Hackers, phishers, spammers, scammers, and loads of unsavory characters work hard to steal our personal information, turn our computers into ghost machines, and just break stuff.

So it’s continuously paramount that we use some sort of software designed for our protection, like one of these antivirus programs.

Each of these antivirus software programs provides a similar service to the next: protecting our devices and identities from malicious forces.

Because as much as some of us like to think we’re amateur-hour security experts, scammers have become more advanced and skilled than ever before.

So it’s integral to our personal safety and computer health that we suck up our pride and utilize the best antivirus software of 2024.

Best Antivirus software of 2024

Best Overall

Norton 360 Deluxe [12 month]

$29.99

Norton 360 is one of the leading antivirus providers, with real-time monitoring and protection against malware and other threats. You also get a fully-featured security suite with a VPN, password manager, firewall, and dark web monitoring.

OS Compatibility: Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS

Cost: Subscription with free trial

What We Like:

• Real-time protection against malware, ransomware, viruses, and more
• Dark web monitoring to notify you if your personal information is up for sale
• 25GB of secure cloud backup for important files, so you won't lose them even if the worst happens to your computer

Check Availability

01/25/2024 02:02 pm GMT

There’s a reason Norton 360 is one of the most popular and well-known antivirus software packages on the market.

It consistently defeats threats with a high level of success, using heuristic analytics and machine learning to murder the most advanced malware out there.

Plus it’s packed with features such as a firewall, password manager, VPN, dark web monitoring, ransomware protection, and so much more.

The dark web monitoring is a nice touch. We might never enter the shadow world, but our personal data might. Norton 360 keeps it personal, private, and secure.

Best for Windows

Windows Security

Rebranded to Windows Security, this inbuilt antivirus comes with every copy of Windows 10 or 11 to protect your PC from threats and viruses. It's really all you need these days, but it isn't the most fully-featured security suite so you don't get any added extras.

OS Compatibility: Windows

Cost: Free with Windows

What We Like:

• Built-in to every version of Windows 10 and 11
• Completely free to use
• Protects against viruses and other threats

Learn more

Whelp, it goes without saying that if you have a Windows PC, you have one of the most competent but annoying antivirus programs out there in Windows Security.

Built into every new copy of Windows, Security does a nominal job of protecting your PC. It’s no slouch, but it’s not a feature-rich antivirus program.

Windows Security does offer real-time protection, and regular updates itself, slogging your RAM as it does so. But it’s a small price to pay (nothing) for moderate protection without paying a premium.

It’s worth mentioning that Windows Security used to be called Microsoft Defender, but was rebranded as Defender is now the name of the security product included with Microsoft 365.

Best for Mac

Intego Mac Internet Security X9

$39.99 $29.99

The old paradigm of Macs not needing antivirus is misguided. With the surging popularity of Apple's OS, hackers have shifted to crafting Mac malware so you need protection. Designed specifically for the needs of macOS, Intego gives you real-time monitoring, a smart firewall, optimization tools and smart backups to keep your Mac safe.

OS Compatibility: macOS

Cost: Subscription

What We Like:

• Customized antivirus and security for macOS users
• Real-time monitoring and backup options that work with Time Machine to keep you protected
• Smart firewall to proactively protect from threats

Check Availability

01/25/2024 02:34 pm GMT

If you are a macOS person, then you’ll need an antivirus program specifically optimized for macOS and that’s Intego.

Intego is designed to take Apple’s built-in security features to the next level with real-time monitoring, Mac optimization tools and backup options, and toggle boxes for network security.

One standout feature is the customizable smart firewall. This ensures that no matter where you are working on your Mac, you are getting the best protection possible.

Intego does offer a Windows antivirus scanner, but it’s a pale imitation of the Mac version.

Best for anti-phishing

McAfee Total Protection 2024 Ready

$119.99 $24.99

McAfee's security suites bring multiple added extras over the real-time antivirus protection, including AI-powered scam protection, a VPN that can turn on automatically on public Wi-Fi, a secure password manager, and options to secure all of your devices.

OS Compatibility: Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS, Chrome

Cost: Subscription

What We Like:

• Protect every device from PCs, Macs, iPhones, and Androids with one subscription
• AI-powered protection against scammers
• Added value with VPN, password manager, and dark web monitoring

Check Availability

01/25/2024 03:09 pm GMT

Ironically, McAfee’s image is used just as much on malicious websites as phishing spam as it works to protect against it. Don’t let that put you off though, as those sites are fraudulently using the logo to trick you.

The antivirus package is one of the best in the industry. McAfee’s best features is its protection against phishing and web-based trojan attacks. Basically, if you have McAfee installed, you never have to fret when browsing even the most sus sites.

The subscription package can get a bit expensive, but McAfee also offers some of the most comprehensive parental controls on the market.

There’s also a Wi-Fi scanner, especially helpful if you are constantly hooking up with rando Wi-Fi networks ya dawg.

Best free antivirus

Malwarebytes Premium

$59.99 $43.32

Malwarebytes has long been one of the better malware removal tools, and does a great job with the free version requiring manually triggered scans. Upgrading to the premium subscription adds scheduling, real-time monitoring, and other benefits like spam call protection on iOS devices.

OS Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Chrome OS, Android

Cost: Subscription with indefinite free trial

What We Like:

• Free version gives you most of the functionality of the subscription
• Protects against viruses, malware, spyware and ransomware
• Works on most operating systems

Check Availability See free version

01/25/2024 03:34 pm GMT

While Malwarebytes does have a comprehensive subscription plan with the normal features you’d find in an antivirus software, the free version is where it’s at. While you have to run it on-demand, you can use the free version literally forever.

The free version of Malwarebytes is one of the best ways to quickly remove viruses and malware from your PC. That’s not because it’s free, but because it has a constantly up-to-date database of the latest malware and is quick and easy to use.

Simply download, install, ignore the subscription buttons, and clean your PC of the crap you accidentally downloaded.

