics like these to resolve tax issues. 

      The second punch comes by clicking the link in these messages, which leads to IRS copycat scam sites. And they can look convincing. The most sophisticated of them mirror the look and feel of the official IRS website and use URLs that look “close enough” to an IRS URL, which can trick anyone who doesn’t examine them closely. 

       

      Example of a fake IRS claim website 

      And that’s where the damage gets done. Under the false pretense of receiving a refund or making a payment, the scammers collect that precious personal info we talked about, which can cause short- and long-term fallout for victims. 

      The same approach works for scammers who pose as tax prep services and tax software companies. The texts and websites look different, yet they’re still part of a scheme for collecting the same types of personal and financial info.  

       

      How To Avoid Tax Scams

      Clever as these scams are, you can avoid them. The first step is awareness. By reading this article and sharing it with others, you spread the word about these scams and just how rampant they are. 

      From there, you can take several more steps that can keep you far safer during tax time: 

      • Be suspicious of emails and phone calls claiming to be from the IRS. The IRS typically contacts people by physical mail, not by email or text. (See their list of ways the IRS will contact you for more details.)
      • Never give out personal info on the phone. The IRS will never call to ask for personal info over the phone, and no government agency will ever ask you for money over the phone. Payments demanded in money orders, gift cards, and online payment platforms other than IRS.gov are an absolute red flag. 
      • Go straight to the source. Verify all websites and emails, even when it looks like they come from a trusted tax consultant or partner. Go straight to the source instead of clicking on links in emails or texts. 
      • Remove your personal info from sketchy data broker sites. Scams over email, phone, and text all require something—your contact info. In many cases, scammers get it from data broker sites. Data brokers buy, collect, and sell detailed personal info, which they compile from several public and private sources. Our Personal Data Cleanup scans some of the riskiest data broker sites and shows you which ones are selling your personal info. 
      • Lastly, file your taxes as quickly as possible. One way to keep a scammer from claiming your refund is to claim it first. In some cases, taxpayers only find out they’ve been scammed once they file a return—only to discover that it’s already been filed. 

      The post Your Phone Is the #1 Target in a New Wave of IRS Scams, McAfee Finds appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      ‘Seeing is Believing is Out the Window’: What to Learn From the Al Roker AI Deepfake Scam

      By: Jasdev Dhaliwal — March 31st 2025 at 16:51

      Al Roker never had a heart attack. He doesn’t have hypertension. But if you watched a recent deepfake video of him that spread across Facebook, you might think otherwise. 

      In a recent segment on NBC’s TODAY, Roker revealed that a fake AI-generated video was using his image and voice to promote a bogus hypertension cure—claiming, falsely, that he had suffered “a couple of heart attacks.” 

      “A friend of mine sent me a link and said, ‘Is this real?'” Roker told investigative correspondent Vicky Nguyen. “And I clicked on it, and all of a sudden, I see and hear myself talking about having a couple of heart attacks. I don’t have hypertension!” 

      The fabricated clip looked and sounded convincing enough to fool friends and family—including some of Roker’s celebrity peers. “It looks like me! I mean, I can tell that it’s not me, but to the casual viewer, Al Roker’s touting this hypertension cure… I’ve had some celebrity friends call because their parents got taken in by it.” 

      While Meta quickly removed the video from Facebook after being contacted by TODAY, the damage was done. The incident highlights a growing concern in the digital age: how easy it is to create—and believe—convincing deepfakes. 

      “We used to say, ‘Seeing is believing.’ Well, that’s kind of out the window now,” Roker said. 

      From Al Roker to Taylor Swift: A New Era of Scams 

      Al Roker isn’t the first public figure to be targeted by deepfake scams. Taylor Swift was recently featured in an AI-generated video promoting fake bakeware sales. Tom Hanks has spoken out about a fake dental plan ad that used his image without permission. Oprah, Brad Pitt, and others have faced similar exploitation. 

      These scams don’t just confuse viewers—they can defraud them. Criminals use the trust people place in familiar faces to promote fake products, lure them into shady investments, or steal their personal information. 

      “It’s frightening,” Roker told his co-anchors Craig Melvin and Dylan Dreyer. Craig added: “What’s scary is that if this is where the technology is now, then five years from now…” 

      Nguyen demonstrated just how simple it is to create a fake using free online tools, and brought in BrandShield CEO Yoav Keren to underscore the point: “I think this is becoming one of the biggest problems worldwide online,” Keren said. “I don’t think that the average consumer understands…and you’re starting to see more of these videos out there.” 

       Why Deepfakes Work—and Why They’re Dangerous 

      According to McAfee’s State of the Scamiverse report, the average American sees 2.6 deepfake videos per day, with Gen Z seeing up to 3.5 daily. These scams are designed to be believable—because the technology makes it possible to copy someone’s voice, mannerisms, and expressions with frightening accuracy. 

      And it doesn’t just affect celebrities: 

      • Scammers have faked CEOs to authorize fraudulent wire transfers. 
      • They’ve impersonated family members in crisis to steal money. 
      • They’ve conducted fake job interviews to harvest personal data. 

       How to Protect Yourself from Deepfake Scams 

      While the technology behind deepfakes is advancing, there are still ways to spot—and stop—them: 

      • Watch for odd facial expressions, stiff movements, or lips out of sync with speech. 
      • Listen for robotic audio, missing pauses, or unnatural pacing. 
      • Look for lighting that seems inconsistent or poorly rendered. 
      • Verify shocking claims through trusted sources—especially if they involve money or health advice. 

      And most importantly, be skeptical of celebrity endorsements on social media. If it seems out of character or too good to be true, it probably is. 

       How McAfee’s AI Tools Can Help 

      McAfee’s Deepfake Detector, powered by AMD’s Neural Processing Unit (NPU) in the new Ryzen™ AI 300 Series processors, identifies manipulated audio and video in real time—giving users a critical edge in spotting fakes. 

      This technology runs locally on your device for faster, private detection—and peace of mind. 

      Al Roker’s experience shows just how personal—and persuasive—deepfake scams have become. They blur the line between truth and fiction, targeting your trust in the people you admire. 

      With McAfee, you can fight back. 

      The post ‘Seeing is Believing is Out the Window’: What to Learn From the Al Roker AI Deepfake Scam appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      How to Delete Your Data from 23andMe and Protect Your Privacy

      By: Jasdev Dhaliwal — March 24th 2025 at 19:48

      The collapse of genetic testing giant 23andMe has raised serious privacy concerns for millions of people who shared their DNA with the company. Once valued at $6 billion, the company has filed for bankruptcy and is now selling off assets—including, potentially, your genetic data. 

      If you’ve ever used 23andMe to explore your ancestry or health traits, now is the time to take action.  

      Here’s what’s going on, what it means for your data, how to delete your account, and steps you can take to better protect your online privacy going forward. 

      What’s Going On at 23andMe? 

      23andMe, once a pioneer in at-home genetic testing, has fallen into financial distress after a series of challenges, including a massive data breach in 2023 that exposed personal information of nearly 7 million users, according to TechCrunch. The company’s value plummeted by more than 99%, leading to mass board resignations and a March 2024 bankruptcy filing. 

      Now, as 23andMe prepares to sell off its assets under court supervision, its massive database of customer DNA—reportedly from more than 15 million users—is on the table. Despite the company’s assurances that its privacy policy remains in effect, experts and privacy advocates warn that your sensitive genetic data could end up in the hands of third parties, including pharmaceutical companies or even law enforcement agencies. 

      Is My Privacy at Risk? 

      If you used 23andMe, yes.  

      Genetic data is some of the most personal information you can share. It can reveal details about your ancestry, health risks, and even family secrets. With 23andMe not covered by HIPAA (the federal health privacy law), your DNA data isn’t protected the way medical records at a doctor’s office would be, The Harvard Gazette reports. 

      Although 23andMe claims it won’t share individual-level data without consent, it does reserve the right to sell or transfer personal information as part of a bankruptcy or acquisition. That means your data could be bought by another company—one with different privacy practices or intentions. 

      California residents, in particular, have the legal right to delete their data under the Genetic Information Privacy Act (GIPA) and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA).  

      How to Delete Your 23andMe Data 

      If you’re ready to take action, here’s how to delete your genetic data and revoke research permissions through your 23andMe account: 

      To Delete Your Account and Genetic Data: 

      1. Log in to your 23andMe account. 
      2. Go to Settings. 
      3. Scroll down to 23andMe Data and click View. 
      4. (Optional) Download your data if you want to keep a copy. 
      5. Scroll to the Delete Data section. 
      6. Click Permanently Delete Data. 
      7. Confirm via the email link you’ll receive. 

      To Destroy Your Saliva Sample: 

      1. Go to Settings. 
      2. Navigate to Preferences. 
      3. Select the option to destroy your stored biological sample. 

      To Revoke Research Consent: 

      1. Go to Settings. 
      2. Navigate to Research and Product Consents. 
      3. Withdraw your consent for data sharing. 

      McAfee’s Tips for Protecting Your Online Privacy 

      Your DNA isn’t the only personal data at risk. From email addresses and home addresses to phone numbers and even shopping habits, data brokers are collecting and selling your information online—often without your knowledge or consent. 

      That’s why it’s critical to take control of your digital footprint. All McAfee+ plans provide the ability to scan the web for details of your personal information. McAfee’s Online Account Cleanup scans for accounts you no longer use and helps you delete them, along with your personal info. McAfee’s Personal Data Cleanup, takes this a step further, by scanning data broker sites for your personal information, and requesting the removal of you details from those sites. 

      Combined, these tools can give you back control over your privacy. All our McAfee+ plans include scans to find your accounts and direct you on how to remove your data.  

      Bottom Line: If you’ve ever used 23andMe, your genetic data could be at risk of being transferred or sold. Take action now by deleting your account and revoking permissions. And to keep the rest of your personal data protected, use tools like McAfee+ to keep your personal data safe online. 

       

      The post How to Delete Your Data from 23andMe and Protect Your Privacy appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      AI chatbots are becoming romance scammers—and 1 in 3 people admit they could fall for one

      By: Jasdev Dhaliwal — February 12th 2025 at 05:00

      It started with a DM. 

      For five months, 25-year-old computer programmer Maggie K. exchanged daily messages with the man she met on Instagram, convinced she had found something real. 

      When it was finally time to meet in person, he never showed. Instead, he claimed he missed his flight and needed money to rebook. Desperate to finally see him, she sent the cash.  

      Then, silence. His accounts vanished. He hadn’t just ghosted her—he had never existed at all. 

      “I ignored my gut feeling… I sent him $1,200. Then he disappeared,” Maggie told McAfee, hoping that her story would educate others. “When I reported the scam, the police told me his images were AI-generated. He wasn’t even a real person. That was the scariest part – I had trusted someone who never even existed.”  

      How AI is making romance scams more sophisticated 

      These scams work because they prey on trust and emotions. And they aren’t just targeting the naïve; anyone, even tech professionals as Maggie’s case shows, can be fooled. 

      McAfee’s latest research reveals more than half (52%) of people have been scammed out of money or pressured to send money or gifts by someone they met online. 

      And romance scams aren’t just happening in dating apps anymore. Social media, messaging platforms and AI chatbots are fuelling an explosion of online romance fraud. 

      McAfee’s findings highlight a staggering rise in: 

      • AI-powered scams: More than 1 in 4 people (26%) say they—or someone they know—have been approached by an AI chatbot posing as a real person on a dating app or social media. 
      • Fake romance scam websites: In the seven weeks leading up to Valentine’s Day, McAfee blocked a staggering 321,509 fraudulent URLs designed to lure in victims. 

      The costs: your time, money, trust and personal data 

      With 62% of people saying they’ve used dating apps, social media, or messaging platforms to connect with potential partners, scammers have a bigger pool of victims than ever before. 

      Younger users are the most active online daters, with 31% of 18-24-year-olds currently using online dating platforms. Tinder is the most popular dating app overall (46%), with its highest engagement among 18-24-year-olds (73%). Just over 40% of respondents said they use Instagram, 29% use Snapchat and 25% use TikTok to meet potential partners. But these platforms also present new risks, as fake apps designed to steal personal information lurk in app stores. 

      McAfee researchers found nearly 11,000 attempts to download fraudulent dating apps in recent months. The most impersonated? 

      • Tinder (55%) 
      • OKCupid (29%) 
      • Badoo (7%) 
      • Hinge (7%) 
      • Bumble (2%) 

      Downloading a fake app could expose your login credentials, financial information or even install malware onto your device.  

      And once money is lost, its rarely recovered, as scammers use cryptocurrency, untraceable gift cards and offshore accounts to move stolen funds.  

      Recognizing romance scam red flags  

      McAfee researchers urge anyone looking for love online to stay vigilant by following these critical safety measures: 

      1) Watch for “love bombing.” Scammers overwhelm victims with affection early on to gain trust. 

      2) Verify their identity. Use reverse image searches and insist on live video calls which AI-generated scammers avoid. 

      3) Never send money. No real partner will pressure you for financial help—especially when you’ve never met. 

      4) Be wary of celebrity DMs. If a famous figure suddenly messages you, it’s likely a scam. 

      5) Avoid suspicious links. McAfee blocked over 321,000 fraudulent dating sites—avoid clicking on unknown links or apps.  

      6) Use online protection tools. Tools like McAfee+ can detect and block suspicious messages, phishing attempts, and AI-generated fraud in real time. McAfee+ offers maximum identity, privacy, and device protection to detect and prevent fraudulent activity before it causes harm. 

      The post AI chatbots are becoming romance scammers—and 1 in 3 people admit they could fall for one appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      Buying Tickets for Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter Tour? Don’t Let Scammers Ruin Your Experience

      By: Jasdev Dhaliwal — February 4th 2025 at 03:57

      Beyoncé has officially announced her Cowboy Carter world tour, and the excitement is through the roof! With her last tour selling out in record time, fans know they need to act fast to secure their tickets. Unfortunately, that urgency is exactly what scammers prey on. 

      In 2022 alone, Americans lost nearly $8.8 billion to fraud, and ticket scams are one of the most common ways scammers cash in on eager fans. But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Before you rush to buy tickets to Beyoncé’s latest tour, here’s how to spot and avoid ticket scams so you don’t get left outside the stadium with nothing but regret. 

      How Ticket Scams Work 

      Ticket scams come in different forms, but the most common ones include: 

      • Selling fake tickets – The scammer takes your money and either provides a counterfeit ticket or nothing at all. 
      • Stealing payment information – Some fake ticket websites don’t just sell you bogus tickets—they steal your credit card details too. 
      • Reselling legitimate tickets multiple times – A scammer might have a real ticket but sells duplicates of it to multiple buyers, leaving some victims locked out of the event. 
      • Selling general admission tickets as premium or VIP seats – You think you’re getting an upgrade, but you end up overpaying for a basic ticket. 

