Here, we will show you security tips to protect your home from burglary.
A home security device is an essential system that can quickly alert you and your loved ones when someone has broken into your home. For instance, as soon as a burglar triggers the system, a message will be sent to the police.
Cameras will also start recording immediately, and an alarm will alert you of the break-in. Even better, a state-of-the-art home security system may serve as a deterrent, as many burglars who notice the system may avoid trying to break into your home altogether.
Here, we will discuss alarm systems in Hamilton and pertinent security tips that can help protect your home from burglary.
First and foremost, the most important reason to own an alarm system is that it will help reduce the risk of a crime in your home. A recent study by the Electronic Security Association found that 90% of burglars they surveyed claimed they would not try to break into a property with a home security system installed.
Another recent study by the Greenwich Report of Residential Security found that homes without a home security system installed were up to 3.5 times more likely to be broken into. While installing deadbolts on your doors and locks on your windows may help reduce the risk of a burglary, installing a top-of-the-line home security system is arguably the best way to protect your home from criminal activity.
As for cons, some people may worry about the cost of a home security system. For instance, the homeowner may need to pay initial fees, such as installation fees. They may also have to pay a monthly bill, which some homeowners may find inconvenient.
Most people feel that the initial start-up cost is worth it for the peace of mind that they will receive, knowing that their loved ones and their most prized possessions will be protected 24/7, but weighing the pros and cons of home security system ownership is ultimately a decision that you will need to make.
Using a Security System to Deter Burglars
A quick and easy way to indicate to would-be burglars that a cutting-edge home surveillance system currently protects your property is to display yard signs and stickers on your windows. More often than not, such signs will serve as a clear signal that your home is protected, which will make most burglars think twice before breaking.
Install Motion-Sensor Lights
A poorly lit property will also make it easy for criminals to hide and lurk around the targeted home, so installing motion-activated lights will help illuminate hiding spots in and around your property, which may alert neighbors of suspicious activity and scare off any potential criminals.
Motion-activated lights can be integrated into your home security package to provide even more excellent protection. For instance, you can program the system to start recording footage with its cameras as soon as the motion sensors on the lights are triggered.
Install Surveillance Cameras
On that note, installing outdoor and indoor surveillance cameras around your home will quickly alert criminals that your home is always protected. And, if a criminal is foolish enough to try and break in, the cameras will soon track and record their face and movements, so you will have ample evidence to provide to the police to help apprehend the suspect.
Installing alarms may also help protect your home, as the last thing a criminal wants to hear is the blaring sound of a booming alarm. If you wish, you can also program the alarms to be activated by motion-based window and door sensors.
Also, even if you are not home when the break-in occurs, the alarm will notify your neighbors and nearby pedestrians that something is amiss at your home and may galvanize them to act on your behalf.
Reinforce Your Doors
We would also suggest that you reinforce your doors. For instance, you can opt for a top-of-the-line solid metallic lock with anti-drilling properties. You can also get three-inch screws for your hinges and strike plates to reinforce your doors. That is, they will bite into the stud, making it difficult for a burglar to try and kick the door in.
Keep Your Home Private
You should also ensure that people who walk or drive by cannot see the interior of your home from their vantage point. Use privacy film, blinds, or curtains on the glass so that people cannot âwindow shopâ and quickly check to see if you are home and what you own. The last thing you want is to tempt a burglar to break in after having perused your valuables via your large floor-to-ceiling bay windows or sliding doors made of glass.
Invest in a Safe
Finally, we recommend investing in a fireproof safe with the help from a Fireproofing contractor in Vermont so that you can protect your most prized possessions without fear. The safe should also be bolted to either the floor or the wall so that anyone who breaks in wonât be able to extract the safe and walk out the front door with it.
We would also suggest that you keep the passcode private and avoid writing it anywhere that criminals can easily access, including your smartphone, tablet, or computer. The receipts for expensive items should also be stored in the safe, as you may need them for insurance claim processing if someone escapes with your valuables.
Note: This is a guest post by the Canadian Security Professionals. You can reach them via 1-877-494-9911 or their website.
Want to know what a fake antivirus means? Chances are you’ve heard a lot about antivirus software, but you don’t know about fake ones.
Antivirus software is a must-have for protecting your computer online and offline. This software helps you protect your computers from criminal attacks.
Cybercriminals have preyed on people’s inexperience as an avenue to execute their vicious attacks.Â
Today, these hackers have created the fastest-growing malware system â a fake antivirus program.
Sometimes, cybercriminals can overrun the algorithms of highly secured computers. They do this by playing on people’s ignorance, inviting the malware onto their computers.
Fake antivirus is also called rogue antivirus, or fake antivirus.
Many people are ignorant about malware, but you don’t have to be.Â
In this content, you will learn what a fake antivirus is.
Table of Contents
What Is A Fake Antivirus Program?
Fake antivirus software is a program that assumes usefulness to its users by claiming to detect or eradicate viruses and infections from a computer but wreaks havoc instead.
In other words, a fake antivirus program is a complete deceit. Because the program is purely deceitful, it can cause damage to a computer and its user in many ways.
For starters, the program does little or nothing for a user, making the computer more vulnerable to harm.
Most rogue antivirus programs have price tags, so if a person purchases such a service, it would be a total waste of money.
A fake antivirus program turns off the legit antispyware software. This way, the fake antivirus program becomes hard to disable.
In most cases, the fake program is malware, posing a great danger to the computer.
Fake antivirus software makes a user think their computer has a virus.
As soon as the user installs the fake antispyware program, the software will mimic a scan of the computer and show a report of different spyware or viruses detected in the system, which is false.
The fake report will make the computer look like it has some dangerous spyware.Â
Typically, a fake report will reveal several pop-up windows and infections while warning against more infections.
Often, these fake smitfraud programs display a Fix button and request payment. Some others may seal up a user’s data files and install different trojans or malware to oversee the user’s behavior.
Today, you don’t have to be a computer geek to know what computer viruses are. Computer viruses are more or less self-replicating programs that cause havoc in computer systems.
Rogue antivirus programs sometimes come with international headlines when large-scale attacks happen.Â
As a result, even computer experts can fall prey to malware cybercriminals’ devices.
But there’s good news! You can detect a fake antivirus program.