Best for businesses

Trend Micro Internet Security

$49.99

Trend Micro has more of a footprint in the enterprise space, but that means it's tried and tested and will protect your home computers just as well. Alongside the always-on antivirus it can protect you against identity theft, malware, ransomware, phishing links, and more.

OS Compatibility: Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS, Chrome OS

Cost: Subscription

What We Like:

• Enterprise-level protection with deep customizability
• Encrypted password manager with support for 2-factor authentication
• Helps keep your social media accounts safe

Check Availability

01/26/2024 06:32 am GMT

Trend Micro has a lot of customization options, which is why it’s popular for enterprise-level protection. IT managers can adjust permissions and features based on organizational needs, and it works with the most popular operating systems.

It’s really robust in the password protection arena, with 256-bit AES encryption, unlimited password storage, password generation, and two-factor authentication. While Trend Micro might not be the most well-known antivirus software, it’s still offers enough for consideration.

Best extra features

Panda Security

From $3.99 per month

Many antivirus products have an unreasonably low device limit, but not Panda. You can use it on all of your home devices from one subscription, with no limits on the number of devices it will install on. That's a big bonus, and comes in addition to VPNs, PC optimization, and other added extras.

OS Compatibility: Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS

Cost: Subscription and free plan

What We Like:

• Four different subscription tiers so you can choose the protection level you want
• Added extras like VPN, Wi-Fi protection, ransomware protection, parental controls and PC optimization
• Protect all of your home devices from one subscription with no limits

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Panda’s VPN isn’t that great, but that’s a small thing in its sea of extra features. There’s a free plan that offers basic virus protection for Windows and Android, but the subscription plan offers advanced ransomware protection, password manager, parental controls, and a file encrypter.

But the best feature that Panda includes is its Rescue Kit. This is a bootable version that resides on a USB drive, just in case your computers gets obliterated by a virus. That’s much cheaper than scrapping your PC and starting over.

Best free trial

Sophos Home

From $59.99 per year

Sophos Home is a fully-featured security suite that gives you a 30 day trial before you need your credit card details, so you can figure out if it's the home security option for you. It has advanced centralized management and works on most devices, including mobile ones.

OS Compatibility: Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS

Cost: Subscription and free version

What We Like:

• Robust protection against online malware so that you can surf securely
• A 30-day free trial that doesn't require a credit card
• Parental controls, centralized security management, and ransomware protection

Check Availability

Sophos Home is a consumer-facing version of its enterprise-level malware protection software.

Its free version is fairly robust, offering supreme malware protection. Web pages packed with malware stand no chance against Sophos Home’s malware protection.

It’s all in how Sophos Home functions, as it shuts down threatening processes when active, and then automatically reverts data. Plus, it actively blacklists websites known for dumping malware on computers, mitigating risk.

Best for online banking

Kaspersky Internet Security 2023

$89.99 $39.99

Kaspersky is one of the biggest names in antivirus protection, and a solid choice for protecting your computers and cellphones from attacks. It's also got added extras like stronger protection when on online banking websites, a way to protect your webcam, and tracking protection.

OS Compatibility: Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS

Cost: Subscription

What We Like:

• Works on all of your devices
• Added value like parental controls and extra security when doing online banking
• Protects against malware, tracking, and more

Check Availability

01/25/2024 06:18 pm GMT

While Kaspersky is a Russian company, it is more focused on capitalism than anything else.

Plus, with its safe money secure browser, anti-phishing protection, smart home monitor, and unlimited VPN, it’s one of the best pieces of security software for online banking and random financial transactions.

Kaspersky has a dangerous site protection feature and an antivirus engine that keeps itself constantly updated.

While you might fear the call is coming from within the house, Kaspersky has done nothing but competently protect consumers from viruses for its entire existence.

Best budget

Bitdefender Total Security 2024

$53.99

Bitdefender has a hybrid security model that offloads the heavy scanning to the cloud, so your computer isn't using all of its resources to stay protected. It's also packed with optimizations to reduce battery drain, has a VPN, and ways to protect your webcam and microphone.

OS Compatibility: Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS

Cost: Subscription

What We Like:

• Real-time protection against malware, web attacks, phishing, fraud, and more
• Adapts to the hardware of your device to improve performance
• Rescue environment for deep cleaning

Check Availability

01/25/2024 06:29 pm GMT

Bitdefender has two things that set it apart from it competitors. First, it has one of the most advanced antivirus engines backed by a killer malware database, AI detection, and machine learning.

Second, it has one of the best subscription tiers in its Total Security plan, which comes in less in cost than other services.

However, that plan doesn’t include a VPN, but the next tier does and it’s a nice VPN, comparable to standalone products. If you are have a budget for your protection, Bitdefender can save you a few bucks without sacrificing features.

Best for mobile

Avira Prime

From $9.99 per month

This lightweight antivirus program is perfect for protecting your phones and other mobile devices, and it can block spam callers as an added bonus.

OS Compatibility: Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS

Cost: Subscription

What We Like:

• Anonymizes your web browsing for security and anti-tracking
• Optimizes your privacy settings and has an inbuilt password manager
• Blocks spam calls on your mobile devices

Check Availability

The reason Avira is best for mobile is the same reason its best for old computers running Windows XP, it’s a very lightweight program.

This is because its antivirus engine lives in the cloud, rather than in temp files on your PC. You don’t have to download anything of substance.

Plus, it’s packed with system optimization tools such as a startup optimizer, game booster, and junk file cleaner.

That junk file cleaner really comes in handy because while they may not be virus-laden, junk files still take up space and slow things down. Avira also has clean apps for your mobile devices, so you can keep those tiny computers virus-free.

Best bundled VPN

TotalAV

From $29 for the first year

TotalAV is a low-overhead antivirus with a fast VPN that works with streaming sites. It also has added value in a password manager, a remote log out tool, and secure browsing.

