Home Blog Page 64

Tips & Reasons Why You Should Compress Your PDF Through GogoPDF

Are you looking for a tool to compress your massive PDF file to a smaller one? If so, you have come to the right place. The service provider for a PDF compressor tool recommended to you is the Gogo PDFs Compress PDF tool. It gets the job done efficiently within seconds! If you want to know more about this tool, keep on scrolling. 

Why compress PDF files?

Before we discuss why you should compress PDF online with GogoPDF, let us examine why you need to compress your files. Everyone doesn’t need to shorten their files, which only applies to people who wish to do this process.

The primary purpose of compressing your PDF files is to reduce the size of your large files to a smaller version so you can send them more efficiently through email or the messaging features of your social media accounts. Large files are challenging and impossible to send via email or social media.

You could also do this process if you wish to save more space on your device, especially if you keep many large PDF files. As a heads up, you may not be able to convert them back to the original state once you have compressed the PDF files, so make sure you are okay with this or have saved a backup file somewhere.

Why compress with GogoPDF?

Tips & Reasons Why You Should Compress Your PDF Through GogoPDF

Now, let’s discuss why we recommend GogoPDF so much. In this era of technology, we can quickly look them up through a search engine like Google to look for something. Type in “compress PDF tool” or anything like that, and hundreds of thousands of results will appear on your screen.

Carelessly picking random compressor tools is not wise and safe, as they could harm you. Some applications or websites will entice you with their “free to use” tools when inaccessible and force you to subscribe to their services and pay a fortune.

Although GogoPDF is free to use these tools, they have ensured that their system is accessible to everyone and will not require people to spend a single penny on their services. You will not be required to register an account to access it. Their registration and subscription services are not yet available but will be offered to everyone willing to try.

Privacy Policy

It would be best to consider the website’s security and the security of your data or personal information. Some websites will appear “secure” but will steal your information once you access their tools. 

Even if the website does not secretly steal your data, its security might be an issue, too, since some websites do not have a system to prevent hackers from stealing their client’s data and information.

With GogoPDF, they have ensured that their system is safe and secure for everyone as their client, and their security is their priority. After you finish compressing your PDF file or processing a document using their system, GogoPDF will automatically delete your file from their system after an hour.

This method helps clients who forget things, like deleting the file from their server. If you wish to learn more about their privacy policy, you can check their website. 

How to use their compressed PDF tool

How to use their compressed PDF tool

Before you think of anything, compressing PDF files is not some “professional work,” so you don’t have to worry about going through a challenging and complicated process. You will only need a few moments and a few clicks or taps.

First, go to their website, look for the “Compress” or “Compress PDF” tool, and click it. You will be redirected to their website’s device, and you will immediately see this compressed PDF tool and the instructions below it.

They have simplified and made it easy to comprehend so their clients can easily follow the four easy steps. The first step in compressing your PDF file is to locate or navigate the file you wish to compress.

You may pick to drag them from your folder, click “Select Files” and look for the file on your computer or device, or take the file from your Google Drive cloud storage or your Dropbox account.

After choosing your file, you only need to click the button, sit back, relax, and wait for the magic to happen. In just seconds, GogoPDF will start processing and compressing your file. After completing it, you may save the compressed file to your computer or share it as a URL.

Quality

When compressing PDF files, the problem you could face is that your file’s quality might be compromised, mainly if it contains media or images. You might have to go through complicated steps to ensure your PDF quality is retained or high.

An example of what you will need to do is separate your media, and you will need to learn how to compress images as well; we are sure that everyone wants to go through a less complicated process. With GogoPDF, this problem will not occur to you as they have ensured that your compressed PDF will have a high-quality output.

Free vs. Paid

Most people debate which option they should choose; in reality, it doesn’t matter which choice you make. Whether it is paid or free, it will matter if their website will respect your privacy and will meet your desires. Paid subscriptions, though, may give you way better assistance on your transactions. 

Other Features

GogoPDF is not only all about compressing PDF files since it offers a lot more services, such as converting files, like Word documents or Excel Spreadsheets, from or to a PDF file format, splitting and merging PDF files, protecting PDFs, and so much more. Head to their website to know more.

Takeaway

GogoPDF thinks of what they can gain from their clients and what services and assistance they can offer them. We hope we have helped you figure out what it means to compress PDF files and convert them.


USEFUL POSTS

10 Most Common Cyber Threats [MUST READ]

This post will show you the 10 most common cyber threats.

The usage of the internet has become a widespread phenomenon in recent times. Though the benefits of the internet are countless, it has also brought along many problems with itself. Among many other issues with internet usage, the most common problem is the constant cyber threats that individuals and businesses face.

A well-designed cyber-attack can crumble the entire infrastructure of a business. It can badly impact the business’s reputation and operations.

These threats affect businesses and individuals and can ruin your computer system. This is why it is essential for anyone who uses the internet to have knowledge of common cyber threats and how to avoid them.

Here are the ten most common cyber threats that are prevalent today.

10 Most Common Cyber Threats

  1. Malware

Malware stands for “malicious software”. It is one of the most common attacks affecting users. A malware attack occurs when cyber attackers create harmful software to infect its target systems.

When the user visits a particular website, opens a malware-infected file, or clicks a link, the malware gets installed into their system. It can then be used for hacking into a database, causing a privacy breach, or gathering critical business information.

Malware can be of different types, and the most common are viruses, ransomware, spyware, worms, and Trojan horses. The key to protecting yourself against malware is never downloading suspicious files and regularly installing an anti-malware program into your system.

Phishing Attacks

  1. Phishing Attacks

Phishing attacks are the second most common type of cyber-attacks. Also known as a phishing scam, it works by putting bait for the user and infecting their system. A scammer sends a link, usually via email, and tricks the user into clicking the link. Once the user clicks on a phishing link, their system gets compromised.

Spear phishing is a specific phishing scam where the user studies their victim before targeting them and sends them personalized messages that seem to be from relevant and trusted sources. It is for this reason that spear-phishing attacks are usually very successful.

The best way to avoid phishing attacks is to educate your employees about different phishing techniques and how to recognize them. They should know the best practices of staying vigilant before opening an email. Always hover over the link to check the URL before trying to open it.

