The VPN does one thing primarily and does it well. The main trick a VPN does when it’s on is to hide (or “mask”) your active IP address by assigning you a different one. On top of that, it takes your online connection from the network you’re on (whether at home or on public Wi-Fi) and reroutes your activity through a secure server and network.
When you and your friend in another city search for the exact same thing on Google, you very likely get different results. Your Instagram feed probably looks nothing like your friend’s either, despite both of you following many of the same accounts and sharing similar interests. If you ask an AI chatbot a question, you’ll…
AI is everywhere. Even if you’re not logging into ChatGPT every day, everything you do on the internet is touched by AI. That may look like reading content written by an LLM, asking for help from an AI customer service representative, or scrolling through a social media platform with an algorithm that is heavily curated…
You found it. The perfect charming A-frame tucked into the mountains, wood-burning fireplace, panoramic windows, and a hot tub perched on the redwood deck. You booked it in about 30 seconds flat. What you probably didn’t think about in those 30 seconds: the Wi-Fi password is taped to the fridge, the network is named after…
You don’t have to click a malicious link to become a target. Sometimes, all it takes is posting online. Most people think of hacking as a technical crime, like someone breaking through firewalls, deploying malware, or cracking passwords. But a growing number of cyberattacks begin long before any of that, with a criminal quietly studying…
There are plenty of resources available to consumers to report crimes, scams, and identity theft. However, not everyone has a team or resources in place to help them fight back and reclaim their identity. That’s where the Identity Theft Resource Center is different.
One of the more frightening types of fraud is when a cybercriminal impersonates you—typically online—using your name, account information, and other personally identifiable information (PII) for financial gain. That’s the essence of identity theft, and it’s frightening just to think about, isn’t it?
Browsing is completely harmless, right? That is, until your browsing history reveals all of your private information to a stranger. That’s why you need to make a habit of regularly deleting your search history. Online safety consists of many practices, and good browser hygiene is one of them. To maintain your online security, you should…
Free WiFi is everywhere, but not all connections are created equal. Whether you’re a digital nomad, remote worker, or just trying to save on data, understanding the security trade-offs of different WiFi options can protect you from identity theft, data breaches, and worse. This guide ranks free WiFi sources from safest to riskiest, so you…
Whether you call it a bug out bag, a survival kit, or an emergency go-bag, the idea is simple: be ready when life suddenly stops cooperating. Accidents and disasters happen, which makes, as humans, feel anxious. Nothing freaks us out more than realizing how little control we ultimately have over the natural world, human-made critical…
American consumers have adapted quickly to contactless payment options, especially as apps like Google Wallet and Apple Pay became accessible in the mid-2000s. Recent polls show that half of Americans use tap-to-pay technology, which is great for convenience but not necessarily for security. The Better Business Bureau issued a warning to consumers: If you use…
Let’s say you’re scrolling on social media and you see an ad for a product you would love to have. Maybe it’s a sweater or a pair of shoes, perhaps a household item, or even something you need for work. The item itself looks great, but when you take a look at that price, it’s…
Digital exhaust is data on the Internet about you. This information is generated through a combination of data you create and data that others create about you. These data are exploitable, meaning they can be used by third parties to identify, target, and track you. The term “digital exhaust” started as a simple comparison: just…
Ever feel like your personal information is being exploited without your consent? Privacy Crisis is here to help you fight back. Written by Chris Parker, CEO of WhatIsMyIPAddress.com, Privacy Crisis can help you improve your privacy. It pulls back the curtain on how scammers, stalkers, greedy corporations, and political propagandists use your data against you, and shows precisely how to stop them – all without disconnecting from modern life or living like a hermit.
It’s easier than ever to quickly pay friends, family members, acquaintances, and strangers, thanks to apps like Venmo, Cash App, Zelle, and PayPal, among others. These apps work hard to educate their consumers on how to avoid scams, but what about the privacy risks that they don’t tell users about? The default settings on many…
Cyber attacks are no longer just about quick data grabs or nuisance hacks. Some threats are patient, calculated, and quietly destructive. These attacks are known as Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs). Unlike ordinary cybercriminals who hit fast and disappear, APT attackers infiltrate networks slowly, study their targets, and stay hidden for months or even years. Their…
In 2014, researchers at the University of Michigan demonstrated they could hijack 100 traffic lights using ordinary laptops. They exploited unsecured wireless networks and default passwords in a system deployed across 40 U.S. states. The incident revealed something most urban residents never consider. The infrastructure managing daily commutes, emergency services, and utilities operates on networks…
Hackers are getting more sophisticated every day, and traditional cybersecurity tools—the ones that rely on known threat signatures and fixed rules—are struggling to keep up. That’s where machine learning (ML) comes in. Machine learning isn’t just a buzzword. It’s a game-changer for cyber defense, capable of spotting threats that slip past conventional security measures. Whether…
Apple’s recent iOS updates included several features that share your personal data by default or raise concerns from privacy advocates. These privacy-invading settings may quietly collect information about your messages, photos, location, and app usage. If you’re wondering what you should do, the answer is easy: Simply turn them all off. Here’s exactly how to…
You’re sitting in a cafe with your phone on the table as you work on your laptop, and before you can blink, your phone is gone. Someone swiped it right from the table while you weren’t paying attention. Or, you’re on vacation, standing on a train platform in London. You’re looking up directions on your…
Black Friday scams are headed your way. Here’s the important thing to keep in mind: it’s not the different scams you need to worry about during Black Friday season; it’s also the different methods that scammers use to engage you. Here’s how they do that.
From the moment your baby is born, their personal information can be vulnerable to hackers and cybercriminals. Every photo, social media post, and digital record a baby is included in combines to create their digital footprint. New parents may find that sleep schedules and diaper changes take up most of their daily routine. But off-…
From your medical history to your social security number and insurance details, your medical records contain sensitive and confidential data. Unfortunately, that data makes healthcare organizations prime targets for cybercriminals. Bad actors look for vulnerabilities in healthcare cybersecurity to exploit, and they may infiltrate a healthcare system to cause data breaches, steal identities, and launch…
Secure coding is the practice of writing software that resists security attacks from the ground up. This proactive approach prevents common vulnerabilities like SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), and buffer overflows before they reach production. Key benefits include reduced security risks, lower remediation costs, enhanced user trust, and regulatory compliance. What Is Secure Coding? Secure…
During the 2025 Super Bowl, Meta recruited some big names to promote their new Ray-Ban Metas: Movie superstars Chris Pratt and Chris Hemsworth, plus reality TV icon Kris Jenner. Celebrities and influencers alike are promoting Augmented Reality (AR) devices like the Ray-Ban Metas, as these devices promise exciting features like live AI-enabled translation and video…
From cryptocurrency transactions to secure supply chain tracking, blockchain technology has evolved far beyond its early days as the backbone of bitcoin. However, its most intriguing potential lies in the personal privacy protections it can offer everyday Internet users. Cyber threats seem to increase daily and lurk in every corner of our online lives. Personal…
What Is AI Privacy Protection and Why Should You Care? Online privacy is under siege, and the threats aren’t slowing down. Every click, login, and search leaves a trail that can be tracked, sold, or stolen. Traditional privacy tools like VPNs and cookie blockers still help, but they were built for a simpler internet. Today’s…
Crossing the U.S. border with a phone or laptop isn’t as simple as packing your bag and showing your passport. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers have the authority to search your devices—and they don’t always need a warrant to do it. That means your private messages, photos, or even work files could be subject…
Are VPNs Legal? The Global Legal Status Overview The short answer: yes—VPNs are legal in most places. If you’re in the U.S., Canada, the UK, or most of Europe, you can use one without worrying about breaking the law. VPNs actually started as a pretty boring business tool, helping employees log in safely from home….