      Scammers know how to create a sense of urgency, often advertising tickets to sold-out events at too-good-to-be-true prices. If you’re desperate to see Beyoncé, it’s easy to get caught up in the rush—but staying cautious can save you from getting scammed. 

      How to Spot a Ticket Scam 

      The best way to avoid being scammed is to buy only from reputable sources like official ticketing platforms (Ticketmaster, Live Nation, AXS) or directly from the event’s website. However, if you’re looking elsewhere, be on the lookout for these red flags: 

      • Deeply discounted tickets – If a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is. 
      • Sellers reaching out to you first – Scammers often message people on social media, offering “last-minute” or “hard-to-find” tickets. 
      • Payment methods with no protection – If the seller insists on Venmo, Cash App, cryptocurrency, or gift cards, walk away. Use a credit card for protection. 
      • Look-alike websites – Scammers create fake ticket sites that resemble legitimate ones. Always check the URL. 
      • Poor grammar and spelling – Many scam posts and messages contain awkward phrasing or mistakes. 
      • Sellers asking to DM or text you right away – Legitimate resellers typically operate through verified marketplaces, not private messages. 

      Common Ticket Scam Traps & How to Avoid Them 

      1. Fake “Sold-Out” Tickets on Social Media 

      When an event sells out, scammers flood social media with offers. Platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Instagram, and Craigslist are filled with fake ticket sellers. If you didn’t get tickets during the official sale, be cautious about where you’re looking. 

      Pro Tip: Follow Beyoncé’s official social media pages and event organizers for updates. Sometimes, extra dates or official resale opportunities become available. 

      2. Discounted Tickets That Seem Too Cheap 

      Scammers often advertise tickets below face value to lure in victims. While real fans sometimes sell their tickets at a discount, it’s a huge red flag if the price is way lower than expected. 

      Pro Tip: If you’re buying from an individual, check their profile carefully. Look for signs of a fake account, such as recently created pages or multiple listings in different cities. 

      3. Fake Ticket Websites 

      Some scammers go the extra mile, creating entire websites that mimic real ticket platforms. These fake sites not only sell counterfeit tickets but may also steal your credit card information. 

      Pro Tip: Always type in the official ticketing site’s URL manually or search for it on Google. Avoid clicking links from unknown sources, and double-check that the site uses “HTTPS” and has no misspellings in the URL. 

      4. Duplicate Ticket Scams 

      Even if you get a real ticket, that doesn’t mean it’s yours alone. Some scammers sell the same ticket to multiple people, leading to chaos when multiple buyers show up at the event. 

      Pro Tip: Only buy from platforms that offer verified resale tickets with guarantees, like StubHub, SeatGeek, or VividSeats. 

      5. Seat Scams 

      Some scammers sell general admission tickets as if they were premium seats. You may think you’re getting front-row access, only to find out you overpaid for a standing-room ticket. 

      Pro Tip: Always confirm the seat location with the seller. Many venues have seating charts available online, so check before purchasing. 

      6. Ticket Takeovers 

      Scammers hack into Ticketmaster accounts and transfer tickets to themselves, effectively locking the rightful owner out of their seats. Victims often receive a flood of emails, including notifications of ticket transfers they never authorized. By the time they realize what’s happened, their tickets are gone, likely resold by the scammer. 

      Pro Tip: To prevent this, ensure your Ticketmaster account is secure by using a strong password, enabling two-factor authentication, and being wary of suspicious login attempts or phishing emails. 

      How to Safely Buy Beyoncé Tickets 

      To make sure you don’t fall victim to a ticket scam, follow these golden rules:  

      ✅Buy from official sources – Beyoncé’s official website, Ticketmaster, and AXS are your safest bets.  

      ✅Use a credit card – If something goes wrong, you can dispute the charge. 

      ✅Be wary of social media sellers – If you’re buying from a stranger, research their profile and history first.  

      ✅Check the URL – Make sure you’re on the real ticketing website before purchasing.  

      ✅Avoid high-pressure sales tactics – Scammers want you to act fast—don’t fall for it! 

      Final Thoughts: Enjoy Cowboy Carter Without the Scams 

      Beyond ticket scams, cybercriminals also use major events like Beyoncé’s tour to spread malware and phishing attacks. McAfee’s comprehensive online protection can help keep your devices and personal information safe by blocking malicious websites, preventing identity theft, and alerting you to potential fraud.

      Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter tour is one of the most anticipated events of the year, and everyone wants to be part of the experience. But scammers know this too, and they’re out in full force. By staying smart, sticking to verified ticket sources, and being wary of deals that seem too good to be true, you can avoid scams and secure your spot at one of the biggest concerts of 2025. 

      Stay safe, Beyhive—and get ready to enjoy the show! 

      The post Buying Tickets for Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter Tour? Don’t Let Scammers Ruin Your Experience appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      How to Make Sure Your Gmail Account is Protected in Light of Recent AI Scams

      By: Jasdev Dhaliwal — February 3rd 2025 at 12:05

      The rise of AI-driven cyber threats has introduced a new level of sophistication to phishing scams, particularly those targeting Gmail users.

      Criminals are using artificial intelligence to create eerily realistic impersonations of Google support representatives, Forbes recently reported. These scams don’t just rely on misleading emails; they also include convincing phone calls that appear to come from legitimate sources.

      If you receive a call claiming to be from Google support, just hang up—this could be an AI-driven scam designed to trick you into handing over your Gmail credentials.

      Here’s everything you need to know about the scam and how to protect yourself:

      Understanding the AI-Driven Gmail Scam

      Hackers have devised a multi-step approach to trick users into handing over their Gmail credentials. Here’s how the scam unfolds:

      Step 1: Impersonation Calls

      The attack often begins with a phone call from what appears to be an official Google support number. The caller, using AI-generated voice technology, convincingly mimics a real Google representative. Their tone is professional, and the caller ID may even display “Google Support,” making it difficult to immediately recognize the scam.

      Step 2: False Security Alerts

      Once engaged, the scammer informs the victim that suspicious activity has been detected on their Gmail account. They may claim that an unauthorized login attempt has occurred, or that their account is at risk of being locked. The goal is to create a sense of urgency, pressuring the victim to act quickly without thinking critically.

      Step 3: Fake Verification Process

      To appear credible, the scammer sends an email that looks almost identical to a real Google security notification. The email may include official-looking branding and a request to verify the user’s identity by entering a code. The email is designed to look so authentic that even tech-savvy individuals can be fooled.

      Step 4: Account Takeover

      If the victim enters the verification code, they inadvertently grant the attacker full access to their Gmail account. Since the scammer now controls the two-factor authentication process, they can lock the real user out, change passwords, and exploit the account for further attacks, including identity theft, financial fraud, or spreading phishing emails to others.

      Why This Scam Is More Effective Than Traditional Phishing

      This scam is particularly dangerous because it combines multiple layers of deception, making it difficult to spot. Unlike standard phishing emails that may contain poor grammar or suspicious links, AI-enhanced scams:

      • Use highly realistic voices that mimic human speech patterns.
      • Leverage caller ID spoofing to appear as an official Google number.
      • Exploit trust by impersonating a well-known tech company.
      • Bypass 2FA by deceiving users into providing authentication codes.

      Steps to Secure Your Gmail Account

      To protect yourself from AI-powered scams, follow these essential security measures:

      1. Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Calls from “Google”

      Google does not randomly call users about security issues. If you receive such a call, hang up immediately and report the incident through Google’s official support channels.

      2. Verify Security Alerts Directly in Your Account

      If you receive a message stating that your account has been compromised, do not click any links or follow instructions from the email. Instead, go directly to your Google account’s security settings and review recent activity.

      3. Never Share Verification Codes

      Google will never ask you to provide a security code over the phone. If someone requests this information, it is a scam.

      4. Enable Strong Authentication Methods

      • Turn on Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) to add an extra layer of security.
      • Consider using Google’s Advanced Protection Program, which requires a physical security key for verification.

      5. Regularly Monitor Your Account Activity

      Check the “Security” section of your Google account to review login activity. If you see any unrecognized sign-ins, take immediate action by changing your password and logging out of all devices.

      6. Use a Password Manager

      A password manager helps create and store strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts. This ensures that even if one password is compromised, other accounts remain secure.

      What to Do If You Suspect Your Gmail Has Been Hacked

      If you believe your account has been compromised, take these steps immediately:

      • Change your password to a strong, unique combination of characters.
      • Enable 2FA if you haven’t already.
      • Review recent account activity for suspicious logins.
      • Report the issue to Google through their Security Help Center.
      • Scan your device with McAfee+ or another reputable security tool to check for malware.

      Staying Ahead of AI-Enhanced Cyber Threats

      As AI technology advances, cybercriminals will continue to find new ways to exploit users. By staying informed and implementing strong security practices, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to these sophisticated scams.

      At McAfee, we are dedicated to helping you protect your digital identity. Stay proactive, stay secure, and always verify before you trust.

      For more cybersecurity insights and protection tools, check out McAfee+.

       

      The post How to Make Sure Your Gmail Account is Protected in Light of Recent AI Scams appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      Explaining DeepSeek: The AI Disruptor That’s Raising Red Flags for Privacy and Security

      By: Jasdev Dhaliwal — January 31st 2025 at 00:01

      The artificial intelligence arms race has a new disruptor—DeepSeek, a Chinese AI startup that has quickly gained traction for its advanced language models.  

      Positioned as a low-cost alternative to industry giants like OpenAI and Meta, DeepSeek has drawn attention for its rapid growth, affordability, and potential to reshape the AI landscape.  

      But as the buzz around its capabilities grows, so do concerns about data privacy, cybersecurity, and the implications of feeding personal information into AI tools with uncertain oversight. 

      What Is DeepSeek, and Why Is It Making Headlines? 

      DeepSeek’s AI models, including its latest version, DeepSeek-V3, claim to rival the most sophisticated AI systems developed in the U.S.—but at a fraction of the cost. 

      According to reports, training its latest model required just $6 million in computing power, compared to the billions spent by its American counterparts. This affordability has allowed DeepSeek to climb the ranks, with its AI assistant even surpassing ChatGPT as the top free app on Apple’s U.S. App Store. 

      What makes DeepSeek’s rise even more surprising is how abruptly it entered the AI race. The company originally launched as a hedge fund before pivoting to artificial intelligence—an unusual shift that has fueled speculation about how it managed to develop such advanced models so quickly. Unlike other AI startups that spent years in research and development, DeepSeek seemed to emerge overnight with capabilities on par with OpenAI and Meta. 

      However, DeepSeek’s meteoric rise has sparked skepticism. Some analysts and AI experts question whether its success is truly due to breakthrough efficiency or if it has leveraged external resources—potentially including restricted U.S. AI technology. OpenAI has even accused DeepSeek of improperly using its proprietary tech, a claim that, if proven, could have major legal and ethical ramifications. 

      Why Consumers Should Be Cautious 

      One of the biggest concerns surrounding DeepSeek isn’t just how it handles user data—it’s that it reportedly failed to secure it altogether.  

      According to The Register, security researchers at Wiz discovered that DeepSeek left a database completely exposed, with no password protection, allowing public access to millions of chat logs, API keys, backend data, and operational details.  

      This means that conversations with DeepSeek’s chatbot, including potentially sensitive information, were openly available to anyone on the internet. Worse still, the exposure reportedly could have allowed attackers to escalate privileges and gain deeper access into DeepSeek’s infrastructure. While the issue has since been fixed, the incident highlights a glaring oversight: even the most advanced AI models are only as trustworthy as the security behind them. 

      Here’s why caution is warranted: 

      1. Data Privacy Risks: AI chatbots process and store conversations, which may be used for further training, sold to third parties, or accessed by unauthorized entities. It remains unclear how DeepSeek handles user data or whether its security protocols align with global privacy standards. 
      1. Regulatory Uncertainty: Unlike U.S. companies that must comply with laws like the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), DeepSeek operates under different legal frameworks. This lack of regulatory clarity could mean weaker protections for user data. 
      1. Potential Cybersecurity Threats: History has shown that AI tools can be manipulated for malicious purposes, from deepfake scams to social engineering attacks. If DeepSeek’s security measures are not robust, it could become a target for cybercriminals looking to exploit vulnerabilities. 

      DeepSeek specifically states in its terms of service that it collects, stores, and has permission to share just about all the data you provide while using the service.  

       

      Figure 1. Screenshot of DeepSeek Privacy Policy shared on LinkedIn

      It specifically notes collecting your profile information, credit card details, and any files or data shared in chats. What’s more, that data isn’t stored in the United States, which has strict data privacy regulations. DeepSeek is a Chinese company with limited required protections for U.S. consumers and their personal data. 

      How to Stay Safe When Using AI Chatbots 

      If you’re using AI tools—whether it’s ChatGPT, DeepSeek, or any other chatbot—it’s crucial to take steps to protect your information: 

      • Avoid sharing personal or sensitive data. AI chatbots are not secure vaults—treat them like public forums. You wouldn’t post your social security number or passwords to Facebook, don’t share those details with chatbots either. 
      • Review privacy policies carefully. Before using a new AI model, check how your data is collected, stored, and used. Read privacy policies and consider what data is being saved. 
      • Use disposable or temporary email addresses. If a chatbot requires registration, consider using an alias to prevent your primary email from being linked to the service. 
      • Enable multi-factor authentication. If an AI platform offers account security features, enable them to add an extra layer of protection. 

      As AI chatbots like DeepSeek gain popularity, safeguarding your personal data is more critical than ever. With McAfee’s advanced security solutions, including identity protection and AI-powered threat detection, you can browse, chat, and interact online with greater confidence—because in the age of AI, privacy is power. 

       

      The post Explaining DeepSeek: The AI Disruptor That’s Raising Red Flags for Privacy and Security appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      How Scammers Steal Your Identity and What You Can Do About It

      By: Jasdev Dhaliwal — January 30th 2025 at 12:16

      Identity theft is a growing concern, and Data Privacy Week serves as an important reminder to safeguard your personal information. In today’s digital age, scammers have more tools than ever to steal your identity, often with just a few key details—like your Social Security number, bank account information, or home address.

      Unfortunately, identity theft claims have surged in recent years, jumping from approximately 650,000 in 2019 to over a million in 2023, according to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). This trend underscores the urgent need for stronger personal data protection habits.