READ ALSO: 6 Most Common Web Security Vulnerabilities (And How To Tackle Them)

  1. Eavesdropping Attack

Eavesdropping attacks are exactly what they sound like. In an eavesdropping attack, the attacker spies on the system’s traffic to get access to sensitive information like passwords and credit card numbers. There are two types of eavesdropping attacks.

In Passive eavesdropping, the hacker gets useful information by acquiring data from a system’s network. In active eavesdropping, a hacker disguises themself as a relevant person and extracts essential information.

Data encryption is one of the most important ways to protect yourself from an eavesdropping attack.

  1. SQL Injections

SQL injections are carried out on systems that use SQL databases. An SQL database is typically coding statements implemented to HTML form through a webpage.

An SQL injection works by inserting commands inside the code and modifying it to run various operations that may not necessarily be in the business’s best interest.

By getting complete control, the hacker can dictate how the system will operate according to them. Hence, a successful SQL injection can result in devastating results for a business.

Use strong codes and strengthen your database’s permission model to protect your system from SQL injection attacks.

READ ALSO: Cyber Threats: How to Secure your Computer against Cyber Threats

  1. Denial of Service (DoS) and Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) Attacks

These attacks aim to flood the network with irregular traffic to the extent that it stops providing any service.

It does not end here; instead, when the victim is looking for a way to come out of the issue, the cyber attacker takes control of other systems to get access to confidential data or the company’s financial accounts.

Even if gaining information access is not the attacker’s motive, a DoS attack can severely blow an organization’s reputation and cause severe financial losses when its service goes down. To prevent this threat, it’s imperative to deploy an effective DDoS monitoring tool.

  1. Brute-Force Attack

As the name suggests, in a brute-force attack, cybercriminals access a user’s system by force.

They use different password combinations to gain a system’s access. Password combinations are derived by using the victim’s date of birth, hobbies, job, workplace, or any other words they can use as their password.

Organizations must implement a lockout policy to prevent a brute-force attack. This means that after several unsuccessful user attempts, the system locks the account temporarily and only reopens after a specific time when accessed by the actual owner.

  1. Artificial Intelligence Attack

Artificial Intelligence Attack

The increased usage of artificial intelligence technology in digital marketing also has a downside.

This type of cyber-attack uses sophisticated machinery to gain access to a system and exploit vulnerabilities in the system.

READ ALSO: 10 Most Secure Operating Systems (#9 Is Our Favourite)

  1. Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) Attacks

A Man-in-the-Middle attack occurs when an attacker quietly places themselves between a server and a client.

MitM attacks can take place in many ways, the most common of which are IP Spoofing, Hijacking, and Replay. The hacker or the middleman intercepts the connection between two parties and communicates with them from both ends, making them believe that they are communicating.

While pretending to be a trusted source, hackers can extract confidential information from the other party or communicate misinformation.

  1. Cross-Site Scripting

A cross-site scripting or XXS attack works similar to SQL injections but instead of extracting data from the database, they infect the person visiting the domain.

These attacks aim to extract customer’s information, such as bank or credit card details, and cause damage to customer loyalty and business reputation in the long run.

  1. Cryptojacking

Cryptocurrency is now an acceptable way of carrying out financial transactions for many. Cryptojacking, also known as malicious crypto mining, is an emerging threat in which a hacker uses a victim’s mobile device or computer’s resources to “mine” cryptocurrency without their knowledge or consent.

Instead of using dedicated servers for mining, they use other systems’ resources to mine currency, slowing down the victim’s device.

It’s not easy to determine whether your device is under a crypto-jacking attack. The best way to prevent it from happening is to block JavaScript in your browser when you don’t require its functionality. Likewise, you can use programs like Miner Block or No Coin to block any mining activity in common browsers.

READ ALSO: What Are Phishing Scams And How You Can Avoid Them?

Navigating the Digital Landscape: FAQs About Common Cyber Threats

The ever-evolving world of cybersecurity comes with a constant barrage of threats. Here are some FAQs to help you understand the most common dangers lurking online:

What are the most common cyber threats?

Several cyber threats plague individuals and organizations alike. Here are some of the most widespread:

  • Phishing: Deceptive emails or messages designed to trick you into revealing personal information, clicking on malicious links, or downloading malware.
  • Malware: Malicious software that can infect your device, steal data, disrupt operations, or hold your information hostage (ransomware).
  • Social Engineering: Manipulation tactics used to trick you into compromising security measures or granting access to systems or data.
  • Denial-of-Service (DoS) Attacks: Overwhelming a website or server with traffic to render it inaccessible to legitimate users.
  • Password Attacks: Techniques to guess or crack your passwords, allowing unauthorized access to accounts.
  • Man-in-the-Middle Attacks: Intercepting communication between your device and another source (e.g., Wi-Fi network) to steal data.
  • Zero-Day Attacks: Exploiting previously unknown vulnerabilities in software before a patch is available.

What is the #1 cybersecurity threat today?

Identifying a single “number one” threat is challenging as the landscape keeps shifting. Phishing and social engineering remain prevalent due to their effectiveness in exploiting human vulnerabilities. Ransomware attacks are also a primary concern, causing significant disruption and financial losses.

What can I do to protect myself?

Here are some essential cybersecurity practices to safeguard yourself:

  • Be cautious with emails and links: Don’t click on suspicious links or attachments; be wary of unsolicited emails, even if they appear to come from legitimate sources.
  • Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for added security.
  • Keep your software updated: Regularly update your operating system, web browser, and other applications to patch security vulnerabilities.
  • Be mindful of public Wi-Fi: Avoid accessing sensitive information on unsecured networks.
  • Back up your data: Regularly back up your important files to a separate storage device in case of a cyberattack or failure.
  • Be selective about what information you share online: Limit the personal information you share on social media and other public platforms.

Understanding these common threats and taking steps to protect yourself can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to a cyberattack.

Conclusion

In an online threat landscape that is progressively changing daily, it’s a full-time job to stay safe from the latest menaces.

It’s always a good choice for businesses to invest in a complete cybersecurity solution that can save them from potential attacks, protect against more significant financial losses, and ensure that your computer resources are yours alone.


SUGGESTED READINGS

How To Calculate Your Short-Term Vacation Rental Cash Flow

Why should every short-term rental owner use a rental property profitability calculator? Learn more about how to gauge the profitability of your business

Investors are turning towards buy-and-hold strategies to offset current real estate high prices, and for good reason—this allows them to recoup as much lost money as possible (if not all) by renting out their properties.