The Internet seemingly provides endless exploration for people across the globe. However, millions of people are blocked by national digital walls that limit how they can access and utilize online spaces. For example, people in North Korea, Russia, and China don’t have access to the same information as everyday Internet users in Europe or the…
Remember when drones were just cool gadgets that hobbyists flew around parks? Those days are long gone. Today, drones are everywhere—from FBI surveillance aircraft to helpful “poop drones” inspecting sewers beneath your feet. And if you missed the news about mysterious drone swarms buzzing over New Jersey military bases recently, well, let’s just say it…
Technology makes our lives increasingly easier, and every imaginable task becomes more efficient. In recent years, tech tools have even helped to connect and streamline smart devices in our homes and offices. The Internet of Things is one such tool quietly becoming an integral part of modern life. From voice assistants and smart thermostats to…
AI in Security: Revolutionizing Threat Detection Picture this: somewhere on the planet, a cyberattack happens every 39 seconds. That’s over 2,200 attacks a day—targeting everything from your neighborhood coffee shop’s POS system to government defense infrastructure. Traditional security tools? Think flashlight at a rave—technically useful, but wildly outmatched by the noise, speed, and unpredictability around…
It’s frustrating, but it’s true: Cyber criminals routinely target workplaces, especially small businesses. Online attackers have learned through trial-and-error that breaking through a company’s security, whether through hacking or social engineering, can lead to a pretty big windfall. IT directors, CTOs, and other security professionals are responsible for maintaining internet and data security within their…
The Remote Work Security Revolution: Why Your Home Office Is Under Attack That cozy home office setup? It’s become the new front line of a cybersecurity war most people don’t even realize they’re fighting. While millions celebrated ditching the daily commute, cybercriminals quietly exploited the largest expansion of attack surface in corporate history. With WebEx,…
Once an engineering fantasy, smart cities have emerged worldwide as efficient ways to enhance urban living. The future is now. Although smart cities can offer residents an optimal quality of life, they also raise extreme concerns about privacy rights. When every aspect of city management is connected, and surveillance systems using AI-powered tools and facial…
People who use VPNs want to ensure their VPN is working when they connect online. Because if, for some reason, the hoped-for secure connection isn’t there, the user risks revealing their online location and browsing habits to whoever might be watching at any moment.
A password manager account can help common password problems disappear quickly and easily. Better still, it can do more than that. While a password manager securely and conveniently stores, protects, and remembers your passwords, it can also digitally safely store important documents, account numbers, personal medical files, and more.
If you’ve ever been a victim of a cyberattack, you may have experienced overwhelming emotions and adverse psychological impact. You are not alone. Behind every nefarious cyber scheme, there’s a human element that preys on victims’ emotions. Cybercriminals are driven by their own psyches and often exploit human nature to achieve their goals. Through psychological…
If you run a small business, cyberattacks are the last thing you might anticipate. You may have cybersecurity protocols in place that you assume will protect you from online scams and malevolent actors. However, from phishing scams to ransomware, criminals often target small businesses. Lured by the potential of easy access to valuable data, cybercriminals…
As our smartphones become the hub for everything from banking to personal communication, keeping them secure has never been more important. These devices hold a goldmine of sensitive data—and that makes them a prime target for cybercriminals. One emerging technology promising stronger protection is the embedded SIM card, or eSIM. Unlike traditional SIM cards, eSIMs…
As technology continues to make rapid and significant advances, the crucial need for robust cybersecurity increases as well. Cybercrime affects everyday people, businesses, and governments around the world. From stolen data and ransomware to insider threats and phishing schemes, the risks are constantly evolving. The evolution of digital forensics in cybersecurity has bolstered protective measures…
Advances in technology have made our personal and professional lives easier. However, the more technology is integrated into every facet of our daily lives, the more we rely on it. For example, most businesses need a secure and visible online presence to remain viable, and a digital supply chain is vital to organizational success. Nevertheless,…
From catfishing to email phishing scams to AI deepfakes to ransomware cyberattacks, at times it may feel as though malevolent hackers are lurking in every corner of our online lives, just waiting to attack. Although collectively, we have built-in cybersecurity measures on our laptops, smartphones, and other smart devices, anybody can fall victim to an…
Your name, address, email, phone number—and sometimes even your family connections—can be floating around online without your consent. And once it’s out there, it can fuel everything from spam and scam calls to identity theft. That’s where personal data monitoring and removal tools come in. These tools can automate the scrubbing of your personal info…
If you’ve ever felt like your smart devices are “spying” on you and silently collecting your personal data to feed the almighty algorithm or control your actions, you’re not alone. Thankfully though, our smartphones and television sets aren’t nefarious spies, gathering information to use against us. Nevertheless, AI surveillance through video cameras used by governments,…
You’ve probably heard the buzz around blockchain, maybe in the context of Bitcoin, NFTs, or the latest crypto craze. But beyond the hype, blockchain is a powerful technology that’s changing the way we think about digital security. At its core, it’s a new kind of recordkeeping system because it’s decentralized, incredibly difficult to tamper with,…
As technology continues to advance and have practical implications in every facet of our lives, it feels like we’re watching the most fantastical science fiction imaginings of “the future” come to fruition. For example, our home appliances and devices are interconnected in ways that seemed impossible even a decade ago. From smart thermostats and fridges…
3D printing is transforming the way we design, manufacture, and innovate, but it’s also opening a massive hole in the fence of intellectual property protection. At the heart of the problem is the digital nature of 3D printing: it runs on files that are easy to create, easy to copy, and incredibly hard to protect….
It’s hard to avoid using the Internet on a daily, if not hourly, basis. From banking to online shopping, our activities are part of a hyperconnected world. Thus, proactively protecting your personal data online is no longer optional — it’s essential. Every seemingly innocuous click you make online can leave behind digital breadcrumbs that data…
Cryptocurrency scams reached unprecedented levels in 2024, and the importance of protecting yourself from these internet scams continues to rise. In 2024 alone, Americans lost $9.3 billion to crypto fraud—a staggering 66% increase since 2023. Digital currencies are gaining mainstream popularity, which means there are far more potential scam victims than there were just a…
Less than 30 years ago, biometric security seemed like something out of science fiction—reserved for futuristic thriller films like The Bourne Identity or Mission: Impossible. The idea of using fingerprints, facial recognition, or retinal scans for everyday identity verification felt like a distant, improbable dream. Today, biometrics are everywhere. Governments, financial institutions, and tech companies…
Professionally and personally, most of us spend a lot of our time online. We use our smartphones and our personal computers for everything from work to social connections to our primary source for entertainment and news, the Internet is unavoidable. Even our grandparents or parents who lack tech savvy religiously use email or have learned…
Most of us rely on the Internet daily for work, social media, bill payments, and more. Nevertheless, digital privacy is vital to us all. Risks to the personal data we share online are numerous, and even the stoutest cybersecurity measures can’t eliminate them all. Federal and state laws exist that help to protect us against…
Cloud computing and content delivery services often work behind the scenes to make your online life easier and more secure. For businesses, these tools can prove to be vital keys for seamless productivity. Nevertheless, when they don’t function properly or block organizations from accessing their services, setbacks and business losses can abound. If your business…
Wouldn’t it be great if we didn’t have to worry about the security of our data online? As soon as you start to learn about how many threats there are to your personal data and safety on the internet (especially with smartphones!), the days of worry-free scrolling and clicking disappear. The unfortunate reality is that…
In today’s world, data is currency. Companies collect information about you so they can advertise products and services, train and improve their products, and, in some cases, sell your data to the highest bidder. But when does it go too far? At what point are you allowed to say “enough,” and ask for your data…
Have you used artificial intelligence today? You most likely have, whether you realized it or not. AI-powered tools, platforms, and technologies have become so common that you can’t escape it even if you tried—unless you go seriously off-grid and take up residence in a forest somewhere. If you’ve never stopped to think about the effects…
Imagine having a high-tech twin—not the evil kind from sci-fi movies, but a super-smart digital version of a machine, building, or even a human body. That’s the magic of digital twins: they’re virtual models that mirror real-world objects and processes in real time, powered by sensors, data, and the ever-growing web of the Internet of…
Most of us desire long-lasting relationships and romantic love. Yet, our full schedules and cemented routines may leave little room for testing the dating pool and meeting new people. Thankfully, social media and online dating apps and platforms allow us to begin romances without leaving the confines of our homes. There are many stories of…
By now, you’ve likely heard about multi-factor authentication (MFA). You’re probably using it for most of your sensitive accounts. All the cybersecurity blogs you read (including this one) told you that you should be good and protected now. But advances in cyber protection don’t stay “advances” for long. Hackers always catch up, it’s just a…
Digital privacy has been an important part of online security since we first created the internet. Today, more and more parts of our lives are interconnected with online activity, and concerned citizens are taking action to protect their digital footprint. Whenever we go online, we are creating a data trail. Sometimes, these trails are inconsequential—does…
You get an email with a password reset link for your Amazon account. You didn’t request it, so you “safely ignore it” as the Amazon email states. Then, a few days later, you get an email asking to confirm your email address for a new account on Robinhood, a stock market e-trading app. Not long…
Every time you log in to social media, shop online, or check your email, you’re potentially exposing your personal information to cybercriminals. This isn’t paranoia—it’s reality. The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) received a record-breaking 880,000+ complaints in 2023, with victims reporting losses exceeding $14,000 on average. These numbers translate to a staggering $12.5…
Online scams can target anyone and come from anywhere, but organized scams are particularly insidious. Organized scammers are relentless, daily targeting millions of social media and email accounts through phishing and other cyberattack techniques. The chances are that you or someone you love has been targeted by a group of scammers before. The fraudsters who…
Protecting yourself from online threats is a big job. In an era of increasing digital surveillance and cyber threats, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have become a go-to tool for protecting online privacy and security. Sometimes, VPN users will even call their preferred VPN “unhackable.” But how accurate is that label? VPNs can certainly increase your…
One of the many responsibilities of the Federal Trade Commission is to provide guidance to consumers about scams and hoaxes, including those perpetrated online. Lately, the FTC has been warning consumers about health insurance scams, which can lead to massive financial losses, inconvenience, and identity theft. To protect yourself from these scams, it is so…
Most Americans spend a lot of time online. The internet is where we get basic information, do much of our professional work, connect with friends, meet new people, and shop. The frequency with which we use the internet can create a false sense of security. After all, if we’re online all day, every day, and…
The lists of “the best VPNs” are pretty different, confusing everyday consumers looking for guidance. So, at WhatIsMyIPAddress.com we decided to help out. We visited the leading reviewers’ websites, studied their results, and created a composite of the top choices. Using our own formula, we found out which VPNs showed up the most on those lists and created a smarter, perhaps more accurate list of the true best VPNs. We call it VPN TruRank™.