By now, you should know how crucial it is to have security software on your computers to stay safe from infections, malware, spam, viruses, and other vicious internet attacks.
Regrettably, cybercriminals also know how important it is to have protection in your computer system, and they prey on this knowledge to lure people into installing fake anti-spyware programs under the guise that this software will help their computers.
But we all know that these fake antivirus programs are out to do the reverse.
One persistent threat the internet is facing today is fake antivirus programs.
These vicious beasts pose as genuine malware protection, but on the contrary, they are out to do the opposite.
Rogue antivirus databases extort money from unknowing people under the guise of fixing their computers.Â
The fake antivirus software will often turn off your genuine security software, making it hard to remove.
Here are some features of fake antivirus programs that can help you spot them:
They usually interrupt you while surfing the internet by showing a pop-up menu with claims that your computer may have different malicious threats.
A rogue antivirus software usually comes with a phishing link so unknowing people can download and install the alleged security program.Â
When you click the link, it redirects you to a site that sells the rogue antivirus app. The link may also redirect you to scareware, an aggressive and compelling message that makes you click the message in it.
You lose 2Ă more data, time, and money when you’re on their site because they run an infected operating system. So, conduct proper research before clicking on any suspicious link.
When you click on a phishing link in a pop-up window and input your credit card details for any purchase, the cybercriminals behind the scheme automatically access your financial data.
Now, these hackers will not only use your data to conduct identity theft, but you will become prey to malware.
Hence, being wary of fake anti-spyware pop-ups and phishing links would be best.Â
You may be infected with malware if you often see pop-ups showing unusual security warnings and requests for your personal information or credit cards.
If you’re not sure whether an anti-spyware application is legit or take, use these steps below to protect yourself;
Look for suspicious links in pop-up menus. If any aggressive or hyped-up message says your system is infected with a virus or that you have malware, tap the x icon in the top corner to exit the window.
Messages of this nature usually contain phishing links that get your data without your consent.
If you want to buy or renew software subscriptions directly, head to the official websites. Avoid visiting ad links or opening attachments from hidden senders.
Monitor your credit cards for any suspicious and unauthorized activity.
Use genuine and verified malware detection software.
Use a legitimate security program installed on your computer to scan your device if you think it is infected with a malware threat.
Fake Antivirus: Frequently Asked Questions
Fake antivirus software, also known as rogue security software or scareware, seriously threatens your computer’s security. Here’s a breakdown of frequently asked questions to help you identify and avoid these deceptive programs:
What is the meaning of fake antivirus?
Fake antivirus are masqueraded as legitimate antivirus programs. These malicious programs display fake threat warnings and system scans to pressure users to purchase useless “protection” or install additional malware.
What happens if you download a fake antivirus?
Downloading a fake antivirus can have several detrimental consequences:
Financial Loss:Â You might be tricked into paying for useless “protection” or subscriptions.
Data Theft: Fake antivirus programs can steal sensitive passwords or credit card details.
System Damage:Â These programs can install additional malware or disrupt your system’s functionality.
Constant Pop-Ups: Fake antivirus software bombards users with constant pop-up warnings and notifications, hindering computer usage.
How do I know if my antivirus is legit?
HerAntiviruse ways to verify your antivirus software’s legitimacy:
Check the Brand: Research reputable antivirus companies and compare their logos and program names with the ones installed on your system.
Review System Resources: Genuine antivirus programs usually run discreetly in the background without causing significant performance slowdowns. It might be fake if your computer feels sluggish after installing an antivirus.
Search Online Reviews: Look for reviews and ratings of your antivirus software. Trusted antivirus programs typically have positive user reviews.
What is a legit antivirus?
A legitimate antivirus program offers real-time protection against malware, viruses, and other online threats. Here are some key features of genuine antivirus software:
Scheduled Scans:Â Performs regular scans to detect and remove malware.
Automatic Updates: Regularly receive updates to stay protected against the latest threats.
Firewall Protection:Â Provides additional protection against unauthorized access to your system.
Reputable Brand:Â Comes from a well-known and trusted cybersecurity company.
What does a fake antivirus message look like?
Fake antivirus messages often employ scare tactics with:
Urgent Language:Â They might use phrases like “critical system error” or “immediate action required” to pressure you into responding quickly without thinking critically.
Fake Scan Results: They might display fabricated scans listing many nonexistent threats.
Unappetizing Options:Â They might present you with limited choices, like “Upgrade Now” or “System at Risk!” to push you towards purchasing their fake protection.
How do I remove fake antivirus?
Removing a fAntivirusirus can be tricky. Here are some general steps, but it’s crucial to exercise caution:
Safe Mode: Boot your computer into Safe Mode to turn off most startup programs, potentially including the fake antivirus.
Control Panel: Use your Control Panel or Settings app and try to uninstall the program through the standard uninstall process.
Anti-Malware Software: If uninstalling doesn’t work, consider using a trusted anti-malware program to scan and remove the fake antivirus. Be cautious when downloading new software, as some malware programs might disguise themselves as anti-malware solutions.
How do I get rid of fake viruses on my Android?
If you suspect a fake virus on your Android phone, don’t download any recommended “cleaning apps” from the pop-up message. These are likely part of the scam itself. Here’s what to do:
Safe Mode: Boot your phone into safe mode. This disables third-party apps, making identifying and uninstalling the fake antivirus easier. Search online for instructions specific to your Android model.
Uninstall the Fake App:Â Go to your phone’s settings and locate the app list. Find the suspicious app associated with the fake virus warnings and uninstall it.
Scan with a Reputable Antivirus:Â Download a trusted antivirus app from the Google Play Store and run a full system scan.
Can phone viruses be fake?
Yes, absolutely. Fake viruses, often displayed through pop-up messages, are used by scammers to trick users into downloading useless or malicious software. These fake notifications might claim to have detected viruses or security threats that don’t exist.
Is there a fake McAfee antivirus?
Unfortunately, yes. Scammers often impersonate well-known antivirus companies like McAfee. Be cautious of unsolicited pop-up messages or phone calls claiming to be from McAfee and offering “urgent” security solutions.
Do some websites fake viruses?
Some malicious websites can display fake virus warnings as pop-ups. These pop-ups might pressure you to download software or call a fake support number. If you encounter such a pop-up, don’t click on anything within it. Simply close the window and navigate away from the website.