The most popular investment option is offering short-term rentals.

The savviest real estate investors today are looking for just the right vacation rental properties. However, how can you tell if an investment is worth your time and money?

The answer is cash flow calculation.

For an investor in the short-term rental industry, a property investment calculator is an invaluable tool for assessing profitability performance.

READ ALSO: Phone Photography: Photography Tips On The Phone

Why Is It Important To Calculate Rental Cash Flow?

One of the best things you can enjoy from investing in short-term rentals is good cash flow.

A positive cash flow fosters wealth growth, giving you a chance to achieve the financial freedom you’ve been yearning for.

Understanding cash flow

When looking at any real estate investment opportunity, you must examine income and expenses to determine profitability and forecast performance. With these key elements, you will understand the cash flow a property will generate.

Cash flow is the profit you gain after collecting income, paying operating expenses, and putting aside money for future repairs. Cash flow is the main lever for increasing passive income for the buy-and-hold real estate investor.

Why should you always aim for a positive cash flow?

The aim of investing in short-term rentals is to earn more money than you are spending each month. Proper strategies and systems convert cash flow into a dependable passive income stream. Income comes in weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annually without working at a typical nine-to-five job.

What else can positive cash flow do for you?

  • It creates more reinvestment opportunities to grow your financial well-being. 
  • It helps create a larger savings reserve that protects you against unexpected life expenses, like medical bills and property maintenance.
  • It lets you spend more time with family and friends and focus on passion projects or personal growth.

How Much Cash Flow Should Your Vacation Rental Make?

How Much Cash Flow Should Your Vacation Rental Make

When buying a short-term vacation home purely as a cash-flow real estate investment, you should target an annual income of about 10 to 12 percent of the home’s price. You may not be within the same range if you intend to use it often for personal reasons. Clearly, the more you stay at the property, the less revenue it would make.

Renting out your second home as a short-term rental generates better cash flow than renting out a single room or sporadically.

However, several things can affect your cash-flow, such as:

Vacancy rate

Short-term rentals are subject to seasonal fluctuations.

Vacation rentals often accommodate travelers at a specific time of year—whether in summer, winter, or any season. Rentals on the beach are likely to be in high demand during peak seasons, ranging from spring to summer. Mountain cabins are highly sought after during colder seasons and are popular because of their proximity to ski resorts.

So, your short-term rental should be associated with a busy season. However, there are always low seasons. This is where you will find one of the trickiest financial aspects of running a vacation rental property: vacancies.

Expect your property to be vacant for a longer period during these seasons. And ignoring such inconsistencies can harm your cash flow. So, you need to develop strategies to still attract guests, such as offering lower prices or adding more inclusions to your services.

Peak season rates

After each low season, there is a peak season that allows you to tip the scale in your favor.

Peak seasons represent the pinnacle of demand for your short-term rental. When demand rises, you can increase your rental rates, too. This means you can charge a premium for services you offer at the right time of the year, especially if your neighborhood is in high demand.

A well-positioned short-term rental may charge as much as a month’s mortgage in a week. So, while you need to account for vacancies during cash flow calculation, you do not lose anything. Busy seasons help pick up the slack!

Fees and other expenses

Pay attention to what you expect to make on a prospective short-term rental deal. Plus, consider the expenses that go into owning that property.

Owning a vacation rental is basically synonymous with having fees and expenses. However, your chosen property can offset expenses with an impressive cash flow.

Some expenses that go into running a vacation rental property and affect the figures you get from a property investment calculator include property management fees, homeowners association (HOA) fees, and mortgage payments.

Comparable properties

Also known as competition, comparable properties are similar rentals close to yours. Regardless, they play a critical role in determining the cash flow performance of your real estate investment. They can gauge how much return on investment (ROI) to expect from your property.

Assessing similar properties also helps you determine how much rent you can charge. You risk losing guests if you charge more than a comparable rental nearby. However, you can always include helpful features, such as a network optimized for VoIP, to justify higher rates.

After all, why would you reduce your cash flow by charging cheaper?

READ ALSO: Property Maintenance Essentials: Keeping Your Rental in Top Shape

How To Calculate Vacation Rental Cash Flow

How to Calculate Vacation Rental Cash Flow

The basic formula is:

Total Income minus Total Expenses = Cash Flow

The calculation is deceptively simple, but much more is required to predict the income and expenses going into short-term rental properties.

Step 1: Calculate gross income.

This step involves getting the income that the property generates annually.

Gross Potential Rent plus Other Income Sources minus Vacancy Rate = Gross Income

The gross potential rent is your nightly rate multiplied by the average nights you think the property will be occupied monthly.

Other income sources include pet fees, parking, and utility reimbursements.

The vacancy rate is when there are no guests because of a low season or a renovation project.

Step 2: Calculate gross expenses.

All rental properties come with several recurring expenses. While such costs are different for each property, the most common are:

  • Insurance
  • HOA and Property Owners Association (POA) fees
  • Repairs and maintenance
  • Seasonal expenses, such as updates to the central air-conditioning unit and snow removal
  • Marketing expenses
  • Utility expenses, such as sewer maintenance, gas, water, electricity, and waste management
  • Business licenses
  • Other expenses for the daily running of the business

Step 3: Get the net operating income (NOI).

Estimate your short-term property’s profitability using the simple formula below.

Gross Income minus Gross Expenses = NOI

NOI tells you how much income is left over after paying for everyday short-term rental expenses. Calculating how much is available to pay equity partners and lenders is critical.

However, a critical component is still missing!

The missing factor is capital expenditures (CapEx). These are expenses that occur less frequently, including the replacement of significant property components like the roof. While calculating your cash flow, account for the money you will put into purchasing big-ticket items, like HVAC and a home alarm system.

The best short-term rental investor assigns about five percent of their income to cover unexpected small and large costs. The amount also ensures you are ready for emergency major repair jobs. Be sure to set the percentage depending on the current condition of your property.

NOI minus CapEx Funds = Adjusted NOI

Step 4: Calculate cash flow before taxes.

Subtract the amount you will spend on your mortgage payment, interest, and principal from the adjusted NOI. Add to the resulting amount the loans you may have taken to cover capital improvements to your property. Remember to include any interests from investments or loans made on behalf of the property.