The main idea is this: A passkey can replace your password if you want it to. A passkey will offer a way to open your accounts without typing in a password. That is the essence of it. If you’ve used a thumbprint or your face on a computer or phone to open your account, you already have a taste of the technology.
Now, you can find the best VPNs at VPN TruRank, a new list compiled by WhatIsMyIPAddress.com “With the hundreds of VPNs out there, we want to help you save time, your sanity and some of your money if you’re looking for a VPN. That’s why we created VPN TruRank” — Chris Parker, President and CEO of WhatIsMyIPAddress.com…
VPNs are an essential resource for keeping your data secure and improving your privacy online. However, there is a lot to learn about these important tools. They have great benefits, but not all VPN providers are the same. Depending on how you want to use your VPN, the best option for you might not be…
You get the feeling that Mullvad VPN is truly anti-data collection and pro-privacy the second you visit their website. It has a grass roots, almost old-fashioned “protest banner” look about it, announcing there’s a battle for internet freedom.
In today’s digital landscape, protecting your online privacy is more important than ever. With cyber threats, data tracking, and geo-restrictions becoming common concerns, VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) have emerged as a go-to solution for securing internet activity. But while most users opt for VPN apps on their individual devices, there’s a far more efficient and…
As this 2024 recap of the top data breaches of 2024 reveals, our online safety isn’t in our hands. Businesses and organizations you know and have an account or relationship with and those you’ve never heard of can suffer a data breach and put your personal information and privacy at risk.
People concerned about internet privacy are starting to investigate virtual private networks and exploring PureVPN. PureVPN provides pure protection online by hiding your actual IP address and encrypting all your online traffic, which is what 99% of internet users and privacy seekers want.
Using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) when you’re online is still very wise and important and that’s especially true if you’re sending private, sensitive emails or shopping online from somewhere other than home.
Windscribe VPN provides the ultimate privacy, security, and simplicity with an easy-to-use website interface.
What Does Pump and Dump Mean? Pump and dump schemes are a deceptive form of investment fraud that have found new life in the digital age. But what is a pump-and-dump scam, exactly? At its core, a pump-and-dump scheme involves artificially inflating the price of a stock (often a penny stock) through false or misleading…
Have you ever deleted data from your search history or trashed files from your computer and wondered if traces of this information still exist somewhere? Unfortunately, traces of data often go unnoticed, and someone with the right tools can recover your deleted files. However, the good news is that you can take steps to permanently…
Residential proxy services offer unique advantages for individuals and businesses needing to access the internet anonymously and securely. While proxy services generally enable users to mask their IP addresses, residential proxies stand out because they use IPs assigned to real residential locations, making them appear as legitimate, local traffic. This article explores the various value…
Several VPN reviewers give Proton VPN the highest marks available based on this combination of factors: A fantastic free version, advanced privacy tools, and their demonstrated commitment to privacy; their software is friendly and easy, and it’s clocked at a high speed.
One of the primary reasons people use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is to hide or disguise their true IP address while they’re online. There are several reasons why people may want to hide their IP address, but the fact remains that this is the central job of a VPN. By using a VPN, a…
It is deeply unsettling to know that people can find out so much about you from a simple Google search of your name. Even people with common names can be found online if the person searching knows a couple of details, like the city where you live or where you went to school. It may…
IP Vanish is ideal for those who spend a lot of time online streaming or gaming and don’t want their Internet Service Provider or a platform to track them. This well-regarded VPN is recognized for providing excellent speeds and having an impressive global reach.
Our digital activity spills into almost every aspect of daily life. We click on our weather apps to choose what to wear, we check our email as we leave the house for work, and social media scrolls fill our moments of boredom. Most of us barely give a second thought to the digital footprint our…
CyberGhost VPN Delivers Complete Privacy When You’re Online with Any Internet Connection Three unique things you need to know about CyberGhost VPN: Quick overview: CyberGhost VPN will surely keep your internet activity hidden from anyone watching. This includes your ISP, hackers, advertisers, and the government. CyberGhost VPN encrypts your online traffic and hides your actual…
Criminals may sometimes work diligently to steal money, but other times, they just want to take the easy route. One way they do that is to open credit accounts in the name of an unsuspecting, easy victim. If you take steps to freeze your credit, they’ll have to move on to another victim.
Have you ever posted something online that you later regretted? Maybe an embarrassing photo from college or an ill-advised tweet? In today’s digital age, our online past can haunt us for years to come. But what if you could make that information disappear with the click of a button? This idea is at the heart…
With the releases of macOS Ventura and iOS 16 in 2022, Apple rolled out a new feature called lockdown mode. It’s an excellent additional layer of protection, however balancing security with usability is something Apple users are going to have to evaluate. Some people may find it works well while others are frustrated with the…
The Private Internet ACCESS VPN will deliver the security, performance, and online access most users want. Behind the scenes, PIA works hard to protect its infrastructure from outsiders, which protects your online experience.
ExpressVPN has long had the reputation of being one of the best, fastest, and most secure VPNs available. Three unique things you need to know about ExpressVPN: Quick overview: There is much to love about ExpressVPN, and there is probably one thing not to like: the comparatively higher monthly cost at any subscription level. The…
For most internet users, SurfShark VPN delivers the best levels of security, privacy, and internet access. It passes all the security testing and protects you whenever and wherever you are online with Surfshark protection running.
Doxxing (named for documents, or “dox”) is a term for the public release of someone’s private information. Imagine this: Someone decides to take your private stuff – could be anything from your home address to your embarrassing holiday beach photos – and scatter it all over the internet. That’s doxxing. It’s like someone rifling through…
NordVPN has something for everyone, whether your top concern is privacy, security, or greater access to websites from any geographic region.
With such a vast amount of information and data stored on our iPhones, it is more important than ever to take extra steps to secure our data and online activity. One of the best ways for iPhone users to protect their personal data is to use a Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN creates a…
In a world where we increasingly depend on our digital lives for personal and professional activity, threats to our cybersecurity lurk around every online corner. We can use our smartphones for almost everything we need online, but we need to utilize cyber protections to keep ourselves safe. Cybersecurity has become a paramount concern for everyone…
In a world where your digital footprint can be as significant as your real-world impact, the power of Google Maps is undeniable. Introduced in 2007, Google Maps Street View offers a ground-level perspective of countless urban and rural areas globally. This service, brought to life through vehicles and photographers donning cameras on backpacks, sparked debates…
In the online world, a digital footprint is the trail and amount of data a person leaves behind on the internet which identifies you. Here are 7 ways to reduce your online exposure.