      So, how do scammers pull it off, and how can you protect yourself from becoming a victim?

      How Do Scammers Steal Your Identity? 

      Scammers are resourceful, and there are multiple ways they can access your personal information. The theft can happen both in the physical and digital realms. 

      • Identity Theft in the Physical World:
        • If you lose your wallet or debit card, that’s an immediate risk. But thieves also use other methods like rummaging through your trash or mail to access sensitive information. In rare cases, they may even file a change-of-address form in your name, redirecting your mail to a different address. 
      • Identity Theft in the Digital World: 
        • Data breaches: Hackers infiltrate businesses or government systems, stealing massive amounts of customer data. 
        • Phishing attacks: Fraudsters use deceptive emails, texts, or websites to trick you into entering sensitive information like passwords or credit card details. 
        • Malware: Scammers can infect your devices with malware that secretly harvests your data. 
        • Public Wi-Fi risks: Using unsecured Wi-Fi networks without a Virtual Private Network (VPN) makes it easier for hackers to intercept your online transactions. 

      Signs Your Identity May Have Been Stolen 

      When scammers steal your identity, they often leave behind a trail of unusual activity that you can detect. Here are some common signs that could indicate identity theft: 

      • Unexpected bills or new accounts: If you start receiving bills for accounts you didn’t open, or if you see unfamiliar charges on your bank statements, it’s time to investigate. 
      • Missing bills or statements: If your regular bills or account statements stop showing up, it could mean your address has been changed without your knowledge. 
      • Fraudulent accounts or transactions: Getting debt collection calls for accounts you never opened, or spotting unauthorized charges on your credit or bank statements, is a major red flag. 
      • Denial of credit: If you apply for a loan or a credit card and get denied for reasons you don’t understand, it could be due to fraudulent activity under your name. 
      • IRS notifications: If the IRS contacts you about tax returns filed in your name, it’s possible someone has stolen your Social Security number to claim your refund. 

      Steps to Take If You Suspect Identity Theft 

      If you suspect that your identity has been stolen, time is of the essence. Here’s what you need to do: 

      • Contact the companies involved: Immediately report any suspicious transactions to your bank, credit card company, or any business where fraud has occurred. They can help you initiate an investigation. 
      • File a police report: Identity theft is a crime, and it’s essential to report it to the authorities. Filing a police report can create an official record of the theft and help protect you if the thief commits other crimes under your name. 
      • Place a fraud alert or credit freeze: Contact one of the major credit bureaus (Experian, TransUnion, or Equifax) to place a fraud alert on your credit file. This makes it harder for thieves to open accounts in your name. You can also opt for a credit freeze, which prevents creditors from accessing your credit report altogether. 
      • Dispute any inaccuracies: Check your credit reports for any unfamiliar activity. Dispute any fraudulent accounts or charges with the relevant credit bureaus and businesses involved. 
      • Monitor your credit and accounts: Even after taking the above steps, it’s crucial to keep an eye on your credit report and bank statements. The longer you monitor, the sooner you’ll spot any other fraudulent activity. 

      How to Prevent Identity Theft 

      While you can’t completely eliminate the risk of identity theft, there are several steps you can take to protect yourself: 

      • Use strong passwords: Create unique passwords for each of your online accounts and enable two-factor authentication wherever possible.
      • Install security software: Use comprehensive security software to protect your devices from malware and hackers. McAfee+ offers enhanced protection against identity theft and provides real-time monitoring for any suspicious activity. McAfee+ Advanced and Ultimate plans also come with full-service Personal Data Cleanup, which sends requests to remove your data automatically.
      • Shred personal documents: Shred bills, tax documents, and any sensitive paperwork before disposing of them. Scammers still use physical methods like “dumpster diving” to gather personal information.
      • Be cautious online: Be mindful of the information you share on social media. Avoid posting sensitive details like your birth date or mother’s maiden name, which could be used to guess your security questions.
      • Regularly monitor your bank accounts: Regularly check your bank activity and credit report to ensure that no unauthorized activity has taken place. You’re entitled to a free credit report annually from the three major credit bureaus. 

      Identity theft can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, but by acting quickly and taking proactive steps to protect your personal information, you can minimize the damage and reclaim your identity. 

      The post How Scammers Steal Your Identity and What You Can Do About It appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      Introducing Personal Data Cleanup

      By: McAfee — January 29th 2025 at 23:56

      We’re excited to announce the release of McAfee’s Personal Data Cleanup, a new feature that finds and removes your personal info from data brokers and people search sites. Now, you can feel more confident by removing personal info from data broker sites and keeping it from being collected, sold, and used to: advertise products to you, fill your email box with spam, and can even give criminals the info they need to steal your identity. Let’s look at why we’re offering McAfee Personal Data Cleanup, how it protects your privacy, and why it’s a great addition to the online protection we already offer. 

      Does the cost of a connected life have to be your privacy?

      There’s so much to enjoy when you live a connected life – free email, online stores that remember what you like, social media that connects you to friends and influencers. It’s a world of convenience, opportunity, and incredible content. It’s also a world where your data is constantly collected.  

      “Wait. Did you say my data?” 

      That’s right, companies are collecting your personal data. They’re called data brokers and they make money by selling information that specifically identifies you, like an email address. They sell this information to marketers looking to target you with ads. Criminals can also use it to build profiles in service of stealing your identity and accessing your accounts. This activity takes place behind the scenes and often without consumers’ knowledge.  There are also data brokers known as people search sites that compile and sell info like home addresses, emails, phones, court records, employment info, and more. These websites give identity thieves, hackers, stalkers, and other malicious actors easy access to your info. Regardless of how your data is being used, it’s clear that these days a more connected life often comes at the cost of your privacy.  

      Consumers are clamoring for more privacy online 

      In a recent survey of McAfee customers, we found that 59% have become more protective of their personal data over the past six months. And it’s no wonder. Over the past two years, trends like telehealth, remote working, and increased usage of online shopping and financial services have meant that more of your time is being spent online. Unsurprisingly, more personal data is being made available in the process. This leads us to the most alarming finding of our survey – 95% of consumers whose personal information ends up on data broker sites had it collected without their consent.  

       

      Free to enjoy privacy online with McAfee’s Personal Data Cleanup 

      We created Personal Data Cleanup to make it easy for you to take back your privacy online. McAfee’s Personal Data Cleanup regularly scans the riskiest data broker sites for info like your home address, date of birth, and names of relatives. After showing where we found your data, you can either remove it yourself or we will work on your behalf to remove it. Here’s how it works: 

      • Set up 
        • Input your name, date of birth, and home address. 
      • Scan:  
        • We scan this against some of the riskiest data broker sites 
      • Review 
        • Within minutes, we’ll show you where we found your personal info, and what info the sites have. 
      • Remove 
        • You can manually go to each site and request that your data be removed OR upgrade to have McAfee manage the removal process on your behalf. 
      • Ongoing 
        • Your info can reappear as data brokers continually collect data. To ensure ongoing protection, Personal Data Cleanup enables regular scanning so it can be removed. 

      Start using McAfee’s Personal Data Cleanup right now 

      Ready to take back your personal info online? Personal Data Cleanup is available immediately with most of our online protection plans. If you have an eligible subscription, you can start using this new feature through McAfee Protection Center, or you can get McAfee online protection here.

      The post Introducing Personal Data Cleanup appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      How Data Brokers Sell Your Identity

      By: Jasdev Dhaliwal — January 28th 2025 at 13:44

      Data Privacy Week is here, and there’s no better time to shine a spotlight on one of the biggest players in the personal information economy: data brokers. These entities collect, buy, and sell hundreds—sometimes thousands—of data points on individuals like you. But how do they manage to gather so much information, and for what purpose? From your browsing habits and purchase history to your location data and even more intimate details, these digital middlemen piece together surprisingly comprehensive profiles. The real question is: where are they getting it all, and why is your personal data so valuable to them? Let’s unravel the mystery behind the data broker industry.

      What are data brokers?

      Data brokers aggregate user info from various sources on the internet. They collect, collate, package, and sometimes even analyze this data to create a holistic and coherent version of you online. This data then gets put up for sale to nearly anyone who’ll buy it. That can include marketers, private investigators, tech companies, and sometimes law enforcement as well. They’ll also sell to spammers and scammers. (Those bad actors need to get your contact info from somewhere — data brokers are one way to get that and more.)

      And that list of potential buyers goes on, which includes but isn’t limited to:

      • Tech platforms
      • Banks
      • Insurance companies
      • Political consultancies
      • Marketing firms
      • Retailers
      • Crime-fighting bureaus
      • Investigation bureaus
      • Video streaming service providers
      • Any other businesses involved in sales

      These companies and social media platforms use your data to better understand target demographics and the content with which they interact. While the practice isn’t unethical in and of itself (personalizing user experiences and creating more convenient UIs are usually cited as the primary reasons for it), it does make your data vulnerable to malicious attacks targeted toward big-tech servers.

      How do data brokers get your information?

      Most of your online activities are related. Devices like your phone, laptop, tablets, and even fitness watches are linked to each other. Moreover, you might use one email ID for various accounts and subscriptions. This online interconnectedness makes it easier for data brokers to create a cohesive user profile.

      Mobile phone apps are the most common way for data brokerage firms to collect your data. You might have countless apps for various purposes, such as financial transactions, health and fitness, or social media.

      A number of these apps usually fall under the umbrella of the same or subsidiary family of apps, all of which work toward collecting and supplying data to big tech platforms. Programs like Google’s AdSense make it easier for developers to monetize their apps in exchange for the user information they collect.

      Data brokers also collect data points like your home address, full name, phone number, and date of birth. They have automated scraping tools to quickly collect relevant information from public records (think sales of real estate, marriages, divorces, voter registration, and so on).

      Lastly, data brokers can gather data from other third parties that track your cookies or even place trackers or cookies on your browsers. Cookies are small data files that track your online activities when visiting different websites. They track your IP address and browsing history, which third parties can exploit. Cookies are also the reason you see personalized ads and products.

      How data brokers sell your identity

      Data brokers collate your private information into one package and sell it to “people search” websites. As mentioned above, practically anyone can access these websites and purchase extensive consumer data, for groups of people and individuals alike.

      Next, marketing and sales firms are some of data brokers’ biggest clients. These companies purchase massive data sets from data brokers to research your data profile. They have advanced algorithms to segregate users into various consumer groups and target you specifically. Their predictive algorithms can suggest personalized ads and products to generate higher lead generation and conversation percentages for their clients.

      Are data brokers legal?

      We tend to accept the terms and conditions that various apps ask us to accept without thinking twice or reading the fine print. You probably cannot proceed without letting the app track certain data or giving your personal information. To a certain extent, we trade some of our privacy for convenience. This becomes public information, and apps and data brokers collect, track, and use our data however they please while still complying with the law.

      There is no comprehensive privacy law in the U.S. on a federal level. This allows data brokers to collect personal information and condense it into marketing insights. While not all methods of gathering private data are legal, it is difficult to track the activities of data brokers online (especially on the dark web). As technology advances, there are also easier ways to harvest and exploit data.

      As of March 2024, 15 states in the U.S. have data privacy laws in place. That includes California, Virginia, Connecticut, Colorado, Utah, Iowa, Indiana, Tennessee, Oregon, Montana, Texas, Delaware, Florida, New Jersey, and New Hampshire.[i] The laws vary by state, yet generally, they grant rights to individuals around the collection, use, and disclosure of their personal data by businesses.

      However, these laws make exceptions for certain types of data and certain types of collectors. In short, these laws aren’t absolute.

      Can you remove yourself from data broker websites?

      Some data brokers let you remove your information from their websites. There are also extensive guides available online that list the method by which you can opt-out of some of the biggest data brokering firms. For example, a guide by Griffin Boyce, the systems administrator at Harvard University’s Berkman Klein Center for Internet and Society, provides detailed information on how to opt-out of a long list of data broker companies.

      Yet the list of data brokers is long. Cleaning up your personal data online can quickly eat up your time, as it requires you to reach out to multiple data brokers and opt-out.

      Rather than removing yourself one by one from the host of data broker sites out there, you have a solid option: our Personal Data Cleanup.

      Personal Data Cleanup scans data broker sites and shows you which ones are selling your personal info. It also provides guidance on how you can remove your data from those sites. And if you want to save time on manually removing that info, you have options. Our McAfee+ Advanced and Ultimate plans come with full-service Personal Data Cleanup, which sends requests to remove your data automatically.

      If the thought of your personal info getting bought and sold in such a public way bothers you, our Personal Data Cleanup can put you back in charge of it.

      [i] https://pro.bloomberglaw.com/insights/privacy/state-privacy-legislation-tracker/

       

      The post How Data Brokers Sell Your Identity appeared first on McAfee Blog.

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      Brushing Scams: What They Are and How to Stay Safe From Unsolicited Packages

      By: McAfee — December 9th 2025 at 13:00

      It’s an increasingly common surprise: a package shows up at your door with your name and your address…but you never ordered it.  

      These unsolicited deliveries may seem harmless, but they’re often tied to a scheme called a brushing scam. These scams occur year-round but tend to pick up around the holidays or peak shopping seasons, when shipping volume spikes and it’s easier for suspicious packages to blend in. 

      Below is everything you need to know: how brushing scams work, what they mean for your personal information, and the exact steps to take if one shows up at your doorstep. 

       Takeaways 

      • A brushing scam is when a seller sends you an item you didn’t order so they can post a fake “verified purchase” review under your name. 
      • These scams usually involve low-value items like cheap jewelry, seeds, or trinkets. 
      • Unexpected packages can signal that your personal data was exposed in a breach or has been purchased illegally. 
      • You don’t have to return the item, but you should report it, update your passwords, and check for suspicious activity. 
      • These scams increase during busy shipping periods, including holidays. 

      What Is a Brushing Scam? 

      A brushing scam is when sellers send you unsolicited items so they can post fake reviews using your name, boosting their product’s ranking and credibility without your consent. 

      How Brushing Scams Work 

      A typical brushing scam looks like this: 

      1. A scammer creates or uses a seller account on a marketplace like Amazon or AliExpress. 
      2. They obtain your name and address, often through a breach, data leak, or illegal database. 
      3. They “order” their own product but send it to you at no cost. 
      4. Once shipping confirms delivery, they post a fake verified review under your identity to boost their seller rating. 
      5. The product gains more visibility, which drives more sales. 

      In one sentence: Your delivery confirmation becomes their proof that a real customer received the item—even though you never ordered it. 

      Why It’s Called “Brushing” 

      The term comes from e-commerce, where sellers would “brush up” their sales by generating fake orders and reviews. Today, brushing scams are a global issue affecting major online marketplaces. 