OS Compatibility: Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS

Cost: Subscription

What We Like:

• Low cost subscription with included VPN
• Web shield for secure browsing
• Remote log out tool

Check Availability

TotalAV has all the stuff you’d look for in antivirus software, including a web shield that prevents you from even accessing scary websites.

But where it really stands out, as far as an antivirus software, is with its bundled VPN. It’s as good as or better than some standalone VPNs, and is totally secure and works with streaming sites. Plus it’s fast, which some VPNs struggle with.

Additionally, TotalAV has a nice password product called Total Password that provides an encrypted box to store all your passwords and private data.

And there’s even a tool to remotely log you out of all your accounts on any device, a nice touch for an antivirus software.

Things to consider when procuring antivirus software

1. Price

Many of the antivirus programs here list “subscription” under cost. That’s because many have tiered pricing, based on different features like adding a VPN or monthly vs. annual billing.

But the gist is that you should ask yourself before balking at $19.99, what’s the price you’d put on your personal computing security?

How much would you pay to ensure your identity isn’t stolen and your computer isn’t secretly used for doing crimes?

2. Features

Many antivirus software packages are just that. They are much more than antivirus protection. They offer password protection, dark web monitoring, VPN services, malware scanning, and so on.

There’s no reason to get more than what you need. So if you don’t need ten licenses, or enterprise protection, or a password locker, don’t spend the money. Buy the software and plan that contains the features you need.

3. Operating system compatibility

While most antivirus programs work with Windows and Mac, some are better suited for particular operating systems. Especially when it comes to mobile OS like Android or iOS, and Chrome.

Pick the software that optimizes your security for your operating system, or install Linux. Your call.

Final thoughts on the best antivirus software of 2024

As we keep moving forward with technology, as do the spammers, hackers, and phishers. Basic trojan horse viruses are a thing of the past (though still used) and the daily threats we face just turning our computers on compound every single day.

Considering how much we spend annually on subscription services for entertainment and content, it’s a small thing to spend much less on software to protect that freedom.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

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The post The best Antivirus software (2024) appeared first on KnowTechie.

Ring will no longer offer a customer-facing feature that facilitates video sharing between customers and law enforcement, the company announced in a blog post.

Starting this week, the RFA feature will disappear, but law enforcement officers can still access Ring users’ surveillance footage without a warrant in certain circumstances, such as emergency situations.

Furthermore, public safety agency posts will still be public and will be available to view on the Neighbors app feed. Additionally, officers can directly request footage from users.

Ring takes great first step towards better privacy

The Electronic Frontier Foundation, an NGO that champions user privacy, celebrated the decision.

In a blog post, the EFF states that “this is a victory in a long fight, not just against blanket police surveillance, but also against a culture in which private, for-profit companies build special tools to allow law enforcement to more easily access companies’ users and their data”.

Still, the EFF believes more can be done to protect user privacy, such as enabling end-to-end encryption by default and turning off default audio collection.

So, if you have a Ring camera or video doorbell, the police can still ask you to share your footage with them without a warrant, but they cannot demand it.

If you want to share it with them, that’s your decision and nothing is stopping you, but they can no longer ask for the footage directly from the company without coming up with a warrant unless there’s an emergency situation.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Does Ring camera work without a subscription?
• Review: Abode Wireless Video Doorbell
• How to enable end-to-end encryption on Ring cameras
• Ring is recalling a bunch of video doorbells after it was found they can catch on fire

The post Ring changes policy to require warrants for footage requests appeared first on KnowTechie.

Troy Hunt, creator of the helpful Have I Been Pwned website for finding out if your details are in password leaks, says this new leak is one of the largest he’s ever seen.

Dubbed “Naz.API,” this credential stuffing list (used by hackers to try email and password combinations rapidly on their target) has a staggering 70 million email addresses and over 100 million passwords inside.

And unlike many lists on Have I Been Pwned, “a third of the email address have never been seen before.”

If you haven’t already, it’s time to start using a password manager. Preferably one that supports two-factor authentication, and enable that on services that support it while you’re changing passwords.

Then read on for the rest.

New password leak probably has your details inside

New breach: The Naz.API stealer logs and cred stuffing lists were posted to a hacking forum in Sep. Data included 71M email addresses and 100M plain text passwords, often alongside the service they were used for. 67% were already in @haveibeenpwned. More: https://t.co/Uef4G7gOei

— Have I Been Pwned (@haveibeenpwned) January 17, 2024

If you’re wondering where the data inside this password leak came from, Hunt says it was from “stealer logs” which are malware on infected computers that capture login details then send it out to the hackers.

In a year of high-profile password and data leaks from companies such as LastPass and 23andme, the Naz.API dump is huge. Hunt tested enough of the service+email combinations to be satisfied that the data was legit.

He even found his own data in there, with a password he hadn’t used since before 2011. That’s joined by over 100 million unique passwords, which are repeated enough times that the full password leak contains 1.3 billion entries.

As Hunt notes, the number of recurring passwords means that the general public likely isn’t using a password manager with unique passwords for every service. Maybe it’s time to start.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

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• Microsoft introduces Copilot Pro, a $20/month AI assistant

The post New password leak has 71 million emails in it appeared first on KnowTechie.

With how many cameras are on the market now, it can be challenging to research which are best. Add to that decision that there isn’t a one-camera-fits-all option, and it gets even more complex.

You don’t have to do any of that, though, as we’ve spent countless hours researching the market while doing hands-on testing on many of the brands on the market.

If you already have smart home devices, you’ll want security cameras that work with your voice assistant, whether Amazon’s Alexa, Google Assistant, or HomeKit for Apple users.

And some security cameras can control your other smart devices, like your smart thermostat, so you don’t waste money running the air conditioning while a door or window is open.

Any of our camera recommendations will do the job, so finding the right fit for your home comes down to the additional features you need.

