Freshman Fraud 101: The Digital Scams Targeting College Students (and How to Stop Them)

Kim Key — Tue, 28 Jul 2026 13:19:59 +0000

From phishing emails to fake job offers, scammers don’t wait for midterms—new students are being targeted from day one. I spoke with security experts to find out how to stay a step ahead.

A long time ago, at a university not so far away, my biggest fear as an incoming college student was gaining the dreaded "freshman fifteen." These days, students have a lot more important things to worry about, as scammers are targeting …

I Was Fed Up With Spam Calls. Here's How I Silenced Them for Good

Kim Key — Thu, 16 Jul 2026 12:18:53 +0000

Robocalls, scammers, and unknown callers make answering the phone a minefield. Good news! You don't have to put up with them. My tips will help you block 'em all.

Though the FCC has tried to crack down on spam calls and texts for years, and federal and state lawmakers have passed legislation to address the problem, the plague persists. I recommend, for starters, screening your …

The Best Identity Theft Protection Software for 2026

Neil J. Rubenking — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 20:38:42 +0000

Identity theft can empty your bank account, destroy your credit rating, and leave you struggling with debts you didn’t incur. These are the top services we've tested to prevent, detect, and remediate identity theft.

Is It Worth Paying for Identity Theft Protection?

You don't need a security suite if you can guarantee you’ll never encounter a virus or other malware. And if you can guarantee nobody will ever steal your identity, you don’t need an ID theft protection service. But you can’t. The question is, …

Can You Stay On Windows 10? I Wouldn't, Unless You Follow These Steps to Protect Your PC

Neil J. Rubenking — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 13:10:37 +0000

Official support for Windows 10 has ended, and its security certificates are expiring. Your system is at risk, and Microsoft wants you to upgrade. But an extra year of extended support can grant you some extra time.

Although many users still haven't upgraded to Windows 11, Microsoft hasn't made it easy to stay on Windows 10. Microsoft cut off Secure Boot certificates in June, and not every PC is compatible with Windows 11. With …

Shop Safe Online: 4 Tricks I Use for Every Purchase

Kim Key — Sun, 28 Jun 2026 14:00:00 +0000

Every online purchase can expose more than you think. These four simple tricks help keep your credit card, email, and address out of the wrong hands.

Whenever a company loses, sells, or shares customer information, like credit card numbers, passwords, names, or physical addresses, there’s a rash of scary headlines trumpeting the need to change your passwords or cancel your credit or debit cards. The company

The Best Personal Data Removal Services for 2026

Neil J. Rubenking — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 13:45:44 +0000

As you enter personal information on the web, data aggregators gather and sell it. Protect your privacy by using one of the top personal data removal services we've tested.

Who Is Gathering Your Personal Data?

There are two main types of sites that collect your personal data: people search sites and data brokers. Data brokers scrape your personal data across the web, package it into a profile, and sell it to anyone who is willing to buy. Primarily, their customers …

I Ask Anti-Fraud Experts How to Protect Older Adults from Scams. Here’s What Works

Kim Key — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 18:39:04 +0000

Criminals target older people more than any other demographic. Here are eight expert-approved tips to protect your parents, grandparents, and other elders from losing data, money, (or both!) to scammers.

According to a recent AARP study, nine out of 10 US adults over 50 use social media, and texting is now the leading form of communication for that demographic. The numbers show that many older adults are very comfortable interacting online, making them prime targets …

The World Cup Is Here, and So Are the Scams. How to Avoid Fake Tickets, Bogus Merch, and More

Kim Key — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 15:45:56 +0000

The 2026 World Cup has officially kicked off, which means scammers are out in force. Fake tickets, fake streaming sites, crypto traps, scam betting apps, and more are all targeting eager fans. Here's how to avoid them.

The World Cup is underway, and in addition to demonstrating athletic excellence, the event unites just about everyone across cultures and borders. I say "just about everyone" because scammers never take a day off, not even for the World Cup. Between fake tickets and merch, ads for phishing websites that …

Your Phone Has a Hidden Defense Against Scam Texts—And It’s Probably Turned Off

Kim Key — Sun, 14 Jun 2026 12:33:12 +0000

Your phone comes with built-in spam text protection, but it might be turned off by default. I'll tell you how to change that on both iPhone and Android.

Before I changed my phone's settings, I would get multiple texts each day from local political candidates, car warranty salespeople, health care assistance, and more. If that sounds familiar, your number was probably leaked following a data breach and ended up on a list on …

This Nightmare AI Scam Is Making Parents Believe Their Child Has Been Abducted

Kim Key — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 12:30:01 +0000

A chilling new scam uses AI to clone your child's voice, tricking parents into paying ransom. Here's how the horror unfolds—and how to avoid it.