Adjusted NOI minus Debt Servicing plus Loan Proceeds plus Interest Earned on Loans = Cash Flow Before Taxes (CFBT)

Step 5: Compute the after-tax cash flow.

CFBT is a taxable income. Multiply it by your marginal tax bracket to determine if there is an additional tax or if you would be saving money on taxes.

CFBT multiplied by Tax Bracket Percentage = After-Tax Cash Flow

If the calculations seem mind-boggling, a rental profitability calculator can help.

READ ALSO: How To Rent A Cheap Car In Various Countries

Using A Rental Property Return Calculator

Property investment calculators, such as the rental property calculator at theshorttermshop.com, are useful tools for both beginners and professional real estate investors. They make it easy for you to analyze the numbers you input to test the profitability of your short-term rental.

To use a rental property return calculator, you only input basic information, such as your average daily rate, monthly operating expenses, and financing costs.

The calculator then generates critical metrics to help you determine whether your short-term rental is performing well. Metrics available on a free rental property calculator typically include:

  • Cap rate
  • Cash on cash return
  • Net annual cash flow

A rental property profitability calculator is a must-have tool if you are interested in real estate investments. Whether you are starting your short-term rental journey or are a seasoned investor, using this calculator is always an intelligent decision.

To Sum Up

Learning how to calculate cash flow and use a property investment calculator is critical to avoid costly errors. Before you increase rent and get ahead of the competition, you must know your cash flow. This way, you can take the proper steps toward financial success.

Adopting tech in your business is hard, so you will need a lot of advice along the way. SecureBlitz curates the latest tips, news, and information on technology, making it an excellent source of opinions that you can use for business.


CHECK OUT:

5 Ways To Identify Phishing Or Fake Websites

This post will show you 5 ways to identify phishing or fake websites.

One of the most significant transformations that the business world has witnessed (especially during the COVID-19 era) is the liberal advancements in eCommerce. An overwhelming population worldwide is now acquainted with eCommerce features, and most people have resolved to conduct their transactions online.

According to Statista, it is estimated that there will be over 300 million online shoppers in the US alone by 2023. Advancements have aided the increased overreliance on eCommerce in web and internet technology. 

Several risks come with increased overreliance on eCommerce and a rapid increase in websites. One of the threats that are destroying the internet world is fake websites (sometimes referred to as phishing websites).

Phishing websites have become increasingly prevalent. They generate billions of dollars in fraudulent revenues for their owners at the expense of unwary victims.

The websites capitalize on proper website designs and appearances, making it almost impossible for users to identify them as fake websites. 

5 Ways To Identify Phishing Or Fake Websites

Website designers and IT experts have taken a few steps to try to prosecute the menaces brought about by fake websites. They have come up with automated detection systems that detect illegitimate websites.

However, most of these automated detection systems have proved ineffective as they are susceptible to several obfuscation techniques that fraudsters employ.

As a result, these systems’ fake website detection capabilities and performances are highly inefficient. Detecting fake websites, therefore, remains an achievable endeavor for Hornet’s hornet.

In this article, I propose some of the five most effective methods that you can use to detect fake websites.

READ ALSO: What Is A Fake Antivirus? Overview And How To Spot Them

5 Ways To Identify Phishing Or Fake Websites

1. Review the URL

The first vital issue you should look for in your quest to detect legitimate websites is the website’s website. There are several address bar-based features that you should be looking out for.

To begin with, here is the URL of the website. Legitimate website owners will dearly value the security of their clients and implement measures to ensure this is achieved. The SSL certificate ensures that their clients’ connections and servers remain encrypted and out of reach by cyber criminals.

Review the URL

 On the other hand, fake websites will not mind their data security and will see no need to install an SSL certificate. The question, therefore, is: how do you know whether or not a website has the certificate? The answer to that lies in the URL of the website in question.

If the website’s awebsite’sgins with HTTPS, you can be sure that the website is encrypted. If, on the other hand, the URL of the website starts with HTTP, then you have to be wary. You should note that not all HTTP websites are fake, but most are. 74% of phishing websites use the HTTPS protocol this is according to Research from the Anti-Phishing Working Group (APWG)

Still, on the address bar, you should also check on the availability of a padlock symbol. A secure website will display a small padlock next to the web address. The feature also allows you to find out more details about the website.

You can click on the padlock symbol to learn more about the website. The availability of HTTPS does not guarantee that the website is secure and accurate, but it is a great starting point for detecting a website’s website’s

2. Check the Reviews

Product reviews and product ratings have proved to be valuable tools that support consumer buying decisions.

The reviews and ratings are also of great essence to the eCommerce stores as they help them build a reputable and trustworthy brand on the online market. Most reliable and legitimate websites will offer textual reviews of quantitative ratings or a blend of the two. 

Check the Reviews

Website reviews are essential information sources for anyone who wants to establish the legitimacy of a website. The reviews are generated by previous clients who have interacted with the websites and know more about the website.

Previous clients who have had a wonderful experience with the website will state that in the reviews. Clients who have had a bad experience while interacting with the website will also state that in the reviews. Such a case should be a warning signal that the website could be fake and not what it says.  You had better stay safe by not interacting with the website if you encounter such reviews. 

It is also worth mentioning that some website owners will manipulate the reviews and customer feedback section so that their website looks legit.

If you are not 100% confident with the reviews, you do no need to share your confidential information with the website. It would help if you also were wary about websites that do not have reviews. There might be a reason as to why the website is hiding the reviews. 

Finally, several popular review websites exist that you can visit to find out about the user experiences, scam warnings, and customer service quality. The websites include:

  • Tripadvisor
  • Trustpilot
  • Review center

READ ALSO: How To Secure Your Magento Website

3. Check Content-Type

Check Content-Type

Paying keen attention to how the website content is written could help you detect fake websites. Every computer has a simple dictionary that will help the content creator develop grammatically correct and spelling free content.

Additionally, every web browser is built with a spell checker tool; this leaves a website owner without an excuse for creating poorly written content. The presence of errors in content should raise eyebrows. It could be that the content was hastily written with the sole intent of stealing money from unsuspecting website visitors. 

If a website has grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and broken English, there is a high chance that the website could be fake. No reputable website will ever post poorly written content.

A legitimate website will invest heavily in content creation. I advise you not to share your information with a website that has poorly written content. It could be a fake one. 