      Common Items Sent in Brushing Scams 

      • Costume jewelry 
      • Small electronics or keychain gadgets 
      • Random home goods 
      • Seeds (often unmarked) 
      • Low-cost accessories 

      If the item feels random or unusually cheap, it fits the profile. 

      Are Brushing Scams Dangerous? 

      Personal Data Exposure

      The biggest red flag is that someone had your name and address, and possibly more. Brushing scams often follow data breaches or third-party leaks. 

      Account Risk

      Some platforms may temporarily flag or freeze your account if someone posts fake reviews under your name. 

      Misleading Products

      Fake reviews inflate trust and push low-quality items higher in search results. That misleads other shoppers and props up fraudulent sellers.

      Potential Safety Hazards

      Some unsolicited items—cosmetics, supplements, electronics, or seeds—may be unsafe, expired, counterfeit, or banned. 

      What To Do If You Receive an Unordered Package 

      1. Don’t use or consume the item, especially cosmetics, food, or electronics. 
      2. Check your marketplace account (Amazon, AliExpress, etc.) to confirm there’s no unauthorized order. 
      3. Report the brushing scam using the platform’s built-in reporting tools. 
      4. Update your passwords for your shopping account and linked email. 
      5. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for added security. 
      6. Monitor bank/credit card activity for unusual charges. 
      7. If the package came via USPS, you can mark it “Return to sender” without cost. 

      How to Report a Brushing Scam on Amazon 

      1. Log into your Amazon account. 
      2. Go to the Report Unsolicited Package section. 
      3. Add your tracking number and package details. 
      4. Amazon may take up to 10 days to investigate. 

      Should You Return the Package? 

      Generally: No.

      You are not legally required to return or pay for an unsolicited package. But reporting it helps platforms investigate fraudulent sellers. 

      How To Protect Yourself From Brushing Scams

      Secure Your Accounts

      Report Every Unsolicited Package

      This helps platforms identify abusive sellers.

      Verify Reviews Before Buying

      Genuine reviews mention specific details; fake ones are vague, repetitive, or overly positive.

      Stick to Well-Reviewed, Long-Standing Sellers

      Avoid newly created storefronts with few verified reviews.

      Quick FAQ 

      Why am I receiving random packages from overseas?
      It’s often part of a brushing scam where sellers need a “delivered” status to post fake reviews.

      Is a brushing scam identity theft?
      Not exactly, but it does mean someone had access to your personal data, which increases your overall risk.

      Should I throw the item away?
      You can safely discard most brushing-scam items, but avoid using them and report the incident first.

      Should I worry if I get seeds or soil?
      Yes—never plant or dispose of unknown seeds improperly. Report them to the USDA or your state agriculture office.

      Final Thoughts

      Brushing scams may seem like a harmless freebie, but they’re a sign that your personal information was exposed and could potentially be misused.

      Stay cautious, secure your accounts, report any unsolicited packages, and trust only reputable sellers. With simple steps, you can protect your identity, and avoid being pulled into a scammer’s fake review scheme.

      The post Brushing Scams: What They Are and How to Stay Safe From Unsolicited Packages appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      This Holiday Season, Watch Out for These Cyber-Grinch Tricks Used to Scam Holiday Shoppers

      By: Charles McFarland — December 11th 2024 at 16:23

      McAfee threat researchers have identified several consumer brands and product categories most frequently used by cybercriminals to trick consumers into clicking on malicious links in the first weeks of this holiday shopping season. As holiday excitement peaks and shoppers hunt for the perfect gifts and amazing deals, scammers are taking advantage of the buzz. The National Retail Federation projects holiday spending will reach between $979.5 and $989 billion this year, and cybercriminals are capitalizing by creating scams that mimic the trusted brands and categories consumers trust. From October 1 to November 12, 2024, McAfee safeguarded its customers from 624,346 malicious or suspicious URLs tied to popular consumer brand names – a clear indication that bad actors are exploiting trusted brand names to deceive holiday shoppers. 

      McAfee’s threat research also reveals a 33.82% spike in malicious URLs targeting consumers with these brands’ names in the run-up to Black Friday and Cyber Monday. This rise in fraudulent activity aligns with holiday shopping patterns during a time when consumers may be more susceptible to clicking on offers from well-known brands like Apple, Yeezy, and Louis Vuitton, especially when deals seem too good to be true – pointing to the need for consumers to stay vigilant, especially with offers that seem unusually generous or come from unverified sources.  

      McAfee threat researchers have identified a surge in counterfeit sites and phishing scams that use popular luxury brands and tech products to lure consumers into “deals” on fake e-commerce sites designed to appear as official brand pages. While footwear and handbags were identified as the top two product categories exploited by cybercrooks during this festive time, the list of most exploited brands extends beyond those borders: 

      Top Product Categories and Brands Targeted by Holiday Hustlers 

      • Product categories: Handbags and footwear were the two most common product categories for bad actors. Yeezy (shoes) and Louis Vuitton (luxury handbags) were the most common brands that trick consumers into engaging with malicious/suspicious sites. 
      • Footwear: Adidas, especially the Yeezy line, was a top target, with counterfeit sites posing as official Adidas or Yeezy outlets. 
      • Luxury goods and handbags: Louis Vuitton emerged as a frequent target, particularly its handbag line. Cybercrooks frequently set up fake sites advertising high-demand luxury items like Louis Vuitton bags and apparel. 
      • Watches: Rolex was one of the most frequently counterfeited brands, with fraudulent sites openly selling counterfeit versions of the brand’s coveted watches. 
      • Technology: Scammers frequently used the Apple brand to trick consumers, including fake customer service websites and stores selling counterfeit Apple items alongside unrelated brands. 

      By mimicking trusted brands like these, offering unbelievable deals, or posing as legitimate customer service channels, cybercrooks create convincing traps designed to steal personal information or money. Here are some of the most common tactics scammers are using this holiday season: 

      Unwrapping Cybercriminals’ Holiday Shopping Scam Tactics 

      • Fake e-commerce sites: Scammers often set up fake shopping websites mimicking official brand sites. These sites use URLs similar to those of the real brand and offer too-good-to-be-true deals to attract bargain hunters. 
      • Phishing sites with customer service bait: Particularly with tech brands like Apple, some scam sites impersonate official customer service channels to lure customers into revealing personal information. 
      • Knockoff and counterfeit products: Some scam sites advertise counterfeit items as if they are real; there is often no indication that they are not legitimate products. This tactic was common for scammers leveraging the Rolex and Louis Vuitton brands, which appeal to consumers seeking luxury goods. 

       With holiday shopping in full swing, it’s essential for consumers to stay one step ahead of scammers. By understanding the tactics cybercriminals use and taking a few precautionary measures, shoppers can protect themselves from falling victim to fraud. Here are some practical tips for safe shopping this season: 

      Smart Shopping Tips to Outsmart Holiday Scammers 

      • Stay alert, particularly during shopping scam season: The increase in malicious URLs during October and November is a strong indicator that scammers capitalize on holiday shopping behaviors. Consumers should be especially vigilant during this period and continue to exercise caution throughout the holiday shopping season. 
      • Wear a skeptic’s hat: To stay safe, consumers should verify URLs, look for signs of secure websites (like https://), and be wary of any sites offering discounts that seem too good to be true. 
      • Exercise additional caution: Adidas, Yeezy, Louis Vuitton, Apple, and Rolex are brand names frequently used by cybercrooks looking to scam consumers, so sticking with trusted sources is particularly important when shopping for these items online. 

      Research Methodology 

      McAfee’s threat research team analyzed malicious or suspicious URLs that McAfee’s web reputation technology identified as targeting customers, by using a list of key company and product brand names—based on insights from a Potter Clarkson report on frequently faked brands—to query the URLs. This methodology captures instances where users either clicked on or were directed to dangerous sites mimicking trusted brands. Additionally, the team queried anonymized user activity from October 1st through November 12th. 

      Examples: 

      The image below is a screenshot of a fake / malicious / scam site: Yeezy is a popular product brand formerly from Adidas found in multiple Malicious/Suspicious URLs. Often, they present themselves as official Yeezy and/or Adidas shopping sites. 

       

      The image below is a screenshot of a fake / malicious / scam site: The Apple brand was a popular target for scammers. Many sites were either knock offs, scams, or in this case, a fake customer service page designed to lure users into a scam. 

       

      The image below is a screenshot of a fake / malicious / scam site: This particular (fake) Apple sales site used Apple within its URL and name to appear more official. Oddly, this site also sells Samsung Android phones. 

      The image below is a screenshot of a fake / malicious / scam site: This site, now taken down, is a scam site purporting to sell Nike shoes. 

      The image below is a screenshot of a fake / malicious / scam site: Louis Vuitton is a popular brand for counterfeit and scams. Particularly their handbags. Here is one site that was entirely focused on Louis Vuitton Handbags. 

      The image below is a screenshot of a fake / malicious / scam site: This site presents itself as the official Louis Vuitton site selling handbags and clothes. 

       

      The image below is a screenshot of a fake / malicious / scam site: This site uses too-good-to-be-true deals on branded items including this Louis Vuitton Bomber jacket. 

      The image below is a screenshot of a fake / malicious / scam site: Rolex is a popular watch brand for counterfeits and scams. This site acknowledges it sells counterfeits and makes no effort to indicate this on the product.  

       

      The post This Holiday Season, Watch Out for These Cyber-Grinch Tricks Used to Scam Holiday Shoppers appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      What Is a Botnet?

      By: Jasdev Dhaliwal — November 12th 2024 at 13:00

      What is a botnet? And what does it have to do with a toaster?

      We’ll get to that. First, a definition:

      A botnet is a group of internet-connected devices that bad actors hijack with malware. Using remote controls, bad actors can harness the power of the network to perform several types of attacks. These include distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks that shut down internet services, breaking into other networks to steal data, and sending massive volumes of spam.

      In a way, the metaphor of an “army of devices” leveling a cyberattack works well. With thousands or even millions of compromised devices working in concert, bad actors can do plenty of harm. As we’ll see in a moment, they’ve done their share already.

      Which brings us back to that toaster.

      The pop-up toaster as we know it first hit the shelves in 1926, under the brand name “Toastmaster.”[i] With a familiar springy *pop*, it has ejected toast just the way we like it for nearly a century. Given that its design was so simple and effective, it’s remained largely unchanged. Until now. Thanks to the internet and so-called “smart home” devices.

      Toasters, among other things, are all getting connected. And have been for a few years now, to the point where the number of connected Internet of Things (IoT) devices reaches well into the billions worldwide — which includes smart home devices.[ii]

      Businesses use IoT devices to track shipments and various aspects of their supply chain. Cities use them to manage traffic flow and monitor energy use. (Does your home have a smart electric meter?) And for people like us, we use them to play music on smart speakers, see who’s at the front door with smart doorbells, and order groceries from an LCD screen on our smart refrigerators — just to name a few ways we’ve welcomed smart home devices into our households.

      In the U.S. alone, smart home devices make up a $30-plus billion marketplace per year.[iii] However, it’s still a relatively young marketplace. And with that comes several security issues.

      IoT security issues and big-time botnet attacks 

      First and foremost, many of these devices still lack sophisticated security measures, which makes them easy pickings for cybercriminals. Why would a cybercriminal target that smart lightbulb in your living room reading lamp? Networks are only as secure as their least secure device. Thus, if a cybercriminal can compromise that smart lightbulb, it can potentially give them access to the entire home network it is on — along with all the other devices and data on it.

      More commonly, though, hackers target smart home devices for another reason. They conscript them into botnets. It’s a highly automated affair. Hackers use bots to add devices to their networks. They scan the internet in search of vulnerable devices and use brute-force password attacks to take control of them.

      At issue: many of these devices ship with factory usernames and passwords. Fed with that info, a hacker’s bot can have a relatively good success rate because people often leave the factory password unchanged. It’s an easy in.

      Results from one real-life test show just how active these hacker bots are:

      We created a fake smart home and set up a range of real consumer devices, from televisions to thermostats to smart security systems and even a smart kettle – and hooked it up to the internet.

      What happened next was a deluge of attempts by cybercriminals and other unknown actors to break into our devices, at one stage, reaching 14 hacking attempts every single hour.

      Put another way, that hourly rate added up to more than 12,000 unique scans and attack attempts a week.[iv] Imagine all that activity pinging your smart home devices.

      Now, with a botnet in place, hackers can wage the kinds of attacks we mentioned above, particularly DDoS attacks. DDoS attacks can shut down websites, disrupt service and even choke traffic across broad swathes of the internet.

      Remember the “Mirai” botnet attack of 2016, where hackers targeted a major provider of internet infrastructure?[v] It ended up crippling traffic in concentrated areas across the U.S., including the northeast, Great Lakes, south-central, and western regions. Millions of internet users were affected, people, businesses, and government workers alike.

      Another more recent set of headline-makers are the December 2023 and July 2024 attacks on Amazon Web Services (AWS).[vi],[vii] AWS provides cloud computing services to millions of businesses and organizations, large and small. Those customers saw slowdowns and disruptions for three days, which in turn slowed down and disrupted the people and services that wanted to connect with them.

      Also in July 2024, Microsoft likewise fell victim to a DDoS attack. It affected everything from Outlook email to Azure web services, and Microsoft Office to online games of Minecraft. They all got swept up in it.[viii]

      These attacks stand out as high-profile DDoS attacks, yet smaller botnet attacks abound, ones that don’t make headlines. They can disrupt the operations of websites, public infrastructure, and businesses, not to mention the well-being of people who rely on the internet.

      Botnet attacks: Security shortcomings in IoT and smart home devices 

      Earlier we mentioned the problem of unchanged factory usernames and passwords. These include everything from “admin123” to the product’s name. Easy to remember, and highly insecure. The practice is so common that they get posted in bulk on hacking websites, making it easy for cybercriminals to simply look up the type of device they want to attack.

      Complicating security yet further is the fact that some IoT and smart home device manufacturers introduce flaws in their design, protocols, and code that make them susceptible to attacks.[ix] The thought gets yet more unsettling when you consider that some of the flaws were found in things like smart door locks.

      The ease with which IoT devices can be compromised is a big problem. The solution, however, starts with manufacturers that develop IoT devices with security in mind. Everything in these devices will need to be deployed with the ability to accept security updates and embed strong security solutions from the get-go.

      Until industry standards get established to ensure such basic security, a portion of securing your IoT and smart home devices falls on us, as people and consumers.