Here are some additional tips to avoid fake antivirus scams:
Never install antivirus software from pop-up messages.
Download security software only from trusted sources, such as the official app store for your phone or the website of a reputable antivirus company.
Be wary of scare tactics. Legitimate antivirus software won’t bombard you with alarming pop-up messages.
If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to seek help. Consult a trusted tech-savvy friend or contact customer support for a genuine antivirus company.
Conclusion
Fake Antivirus is malware antiviruses themselves as the real deal. So you must be careful with the antivirus you install, such as the fake Antivirus.
If you suspect you have a fake antivirus, it’s best to seek help from a computer technician or contact the customer support of a reputable antivirus company for further guidance.
By understanding the tactics of fake antivirus programs and following these tips, you can protect yourself from falling victim to these deceptive schemes and safeguard your computer’s security.
Meanwhile, following the tips discussed in this article, you should be safe.
Although you can only use Thunder VPN on your Android phone, I will show you how to download it for your PC in this post.
A VPN or virtual private network is software that helps create a tunnel between your network and a private VPN server. This VPN helps hide your IP address and encrypt web traffic from snoopers.
Thunder VPN is also a VPN app that works similarly for the device. You can download it for C or Android to protect data and other information from hackers. This article will help you to download Thunder VPN for your PC.
Thunder VPN is a free proxy app for an android device to protect your IP address and secure the connection from snoopers or fraud people. This app contains lots o features including free uses with unlimited bandwidth.
Thunder VPN doesnât require any registration fees or login process, so you can use it on your Android device and PC easily.
Why Do You Need Thunder VPN For Your PC?
You might wonder why you need to use a âThunder VPNâ when you can easily use a Wi-Fi or broadband connection.
Here are some reasons to use Thunder VPN for your PC:
You can secure your physical location and hide your IP address from other users or hackers.
Quickly enter any websites blocked by your government or have some geographical restrictions.
You can stop ISP throttling and torrenting safely by using Thunder VPN on your PC.
Thunder VPN will protect your PC data from stealing or hacking.
When you start using Thunder VPN for your PC, you will face many problems and benefit from this app. Some of the maiadvantages e and disadvantages are given below-
Advantages of Thunder VPN
You can stream BBC iPlayer with this Thunder VPN.
The app provides you with a secure and private line and also protects the data from hackers.
Disadvantages of Thunder VPN
The download Speed of this app is deficient, which will slow the connection.
This app provides a rotten login policy with zero customer support.
Thunder VPN is one kind of protection app that keeps your data safe and sound from snoopers. Many free VPN apps are available for your device in the Google store. You can choose the best ne and install it on your PC.
Thunder VPN is an Android app that can easily be installed on your Android device. If you want to install the Thunder VPN app on your PC, you need an emulator to convert the Android app into software.
For all kinds of android apps, Bluestacks is the best emulator among others. Follow the steps of busing an emulator for your PC and enjoy a free internet service with access to all sites.
Step 1: If you donât have an emulator installed in your PC, first install an emulator to your PC. To do that. Go to Google and search âBluestacks free download.â They will show you the l test version according to your PC. Download it for PC and use it for the installation process.
Step 2: After installing Bluestacks on your PC, go to the main menu for the Google Play Store. After clicking the Google Store, they will ask you to log in. So, log in with the email ID on your computer or browser.
Step 3: The Complloging-in process will help you download the app for your PC and run it from there.
Step 4: Now. You are ready with a Blu stacks app. On-screen, you will see a search bar in the app’s corner. Write âThunder VPNâ and press enter. You will see a pop-uwidowow on your screen.
Step 5: Many free VPN apps will appear on your screen. Select âThunder VPNâ and download it from the apps. Wait for some time, and I will download it to your PC.
You are done with the download process for Thunder VPN on your PC.
Now, come to the Installation part. Here are also some steps to follow:
Step 1: First, click on your downloaded âThunder VPNâ app to open. You will see an install utton; click on this button.
Step 2: Agree with terms that the VPN app will ask. Click on the OK button. Okay, please wait a moment to install it.
Step 3: It will automatically install on your PC, and you will be ready to use it.
Click âThunder VPNâ to open the app, and you will be ready to use it. As this VPN is completely free, no extra settings are required.
If you have any loading issues due to connection problems or regarding Bluestacks software, use the Microsoft.net framework software and enjoy the service.
Thunder VPN offers a free VPN service with some limitations, but there are also security concerns to consider. Here’s a breakdown thelp p you decide if it’s the right choice for you:
Is Thunder VPN safe to use?
Thunder VPN might be okay for light browsing as it prevents IP, DNS, and WebRTC leaks. However, it uses thoutdateded SSL protocol for encryption, which is not considered very secure for sensitive activities. There’s also a lack of otransparencycy regarding data logging practices. A more reputable VP with military-grade encryption protocols and clear no-logs policies is recommended for solid security and privacy.
Does Thunder VPN hide my browsing activity?
Thunder VPN might mask your IP address from websites you visit, but how they handle your data traffic is unclear. Without a strong encrypt on protocol and a clear no-logs policy, there’s a chance your online activity could still be monitored.
Is Thunder VPN free?
Yes, Thunder VPN offers a free version with limitations on bandwidth and server locations. They also have a paid version with more features, but reviews suggest a minimal improvement.
How do I connect to Thunder VPN?
Thunder VPN currently has an app that is only for Android devices. There are no knoknow optionsf desktops, iOS, or other platforms. If you need a VPN for a ider range of devices, look for a service with broader compatibility.
Can I install Thunder VPN on my laptop?
No, there is no official Thunder VPN app for laptops. You might finunofficial  wor ounds online, but these can be risky and are not recommended. Reliable VPN services typically offer apps for desktops, laptops, and mobile devices.
Does Thunder VPN work with Netflix?
There is no guarantee that Thunder VPN will work to unblock Netflix or other streaming services that implement VPN restrictions.
Given the security concerns and limited functionality, here are some factors to consider when choosing a VPN:
Security:Â Look for a VPN with military-grade encryption protocols (AES-256) and a no-logs policy.
Features: Consider features vital to you, such as unlimited bandwidth, server locations, and compatibility with multiple devices.
Price: Many reputable VPNs offer free trials or money-back guarantees, so you can test them before committing.