Cars are smarter than ever before. Cars have had computers since 1968, but today, there are thousands of chips, sensors, and cameras in every car that collect and interpret data. Is your car actually compromising your privacy? Modern cars are equipped with numerous microprocessors and sensors that collect and interpret vast amounts of data, contributing…
Have you heard about the Operation Triangulation attacks that targeted iPhones from 2019-2023? According to Kaspersky, a somewhat controversial Russian cybersecurity software company, Operation Triangulation is a previously known hardware vulnerability in iPhones that was exploited through iMessage by sophisticated cybercriminals. Kaspersky itself was attacked through this incredibly sophisticated attack. Their researchers conducted extensive analysis to…
Social media can be a double-edged sword. Platforms like Facebook allow us to connect with friends and family, but can also expose our personal information. One aspect many don’t put much thought into is the visibility of their Facebook friends list. While it may seem harmless, a public friends list can open you up to…
Our phones go everywhere with us. Many of us treat our phones as an extension of ourselves. We use them for work, fun, social connections, information, and so much more. Whether you’re someone who prefers texting, scrolling social media, talking on the phone, listening to music, or simply having the ability to look up anything…
Google Search contains a metric ton of information, some of which may be your personal contact data you’d rather keep private from prying eyes. With hackers and doxxing being an unfortunate reality these days, it’s crucial to know how to banish sensitive info from search results. Luckily, Google now has a streamlined “Results About You”…
Protecting your personal information today requires a lot more effort than it used to! It seems like there are always new ways for scammers to access your information, including your passwords, log-in credentials, banking information, credit or debit card numbers, and even your Social Security number. Keeping stopping phone tracking is one of the many steps you…
You’re at an airport, and you need to email confidential, time-sensitive data to your boss. Suddenly, your VPN (Virtual Private Network) won’t allow you to connect to the airport’s Wi-Fi network. Your palms sweat, you feel ice coursing through your veins — you don’t want to get fired, but you can’t send these vital documents…
It seems like every day, our real lives get more intertwined with our digital lives. Availability disruptions in the apps and platforms we use can cause major interruptions to our daily lives. Among the most troubling digital threats is a Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attack. By flooding networks and servers with malicious traffic, DDoS attacks block…
The Nintendo Switch is one of the most popular gaming consoles in production, thanks to its unique hybridization of at-home and on-the-go gaming. Although most Switch owners have a primary focus on gaming, some users may want to have an additional layer of security and versatility that is best accomplished with a Virtual Private Network…
Did you know that all VPNs change your location, and many of them let you choose your location? VPNs hide your location by changing your IP address, and most of the time, you can choose where you want your VPN-provided IP address to be located. When your internet traffic exits a VPN server, it appears…
The chaotic sea of the Internet offers so much content and interactive opportunities, it can feel overwhelming. In order to stay afloat and retain the knowledge that we find within a click, many of us download and share files. Although there are multiple ways to download online files, torrenting has become one of the most…
Adults and kids alike enjoy hours submersed in the adventures of online gaming. You can network and connect with other players, let your imagination run wild, build your character, and fight bad guys — all from the comfort of your own couch. However, if you leave your personal information exposed, bad actors can target you…
Google is expanding its technological dominion with intriguing new services, and one of the most compelling recent additions is its VPN service, which aspires to rank among the best in the market. For those subscribing to the 2TB+ Google One plans, not only do you get extensive cloud storage and phone backup, but also an…
Our Android devices contain massive amounts of personal and sensitive data. Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is one of the best ways that an Android user can properly secure that data and shield online activity from prying eyes. A quality VPN generates an encrypted tunnel around your device’s traffic, hiding your true IP address…
With data breaches and privacy violations running rampant online, protecting your security is more crucial than ever. Unfortunately, hackers, internet providers, and even government agencies can monitor your browsing activity and steal sensitive information. Your best defense against these bad actors is to use a virtual private network (VPN). A VPN Hotspot Shield will encrypt all…
IPVanish is a well-established, US-based VPN service that has been providing fast, secure connections since 2012. Offering apps for all major platforms, IPVanish aims to provide a full-featured VPN solution for securing devices and data on the go. We reviewed IPVanish a while back, but let’s take a closer look at some of its most…
In the digital age where privacy feels like a luxury, the idea of your laptop’s webcam being hacked isn’t just paranoia, it’s a real possibility. With cybercriminals getting more creative by the day, it’s essential to know the signs that might indicate your laptop camera has been hacked and is under someone else’s control. Let’s…
Alexa, the intelligent, cloud-based AI home assistant, provides us with helpful answers and can, in theory, make our lives a bit easier. When past films like 2001: A Space Odyssey or, more recently, Ex Machina, shared visions of futuristic, intelligent AI, they often took a dark turn. Quietly, we might wonder about Alexa becoming malevolent,…
In recent years, news of major corporate data breaches and ransomware schemes seems to lurk around every Internet corner. In a world of multiple online threats, we could all use an extra layer of cybersecurity. Although there are numerous ways that we can protect our online presence and personal information, using a Virtual Private Network…
Email tracking software provides invaluable visibility into how your recipients engage with your emails. These data and insights can help you significantly refine and optimize your outreach campaigns for better results. Better emails lead to more sales. We’re going to review 10 leading email tracking tools for 2023 based on their key features, pricing options,…
“The single best thing someone can do to better protect their accounts is to choose and use a password manager,” explains Chris Parker, CEO of WhatIsMyIPAddress.com. “With that simple decision, you significantly improve your account security.”
In recent years, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have gained immense popularity as users seek to bolster their online privacy and security. While the advantages of VPNs are widely celebrated, it’s crucial to explore the other side of the coin. In this article, we’ll delve into nine disadvantages associated with using VPN services. 1. Reduced Internet…
Your IP address reveals a lot of information about you and your online activities. An IP address serves as a home address for your internet connection. It uniquely identifies the device that you are using to access the internet. Importantly, your IP address allows websites and services to locate and communicate with your devices. When…
Facebook is one of the most popular websites in the world. It can be a great place to connect with other people — but it’s also riddled with scams, hoaxes, and fraudulent schemes. One hoax in particular has started making the rounds again recently, and you should be aware of it so you don’t fall…
When you hear about cloning in relation to cyber hackers or online activity, you probably think of IP addresses and Internet connections. However, your MAC (Media Access Control) address can be cloned, too. You may find yourself in a coffee shop, with sweat dripping from your nervous brow. The public WiFi network name is showing…
In a world where hackers lurk around every corner and cyber criminals want to make you their prey, where can you turn? … If you read this line in the voice of a grave movie announcer, you’ve got the tone right — cyber crime can impact us all, and it can be downright scary. The…
Most of us Google ourselves every now and then to see what comes up. You’ll probably see your social media profiles, maybe a personal website if you have one, or other people who have the same name as you. Looking yourself up can be fun — until you notice one of those people search websites…
A person or an organization could (without you knowing it) see what websites you visit, deny you access to their website, create a profile of you based on your activity, find out where you live and even hack into your network. They can do it when your home and it can also happen when you’re at an airport, a hotel or coffeehouse.
How? They’re able to do it because they see and know your IP address.
That is where a VPN (Virtual Private Network) comes into play. It hides your IP address and from there it works like magic.
Personal information about you is probably publicly available online, right now. Sites known as data brokers gather up info about you and build a profile with your name, address, phone number, and other details. Sometimes they even have photos of you. Sounds like a major invasion of privacy, right? Technically, it’s legal for data brokers…
In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the detailed process of opting out from PropertyIQ.com and ensuring that your personal information is removed effectively. This is a website that shows information such as your home address, current residents, phone numbers, mortgage records including interest rate, lender, and information on foreclosures and preforeclosures. In…
How to easily remove your information and opt out of TruePeopleSearch TruePeopleSearch is a free people search website offering details such as names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses. If safeguarding your online privacy is a concern for you, removing your personal information from TruePeopleSearch might be a step you’d want to take. Here’s a…
When Ashley Madison, the dating website for cheaters, launched in 2002, it was seen as a fringe space for clandestine affairs. However, by 2015, the site claimed 31.5 million members and boasted international, high-profile recognition. Despite a questionable mission — to foster and facilitate infidelity — Ashley Madison was primed to “go public” and hoped…
FastPeopleSearch is a free people search website owned by PeopleFinders that allows users to search for personal information; this includes information such as names, addresses, phone numbers, and relatives. Sites like these are common forms of data brokers. If you are concerned about privacy, you may want to remove yourself from FastPeopleSearch. In this article,…
Unfortunately, global, national, and local humanitarian crises are mostly out of our control. A hurricane or a tornado hits and wipes out an entire town. A pandemic strikes worldwide and millions are left suffering. Often, this brings out the best in humanity — common people band together to help those in need. However, crises also…
In today’s digital age, protecting personal information has become increasingly important. With data breaches and privacy violations making headlines, it’s crucial for consumers to take matters into their own hands. This guide will help protect you from data collection on the internet by covering key areas such as masking your payments, IP address, device fingerprint…
If you’ve ever received a flood of spam emails for products you’ve never ordered, and websites you’ve never visited, chances are your personal data has been sold by a data broker. Data brokers are part of a legitimate industry, and often sell your general information to companies launching targeted marketing campaigns. However, their practices can…
Cyber criminals and spammers use email spoofing to trick email recipients into believing that they have received a message from someone they know or an account they trust. To commit an email spoofing attack, the attacker forges a fake email header. It displays a familiar (but fraudulent!) name to the recipient. Because most people take…
SQL injection is a mechanism that cyber attackers use to interfere with application queries to a database. Specifically, SQL injection exploits a security vulnerability and gives hackers access to data that they shouldn’t have access to. How SQL Injection Works To understand SQL injection (SQLi), you have to first understand code injection and SQL. “Code…
Anyone who uses the internet–in other words, everyone–needs to understand the concept of Personally Identifiable Information (PII) and the potential risks associated with its exposure or theft. PII refers to any information that can be used to identify an individual, whether on its own or when combined with other relevant data. With the increasing reliance…
The world of technology is full of tools to help protect your online security. At times, the plethora of tools available may seem overwhelming. However, whether you’re protecting your professional or personal online presence, understanding the privacy options you have is paramount. One option at your disposal is SOCKS5 proxy. It sounds super technical and…
Digital forensics is a subcategory of forensic science that looks at evidence found on computers, digital devices, internet networks, and any other digital platform. If forensics is the science of investigating a crime scene, think of digital forensics as the science of investigating a digital crime scene. When someone uses the internet or a digital…
You think it would be obvious or automatic that parents would be in control of what their own children are doing or seeing online. Sadly, that’s not the case. Not even close. It’s not even necessarily a battle between parents and the world of the internet. It’s a battle between parents and their children as well.