      Steps for a more secure network and smart devices 

      As for security, you can take steps that can help keep you safer. Broadly speaking, they involve two things: protecting your devices and protecting the network they’re on. These security measures will look familiar, as they follow many of the same measures you can take to protect your computers, tablets, and phones.

      Grab online protection for your smartphone. 

      Many smart home devices use a smartphone as a sort of remote control, not to mention as a place for gathering, storing, and sharing data. So whether you’re an Android owner or iOS owner, use online protection software on your phone to help keep it safe from compromise and attack.

      Don’t use the default — Set a strong, unique password. 

      One issue with many IoT devices is that they often come with a default username and password. This could mean that your device and thousands of others just like it all share the same credentials, which makes it painfully easy for a hacker to gain access to them because those default usernames and passwords are often published online. When you purchase any IoT device, set a fresh password using a strong method of password creation, such as ours. Likewise, create an entirely new username for additional protection as well.

      Use multi-factor authentication. 

      Online banks, shops, and other services commonly offer multi-factor authentication to help protect your accounts — with the typical combination of your username, password, and a security code sent to another device you own (often a mobile phone). If your IoT device supports multi-factor authentication, consider using it there too. It throws a big barrier in the way of hackers who simply try and force their way into your device with a password/username combination.

      Secure your internet router too. 

      Another device that needs good password protection is your internet router. Make sure you use a strong and unique password as well to help prevent hackers from breaking into your home network. Also, consider changing the name of your home network so that it doesn’t personally identify you. Fun alternatives to using your name or address include everything from movie lines like “May the Wi-Fi be with you” to old sitcom references like “Central Perk.” Also check that your router is using an encryption method, like WPA2 or the newer WPA3, which keeps your signal secure.

      Upgrade to a newer internet router. 

      Older routers might have outdated security measures, which might make them more prone to attacks. If you’re renting yours from your internet provider, contact them for an upgrade. If you’re using your own, visit a reputable news or review site such as Consumer Reports for a list of the best routers that combine speed, capacity, and security.

      Update your apps and devices regularly. 

      In addition to fixing the odd bug or adding the occasional new feature, updates often fix security gaps. Out-of-date apps and devices might have flaws that hackers can exploit, so regular updating is a must from a security standpoint. If you can set your smart home apps and devices to receive automatic updates, that’s even better.

      Set up a guest network specifically for your IoT devices. 

      Just as you can offer your guests secure access that’s separate from your own devices, creating an additional network on your router allows you to keep your computers and smartphones separate from IoT devices. This way, if an IoT device is compromised, a hacker will still have difficulty accessing your other devices on your primary network, the one where you connect your computers and smartphones.

      Shop smart. 

      Read trusted reviews and look up the manufacturer’s track record online. Have their devices been compromised in the past? Do they provide regular updates for their devices to ensure ongoing security? What kind of security features do they offer? And privacy features too? Resources like Consumer Reports can provide extensive and unbiased information that can help you make a sound purchasing decision.

      Don’t let botnets burn your toast

      As more and more connected devices make their way into our homes, the need to ensure that they’re secure only increases. More devices mean more potential avenues of attack, and your home network is only as secure as the least secure device that’s on it.

      While standards put forward by industry groups such as UL and Matter have started to take root, a good portion of keeping IoT and smart home devices secure falls on us as consumers. Taking the steps above can help prevent your connected toaster from playing its part in a botnet army attack — and it can also protect your network and your home from getting hacked.

      It’s no surprise that IoT and smart home devices have raked in billions of dollars over the years. They introduce conveniences and little touches into our homes that make life more comfortable and enjoyable. However, they’re still connected devices. And like anything that’s connected, they must be protected.

      [i] https://www.hagley.org/librarynews/history-making-toast

      [ii] https://www.statista.com/statistics/1183457/iot-connected-devices-worldwide/

      [iii] https://www.statista.com/outlook/dmo/smart-home/united-states

      [iv] https://www.which.co.uk/news/article/how-the-smart-home-could-be-at-risk-from-hackers-akeR18s9eBHU

      [v] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mirai_(malware)

      [vi] https://www.darkreading.com/cloud-security/eight-hour-ddos-attack-struck-aws-customers

      [vii] https://www.forbes.com/sites/emilsayegh/2024/07/31/microsoft-and-aws-outages-a-wake-up-call-for-cloud-dependency/

      [viii] https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c903e793w74o

      [ix] https://news.fit.edu/academics-research/apps-for-popular-smart-home-devices-contain-security-flaws-new-research-finds/

       

      The post What Is a Botnet? appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      How To Protect Yourself from Black Friday and Cyber Monday AI Scams 

      By: Amy Bunn — November 27th 2025 at 09:30

      It usually starts with something small.

      You’re scrolling TikTok or Instagram, half-paying attention, when a Black Friday ad pops up. It looks like the brand you love—same logo, same photos, same “limited-time deal” language you’ve seen in real promos. The link takes you to a site that looks identical to the real one. The checkout page works. The confirmation email looks legit.

      Then the payment clears, and the merchant name on your bank statement doesn’t match the store at all.

      That moment, wait, what did I just buy from?, is becoming the defining holiday-shopping scam of 2025.

      This year, fake ads and cloned storefronts aren’t sketchy one-offs or typo-filled red flags. They’re polished. They’re identical. And increasingly, they’re powered by AI.

      McAfee’s 2025 holiday research found that nearly half of Americans (46%) have already encountered AI-altered or AI-generated scams while shopping. And with 96% of people planning to shop online, many doing so daily, scammers know this is peak opportunity.

      Here’s how fraudsters are blending into the busiest shopping season of the year, what the data shows, and how to stay one step ahead.

      Why Scammers Are So Effective Right Now

      A perfect storm is happening:

      People are shopping more often.
      Nearly half of U.S. adults expect to shop online daily or multiple times per day during the holidays.

      People are rushed.
      From early Black Friday “price drop” alerts to Cyber Monday countdowns, shoppers don’t slow down to verify what they’re seeing.

      AI makes scam content nearly flawless.
      McAfee found technology email scams surging ~85%, retail email scams rising ~50%, and fraudulent URLs climbing across the board—from counterfeit Apple support pages to fake Costco refund portals.

      Holiday deals are already rolling out—and so are the scams.

      McAfee’s 2025 holiday research shows major spikes in email scams (~50% increase), technology scams (~85% increase), and fake storefronts that mimic trusted retailers. AI tools are making these scams faster, more realistic, and harder to spot.

      It’s not that shoppers suddenly got careless.

      It’s that scammers suddenly got good.

      This shows a SMishing text from a fake Amazon. Companies won't text you like this.
      This shows a SMishing text from a fake Amazon. Companies won’t text you like this.

      The 2025 Scams Hitting Shoppers the Hardest

      1. Fake Retail Sites & “Deal” Pages That Look Real

      This is the big one, and it’s getting cleaner every year.

      Scammers lift entire storefronts:

      • Logos
      • Product photos
      • Sale graphics
      • Checkout flows
      • Even fake customer service pages

      The only giveaway? A URL that’s juuust slightly off—“target-sale.com” instead of “target.com,” or a link ending in “.shop” or “.store” rather than a brand’s normal domain.

      Once you enter your payment info, it goes directly into a database that criminals resell or use to make purchases.

      How to spot and avoid this scam: Skip the ad. Type the retailer’s name into your browser yourself. If it’s a real deal, you’ll find it on their actual site.

      2. TikTok, Instagram & Social Video Scams

      Short-form videos are now a prime scam vehicle.

      Scammers steal influencer footage, use AI voice clones, or generate deepfake “promo” videos with celebrities offering huge holiday discounts. When someone clicks the link, it leads straight to a counterfeit store.

      According to McAfee:

      • 46% have encountered fake influencer/celebrity endorsements
      • Younger shoppers (18–34) see them most
      • Many appear during holiday-sale cycles on TikTok Shop and Instagram Shopping
      • US – Holiday Shopping 2025 fact…

      How to spot and avoid this scam: Check the creator’s account history. Real brands don’t drop one-off promo videos from accounts you’ve never seen before. Same as our initial advice, skip the ad entirely and go directly to the official brand website rather than clicking any links.

      3. Delivery & Shipping Text Scams

      The classic delivery scam is back, with McAfee researchers finding dozens of examples of fake messages attempting to scam holiday shoppers.

      You’ll receive a text saying a package can’t be delivered or that a small fee is needed to confirm your address.

      McAfee found that 43% of people have encountered fake delivery notifications, and many victims say they entered credit card information thinking they were resolving a legitimate issue.

      How to spot and avoid this scam: UPS, USPS, and FedEx will never send a clickable payment link in a text. If you’re wondering about a specific delivery, go directly to the site you ordered it from, or your original receipt in your email to find your tracking information.

      4. Account Verification & Gift Card Scams

      These hit during the weeks leading up to the holidays.

      Messages claim:

      • Your Amazon account is locked
      • Your Apple ID has “suspicious activity”
      • Your loyalty points are expiring
      • You must verify your payment information
      • You must pay a fee or gift card to resolve an issue

      How to spot and avoid this scam:
      No legitimate company will ever resolve account issues through gift cards or text-confirmation codes.

      How AI Is Supercharging These Scams

      Not long ago, scam emails had broken English and pixelated logos.

      Now scammers use generative AI to:

      • Clone real brand websites
      • Rewrite perfect phishing emails
      • Fake customer service chatbots
      • Produce Hyper-real video ads
      • Replicate influencer voices
      • Generate thousands of unique scam texts instantly

      And people are noticing.

      57% of shoppers say they’re more concerned about AI scams this year than last.

      Yet 38% believe they can spot scams—even though 22% have fallen for one.

      Confidence ≠ protection.

      Fake designer websites like this page for Gucci shirts are deceptive and look close to the real thing.
      Fake designer websites like this page for Gucci shirts are deceptive and look close to the real thing.

      What to Do if You Think You’ve Encountered a Scam

      If something feels off—a message, a link, a charge on your bank statement—don’t panic. Most holiday scams rely on speed and confusion. Slowing down and taking a few simple steps can keep a bad situation from turning into real damage.

      1. Stop engaging immediately

      Close the tab, delete the message, and don’t click anything else.
      Scammers often stack multiple pop-ups or redirects to pressure you into acting fast.

      2. Don’t enter any additional information

      If you started typing in a password or card number but didn’t hit “submit,” back out.
      If you did enter details, move to the next steps right away.

      3. Change your passwords (starting with the affected account)

      Use a strong, unique password—especially for accounts tied to:

      • email
      • shopping apps
      • banking
      • cloud storage

      A reused password is how one compromised login unlocks everything else. McAfee offers a password manager to help you make and store strong, unique passwords.

      4. Check your bank or credit card for unexpected charges

      Fraud usually starts small: $1–$5 “test” charges, odd merchant names, or tiny withdrawals.
      If you see anything suspicious, contact your bank and request:

      • a card replacement
      • a fraud alert
      • a temporary account freeze, if necessary

      5. Run a security scan on your device

      Some fake sites drop malware or spyware quietly in the background.
      A quick scan can detect:

      • malicious downloads
      • browser hijackers
      • unsafe extensions
      • keyloggers

      McAfee offers a free antivirus trial that you can use to scan your device and check for compromises.

      6. Report the scam

      Reporting helps stop other shoppers from being targeted.
      You can report scams to:

      • the retailer being impersonated
      • the platform where you saw the ad (TikTok, Instagram, Facebook)
      • your national fraud reporting center

      7. Let technology help you clean up

      McAfee can automatically detect whether the link, message, or site you interacted with is malicious—and alert you if your information may have been exposed.
      Tools like:

      can help contain an issue before it turns into identity theft.

      We offer a free antivirus trial to help protect your devices.
      We offer a free antivirus trial to help protect your devices.

      Need a Gift for the Practical Person in Your Life? Consider Giving Them Scam Protection

      There’s always someone on your holiday list who doesn’t want more stuff, they want something useful. The friend who loves a clean inbox. The sibling who’s constantly traveling. The parent who keeps forwarding you suspicious texts asking, “Is this real?”

      For them, security might actually be the most thoughtful gift you can give this year.

      Online safety tools aren’t flashy, but they are the thing people reach for the moment they click the wrong link, lose a password, or get a sketchy delivery text. And with scams more believable than ever, digital protection has quietly become a new “practical essential,” like a good VPN or a reliable password manager.

      Gifting McAfee means giving someone:

      Scam protection that works quietly in the background
      Scam Detector flags dangerous messages, deepfake-style content, and fake shopping sites before they ever interact with them.

      Identity & financial monitoring
      A huge help for anyone who’s been burned by fraud in the past — or is tired of checking bank statements manually.

      Password security that doesn’t require them to remember anything
      Perfect for the person who uses the same password everywhere (and you know exactly who I mean).

      Device protection for laptops, phones, and tablets
      Which is especially relevant for people shopping, traveling, or working remotely through the holiday season.

      It’s practical. It’s protective. And unlike most presents, it’s something they’ll use all year.

      The post How To Protect Yourself from Black Friday and Cyber Monday AI Scams  appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      How to Reset Your Gmail Password After Being Hacked

      By: Jasdev Dhaliwal — October 15th 2024 at 12:08

      If you think your Gmail account’s been hacked, you’ll want to act. And act quickly.

      The fact is that your email has all manner of personal info in there. Receipts, tax correspondence, medical info, and so on. With a hacked account, that info might get deleted, shared, or used against you for identity theft.

      Luckily, Google has mechanisms in place to restore a hacked Gmail account. We’ll walk through the steps here — and a few others that can keep you secure in the long term after you have your account back.

      What are signs that your Gmail account got hacked?

      Several things can tip you off, including:

      • Discovering sent messages that you didn’t send.
      • Changes to the labels or filters that help organize your mail.
      • Updates to your security settings.
      • You can’t log into your account with your password.
      • Your account has been deleted entirely.

      With varying degrees of certainty, those are some signs that your account has been hacked.

      Also, many people have a Google Account linked with their Gmail password and login. Beyond email, that might include files in Google Drive, photos, a YouTube account, and other features that contain personal info. In those cases, that only increases the potential harm of a hacked account.

      Additionally, services like Google Pay and Google Play complicate matters more in the event of a hacked account because they contain financial info.

      If you see any unusual changes in those apps or services, that might be a sign of a hacked account as well.

      What to do if you can’t access your Gmail account

      If you think someone else has changed your password or deleted your account, head to Google’s account recovery page. It’ll take you through a multi-step process to restore your account.

      With that, you’ll want to do some quick prep. First, do your best to begin the recovery process with a device that you typically use to access your account. Also, if possible, do it in a location where you typically access your account. This provides Google with identifiers that you are who you say you are.