4. Use Online Phishing Scanners

Use Online Phishing Scanners

There are various phishing detection tools that you can use to detect fake websites. The tools will allow you to scan a website and determine if the website and its content are genuine.

No single tool has been able to give a definitive answer. Therefore, using multiple tools to build a picture is essential. The tools are explained below.

  • The AVG Threat Labs The tool allows you to type in the URL of the website you want to visit. You will then get an instant appraisal of the website’s security. The tool will detect any malware and viruses and report them to you. The presence of malware and viruses is enough to signal that the website could be fake or compromised, so you should stay away from it. 
  • IsItHacked– This tool will scan a website to detect any possibility that the website might be a phishing threat. It checks the link cloaking, codes, and dubious link formatting. It is, hence, a great tool that you can use to detect fake websites.
  • MXToolbox– This tool checks various blacklists to identify if a website is in any of them. If the website you are about to visit appears here, there is a high chance that the website has been reported as a phishing or scam website. The best thing to do is to avoid visiting the website. 
  • PhishTank- This website contains all the crowdsourced files from the compromised websites on the internet. It also includes a list of websites set up to scam and steal information from unsuspecting victims. Once you have submitted a website you wish to verify, you can track the website through a PhishTank account. 

5. Check the Terms and Conditions of the Website

Check the Terms and Condition of the Website

Most genuine websites will have real terms and conditions. For instance, a legitimate eCommerce website will have a generous refund policy. If a website offers products, yet you cannot find its terms and conditions section, it is possible that the website cannot be trusted.

If the eCommerce store explicitly excludes any possibility of a product refund, then you better not engage with such a website. You should also check the warranties for the commodities sold by the merchant. If no warranties are provided, then there is a chance that the website is selling counterfeit products. 

Conclusion

The number of fake and phishing websites has skyrocketed, especially recently. The overreliance on the internet to conduct life’s actilactivities significant population worldwide has contributed a big deal to this rot.

Scammers are taking advantage of the increased number of internet users and creating a fake website to scam unsuspecting users. Internet users and website visitors have to be extra vigilant now.

They should know how to detect counterfeit websites and stay safe from phishing attack. This article explains five essential tips for website visitors to identify fake or phishing websites. The knowledge will help you stay safe from phishing scams.


SUGGESTED READINGS

Top 5 DDoS Attack Challenges For Telecom Companies

0

This post will expose the top 5 DDoS attack challenges for Telecom companies.

Today’s world runs on the Internet. From traffic control systems to shopping, banking, transaction processing, and communication — without the worldwide web, many activities we take for granted would be impossible, and many vital services would fail.

Similarly to a cellular network or radio, the Internet is a communication protocol used by global communication companies to serve corporate and private consumers. Without them, the internet would stop working. These companies are prime targets for attacks these days.  

The DDoS Threat

The DDoS Threat

DDoS or Distributed Denial of Service, is a cyber-attack where the ill-wisher overloads the network with bot traffic and renders online resources unavailable to visitors. When a DDoS attack targets a singular website or online service, that resource becomes disabled and appears to visitors as a never-loading webpage.

However, if an attack instead targets a network provider and overloads its defense mechanism, all services that rely on that network become simultaneously unavailable.

Today, the number of attacks is on the rise. In 2020, cybersecurity experts recorded over 10 million DDoS attacks. A 15% increase from the already mind-boggling 8.5 million recorded in 2019. Experts say that in 2021, this number will increase further.

The need for DDoS protection is dire, and not only because of increasing attack volume. In 2019, one cybersecurity research surveyed over 320 telecom companies to assess the readiness of the communication industry to defend against DDoS.

The research revealed that while 85% of respondents recorded a steady or increasing rate of attacks, only 34% evaluated their defenses as adequately or comprehensively effective. Not a good outlook.

READ ALSO: Top 5 Cybersecurity Threats That eCommerce Websites Should Watch Out For

The Challenges

Constantly evolving DDoS attacks are outpacing the defense sector, and many companies have yet to take the threat seriously and invest in robust DDoS protection.

Here are the main DDoS attack challenges that communication — and other — companies face in the battle against DDoS. 

1. Diversity and complexity of attacks

Cybersecurity researchers classify up to 35 different types of DDoS attacks. ICMP (Ping) Flood, SYN Flood, HTTP Flood, Slowloris, and Zero-day DDoS Attacks are just a few examples from a long list. Each requires a tailored defense.

2. The need for manual prevention

Not all attacks can be mitigated on autopilot. Sometimes, trained professionals are required to intervene. However, many companies today lack the necessary in-house expertise. For example, 60% of companies in Britain surveyed by the CSO reported understuffed cyber-security departments.

3. Lack of actionable intelligence

The intelligence, research, and analytics in cybersecurity is a sector that is yet to mature fully. As of today, experts note that intelligence, particularly on DDoS attacks, is scattered and disconnected from practical prevention solutions.

Worse yet, much false or contradicting information floats around on the internet, further complicating prevention.

4. Cost prohibitive defenses

While most effective when given lots of free bandwidth, on-site DDoS mitigation solutions prove to be too costly for many companies due to the sheer server computing power required.

As a result, companies that don’t invest in on-site protection nor seek out a robust cloud-based alternative remain under-prepared to mitigate larger attacks. 

5. Lack of granular control for agile responses

The combination of the above challenges leads to the lack of readiness to quickly adapt and respond to constantly evolving and changing DDoS attacks.

READ ALSO: Best VPN for Gaming You Should Consider

How To Get Effective Protection Against Anonymous DDoS Attack

Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attacks, particularly those launched by anonymous groups, can cripple your online presence and inflict significant damage. Here’s a comprehensive guide on safeguarding your system against such attacks:

Understanding the Threat

Anonymous DDoS attacks often involve overwhelming your system with massive amounts of traffic from various sources, making it unavailable to legitimate users. These attacks can target websites, online services, or even entire networks.