In today’s digital age, safeguarding personal information and privacy is a top priority for countless individuals. Responding to this need, Google has launched a search result removal tool. It provides users with a way to manage the online exposure of their sensitive data. When used alongside privacy services like those from consumer privacy companies, people…
In today’s digital age, our personal information is more readily available than ever. Most of us take actions every day that create a digital footprint, whether that is using social media, logging into apps and websites, or even just having a credit card or cell phone plan. Even though many people may not be aware…
Everyone should have the right to internet freedom. The online fields should be a place where people can communicate, share information, and express themselves freely without anyone trying to control or censor them. It’s all about exploring and discovering things without limitations. Sadly, that’s not the case everywhere. One of the places suffering from internet…
We all rely on email to communicate and stay connected with our friends, family, and colleagues. In fact, more than half of the world’s population actively uses email. But have you ever considered how private your emails really are? What is Email? When it comes to online privacy, many people tend to focus on things…
A few years back, the mega company Google got fed up with scammers and hackers stealing employee login credentials and gaining access to their corporate network. So they handed out security keys to every employee. Problem over.
The rise of social media has seen an increase in the popularity of quizzes. Many users spend countless hours answering questions on a variety of topics. While these quizzes can be fun and entertaining, they also come with significant risks that users should be aware of. In this article, we will examine the various dangers…
Like anything else, the Internet has its rewards and it has its inherent risks. You can make it fit perfectly into your lifestyle and activities, from arranging meetings and gym workouts; filling your calendar; reading and watching education videos; to attending virtual meetings.That’s how you develop an online profile.
Is there any service or product for which you’d have a lifetime subscription? Probably not. So, if a VPN provider is offering never-ending service for a one-time fee, you have to wonder what’s going on, even if the low price seems worth it.
If you simply want to hide you browser activity on you computer (from friends and family), there’s a feature called “incognito” mode. The word incognito means hiding your identity. Well, this isn’t actually that. This is hiding your website searches. Hiding the fact that you went to those sites.
How many extensions do you have installed on your Google Chrome browser? You know, those tiny icons that sit in the top right corner, next to the address bar? If you’re like most people, you may not know exactly how many extensions you have installed and active on your web browser. It’s probably more than…
If you browse online, you’ve probably come across websites that ask you about privacy statements and cookies. At times, online privacy statements are lengthy, convoluted texts of boring legal jargon. Yet, it seems like every app and every online purchase requires agreeing to them. We’ve all been guilty of scanning through and signing online privacy…
Social media has become a part of our everyday lives. And yet, we take for granted how much information is readily available on social networks. The focus is on friends or building follower counts but random people can sneak through the cracks and they may not have the best intentions. A quick search could get them…
Your aunt just got a hot tip from you about an amazing NFT investment opportunity and your best friend just got a sketchy link from you which she wasn’t sure she should open. Your social media has been hacked and you’re the last one to know. If this has happened to you, you are certainly…
If you’ve ever wanted to access location-blocked content with your PS5, you’ve probably noticed that you can’t use VPN apps on your PlayStation. While Sony discourages users from using VPNs by not making them available in the PlayStation store, there are still ways to use a VPN with your PlayStation console. This guide covers two…
The idea of using login passwords today is so common that it seems incredible that anyone would have had to invent it.
We’ve all been there. When bad break-ups go worse. Someone flies off the handle and decides to do something rash. This could be an ex-girlfriend throwing your clothes in the street, or a husband throwing his wife’s make-up in the toilet in a fit of rage. But thanks to the Internet this spiteful behavior can…
A VPN is a useful tool for keeping your internet activity more private. They were first developed for the corporate world but they’ve become essential for personal computer users who browse the web. The popularity of VPNs has brought up some misconceptions, though. Many Internet users seem to think that VPNs are the answer to…
Have you ever wondered if someone is spying on you through your iCloud account? That’s exactly what happened to Britney Spears when her father Jamie hired a security firm to set up a way to spy on her through iCloud. Because Jamie Spears had Britney’s Apple ID password, he was easily able to gain access…
The Internet would look vastly different without JavaScript. This programming language powers things like audio and video players, infinite scrolling, and chat boxes. It lets your favorite websites look the way they do. That all may sound innocent, but JavaScript has a dark side too. With the tracking features that JavaScript enables, sometimes it’s better…
You may have heard the expression there’s no such thing as a free lunch. Well, there’s no such thing as free social media either. A lot of people think of themselves as Facebook customers. But here’s the catch – if it’s free, you have to realize that you’re paying one way or another. The other…
It’s not illegal for ISPs to provide information to third parties. They are, in fact, able to collect data on which of their subscribers (identified by their IP addresses) visit certain sites or have shown interest in certain topics, and they do sell that to third parties.
If you’re worried about webcam spies or cyber hackers obtaining your most confidential information, your paranoia is well-founded. You know this is a serious issue when even Mark Zuckerberg himself put a piece of tape over the camera on his own computer: Let’s take a closer look: So why the growing concern about hackers and…
When you hear red team vs. blue team you might think of those old games of capture the flag. When you find out it’s related to cybersecurity you may think it’s a reference to The Matrix. Do you take the red pill or the blue pill? But in cybersecurity, these are the two approaches to…
Getting a password manager is a very wise thing to do. As you start to explore all its offerings (once you sign up for one!) you’ll know you made a smart move.
In a digital age where we live out our lives on the Internet, it’s inevitable photos of you will pop up online. You may be the one to publish these photos, but sometimes, someone else may use your likeness or image without your permission. When this happens, can you legally force a website owner to…
Your face is unique. On a planet with a population of 7.67 billion, no one else has the exact same facial characteristics as you. Which is why governments and various organizations are utilizing facial recognition technology to identify people. When cameras were invented, Native Americans were wary of devices that capture and log our facial…
Most of us couldn’t live without messaging apps. Whether we’re talking to family, friends, or colleagues, these apps keep us communicating no matter where we are in the world. As convenient as messaging apps are, they can also lead to privacy issues. Messages you think are private might be read by third parties, or the…
People can learn a lot about you from your social media profiles — perhaps more than you’d like. When you overshare on social media, cybercriminals can get a hold of your information, potential employers can see borderline inappropriate photos and comments, and your overall privacy is compromised. It’s never a bad time to go through…
Social media is a part of life. Given the state of the world, social media has become, for many, their main source of social interaction. Between Zoom meetings for work, watch parties to connect with friends, and countless conversations over social media posts, we can forget how many people may be watching. On social media,…
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Following the 2020 global pandemic, video conferencing has become a regular part of our lives. Even after the pandemic ends, video conferencing and video chatting will still be prevalent — especially in workplaces that have decided to stay fully or mostly remote. Unfortunately, the rise of video chatting did come with the rise of hacked…
These days, it seems like data breaches happen so frequently consumers can hardly keep up. Almost every week there are headlines about another company that’s been breached. What should you do if you have an account with one of these breached organizations, and your information has been exposed? When you hear about a data breach…
The Internet has grown massively since its start in 1983. As of October 2020, 59 percent of the world’s population were actively using the Internet — 4.66 billion people. With that much growth has come privacy and security concerns as well. With hackers preying on unsuspecting Internet users, and services saving your data and selling…
The average smartphone user is on their mobile device approximately 3.07 hours a day. According to a study by Whistle Out, you’ll likely end up spending almost 9 whole years on your phone. Yikes! Why does that matter for privacy? The more time you spend on your phone — checking your bank account, syncing social…
The Covid Crisis has shown us the sudden validity of needing to prepare for the worst case scenario. There may be something to be said for living off the grid. People with their own sources of electricity who exist off of social media have managed to maintain some sense of normalcy. It does beg the…
The browsing history on your computer holds a ton of information. Your search history shows all the things you don’t know that you quickly Google. It can reveal the things that worry you about your health, the law, or politics. Your browsing history can expose the things you look up at 3 am when you…
We are super reliant on our phones. We don’t just need them for catching up with friends or business calls. Some people run their entire lives from their phones. Mobile devices have become as important to our lives as computers. And yet, we don’t realize all the ways someone having our phone number can put…
Amazon has become a household name. But the significance of Amazon can vary from household to household. Some families love getting packages in two days or less, watching original series, and using Alexa to manage their household. Some see Amazon as a dark hydra of corrupt capitalism squeezing out small businesses, disenfranchising its own employees,…
Most of us have signed up for a website’s product or service, only to receive a deluge of spam emails afterward. This is annoying, and while there are several ways to declutter your inbox, one of the most effective strategies is creating a temporary email address. Temporary, or disposable email addresses take no time to…
Whenever you open a web browser and connect to the Internet, you take a security risk. The web is full of malicious cybercriminals. To protect your privacy and safeguard your device against attacks, you need a secure web browser. Google Chrome is the most popular web browser on the market—as of 2019, 2.6 billion Internet…
The T-Mobile hack proves the sad reality that until companies and agencies are extremely serious about combating the relentless assaults by hackers, there will always be another story about a significant data breach.
