Ransomware is a type of malware that uses encryption to hold your data hostage until a ransom, usually in the form of bitcoins, is paid. Here are four ways ransomware can infect a system.
Data and the systems that manage it have become so integral to our way of life. As a result, they have become a prime target for all kinds of unethical criminals, from rogue governments and criminal syndicates to thrill-seekers and disgruntled employees.
Once they gain access to a system, these malicious parties will encrypt those data and demand ransom payments, thereby reducing an organization’s service levels and abruptly damaging its reputation.
These “ransomware” incidents have risen to new heights in the past decade, with many data thieves banking profiting from organizational complacency and ignorance.
Before you can implement ransomware prevention best practices, it’s important to understand just where these attacks are coming from. Here are the most common entry points malicious parties may use to hijack data and systems.
Without getting too technical, Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is a way for systems administrators and IT personnel to remotely access computers and other devices within a network.
This is incredibly useful, as it allows experts to remotely configure devices without them needing to physically access them. However, RDP also creates opportunities for unauthorized users to cripple entire systems and hold data for ransom.
What makes things worse is that many devices that are currently connected to the internet can be readily accessed through RDP, simply because the machines have not been configured properly.
Additionally, these machines could sometimes be found on specialized search engines. Even password-protected devices are not safe, thanks to brute force attacks and the proliferation of password-cracking tools specifically designed for machines with RDP access.
Once these bad actors have gained entry into a system, they can start installing malware, deleting backups, and disabling security functions. If the organization does not have other backups, this may create a situation where the only solution is to pay the criminals a ransom.
Phishing Emails and Trojans
Hackers can also gain access to a device or a network through email links and attachments containing ransomware. This particular method of introducing malware typically relies heavily on user negligence. However, cybercriminals could also employ advanced psychological exploits that may even trick an otherwise conscientious user.
The ransomware files contained or linked to these emails (one example is trojans) can deliver the attack through a variety of means. However, the most common type of email attack involves enabling macros on a target device.
Enabling macros lets the unauthorized party install ransomware or other malware from an outside source. These, in turn, could be used to infect other devices in a network, ultimately allowing the attacker to hold the system or data hostage.
To prevent these attacks, users should always be vigilant about the origin of different emails as well as brush up on best practices for ransomware prevention. Periodic reminders and cybersecurity training may be necessary to keep organizations’ databases safe from these kinds of intrusions.
External Storage Media
USB flash drives, SD cards, phones, hard drives, and other media and hardware that could connect directly to a device on a computer network can be another entry-point for ransomware and other destructive malware. USB drives and SD cards that purport to contain legitimate apps or promotions can insert ransomware as soon as they are connected to a target computer.
Many of these ransomware apps also replicate themselves throughout the computer’s connected networks. Some also affect other connected storage media which could be used to further spread the deployed ransomware.
Avoiding this type of attack involves a combination of user education as well as the installation of security systems that are designed to counter ransomware. Banning unvetted external devices from being used in a network can also prevent ransomware attacks from being carried out this way.
Compromised Websites
Visiting compromised sites or pages, either through browsers or email links can trigger the download of ransomware applications without the end-user noticing.
These websites are often disguised as legitimate pages. The constant proliferation and increasing sophistication of these sites is a major reason why malware solutions have to be updated regularly.
A variety of methods are used by online criminals to exploit users that unwittingly visit these sites. The most common is uploading a ransomware app to the user’s device or network. Other methods are a bit more subtle, such as assessing the site visitor’s device before executing a script in the background.
To make things worse, hackers may sometimes hijack popular sites, allowing them to draw from the trust of large organizations to initiate attacks on different systems.
4 Ways Ransomware Can Infect A System: Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common ways ransomware infects a system?
Ransomware relies on various tactics to gain entry, including:
Phishing emails: Deceptive emails containing malicious attachments or links that, when clicked, download the ransomware.
Infected websites: Visiting compromised websites can trigger drive-by downloads that install ransomware automatically.
Vulnerable software: Unpatched software with known security flaws can be exploited by ransomware attackers.
Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) attacks: Hackers exploit weak RDP configurations to gain access and deploy ransomware.
Social engineering: Deceptive tactics like phone calls or fake support messages trick users into downloading or running malicious software.
How can I protect myself from ransomware attacks?
Here are some essential measures to take:
Be cautious with emails: Don’t open attachments or click on links from unknown senders. Verify sender legitimacy and hover over links before clicking.
Keep software updated: Regularly update your operating system, applications, and firmware to patch vulnerabilities.
Enable strong security measures: Use strong passwords, multi-factor authentication, and firewalls.
Be wary of free downloads: Download software only from trusted sources.
Backup your data regularly: Have regular backups stored securely offline to recover in case of an attack.
Educate yourself and your staff: Learn about common ransomware tactics and train employees on safe online practices.
What should I do if my system gets infected with ransomware?
If you suspect a ransomware infection:
Disconnect your computer from the internet: This prevents the ransomware from spreading to other devices.
Do not pay the ransom: This encourages attackers and doesn’t guarantee data recovery.
Report the attack: Inform law enforcement and relevant authorities.
Seek professional help: Consult data recovery specialists or IT professionals for assistance.
Are there any free tools to protect against ransomware?
Several free tools can help defend against ransomware, including:
Antivirus and anti-malware software: These tools can detect and block known ransomware threats.
Web filters and browser extensions: These can block access to malicious websites.
File encryption tools: Encrypting important data makes it unusable even if ransomware encrypts it.
Keep Your Data Safe From Ransomware
There you go! The 4 ways ransomware can infect a system.
The methods above only a few methods cybercriminals use to compromise databases and systems. However, being mindful of these commonly exploited areas is a core part of ransomware prevention.
To better prevent ransomware, it is best to deploy multiple layers of security, such as privileged access management (PAM), micro-segmentation, intrusion detection, and database security, to name a few.
Deploying all of these solutions could be costly. That is why it is often times better to deploy an all-in-one data security solution, similar to what Mamori.io provides.
Read on as I compare Surfshark Vs Ivacy. In this comparison, I will let you know the best VPN among them.
If you’ve decided to use a VPN application, know it’s a smart move. No, not just a smart move but a crucial one that will guarantee your online safety. Nothing’s more important on the internet today than maintaining privacy.
A good VPN app keeps you anonymous on the web by masking your true IP address. With that, you can browse without worrying about hackers spying on your data. And if you want to access any site not accessible in your region, the VPN can eliminate the restriction.
But the question is, what VPN application should you use? Reading this post means you plan to pick Surfshark or Ivacy VPN and want to know which is best.
Well, read on as I compare Surfshark Vs Ivacy in this post.
Table of Contents
What Is Surfshark VPN?
Surfshark VPN is an easy-to-use VPN service to stay safe on the web. You can download and install it on all major devices and connect to thousands of servers. The best part is that you can use it for free and pay later.
This VPN is the primary software from the Surfshark company. As a result, you can get it as a standalone tool without paying for other Surfshark products. For context, Surfshark features multiple cyber safety tools like an antivirus and breach alert tool, to name a few.
In terms of security, Surfshark VPN performs up to par with staunch industry-level encryption. Then, there are unique features that add more functionality — we’ll cover these subsequently.
Despite all it packs, Surfshark VPN sells for one of the most affordable prices in the cybersecurity industry.
Surfshark
Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Surfshark VPN has servers located in...Show More
Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Surfshark VPN has servers located in more than 60 countries worldwide. Show Less
What Is Ivacy VPN?
IvacyVPN stands as one of the most popular virtual private server apps around. You can count on it to protect your online presence and keep hackers and malicious sites away. However, perhaps Ivacy VPN’s best strength is when it involves bypassing geo-restrictions.
The VPN comes with ingenious features for surfing the web conveniently. It’s noteworthy that it supports all top devices; better yet, you can protect multiple devices simultaneously. The number of servers available is also one to applaud.
As a new user, Ivacy offers a significant discount, letting you save hundreds of dollars. So, at the start, at least, it’s one of the most affordable VPN solutions. In addition, you get extra products when you pay for the VPN.
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Surfshark Vs Ivacy: Key Differences
Feature
Surfshark
Ivacy
Free Trial
30 days
7 days
Ownership
British Virgin Islands
Singapore
Devices
Unlimited
10 devices
VPN Servers
3,200+ in 65+ countries
5,700+ in 100+ countries
VPN Protocols
WireGuard, OpenVPN UDP/TCP, IKEv2
OpenVPN UDP/TCP, IKEv2, L2TP/IPSec
Encryption
AES-256 with SHA-256 and RSA-2048
AES-256 with SHA-256 and RSA-2048
Safety
Claims no-logs policy, no major incidents
Generally considered safe, Singapore data retention laws
VPN Quality
Generally good, occasional speed concerns
Positive reviews, mixed on speed
Best Country
All countries
All countries
Netflix Bypass
Yes
Yes
Editor’s Rating (10)
10/10
9/10
From the overview, if it was difficult to choose between Surfshark VPN and Ivacy, it’s even more complex. Both apps appear to offer first-class VPN features — which is a fact.
However, let’s compare these Surfshark Vs Ivacy features side-by-side and see which app takes the lead.
Servers
Surfshark
When you install the Surfshark VPN application, you can access over 3,200 servers. To add, there’s at least one server in 100 countries. The servers are spread worldwide, in Europe, the Americas, Asia Pacific, and Africa.
Surfshark VPN’s servers are relatively fast, with a 1 Gbps port on every server. Then, you get 10 Gbps ports for the fastest speeds on the best servers. Even if you’re using the VPN for free, you can access a few of these fast servers.
Another factor that improves the performance of Surfshark VPN servers is that they’re RAM-only. That means they retain no data, which bolsters speed. Also, whatever stores on the servers are wiped off occasionally.
Ivacy VPN
Ivacy VPN features no less than 5,700 servers. That’s an impressive number, and these servers are available in over 100 countries. Interestingly, they all work for streaming and unblocking restricted sites.
You can connect to an Ivacy VPN server in countries on almost every continent. However, most are in the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada. For the mentioned countries, you get multiple city locations.
As you browse with Ivacy VPN, you can rest assured of fast server speeds. Winning the fastest VPN in 2029 is a testament to that fact. The service also promises 9.99% uptime, meaning you can rely on the servers for almost any task.