The best security cameras to roll your own security

Best dual-camera system

TP-Link Tapo 2K Outdoor Wireless Security Cameras

$199.99 $139.99

TP-Link's Tapo outdoor security cameras are completely wireless, with a 180-day battery life. They feature a 2K resolution video feed, color night vision with embedded spotlights if you prefer, and work with Google Home and Alexa.

What We Like:

• Kit comes with two wireless and weatherproof cameras and a hub for an affordable price
• 2K resolution video feed with color night vision and embedded spotlights
• Local and cloud storage options

Check Availability

01/25/2024 12:25 pm GMT

TP-Link has been building a name for itself in the home security market, and this Tapo security camera system is an affordable way to cover multiple angles of your home.

This kit gets you two 2K wireless video cameras with color night vision and a 180-day battery life, and the hub to connect them to your network.

The cameras are IP65 weatherproof rated, which means they’ll survive in the rain, and they have two embedded spotlights so they can light up your yard if they sense motion.

You can record video locally by popping a microSD card into the hub or subscribing to the Tapo Care cloud subscription for 30 days of unlimited recording history ($3.49 per month per camera or $11.99 per month for up to ten cameras).

Best with sensors

ecobee SmartCamera Smart Security Bundle

$179.98

Ecobee makes super stylish smart home devices, and this SmartCamera kit with SmartSensors for doors and windows is no exception. It works with HomeKit and connects to Ecobee's thermostats to control your A/C if a door or window is left open.

What We Like:

• Stylish camera and small, unobtrusive sensors for door and window monitoring
• Can sense movement, when doors or windows are open, or smoke alarm sounds and alert you or trigger responses like pausing your A/C
• Quick setup process
• Automatic pan and tilt, plus doubles as base unit for your home security system

Check Availability

01/25/2024 12:21 pm GMT

The Ecobee SmartCamera is a great way to add interior monitoring to your home, and it also doubles as a hub to pull in notifications from the SmartSensors included in this kit that monitor the doors or windows they are installed on.

It features a 1080p video feed, looks stylish, and is pretty small and unobtrusive. What it also can do is act as an Alexa device, including responding to voice commands, playing music, giving you the news, or running Alexa Routines.

While the camera is capable of motion sensing, you won’t get alerts unless you subscribe to Ecobee Smart Security, which is $5 per month for one camera or $10 per month for an unlimited number of cameras.

The plan also enables video clip recording, as you only get a snapshot image without it.

The window and door sensors also need the subscription for advanced features like being able to pause your A/C when they’re open (this also requires an Ecobee thermostat).

Best without subscriptions

Eufy Security eufyCam S330 2-Cam Kit

$549.99

Eufy's new S330 cameras are battery-powered and record 4K footage, but what makes them stand out is including solar charging, which only needs a couple of hours of sun per day to supply all of its power needs. The system needs a hub (included) but that enables local recordings without needing a subscription.

What We Like:

• 4K resolution for crystal clear video footage
• Local expandable storage in the HomeBase 3 hub (included)
• Solar panels on the cameras only need two hours of sunlight a day to charge the batteries enough for 24hrs of use
• Completely wire-free install

Check Availability

KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

01/25/2024 11:56 am GMT

Eufy’s EufyCam 3 S330 kit isn’t just a great pair of 4K resolution wireless battery-powered security cameras that are IP67-rated and weatherproof. It is, but that’s not what’s so great about them.

The killer feature is the solar panels on top of each camera, which continuously recharge the internal battery. It only needs two hours of sunlight to get enough power for the other 22 in a day, which is incredible.

That means no more having to go up a ladder to recharge batteries every six months, like on competitor’s units, or even yearly based on Eufy’s estimates for this camera.

The cameras do need a hub to connect to the app and your network, but that’s included in this bundle and it also enables local recordings with the ability to expand storage up to 16TB with a 2.5-inch hard drive.

Best for advanced setups

Ubiquiti Networks UVC G5 Bullet Camera

$162.95

These G5 Bullet cameras from Ubiquiti are perfect for making your own self-hosted security camera system, with 1440p resolution streaming, PoE installation, IR night vision and weatherproof construction. They do need a more involved installation though, with Ethernet cables and your own on-premises server to store video footage.

What We Like:

• Professional quality for making your own self-hosted security camera system
• 4MP (1440p) resolution with 24 FPS video streaming
• Powered by Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) so only one cable is needed for installation
• Weatherproof so can be used indoors and outdoors

Check Availability

01/25/2024 11:11 am GMT

To unburden yourself from subscription fees and to get the best image available, you’ll have to hardwire cameras into a video storage solution in your home.

Ubiquiti makes this process easier, with PoE (Power-over-Ethernet) cameras like the G5 Bullet, which give you a 2K resolution feed and only need an Ethernet cable run to them, and a switch that supports PoE.

They’re IPX4 weatherproof, can record sound and have 30ft of IR night vision, and are pretty easy to mount once you’ve run the cable.

This is a more expensive system overall than most of this list and might need a professional to install. Still, then you’ll have a more robust security system with local storage and the ability to monitor remotely through an app.

Surprisingly affordable

Zmodo Security Outdoor 1080p Wi-Fi IP Camera

$34.99 $31.99

For a more traditional look, this Wi-Fi IP camera from Zmodo is an affordable way to add a visual deterrent to outside of your property, while gaining 1080p streamed video, motion alerts, and the ability to link to Alexa and compatible smart displays.

What We Like:

• Traditional design is a visual crime deterrent
• 1080p video streaming and night vision with adjustable sensitivity
• Motion alerts
• IP65 weather resistance and metal case

Check Availability

01/25/2024 11:01 am GMT

There’s no rule about good security cameras needing to be expensive, as evidenced by this Zmodo model. The only real tradeoff is that it needs wiring to power, but that can also be supplied by a USB power bank if you get creative.

It’s got Wi-Fi for its video feed, although only on the 2.4GHz band, and the Zmodo app can monitor up to four cameras at one time which is handy.

