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Safety Net

Sidestep scammers with smart online security and privacy advice from our experts.

Safety Net
Sidestep scammers with smart online security and privacy advice from our experts.

Latest Stories

Fraud Is Always a Red Card: How Scammers Are Exploiting World Cup Fever

From counterfeit FIFA merch to malicious betting apps, scammers are targeting soccer fans online. Here's how to spot the biggest scams before they cost you money or data.

By Kim Key
The world cup trophy against a blue background

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

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.

By Kim Key
A plane and luggage

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

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.

By Kim Key
checklist icons against a yellow background

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

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

By Neil J. Rubenking
Viruses, Spyware, and Malware: What's the Difference?

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

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

By Neil J. Rubenking
3 Simple Tricks for Remembering Strong Passwords

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

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.

By Kim Key
App icons against a pink background

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

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.

By Neil J. Rubenking
artistic depiction of a password field being filled

Still on Windows 10? Do This Now to Protect Your PC

Support for Windows 10 has ended, putting your system at risk. You don't have to upgrade—here's how to stay protected.

By Neil J. Rubenking
A large red alert warning is on a laptop screen, with an error message reading "End of Support for Windows 10"

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

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.

By Kim Key
A pair of humanoid robot hands holding a smartphone, with the right hand about to press the hang up button on a pending call

Flying Internationally? Do This Before Border Agents Check Your Phone

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.

By Kim Key
man walks through airport while looking a phone

The Best Identity Theft Protection Software for 2026

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.

By Neil J. Rubenking
 The Best Identity Theft Protection Software

The Best Personal Data Removal Services for 2026

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.

By Neil J. Rubenking
Best Personal Data Removal Services

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

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.

By Kim Key
A woman leans against a desk.

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

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.

By Kim Key
A person being cautious while holding a phone.

Swipe Left on These 5 Major Dating App Red Flags

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.

By Kim Key
A person struggling with a scammer.

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

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.

By Lance Whitney
sim card on a fish hook

Before You Blur Your Home on Google Maps, Read This

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

By Kim Key
A Google Maps pin icon over a line of homes

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

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.

By Kim Key
shopping carts against a purple background

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

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

By Justyn Newman
A broken lock in a digitized landscape

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

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.

By Kim Key
a laptop in the foreground with college-aged looking people in the background