Verdict
The number of countries may be the same, but Ivacy VPN takes the lead, considering the higher server count. Surfshark’s VPN server speeds should not be overlooked, however.
Encryption And Security
Surfshark
The traffic you send and receive with Surfshark VPN stays protected with AES 256 GCM encryption. It’s a symmetric encryption pattern, the gold standard in the cybersecurity industry. That means you won’t likely find a VPN solution with stronger encryption.
To further strengthen security, Surfshark keeps no user logs. As you browse, your IP, browsing history, and other online activities are not stored. And if they’re not stored, then, no one can access them, which keeps you safe.
It’s also worth noting that Surfshark VPN supports private DNS and leak protection. This feature prevents third parties from reading your IP address or DNS requests. Without question, it’s a must-have for any quality VPN.
Ivacy VPN
Ivacy VPN employs AES-256 military-grade encryption to safeguard your traffic. As stated before, it’s the gold standard in the industry. Hackers can’t intercept your online activities once connected to an Ivacy VPN server.
With Ivacy VPN, your browsing data won’t get into third-party hands. The encryption ensures that, and so does the strict no-logs policy. You alone can trace what you do online.
Other features that enhance Ivacy VPN’s security include IPv6 leak protection, secure DNS, and DDoS Protection. Particularly, the secure DNS will encrypt the channel your devices use to communicate with your ISP’s domain name servers.
Verdict
When it comes to encryption, Ivacy VPN and Surfshark VPN stand on level ground as they support the same algorithm. Both also have a no-logs policy with DNS and IP leak protection.
Supported Protocols
Surfshark
You get three top VPN protocols with Surfshark. These include WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN, and you can choose any you want to use with the app settings. Notably, each one offers a unique advantage.
With WireGuard — the default — you get a lightweight protocol that fosters speed. The protocol is also reliable in terms of security. You can say the same about IKEv2. It also works well regarding speed and security. However, it’s particularly ideal for mobile devices.
The third is OpenVPN, which makes the software open source. It’s the protocol to use the VPN on devices without a native app, like routers, for example.
Ivacy VPN
Ivacy VPN supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, L2TP/IPSec, IKEv2/IPSec, and WireGuard. Notably, OpenVPN is the foremost protocol, while WireGuard was recently added. Nevertheless, both are popular open-source options.
The highlight here is that Ivacy VPN supports two versions of IPSec, including IKEv2 and L2TP. L2TP doesn’t offer as much encryption and security as IKEv2 or other supported VPN protocols. Where it stands out is streaming.
So, Ivacy VPN is popular and dependable for streaming and similar tasks because it supports L2TP. You can easily adjust your Ivacy VPN protocol to any supported one from Connection in the Settings section.
Verdict
Ivacy VPN takes a slight edge in this Ivacy vs Surfshark round, as the VPN supports not only IKEv2 for IPSec but also L2TP.
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Kill Switch And Split Tunnelling
Surfshark
Surfshark VPN’s killswitch will end your internet connection the second your VPN drops. Such drops can happen due to network disturbances, and hackers can use the opportunity to steal your data. The latter won’t happen, thanks to Surfshark’s kill switch.
Note that the switch works by default, monitoring your traffic in the background. It activates immediately after you’re no longer connected to the VPN server.
Another feature to note is split tunnelling, known as By Passer. It lets you select what apps you want to protect with the VPN, which, in other words, means what data you want to encrypt. In addition, with split tunnelling, you can use two IPs simultaneously — this is known as MultiHop.
Ivacy VPN
Ivacy VPN features a kill switch and split tunnelling, which you can activate from the settings. The kill switch works as typical — you activate it, and it halts all internet activities when your connection drops.
For split tunnelling, Ivacy also lets you distribute your traffic across different channels. You can set some apps to use the VPN’s encrypted channel while others use your ISPs.
Notably, Ivacy VPN’s split tunnelling feature will work on all major devices, but it performs best on Windows and Android. Configuration is straightforward; you can activate the option regardless of the protocol.
Verdict
It’s a close one here. You get a kill switch and split tunnelling feature with Surfshark and Ivacy VPN. However, Surfshark VPN takes the lead with support for MultiHop, which lets you use two IPs at a time.
Device Compatibility
Surfshark
You can use Surfshark VPN on mobile, desktops, browsers, smart TVs, game consoles, and routers. So, without a doubt, the app has wide compatibility. Yet, it maintains the same intuitiveness across all.
To be particular, you can install Surfshark VPN on Android and iOS for mobile. MacOS, Windows, and Linux are the supported desktop platforms. Surfshark has an extension for browsers for Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge. It’s worth adding that the tool also supports FireTV.
How about smart TVs? The Surfshark VPN app is installable on Apple, Android, and Samsung TVs. You can download it on your Xbox and Playstation consoles. For routers, however, there’s no app. You have to set it up using the OpenVPN protocol manually.
Ivacy VPN
Ivacy VPN promises availability on all major platforms, and the service lives up to the task. Indeed, you can install the app on 15 top platforms, including mobile, desktop, browsers, and streaming sticks, to name a few.
Typically, Ivacy VPN is available on Android and iOS. Interestingly, there’s also an exclusive app for Huawei smartphones.
Furthermore, you can download IvacyVPN for Windows, Mac, and Linux. If you want a browser extension, there’s one for Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge.
As mentioned before, Ivacy VPN is popular for streaming. Hence, the platform supports FireStick and Kodi. You can also use it on game consoles, including Xbox and PlayStation. For smart TVs, Ivacy is only available for Android TVs.
Verdict
The best platform for compatibility is relative. Surfshark has the advantage when considering smart TV apps. However, if your priority is streaming, Ivacy VPN takes the lead.
Surfshark
Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Surfshark VPN has servers located in...Show More
Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Surfshark VPN has servers located in more than 60 countries worldwide. Show Less
Simultaneous Connections
Surfshark
One of Surfshark VPN’s top features is unlimited connections. You can use the app on every device you own with a single subscription. That means you can share your logins with friends and families and protect everyone. Another advantage here is that you can save money on paying multiple subscriptions.
Notably, Surfshark makes things easy when logging in. By default, anyone who wants to share the VPN will enter the account’s email and password. However, you can streamline things using the code login option.
With this option, you only need to generate a code from the VPN’s settings and share it with anyone who wants to stay protected.
Ivacy VPN
Ivacy VPN supports 10 multi-logins. That means you can install the VPN on up to 10 devices and use it simultaneously. This is also commendable, considering the highest for most top VPNs is around five.
You get the same privacy and protection across all devices you use. To log in on any new device, simply enter your account credentials. Notably, Ivacy VPN doesn’t support the code login option.
Verdict
With Ivacy VPN, you can protect up to 10 devices simultaneously. While commendable, it doesn’t match Surfshark’s support for unlimited devices. So, Surfshark wins for this Surfshark Vs Ivacy round.
Third-Party Integrations
Surfshark
Surfshark houses many cybersecurity solutions. You can get the VPN as a standalone tool, or you can purchase the Surfshark One suite and use it with other helpful programs. The programs in question include the Surfshark Antivirus, Search, and Alert.
Each of the above tools integrates seamlessly with the Surfshark VPN, especially when you use the extension on your browser. Note that each program serves a unique function. Consider the antivirus, for instance. It’ll eliminate different forms of malware and viruses from your device.
Meanwhile, the Search tool serves as a safe alternative to Google and other similar sites. You can find information on the web without dealing with ads and trackers. Then, with the alert tool, you monitor your data for online breaches and take action immediately if there are any.
Ivacy VPN
Besides the VPN, Ivacy partners with Sticky Password to bring users a staunch password manager software. You get the VPN by default when you pay for Ivacy Premium. And it’s an easy-to-use tool.
Notably, you can save as many passwords as you want with Sticky Password. In addition, the tool will also work for storing credit card details and other information. You can even use it to auto-fill online forms.
Verdict
Surfshark VPN leads in this Surfshark Vs Ivacy round. The solution integrates with more tools via the Surfshark One suite than Ivacy VPN.
Customer Support
Surfshark
You can get help as a Surfshark VPN user via email or live chat.
These options are available 24/7, but live chat is the best since you speak with a support agent in real time. Alternatively, you can use the Help Center and view resources and guides.
Ivacy VPN
Ivacy VPN supports live chat, which is always 24/7.
If you want prompt, real-time support, there’s no better option than it. However, there’s still email support and the Help Center, which you can turn to.
Verdict
Surfshark and Ivacy VPN have identical support channels, so it’s a draw.
To use the Surfshark VPN, here are the available Surfshark Starter pricing plans:
1-month plan: $10.99 per month
1-year plan: $2.99 per month (plus 2 free months)
2 years plan: $1.99 per month (plus 4 free months)
Surfshark
Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Surfshark VPN has servers located in...Show More
Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Surfshark VPN has servers located in more than 60 countries worldwide. Show Less
Both Ivacy VPN and Surfshark have cost-friendly prices. However, Ivacy VPN is the more affordable solution.
Ivacy Vs Surfshark: Pros And Cons
Surfshark VPN Pros
Over 3,200 servers in 100 countries
Top-notch encryption
Split tunneling with double VPN
Multiple protocols
Unlimited connections
Integration with Surfshark One
Surfshark VPN Cons
Surfshark One requires a higher subscription
Supports a few streaming devices
Surfshark
Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Surfshark VPN has servers located in...Show More
Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Surfshark VPN has servers located in more than 60 countries worldwide. Show Less
Ivacy Pros
Over 5,700 servers in 100 countries
Reliable encryption
Multiple protocols
Ideal for streaming
Supports up to 10 devices simultaneously
24/7 support
Ivacy Cons
Low supported integrations
Supports a few smart TVs
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Surfshark Vs Ivacy: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Surfshark better than Ivacy?
It depends on your priorities. Here’s a comparison:
Feature
Surfshark
Ivacy VPN
Speed
Generally faster
Can be slower
Server Network
Larger network
Smaller network
Security
Strong encryption protocols
Strong encryption protocols
Privacy
No-logs policy
No-logs policy (claims to be verified)
Simultaneous Connections
Unlimited connections
Up to 10 connections
Price
Generally more expensive
It can be cheaper on long-term plans
Torrenting
Allowed on all servers
Allowed on all servers
Ease of Use
User-friendly interface
User-friendly interface
Generally, Surfshark edges out Ivacy in terms of speed, server network size, and unlimited connections. However, Ivacy can be a more budget-friendly option, especially on longer subscriptions.