You may have heard of virtual machines before, but do you know what they’re capable of? In the last 15 years, large companies have started using virtual machines to simplify their IT infrastructure. But can a virtual machine be beneficial to you as an individual user? More importantly, how secure are virtual machines? Before diving…
Here’s the point about data breaches. If someone has a lot of general information about you and then has access to your passwords, that could mean other accounts will soon be compromised.
We are constantly plugged in. We are connected to the Internet via our computers, mobile devices, and even some of our appliances. The movement to seamlessly give you the same experience across all of your devices can also mean that there are prsonal secrets you could be sharing without knowing. Your cell phone is often…
So much of managing our privacy and cybersecurity involves not sharing secrets over the Internet. Some people love to overshare on social media. They can post all kinds of personal information or send emails with passwords or credit card numbers. But how can you safely share private information like this over the Internet? From Netflix…
If you haven’t been living under a rock for the past year, then you know what Zoom is. Chances are, you’ve used it yourself many times. And if you know about and use Zoom, then you probably also know about the major security issues Zoom had back in March and April 2020. The application became…
We’re not all IT (internet technology) types, but don’t tell that to VPN review sites! They make it hard to compare or choose a VPN. Turns out, with the VPN Simplifier from WhatIsMyIPAddress.com, how to choose a Virtual Private Network is a no-brainer.
If you don’t want a website or your internet provide to know what websites you visit, you have to “mask” your true IP address. Here’s how.
If everyone knew how incredibly versatile a VPN is at protecting us online, nobody would go online without one.
Your mobile phone…is it a life-changing invention or the end of all privacy? Our cell phones give us access to information right at our fingertips. There are apps to make our lives easier. We can control everything from locks on our doors to the lights in our homes. We can talk via text, email, video,…
You need to know how to clear browsing history on your computers and phones. Still, that’s not enough to keep your internet activities private.
Using a data breach check tool is the best way to find out if you have accounts that have been compromised.
There was huge hack of Twitter in Summer of 2020. with all kinds of surprises. Here’s what made it newsworthy: The mastermind of the attack was a 17-year-old from Florida. He didn’t act alone: He recruited for his attack 19- and 22-year old guys from overseas. The leader of the Twitter hack managed to achieve…
Use the Data Breach Check resource from WhatIsMyIPAddress.com Here’s a word of advice: Unless you’ve done a data breach check recently, you won’t know if the network attack hurt you or might one day. An email hack checker can quickly tell you whether your address has shown up in known breach datasets, so you can…
We look at that news differently. WhatIsMyIPAddress.com looks at how news of another network attack affects the customers of that attacked company. We wonder how it affects you (because perhaps you’re a customer of the company) and want you to know what you should do. There’s a reason for that: the “sensitive data” that was…
Sure, just about all our lives are online today. Fortunately there are a few internet privacy tips that can help you close the door on spying eyes.
The best VPNs for torrenting offer fast speeds to let you download torrent files without any issues. They also don’t keep logs, which grants you complete anonymity without worrying about copyright trolls or being blocked by your ISP.
There are a lot of things people can do online that aren’t legal. Downloading pirated movies, for example, is one of them. Many people have heard about VPNs, or virtual private networks. They know using a VPN can hide their IP address, masking a person’s actual location. And it works! If you’re in New York…
Anonymizer Anonymous Surfing is a computer software program that provides a method for privately browsing internet websites. Simply put, it means that you are able to use the Internet without being identified; or, in other words, it allows you to maintain internet anonymity. Internet anonymity means that you are not giving anyone the opportunity to…
Let’s be clear: There is no privacy on the Internet. There could always be someone watching where you go and what you do online. And if you think you don’t have anything to hide or are not important enough to be spied on, you may have to change your mind. In fact, for those who…
Why should you use a VPN, Because as great as the Internet is, it has many drawbacks that hit close to home. In other words, the quirks and downside of our online connections can affect us in real ways.You’re probably wondering if this is more hype than fact. It’s not an exaggeration. Let’s look at seven very real weak-points of the Internet.
The typical office worker spends an average of 45+ hours a week at work…or on work. And these days, with everything being networked and accessible, most of that time is spent working on the company computer. Of course, many companies today like providing laptops and even tablets to their employees so they can take their…
There are five English-speaking countries who agree help each other out when it comes to tracking down illegal information on the internet. It’s called the Five Eyes Alliance.
If you’ve looked at an iPod, iPhone, or other smartphones, if you’ve used the Firefox, Chrome, or Opera browsers, or if you’ve used Google in the past couple of years, you’ve probably seen something that points out your location. Indeed, Google has long been able to target local results to your searches based on where…
The anonymous Internet is not as scary as you think. What is being “anonymous” online? It doesn’t mean that you don’t have an identity online. For the everyday computer user, it simply means a few things: That you can go online to any website and you won’t be blocked because of your IP address. That…
What Is SmartDNS? With an array of global sites hiding behind the locked doors of geo-blocking, using a SmartDNS is the key to accessing that restricted content and essentially unblocking websites. Before delving into the world of SmartDNS use, however, it is beneficial to first educate yourself on what a SmartDNS really is, how it…
We normally associate the word “charities” and “causes” with children, cancer, poverty, animals, education, and even world peace. The word “privacy” doesn’t even come to mind. But believe it or not, there are organizations dedicated to protecting our freedom and right to privacy in this digital age and supporting them matters more to our way…
If your spouse, a relative, or a good friend are constantly talking about safety, cybercrime and being spied on, a new pair of socks or a toaster isn’t going to calm them down. Give them what they need—the gift of peace of mind and security. One of these privacy and security gift ideas might cheer…
Your browser is your gateway to the World Wide Web but it’s also how hackers, drive-by downloaders, and other malicious actors can get into your computer. Installing security-focused browser extensions that block pop-up advertisements and completely encrypt website traffic from being monitored or tracked will definitely increase your privacy—and may even speed up your browser….
Computers, smartphones and tablets are so ingrained in our everyday lives, it’s hard to imagine life without them. For younger people (18-29), technology has always been a part of their lives and they can’t imagine life without its conveniences. Older computer users have incorporated technology step by step as it became necessary to accomplish certain…
One of the most misunderstood computer terms—and services—may be the proxy. Most of us aren’t IT experts or computer geeks, so all we want to know is “What does it do for me?” So let’s try to answer that question as simply as we can. You may have even used a proxy, but just not…
GhostSurf is a computer software program that allows for anonymous surfing of the Internet. Like other software programs of this nature, Ghostsurf provides security for the private browsing of Internet websites. It also provides peace of mind. With Ghostsurf you get ideal Internet anonymity, which means that you have the ability to surf the web…
You won’t believe the passwords that some people STILL use. Microsoft has finally put its foot down—even though most people won’t even know it unless they start to create a dumb password. In May 2016, Microsoft started using a system that would reject password requests—when opening a new account or creating a new password—that had…
Please be aware that the use of proxy servers without the express permission from the owner of the proxy server may be illegal in some states and/or countries. Use them at your own risk. Use your favorite search engine and search for ‘proxy server list’. You’ll find many sites with lists of proxy servers, their…
Here’s a beginner’s guide to what’s being called the Internet “anonymizer.” If you surveyed most of your friends and associates and asked them what is personally important to them while using the Internet, they might use one of the following words: Speed Security Access Privacy Anonymity What do you think they would say is the…
Not too many computer users have heard of the terms “proxy” or “proxy server,” or understand what they mean or do. A proxy server is a website/server that acts as a middleman for you to get on the Internet. When you use a proxy server, you’re not contacting a website directly. Your information runs through…
If you find yourself reading this article for any reason other than having had your laptop stolen, do yourself a huge favor and read this article about preventative steps for keeping your laptop (and the data on it) safe from theft. It’s always good to take steps that can help you avoid stress and anxiety….