      After that, gather up your Gmail account passwords, old and current. The recovery page will ask for them, along with other questions. Do your best to answer each question the very best you can. There’s no penalty for a wrong answer and the more info you can provide, the better.

      If you can access your Gmail account, but you think someone else is using it

      If you can log into your account, yet worry it’s been hacked, take these steps:

      • Go to your Google Account login page at: https://myaccount.google.com/
      • In the menu, select Security -> Recent security events.
      • Look for any suspicious activity and mark the events “Yes” or “No” if you did or didn’t do them yourself.
      • Next, select Security -> Manage devices.
      • If you find a device that you don’t recognize: Select “Don’t recognize a device?” Then, follow the steps on the screen to help secure your account.
      • Lastly, select Security -> Your devices -> Manage all devices.
      • Select any unfamiliar device and then sign it out.

      Next, run a virus scan on your device. Your password might have gotten compromised in one of several ways, including malware. This can remove any malware that might be spying on your device (and your passwords).

      At this point, create a new password that’s strong and unique. Use at least 14 characters using a mix of upper- and lowercase letters, symbols, and numbers. Or have a password manager do that work for you.

      And finally, set two-factor verification on your account if you aren’t already using it. This makes your account far tougher to hack, as two-factor verification requires a unique code to log in. One that only you receive. And just like with your password, never share your unique code. Anyone asking for it is a scammer.

      Looking ahead: Ways you can prevent your Gmail account from getting hacked

      By taking the steps we just covered, you’ve done two important things that can protect you moving forward. One is setting up a strong, unique password. The second is using two-factor verification.

      The next thing is to get comprehensive online protection in place. Protection like you’ll find in our McAfee+ plans offers several features that can keep you and your accounts safe.

      Once again, your password got compromised one way or another. It could have been spyware on your device. It could have been a phishing attack. It could have been a data breach. The list goes on. However, we refer to it as comprehensive online protection because it’s exactly that. In addition to antivirus, our McAfee+ plans have dozens of features that can protect your devices, identity, and privacy.

      For example:

      • It has the password manager we mentioned above, which can protect all your accounts online with strong, unique passwords.
      • Our multi-award-winning antivirus detects and removes malware that tries to steal your personal info.
      • It also has protections against phishing attacks and against websites that try to steal passwords and personal info — like our Text Scam Detector and Web Protection.
      • Our McAfee+ plans also have identity monitoring, so if your accounts or personal info crop up on the dark web, you’ll get notified.
      • And our plans also include Online Account Cleanup. It scans for accounts you no longer use and helps you delete them, along with your personal info, so you’re less exposed to data breaches.

      Recovering from a hacked Gmail account

      The important thing is this: if you think your Gmail account got hacked, act quickly. You might have much more than just your email linked to that account. Files, photos, and finances might be tied to it as well.

      Even if something looks just slightly off, act as if your account got hacked. Log in, change your password, establish two-step verification if you haven’t, and take the other steps mentioned above. Above and beyond your email and all the personal info packed in there, your account can give a hacker access to plenty more.

      The post How to Reset Your Gmail Password After Being Hacked appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      What Are the 6 Types of Identity Theft

      By: Jasdev Dhaliwal — October 4th 2024 at 11:27

      You crack open your credit card statement and something seems … off. Maybe it’s a couple of small online purchases that make you think, “Hmm, that’s strange.” Or maybe a statement shows up in your mailbox — one for a card that you don’t own at all. That calls for a huge “What the heck???” Sure enough, you’re looking at cases of identity fraud and theft.

      And there’s a difference between identity fraud and identity theft. It’s subtle. And because of that, they often get used interchangeably. Each one can really sting but in different ways.

      Identity fraud is…

      • When someone steals your personal info to tap into an account you already have.
      • Examples:
        • A crook gets hold of your debit card info from a data breach and buys a video game console with it.
        • You fall victim to a phishing attack while buying concert tickets. The crooks bundle up your credit card info with the info from thousands of other victims. Then they sell it on the dark web.

      Identity theft is…

      • When someone uses your personal info to open new accounts in your name — or impersonates you in other ways.
      • Examples:
        • A crook uses your personal info to open a new line of credit at a furniture store under your name and buys a couple of massaging recliners with it.
        • A criminal uses your Social Security Number (SSN) to create a driver’s license with their likeness but with your name and personal info.

      So, put simply, identity fraud involves stealing from an existing account. Identity theft means that someone used your personal info to impersonate you in some way, such as opening new accounts in your name.

      Top forms of identity theft and fraud

      Each year, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) publishes a data book that collects consumer reports of fraud, identity theft, and other similar crimes. Using the most recent data from the FTC, we can plot what the top forms of identity theft and fraud look like.

      Credit cards

      By far the top form of identity theft and fraud. As mentioned in the examples above, these can include crooks who string out several small purchases over time. All in the hope that the cardholder will overlook it. It can also include a one-whopper of a purchase for a big-ticket item. Here, the crook knows the card will likely get canceled quickly afterward. It’s a one-and-done deal.

      Loans and leases

      Second, we have loans and leases. This can range from student loans, personal loans, and auto loans, and to real estate rentals as well. Common across them all is someone impersonating you to take them out or tap into their funds in some way.

      Bank accounts

      Here, the creation of totally new accounts leads the way in this category. As we described above, that’s a form of identity theft. Yet identity fraud accounts for a noticeable chuck, which includes account takeovers. In these cases, crooks siphon off funds via debit cards, Electronic Funds Transfer (ETF), and other forms of withdrawal and transfer.

      ID and government benefits

      This covers cases where crooks use stolen personal info to get IDs. That includes driver’s licenses, passports, and other government documentation. Further, this category also encompasses the theft of government-issued benefits ranging from medical assistance to veteran’s pay.

      Tax returns

      While all forms of identity theft and fraud can pack a punch, this type hits particularly hard because it involves your SSN. Around tax time, scammers with access to SSNs will file bogus returns, all with the aim of claiming the refund for themselves.

      Utilities

      Largely, this involves people buying cell phones and opening new mobile accounts along with them. Yet it also includes people opening other utilities in other people’s names. Indeed, crooks will scam their way into getting free electricity, water, gas, and yes…cable TV.

      Other important forms of identity theft and fraud to keep in mind

      Although these forms don’t top the list in terms of reports, they still bear mentioning. They’re serious enough, and they can go undetected for some time before their victims find out.

      Medical identity theft

      In this form, an imposter receives care, medications, or medical devices in someone else’s name. They might pass off phony documentation to the care provider involved, the insurance company that pays for the care, or a combination of the two. A few things can happen as a result. It can impact the care you can get and the benefits you can use. In extreme cases, the thief’s health info can get mixed in with yours and impact your care. Medical identity theft is a good reason to closely review all the medical and insurance statements you get.

      Child identity theft

      Imagine your child about to rent a first apartment. The property management company runs a credit check, only to find a horrendous credit rating. But how? An identity thief has been using your child’s identity for years now. After all, what parent thinks, “I really should run a credit report on my kindergartener.” And that’s fair. However, signing up your child for identity is a sound move. It can help spot if your child’s identity got stolen.

      Steps to take if you suspect that you’re the victim of identity theft

      1) Notify the companies and institutions involved and consider a credit freeze.

      Whether you spot a curious charge on your bank statement or you discover what looks like a fraudulent account in your credit monitoring service, let the bank or business involved know you suspect fraud. With a visit to their website, you can track down the appropriate number to call and get the investigation process started.

      In the meantime, consider putting a security freeze in place. A security freeze service prevents others from opening new credit, bank, and utility accounts in your name.​ It won’t hit your credit score, and you can unfreeze it when needed. You’ll find this feature in our McAfee+ plans as well.

      2) File a police report.

      Some businesses will require you to file a local police report to acquire a case number to complete your claim. Beyond that, filing a report is still a good idea. Identity theft is still theft, and reporting it provides an official record of it.

      Should your case of identity theft lead to someone impersonating you or committing a crime in your name, filing a police report right away can help you clear your name down the road. Likewise, save any evidence you have, such as statements or documents associated with the theft. They can help you clean up your record as well.

      3) Contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

      The FTC’s identity theft website is a fantastic resource should you find yourself in need. Above and beyond simply reporting the theft, the FTC can provide you with a step-by-step recovery plan—and even walk you through the process if you create an account with them. Additionally, reporting theft to the FTC can prove helpful if debtors come knocking to collect on any bogus charges in your name. You can provide them with a copy of your FTC report and ask them to stop.

      4) Contact the IRS, if needed.

      If you receive a notice from the IRS that someone used your identity to file a tax return in your name, follow the information provided by the IRS in the notice. From there, you can file an identity theft affidavit with the IRS. If the notice mentions that you were paid by an employer you don’t know, contact that employer as well and let them know of possible fraud — namely that someone has stolen your identity and that you don’t truly work for them.

      Also, be aware that the IRS has specific guidelines as to how and when they will contact you. As a rule, they will most likely contact you via physical mail delivered by the U.S. Postal Service. (They won’t call, nor will they call and apply harassing pressure tactics — only scammers do that.) Identity-based tax scams are a topic all of their own, and for more on it, you can check out this article on tax scams and how to avoid them.

      5) Continue to monitor your credit report, invoices, and statements.

      Another downside of identity theft is that it can mark the start of a long, drawn-out affair. One instance of theft can possibly lead to another, so even what may appear to be an isolated bad charge on your credit card calls for keeping an eye on your identity. Many of the tools you would use up to this point still apply, such as checking up on your credit reports, maintaining fraud alerts as needed, in addition to reviewing your accounts closely.

      Several features in our McAfee+ plans can do this work, and quite a bit more, for you:

      • Credit Monitoring helps you keep an eye on changes to your credit score, report, and accounts with timely notifications. Spot something unusual? It offers guidance so you can tackle identity theft.
      • Identity Monitoring checks the dark web for your personal info, including email, government IDs, credit card and bank account numbers, and more. If any of it shows up on the dark web, it sends you an alert with guidance that can help protect you from identity theft.
      • Our online protection software also offers several transaction monitoring features. They track transactions on credit cards and bank accounts — shooting you a notice if unusual activity occurs. They also track retirement accounts, investments, and loans for questionable transactions. Finally, further features can help prevent a bank account takeover and keep others from taking out short-term payday loans in your name.
      • And finally, should the unexpected happen, our Identity Theft Coverage & Restoration can get you on the path to recovery. It offers up to $2 million in coverage for legal fees, travel, and funds lost because of identity theft. Further, a licensed recovery pro can do the work for you, taking the necessary steps to repair your identity and credit.

      The post What Are the 6 Types of Identity Theft appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      How to Spot Fake Login Pages 

      By: Jasdev Dhaliwal — September 6th 2024 at 12:23

      Have you ever come across a website that just didn’t look quite right? Perhaps the company logo looked slightly misshapen, or the font seemed off-brand. Odds are, you landed on a phony version of a legitimate corporation’s website—a tried and true tactic relied on by many cyber criminals.  

      Fake Login Pages Explained  

      A fake login page is essentially a knock-off of a real login page used to trick people into entering their login credentials, which hackers can later use to break into online accounts. These websites mirror legitimate pages by using company logos, fonts, formatting, and overall templates. Depending on the attention to detail put in by the hackers behind the imposter website, it can be nearly impossible to distinguish from the real thing. Consequentially, fake login pages can be highly effective in their end goal: credential theft.  

      How do these pages get in front of a consumer in the first place? Typically, scammers will target unsuspecting recipients with phishing emails spoofing a trusted brand. These emails may state that the user needs to reset their password or entice them with a deal that sounds too good to be true. If the consumer clicks on the link in the email, they will be directed to the fake login page and asked to enter their username and password. Once they submit their information, cybercriminals can use the consumer’s data to conduct credential-stuffing attacks and hack their online profiles. This could lead to credit card fraud, data extraction, wire transfers, identity theft, and more. 

      Why Fake Login Pages Are Effective  

      If you Google “fake login pages,” you will quickly find countless guides on how to create fake websites in seconds. Ethical concerns aside, this demonstrates just how common vector-spoofed websites are for cyberattacks. While it has been easier to distinguish between real and fake login pages in the past, criminals are constantly updating their techniques to be more sophisticated, therefore making it more difficult for consumers to recognize their fraudulent schemes.  

      One reason why fake login pages are so effective is due to inattentional blindness, or failure to notice something that is completely visible because of a lack of attention. One of the most famous studies on inattentional blindness is the “invisible gorilla test.” In this study, participants watched a video of people dressed in black and white shirts passing basketballs. Participants were asked to count the number of times the team in white passed the ball: 

      Because participants were intently focused on counting the number of times the players in white passed the ball, more than 50% failed to notice the person in the gorilla costume walking through the game. If this is the first time you’ve seen this video, it’s likely that you didn’t notice the gorilla, the curtain changing color from red to gold, or the player in black leaving the game. Similarly, if you come across a well-forged login page and aren’t actively looking for signs of fraud, you could inherently miss a cybercriminal’s “invisible gorilla.” That’s why it’s crucial for even those with phishing training to practice caution when they come across a website asking them to take action or enter personal details.  

      How to Steer Clear of Fake Login Pages  

      The most important defense against steering clear of fake login pages is knowing how to recognize them. Follow these tips to help you decipher between a legitimate and a fake website:  

      1. Don’t fall for phishing  

      Most fake login pages are circulated via phishing messages. If you receive a suspicious message that asks for personal details, there are a few ways to determine if it was sent by a phisher aiming to steal your identity. Phishers often send messages with a tone of urgency, and they try to inspire extreme emotions such as excitement or fear. If an unsolicited email urges you to “act fast!” slow down and evaluate the situation. 

      2. Look for misspellings or grammatical errors  

      Oftentimes, hackers will use a URL for their spoofed website that is just one character off from the legitimate site, such as using “www.rbcr0yalbank.com” versus “www.rbcroyalbank.com.” Before clicking on any website from an email asking you to act, hover over the link with your cursor. This will allow you to preview the URL and identify any suspicious misspellings or grammatical errors before navigating to a potentially dangerous website. 

      3. Ensure the website is secured with HTTPS 

      HTTPS, or Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure, is a protocol that encrypts your interaction with a website. Typically, websites that begin with HTTPS and feature a padlock in the top left corner are considered safer. However, cybercriminals have more recently developed malware toolkits that leverage HTTPS to hide malware from detection by various security defenses. If the website is secured with HTTPS, ensure that this isn’t the only way you’re analyzing the page for online safety.  