Defense Strategies

  • Strengthen Your Infrastructure: Invest in a robust and scalable server infrastructure that can handle high traffic volumes. Consider cloud-based solutions offering built-in DDoS mitigation features.
  • Security Services: Partner with a reputable security service provider with expertise in DDoS mitigation. These providers offer real-time traffic monitoring, filtering, and rerouting capabilities to neutralize DDoS attacks.
  • Traffic Filtering: Implement robust traffic filtering mechanisms to identify and block suspicious incoming traffic patterns.
  • Rate Limiting: Set limits on the number of requests a single IP address can send within a specific timeframe. This can help prevent a single source from overwhelming your system.
  • Web Application Firewalls (WAFs): Deploy a WAF to filter incoming traffic and block malicious requests targeting vulnerabilities in your web applications.
  • Backups and Redundancy: Maintain regular backups of your data and implement redundancy measures for critical systems. This ensures minimal disruption in case of an attack. Use an AntivirusWithVPN solution.

Additional Considerations:

  • Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated on the latest DDoS attack trends and mitigation strategies.
  • Incident Response Plan: Develop a comprehensive incident response plan outlining steps to take if a DDoS attack occurs. This plan should include communication protocols, team roles, and recovery procedures.
  • Vulnerability Management: Regularly scan your systems for vulnerabilities and patch them promptly. Unpatched vulnerabilities can serve as entry points for DDoS attacks.
  • Law Enforcement: If you suspect a targeted DDoS attack, consider reporting it to law enforcement agencies for investigation.

Conclusion: Beyond Anonymous Attacks

While these strategies address anonymous DDoS attacks specifically, they also provide a strong foundation for overall security against various cyber threats.

Adopting a multi-layered approach can significantly enhance your system’s resilience against a wide range of malicious activities.

Note: This was initially published in March 2021, but has been updated for freshness and accuracy.


INTERESTING READS

How Online Gambling Sites Use Technology To Ensure Player Security

This post will show how online gambling sites use technology to ensure player security.

More than 2,800 online casinos are operating across the world. This makes the industry extremely competitive. It also means that it’s a prime target for cyber-attacks. This is a major concern for players, so casinos that want to lead the way must pay close attention to the security of their operations.

As confirmed in an in-house data analysis made by cybersecurity experts, players look for security when choosing a casino.

With this in mind, let’s take a closer look at how serious the security threat is and how online casino brands are using technology to reduce the risks. 

READ ALSO: Web Security Guide: Keeping Your Website Safe

How Big Is The Security Risk To Online Casinos?

How Big Is The Security Risk To Online Casinos?

As many as 30,000 websites are hacked every day, across the globe. So, it’s clear that cyber-security is a major issue across all industries. This is no different for online casinos, especially given the growing number of these sites online.

This was highlighted earlier this year when ZDNet reported the news of Chinese hackers targeting betting sites in Southeast Asia.

The group began its activities in the summer of 2019 and interfered with the security of several websites in the industry.

In addition to the activities in Southeast Asia, there were rumors that the hackers were also active in Europe and the Middle East. This is just one example of how big the threat is. For this reason, online casinos are embracing technology to remain secure.

READ ALSO: Top 5 Cybersecurity Breaches In Online Gambling Industry

The Technology Used To Keep Online Casinos Secure

Given the threat from cyber-criminals, it’s not surprising that online casinos are using technology to help them keep their websites secure. Let’s look at how three types of technology are being used.

1. Blockchain technology

Casinos were originally slow to use blockchain technology in their operations. However, since the retail industry started to embrace technology, online gambling sites have begun to follow suit.

Once the blockchain has been created, it cannot be changed using a string of numbers. This helps to protect it against hackers. Overall, blockchain’s decentralized and transparent nature makes it more difficult for a casino’s security to be compromised.

2. Cloudflare

The content delivery network (CDN) Cloudflare does not wish to disclose which online casino companies are using their platform, but we know, based on a /cdn-cgi/trace/, that online casinos commonly use Cloudflare. One of the main reasons for this is the security and performance services it provides.

This includes protection from distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks and the provision of a web application firewall (WAF). The security provision also includes IP Access Rules and Zone Lockdown. Having all these measures available in one place is a valuable benefit to online gambling sites that want to protect player security.

ALSO READ: 6 Best Website Security Platforms [Hacker-Proof LIST]

The Technology Used To Keep Online Casinos Secure

3. 128 and 256-bit encryption

These encryption methods turn players’ personal and financial information into strings of unbreakable code. This provides an extra level of security and is the same encryption that financial institutions use. Casino sites with encryption have https at the start of their website name.

READ ALSO: Do Casinos Need Cyber Security?

Keeping it Safe While You Play: Online Gambling Security FAQs

Online gambling can be exciting, but security is paramount. Here are some FAQs to shed light on how technology safeguards players in the online gambling world:

How secure are online casino games?

Keeping it Safe While You Play: Online Gambling Security FAQs

Reputable online gambling sites use various technologies to ensure game fairness and security:

  • Random Number Generators (RNGs): These are algorithms that produce unpredictable results, mimicking the randomness of physical games (dice rolls, card shuffles). Independent auditors regularly test RNGs to ensure fairness.
  • Encryption: Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) encryption scrambles data transmitted between your device and the casino server. This protects your sensitive information like login credentials and financial transactions.

How do online casinos prevent cheating?

Online casinos employ several measures to deter cheating:

  • Account verification: Most sites require ID verification to help prevent underage gambling and money laundering.
  • Game monitoring: Sophisticated software can detect suspicious betting patterns that might indicate cheating.
  • Security protocols: Firewalls and intrusion detection systems safeguard the casino’s servers from unauthorized access.

READ ALSO: Cybersecurity Tips For Gambling

How do I know if an online gambling site is secure?

Look for these signs of a secure online gambling site:

  • Licensing: The casino should be licensed by a reputable gambling authority.
  • HTTPS: The website URL should begin with “HTTPS” indicating a secure connection with encryption.
  • Third-party audits: Look for information about independent audits of the casino’s RNGs and payout percentages.
  • Positive player reviews: Research online reviews from other players to gauge the casino’s reputation.

What are the most secure payment methods when gambling online?

Here are some generally secure payment options for online gambling:

  • E-wallets: Services like PayPal or Skrill offer an extra layer of security as you don’t share your financial information directly with the casino.
  • Credit cards: Many reputable online casinos use secure payment gateways that encrypt your credit card details. However, be mindful of potential credit card fraud and use cards with good security features.

READ ALSO: Top 5 Ways Online Casinos Secure Their Customer Information

How are online payments secure?

Many online gambling sites utilize secure payment processors that adhere to industry standards like PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard). This helps protect your financial information during transactions.

A Final Word

As the online casino industry continues to grow, so will the number of cyber-criminals who want to attack related sites.