Adding a monthly Zmodo cloud subscription of $9.99 adds long-term cloud storage, up from 36 hours without paying. And you also get AI-powered motion notifications from the subscription.

They also have adjustable night vision so you can tweak things to get color images at night, or find the level of night vision that your environment needs.

Best with pan and tilt

Wyze Cam Pan v3 Indoor/Outdoor

$39.98 $33.99

Wyze makes some of the best affordable security cameras, and the Pan v3 adds remote controlled pan and tilt motors so you can get the view you want without a complicated setup process. It's also weatherproof, so it can be used outdoors and gives a sharp video feed that can be stored locally or in the cloud.

What We Like:

• Mechanical pan and tilt controls for getting the perfect field of view
• Local and cloud storage options
• Weatherproof design so can be used indoors or outdoors
• Affordable price for the number of features it has

Check Availability

KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

01/25/2024 10:56 am GMT

Wyze makes impressively affordable security cameras that can be used all over your home. This model is IP65 weatherproof rated, so it can be used outside, and it has mechanical pan and tilt functionality.

That’s a rarity even among more expensive cameras, so to see it on one that costs less than $40 is astonishing.

You also get a 1080p video feed and automatic motion tracking to keep a subject in frame for longer. Or set up to four predefined waypoints, and the camera automatically scans between them to cover a larger area.

You can record continuously to a local microSD card, or the three subscription options enable 14-day cloud storage and smart alerts, or facial recognition and agent-based monitoring on the higher tiers to create a full security system.

Best for cellular connectivity

Arlo Go 2 LTE/Wi-Fi Spotlight Camera

$251.22

The Arlo Go 2 is a perfect choice for those wanting to cover a larger property with recorded video. That's because it's battery-powered and has optional cellular connectivity so you can install it out of range of your home's Wi-Fi (but you can use Wi-Fi too if you wanted).

What We Like:

• Completely wire-free installation and operation
• Color night vision and 1080p video feed
• Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT
• Wi-Fi and cellular connectivity options so it can be placed further away from your home

Check Availability

01/25/2024 10:50 am GMT

Sometimes you want to monitor part of your property that isn’t close enough for Wi-Fi signal to reach reliably. The Arlo Go 2 fixes this by also offering 4G LTE cellular connectivity, and local microSD card recording.

That means it requires a data plan from either T-Mobile, US Cellular, or Verizon, and you’ll use anywhere up to 2GB of data a month depending on settings and how often it’s recording.

But that might be the best option for monitoring a remote garage, trail, or anywhere else on your property, like an access gate at the end of a long driveway.

You get 1080p video and night vision, Alexa and Google Home integrations, and a spotlight in case you want color video at night.

Just to let you know, some other features need a subscription, which starts from $4.99 a month per camera or $12.99 per month for an unlimited number. That gets you a 30-day cloud-based video history, various AI detection features, and better notifications.

You can also pay for Secure Plus at $17.99 monthly, which adds 24/7 emergency response, or for Safe & Secure Pro at $24.99 monthly, which adds 24/7 professional monitoring and more.

Best bundle for Alexa users

Blink Whole Home Bundle

$214.97 $189.97

Blink makes some of the best low-cost security cameras, and this bundle gets you all of its best devices to cover your home in streamable video. You get a video doorbell, an outdoor camera, a wired camera for inside and the Sync Module to tie it all together.

What We Like:

• Cover your front and back doors and your largest indoor space with this full kit of security cameras
• Easy installation with most cameras being wire-free
• Two-year battery life on the battery-powered cameras
• 1080p live feed through the Blink app and Alexa control

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01/25/2024 10:16 am GMT

Blink is owned by Amazon, so you get deep Alexa integration from all of its affordable security cameras. The video doorbell and Outdoor 4 cameras in this bundle are battery-powered, with up to two years of battery life.

All three cameras offer 1080p video through the Blink app, infrared night vision and two-way audio. You can set up local recording by plugging a USB drive into the Blink Sync Module (included in the kit).

A Blink subscription plan ($30 per year for one camera, $100 per year for unlimited cameras) is needed for several functions.

That includes live view watching over five minutes, where you get 90 minutes with a subscription, recordings triggered by motion detection, a 60-day recording history, and easy sharing of clips.

You also get a few more notification options and an extended warranty.

Best for easy install

Ring Stick Up Cam Pro Battery

$179.99

The Ring Stick Up Cam Pro with battery is a completely wire-free security camera that can be used indoors or outdoors and installed in minutes. It can record motion-activated video and stores it in the cloud, but you'll need a subscription to access more than the last few days of recordings.

What We Like:

• Easy installation with no wiring necessary
• Integrates with Alexa and IFTTT
• No hub needed
• Inbuilt siren and 1080p video feed

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01/24/2024 09:06 pm GMT

Ring’s Stick Up Cam Pro Battery is its most advanced security camera, able to be placed anywhere as it’s completely wireless. You can expect at least six months of use between charges, depending on how often it records.

You get crisp HDR-enhanced 1080p video footage, advanced motion detection, color night vision and dual-band Wi-Fi so you have a better chance of solid connectivity.

The motion detection is helped by radar, so it pulls fewer false alarms than camera-only detection systems.

It does have one main drawback though, in that you need a Ring Protect subscription to access recorded events. That’s $3.99 per month or $39.99 per year for one camera, or $10.99 per month, $100 per year for unlimited cameras and a longer warranty.

And for $20 per month or $200 per year, you also get 24/7 professional monitoring, cellular backup, and a few Ring Alarm Pro services. That’s still highly competitive when you look at other professional monitoring options from the big brands.

Best for Google Home users

Google Nest Cam Outdoor or Indoor Battery

$179.99 $163.96

The Google Nest Cam uses a rechargeable battery for power, so it can be installed in minutes at any location, providing excellent video streaming from the dual-band Wi-Fi. It's also usable indoors or outdoors, thanks to a weatherproof exterior.