      4. Enable multi-factor authentication  

      Multi-factor authentication requires that users confirm a collection of things to verify their identity—usually something they have, and a factor unique to their physical being—such as a retina or fingerprint scan. This can prevent a cybercriminal from using credential-stuffing tactics (where they will use email and password combinations to hack into online profiles) to access your network or account if your login details were ever exposed during a data breach.  

      5. Sign up for an identity theft alert service 

      An identity theft alert service warns you about suspicious activity surrounding your personal information, allowing you to jump to action before irreparable damage is done. McAfee+ not only keeps your devices safe from viruses but gives you the added peace of mind that your identity is secure, as well.  

      The post How to Spot Fake Login Pages  appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      Is Your Smart Home Vulnerable to a Hack Attack?

      By: Jasdev Dhaliwal — August 29th 2024 at 11:20

      Your smart home hums right along. It sets your alarm, opens your garage door, pops up recipes on your refrigerator screen, turns up your lighting, and even spins selections as your in-house DJ. That’s to name just a few of the things it can do. Yet with all these connected conveniences, can smart homes get hacked?

      The short answer is, unfortunately, yes. Yet you have plenty of ways you can prevent it from happening.

      Why do hackers target smart homes?

      Smart homes and the Internet of Things (IoT) devices that populate them often offer prime targets for hackers. The reason? Many IoT smart home devices have poor security features in place. And because a home network is only as strong as its weakest point, smart home devices offer a ready means of entry. With that access to the network, a hacker has access to all the other devices on it…computers, tablets, smartphones, baby monitors, and alarm systems. Everything.

      Recent research sheds light on what’s at stake. Cybersecurity teams at the Florida Institute of Technology found that companion apps for several big brand smart devices had security flaws. Of the 20 apps linked to connected doorbells, locks, security systems, televisions, and cameras they studied, 16 had “critical cryptographic flaws” that might allow attackers to intercept and modify their traffic. These flaws might lead to the theft of login credentials and spying, the compromise of the connected device, or the compromise of other devices and data on the network.[i]

      Over the years, our research teams at McAfee Labs have uncovered similar security vulnerabilities in other IoT devices like smart coffee makers and smart wall plugs.

      Let’s imagine a smart lightbulb with poor security measures. As part of your home network, a motivated hacker might target it, compromise it, and gain access to the other devices on your network. In that way, a lightbulb might lead to your laptop — and all the files and data on it.

      In all, hackers have many reasons why they might break into your smart home.

      How you can protect your smart home devices

      You can take several steps to make your current smart home safer. Some of them involve protecting your devices, while others focus on protecting your home network.

      1. Update your devices. Some manufacturers keep devices current better than others, yet always check for updates. They often include security fixes and other measures to keep hackers out.
      2. Use strong, unique passwords. Every device of yours should have one, along with a unique username. In some cases, connected devices ship with default usernames and passwords, making them that much easier to hack.[ii]
      3. Use multi-factor authentication. Our banks, medical providers, and numerous other services use multi-factor authentication to keep hackers from hijacking accounts. If your smart home device supports two-factor authentication as part of the login procedure, put it to use and get that extra layer of security.
      4. Secure your internet router. Your router acts as the internet’s gateway into your home. From there, it works as a hub that connects all your devices — computers, tablets, and phones, plus your IoT devices as well. That means it’s vital to keep your router secure. The first thing to do is change the default password of your router if you haven’t done so already. Again, use a strong method of password creation. Also, change the name of your router. When you choose a new one, go with a name that doesn’t give away your address or identity. Something unique and even fun like “Pizza Lovers” or “The Internet Warehouse” are options that mask your identity and are memorable for you too.
      5. Keep your router current. Routers need updates too. Many internet service providers (ISPs) automatically push firmware updates to the routers they rent or sell to their customers. Check with yours to see. Likewise, router hardware becomes outdated over time. If you rent a router from your ISP, periodically check to see if they have new equipment available. If you own your router, check to see if it uses the latest security protocols. Currently, Wi-Fi Protected Access II (WPA2) is a strong and common form. Wi-Fi Protected Access II (WPA3) is newer, stronger, and is gaining traction in the marketplace.
      6. Set up a guest network specifically for your smart devices. Just as you can offer your human guests secure access that’s separate from your own devices, creating an additional network on your router allows you to keep your computers and smartphones separate from smart devices. This way, if a smart device is compromised, a hacker will still have difficulty accessing your other devices because they’re on a different network.
      7. In the U.S., look for the Cyber Trust Mark. In 2024, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) adopted the rules and framework for a new cybersecurity certification program.[iii] The program is voluntary, yet many noteworthy brands have shown support for this new Cyber Trust Mark. The mark will show that the smart device in question uses cybersecurity best practices, which makes it less vulnerable to threats. In a way, you can liken it to the Energy Star certification for appliances — a certification that can help you make a smarter purchasing decision when it comes to outfitting your smart home.
      8. Protect your phone. You’ve probably seen that you can control a lot of your connected things with your smartphone. We use them to set the temperature, turn our lights on and off, and even see who’s at the front door. With that, it seems like we can add the label “universal remote control” to our smartphones — so protecting our phones has become yet more important. Whether you’re an Android or iOS device user, get security software installed on your phone so you can protect all the things it accesses and controls — in addition to you and the phone as well.

      And protect yourself too

      Aside from protecting your devices, there’s protecting yourself. Comprehensive online protection software will protect your privacy and identity as well. Depending on your location and the plan you select, ours includes up to $2 million in identity theft coverage, plus features that clean up old and risky online accounts. Further features remove your personal info from the sketchiest of online data brokers and help you monitor all your transactions in one place — including retirement and investment accounts. It’s comprehensive protection for a reason.

      Want more on setting up your smart home?

      Check out our Smart Home Security Guide. It offers further details on device protection and privacy advice for smart devices and smart speakers too. It’s free, and part of the McAfee Safety Series that covers topics ranging from online shopping and cyberbullying to identity protection and ransomware prevention.

      [i] https://news.fit.edu/academics-research/apps-for-popular-smart-home-devices-contain-security-flaws-new-research-finds/

      [ii] https://www.zdnet.com/article/hacker-leaks-passwords-for-more-than-500000-servers-routers-and-iot-devices/

      [iii] https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/DOC-401201A1.pdf

       

      The post Is Your Smart Home Vulnerable to a Hack Attack? appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      How to Spot Phishing Lures

      By: Jasdev Dhaliwal — August 23rd 2024 at 13:39

      Phishing attacks have all kinds of lures. And many are so tried and true that it makes them easy to spot.

      The target of a phishing attack is you. More specifically, your personal info and your money. Whether a scammer reaches out by email, with a text, or through a direct message, that’s what they’re after. And with a link, they whisk you off to a sketchy site designed to take them from you.

      Just how much phishing is going on? To date, we’ve identified more than half a billion malicious sites out there. A number that grows daily. Because these attacks often succeed. One big reason why — they play on people’s emotions.

      Phishing attacks always involve a form of “social engineering,” which is an academic way of saying that scammers use manipulation in their attacks. Commonly, scammers pretend to be a legitimate person or business.

      You can get a better idea of how this works by learning about some of the most popular scams circulating today:

      The CEO Scam

      This scam appears as an email from a leader in your organization, asking for highly sensitive info like company accounts, employee salaries, and Social Security numbers. The hackers “spoof”, or fake, the boss’ email address so it looks like a legitimate internal company email. That’s what makes this scam so convincing — the lure is that you want to do your job and please your boss. But keep this scam in mind if you receive an email asking for confidential or highly sensitive info. Ask the apparent sender directly whether the request is real before acting.

      The Urgent Email Attachment

      Phishing emails that try to trick you into downloading a dangerous attachment that can infect your computer and steal your private info have been around for a long time. This is because they work. You’ve probably received emails asking you to download attachments confirming a package delivery, trip itinerary, or prize. They might urge you to “respond immediately!” The lure here is offering you something you want and invoking a sense of urgency to get you to click.

      The “Lucky” Text or Email

      How fortunate! You’ve won a free gift, an exclusive service, or a great deal on a trip to Las Vegas. Just remember, whatever “limited time offer” you’re being sold, it’s probably a phishing scam designed to get you to give up your credit card number or identity info. The lure here is something free or exciting at what appears to be little or no cost to you.

      The Romance Scam

      This one can happen completely online, over the phone, or in person after contact is established. But the romance scam always starts with someone supposedly looking for love. The scammer often puts a phony ad online or poses as a friend-of-a-friend on social media and contacts you directly. But what starts as the promise of love or partnership, often leads to requests for money or pricey gifts. The scammer will sometimes spin a hardship story, saying they need to borrow money to come visit you or pay their phone bill so they can stay in touch. The lure here is simple — love and acceptance.

      How to avoid phishing attacks

      While you can’t outright stop phishing attacks from making their way to your computer or phone, you can do several things to keep yourself from falling for them. Further, you can do other things that might make it more difficult for scammers to reach you.

      • Pause and think about the message for a minute.

      The content and the tone of the message can tell you quite a lot. Threatening messages or ones that play on fear are often phishing attacks, such as angry messages from a so-called tax agent looking to collect back taxes. Other messages will lean heavily on urgency, like a phony overdue payment notice. And during the holidays, watch out for loud, overexcited messages about deep discounts on hard-to-find items. Instead of linking you to a proper e-commerce site, they might link you to a scam shopping site that does nothing but steal your money and the account info you used to pay them. In all, phishing attacks indeed smell fishy. Slow down and review that message with a critical eye. It might tip you off to a scam.

      • Deal directly with the company or organization in question.

      Some phishing attacks can look rather convincing. So much so that you’ll want to follow up on them, like if your bank reports irregular activity on your account or a bill appears to be past due. In these cases, don’t click on the link in the message. Go straight to the website of the business or organization in question and access your account from there. Likewise, if you have questions, you can always reach out to their customer service number or web page.

      • Consider the source.

      When scammers contact you via social media, that can be a tell-tale sign of a scam. Consider, would an income tax collector contact you over social media? The answer there is no. For example, in the U.S. the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) makes it clear that they will never contact taxpayers via social media. (Let alone send angry, threatening messages.) In all, legitimate businesses and organizations don’t use social media as a channel for official communications. They’ve accepted ways they will, and will not, contact you. If you have any doubts about a communication you received, contact the business or organization in question directly. Follow up with one of their customer service representatives.

      • Don’t download attachments. And most certainly don’t open them.

      Some phishing attacks involve attachments packed with malware, like ransomware, viruses, and keyloggers. If you receive a message with such an attachment, delete it. Even if you receive an email with an attachment from someone you know, follow up with that person. Particularly if you weren’t expecting an attachment from them. Scammers often hijack or spoof email accounts of everyday people to spread malware.

      • Hover over links to verify the URL.

      On computers and laptops, you can hover your cursor over links without clicking on them to see the web address. Take a close look at the addresses the message is using. If it’s an email, look at the email address. Maybe the address doesn’t match the company or organization at all. Or maybe it looks like it almost does, yet it adds a few letters or words to the name. This marks yet another sign that you might have a phishing attack on your hands. Scammers also use the common tactic of a link shortener, which creates links that almost look like strings of indecipherable text. These shortened links mask the true address, which might indeed be a link to a scam site. Delete the message. If possible, report it. Many social media platforms and messaging apps have built-in controls for reporting suspicious accounts and messages.

      • Go with who you know.

      On social media and messaging platforms, stick to following, friending, and messaging people who you really know. As for those people who contact you out of the blue, be suspicious. Sad to say, they’re often scammers canvassing these platforms for victims. Better yet, where you can, set your profile to private, which makes it more difficult for scammers to select and stalk you for an attack.

      • Remove your personal info from sketchy data broker sites.

      How’d that scammer get your phone number or email address anyway? Chances are, they pulled that info off a data broker site. Data brokers buy, collect, and sell detailed personal info, which they compile from several public and private sources, such as local, state, and federal records, plus third parties like supermarket shopper’s cards and mobile apps that share and sell user data. Moreover, they’ll sell it to anyone who pays for it, including people who’ll use that info for scams. You can help reduce those scam texts and calls by removing your info from those sites. Our Personal Data Cleanup scans some of the riskiest data broker sites and shows you which ones are selling your personal info.

      • Use online protection software.

      Online protection software can protect you in several ways. First, it can offer web protection features that can identify malicious links and downloads, which can help prevent clicking them. Further, features like our web protection can steer you away from dangerous websites and block malware and phishing sites if you accidentally click on a malicious link. Additionally, our Scam Protection feature warns you of sketchy links in emails, texts, and messages. And overall, strong virus and malware protection can further block any attacks on your devices. Be sure to protect your smartphones in addition to your computers and laptops as well, particularly given all the sensitive things we do on them, like banking, shopping, and booking rides and travel.

      The post How to Spot Phishing Lures appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      How to Protect Your Personal Info

      By: Amy Bunn — November 21st 2024 at 13:30

      Whether it tags along via a smartphone, laptop, tablet, or wearable, it seems like the internet follows us wherever we go nowadays. Yet there’s something else that follows us around as well — a growing body of personal info that we create while banking, shopping, and simply browsing the internet. And no doubt about it, our info is terrifically valuable.

      What makes it so valuable? It’s no exaggeration to say that your personal info is the key to your digital life, along with your financial and civic life as well. Aside from using it to create accounts and logins, it’s further tied to everything from your bank accounts and credit cards to your driver’s license and your tax refund.

      Needless to say, your personal info is something that needs protecting, so let’s check out several ways you can do just that.

      What is personal info?

      What is personal info? It’s info about you that others can use to identify you either directly or indirectly. Thus, that info could identify you on its own. Or it could identify you when it’s linked to other identifiers, like the ones linked with the devices, apps, tools, and protocols you use.

      A prime example of direct personal info is your tax ID number because it’s unique and directly tied to your name. Further instances include your facial image to unlock your smartphone, your medical records, your finances, and your phone number because each of these can be easily linked back to you.

      Then there are those indirect pieces of personal info that act as helpers. While they might not identify you on their own, a few of them can when they’re added together. These helpers include things like internet protocol addresses, the unique device ID of your smartphone, or other identifiers such as radio frequency identification tags.

      You can also find pieces of your personal info in the accounts you use, like your Google to Apple IDs, which can be linked to your name, your email address, and the apps you have. You’ll also find it in the apps you use. For example, there’s personal info in the app you use to map your walks and runs, because the combination of your smartphone’s unique device ID and GPS tracking can be used in conjunction with other info to identify who you are. Not to mention where you typically like to do your 5k hill days. The same goes for messenger apps, which can collect how you interact with others, how often you use the app, and your location info based on your IP address, GPS info, or both.