READ ALSO: Web Security Guide

This means that casinos will continue to be vigilant and use the latest technology to protect themselves and their players against the threat. Check out the 4 Benefits Of Mobile Casinos.


USEFUL POSTS

Top 4 Benefits Of Easy Loans

Easy loans can be obtained from financial institutions in less than five minutes with a trouble-free, quick application process.

There are many situations in which loans become necessary to meet any emergency situation, like a sudden hospitalization or any catastrophic event. You can also get this loan to pay the bill to your car mechanic all at once, pay your child’s college fee, or clear any unforeseen bill.

Every person over 18, who receives regular earnings, can give an email address and contact number, and has an internet connection is eligible to apply for this loan.

As we all know we should save an emergency fund but not everyone can do this as they have to meet their daily living expenses. These expenses make it hard for them to save.

So, to meet any crisis, they can simply get easy loans. Many fringe benefits can be availed from easy loans.

Benefits Of Easy Loans

1. Online Application

The application process to apply for these loans is online so you don’t have to rush to the bank and get yourself into the hazard of scanning and printing documents.

You only have to click the “Apply Now” option to get this loan. Simply apply online from wherever you want and whenever you desire.

Having an online application doesn’t mean that you can’t contact customer service In case of any query. Every bank that offers this loan also provides the best customer service operation for your comfort in case of any inquiry.

2. Easy Approval

approval for easy loans

Approval for easy loans doesn’t require an extensive procedure or time. It’s is easily approved by the banks who offer it.

In fact, you can also avail the benefit that you can get cash on the same day on which you’ve applied for a loan. Because of this, you can comfortably meet all of your emergency expenses.

3. Speedy Process

Easy loans enable you to get loans with the speediest process of 9 to 10 minutes. As minimal documentation is required in this loan so, there is no complication in its grant.

You only have to fill in some of your personal detail, the reason for taking a loan, and how you’ll repay the loan.

READ ALSO: 5 Reasons Why Cybersecurity Is Important In Banking

4. Easy Loans for Bad Credit

Lenders understand the problem faced by many people in any emergency situation to overcome those situations.

Many banks that offer these loans don’t assess applications solely based on credit history. They just see your current spending practices and earnings in your account.

So, don’t let your bad credit history discourage you to apply for an easy loan.

READ ALSO: Online Loan Vs In-Person Loan: What’s The Most Secure?

Benefits Of Easy Loans

Easy Loans: FAQs Unveiling the Convenience and Potential Pitfalls

Easy loans can be tempting with their fast approval and seemingly hassle-free process. However, it’s crucial to understand both the benefits and drawbacks before considering this type of borrowing.

Benefits of Easy Loans

  • Quick Access to Cash: Easy loans are known for their streamlined application process and rapid approval, providing funds quicker than traditional loans. This can be helpful in emergencies or time-sensitive situations.
  • Convenience: The entire process, from application to approval, can often be completed online, eliminating the need for extensive paperwork or bank visits.
  • Lower Barrier to Entry: Easy loans might be easier to obtain for borrowers with lower credit scores who may not qualify for traditional loans.

Important Considerations

  • High-Interest Rates: Easy loans often come with significantly higher interest rates compared to conventional loans. This can significantly increase the overall cost of borrowing.
  • Shorter Repayment Terms: Easy loans typically have shorter repayment terms, meaning higher monthly payments that might strain your budget.
  • Debt Trap Potential: The ease of obtaining an easy loan can lead to a cycle of debt if not managed responsibly. It’s essential to only borrow what you can realistically afford to repay.

What is the benefit of using a loan?

Loans can be beneficial for various purposes such as consolidating high-interest debt (if the loan interest rate is lower), financing unexpected expenses (car repairs, medical bills), or making a major purchase (if you can’t afford it upfront and have a solid repayment plan).

How can I benefit from a loan?

You can benefit from a loan if you use it wisely and strategically. Consider factors like interest rates, repayment terms, and potential fees before committing. Only borrow what you need and have a clear plan for repayment to avoid getting into debt.

What is an easy loan?

Easy loans are typically unsecured personal loans with a simplified application process and fast approval. However, the ease of access often comes with a price tag in the form of high-interest rates and shorter repayment terms.

What happens if you get a loan and don’t use it?

There’s usually no penalty for not using a loan after it’s been approved. However, you might still be responsible for origination fees or other charges associated with processing the loan application. It’s best to confirm the terms and conditions with the lender before accepting the loan.

Conclusion

Easy loans are easy as they don’t require a tricky process of having so many formalities. If you’re looking for a simple and convenient method to avail loan facility then you should go to get this.

These loans provide you with enough money to meet your emergency expenses. But, always remember to take only the amount that you really need because you have to repay it.


USEFUL READINGS

GogoPDF: The Best Online Tool To Compress PDF

With GogoPDF, you can compress PDF files.

In essence, PDF files are advanced files that can be manipulated in many ways. If you have a large PDF file size, you can compress it to make it smaller to save space on your storage devices.

You can find a lot of PDF compressor tools when you google it, but before choosing one, you should consider whether your file will be secure.

Security is vital to the users since it may contain essential or private information from the users. GogoPDF indeed provides the best protection for users’ files. You will be assured that your file will stay confidential as they care about it. Aside from that, this website has a lot of tools to manage your PDF files.

Quick Steps On How To Compress PDF File

Quick Steps On How To Compress PDF File

The reason why you should compress PDF files is to save space in your storage. You might also need to compress it if you are having difficulty emailing your files because the size of it is significant.

GogoPDF will surely satisfy you with its easy-to-understand steps, and even when you use it for the first time, you will surely understand it fast.

  • Upon opening the compressor website, you will see a box allowing you to upload your file. Drag the PDF you want to compress, or you can click select files and find the PDF from your storage.
  • After you have uploaded or dragged the file, it will start the compression of your PDF.
  • Wait till the compression process ends. It will take a few minutes, depending on your PDF file size.
  • When the compression is finished, you can download and save the compressed file to your storage or share it with email or social media accounts.

GogoPDF compressor will surely guarantee that it is fast, and this tool can compress a scanned PDF, making the size as small as 144 dpi.

This site will make it easy to upload your PDF file, share it with any social media platforms, or publish it. You can save a lot of storage on your hard drive.