Remember: Regarding VPNs, prioritizing security and features might outweigh the appeal of a completely free service.
Conclusnumber of ion
usersVPN user is increasing dafor its reliability and security purposes. Also, this VPN will give you access to sites that authorities or governments restrict. You can use Thunder VPNÂ or its free services with unlimited bandwidth. But this app decreases the download speed.
Still, you can choose the Thunder VPN and download it for your PC. A good VPN app will pro ct the data and, hide your IP address, and give you access to all sites. , download apps from your Bluestacks software, and enjoy the service of a VPN app on your PC.
In this exclusive interview, we spoke with Auctify’s Co-founders – Hisham El-Halabi, Founder & CTO, and Arthur Nguyen-Cao, Chairman and CEO.
Interestingly, Auctify recently launched the Auctify Specs, an AI smart glass aiming to boost productivity, securely and safely.
From a security perspective, Auctify Specs offers secure data encryption without servers. All of Auctifyâs machine-learning algorithms are run securely on the userâs smartphone hardware, so their sensor data never leaves their device.
Likewise, we delved into the biggest challenges of smart glass data security, the future of smart glass security and privacy, and lessons learned for manufacturers on how Google Glass didnât succeed because of privacy reasons.
Table of Contents
Here Are Auctify’s Co-founders (Hisham El-Halabi & Arthur Nguyen-Cao) Responses To Our Questions
Can you tell us more about Auctify?
Hisham El-Halabi:
Auctify Specs are the worldâs first productivity-boosting smart glasses that equip users to focus on the things that matter most. Auctify Specs uses computer vision, machine learning software, advanced encryption, and proven methods in psychology to help users improve focus, work habits, and behaviors.
Google Glass had privacy issues. What is Auctify doing to change the publicâs perception of smart glassesâ data security and privacy?
Hisham El-Halabi:
At Auctify, user data privacy is one of our top priorities, which is why we ensure our users know exactly what is happening to their data. All raw sensor data collected by Specs is encrypted and sent securely over Bluetooth to the userâs phone, which is decrypted and processed by our machine-learning models directly on their phoneâs hardware. The raw data never leaves your phone, so it would be physically impossible for someone to access it without breaking into their phone and decrypting it.Â
Whatâs the future hold for smart glass security and privacy?
Arthur Nguyen-Cao:
The data collected by smart glasses must be handled to protect the privacy of the user and the people around them. The former is accomplished by informing the user and giving them full control over the use of their data.
Google Glass raised several privacy concerns because there was no indication of when the onboard camera was being used, so people feared they were being recorded whenever they saw someone wearing Glass. In general, to protect the privacy of those around the user, smart glasses should clearly indicate when a user is recording with the camera (such as an LED activating when the camera is on).
With Auctify Specs, the camera is used for the sole purpose of activity tracking, the user cannot use it to capture images or videos manually.
Out of all of Auctify Specs’ features, what’s your favorite feature, and why?
Hisham El-Halabi:
Specs have a lot of cool features, but what we love most is its core functionality in tracking and improving productivity. Like most people, we struggle with procrastination, so we couldnât be more excited to have a tool to help us optimize our day finally.
With it being cybersecurity month, whatâs one tip youâd like to provide to our readers?
Arthur Nguyen-Cao:
One of the best ways to improve your cybersecurity, is simply to be aware of who you are giving access to your data, and what it is being used for. Familiarize yourself with the privacy policy of companies that have access to your information to decide if youâre comfortable with what you are sharing with them.
For this interview, we thank Auctify’s co-founders for their time.
Considering proxy optimization, this post will show you 4 things you didnât know a proxy could do.
You may be using a proxy server. It could be because you want access to specific content unavailable in your geographical region. You know that hiding your IP address means the remote server will not know where you are browsing from. You get to explore different sites while maintaining your privacy and anonymity.
Proxies also allow for a better browsing experience. By caching data, you get faster loading speeds. You also increase your security through data encryption.Web scraping proxies give you a gateway between you and the remote servers. Think about it as a gate through which all the traffic must go. It filters harmful content, thus keeping you safe online.
What we have mentioned above are some things that proxies can do. You probably know about some of them, but there is so much more.
In our article, we will share some of them with you. Ultimately, you will realize why a proxy is a good investment.
Traffic Compression and Website Caching Resulting In Faster Loading Speeds
Fast-loading pages are one of the best indicators of a good user experience. No one has time to be on a website that takes forever to load. You want to access information as fast as possible.Â
The same applies in the case where you are streaming media. A proxy server will compress data, allowing you to save bandwidth. It reduces the load coming into your site so that you enjoy optimal speeds at all times.
They may be particular websites you visit pretty often. If you are using a proxy, it will cache such websites. Think of it like remembering your information on that specific site. It will store the relevant content even for many users.Â
A proxy can be helpful to institutions or offices that use particular data sources online. The type of data your proxy will cache includes images, web pages, and even files. The loading time will be shorter the next time you log into that particular site. The other advantage of caching is that you reduce the bandwidth you use.
2. Preventing Cookies and Advertisements on Your Site
Cookies have their advantages. They can help the browsing experience. It does it by remembering you every time you log back to a particular site. Unfortunately, they can also be very annoying.Â
Marketing companies use them for targeting. You will find advertisements you did not sign up for continually popping up. The cookies may also expose you to vulnerabilities. Some may have malware that hackers can use to access your site.
You can avoid cookies and advertisements by installing the correct proxy server. You get anonymity and security, resulting in a better experience online.
3. Circumventing Internet (IP) Blocks, Geo-Blocks, and Firewalls
There are instances when you do not have access to a particular site. Further investigation shows that the owners have blocked your IP. It is prevalent in gaming or video streaming sites.Â
Your internet service provider may also restrict you from accessing certain content. If you feel the tailoring does not serve you well, installing a proxy server is the way to go.
Firewalls are excellent protection when browsing the internet. But they may also restrict your access to specific websites. A proxy will give you security while allowing you to bypass such firewalls.
