Category Archives: Consumer Alerts

Meltdown and Spectre: Yes, your device is likely vulnerable

Details have emerged this week regarding two different—and both substantial—security flaws in almost every computer processor in use today. This affects Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS. It’s important to note that as of yet, no malware or cyberattack has been associated with these flaws, but now that the information is in the public domain, that could change. Either of the flaws could lead to your computer’s memory being compromised, which means sensitive data—passwords, photos, credit card details—can be accessed and stolen. Here’s a breakdown of the two vulnerabilities:

Cybersecurity: Reality Check

      No Comments on Cybersecurity: Reality Check

Avast asked small business owners and employees about their current concerns on a number of topics: from hacking and ransomware to mobile security and artificial intelligence. We then researched facts, stats and quotes related to each topic to see whether people’s concerns were corroborated by real world events, or whether we’re needlessly anxious…

Which IoT device scares me the most?

      No Comments on Which IoT device scares me the most?

I was thinking about Jeff Weiner’s question to identify a single product or feature that you cannot do without. For me, it is easy to pay that accolade to Tesla’s self-driving autopilot. Every time I am stuck in Bay Area traffic, I allow the car to drive itself while I engage in creative thinking or relax with an audiobook. This is the perfect example of what technology should do—take on the monotonous work and do it better than a human being can.

Consumers beware: New malware Catelites Bot could be targeting your banking apps

There is a terrible new malware invading Android devices and using dirty tricks to steal users’ online banking info. Avast Threat Labs worked with SfyLabs to uncover and expose this malware, dubbed Catelites Bot. The malware is similar to a Russian outbreak earlier this year, where cybercriminals successfully stole over $900,000. (That malware was called “CronBot”—which shares similarities with the original Catelites Bot.)

Give the gift of privacy: Avast SecureLine VPN

      No Comments on Give the gift of privacy: Avast SecureLine VPN

At a time when almost every holiday present is an IoT device—connected gadgets that can put your privacy and safety at risk—why not think one better, and gift your loved ones with online privacy instead? VPNs (virtual private networks) are secure lines to the internet. They protect users by masking their real IP address and encrypting their data.

What Santa might not tell you about connected toys

Oh, the simple days of aisle wars over Tickle Me Elmo, Cabbage Patch Kids, and Teddy Ruxpin …  In 2017, the hottest, must-have holiday toys have taken on a whole new twist. Two cases in point: LEGO BOOST Creative Toolbox – the customizable robot that lets you code its behavior via an app and complete activities; and FurReal Friends – a collection of robotic pets that attempt to emulate domestic animals, right down to their personalities.