Is there a better VPN than Surfshark?
There’s no single “best” VPN. Some strong alternatives include:
ExpressVPN: Known for its exceptional speed, security, and reliable connections (typically comes at a higher cost).
NordVPN: Offers robust security features, a vast server network, and competitive pricing.
CyberGhost: A user-friendly option with good speeds and a focus on ease of use.
Is Ivacy a good VPN?
Ivacy is a decent VPN option, offering:
Solid security features
A good server network
Competitive pricing for certain plans
However, its speed can be inconsistent, and it might not be the best choice for users prioritizing top-tier speeds or unlimited connections.
Which VPN is strongest between Ivacy and Surfshark?
Surfshark is slightly ahead due to its faster speeds, proven no-logs policy, and robust security features.
Is Surfshark the cheapest VPN?
Surfshark’s pricing can be very competitive, especially with longer subscriptions. However, it’s not necessarily the absolute cheapest option. Always compare pricing across different VPN providers to find the best deal for your needs.
Bottom Line
From this comparison between Surfshark and Ivacy, you can confirm that Surfshark and Ivacy are both top-level VPNs. Each comes with the key features any internet user will need to stay safe online. However, side-by-side, Surfshark VPN is the better tool.
Surfshark VPN may not have as many servers as Ivacy VPN, but it has coverage in the same country. You can use the app on unlimited devices with one subscription, and it also supports more integration.
Furthermore, looking at the pricing plans, Surfshark VPN isn’t the most affordable, but the cost is still relatively low. You can download and install Surfshark VPN now and use it for free.
Leave a comment below regarding this comparison between Ivacy and Surfshark.
Surfshark
Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Surfshark VPN has servers located in...Show More
Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Surfshark VPN has servers located in more than 60 countries worldwide. Show Less
In this post, we will reveal the objectives of a cybersecurity training program.
From careless staff to malicious insiders, an organization’s employees can be one of its biggest cybersecurity threats. The number of insider incidents globally reached 4,700 this year, with an overall cost of $11.45 million.
While 62% of insider incidents were caused by employee negligence, 23% of insider incidents were related to staff with malicious intent.
However, with the right cybersecurity training, an organization’s employees can become its strongest line of defense. In other words, employees who are given proper security awareness training can identify and avoid a potential cyber-attack or data breach.
Businesses can hire a Managed Services Provider (MSP) to train their employees in various aspects of cybersecurity and improve their network security.
Let’s look at how MSPs can help businesses enhance their IT security through a comprehensive cybersecurity training program for employees.
Table of Contents
Objectives Of A Cybersecurity Training Program
Identifying and Mitigating Different Types of Cybersecurity Threats
MSPs can train a company’s employees to identify the below-mentioned cybersecurity threats, among others:
Phishing
This type of social engineering attack is where cyber-attackers trick individuals into obtaining critical data such as passwords and usernames.Email and text messages are some common means of initiating a phishing attack.
MSPs impart the following lessons through the cybersecurity training program to help employees identify a phishing attack:
Never open emails from unfamiliar senders
Always use a spam filter
Refrain from clicking on suspicious links and attachments
Always check the domain name in the email
Watch out for grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and poor formatting in an email, as these are the common tell-tale signs of malicious intent.
Report and mark emails and text messages that create an unnecessary sense of emergency or ask for financial details as spam
Malware
This is malicious software that cybercriminals install on an individual’s device and try to gain unauthorized access to his/her sensitive information or cause extensive damage to the data and the device. Here’s what MSPs teach to help employees recognize and reduce the effect of a potential malware attack:
Never click on pop-up messages
Closely monitor files attached to emails and websites
Always keep the device’s software updated
Back-up data regularly either to an external hard drive or the cloud
Never download unauthorized software on devices
2. Underlining the Importance of Password Security
Strong passwords can act as a robust barrier to cyber-attacks. A few important password security tips that MSPs suggest to employees include:
Use strong and complex words in a password
Avoid using the same password for different accounts
Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Never use Personal Identifiable Information (PII) such as credit card details and social security numbers as usernames or passwords.
If the password is compromised, change it immediately and inform the concerned authority.
3. Practicing Safe Internet and Social Media Habits
One of the aims of the security training program is to encourage employees to incorporate healthy internet and social media habits such as:
Recognizing suspicious or spoofed domains
Understanding the difference between Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure (HTTPS) and Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP)
Refraining from entering credentials and login information on untrusted websites
Avoiding sharing personal details on social media platforms
4. Highlighting the Importance of Physical Security of the Business
Apart from training employees on cybersecurity practices, MSPs teach them to protect their organization from the following physical security threats:
Shoulder Surfing
This is a type of data theft where malicious insiders and visitors steal the employee’s personal or sensitive information by secretly observing them.
Employees can counter shoulder surfing by being vigilant and ensuring that nobody looks at their system as they type their password or other sensitive information.
Also, when asked to provide their personal information, such as social security or credit card number, they should write it on paper and not speak it out loud to prevent its theft through eavesdropping. The paper should then be shredded instantly.
Tailgating
This is a physical security breach where an unauthorized person follows an employee or any other staff of the organization and enters a highly secure area of the business based on that employee’s credentials.
Tailgating can lead to data theft while putting the organization’s property and employees at risk. Employees can prevent tailgating by incorporating the below-mentioned countermeasures:
Employees should be aware of anyone following them through a restricted business area.
They should immediately inform the concerned authority if they notice a suspicious individual on the company premises.
They should ensure that physical security panels in the business’s premises, such as doors and locks, are working properly.
5. Incorporating a Robust Bring-Your-Own-Device (BYOD) Policy
With the BYOD culture on the rise, many employees use their devices to store business and customer data and perform work-related tasks.
If not protected properly, these personal devices come with their share of cybersecurity risks, such as malware infiltration. MSPs develop a strong BYOD policy that covers the following objectives:
Ensuring employees protect their devices through a strong password
Once organizations deploy a proper security training program for employees,they should ensure that they update and repeat it regularly. It will develop a good habit of prioritizing cybersecurity in employees.
Further, regular training will inform employees about the latest cybersecurity threats and help them proactively counter them.
However, if an employee does fall victim to a cybersecurity attack, organizations should refrain from criticizing him/her publicly. Instead, the employee should be allowed to learn from his/her mistakes. Also, organizations can use the case to create further cybersecurity awareness among other employees.
Further, companies need to make cybersecurity training compulsory for new employees. It will give them a clear idea that cybersecurity is important to the organization’s safety. This, in turn, will encourage them to be careful with their online behavior from the very beginning.
Wrap Up
Employees play a critical role in strengthening the security of an organization.
So, instead of considering them the weakest security link, organizations should work towards transforming them into their greatest security asset through a strong security awareness training program. Alternatively, businesses can enroll their important staff members for cybersecurity online degrees.
In summary, businesses must use a viable security program encompassing the objectives mentioned to help employees understand and thwart potential cybercrime incidents effectively.
The need to know what your partner, kid(s), or even employees’ online life looks like and their conversations and activities can be overwhelming.
Your kids can be hooked on unholy friends and activities, your partner can have other partners unknown to you, and your employees can spend more than a quarter of their work hours on social media or watching their favorite shows.
You can use several phone spy apps to monitor people’s mobile devices and give you control over their activities online, but can you trust these spy apps?
Of all the spy apps tested, mSpy is the best and most trustworthy spy app for mobile phones. Hence, there is a need to publish this mSpy review to give you an in-depth understanding of mSpy and what you can do with it.
Table of Contents
What Is mSpy?
mSpy is a spy app launched by MTechnology Ltd in 2010. The app allows you to remotely monitor the movement and activities of other people via their devices to prevent them from engaging in inappropriate activities.
mSpy allows you to monitor phone calls, social media handles, browser activities, and location by working secretly in the background of the target’s phone without raising any issues or interfering with the user’s activities.
After installing mSpy on a user’s phone, mSpy records users’ call logs, SMS, browser activities, location, etc., and uploads it to your mSpy account. This information is accessible by logging into your mSpy dashboard on your phone or PC.
If you’re a parent concerned about your child’s online safety, then you may have heard about mSpy Parental Control App.
This app is designed to help parents monitor their children’s online activities and keep them safe from any online threats.
mSpy
mSpy is a mobile monitoring and tracking software that allows users to monitor the activity on a smartphone or tablet...Show More
mSpy is a mobile monitoring and tracking software that allows users to monitor the activity on a smartphone or tablet, including tracking location, text messages, call history, and social media activity, and in some cases, it can also be used to monitor activities on a computer. Show Less
Benefits Of mSpy Parental Control App
1. Monitoring and Tracking Features: One of the biggest benefits of mSpy is that it offers a range of monitoring and tracking features. This app can monitor your child’s text messages, phone calls, social media activity, location, and more. This can help you monitor your child’s online behavior and intervene if necessary.
2. Remote Access: Another great feature of mSpy is that it allows remote access. This means you can monitor your child’s activity from anywhere worldwide if you have an internet connection. You can use this feature to check in on your child’s activity while you’re at work or traveling.
3. Customizable Alerts: mSpy also offers customizable alerts. This means you can set up alerts for certain keywords or phrases that may concern you. For example, if you’re worried about your child talking to strangers online, you can set up an alert for any messages that contain the word “stranger.” This can help you stay on top of any potential risks.
4. Easy-to-Use Interface: Another benefit of mSpy is its easy-to-use interface. The app is designed to be user-friendly, so even if you’re not tech-savvy, you should be able to easily navigate it.
5. Compatibility: mSpy is compatible with Android and iOS devices, so no matter what kind of phone or tablet your child uses, you should be able to use this app to monitor their activity.
Choose any payment platform, follow the payment process, and get a username and password.
Download and install mSpy on the target’s device; log in with your account details.
