Security Articles | Tom's Guide

a photo of a woman using the Flo period tracking app

How private is your personal data on period-tracking apps?

By Jane McGuire published 3 July 22

How private is your personal data on period-tracking apps? We ask a cybersecurity expert.

How to turn off automatic updates in Windows 10

By Robert Irvine published 1 July 22

Want to stop Windows 10 installing updates automatically? Here's how to turn off automatic updates until a more convenient time.

Chrome just got a big upgrade to make your life easier

By Malcolm McMillan published 1 July 22

Google has updated its Password Manager for Chrome and Android to address several concerns, including the ability to upload your own passwords manually.

Best VPN deals in July 2022

By Mo Harber-Lamond, Louis Ramirez published 1 July 22

VPN You want VPN deals? We've got you covered. Here you'll find the very best prices on all the top providers around.

When does an old smartphone become unsafe to use?

By Jesse Emspak, Anthony Spadafora published 1 July 22

Android and iOS devices have safe working lifespans of different lengths – here's what you need to know.

PureVPN review

By Mo Harber-Lamond published 1 July 22

VPN With plenty of servers and apps for tons of devices, PureVPN has the makings of a great VPN – but there are a couple of issues to be aware of.

The best gaming VPN in 2022

By Mo Harber-Lamond published 1 July 22

VPN A gaming VPN is the perfect tool for protecting yourself from DDoS attack from thirsty enemies and avoiding ISP throttling.

Scanning a QR code on a computer with a phone

Think twice before scanning this QR code — it could be a phishing scam

By Anthony Spadafora published 1 July 22

Cybercriminals are now using QR codes in their phishing attacks to help avoid detection.

Telegram: What it is and how to use it

By Jesus Diaz, Paul Wagenseil, Anthony Spadafora published 30 June 22

Here's how to install and use Telegram to get encrypted, self-destructing, non-intrusive messaging.

The best ad blockers in 2022

By John Corpuz published 30 June 22

The best ad blockers and privacy extensions zap irritating ads and help you opt out of intrusive marketing schemes.

MacBook Pro 13-inch (M2, 2022) sitting on a desk —MacBook Pro 13-inch (M2, 2022)

How to encrypt files on Mac

By David Crookes published 30 June 22

Learn how to encrypt files on Mac to ensure their contents cannot be easily accessed by others

Recruiter speaking with a job candidate on a video interview

Forget lying on your resume — now people are using deepfakes for video interviews

By Anthony Spadafora published 30 June 22

The FBI has warned that impostors are using stolen identities along with fake videos to apply for jobs at IT and software companies.

FCC commissioner demands Apple and Google remove TikTok app

By Malcolm McMillan published 29 June 22

FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr posted a letter on Twitter requesting that Apple and Google pull ByteDance-owned Tik Tok from their respective app stores by July 8

Is Windows Defender good enough for my new laptop?

By Paul Wagenseil, Anthony Spadafora published 29 June 22

Microsoft’s Windows Defender antivirus software now ships with all Windows 10 and Windows 11 laptops. But is it good enough?

Best cheap VPN being displayed on a laptop screen

The Best Cheap VPN in 2022

By Mo Harber-Lamond published 29 June 22

VPN Some cheap VPN services can now match up to the most expensive – but not every provider is worth it. Here are our top five choices.

The best Netflix VPN in 2022

By Mo Harber-Lamond published 29 June 22

VPN A Netflix VPN can get you your favorites when abroad, and extra content from home. We've tested them all – here are the top 5.

The Signal and Telegram apps grouped together on a smartphone screen.

Signal vs. Telegram: Which encrypted messaging app wins?

By Emily Long, Anthony Spadafora published 28 June 22

Signal and Telegram are both popular choices for encrypted messaging but which one is better for your needs?

Best DIY home security systems in 2022

By Mike Prospero published 28 June 22

The best self-installed, or DIY home security systems include motion and entry sensors, a loud siren and professional monitoring, all for a reasonable monthly fee.

Two children on a laptop with parents in the background

Popular child-tracking apps are actually tracking parents — how to stay safe

By Anthony Spadafora published 28 June 22

Downloading these popular child-tracking apps from the Play Store could put you and your child’s privacy and security at risk.

A grid of streaming service apps (Sling, Prime Video, Paramount Plus, Peacock, Netflix, AMC Plus, HBO Max, Pluto TV, Apple TV) open on a phone

6 reasons to use a VPN when streaming

By Mo Harber-Lamond published 28 June 22

vpn Using a VPN when streaming has become hugely popular, but there's more to them than just watching more TV and movies.

Scout Alarm Small Pack Alarm System door sensor

Scout Alarm Small Pack Alarm System review

By Richard Baguley published 27 June 22

The Scout Alarm system is well priced and easy to install yourself, but it is missing some components.

Best home security cameras in 2022: Top wireless, indoor and outdoor models

By Mike Prospero published 27 June 22

Here are the best home security cameras that allow you to watch the inside and outside of your home from anywhere.

What to do if your Facebook account Is hacked

By Sarah Brown, Anthony Spadafora published 27 June 22

Having your Facebook account hijacked can be terrifying but you can get it back by following these steps.

This fake copyright scam is infecting PCs with ransomware — what to know

By Anthony Spadafora published 27 June 22

Cybercriminals are using copyright violation notices sent via email to infect unsuspecting users with the LockBit ransomware.

Italian spyware used to hack into iPhones and Android phones — are you at risk?

By Sanjana Prakash published 24 June 22

Google has claimed that an Italian based firm’s spyware tools were used to hack into Android and Apple phones in Italy and Kazakhstan.

Security flaws in smart Jacuzzis could get owners in hot water

By Anthony Spadafora published 24 June 22

A security issue in Jacuzzi’s SmartTub software exposed the names and email addresses of smart hot tub owners online.

The best internet security suites in 2022

By Paul Wagenseil, Anthony Spadafora published 23 June 22

The best internet security suites stop malware, manage your passwords, secure your connections and protect you from identity theft.

NordVPN's bundle deal offers tons of extras – but do you really need them?

By Mo Harber-Lamond published 23 June 22

vpn Nord's Complete plan offers NordVPN along with NordPass and NordLocker storage. It's incredible value – if you need the extras.

The best UAE VPN working in Dubai 2022