The phone rings. When you pick up, or when you listen to the voicemail, you hear what sounds like your child, frantic and scared, saying they’ve been kidnapped. They tell you to pay the kidnapper, usually using cryptocurrency, then the call abruptly ends.

If you guessed the voice is AI, …

This AI Kidnapping Scam Is Every Parent's Worst Nightmare

Kim Key — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 15:17:41 +0000

A frantic call. Your child's voice. A demand for money. Scammers are weaponizing AI-generated voices, and parents are in the crosshairs. Here's how the scam works—and how to stop it.

It’s a parent’s worst nightmare: A frantic, unexpected call from what sounds like your child, saying they’ve been kidnapped. The child tells you to pay the criminal, usually using cryptocurrency, then the call ends.

If you guessed the voice is AI, you’re correct. But most parents who receive a message …

Summer Travel Warning: Your Vacation Could Be a Scam Waiting to Happen

Kim Key — Sat, 16 May 2026 12:32:25 +0000

Fake bookings, phishing texts, and AI-powered tricks are targeting travelers this summer. Here's how to spot them and fight back before you book.

As you peruse your favorite travel apps on the hunt for the best vacation deals for spring and summer, online scammers are also searching for you. Adopting a healthy amount of skepticism can help fend off would-be scam artists. That may mean changing some of …

Hackers Love the Way You Use the Internet: Here's an Easy Way to Change That

Kim Key — Sat, 09 May 2026 13:49:43 +0000

If you get overwhelmed trying to secure your digital life, don't worry. I'm here to help you lock down your devices, clean up your online presence, and cut back on the data tech companies harvest from you.

When my dad built me my first computer and encouraged me to explore online, he didn't post a list of cybersecurity best practices on my wall. Instead, he gave me several free hours of AOL access via a shiny CD and a noisy modem and told me to have fun. …

Is It a Virus, Malware, or Spyware? Here's How to Tell (and Why It Matters)

Neil J. Rubenking — Thu, 07 May 2026 17:47:50 +0000

From viruses to spyware, we break down the key differences so you know exactly what you're dealing with.

An antivirus utility that only defends against viruses would be nearly useless. Computer viruses are just one type of threat, and not a common one at that. A proper antivirus program defends against all kinds of malicious software. When we encourage you to install antivirus …

3 Surprisingly Simple Tricks for Strong Passwords You’ll Never Forget

Neil J. Rubenking — Thu, 07 May 2026 10:06:25 +0000

Forget sticky notes and password resets. Follow these three easy tips to create passwords you can actually remember—and no one else can guess.

More than 20 years ago, Bill Gates declared password technology dead. It's true that lots of websites these days allow login using passkeys instead. But they still support passwords as a backup. Most of us still use passwords every day, dozens or even hundreds …

Think Before You Tap: Don't Fall for These 9 Viral Social Media Scams

Kim Key — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 18:46:20 +0000

Millions of people fall victim to scams that start with a simple direct message. I'll show you how to spot the most common tactics and keep yourself safe on Facebook, Instagram, and other social platforms.

I eliminated my social media presence, and I've never felt better. Try it! I've experienced pretty significant mental and social health improvements thanks to not reading everyone's thoughts in a public forum, and as an amazing bonus, I also get fewer scam emails,

I Ditched Password Generators and Made a Better One in Excel. Here's How

Neil J. Rubenking — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 11:49:27 +0000

Because many password generators aren't as random as they seem, I built an improved one in Excel—and I'll show you exactly how you can, too.

A 2024 survey by NordPass found that the average consumer has to juggle 168 passwords. Only a savant could memorize that many different passwords, so people cut corners. Some use easy passwords like a favorite pet’s name or a relative’s birthday. Others work …

Spam Calls Are Out of Control. Here's How I Silenced Them for Good

Kim Key — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 16:24:47 +0000

If you never answer your phone anymore, I don't blame you. Thanks to robocalls, scammers, and unknown callers, who would want to pick up? You don't have to put up with it, though. I have tips to stem the tide.

Your phone rings and you don't recognize the number. Do you pick up? Of course not; you let it go to voicemail, and if it's important, they'll leave a message. Sound familiar? According to a YouGov survey, more than 40% of US respondents also said …

Flying Internationally? Do This Before Border Agents Check Your Phone

Kim Key — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 15:04:28 +0000

Phone searches have hit record highs, and TSA staffing shortages mean airport lines are longer than ever. Follow these steps to secure your device and avoid delays before your flight.