Entertainment companies like Netflix and BBC iPlayer have Geoblocking. You can only access the content in a specific geographic location. It can be frustrating because you could be paying for the service. Yet their setup only allows you to use particular programs and not others.Â
You can access such material by hiding your IP address. Installing a proxy will allow you to bypass such restrictions. You even choose the location you want to seem like you are in. You could be on the African continent but appear like you are in America with the correct proxy. It spoofs the remote server, allowing you to bypass the geo-blocking.Â
But, these companies know that individuals use proxies to access their sites. They may have tools in place that could make your attempts ineffective. When shopping for a proxy, have a good understanding of what you need it for. Not all will allow you to bypass restrictions.Â
As a parent, you may worry about the sites your children visit. The internet has a lot of content that may not be age-appropriate. You could also find unsavory characters who like to target little children.
You may want to control some websites your staff members visit as an employer. It could be about security or even avoiding time wastage. Some of them may also visit inappropriate sites. The same applies to educational institutions. They may want a way to watch the sites students visit.
Installing a proxy server allows you to track and control internet content. You can block those that you find undesirable. It also allows you to keep track of the userâs online activities. You can also detect any data breach or illegal activity that may be occurring in the office.
Proxy software routes your internet traffic through a remote server. This can mask your IP address, location, and browsing activity from the websites you visit. Proxies can also bypass geo-restrictions and access content unavailable in your region.
How do I optimize my proxy for better performance?
Here are some tips to optimize your proxy for speed and efficiency:
Choose the Right Location:Â Select a proxy server located geographically close to you to minimize latency (delay) in communication.
Connection Type:Â Match your proxy connection type (HTTP, HTTPS, SOCKS) to your needs. Consider factors like security requirements and compatibility with specific websites.
Server Load:Â Avoid overloaded proxy servers that can lead to slow connection speeds. Some proxy providers offer real-time server load information.
Browser Settings:Â Configure your browser settings to use the specific proxy server and port number provided by your proxy service.
Disable Conflicting Software:Â Certain software like firewalls or antivirus programs might interfere with proxy connections. Try temporarily disabling them to see if it improves performance.
How do we increase proxy speed?
Not all optimization methods directly increase speed, but they can improve overall efficiency:
Close Unnecessary Background Applications:Â Background applications can consume bandwidth and slow down your internet connection.
Clear Browser Cache:Â A cluttered cache can slow down browsing. Regularly clear your browser cache and cookies.
Upgrade Your Internet Plan: If your internet plan offers limited bandwidth, upgrading can improve overall internet speed, benefiting proxy use.
What is proxy software for Android devices?
There are proxy apps specifically designed for Android devices. These apps allow you to configure your device to use a proxy server, similar to setting up a proxy on a desktop computer.
How does a proxy server improve performance?
In some cases, a proxy server can improve perceived performance by:
Content Caching: Proxy servers sometimes cache frequently accessed content. If you revisit a website, the content might be retrieved from the cache instead of downloaded from the source again, potentially saving time.
Load Balancing:Â Proxy servers can distribute incoming traffic across multiple servers, reducing strain on any single server and potentially improving responsiveness.
Important to Note: While these methods can help optimize your proxy experience, some inherent limitations exist. Proxies can sometimes introduce additional steps in the connection process, and depending on the server location and load, speeds might be slower than a direct internet connection.
Final Thoughts
Proxy optimization on your website has many benefits. We have looked at four things you didnât know a proxy could do. You have the option of free proxies. However, you may want to consider the paid options.Â
Free proxies have some limitations. They could expose you to particular vulnerabilities while online. Since many people will also be flocking to them, they may be ineffective. It could impact your browsing experience. It helps you buy your proxy from a trustworthy provider.Â
When shopping for a proxy, first understand what your needs are. It would be best to research to know what you are buying better. It will help you make better choices. You get greater functionality with whatever you buy.
This is an exclusive interview with Ramil Khantimirov, the CEO and Co-founder of StormWall.
It might please you to know that StormWall is an international cybersecurity company that protects IT infrastructures from DDoS attacks. They offer an industry-leading, world-class DDoS protection service that uses AI technologies.
Recently, experts from StormWall studied DDoS attacks targeting the online retail industry in Europe. StormWall collected data from its clients working in multiple e-commerce segments during the research.
Experts discovered that during the pandemic, between February and October 2020, the number of DDoS attacks targeted at online retail services quadrupled compared to last year.
The frequency of DDoS Attacks has been constantly rising, but the growth rate accelerated dramatically during the pandemic.
Ramil Khantimirov, CEO and Co-founder of StormWall
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Here Are Ramil Khantimirov’s Responses To Our Questions:
1. Question: How do you define a secure website?
Ramil Khantimirov:
A website can only be described as “secure” when it meets two challenges:
Firstly, it should guarantee users’ personal data protectiond shield them from fraud and other actions by malefactors.
Secondly, it should ensure the service’s fail-safe functioning and free from any disruption, be it a DDoS or a hacker attack. After all, service failure at a critical moment may lead to unrecoverable losses.
2. Question: The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a rise in DDoS attacks. Do you think they correlate?
Ramil Khantimirov:
They do indeed correlate. Moreover, after introducing quarantine restriction measures, we noticed a sharp increase in DDoS attacks on industries traditionally prone to such attacks (online entertainment, games) and sectors that have become essential during the lockdown. For instance, we have detected a 4-fold increase in attacks on businesses in the online retail industry.
This can mainly be attributed to 2 factors: the increased social role of such businesses during the epidemic and the unprecedented abundance of free time among malefactors, as most no longer have to commute to work or school.
3. Question: Some cyberattacks are carried out to steal personal data from websites. Are there security tools that should be used?
Ramil Khantimirov:
That is an excellent question, as no direct and concise answer exists. Website owners should utilize every possible measure to protect their users, starting with vulnerability analysis and using tools like Web Application Firewall (WAF).
4. Question: How would you advise companies to respond when they fall victim to DDoS attacks?
Ramil Khantimirov:
The best approach is to tackle the problem before it even arises. It is not that difficult anyway: DDoS protection costs are low, and the setup is usually done in minutes. Skimping on preventive measures may end up costing much more. In case of an actual attack, it may take several hours before the website becomes operational again.
Here are the tell-tale signs of an ongoing DDoS attack:
1: The website takes forever to load, and the attempt results in an error (502, 503, 504)
2: An attempt to load a page immediately results in an error.
3: The website responses are slow, and the navigation feels sluggish.