What We Like:

• Weatherproof housing so can be used anywhere
• Dual-band Wi-Fi for better connectivity
• Installs quickly with no need to run wires

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01/24/2024 08:42 pm GMT

For those heavily in the Google Home ecosystem, only one name will do for a security camera. That’s the Google Nest Cam, which runs on a rechargeable battery and can be used indoors or outdoors.

That means no wires to install, and as it has dual-band Wi-Fi, you can often get a stronger video stream than cameras with 2.4GHz Wi-Fi only.

You get 1080p video and great motion detection, but you’ll need a Nest Aware subscription to view any recorded events older than three hours ago, limiting its utility until you pony up $6 per month for 30-day history or $12 per month for 60 days.

Everything is handled in the Google Home app, whether that’s live viewing the feed or checking notifications or watching recorded clips.

The best security camera is the one you’ll use

With smaller camera sensors getting ever cheaper, even the most affordable security cameras can give you 1080p video recording and live feeds.

The question is which other added extra features you want, and if you are okay paying for a subscription to cloud recording (handy if the power goes out) or if you prefer local recording options.

Whatever your needs, you’ll find something on this list that will fit the bill.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• The best smart thermostats
• Best iPhone 15 cases
• The best Steam Deck accessories
• Best Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 accessories

The post Best home security cameras (2024) appeared first on KnowTechie.

The most common unwanted noises are static-like buzzing and repeated clicking, and neither is normal.

It’s also possible that you noticed the noise after troubleshooting some other issues, like Wi-Fi connectivity or recordings not saving.

Any noise coming from a Wyze camera that isn’t the motor noises from the pan and tilt variants is a bad thing. It points to a serious hardware issue, and your camera could fail at any moment.

Here’s what to check before talking to Wyze for a replacement.

What to look for when troubleshooting a noisy Wyze camera

Before we start, if you only recently bought your Wyze camera and it’s making noise, talk to Wyze support as a first step.

Security cameras shouldn’t be making noise other than any motors that might be used to pan or tilt the camera. In all other cases, it’s caused by faulty hardware and the manufacturer should replace it for you.

Replace the power adapter

It is quite possible for an electronic device to make noise when it’s dealing with an inconsistent power supply.

Since the power adapter regulates voltage and current supply to Wyze cameras, it can be the culprit. 

For some users, the static noise was followed by Wi-Fi connectivity issues, and replacing the power adapter and cable solved the problem.

Tweak night vision settings

If the camera is making ticking or clicking noise, this might point to a hardware issue.

Wyze cameras usually have night vision capability, achieved by an infrared (IR) cut filter mechanism.

The IR cut filter moves over the camera lens to capture clearer images in low light conditions.

While adjusting the position, the filter makes an audible click. This IR cut filter sometimes starts malfunctioning, creating a continuous clicking sound.

You can check by turning off the camera’s night vision settings. If the clicking noise stops, you know what’s causing it.

It’s not a user-replaceable part, so your next step is to contact Wyze for replacement.

Try essential troubleshooting steps

You can try basic troubleshooting steps to fix the noise issue. However, keep in mind that noise is likely to be a hardware malfunction and not something the end user can fix.

Here are some steps for you to follow:

• Try power cycling the Wyze camera.

• Update the Wyze camera to the latest firmware.

• Factory reset the Wyze camera.

Claim refund or warranty

If you have recently purchased a Wyze camera and it’s making noises, it shouldn’t; it’s time to talk to support. Or, if you’re still within the return period, do that instead.

That’s good advice for any tech purchase, as you shouldn’t run into any situations that need troubleshooting that quickly outside of manufacturing defects.

If you purchased directly from Wyze, you can return your cameras within 30 days by contacting the company.

There should be no reason your Wyze camera is making noise when on

Your Wyze cameras should be silently surveilling your home while on and not making weird noises. The only exception is the pan and tilt variants when the motor moves to a new position.

If any other noises are coming from your camera, it’s time to talk to Wyze support. They’ll likely replace your camera under warranty or give you options.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• How to factory reset a Wyze Camera before selling it
• How to transfer a Wyze camera to a new owner
• How to connect a Wyze Camera to Wi-Fi
• How to fix a Wyze cam not recording to its microSD card

The post How to fix a Wyze camera making noise appeared first on KnowTechie.

See, while most security cameras are used as a visual deterrent, sometimes you want a stealthy camera so that it has more chance of catching a security issue. You’ll want a Wi-Fi enabled camera to hide the least cables as well.

If would-be thieves decide to side-step the visible cameras, placing a hidden one in the places not covered by the obvious cameras will catch them in the act.

Just make sure that putting a hidden camera on your property is legal in the state you live in. We wouldn’t want to get anyone in trouble.

Here are some great inspirations from Wyze cam users

Here are the top 5 hiding spots or camouflage options for Wyze Cameras as tried and tested by the community.

Inside a birdhouse

For outdoor use, you can place battery-powered Wyze cams inside a birdhouse, but be sure the hole is the right size for the camera lens.

If you’re up to running wiring, you can also use wired Wyze cams in the same manner, but you’ll want to hide the cables; otherwise, your camouflage efforts will be spoiled.

Inside a fake object like a plant or book

You can place the Wyze camera inside a fake plant housing (or fake rock, pot, or book). This works best for indoor cameras.

When choosing a plant disguise for your Wyze cams, make sure:

• It won’t cover any of the primary functions or lenses of the camera.
• Offers a proper fit for your specific Wyze cam.
• Blends inconspicuously with your interior decor.

Also, you might want to turn off the infrared LEDs; otherwise, the red light when recording will give it away.

Mount it on a window

Wyze sells this amazing window mount that allows you to attach your Wyze cam to a glass surface. If appropriately installed (preferably at the corner of a front-facing window), it gives you a clear, expansive view of the outside.