If you're headed to the airport, you're probably carrying your phone, loaded with personal information. Your boarding pass, flight information, hotel reservations, all of it is there right alongside other details like your social media, emails, photos, and more. That's why handing it over to a stranger—especially while traveling internationally—can …

Does That Job Seem to Good to Be True? It's Probably a Scam

Kim Key — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 15:22:57 +0000

Criminals have been using job posting platforms to prey on desperate seekers for years, but AI is making their schemes even more sinister—and effective.

Searching for a job at any time is stressful, but today's job market is particularly taxing. According to a recent report from outplacement firm Challenger, Gray, and Christmas, US employers eliminated 108,000 jobs in January. Not surprisingly, AI is responsible for a not-insignificant portion (7%) of …

Before You Share Another Photo on a Dating App, Read This

Kim Key — Wed, 18 Feb 2026 13:41:01 +0000

Online dating doesn't have to be risky. These tips from dating and relationship experts show how to protect your heart and your personal information.

No matter what you're looking for in a partner, there are dating apps designed to meet your needs. The diversity of choice is both a blessing and a curse, as research shows that dating apps require massive amounts of personal …

Swipe Left on These 5 Major Dating App Red Flags

Kim Key — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 21:14:26 +0000

From AI-generated photos to fast-moving "I love yous," scammers are evolving. These five warning signs can help you spot fraud before it's too late.

Remember The 5 Love Languages? The premise is that people perceive and show deep emotions through five distinct love languages. The names are trademarked, of course, but they boil down to doing favors, enjoying intimate moments, giving gifts, sharing kind words, and spending …

Windows 10 Security Alert: Do This Now to Reduce Your Risk of Being Hacked

PCMag Canada — Wed, 11 Feb 2026 16:17:15 +0000

Now that Windows 10 has reached the end of support, it's increasingly appealing to cybercriminals. While upgrading is recommended, you don't have to switch immediately—here's how you can keep your system secure in the meantime.

Support for Windows 10 ended last year, but despite the potential security risks, Windows 11 hasn't enticed many people to upgrade. Now, Microsoft is scrubbing features from it, ended last year, but given the lukewarm reaction to Windows 11, the potential security risks aren't enough reason for many people to upgrade. Microsoft recommends upgrading to Windows 11 or, even better, purchasing a new …

Traveling Abroad? Do This to Protect Your Phone Against Border Checks

PCMag Canada — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 16:17:23 +0000

Phone searches have hit record highs, and airport lines are at a breaking point. Follow these steps to secure your device and avoid delays at security.

Your phone likely contains more personal information than any other device you own. That's why handing it over to a stranger—especially while traveling internationally—can feel risky. These days, phone searches at the US border are becoming increasingly common, for reasons that aren’t always strictly security-related.

Remember that the criminals behind them to examining how they con their targets. I've also offered suggestions on …

I've Spent Years Covering Online Scams. These Are the Ones About to Surge in 2026

PCMag Canada — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 17:00:39 +0000

Scammers are getting faster, smarter, and more ruthless—and thanks to AI, 2026 may be their most profitable year yet. Here's what to look out for and how to stop scams before they start.

For years, I've covered the online scamming ecosystem, from reporting on the criminals behind scams to examining the methods they use to dupe targets, and offering ended last year, meaning that although millions of PCs are still running Windows 10, all of them are now vulnerable to security risks. Some users will

Hackers Are Targeting Windows 10. Do This One Thing to Stay Safe

PCMag Canada — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 18:28:33 +0000

The end of support for Windows 10 means it's now a prime target for malware. But that doesn't mean you have to upgrade to stay safe. Here's how to avoid an attack.

Support for Windows 10 ended on October 14, 2025. Despite millions of Windows users still on Windows 10, that date has come and gone, with all of those PCs now …

The Shady Emails Keep Coming. It's Time to Fight Back Against Spear Phishing

Kim Key — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 16:34:32 +0000

Targeted email scams are getting bolder and more convincing. Here's how they work, and the smartest ways to defend yourself.

What’s the shadiest email you received this week? I’ve already had two likely phishing attempts land in my work inbox, and I’m pretty sure neither one is a training exercise from our IT department. I’m not alone, as dodging constant, …

Stop SIM Swappers Cold: Protect Your Phone Number With These 7 Tips

Lance Whitney — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 17:02:51 +0000

With a SIM-swapping attack, scammers hijack your phone number to gain access to apps on your phone—including banking apps. These tips can help you safeguard your most private information.