Some recommendations on how to deal with a DDoS attack:
Stop the attack on your own using an advanced web server, OS, or optimization settings. Remember that you are permanently restricted by the available resources (CPU, RAM, network bandwidth, etc.). And should the attacker’s resource pool ever so slightly exceed yours, you will be powerless to stop your website from going down.
Ask for help from your hosting or internet provider. You will be at their mercy and reliant on their resources, though.
Find a company that specializes in DDoS protection services.
Each option requires time for the countermeasures to be set up â this usually takes several hours beginning from the start of the attack. Therefore, we always recommend considering your business’s security at the earliest stages of building your IT infrastructure.
This will prevent a company from making heavy profits, incurring customer losses, and experiencing reputational damage due to negligence.
5. Question: Apart from anti-DDoS protection, are there any innovations customers should expect in the future from StormWall?
Ramil Khantimirov:
Sure! The principal value proposition of StormWall lies in helping the IT communityensure information sustainability by providing proactive and affordable high-quality services with a focus on DDoS and hacker attack protection.
We are eager to help our customers on any scale â our services range from personal protection to enterprise-level solutions. Aside from that, we act as tech evangelists by popularizing “information sustainability” and educating the IT community about the importance of security, digital hygiene, and timely resource protection.
Having our situation center enables us to be on the cutting edge of innovation and serve as a frontline defense for our clients. Our staff at the center keeps track of any new attack methods and works hard to research and develop effective countermeasures.
We also have plans to release an on-premises hardware DDoS protection appliance that will work in hand with existing security instruments. Our specialists are working on it now, and we are excited to roll it out soon.
6. Question: With several years of operation, what is the strength of your company against its competitors?
Ramil Khantimirov:
What sets our company apart is that our focus is on DDoS protection. While our competitors only offer it as a complementary service, we treat attack protection as our core product and mission.
We strive for perfection in our products and customer support because our clients cannot afford to break down under adversarial pressure. From the beginning of our journey, StormWall has been developing and perfecting only our tech based on traffic analysis.
We continue to improve and evolve, helping shape how DDoS attack protection tools are developed.
Note: This was initially published in February 2021 but has been updated for freshness and accuracy.
This post will show you what the Security Operations Center is about and why it matters to your company and brand.
As of 2019, over 7,000 breaches have been committed by cyberattacks. The combined force of this strategically placed invasion has exposed over 15.1 billion records. The median cost of a data breach is now $3,92 million. It takes in-house defense and cyber units an average of 2790 days to identify a perp and contain a possible break.
A cyberattack not only undermines your company brand but also exposes your clients, and as of 2016, it also makes you liable to different criminal charges depending on your region. Governments worldwide have established regulations to protect ID and data, forcing companies to bear the responsibility for said protection.
In other words, when a breach happens, and someone is exposed to an attack, your company is the one that should have protected them, and YOU and your business bear the brunt of the responsibility, penalties, and charges. By 2019, 865 organizations rated SOC as an essential pillar of their organization and the critical component of their cybersecurity strategy.
An effective SOC helps your company understand its weakness when dealing with pressing security problems, and, more importantly, given the level of mastery and adaptability most cybercriminals operate within the present, it improves your overall posture to future attacks.Â
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What Is SOC?
SOC stands for Security Operations Center. It is the spine and central nervous system upon which every company’s cybersecurity program is built. SOCs are hubs for specialists tasked with keeping your company safe from cyber assault.
They serve as the bat cave for people working off-site or on-site, whose primary goal is to keep your company safe from digital bullies.Â
What Are Its Goals And Purpose?
It ultimately depends on the company. Each SOC team has different objectives, varying from one organization to another. Each company has its goals, objectives, and what it needs to protect.
An industry might have IP (intellectual property) issues they must keep under wraps. A political office might have classified emails. A banking institution might have client IDs and codes. E-commerce might need to safeguard client portfolios. It all depends.Â
Nonetheless, most SOC units have typical mission parameters:
Consolidate and analyze data from networks, devices, and cloud services.Â
Critically view all data and coordinate responses to alerts and critical information.
Write incident reports on alerts and effectively think up ways to shore up and plan for future attacks.Â
Essential Functions Of A Security Operations Center Team
SOC teams have various functions, and each differs from client to client. Nevertheless, an average SOC team has to be able to provide specific benefits or goal-oriented components.
Minimize a Breach’s Impact
The SOC team’s main objective is to minimize the impact of an attack on the organization. They work on the principle that attacks will occur no matter how proactive you are.
They cut down the time before detection (known as dwell time), they shore up critical assets, and, more importantly, they manage to protect vulnerable data that might compromise the organization.Â
Reduce Response Time
The less time an attacker has to stop poking around in your system, the better. SOC teams can accelerate the pace and can contract an attacker’s breach.
Increase Visibility of Security
Sometimes, the best deterrent is to look strong. To make it so a perpetrator thinks twice before launching an attack.
That’s why we like our fences and we like to place the security company’s logo on our front yard. SOC teams make it known that a cyberattack will cost a perpetrator time and money by simply existing and making it known that they are present.
AUDITs
The first order of business for a SOC time is to analyze your business and tell you, objectively, where you’re losing water. Where you are weak and where you need to marshal your forces. They are objective in this task.
Proactive
SOC teams react and are proactive by staying one step ahead of attackers. They are well-informed of what’s happening worldwide and will act accordingly and proactively chase a potential threat.
Digital Clues
SOC teams also analyze digital clues to discover evidence of attacks that might not have triggered any sort of alarm. This is important because they proactively search patterns and spots where your safety procedures are being tested.
Keep Business Informed
The ultimate goal of a great SOC team is to keep you informed. To give you up-to-date communication on the current trends, and data that might end up affecting your business.
To help shape your future security maps and responses and better calculate the financial loss a cyber threat might cost you. Depending on your business needs, this SOC team will provide all the benefits of cybersecurity services.
What Makes A Good SOC Team?
It’s experts, and they’ve trained their personnel accordingly. A great SOC team is competent in all things related to cybersecurity, and overall, all act proactively, not only reactive. It is preemptive and not passive.
Why is an effective security operations center essential and for whom can it be especially necessary?Â
Outside SOC teams as a service, help organizations overcome the problems of an ever-changing cybersecurity landscape. One where they might have talent gaps. They also offer a rapid response and quick scalability if needed.