You can multiply the discreet factor if you have curtains or blinds that can partially obscure the camera while allowing it to see through the window.

Decorate your Wyze camera to hide it in plain sight

Put your Wyze cams inside paper gift boxes, or make whimsical character sleeves to fit them inside.

It adds a playful, decorative element to the technology, yet your Wyze cams would be hidden in plain sight. 

Vinyl wrap or permanently paint the camera

These are viable methods to conceal your Wyze cams, allowing it to blend into its environment more seamlessly. The painting/wrapping works best for indoor cameras, whereas skins are better for outdoor cams. 

Perhaps this could be a camo pattern for exterior cameras or a Rubik Cube or similar box toy for a camera used indoors.

As you design your unique hiding spot or pick a suitable camouflage for the Wyze Cam, make sure

1. Please turn off the infrared and status lights through the Wyze app.
2. Position your Wyze cams at a vantage point where they can still see the surrounding area.
3. The camera remains functional (lens and microphones are unobstructed).

Hiding a Wyze camera as a backup recording device is worth it

Keeping at least some visible security cameras as a visual deterrent is wise, as is having a backup to catch the things the other cameras won’t.

That’s why you would want to camouflage a security camera in the first place and also to stop it from being stolen.

But again, please check your local laws before hiding a Wyze camera for discreet recording.

Again, you should check local laws before setting up your Wyze cameras for discreet recording. We wouldn’t want you to get in trouble for setting up your security system.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• How to transfer a Wyze camera to a new owner
• How to connect a Wyze Camera to Wi-Fi
• How to fix Wyze error code 90
• How to fix Wyze failed to update device list errors

The post Top 5 places to hide a Wyze camera on your property appeared first on KnowTechie.

If you subscribe to Comcast’s Xfinity TV or Xfinity Internet services, now might be a good time to change your password.

This week, the company issued a press release affirming it was the victim of a data breach after one of its software vendors discovered a security bug that was being actively exploited by hackers.

The press release was issued when Comcast started notifying Maine regulators about the cybersecurity incident involving customer data theft, as required by state law.

Comcast is expected to distribute similar notices in states with near-identical laws on the books and where it operates its Xfinity services.

Here is a look at what exactly happened, what Comcast is doing about the situation, and what steps you need to take to protect yourself.

What happened?

The situation began unfolding in early October at a software company called Citrix, which provides tech-related services to thousands of enterprise customers like Comcast. 

Specifically, Citrix discovered that one of its products, Citrix NetScaler, had a serious security bug that allowed hackers to grab authentication tokens from onboard memory devices using the software.

Once a hacker obtained the authentication token, they essentially had access to a company’s NetScaler platform.

To make matters even worse, the same exploit was also found to affect Citrix Gateway, a similar service that allows companies to remotely — and, supposedly, securely — access parts of their technical infrastructure.

Citrix published a security bulletin on October 10, notifying clients like Comcast about the situation.

However, researchers believe the exploit was actively being used by hackers as soon as August, giving them plenty of time to target government users and corporations that rely on the two Citrix products.

How does Comcast fit into all of this?

Comcast didn’t say which Citrix products it uses, but given that the company offers residential and enterprise broadband Internet services, it’s fair to assume Comcast probably uses both NetScaler and Gateway as part of its business. 

In a press release issued on Monday, Comcast said it received guidance from Citrix on two occasions — October 10 and October 23 — with information about how to fix the security problem.

On October 25, Comcast said it was performing a “routine cybersecurity exercise,” and that is when it discovered that hackers likely gained access to its internal systems between October 16 and October 19.

“Xfinity notified federal law enforcement and initiated an investigation into the nature and scope of the incident,” a Comcast spokesperson said in a statement. 

What kind of information was supposedly taken?

It took Comcast nearly three weeks to conclude that “information was likely acquired,” which may include the personal information of some of its Xfinity TV, Xfinity Internet, and Xfinity Mobile subscribers.

That information could include:

• A customer’s name
• A customer’s address and other contact information
• The last four digits of a customer’s Social Security number
• A customer’s date of birth
• Usernames and “hashed,” or encrypted, passwords
• The answers to a customer’s “secret” login question(s)

Comcast said the findings are not conclusive, and its “data analysis is continuing.” But, since the company apparently has information that leads it to believe customer information was “likely acquired,” it began notifying state government officials and customers accordingly.

It isn’t clear why Comcast waited nearly a full month to notify customers after reaching the conclusion that the personal data of Xfinity subscribers may have been compromised.

A Comcast spokesperson has not yet returned an email seeking more information on that point.

What should Comcast customers do?

Change your Comcast Xfinity password

Comcast said it is proactively requiring some customers to reset their passwords when they try to log on to the Xfinity website and related apps.

If a customer gets this prompt, it doesn’t necessarily mean their account information was compromised, only that it could have been.

if you’re a Comcast customer, it’s probably a good idea to change the password on the Xfinity website and any other account where that password may have been reused. 

Stop reusing the same password

Since most of us live in the real world where no one actually does that, signing up for a password manager like Bitwarden or NordPass is a good idea.

READ MORE: The best free password managers

Password managers offer a safe (for the most part) way to manage different passwords from a single secure service.

Some — like NordPass and 1Password — will even warn you if you’re using an insecure password or reusing a password across different services.

NordPass

4.5

Starts at $2.29

Quick Verdict: NordPass offers strong security features and an easy-to-use interface with great business options. However, it's pricier than competitors, and the free version has limitations compared to others. Overall, it's still among the best choices available right now.

Who is it good for?:

• People who struggle to remember multiple passwords
• Useful for couples or families who need to share passwords securely and efficiently
• Businesses that prioritize strong security features and ease of use in managing password

Pros:

• Easy-to-use interface that only requires one master password
• Its data breach scanner and actionable password health report help users identify weak and compromised passwords
• Supports secure credential sharing

Cons:

• The free version has limitations
• It's a bit more expensive than some of its competitors

Check Price

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Turn on “Two-factor authentication” wherever it is offered.