      In all, there’s a cloud of personal info that follows us around as we go about our day online. Some wisps of that cloud are more personally identifying than others. Yet gather enough of it, and your personal info can create a high-resolution snapshot of you — who you are, what you’re doing, when you’re doing it, and even where you’re doing it, too — particularly if it gets into the wrong hands.

      Remember Pig-Pen, the character straight from the old funny pages of Charles Schultz’s Charlie Brown? He’s hard to forget with that ever-present cloud of dust following him around. Charlie Brown once said, “He may be carrying the soil that trod upon by Solomon or Nebuchadnezzar or Genghis Khan!” It’s the same with us and our personal info, except the cloud surrounding us, isn’t the dust of kings and conquerors. They’re motes of info that are of tremendously high value to crooks and bad actors — whether for purposes of identity theft or invasion of privacy.

      Protecting your personal info protects your identity and privacy

      With all the personal info we create and share on the internet, that calls for protecting it. Otherwise, our personal info could fall into the hands of a hacker or identity thief and end up getting abused, in potentially painful and costly ways.

      Here are several things you can do to help ensure that what’s private stays that way:

      1) Use a complete security platform that can also protect your privacy.

      Square One is to protect your devices with comprehensive online protection software. This defends you against the latest virus, malware, spyware, and ransomware attacks plus further protects your privacy and identity. Also, it can provide strong password protection by generating and automatically storing complex passwords to keep your credentials safer from hackers and crooks who might try to force their way into your accounts.

      Further, security software can also include a firewall that blocks unwanted traffic from entering your home network, such as an attacker poking around for network vulnerabilities so that they can “break in” to your computer and steal info.

      2) Use a VPN.

      Also known as a virtual private network, a VPN helps protect your vital personal info and other data with bank-grade encryption. The VPN encrypts your internet connection to keep your online activity private on any network, even public networks. Using a public network without a VPN can increase your risk because others on the network can potentially spy on your browsing and activity.

      If you’re new to the notion of using a VPN, check out this article on VPNs and how to choose one so that you can get the best protection and privacy possible. (Our McAfee+ plans offer a VPN as part of your subscription.)

      3) Keep a close grip on your Social Security Number.

      In the U.S., the Social Security Number (SSN) is one of the most prized pieces of personal info as it unlocks the door to employment, finances, and much more. First up, keep a close grip on it. Literally. Store your card in a secure location. Not your purse or wallet.

      Certain businesses and medical practices might ask you for your SSN for billing purposes and the like. You don’t have to provide it (although some businesses could refuse service if you don’t), and you can always ask if they will accept some alternative form of info. However, there are a handful of instances where an SSN is a requirement. These include:

      • Employment or contracting with a business.
      • Group health insurance.
      • Financial and real estate transactions.
      • Applying for credit cards, car loans, and so forth.

      Be aware that hackers often get a hold of SSNs because the organization holding that info gets hacked or compromised itself. Minimizing how often you provide your SSN can offer an extra degree of protection.

      4) Protect your files.

      Protecting your files with encryption is a core concept in data and info security, and thus it’s a powerful way to protect your personal info. It involves transforming data or info into code that requires a digital key to access it in its original, unencrypted format. For example, McAfee+ includes File Lock, which is our file encryption feature that lets you lock important files in secure digital vaults on your device.

      Additionally, you can also delete sensitive files with an application such as McAfee Shredder, which securely deletes files so that thieves can’t access them. (Quick fact: deleting files in your trash doesn’t delete them in the truest sense. They’re still there until they’re “shredded” or otherwise overwritten such that they can’t be restored.)

      5) Steer clear of those internet “quizzes.”

      Which Marvel Universe superhero are you? Does it really matter? After all, such quizzes and social media posts are often grifting pieces of your personal info in a seemingly playful way. While you’re not giving up your SSN, you might be giving up things like your birthday, your pet’s name, your first car…things that people often use to compose their passwords or use as answers to common security questions on banking and financial sites. The one way to pass this kind of quiz is not to take it!

      6) Be on the lookout for phishing attacks.

      A far more direct form of separating you from your personal info is phishing attacks. Posing as emails from known or trusted brands, financial institutions, or even a friend or family member, a scammer’s attack will try to trick you into sharing important info like your logins, account numbers, credit card numbers, and so on under the guise of providing customer service.

      How do you spot such emails? Well, it’s getting a little tougher nowadays because scammers are getting more sophisticated and can make their phishing emails look increasingly legitimate. Even more so with AI tools. However, there are several ways you can spot a phishing email and phony websites. Moreover, our McAfee Scam Protection can do it for you.

      7) Keep mum in your social media profile.

      You can take two steps to help protect your personal info from being at risk via social media. One, think twice about what you share in that post or photo — like the location of your child’s school or the license plate on your car. Two, set your profile to private so that only friends can see it. Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and others give you the option of making your profile and posts visible to friends only. Choosing this setting keeps the broader internet from seeing what you’re doing, saying, and posting, which can help protect your privacy and gives a scammer less info to exploit. Using our Social Privacy Manager can make that even easier. With only a few clicks, it can adjust more than 100 privacy settings across their social media accounts — making them more private as a result.

      8) Look for HTTPS when you browse.

      The “S” stands for secure. Any time you’re shopping, banking, or sharing any kind of personal info, look for “https” at the start of the web address. Some browsers also indicate HTTPS by showing a small “lock” icon. Doing otherwise on plain HTTP sites exposes your personal info for anyone who cares to monitor that site for unsecured connections.

      9) Lock your devices.

      By locking your devices, you protect yourself that much better from personal info and data theft in the event your device is lost, stolen, or even left unattended for a short stretch. Use your password, PIN, facial recognition, thumbprint ID, what have you. Just lock your stuff. In the case of your smartphones, read up on how you can locate your phone or even wipe it remotely if you need to. Apple provides iOS users with a step-by-step guide for remotely wiping devices, and Google offers up a guide for Android users as well.

      10) Keep tabs on your credit — and your personal info.

      Theft of your personal info can lead to credit cards and other accounts being opened falsely in your name. What’s more, it can take some time before you even become aware of it, such as when your credit score takes a hit or a bill collector comes calling. By checking your credit, you can fix any issues that come up, as companies typically have a clear-cut process for contesting any fraud. You can get a free credit report in the U.S. via the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and likewise, other nations like the UK have similar free offerings as well.

      Consider identity theft protection as well. A strong identity theft protection package pairs well with keeping track of your credit and offers cyber monitoring that scans the dark web to detect for misuse of your personal info. With our identity protection service, we help relieve the burden of identity theft if the unfortunate happens to you with $2M coverage for lawyer fees, travel expenses, lost wages, and more.

      The post How to Protect Your Personal Info appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      How to Protect Your Identity, Finances, and Security Online

      By: Jasdev Dhaliwal — August 15th 2024 at 11:02

      If you want to protect your identity, finances, and privacy online, you have a pretty powerful tool at hand. It’s online protection software. Today’s protection is built to get that job done.

      For starters, online protection has evolved tremendously over recent years, making it more comprehensive than ever. It goes far beyond antivirus. And it protects more than your devices. It protects you. Your identity. Your finances. Your privacy.

      Given how much of daily life has shifted to our computers and phones, like our finances and shopping, there’s a strong case for getting comprehensive online protection in place.

      Granted, we’re an online protection company. And of course, we hope you’ll give our protection like McAfee+ a close look. With that, a quick rundown of what it can do for you and your identity, finances, and privacy helps. In all, it shows just how comprehensive this protection gets.

      You can keep tabs on your identity.

      This form of protection starts with Identity Monitoring. It checks the dark web for your personal info, including email, government IDs, credit card and bank account numbers, and more. If any of it shows up on the dark web, it sends you an alert with guidance that can help protect you from identity theft.

      Should the unexpected happen, our Identity Theft Coverage & Restoration can get you on the path to recovery. It offers up to $2 million in coverage for legal fees, travel, and funds lost because of identity theft. Further, a licensed recovery pro can do the work for you, taking the necessary steps to repair your identity and credit.

      Another way identity thieves get what they want is through scam texts, emails, and messages. You can keep clear of their shady links with our new AI-powered Scam Protection. It automatically detects links that can send you to scam sites and other destinations that steal personal info. If you accidentally click? Don’t worry, we can block risky sites if you click on a suspicious link in texts, emails, social media, and more.

      You can monitor your financial big picture all in one place.

      As you conduct so many of your finances online, it only makes sense that you can keep tabs on them just as easily. Features like our Credit Monitoring keep an eye on changes to your credit score, report, and accounts with timely notifications and guidance so you can take action to tackle identity theft.

      And if you spot something out of the ordinary, our Security Freeze can quickly stop unauthorized access. It freezes credit card, bank, and utility accounts and prevents thieves from opening new ones in your name.

      Rounding things out, you also have transaction monitoring features. They track transactions on credit cards and bank accounts — shooting you a notice if unusual activity occurs. They also track retirement accounts, investments, and loans for questionable transactions. Finally, further features can help prevent a bank account takeover and keep others from taking out short-term payday loans in your name.

      You can lock down your privacy.

      Several features get the job done. Our Social Privacy Manager helps you adjust more than 100 privacy settings across your social media accounts in only a few clicks. This way, your personal info is only visible to the people you want to share it with.

      Another big intrusion on your privacy comes at the hands of online data brokers. They drive a multi-billion-dollar industry by collecting, batching, and selling people’s personal info. To anyone. That includes hackers, spammers, and scammers who use it to their own ends. Yet you can get your info removed from some of the worst offenders out there. Personal Data Cleanup scans data broker sites and shows you which ones are selling your personal info and helps you remove it.

      Another great tool for protecting your privacy comes in the form of a VPN. As a “virtual private network,” it encrypts your activity. Think of a VPN as a private tunnel for your internet traffic. It hides your search habits and history from those who might use that info to build a profile of you — whether to serve up targeted ads or to steal personal info for identity theft. In all, a VPN gives you one of the most secure ways you can go online.

      The post How to Protect Your Identity, Finances, and Security Online appeared first on McAfee Blog.

      ☐ ☆ ✇ McAfee Blogs

      How Secure is Video Conferencing?

      By: Jasdev Dhaliwal — August 13th 2024 at 12:20

      For millions of people, it’s not a workday without it — video conferencing. And plenty of business gets done that way, which has made conferencing a target for hackers. That then begs the important question, how secure is video conferencing?

      The answer is pretty secure if you’re using a reputable service. Yet you can take further steps to keep hackers and party crashers out of your meetings.

      Why would someone want to crash your meeting? 

      Hackers and party crashers are likely motivated by one of two things: financial gain or mischief.

      Given that some meetings involve confidential or sensitive info, someone might have financial motivation to join in, spy on, or record the meeting. Recently, we saw the lengths at least one AI company went to when it spied on a competitor’s video conference call.[i]

      And of course, some bad actors want to cause a disruption. As we saw in recent years, they’ll barge right into a meeting and create a ruckus with rude speech and other antics.

      Falling somewhere in between, some hackers might try to intrude on a meeting and slip a malware-laden attachment into chat.[ii] For one, that can lead to a major disruption. And in a business context, financial disruption as well.

      How do they pull it off? The typical avenues of attack apply. They might use stolen or hijacked accounts. The meeting was inadvertently set to “public,” allowing anyone with a link to join. Otherwise, they might compromise a victim’s device to piggyback their way in.

      How to protect your video calls

      Use a service with end-to-end encryption. 

      Put simply, end-to-end encryption provides a solid defense against prying eyes. With it in place, this form of encryption makes it particularly difficult for hackers to tap into the call and the data shared within it. Secure video conferencing should use 256-bit AES GCM encryption for audio and video, and for sharing of screens, whiteboard apps, and the like. On a related note, read the service’s privacy policy and ensure that its privacy, security, and data measures fit your needs.

      Make your meetings private and protect them with a password. 

      Keep the uninvited out. First, setting your meeting to private (invitees only) will help keep things secure. Some apps also provide a notification to the meeting organizer when an invite gets forwarded. Use that feature if it’s available. Also, a password provides another hurdle for a hacker or bad actor to clear. Use a fresh one for each meeting.

      Use the waiting room. 

      Many services put attendees into a waiting room before they enter the meeting proper. Use this feature to control who comes in and out.

      Block users from taking control of the screen. 

      Welcome or unwelcome, you can keep guests from taking over the screen. Select the option to block everyone except the host (you) from screen sharing.

      Turn on automatic updates on your conferencing app. 

      By turning on automatic updates, you’ll get the latest security patches and enhancements for your video conferencing tool as soon as they become available.

      Get wise to phishing scams. 

      Some interlopers make it into meetings by impersonating others. Just as bad actors use phishing emails and texts to steal personal financial info, they’ll use them to steal company credentials as well. Our Phishing Scam Protection Guide can show you how to steer clear of these attacks.

      Use online protection software. 

      Comprehensive online protection software like ours can make for safer calls in several ways. For one, it protects you against malware attacks, such as if a bad actor tries to slip a sketchy download into your meeting. Further, it includes a password manager that creates and stores strong, unique passwords securely. This can help increase the security of your video conferencing account.

      Also, get wise to AI deepfakes on video calls

      This is a new one. AI deepfake technology continues to evolve, we find ourselves at the point where scammers can create AI imposters in real time.

      We’ve seen them use this technology in romance scams, where scammers take on entirely new looks and voices on video calls. And we’ve seen at least one group of scammers bilk a company out of $25 million with deepfaked executives on a call.[iii]

      Strange as it might sound, this kind of deepfake technology is possible today. And realizing that fact is the first step toward prevention. Next, that calls for extra scrutiny.

      Any time-sensitive info or sums of money are involved, get confirmation of the request. Place a phone call to the person after receiving the request to ensure it’s indeed legitimate. Better yet, meet the individual in person if possible. In all, contact them outside the email, message, or call that initially made the request to ensure you’re not dealing with an imposter.

      The safer video conference call

      With the right provider and right steps in place, video calls can be quite secure. Use a solution that offers end-to-end encryption, keep your app updated for the latest security measures, and lock down the app’s security settings. Also, recognize that AI has changed the way we look at just about everything online — including people on the other side of the screen. As we’ve seen, AI imposters on calls now fall into the realm of possibility. A costly one at that.

      [i] https://www.nytimes.com/2023/08/07/technology/ai-start-ups-competition.html

      [ii] https://www.pcmag.com/news/hackers-circulate-malware-by-breaking-into-microsoft-teams-meetings

      [iii] https://www.cnn.com/2024/02/04/asia/deepfake-cfo-scam-hong-kong-intl-hnk/index.html

       

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