Log on to your dashboard from your PC or mobile device and start monitoring the target device effortlessly.
mSpy
mSpy is a mobile monitoring and tracking software that allows users to monitor the activity on a smartphone or tablet...Show More
mSpy is a mobile monitoring and tracking software that allows users to monitor the activity on a smartphone or tablet, including tracking location, text messages, call history, and social media activity, and in some cases, it can also be used to monitor activities on a computer. Show Less
mSpyKey Features
GPS Tracking and Geo-Fencing
This feature allows you to monitor your kid, employee, or partner’s location anywhere. In addition, you can also set up geofencing by setting up a perimeter for a safe zone.
For instance, you can set up a perimeter around your kid’s school as a safe zone and get instant notification in real time once your kid crosses the perimeter of the safe zone.
Call log
mSpy’s call monitoring allows you to monitor call logs on targeted devices by recording incoming and outgoing call details, caller identity, call duration, and other info. This lets you know who your kid or partner communicates with.
Call Blocking
mSpy gives you total access to contacts on the target device and allows you to block an incoming or outgoing call remotely.
Logging onto your dashboard, you can view all call details and contacts and set up a block list to bar any incoming or outgoing call, whether existing on the contact list or not.
Text message
This feature lets you monitor and access all incoming and outgoing SMS and emails on the target’s device. It also gives you access to deleted messages; thus, nothing is hidden. The app also records info such as date, time, sender, or recipient.
Media file monitoring
You can view all images, videos, and other multimedia files from your dashboard on the target’s device, irrespective of their origin. You can view images taken or videos recorded with social media apps like Snapchat, WhatsApp, Instagram, etc.
App monitoring
The ‘Installed apps’ tab on your mSpy dashboard gives you access to all installed apps on the target device and allows you to block or restrict usage of any app you deem as unfit, dangerous, or threatening to the user.
Hence, you can uninstall apps like Tinder, Snapchat, MySpace, or other apps you consider unsafe for your kid(s), as I did while crafting this mSpy review.
Browser monitoring
With mSpy, you can monitor and view browser history and info such as sites visited, duration, etc.
You can create a blacklist of websites you consider unsafe for your kid(s) and also create timed restrictions to restrict the use of social media apps or other apps during specific hours, which can be timed to school or work hours.
For instance, you can set up restrictions for Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and WhatsApp within the hours of 8-2 while your kid is in school.
Keylogger
mSpy’skeylogger logs information like usernames, passwords, URLs, SMS, emails, encrypted text, etc., by recording and remotely transmitting every keystroke typed on the target’s device.
This gives you access to the target’s accounts, usernames, passwords, and text communications from your dashboard.
WiFi Networks
With mSpy, you can monitor all lists of WiFi connections the device connects to and remotely block all WiFi networks you consider unsafe, thus preventing information leakage, which can pose a serious threat to the target user.
Remote lock and wipe
If the target device is lost or stolen, this feature lets you remotely lock or wipe off every data on the target device, thus preventing vital data from falling into the wrong hands.
mSpy Apps
mSpy is compatible with rooted/jailbroken and unrooted/unbroken Android and iOS devices. For this mSpy review, I tested it on both rooted and unrooted Android smartphones.
However, you can only use mSpy on iPhone 4 and above for iOS devices and Android 4.0 and above for Android devices.
Features And Testing Results
Independent testing for this mSpy review has subjected mSpy to various tests.
Here’s a summary of common findings:
Installation: The installation process can be moderately complex, especially for iOS devices, which typically require physical access to the device.
Usability: The user interface is generally user-friendly, with clear menus and easy navigation.
Reliability: Testing results show varying degrees of reliability. Call and text monitoring are generally reliable, while social media monitoring and web browsing tracking might be limited depending on the target device and operating system.
mSpy Customer Service
During this mSpy review, I discovered that mSpy offers phone, email, and live chat support in several languages, including French, German, Portuguese, Russian, Italian, Chinese, and Spanish.
Depending on your subscription package, you can access 1 of the three support tiers available.
First-tier provides support for basic and premium subscribers via:
Self-service/FAQ
Email Support: support@mspy.com
LiveChat
The second tier offers personalized support via phone and step-by-step guidance for $12.99.
Third-tier support provides advanced assistance for rooting or jailbreaking a device and installation on Android devices via Team Viewer for $53.99.
mSpy Premium is available at $199.99 per year, $119.99 per quarter(3-month plan), and $69 per month.
mSpy Family Kit is available @ $479.97 per year and $359.97 for half a year(6-months plan).
All plans enjoy a 10-day money-back guarantee, after which users are not eligible to ask for a refund.
mSpy Family plan gives you access to the full range of features available, including third-tier support and other benefits.
mSpy
mSpy is a mobile monitoring and tracking software that allows users to monitor the activity on a smartphone or tablet...Show More
mSpy is a mobile monitoring and tracking software that allows users to monitor the activity on a smartphone or tablet, including tracking location, text messages, call history, and social media activity, and in some cases, it can also be used to monitor activities on a computer. Show Less
mSpy Pros
The mSpy parental control app offers a wide range of monitoring features that allow parents to keep track of their children’s online activities and keep them safe from potential dangers.
The app is easy to install and use, with a user-friendly interface that even non-technical parents can navigate.
The app updates the child’s location and lets parents set geofencing alerts.
mSpy offers excellent customer support, with a dedicated team of professionals available 24/7 to provide assistance and resolve any issues.
mSpy Cons
The app can be quite expensive, with subscription plans ranging from $29.99 to $199.99 per year, depending on the features required.
Some users may find the app intrusive, as it allows parents to monitor their children’s online activities in real-time, including their social media interactions.
The app requires access to the child’s device, which may not be possible in some situations and can also be a breach of privacy if not used responsibly.
Best Parental Control Apps
Qustodio
Trusted by over 4 million parents as the all-in-one parental control application
Trusted by over 4 million parents as the all-in-one parental control application Show Less
Kaspersky Safe Kids
Kaspersky Safe Kids is a parental control app that helps parents monitor and control their child's online activity...Show More
Kaspersky Safe Kids is a parental control app that helps parents monitor and control their child's online activity, including web browsing, app usage, and location tracking. Show Less
FamiSafe
This is one of the most reliable parental control apps for controlling screen time, regulating content, and tracking...Show More
This is one of the most reliable parental control apps for controlling screen time, regulating content, and tracking your kids' location in real-time. Show Less
ESET Parental Control
This parental monitoring app allows you to monitor and control your kids' online activity find their location in...Show More
This parental monitoring app allows you to monitor and control your kids' online activity find their location in real-time, and set screentime limits for gaming and other activities. Show Less
Norton Family
Gives your kids free access to the internet while giving you total control over their online activities.
Gives your kids free access to the internet while giving you total control over their online activities. Show Less
NLLFAM
mSpy
mSpy is a mobile monitoring and tracking software that allows users to monitor the activity on a smartphone or tablet...Show More
mSpy is a mobile monitoring and tracking software that allows users to monitor the activity on a smartphone or tablet, including tracking location, text messages, call history, and social media activity, and in some cases, it can also be used to monitor activities on a computer. Show Less
EyeZy
EyeZy is an advanced parental control software that allows parents to monitor and control their children's internet...Show More
EyeZy is an advanced parental control software that allows parents to monitor and control their children's internet activity, including monitoring their browsing history, blocking websites, setting time limits, and more. Show Less
uMobix
uMobix is a phone monitoring app offering features like call tracking, text message spying, and GPS location, raising...Show More
uMobix is a phone monitoring app offering features like call tracking, text message spying, and GPS location, raising privacy concerns despite aiming to help parents monitor children's online activity. Show Less
SpyBubble
SpyBubble is a phone monitoring app used for parental control, employee monitoring, or catching cheating spouses...Show More
SpyBubble is a phone monitoring app used for parental control, employee monitoring, or catching cheating spouses, raising privacy concerns due to its ability to track calls, messages, location, and more. Show Less
mSpy Review: Frequently Asked Questions
Is mSpy Safe?
mSpy is a 100 percent safe parental control app. You can deactivate and uninstall mSpy from the target’s device at any time without encountering any difficulty.
Also, mSpy uses military-grade encryption protocol to encrypt all data stored on its server, thus protecting your privacy and security.
Does mSpy really work?
As a cybersecurity expert, I can confidently say that the mSpy parental control app is one of the best options available in the market.
It’s an efficient and reliable app that helps parents monitor their children’s online activities. Its advanced features allow parents to monitor their child’s text messages, social media, and internet usage.
The app has been tested and reviewed by many users who have confirmed its effectiveness. It’s easy to install and use and provides real-time updates on your child’s online activities.
Overall, if you’re a concerned parent wanting to ensure their child’s safety online, the mSpy parental control app is worth considering. Its advanced features and reliable performance make it one of the best options available in the market.
Can someone tell mSpy is on their phone?
Yes, someone can tell if mSpy is on their phone. The app may appear in the phone’s list of installed applications or running services.
Additionally, the phone may experience unusual behavior, such as sudden battery drain or slower performance due to the app constantly running in the background.
It’s important to note that installing mSpy without the phone owner’s consent is illegal and can result in serious consequences.
Is mSpy the right phone monitoring app for you?
mSpy is a parental control and phone monitoring app that allows you to track activity on a smartphone or tablet. It offers many features, but is it the best choice for your needs? This review will delve into mSpy’s features, testing results from trusted sources, and potential drawbacks to help you decide.
Is mSpy legal to use?
The legality of using mSpy hinges on your location and the use context. Here’s why:
Parental Control: Using mSpy to monitor your minor child’s phone is generally acceptable, assuming you have parental responsibility.
Employee Monitoring: In some cases, employers can monitor work-issued devices. However, clear policies and employee consent are crucial.
Monitoring Another Adult’s Phone: This is strictly prohibited without their knowledge and consent. It’s a privacy violation and can have legal repercussions.
Always check your local laws and regulations regarding phone monitoring to ensure legal compliance.
What is better than mSpy?
“Better” depends on your needs. Here are some popular mSpy alternatives:
Qustodio: Offers parental control features focusing on content filtering and screen time management.
Norton Family: Provides features similar to Qustodio and a user-friendly interface.
Net Nanny: Another parental control app strongly emphasizing web filtering and app blocking.
Owly: Primarily for iOS devices, Owly offers comprehensive monitoring with a user-friendly interface.
Consider factors like features, compatibility, pricing, and ease of use when choosing an alternative.
Can mSpy record video calls?