The Feds can peer into your computer and life. What do hackers, Internet thieves, terrorist groups, and other cybercriminals have in common? They don’t play by the rules. They will hack, attack, mislead, and spread viruses and take over computers to do their dastardly deeds, without concern for the law or their victims. Internet crime…
This article shows you three different methods/services that could help you stay anonymous or untraceable online. The three services are VPNs, proxies and Tor.
Every time you access the Internet, you get a unique identifier assigned to you known as an IP address. Your IP address can reveal a fair bit of information about you, including your location. Some websites can use it to block you from accessing their content. If you’re surfing the web from home, using an…
Most people want two things when they go online: security and anonymity. If you do a little “Googling” on those subjects, you’ll easily come across the use of proxy servers as a quick, easy and sometimes even free solution to get both. A proxy will promise to hide your IP address while you’re surfing the…
Better question: Why would you use a proxy at all? The topic of proxies can get confusing fast, making it hard to figure out what they are, what they do and why anyone would use one. Just so you know, using a proxy revolves around you taking steps on your computer to help you either:…
An open proxy is a proxy server that will accept client connections from any IP address and make connections to any Internet resource. Abuse of open proxies is currently implicated in a significant portion of e-mail spam delivery. Spammers frequently install open proxies on unwitting end-users’ Microsoft Windows computers by means of computer viruses designed…
Move Over, Stale Cookies. There Are Fresher Technologies on Their Way That Keep Track of People Online Personal computers really took off somewhere in the 1980s. But it was about 20 years ago, when the Internet came on the scene, that another technology was introduced: the computer “cookie.” It was designed by a programmer at…
Netflix has become a household name for the digital natives and nomads of today because there are few creature comforts — like a library of your favorite movies and TV shows – that you can bring with you and have access to anywhere in the world with a click of a mouse. If you go…
The advances in technology over the decades are phenomenal. Consider this: The mobile phone/smartphone in your pocket has more computing power than NASA used to go to the moon in the 1960s—the Apollo Guidance Computer (AGC) had approximately 64Kb of memory and operated at 0.043Mhz. Arguably, you’re also probably more attached to it than some…
Your access to the Internet is determined by many factors. Your school or your local library can put limits on websites you can see. However, beyond that, most of us are used to accessing pretty much what we want on the Internet. Some households even put Internet filters on their networks, voluntarily, to prevent access…
Most of us don’t think too much about being anonymous… in our every day lives and even when we are online. That’s because over the years, especially in the U.S., people have been conditioned to provide some personal information to companies that we do business. Mail comes to our house, with our name and address…
Sometimes you just need a little privacy online. You wouldn’t probably admit to engaging in some online activity that you don’t want others to see, especially if they use the same computer you do, after you…or if you share a computer. That list of others includes your spouse or significant other, your children, your boss,…
Identity theft is everywhere. It seems like you can’t turn on the news without at least one story about a corporate data breach, rich investors getting defrauded, or an old person getting scammed. Despite being played for laughs in Hollywood, identity theft is a very real problem. Sometimes, however, the thieves go to extraordinary lengths…
In the summer of 2014, a report came out that was not great news for government agencies, but was interesting news for everyone else—especially those of us who are interested in online privacy. Here’s the news the law enforcement agencies heard from a German technology company that provides services to government agencies: Law enforcement’s spying…
An adult website just got hacked. Customers are nervous, regretful. There’s a good chance that some husbands and wives, boyfriends and girlfriends, soccer moms, up-and-coming young executives and politicians (and millions more) are holding their breath, hoping for the best, changing their ways and may even be headed to church soon. That’s because an adult-oriented…
Quite honestly, most experts will tell you to avoid free VPNs. They have their reasons, but that doesn’t mean the aren’t several worth checking out.
If you’re concerned about Internet safety, and especially unsecured wireless networks, you’re not alone. More and more people want to feel safer when they go online. They don’t want anyone monitoring their Internet activity or stealing their private information. Why would you use a proxy at all? The topic of proxies can get confusing fast,…
It seems innocent enough, even fun and informative, but the millions of DNA test results people get to discover their lineage are suddenly making the news for unforeseen reasons. For example, aiding the FBI in tracking down killers. A year ago (2018) it was the so-called “Golden State Killer.” Recently it was a man who…
Is the threat of malware real? The answer is definitely yes. Fortunately for most of us, the most serious malware attacks are going after large targets these days, such as government agencies and large international corporations. For example, in late November 2014, Sony Corporation was the victim of a severe and successful hacking effort by…
It wasn’t an April Fool’s joke or the usual cute media stunt pulled by tech companies every April 1st. Cloudflare’s launch of its first consumer product — 1.1.1.1 – is real, and claims to be the “Internet’s fastest, privacy-first consumer DNS service”. The decision to launch on April 1 was a geeky play on the…
Every time you visit a website, your internet browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge, etc.), saves a copy of every page that you visit. This list of web pages – and associated data like title page as well as time and date of visit – forms your Web Browsing History. The web browser software does this…
If you don’t know already, it’s virtually impossible..and too late…to be anonymous online. For years, social media sites—and virtually every site online—have been scraping together bits and pieces of your online browsing habits. What for? Mostly to create an eerily accurate picture of who you are. Some people may not realize (or care) about how…
These are realities of our day and age and the technology we all use. Our privacy has been diminishing for years, and it can feel hopeless. The good news is, you can fight back and regain your privacy by using a VPN.
A VPN is one of the most secure ways to connect to the Internet while maintaining complete privacy. What a VPN is and how it works A VPN is an online service you sign up for to get more privacy on the Internet…no matter where you’re connected. Here’s how it works: A VPN takes the…
Bypass content restrictions, Netflix blocks and government censorship with a VPN. What a VPN is and how it works A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is an online service that can help bypass internet restrictions, allowing you to view the content you want. First, a VPN takes the Internet connection you’re on—whether your home connection or…
It’s one of the most asked questions on the internet. “What is a VPN?”A definition seems like a great place to start. VPN stands for “Virtual Private Network.” It essentially creates a secure, unhackable network inside the internet for you to use by encrypting your traffic and hiding your IP address. In a nutshell, your…
As our digital footprint gets bigger, it’s clear that our lives are intertwined with the internet. Now, more than ever, online security is critical. Every time we browse the web, we leave digital footprints that can be tracked, monitored, and exploited by anyone from hackers and advertisers to government agencies. Yikes! This is where a…
Using a VPN is absolutely the best way to optimize your personal internet experience. What a VPN is and how it works A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is an online service that creates a more secure Internet connection, stops spying and tracking, and helps you bypass filters, blocks and restrictions. Many users rely on VPN…
A VPN Delivers the Internet Privacy You Pray For There are a lot of Internet users who are fairly tech-savvy but certainly aren’t information technology (IT) or network experts. That’s most of us. So when the subject of VPNs comes along, many people have at most a passing knowledge of what a virtual private network…
There are plenty of reasons why someone may want to use a virtual private network (VPN). Let’s say you want to increase your online privacy and anonymity by encrypting your internet traffic and hiding your real IP address. Or, perhaps you want to bypass geographic restrictions so that you can access websites, streaming content, or…
Once hackers have breached a network and stolen account information, they can — at their leisure — access your accounts as if they were you.”
Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is one of the best, secure ways to access the Internet and keep your data safe. What a VPN is and how it works First, a VPN is an online service you sign up for to protect your Internet connection. Second, a VPN takes the Internet connection you’re on—whether…
If you’ve ever traveled by plane – or shopped for plane tickets – you know airline tickets are expensive. But you don’t have to bow to the whims of ticket sales websites! You can find cheaper airline fares for almost any flight, and it’s not hard to do. You probably already know that the flight…
This privacy policy has been compiled to better serve those who are concerned with how their ‘Personally Identifiable Information’ (PII) is being used online. PII, as described in US privacy law and information security, is information that can be used on its own or with other information to identify, contact, or locate a single person, or to identify an individual in context.
Please read our privacy policy carefully to get a clear understanding of how we collect, use, protect or otherwise handle your Personally Identifiable Information in accordance with our website.
What personal information do we collect from the people that visit our blog, website or app?