What is the key function of the SOC?
The SOC’s primary function is proactively managing an organization’s security posture. This encompasses:
Security Event Monitoring and Analysis:Â SOC analysts continuously monitor IT systems and networks for suspicious activity that might indicate a potential security breach.
Security Incident Response:Â If a security threat is detected, the SOC team initiates a coordinated incident response to contain the threat, minimize damage, and restore normal operations.
Threat Detection and Hunting:Â SOC analysts actively search for hidden threats within the network, going beyond simply reacting to alerts.
What are the functions of a security operations center?
The SOC performs a variety of essential security functions, including:
Security Information and Event Management (SIEM):Â Utilizing SIEM tools, the SOC collects, aggregates, and analyzes data from various security sources to identify potential security incidents.
Vulnerability Management:Â The SOC proactively identifies and addresses vulnerabilities in systems and applications to minimize potential attack vectors.
Security Posture Management: The SOC assesses the organization’s overall security posture and recommends improvements to strengthen its defenses.
Compliance Reporting:Â The SOC ensures the organization adheres to security regulations and compliance standards.
The SOC follows a structured process to ensure effective security operations:
Log Collection and Aggregation:Â Security logs from various network devices and systems are collected and centralized for analysis.
Event Correlation and Normalization:Â Raw log data is normalized and correlated to identify potential security incidents.
Security Event Analysis:Â SIEM and security analysts examine the normalized data to determine if it represents a genuine threat.
Incident Response:Â If a threat is confirmed, the SOC initiates an incident response plan to contain, eradicate, and recover from the attack.
Lessons Learned and Improvement:Â The SOC team analyzes past incidents to identify areas for improvement and enhance their security posture.
What are the key components of a security operations center?
Several key components work together within a SOC:
People:Â Highly skilled security analysts staff the SOC, possessing expertise in threat detection, incident response, and security tools.
Technology:Â Advanced security technologies like SIEM, intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS), and threat intelligence feeds empower SOC analysts.
Processes:Â Defined workflows and procedures guide SOC activities, ensuring efficient incident response and streamlined security operations.
By understanding the functions, processes, and components of a Security Operations Center, you gain valuable insight into the vital role it plays in safeguarding our digital infrastructure.
Note: This was initially published in March 2021, but has been updated for freshness and accuracy.
If you’re tired of traveling on land, a cruise through the UK might be a great option. Here are some of the hot spots in the region that you will want to make sure are on your ship’s itinerary.Â
Hot Spots On UK Cruises
Highlands
The Scottish Highlands boast castles, palaces, forts, rolling green hills, and tiny villages. One critical stop here is Dunrobin Castle. St. Andrew’s Cathedral, Cawdor Castle, and the historic village of Inverness are also good stops. Fans of mythology might also favor a trip down the River Ness to the Loch Ness. Nature enthusiasts can visit Fort Williams, Cairngorms National Park, and the Ben Nevis mountain. Â
The 70 Orkney Islands sport lush green fields. The main island, Orkney, is the most popular cruise ship destination. There, you can see St. Magnus Cathedral, Kirkwall’s markets, and two palaces. You can also hit Balfour Castle.Â
Shetland Islands
The capital of these islands is Lerwick. Actually, it is the only town on the main island. Instead, you’re more likely to encounter others while on the water near these islands. Walkers will love the Shetlands as they stroll through tiny villages and check out archeological sites. If you’re there for the wildlife, you’ll love the easy to spot Shetland ponies and seabirds.Â
Hebrides
The Hebrides Islands are off the western coast of Scotland. Unfortunately, a cruise is not going to get you deep into the Hebrides. Instead, you’ll probably just stop at the largest island, where you can see the pristine landscape, sea eagles, and seals. If you’re lucky, you might spend some time in the waters, where you will probably see whales and dolphins. If you get to spend time here, make sure you hit the capital’s historic village and whiskey distillery.Â
Channel Islands
No UK cruises are complete without a stop at the Channel Islands that sit between France and the UK, proudly boasting a hybrid of both cultures and independence. The largest of these islands bring you cobbled streets, sea-cliffs, harbors, and green fields, while smaller islands can be more remote. While there, visit the Jersey War Tunnels and the house where Victor Hugo wrote “Les Miserables” or take a quick trip to France.Â
Southampton
This city boasts plenty of museums and galleries, including the SeaCity Museum. If you’re looking for a peaceful time here, hit Mayflower Park to sit and watch the ships. Those who love history might prefer a trip to Stonehenge. It is less than an hour from this port. If your ship departs from the UK, there’s a pretty good chance you will leave from this city and have plenty of time to explore before or after your trip.Â
Portsmouth
Portsmouth is a great place if you love seafaring or military history. Here, you can visit Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. It is home to the UK’s Royal Marines Museum. You could also hit the Biggin Hill Heritage Hanger or Bovington Tank Museum. If you’re there for the views, climb Spinnaker Tower, which can let you see the docks, city, and sea. It also has a glass bottomed skywalk for those feeling particularly brave. This is another potential departure port for those leaving from the UK.Â
Cornwall
This tiny town is picturesque and offers a lot to do at your stop. Nature enthusiasts could adventure at Lost Gardens of Heligan or the Eden Project. You could also cruise down Fal Estuary or climb to the top of St. Micheal’s Mount.Â
Scilly Islands
The Scilly Islands offer a great place to view untouched natural areas. Nature lovers could snorkel with seals or take a trail ride along the coast. Plant lovers must visit Tresco Abbey Gardens to see exotic plants.Â
Glasgow
Glasgow is a popular port to get cruise ship passengers to see Scotland. There, you can browse art galleries, museums, the Glasgow Cathedral, and the City Chambers. You could also stop at the Riverside Museum, Kelvingrove Park, and the Glasgow Botanical Gardens. If you’re a fan of art and architecture combined, you should visit the House for an Art Lover.Â
There is a lot to see and do on a cruise to the UK. Therefore, you need to make sure your itinerary hits the highlights you want to see.Â
Here, I will show you how to detect GPS tracking on your cell phone.
Smartphones have had a significant impact on all aspects of our lives. Many features on our smartphones make our lives easier.
Be it in business, education, health, or social life. But the truth is that some smartphone features are prone to abuse, which poses a huge risk to owners.