No, mSpy currently doesn’t offer video call recording functionality. It might be able to monitor video call history on some devices but not the calls’ content.
How long does it take for mSpy to work?
The setup time can vary depending on the target device and your technical expertise.
Android: Generally faster to install, although some features require rooting the device (which can be risky).
iOS: Typically requires physical access to the iPhone or iPad for installation.
Once set up, mSpy should start quickly collecting data and syncing it to your online account. However, depending on the monitored data volume, some features might take longer to update.
A Final Thought On The mSpy Review
From this mSpy review, you will support my recommendation of mSpy as a parental control/spyware app that is best for monitoring call logs, browser activities, social media, location, and more.
Although mSpy may be on the high side for $199.99 per year, compared with other parental control apps, you are sure of getting every bang for your buck.
mSpy
mSpy is a mobile monitoring and tracking software that allows users to monitor the activity on a smartphone or tablet...Show More
mSpy is a mobile monitoring and tracking software that allows users to monitor the activity on a smartphone or tablet, including tracking location, text messages, call history, and social media activity, and in some cases, it can also be used to monitor activities on a computer. Show Less
Maybe you are new to the investment world but already have come across the term forex trading. Whether you are new to the field or have some knowledge, you might benefit from this world of Forex Trading walk-through.
Forex Trading is simply trading currencies like you would do on vacation when traveling to a country that uses a different currency.
Like with every other investment, research and getting to know the market is an important factor in forex trading. And it is worth the struggle as there are many reasons to get into forex trading.
Table of Contents
The Forex Market
The forex market is the largest financial market in the world as it consists of around 5 trillion dollars daily in transactions. It is more than some of the world’s biggest stock markets combined. The exchange rate tells a lot about the different countries’ economies.
A well-balanced rate is essential for a country’s economy. Every currency is traded through over-the-counter trading. This means that the trades are happening electronically all around the globe at every hour of the day or night.
This market does not only consist of traders interested in making a profit. Many of these transactions are just payments for goods in another currency across countries.
Trading currencies is when you buy and sell currencies to make money from the different values between the two. So, you must determine whether the currency will rise or fall.
However, using the best brokers and tools will get you a long way; this information can give you access to fxforex.com, a site with everything you need to know about forex trading. The price of one currency relative to another will change over time.
So, you can buy a currency at its cheapest and count for it to rise, and then sell like with stocks. This market changes quickly, though.
The Pair Of Currency
When you trade currencies, you choose a currency pair with two currencies. Of course, you should consider this pairing as it is a big part of the strategy.
The base currency is the first noted currency in a pair and the one against which the pair’s value is measured. The pair states the difference between the value of the currencies, which can be big and small.
The quote currency is the second currency noted in the pair. The amount of the quoted currency indicates how much is needed to buy one unit of the base currency.
The Right App With A Demo
There are so many investment apps out there, so make sure you find one that offers forex trading. Start with a free demo account, and you can practice and get to know the trading game before you make real money.
To understand the dynamics, you can analyze the market and see how the rates rise and fall throughout the day. And, of course, it is essential to find a good broker, where you can trust the sites and learn while you trade.
Entering the Forex Market: Your Guide to Getting Started with Forex Trading
The foreign exchange market (forex) is a vast and dynamic marketplace where currencies are traded. If you’re interested in forex trading, here’s a roadmap to guide you through the initial steps:
1. Educate Yourself
Forex trading requires knowledge and understanding of the market dynamics. Here are some resources to get you started:
Books and Online Courses: Numerous resources delve into forex trading basics, strategies, and risk management. Choose reputable sources and avoid “get rich quick” schemes.
Financial Websites and Blogs: Many websites offer valuable forex trading information, news, and analysis. Look for credible sources with a good track record.
Forex Demos: Many brokers offer demo accounts with virtual funds that allow you to practice trading without risking real money. This is a fantastic way to experiment with strategies and get comfortable with the platform.
2. Choose a Regulated Broker
A trustworthy forex broker is crucial for secure trading. Look for these factors:
Regulation: Ensure the broker is regulated by a reputable financial authority like the FCA (UK), SEC (US), or ASIC (Australia).
Trading Platform: Choose a user-friendly platform that aligns with your needs. Consider factors like features, mobile compatibility, and research tools.
Fees and Spreads: Compare transaction fees, spreads (difference between buy and sell prices), and margin requirements (initial deposit needed for leveraged trading) offered by different brokers.
3. Understand the Risks
Forex trading carries inherent risks. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Market Volatility: Forex markets can be highly volatile, and prices fluctuate rapidly. This can lead to significant losses if you’re not careful.
Leverage: Many brokers offer leverage, which can amplify profits and losses. Leverage can magnify risk and lead to substantial financial losses if you’re not properly prepared.
Start Small: It’s wise to start with a small amount of capital you can afford to lose. Only invest what you’re comfortable with, especially as a beginner.
4. Develop a Trading Strategy
Having a well-defined trading strategy helps you make informed decisions and manage risk. Here are some common approaches:
Technical Analysis: This strategy analyzes historical price charts, technical indicators, and patterns to identify potential entry and exit points for trades.
Fundamental Analysis: This approach considers broader economic factors, interest rates, and geopolitical events that can influence currency values.
News Trading: Reacting to real-time news and economic announcements can be a strategy, but it requires quick decision-making and a solid understanding of market reactions.
5. Discipline and Continuous Learning
Forex trading requires discipline and constant learning.
Develop a Trading Plan: Establish clear rules for entering and exiting trades, risk management parameters, and emotional control strategies to avoid impulsive decisions.
Stay Updated: The forex market is constantly evolving. Regularly monitor economic data, news events, and stay informed about market trends.
Practice and Patience: Mastering forex trading takes time and dedication. Utilize demo accounts to practice and refine your strategy before risking real money. Remember, consistent results come from discipline and ongoing learning.
Bottom Line
Forex trading can be a rewarding experience, but it’s not a guaranteed path to riches.
You can increase your chances of success in this dynamic market by educating yourself, choosing a reputable broker, understanding the risks, developing a strategy, and maintaining discipline.
Unsurprisingly, most business owners have to use software solutions to keep afloat and compete with the best in the industry. Without software solutions, most businesses will be outpaced by the competition.
That said, just because one understands that software solutions are important doesn’t mean any challenges will be ahead. Many company owners struggle with poor decision-making concerning software solutions.
Here are a few best-practice tactics to help even the most inexperienced business owner deal with the challenges of unsuccessful software ventures.
Table of Contents
What to Do If Your Business’s Software Solutions Aren’t Bringing Results?
1. Tackling custom app development to help your business grow
One common beginner’s trap in business management is using software templates so the company can access apps as soon as possible. The trouble with such a tactic is the digital world is already filled to the brim with apps of all types.
When there are already so many apps, it saturates the marketplace, and people learn how to spot the same boring template.
The result is a lack of overall engagement with the apps. It’s not a good look for any business, so it’s often best to try a different approach with custom ASP .net development, where your company works on customized apps.
Not only will it help turn heads, but you’ll also future-proof your business by working on apps that can be easily integrated into your company processes.
2. Using data management platforms to help ease the burden
Software solutions will only work well if you have a solid foundation for your company. Data management platforms fulfill such a role, and it’s up to you to find software solutions that can give your business staying power.
For example, a company owner who chooses cloud-based services can manage their business remotely or even tackle remote team management. It opens the doors to your employees working from home, likely leading to an influx of new hires.
Team management software can help keep everyone on the same page, and project management is particularly useful for business projects with steps that number in the hundreds.
One significant advantage you have over the rest of the competition comes from competition analysis. While everyone else can do the same thing, analyzing the competition determines what’s best for your business in the industry.
Perhaps your software solutions aren’t working due to a shift in how your competitors manage products and services.
Studying the competition, especially with how they tackle digital marketing, is one of the best things you can do to turn things around.
An extra round of analysis never hurts, and it can be especially useful in digital marketing.
In the fast-evolving world of technology, constant change is the norm. Embrace a mindset of continuous improvement for your software solutions.
Regularly evaluate your systems, gather user feedback, and stay attuned to industry trends. This ensures that your software remains effective and competitive.
5. Investing in Training and Support
Your software’s success hinges on the proficiency of your team. Consider investing in training programs and ongoing support to equip your employees with the necessary skills.
A well-trained staff can maximize your software’s potential and avoid common pitfalls.
To measure the effectiveness of your software solutions, establish KPIs aligned with your business objectives.
Regularly monitor and analyze these metrics to track progress and make informed decisions. Use these insights to adapt your strategies to keep your software aligned with your business needs.
What to Do If Your Business’s Software Solutions Aren’t Bringing Results: Frequently Asked Questions
Why might my business software not be bringing results?
Several factors could be at play:
Misaligned Needs: Perhaps the software doesn’t fully address your core business needs or isn’t suited for your industry.
Improper Implementation: Rushing implementation or inadequate staff training can hinder the software’s effectiveness.
Underutilization: Your team might not use all the software’s features to their full potential.
Integration Issues: Difficulty integrating the software with existing systems can create data silos and hinder workflows.
Outdated Features: Outdated software might lack the functionalities needed to meet industry demands.
What can I do to diagnose the problem?
Track Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Identify relevant metrics related to the area the software is supposed to improve. Analyze if there’s been any progress since implementation.
Gather User Feedback: Talk to your employees who use the software daily. Understand their frustrations and areas for improvement.
Review Usage Data: Many software solutions provide usage reports. Analyze user activity to see if features are being utilized effectively.
What are my options for improvement?
Optimize Current Software: Revisit training materials, explore additional features, and ensure proper integration with existing systems.
Consider Customization: Some software allows customization to suit your specific needs better.
Explore Alternative Solutions: If the software is fundamentally incompatible, research other options that better align with your business goals.
How do I decide if I need new software?
Cost vs. Benefit Analysis: Weigh the cost of a new solution against the potential return on investment (ROI) in terms of efficiency and performance gains.
Scalability: Consider your future growth plans. Will the current software be able to scale with your business needs?
Future-Proofing: Look for software that offers regular security patch updates and keeps pace with industry advancements.
What if I decide to switch software?
Data Migration Strategy: Plan how to seamlessly migrate your existing data to the new system.