SIM-swapping attacks present a potential risk to all mobile phone users. With this type of fraud, a hacker is able to take control of your phone number, allowing them to intercept phone calls and text messages, including multi-factor authentication codes. From there, they can access your personal information, hijack your …

Before You Blur Your Home on Google Maps, Read This

Kim Key — Fri, 05 Dec 2025 18:38:41 +0000

Want more privacy? You can easily hide your house on Google Street View. Just know you won't be able to undo it later.

We hope you never have to deal with someone targeting you specifically, such as a stalker, burglar, or another criminal seeking to profit from your personal information. And if you've had information about you used to create deepfaked videos, …

Is That Holiday Deal Too Good to Be True? Here's How to Tell If It's a Scam

Kim Key — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 19:05:31 +0000

The FBI has a message for holiday shoppers this year: Fake sellers are everywhere online, even on sites you trust. We show you what to look out for when browsing major marketplaces.

Each year, the FBI updates its guide on avoiding common internet shopping scams during the holiday season. The included tips are excellent, but one sentence stands out from the rest: "If it seems too good to be true, it …

Spam Calls Are Out of Control. Here’s How I Stopped Them

PCMag Canada — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 16:07:07 +0000

Thanks to unknown callers, robocalls, spammers, scammers, there's never been a better time to just not answer your phone. Don't put up with the deluge; here's how to stem the tide.

I don't think I've answered a phone call from a person who isn't in my contact list in over a decade. I'm not alone in this. According to a YouGov survey, more than 40% of respondents in the US said they never answer unknown calls, …

The Digital Black Market: How Your Data Is Bought, Sold, and Traded After a Breach

Justyn Newman — Mon, 29 Sep 2025 13:19:03 +0000

What happens to your info after a hack? Knowing this is essential for protecting yourself, so let's follow the trail.

Data breaches happen every day—and they're rarely random. Most stem from deliberate, targeted cyberattacks or the exploitation of overlooked security flaws, allowing criminals to infiltrate systems and steal sensitive information. This can include anything from email addresses and passwords to Social Security numbers, credit card …

Freshman Fraud 101: The Digital Scams Every Student (and Parent) Should Know

Kim Key — Thu, 25 Sep 2025 18:53:47 +0000

From phishing emails to fake job offers, scammers don’t wait for midterms—new students are being targeted from day one. Here's how to stay one step ahead.

A long time ago, at a university not so far away, my biggest fear as an incoming college student was gaining the dreaded “freshman fifteen.” These days, students have a lot more important things to worry about, as scammers are targeting …

This One Service Could Save Your Business from a Privacy Nightmare

Dhruv Bhutani — Thu, 25 Sep 2025 12:43:26 +0000

Leaked employee data can fuel phishing attacks and cause reputational harm and compliance violations. We explain how a data removal service can protect your business at scale—and how to pick the best one for your needs.

In today’s connected world, a simple online search can reveal everything from your home address to phone number, age, and even family connections. When this extends to employee data and executive contact details, it exposes businesses to an elevated level of risk. Data broker services—companies specializing in running background checks …

Doxxing Demystified: What It Is, How It Works, and How to Protect Yourself

Justyn Newman — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 19:53:18 +0000

One post is all it takes to become a target of doxxing. Learn how your online activity can be used against you and the steps you can take right now to safeguard your privacy.

The internet never forgets. With every post, comment, like, and share, you hand out information about yourself and your habits. Doxxing, short for “dropping documents,” is the act of leaking someone’s personal information with the intent to harass, humiliate, bully, or extort them. There’s no hard list of reasons someone …

Cryptocurrency Scammers Are Getting Sneakier. Here's How to Outsmart Them

Kim Key — Tue, 02 Sep 2025 16:42:08 +0000

Billions are lost every year to crypto scams. Here's what you need to consider before you invest in a new coin and how to report shady doings to the authorities.

Drastic price changes, minimal regulation, and the proliferation of coin-based scams make cryptocurrency a volatile market. If you're looking to invest, be careful. After all, the FBI recently reported that a group of people lost $225 million in a crypto …

Before You Fly Abroad, Secure Your Phone Against Border Checks

PCMag Canada — Tue, 02 Sep 2025 15:17:52 +0000

Traveling into or out of the US? Customs and Border Protection searches are at an all-time high, and agents may have the right to search your device. Here's how to prepare.

Your smartphone probably holds more personal information about you than any other device you own. So the last thing you’d want to do is hand over all that data to a stranger, especially when you’re traveling internationally.

The 4th Amendment of the US Constitution prevents “unreasonable …

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