How We Protect Your Information
WhatIsMyIPAddress.com would like to inform You how We protect Your privacy and use information We collect via this Website. This Privacy Policy is an agreement between You and CGP Holdings, Inc. d/b/a WhatIsMyIPAddress.com (hereinafter “WhatIsMyIPAddress”). Please read the terms of this Privacy Policy carefully.
If You do not agree to the terms of this Privacy Policy You may not use Our Website.
We may amend, add to, change, or modify the terms and conditions of this Privacy Policy from time to time. Such amendments will be posted at this Webpage, and will take effect when posted. By continuing to use Our Website, or registering for a Forum Account on Our Community Forum, You agree to the terms of this Privacy Policy and any amendments thereto. You further agree to the use of Your “Personally Identifiable Information” by Us in the manner specified in this Privacy Policy.
Each time You use the Website, the then-current version of this Privacy Policy will apply. Accordingly, each time You use the Website, You should check the date of this Privacy Policy (at the bottom of this page) and review any changes since the last time You used the Website. Although most changes are likely minor, WhatIsMyIPAddress.com reserves the right to modify this Privacy Policy by posting such modification on this page; however, if changes are significant, WhatIsMyIPAddress.com may provide a more prominent notice. Unless WhatIsMyIPAddress.com obtains Your express consent, any revised Privacy Policy will apply only to information collected after the effective date of such revised Privacy Policy, and not to information collected under any earlier Privacy Policy.
We will never share Your personal information with anyone except as described in this Privacy Policy.
Capitalized terms not defined in this Privacy Policy have the same meanings as in WhatIsMyIPAddress.com’s Website Terms of Service located at terms of use. This Privacy Policy is only applicable to the Website and not to any websites of third-parties, which may have data collection, storage, and use practices and policies that differ materially from this Privacy Policy.
a. NON-PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION
When You visit Our Website, We may collect some basic Non-Personally Identifiable Information about You. We collect non-personally identifiable information about You in a number of ways, including tracking Your activities through Your IP address, computer settings, or most-recently visited URL.
Non-Personally Identifiable Information is collected in order to provide You with satisfactory service and to improve Our Website. We may use the information to detect problems with Our server and to administer Our Website. In addition, Non-Personally Identifiable Information is compiled by Us and analyzed on an aggregate basis. We may sell, trade, rent, or transfer Non-Personally Identifiable Information to third-parties.
By using this Website, You agree to the publication of Your IP address on this Website.
Our Website is a location-aware website. When using Our Website, We may ask You to share information about Your location. If You voluntarily agree to share that information with Us, We will collect that information from nearby wireless access points and Your computer’s IP address. We may sell that information to third-parties.
If You do not agree to share information about Your location with Us, We will not collect such information.
b. PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION
We do not collect any Personally Identifiable Information about You unless You voluntarily submit such information to Us, by, for example, agreeing to share Your location or registering for a Forum Account with Our Community Forum. This information lets Us know the specifics of who You are and can be used to identify, contact, or locate You.
Personally Identifiable Information may consist of: Your name, address, telephone number, email address, birth date, etc. By providing Us with Personally Identifiable Information, You consent to Our use of that information.
We do not sell, trade, rent, or transfer Personally Identifiable Information to third-parties.
To serve You better, We may combine Personally Identifiable Information You give Us online. We may also combine that information with publicly available information about You that We may receive from third-parties.
We may contract with third-party companies or persons to provide certain services including data management, service of Our Website, etc. (“Service Providers”).
We provide our Service Providers with the information needed for them to perform these services.
Your Forum Account is password protected from third-parties. Your password is securely stored in Our database and cannot be retrieved. In the event that Your password is forgotten, You may reset Your password by visiting the login page and clicking “I forgot my password” and following the instructions to reset Your password.
You may edit Your Personal Information or account settings at any time by visiting the User Control Panel after a successful login to Your Forum Account.
Our Community Forum is powered by phpBB, which is a bulletin board solution released under the “GNU General Public License v2” and can be downloaded from www.phpbb.com. The phpBB software only facilitates Internet based discussions; phpBB is not responsible for what We allow and/or disallow as permissible content and/or conduct. For further information about phpBB, please see: https://www.phpbb.com/.
By creating a Forum Account, You are required to create a personal profile, which may include personal information. Personal information contained in personal profiles is available and accessible to other Community Forum members and visitors. The Community Forum contains features that permit You to upload, post, transmit, display, perform or distribute content, information, or personal information. Any information that You choose to disclose by means of such features becomes public information over which WhatIsMyIPAddress.com is unable to exercise control. You should exercise caution when deciding to disclose Your personal information by means of such features, and You agree to assume all responsibility for doing so.
By creating a Forum Account, You also consent to receive email communications, including email and private messages, from other Community Forum members. You may edit Your settings in Your Forum Account to disallow other Community members from contacting You by email or sending You private messages. To edit these settings, please access the User Control Panel and click on the “Board Preferences” tab.
You have the ability to delete and control Cookies. If You do not wish to have Cookies placed on Your computer, You should set Your browsers to refuse Cookies before accessing the Website, with the understanding that certain Services and features of the Website may not function properly without the aid of Cookies. If You refuse Cookies, You assume all responsibility for any resulting loss of functionality.
You can learn more about how to delete or control cookies at www.aboutcookies.org.
Some of Our Service Providers may employ clear GIFs (also known as pixel tags, single pixel GIFs, web beacons or action tags) for Our benefit to help Us measure advertising effectiveness.
Clear GIFs help Us better manage content on Our Website by informing Us of what content is effective. Clear GIFs are tiny graphics with a unique identifier, similar in function to cookies, and are used to track the online movements of Our users.
The main difference between the two is that clear GIFs are invisible on the page and are much smaller, about the size of the period at the end of this sentence. Clear GIFs are not tied to Your Personally Identifiable Information.
Our Service Providers may use clear GIFs: (i) in HTML based emails to determine which emails have been opened by recipients; and (ii) to track the visitor traffic on Our Website.
These clear GIFs allow Us to measure the usage of Our Website by Our visitors and the effectiveness of certain communications and marketing campaigns. We may also use clear GIFs in a similar manner in Our own emails and on Our Website.
Clear GIFs can “work with” existing cookies on a computer if they are both from the same website or advertising company. That means, for example, that if a person visited “www.companyX.com”, which uses an advertising company’s clear GIF, the Website would match the clear GIFs identifier and the advertising company’s cookie ID number, to show the past online behavior for that computer.
This collected information can be shared with the advertising company. We may provide such information to our Service Providers but that information can only be used by our Service Providers for Our benefit.
To opt-out of interest-based advertising please visit http://optout.networkadvertising.org/#!/
This Site is affiliated with Publisher First, Inc. dba Freestar (“Freestar”) for the purposes of placing certain advertising on the Site, and Freestar will collect and use certain data for advertising purposes. To learn more about Freestar’s data usage, click here.
Unfortunately, to the extent that such information is also stored in other databases, We cannot always ensure that such corrections or deletions will reach the other databases. We will use all reasonable efforts to ensure that Your information is removed from or corrected in Our records.
If We are served with a subpoena for personal information of a user, We will provide notice to the user whose personal information is sought by the subpoena to give them the opportunity to object to the subpoena. If the user does not object to the subpoena within a specified period of time, We will comply with the terms of the subpoena. Should the user object to the subpoena in a court of law, We will abide by whatever decision is reached by such court of law.
However, despite all reasonable security precautions and processes, such as password protection, encryption technology, and use of firewall technology, no data transmission over the Internet can be guaranteed to be 100% secure.
As a result, while We strive to protect Your Personally Identifiable Information, We cannot guarantee or warrant the security of any information You transmit to or from Our Website, and You do so at Your own risk. Once We receive Your transmission, We will take reasonable precautions to protect its security on Our systems.
If You create a Forum Account with WhatIsMyIPAddress.com, Your password will be Your personal, secret entry code to Our Community Forum. When You access Your account information, it is kept on a secure server and a password is needed to access any account areas.
You can change Your password as many times as You like. We recommend that You keep Your password in a safe place and that You always sign off Your account and close Your browser window once You have finished Your visit.
These precautions will help prevent someone else from accessing Your account, especially if You share a computer with other people or use a computer in a public place such as an Internet cafe or library.
It is the policy of WhatIsMyIPAddress.com not to collect Personally Identifiable Information on any person under the age of 13 and We request that any person under age 13 not submit any Personally Identifiable Information via Our Website. If WhatIsMyIPAddress.com obtains actual knowledge that it has collected Personally Identifiable Information from a child under the age of 13, WhatIsMyIPAddress.com will immediately delete such information from its database. WhatIsMyIPAddress.com has designed this Privacy Policy in order to comply with the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).
We respect your Privacy.
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