Vendor Selection: Carefully research and compare different software options before deciding. Consider factors like features, pricing, and customer support.
Implementation Plan: Develop a well-defined implementation plan to ensure a smooth transition with minimal disruption to your workflow.
Remember, the beauty of software is its adaptability. You can always make changes and adjust your strategies as needed.
By following these best-practice tactics and remaining agile in your approach to software solutions, you can position your business for enduring success in a rapidly changing digital world.
Don’t worry if your company’s software solutions aren’t panning out how you want. There’s always an opportunity to turn things around; the above tips can help you get started. The best part about software is you can always make changes and shift strategies.
Today, we will show you how to secure your devices against phishing emails. That way, you can use your webmail without worries.
There is currently a noticeable increase in the number of phishing attacks. It is a generalized problem representing a significant risk for people and organizations. Phishing is an issue that we must all consider, as these types of attacks will not disappear soon.
Cybercriminals have typically implemented phishing attacks after data breaches. There are cases where criminals send messages to users warning them to change their passwords but send them to a fake website in an attempt to collect their data.
Table of Contents
How To Detect Phishing Emails
Phishing emails are a cunning attempt by scammers to trick you into revealing personal information or clicking on malicious links.
Phishing emails often sound desperate or use scare tactics. They might have an unusual sender address pretending to be a bank, credit card company, online store, or even a government agency you wouldn’t normally expect to contact via email.
2. Verify the Sender and Contact Information
Do you have an account with the claimed sender? Double-check if you’re a customer of the company the email claims to be from.
Is the email address legitimate? Phishing emails often have sender addresses that look almost like the real company’s address but have misspellings or extra characters. Look closely!
Don’t trust the contact details in the email. If you’re unsure, find the company’s official website and use the contact information listed there to reach out and confirm the email’s legitimacy.
3. Resist Clicking on Links or Downloading Attachments
Hover, Don’t Click: Many email clients allow you to hover over a link to see the URL it directs you to. Be wary if it doesn’t match the text displayed in the email.
Phony Websites Look Real: Phishing emails might link to websites that mimic real companies’ login pages. Always double-check the URL before entering any personal information.
Attachments Can Be Malware: Never open attachments from suspicious emails, especially those with file extensions like “.exe” or “.bat,” which can contain malware.
4. Look for Security Cues
“HTTPS” Matters: Legitimate companies transmitting sensitive data will use a secure connection, indicated by “HTTPS” at the beginning of the URL. Look for this before entering any passwords or financial information.
Grammatical and Spelling Errors: Phishing emails often contain typos, grammatical mistakes, or awkward phrasing. A legitimate company is unlikely to make such errors in official communication.
5. When in Doubt, Verify Directly
Suppose you’re unsure about an email’s legitimacy. In that case, don’t hesitate to contact the company directly using a phone number or email address you know is correct (from an official website, not the email itself).
Following these tips and staying cautious can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to phishing scams and protect your sensitive information.
Phishing emails are a cunning attempt by hackers to steal your personal information, login credentials, or financial details.
These deceptive emails can appear alarmingly legitimate, often impersonating trusted institutions you interact with daily.
Here’s a breakdown of how they work:
The Bait
Urgency and Fear: Phishing emails often create a sense of urgency or fear to pressure you into acting quickly without thinking critically.
Spoofed Sender: Hackers cleverly disguise the sender’s address to appear like a legitimate source. They might use logos and branding from well-known banks, credit card companies, online retailers, or government agencies.
Personalized Touch: Some phishing attempts might include bits of personal information they gleaned from data breaches or social media to appear more believable.
The Hook
Phony Invoices: The email might contain a fake invoice with a downloadable attachment (often a PDF or DOC file). This attachment could be malicious software (malware) disguised as a bill that infects your device when opened.
Suspicious Links: The email might pressure you to “click here” to update your account information, verify your identity, or make a payment. Clicking such links can lead to fraudulent websites designed to steal your login credentials or personal details when you enter them.
The Steal
Fake Login Pages: Clicking a phishing link might take you to a website that looks almost identical to the real website of the impersonated company. The hacker steals your credentials once you enter your username, password, or other sensitive information on this fake page.
Malware Downloads: Downloaded attachments can be malware that installs itself on your device. This malware can then steal your data, track your activity, or even lock you out of your device and demand a ransom to unlock it.
You can significantly reduce your chances of being a victim of phishing attacks by being prudent and smart when surfing online and checking your emails.
Don’t click on links that download files or open attachments in emails or social networks, even if they appear to come from a known and trusted source. If in doubt, open a new browser window and type the URL into the address bar.
Be very careful with emails that ask for confidential information, personal details, or banking information. Legitimate organizations, including financial institutions, will never request sensitive information by email.
Beware of shortened links.
Pay special attention to short links, especially on social networks. Cybercriminals often use these to trick you and send you to a fake site.
Cybercriminals can use these ‘fake’ sites to steal your data or carry out a download attack, infesting your device with malware.
Many phishing emails are pretty obvious. They contain a lot of typographical errors. Cybercriminals often make mistakes in these emails, sometimes even intentionally bypass spam filters, improve responses, and eliminate ‘smart’ recipients who will not fall into the trap.
Beware of Threats and Urgent Deadlines
Rarely will a reputable company need you to do something urgently. Generally, the threats and urgency that claim to be from a legitimate company are signs of phishing.
Some of these threats may include advising you to do something to prevent your account from being closed. For your safety, contacting the company through a known and trusted channel is best.
Surf safely with HTTPs
Use secure websites to navigate whenever possible, especially when sending confidential information online, such as credit card details.
It would be best to never use public Wi-Fi to bank, shop, or enter personal information online. If in doubt, use your mobile device connection; convenience should not precede security.
How To Secure Devices Against Phishing Emails: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to protect against phishing attacks?
There’s no single “best” way, but a layered approach combining awareness and security measures is most effective:
User Awareness: Being skeptical of unexpected emails, especially those creating a sense of urgency or fear, is crucial. Don’t click on suspicious links or attachments.
Email Filtering: Most email providers offer spam filters that can catch some phishing attempts. However, these filters aren’t foolproof, so stay vigilant.
Anti-Phishing Software: Consider anti-phishing software that can detect and block malicious emails or warn you before visiting known phishing websites.
Strong Passwords & Two-Factor Authentication: Use unique, complex passwords for all your accounts and enable two-factor authentication whenever possible for an extra layer of security.
What is the best way to protect against phishing attacks on mobile devices?
Phishing scams increasingly target mobile devices. Here are some additional tips:
Download Apps Only from Official Stores: Avoid downloading apps from untrusted sources, as they might contain malware.
Beware of Free Wi-Fi: Public Wi-Fi networks are not secure. Avoid accessing sensitive information like bank accounts or entering passwords on public Wi-Fi.
Keep Mobile OS Updated: Ensure your mobile operating system has the latest security updates installed. These updates often patch vulnerabilities that hackers might exploit.
Be Wary of SMS Phishing (Smishing): Similar to email phishing, scammers might send text messages urging you to click links or call suspicious numbers. Be cautious of such messages.
How are computers secured against phishing?
The strategies mentioned above apply to computers as well. Additionally, consider:
Web Browser Security Settings: Enable features like pop-up blocking and website spoofing warnings in your web browser settings.
Regular Security Scans: Regularly scan your computer with antivirus and anti-malware software to detect and remove potential threats.
What is the best defense against phishing emails?
A healthy dose of skepticism is your best defense. If an email seems too good to be true, it probably is. Always double-check before clicking or opening anything suspicious. When in doubt, directly contact the supposed sender through a verified channel (phone number from the official website, not the email itself) to confirm the email’s legitimacy.
What To Do Next When You Are A Victim Of A Phishing Email Attack?
If you mistakenly revealed your credit card number and PIN or opened an email attachment, you need to react quickly and take appropriate action:
Contact your financial institution, check your account transactions, and block your account directly.
Document the incident in as much detail as possible and file a criminal complaint.
Also, set a new password for your email account. In this way, you can stop possible misuse of your mailbox.
It would be best to inform the real provider about fake emails or websites.
Consult an anti-cyber-fraud service company such as SpyCloud to hunt down the perpetrators.
Prevention is known to be the best medicine. Also, in your computer environment, Use a firewall antivirus an software, update your browser and operating systems, and perform regular security updates. You can check out our Deals page for the best protection tools.
Applying the abovementioned tips, you should be able to secure your devices against phishing emails.
I will show you everything you need to know about session hijacking here.
When a visitor lands on a site, the first thing between the user and the site is session creation. The website authenticates the user, and the session is created. Sessions are an essential part of communication between two parties.
Session IDs are usually stored in the form of cookies. If the hackers can get these cookies, they can take over the user session and use the session ID on that website to do a lot of damage without being detected.
Table of Contents
What Is Session Hijacking?
Session hijacking occurs when a scammer steals the session information from HTTP cookies, URL, page header, or active session body.
In this way, the web user’s session is stolen from him by the attacker, who pretends to be the real user and can do anything the user has the privilege to do on the network.
During a single connection, the series of interactions between two communicating parties is called a session. When you log into an application, a session is generated on the webserver for other requests from the same user to manage the current interactions.
Sessions are used by these applications to keep the client’s appropriate information. For the time the user stays active on a network, the session remains alive.
The session gets destroyed once the user has logged out or has not performed any activity for a while. A session ID comprises a long random mixture of alphabets and numerals.
These are preserved in cookies, web pages, etc. The intruder typically attacks the session cookie, which is called cookie hijacking.
Session hijacking is almost similar to plane hijacking. In an airplane hijacking, the attackers launch a systematic attack on the plane and take control of it. The same happens in session hijacking.
There are different ways of session hijacking, as mentioned below:
Session Sniffing
Cross-site Scripting (XSS)
Session Fixation
Man in the Browser
Predictable Session ID
1.Session Sniffing
When the communication between the user and the webserver is insecure, and the session ID is being sent in unencrypted form, the intruder can take advantage of this and steal the session ID that they can use for malicious.
Hackers can use tools like Wireshark OWASP Zed to monitor information flow containing session IDs between the client and the server. Once they get the session ID, they can access it without authorization.
2. Cross-site Scripting (XSS)
Cross-site scripting is one of the most dangerous techniques used for session hijacking. The attacker adds the malicious code to a real website or an application to inject the user’s web browser’s spiteful scripts.