Other Features Of GogoPDF

Many browsers are used today, and the good thing about GogoPDF is that you will not need to install software to use it. You will need a compatible browser, especially with popular browsers like Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and more.

You can also use this on the most famous Mac, Windows, and Linux operating systems. You can hear anywhere about a data breach or a website hacked, but you don’t need to worry about your file’s identity since, after you use the PDF compressor tool, the file you used on their website will be deleted in an hour. 

Best Quality Output

GogoPDF can guarantee that after you have done the process of your file, the quality of it never changes. There are a lot of compressor tools that cannot do this kind of job.

That’s why you must be careful about that one and ensure it provides the best quality.d GogoPDF is the best choice for compressing PDF files.

Cloud System

People nowadays find the easiest way to access a particular tool online to make them comfortable in their jobs.

GogoPDF uses a cloud system because you can easily access this anytime, anywhere on the go, assuming you have an internet connection. Thus, you don’t need to install software to use it to do so and also don’t need to register since it’s free.

GogoPDF Tools

GogoPDF Tools

GogoPDF has a lot of tools for you to manipulate your PDF file. For example, a PDF file with many photos you want to save on your device can turn into a JPG file using this platform, and if you wish to turn it back into a PDF file, you can also do it. You can also merge different PDFs into one file and even split it if you want to.

It can convert Word, Excel, PPT, and PNG files. You can also edit your PDF file. You can add or remove pages.

If you want an original file to be secure, you can put a watermark on it or even protect your PDF. If you check the website, you can check all of these functions and find it very convenient.

Takeaway

GogoPDF is the safest and the most reliable tool that you can use to reduce the file size of your PDFs.

On top of this, you can also use Gogo PDFs and other famous features like the converter tool and password-protect your file. Visit GogoPDF and start processing your PDF needs in just seconds! 


RELATED POSTS

Home Security: Easy Ways To Burglar-proof Your House

Home security is essential; hence, we will show you easy ways to burglar-proof your house in this post.

Your house is more than just an address. It is a haven where you spend quality time with your family, building memories in its hallowed walls. It also contains your most precious belongings that you worked hard to acquire. As such, you must make it your top priority to protect your home from burglars.

Remember, you don’t need to spend a fortune to keep thieves at bay.

Brief Statistics On Burglary

Although locks are there, and they make you feel safe, they are insufficient for warding off criminals. It is so easy for them to pick their way through your locks. The proof is a burglary happens every 25.7 seconds, which shows just how vulnerable your home is.

Clearly, your lock cannot be your only method of home security. You need to level up and use other security solutions. You must create multiple defensive layers to make it difficult for thieves to infiltrate your home.

READ ALSO: Your Complete Home Security Guide

Protect Your Home From The Outside

Protect Your Home From The Outside

A recent study of criminal minds revealed that home burglars prefer a property that looks easy to enter. After all, they want to get in and out as fast as possible.

Spending too much time equates to a greater chance of getting caught. As the homeowner, it is your job to make your exterior secure to deter them from coming in to wreak havoc.

Amplify your protection by putting up a perimeter fence. Any unwanted person who steps over the line could be easily identified as a trespasser. Add outdoor security cameras to serve as your extended eyes, especially when you are not home. Most of all, install outdoor lights because thieves love dark places and shadows for hiding.

READ ALSO: How IT Professionals Can Monitor Remote Employees’ PCs Without Violating Privacy Laws

Stay In Touch With Your Neighbors

The good old neighborhood watch counts for something!

Being neighborly is not just nice, but it could save your life in a potential emergency. Getting to know your neighbors means connecting with caring individuals who can keep an eye out for your family and property. Of course, you should also do the same!

Your neighborhood brigade can alert the authorities if they see a stranger lurking nearby. When you go on vacation, you need trusted people to watch out for your best interest. Studies show that the crime rate is significantly lower in close-knit communities.

Be Careful Of Where You Leave Your Keys

Be Careful Of Where You Leave Your Keys

In movies, they document how homeowners leave the keys under the mat, inside the plant box, or on the door jamb. Your secret hiding places are no longer a secret anymore. Do yourself a favor, and don’t leave your spare keys anywhere. Most of all, don’t leave them just right outside your house.

In addition, be careful of your set of keys when you leave the house. It would be a nightmare to lose them because you’ll never feel at ease. If you can afford it, upgrading to a smart lock that requires biometrics or a passcode entry would be better. You can even lock and unlock this remotely as an added safety net.

READ ALSO: Full Review of SimpliSafe Home Security System

Deter Thieves With A Dog

A dog is often referred to as man’s best friend. If you have a canine companion in your home, you’ll deal with less burglary attempts. Fur babies possess a highly sensitive and keen sensory perception, with sharp smelling and hearing. They get antsy when they sense a stranger coming.

Dogs are also renowned for marking territories with their protective instincts kicking in. Should a questionable character come into your property, you’ll get a fair warning with lots of barks. Besides, burglars are reluctant to approach homes with dogs for fear of bites.

Keep Fences, Gates, and Garage Doors Locked

It should go without saying that these should be locked as a safety measure. However, most homeowners are complacent. It is expected to see open and half-open garage doors. Those who own fences and gates also forget to lock them. Another commonly forgotten area is basement doors and windows.

If you fail to lock these areas, you set yourself up for disaster. A lock that is not used correctly is rendered useless.

Don’t waste the protective measures that are already at your disposal. You must be extra vigilant about double-checking locks in all areas of your home if you don’t want to be an easy target. Burglary also happens to be a crime of opportunity!

READ ALSO: Identity Theft Is Not A Joke, Jim [MUST READ]

Secure Valuables In A Home Safe or Lockbox

Secure Valuables In A Home Safe or Lockbox

When thieves stake out properties, they observe what’s inside your home. They peer through windows to see what kind of valuables you have. Hence, you must roll down those curtains, especially at night, when everything inside your house is visible to the outside world.

Ensure that all your valuables are away from prying eyes because of these tempting thieves. If you have fine jewelry, fancy watches, corporate bonds, treasury bills, and other valuables, keep them hidden in a home safe or lockbox that is in a secret place.

Keeping them in plain sight is courting disaster. Remember, prevention is always better, especially in these dangerous times. You don’t want your family to experience the trauma of having your home, your safe space violated.

Check Out: Fire Alarm Inspection Services Chicago


RELATED POSTS