It may be obvious, but GPS stands for Global Positioning System. Its design was initially for military use. Today, it is available for civilian use without any restrictions.
GPS trackers use the Global Navigation System network to track movements and give location information. GPS devices receive microwave and satellite signals and use calculations to detect locations and track speed and movement. This means that you can find out where an object with a GPS tracker currently is. You can also find out where itâs been.
Today, smartphones come equipped with their own GPS tracking system. The standard GPS that comes with an iPhone or Android phone may not be sensitive enough to give an exact address of where the phone is. It can, however, narrow down the location to within a small area.
Some apps on smartphones can track your GPS location. Some of these apps can abuse this information by sharing it with 3rd parties, resulting in account takeover issues.
Why Some Apps Need GPS To Perform?
Depending on the app, there are several reasons why an app may require your GPS location to perform. Rather than go through every single app and why they need GPS, here’s a general breakdown of various app categories.
Weather – Weather apps need GPS to track your location and accurately give you the forecast for your area.
Maps and Travel – This is a no-brainer. Navigation apps require GPS to give turn-by-turn directions. Travel apps use GPS to help you find cool places nearby. Some ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft use GPS so drivers know where to pick you up.
Social – Social media apps may require GPS if you want to “check-in” or tag yourself at a particular location.
Shopping – Some retail store apps require GPS for simple things such as quickly finding a location near you.
Streaming – Live streaming TV apps may require GPS location to confirm regional blackouts and other features.
Games – Not many games require GPS location, but some, like PokĂŠmon Go, rely heavily on it.
Health and Fitness – These apps use GPS to track your runs and exercises, including distance and time.
Smarthome – These apps use GPS for geofencing so that devices in your house automatically turn on and off when you leave or get home.
Camera – Some camera apps use GPS mostly to insert locations in photos.
Technically, apps donât require GPS to perform. Most of the time, itâs just an added advantage. With other apps, GPS is integral to its functioning. Navigation apps such as Google Maps are a good example.
Most of the apps that use your location data do so for legitimate reasons. However, this is not always the case. Some do so for malicious reasons.
To ensure your device’s iOS and Android security, itâs a good idea to check all apps on your phone that have access to your GPS location.
If you find any apps using your location that you donât recognize or if you donât want to share your location, then you can easily revoke permission.
You can manually check your phone to see which apps access your location. Just follow these simple steps:
To check apps that can access your location on your iPhone:
Go to Settings and click on Privacy and then proceed to click on Location Services.
You can scroll through the list of apps on your iPhone and tap them to view and change permissions. You can choose âNeverâ or âWhile Usingâ. Despite modern technology, an app doesnât have to track you constantly.
To check apps that can access your location on Android:
Navigate to Settings and click on Apps and then App Permissions.
Tap on Location.
Scroll through the list of Apps on your phone to see which apps have location access.
How To Detect Spyware Is Using Your Location
Spyware is an extreme hacking method that involves installing 3rd party software onto a device. It enables the hacker to collect information, including GPS location.
Companies like mSpy and FlexiSpy can remotely send GPS location data back to hackers, thus leaving you vulnerable. These spy apps cost as little as $30 per month and are completely hidden from the victims.
You can use apps such as Certo AntiSpy for iOS or Certo Mobile Security for Android to detect spyware accessing your location. These will scan your phone to detect spyware.
Detecting Spyware using Certo AntiSpy for iOS:
Purchase Certo AntiSpy and access your Certo account to download software and view your license key. Log-in details are emailed after purchase.
In your Certo account, click License and Downloads. Download the Certo AntiSpy installer into your computer.
After installation, run the installer. Follow the instructions on your screen to install Certo AntiSpy onto your computer. Enter your license key afterward.
First, you must create an iTunes backup to scan your device.
Once youâve created an iTunes backup, it will be available to scan in the Certo application. From the list, click scan, and you can check your device for spyware and other security issues.
Detecting Spyware using Certo Mobile Security for Android:
Download the Certo Mobile Security app for free on the Play Store.
Once downloaded, launch the app. Access the appâs features from the dashboard page.
From the dashboard, click on the Scan button.
At the end of the scan, any issues found will be listed as:
Red (High) – This means you should take immediate action since your device is compromised.
Orange (Medium) â Review the issue as it could put your device at risk.
Green (All clear) â No issues were detected.
If threats are detected, you will have two options:
Remove – Completely eliminates the threat from your device.
Ignore – This will ignore the threat now and in future scans. You can âun-ignoreâ by tapping on Ignored Issues from the scan results page.
When finished, go back to the dashboard. Details of the scan will appear under the Scan button.
In todayâs digital world, most people always carry their smartphones. Although GPS technology has advantages to smartphone users, it has caused a significant decrease in privacy. Private and public organizations can collect and use this information for various purposes.
Some argue that the collection of GPS location information leads to abuse and amounts to an invasion of privacy. There are a lot of dangers to this. For example, there have been cases of account takeover emanating from GPS tracking.
Unfortunately, no clear and uniform legal standards control who can collect and use this information.
How To Be Secure And Get The Benefits
The easiest way to secure your smartphone from GPS tracking is to:
Constantly monitor apps that have location permission enabled.
If any apps don’t require GPS to perform, turn the permission off or uninstall them.
Never allow GPS location for sketchy apps.
Ensure your OS is up to date. This will ensure your iOS or Android security is up to date.
Alternatively, you can factory reset your smartphone and reinstall apps that you trust.
You can also enlist the help of a third-party tool such as Certo, Incognito, and Kaspersky Antivirus to help keep your phone secure from GPS tracking.
Some proponents recommend the use of GPS jammers to conceal location. However, this is not recommended and is illegal in some states.
As you can see, it can be pretty easy for your phoneâs GPS technology to work against you. But for most people, the benefits outweigh the risks, and you may have good reason to want the tracking enabled on your phone.
The great thing with technology is that you can follow steps to get the desired result.
I hope you learned how to detect GPS tracking on your cell phone. Leave us a comment below.
Note: This was initially published in March 2021, but has been updated for freshness and accuracy.
![Security Tips To Protect Your Home From Burglary [Infographics]](https://secureblitz.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Security-Tips-To-Protect-Your-Home-From-Burglary-Infographics-768x345.png "Security Tips To Protect Your Home From Burglary [Infographics]")