When the user visits that site or opens that application, he is attacked by the scammers. The malicious code can be messages, forums, links, etc., on a legitimate server.
To deceive the users, the hackers may send them a known session ID. It can be done by sending a link through email.
Users are directed to a legal login form when clicking the link. The user confirms the connection and becomes a victim of session hijacking by the scammers’ session key.
4.Man in the Browser
A man-in-the-browser attack infects the users’ computers with a Trojan (a virus often assumed to be genuine software). The attacker hijacks the session when the user installs the software and visits a target site.
The man in the browser can do anything with transactions the user can perform. They can make new transactions, but the web server cannot identify the invalid asocess because it comes from the user’s computer.
5. Predictable Session ID
Many websites use easy algorithms to create a session ID. If the hacker monitors various session IDs, he may be able to predict valid ones.
Here are the tips that are used to prevent session hijacking:
1. Install an SSL Certificate
Data transmission happens between the user and the server during a session. If the website does not have an SSL certificate, the information is not secure, and hackers can easily read it. So, the attacker can take over the login information shared through this non-secure connection.
If you install an SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) on your website, the data transmission is encrypted and beyond scammers’. Even if someone gets to the encrypted data being exchanged, they will be unable to read and understand this, as they cannot decrypt the information.
You can buy an SSL certificate from any popular SSL certificate provider like Comodo, DigiCert, Symantec, GeoTrust, etc. However, you should consider buying an SSL certificate if your site has one domain and multiple sub-domains.
2.Security Plugins
Installing security plugins can help you stay protected from hacking. Whenever a hacker sends malware or spiteful code to your site, the plugin’s firewall will alert you about this activity, and you can block it before falling prey to it.
3. Update and Harden your Website
Keep updating your website whenever a new update is available. If you are running an outdated server software, the hacker may find any vulnerabilities in it and harm you. You should use strong usernames and passwords, block PHP execution, etc., to harden your website.
How Can Users Safeguard Themselves from Cookie Stealing?
As a user, you must take security precautions that are mentioned below while visiting a website:
1. Antivirus Installation
You should install antivirus software on your computer. This software monitors everything you download from the internet or transfer through flash drives. When you visit a suspicious website, they inform you of the alarming content present on that site.
2. Avoid Clicking Suspicious Links
The hackers can send you links through emails or comment sections on the website. Do not click on un-trusted links, especially those that woo you with prizes and rewards.
3. Do not Store Sensitive Information
It is a convenient way to save your browser passwords and auto-log into the websites. Likewise, you can save your credit card/banking details on shopping websites for faster checkouts.
It will surely save you time but can also put you in danger. There is a huge risk of your data being stolen. So, it is strongly recommended that you should not save your sensitive information on your browser.
4. Clear Cookies
If you are using Google Chrome, go to history, select “Clear browsing history,” and tick the checkbox “Clear cookies and other site data.”
Select the time range of your choice and click ‘clear data’; all the cookies in the selected period will be removed. This will remove any sensitive information stored on the browser.
Rounding Up
Managing an online business is not an easy task. You need to take care of hundreds of things while running an online trade.
It would be best to take all the security precautions to protect your website, business, clients, and customers from any attack. You cannot ignore the security aspects, as it will ruin your business.
As an internet user, you need to protect your site/computer from session hijacking risks while being online. Do not forget the above-mentioned important tips to stay safe while browsing.
Read on for the Surfshark One vs Surfshark VPN comparison.
Surfshark is one name that frequently comes up when discussing online security. However, it’s easy to get confused about which of the platform’s solutions to use. For instance, most people find it difficult to choose between Surfshark One and Surfshark VPN.
If you’re in such a position, you should first understand what each one offers before making a decision. That’s what we aim to uncover in this Surfshark One vs Surfshark VPN comparison article.
So, read on.
Table of Contents
What Is Surfshark One?
Surfshark One is a software suite for complete online protection. It includes a VPN. Antivirus, alert, and search tool.
As a result, you can use it to browse the web safely, keep your devices safe from viruses, get notifications if your data leaks online, or search the web without leaving any trace.
Basically, the One suite contains all Surfshark tools. So, rather than purchasing each solution independently, you can get them all at once when you pay for Surfshark One.
As you’d expect, then, the suite’s price is higher than other standalone Surfshark tools.
Surfshark One
Surfshark One is a cybersecurity bundle that provides users with Surfshark VPN, Alert, Search, and Antivirus that...Show More
Surfshark One is a cybersecurity bundle that provides users with Surfshark VPN, Alert, Search, and Antivirus that combines security, privacy, and convenience into one powerful package. Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Show Less
What Is Surfshark VPN?
Surfshark VPN is a standalone software that lets you browse the internet safely and anonymously.
It’s a popular solution, top-rated by popular publications like Techradar and Cnet. You can install it as an app on Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linus, and Fire TV. Surfshark VPN also has browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.
When you sign up for the VPN app, you get access to thousands of servers in countries across the world. The solution also offers staunch encryption, ensuring there’s no room for breach.
Furthermore, the multiple protocols supported make it flexible, and it’s noteworthy that you can use the app on unlimited devices.
Surfshark
Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Surfshark VPN has servers located in...Show More
Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Surfshark VPN has servers located in more than 60 countries worldwide. Show Less
Surfshark One vs Surfshark VPN: Features Comparison
Let’s dive deeper into Surfshark One and Surfshark VPN features to see how both compare.
Getting Started
Surfshark One
To use Surfshark One, you first need to visit the official website. Then, click on the Get Surfshark One button, and you’ll be redirected to a checkout page. Pick your preferred plan, and on the next page, you’ll get a rundown of all Surfshark One bundle tools:
Select Add & Continue. Then, enter your email address or log in with your Google or Apple account. Then you can make a payment.
Surfshark lets you pay using crypto, PayPal, Apple Pay, or Amazon Pay. So, select a preferred option and enter the correct details to complete the transaction.
Once your transaction is successful, you’ll be redirected to your Surfshark One dashboard. From there, you can access all the tools.
Surfshark One
Surfshark One is a cybersecurity bundle that provides users with Surfshark VPN, Alert, Search, and Antivirus that...Show More
Surfshark One is a cybersecurity bundle that provides users with Surfshark VPN, Alert, Search, and Antivirus that combines security, privacy, and convenience into one powerful package. Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Show Less
Surfshark VPN
Surfshark VPN has a mobile app for all major devices. So, to get started, visit your application store and download. You can also download it from the official website.
It’s possible to sign up on the website simply. However, the VPN isn’t a web tool, so you’ll still need to download an app. But if you want to run it via your browser, go for the extension.
If you download and install the Surfshark VPN app or browser extension, you can start using it without paying. Just complete the quick sign-up form, and the app will let you access some servers for free.
When you decide to upgrade, simply click the Pick a Plan button and select Subscribe.
Surfshark
Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Surfshark VPN has servers located in...Show More
Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Surfshark VPN has servers located in more than 60 countries worldwide. Show Less
Verdict
Surfshark VPN wins here since you can just download the app and start using it without making a payment. However, it’s understandable, considering Surfshark VPN is a standalone product, while Surfshark One is a software suite — which also includes Surfshark VPN.
Supported Tools
Surfshark One
Surfshark One features the following tools:
VPN
Antivirus
Search
Alert
With the VPN, you can mask your online traffic and surf websites anonymously. In addition, the data you send and receive are encrypted via a secure tunnel to prevent access by any malicious party. Note that the VPN here is the Surfshark VPN, which we’re comparing against.
Next is the Surfshark Antivirus tool. As you’d expect, it keeps your devices free from malware. You get real-time protection, as the tool runs 24/7. Also, the antivirus supports customizations, allowing you to schedule scans at different periods. It’s worth mentioning that the tool comes with webcam protection.
For the Searchsolution, you get a lightweight tool to source information from the web. The advantage here is that the search results are organic. That’s unlike sites like Google that display results based on your region. You also get to search without worrying about ads and trackers.
Finally, the Alerttool checks for online data breaches. You provide your information, and it scans the web and notifies you if you’re at risk. Data you can add include credit card details, emails, passwords, and ID numbers, among others.
Surfshark One
Surfshark One is a cybersecurity bundle that provides users with Surfshark VPN, Alert, Search, and Antivirus that...Show More
Surfshark One is a cybersecurity bundle that provides users with Surfshark VPN, Alert, Search, and Antivirus that combines security, privacy, and convenience into one powerful package. Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Show Less
Surfshark VPN
Surfshark VPN is solely a virtual private network software. However, while it doesn’t feature other tools, it does come with notable features that extend its functionality. First, you get 3,200+ servers in about 100 countries. That’s a high number you won’t get with many top VPN tools
To ensure fast and secure browsing, Surfshark VPN supports three different protocols, including:
WireGuard
IKEv2/IPsec
OpenVPN UDP / TCP
Furthermore, there’s a strict no-logs policy, meaning the app won’t track any of your browsing activity. However, the exclusive features that amplify the VPNs performance include:
CleanWeb: allows you to browse without ads and trackers.
MultiHop: lets you connect to two VPN servers at the same time, enhancing anonymity.
Cookie pop-up blocker: ensures you don’t deal with annoying pop-ups by automatically hiding them in the background.
IP rotator: makes your IP untraceable by changing it at regular intervals.
Bypasser: supports customizing the VPN to only work on specific apps and programs.
Surfshark
Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Surfshark VPN has servers located in...Show More
Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Surfshark VPN has servers located in more than 60 countries worldwide. Show Less
Verdict
The winner here is Surfshark One, as it features multiple tools. Surfshark VPN performs impressively too, but all its features are still part of the Surfshark One suite.
Supported Devices
Surfshark One
Surfshark One is advertised as a web solution. That’s mainly because most of the tools are only accessible via a browser. For instance, you can only use the Alert and Search tools online — none have applications. However, the VPN and Antivirus tools have standalone apps.
Notably, the VPN tool has the highest device support. The full list, as featured on the Surfshark website, includes:
Android
Windows
iOS
macOS
Linux
FireTV
Smart TVs (Apple TV, Samsung TV, Android TV)
Browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Edge)
Game consoles (Playstation, Xbox)
Routers
For the Antivirus tool, you can install it on Windows, macOS, and Android. No iOS app is available at the moment.
Surfshark VPN
You can install the Surfshark VPN on almost all top platforms. If you’re using a laptop or desktop, you can install it if it’s Windows, Mac, or Linux OS. Alternatively, you can add the extension to your browser if you use Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Microsoft Edge.
However, suppose you prefer accessing the web via your smartphone. In that case, you can install the VPN if you use Android or iOS. Other supported devices include FireTV and smart TVs like Apple TV, Samsung TV, and Android TV.
If you own a home router, it’s still possible to set up Surfshark VPN to protect your network. Also, the app will work for game consoles like Xbox and PlayStation.
Verdict
Surfshark VPN supports many device types, but Surfshark One supports the same and is still available online. Therefore, the better option here is Surfshark One.
Security
Surfshark One
Surfshark One uses AES-256 encryption, which blocks your online traffic from prying eyes. No one — not hackers, your ISP, or government agencies — can monitor what you do on the web. You alone get access to browsing data.
Furthermore, the suite supports the WireGuard protocol as default on all apps, especially the VPN. The advantage here is that you get a fast and secure connection. That’s because the protocol optimizes the apps’ performance.
Of course, the tools in the Surfshark One suite all work towards security. The antivirus blocks malware, the alert solution checks for breaches, and the search feature lets you browse without ads and trackers. The bottom line is that Surfshark One is a comprehensive security suite.
Surfshark VPN
The focus here is on the security features of the VPN in the Surfshark One suite. So, Surfshark VPN uses the same AES-256 military-grade encryption. In addition, the app also supports the WireGuard protocol.
By VPN standards, this Surfshark solution has many more first-rate security features. These include features like the kill switch, camouflage mode, no borders mode, and multi-hop, to name a few. You won’t find these many options on many VPN solutions.
A feature you can’t skip is CleanWeb. You can eliminate ads, trackers, scam sites, and online malware when you activate the option. With this, the Surfshark VPN can work as the search and antivirus tool in the Surfshark One suite.
Verdict
Surfshark One wins again as it encompasses all the security features of the Surfshark VPN as well as other tools. Standalone, the VPN is still a top-notch secure solution.
Surfshark One vs Surfshark VPN: Customer Service
No comparison is obtainable here because, since the Surfshark VPN and Surfshark One are from the same company, they feature the same customer support.
So, irrespective of which you use, the foremost support option is the Help Center. On the page, you can then navigate to resources about the VPN or One Suite.
Furthermore, direct support is available via email or live chat. You’ll find the options in the help center when you scroll to the bottom page. Live chat is the fastest option if you want real-time support.
Surfshark has three main pricing plans, including Surfshark Starter, Surfshark One, and Surfshark One+.
So, to get the Surfshark One suite, you’ll subscribe to any of the last two. Clearly, the One+ plan comes with more features.
Notably, you can pay per month, annually, or every two years.
Here are the pricing plans:
Surfshark One
1-month plan: $14.99 per month
1-year plan (plus 2 free months): $3.49 per month (billed at $48.86; you save 77%)
2 years plan (plus 4 free months): $2.69 per month (billed at $75.32; you save 82%)
Surfshark One+
1-month plan: $21.99 per month
1-year plan (plus 2 free months): $5.49 per month (billed at $76.86; you save 75%)
2 years plan (plus 4 free months): $3.99 per month (billed at $55.72; you save 82%)
Note that the difference between Surfshark One and Surfshark One+ is that the latter includes Incogni — another Surfshark service that removes your data from broker sites. You can read more about the service in this in-depth Incogni review.
Surfshark One
Surfshark One is a cybersecurity bundle that provides users with Surfshark VPN, Alert, Search, and Antivirus that...Show More
Surfshark One is a cybersecurity bundle that provides users with Surfshark VPN, Alert, Search, and Antivirus that combines security, privacy, and convenience into one powerful package. Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Show Less
To get just the Surfshark VPN, you’ll subscribe to the Surfshark Starter plan. Check out the pricing below:
1-month plan: $10.99 per month
1-year plan (plus 2 free months): $2.99 per month (billed at $41.86; you save 73%)
2 years plan (plus 4 free months): $1.99 per month (billed at $55.72; you save 82%)
Surfshark
Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Surfshark VPN has servers located in...Show More
Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Surfshark VPN has servers located in more than 60 countries worldwide. Show Less
Verdict
Surfshark VPN is the more affordable option, which is expected since it’s a standalone app, while Surfshark One is a suite. Also, if you purchase Surfshark One, you get the VPN along with the other tools.
Surfshark VPN vs Surfshark One: Pros And Cons
Surfshark One Pros
A suite of multiple tools
Includes the Surfshark VPN
Supports multiple devices
Available via the web
Helpful support resources
Surfshark One Cons
Requires payment from the onset
Pricing is higher than Surfshark VPN
Surfshark One
Surfshark One is a cybersecurity bundle that provides users with Surfshark VPN, Alert, Search, and Antivirus that...Show More
Surfshark One is a cybersecurity bundle that provides users with Surfshark VPN, Alert, Search, and Antivirus that combines security, privacy, and convenience into one powerful package. Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Show Less
Surfshark VPN Pros
Up to 3,200 servers
Unblocks restricted websites
Supports multiple device types
Available as a browser extension
Supports multiple protocols
Blocks ads and pop-ups
Surfshark VPN Cons
Lower features compared to Surfshark One
No dedicated router app
Surfshark
Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Surfshark VPN has servers located in...Show More
Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Surfshark VPN has servers located in more than 60 countries worldwide. Show Less
Surfshark VPN Vs Surfshark One: Similarities And Differences
Similarities
Both Surfshark One and Surfshark VPN offer unlimited data and bandwidth.
Both products use military-grade encryption to protect your online traffic.
Both Surfshark VPN and Surfshark One have a strict no-logs policy, which means that they do not track or store your browsing activity.
Both Surfshark VPN and Surfshark One offer multi-device support, so you can use them on all of your devices.
Both Surfshark One and Surfshark VPN offer a kill switch, which will automatically disconnect you from the internet if your VPN connection drops.
Both Surfshark VPN and Surfshark One offer a whitelister, which allows you to specify certain websites or apps that you do not want to route through the VPN.
Differences
Surfshark VPN is a VPN service, while Surfshark One is a bundle that includes Surfshark VPN, as well as additional security and privacy features, such as antivirus, dark web monitoring, a private search engine, and an anonymous email address.
Surfshark VPN is generally less expensive than Surfshark One.
Surfshark One is a better option for users who want comprehensive online protection, while Surfshark VPN is a good option for users who are simply looking for a VPN to protect their online privacy.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between Surfshark VPN and Surfshark One:
Feature
Surfshark VPN
Surfshark One
Price
Starts at $1.99 per month
Starts at $2.69 per month
Features
VPN
VPN, Antivirus, Alert, Search, Alternative ID
Data and bandwidth
Unlimited
Unlimited
Servers
3200+ in 100 countries
3200+ in 100 countries
No-logs policy
Yes
Yes
Encryption
Military-grade
Military-grade
Multi-device support
Yes
Yes
Kill switch
Yes
Yes
Whitelister
Yes
Yes
Surfshark One vs Surfshark VPN: Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between Surfshark and Surfshark One?
Surfshark VPN is the core product: a Virtual Private Network that encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP address. It’s a great choice for anyone who wants to:
Browse the web privately and securely
Access geo-restricted content
Bypass censorship
Surfshark One, however, is a bundle that includes Surfshark VPN along with additional security and privacy features:
Surfshark Antivirus: Protects your devices from malware, viruses, and phishing attempts. (Currently available for Android, Windows, and macOS)
Surfshark Search: A private search engine that doesn’t track your searches.
Surfshark Alert: Monitors the web for data breaches that might expose your personal information.
Alternative ID (limited availability): Generates anonymized identifiers for specific websites or services, reducing reliance on real personal information.
Does Surfshark One come with a VPN?
Yes, Surfshark One includes the full-featured Surfshark VPN service. It’s the VPN protection with the added security and privacy features mentioned above.
Is there a better VPN than Surfshark?
There’s no single “best” VPN, as it depends on your specific needs and priorities. Surfshark is a well-regarded VPN provider, but other options exist. Consider factors like:
Speed: How fast is the VPN connection?
Server network: How many servers and locations does the VPN offer?
Security features: Does the VPN offer strong encryption and other security protocols?
Privacy practices: Does the VPN have a no-logs policy, and how does it handle user data?
Price: How much does the VPN subscription cost?
What is the difference between Surfshark Starter and One+?
Surfshark doesn’t offer a “starter” plan, but it might have promotions or limited-time offers. Surfshark One+ is another bundle option that includes everything in Surfshark One, plus additional features like data breach monitoring for your family members and a built-in password manager (limited availability).
How many devices can use Surfshark One on?
Both Surfshark VPN and Surfshark One allow you to connect unlimited devices simultaneously. This is a major advantage compared to many VPN providers that limit connections.
How much is Surfshark One per month?
Surfshark pricing varies depending on your subscription term (typically one month, six months, or two years). Generally, Surfshark One costs a bit more monthly than Surfshark VPN alone. However, opting for a longer subscription term can bring the monthly price down significantly. Check the official Surfshark website for current pricing details.
Conclusion
Clearly, Surfshark One and Surfshark VPN are two different products from the same company.
The former is a software suite that includes the latter, so it’s easy to conclude which is the better tool. Surfshark One takes the upper hand since it features the VPN and other tools.
Surfshark One
Surfshark One is a cybersecurity bundle that provides users with Surfshark VPN, Alert, Search, and Antivirus that...Show More
Surfshark One is a cybersecurity bundle that provides users with Surfshark VPN, Alert, Search, and Antivirus that combines security, privacy, and convenience into one powerful package. Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Show Less
In terms of pricing, however, Surfshark One is more expensive, which is expected. If you’re on a low budget, then go for the Surfshark VPN. You can start using it for free and subscribe when you want.
However, if you have the money, the best option is to purchase the Surfshark One suite and access all tools at a go.
Surfshark
Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Surfshark VPN has servers located in...Show More
Surfshark is an award-winning VPN service for keeping your digital life secure. Surfshark VPN has servers located in more than 60 countries worldwide. Show Less