Two-factor authentication (2FA) is an extra layer of security that, coupled with a hard-to-guess password, makes it extremely difficult for hackers to gain access to your online accounts.

In most cases, Two-Factor Authentication involves sending a six-digit code to your phone, usually by text message (though, in some cases, you can also opt for a phone call).

There are also apps that will generate Two-Factor Authentication codes for e-mail services, social media accounts, and others.

Two-factor Authentication should always be turned on for services where hackers:

1. Could steal your money (think bank accounts or services where you pay for things online, like Amazon, your home Internet provider, etc.).
2. Could steal your personal data, like billing information, irreplaceable photos, or email messages.

Xfinity customers looking to add two-factor authentication to their accounts can follow along with this guide via the Xfinity website.

Keep an eye on your credit report and score.

While Comcast says it isn’t aware of anyone actively using the personal information of Xfinity subscribers, some data like names, addresses, birthdates, and Social Security numbers can be used by hackers to open loans, credit lines, and bank accounts.

Most banks, credit unions, and credit card companies offer a limited amount of credit monitoring and alerts to customers for free; if they don’t, Experian offers free basic credit monitoring.

Wrapping this all up

Comcast’s recent acknowledgment of a data breach serves as a critical reminder of the digital vulnerabilities that exist even within large corporations.

With all that said, act now: change your Xfinity password, stop reusing passwords, and turn on two-factor authentication. Stay vigilant to protect your personal info from cyber threats.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Comcast report proves people still don’t care about cybersecurity
• Comcast Xfinity subscribers will soon get faster internet speeds
• What equipment do I need to return to Comcast?
• Comcast is working on a smart TV and voice remote that could release late this year

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post Comcast hit by huge data breach: everything you need to know appeared first on KnowTechie.

It’s no secret that VPNs are often used to get around region-locks on content, like on Netflix. And not everyone wants to run a VPN directly on their router, or knows that’s even a possibility.

With this tvOS 17 native app, users won’t have to know the technical details. They just need to sign into their ExpressVPN account, and connect to servers in one of 105 countries around the world.

The best part is that the app does all the hard work for you, but it is missing a few features that advanced users would prefer to see.

Use ExpressVPN on your Apple TV with the new app

ExpressVPN is the first of the large VPN providers to release a native tvOS 17 app, but several other providers are in the process of getting their own apps into the App Store.

Still, ExpressVPN is one of our favorite VPN providers, and I’ve personally used them for multiple years when I lived abroad. The reasons are simple, speed and convenience.

They consistently performed above the competition for throughput speeds, often matching the speed of my connection. And with a short setup through the app, I could be online and be protected with a few clicks.

It’s worth remembering that you’ll have to be on tvOS 17 to use the app, as third-party VPN support didn’t exist in prior versions. Once you’ve updated, you can get the app from the App Store and sign into your ExpressVPN account.

It even has a QR code sign-in method, which is pretty much the quickest way to sign into any account on your Apple TV.

The app is still a work in progress, with the ability to change the region or country of the server you’re connecting to and not much else.

All connections use ExpressVPNs proprietary Lightway protocol, with no way to change the protocol or use advanced features like split-tunneling where only some data types are through the VPN while the rest go over a normal connection.

These are part of the Android app for Fire TV, so we expect them to turn up in the Apple TV app at some point.

And it’s also worth mentioning that VPNs might help you keep safer online, but they can slow down your connection. If your connection is already slow or glitchy, having a VPN probably won’t improve things.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Cox Media Group might be turning your talks into targeted ads
• Dropbox unveils features that shares your data with OpenAI
• WhatsApp will finally let you pin messages in a chat
• Remembering the most chaotic trade show, E3

The post ExpressVPN has a new easy-to-use Apple TV app appeared first on KnowTechie.

Apps on Google Play and the App Store have had recent issues with data privacy, but this revelation is even more sinister.

Joseph Cox over at 404 Media just dropped a bombshell about Cox Media Group (CMG), a major player in the media landscape that’s apparently been eavesdropping on its customer’s conversations to serve them ads.

They’ve dubbed it “Active Listening,” which sounds less like a feature and more like that one friend who overhears everything.

But here’s the kicker: CMG claims it’s all legal, thanks to those ‘Terms and Conditions’ we never read.

Do you think your phone is listening to you to serve ads? You might be right

Now, CMG isn’t just some small fry; they’re part of Apollo Global Management and Cox Enterprise, including Cox Communications. They’ve got their fingers in many pies, from news stations to ISPs.

The pitch is simple: target ads to folks based on their day-to-day gab. Think your AC’s on the fritz or musing about mortgage rates? CMG’s tech is supposedly ready to pick up on those hints and send relevant ads your way.

The tech was promoted with examples like “car lease ending” or “need a better mortgage rate,” and clients could “claim” territories for their ad campaigns.

The concept is to analyze conversations through AI and then bombard those poor souls with tailored ads via streaming services, YouTube, and search engines.

As for the legal mumbo jumbo, CMG’s stance is that it’s all above board because we gave them the green light when we clicked ‘agree’ on some app we’ve already forgotten about.

But here’s where it gets juicier: After 404 Media shined a spotlight on this, references to Active Listening magically vanished from CMG’s site.

Meanwhile, on Reddit, someone’s waving red flags about privacy invasion, and in the Tampa Bay Times, there’s a buzz about a lawsuit involving CMG and allegations of rating manipulation.

So, while CMG’s website once boasted about ROI and invited inquiries on LinkedIn, those calls for comments have gone unanswered. Even their partners like Amazon, Microsoft, and Google are keeping mum.

While CMG’s legal team might argue it’s all copacetic because we clicked ‘agree’ at some point, it doesn’t quite sit right with the court of public opinion.

Representatives for CMG did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• If you’re a Cox subscriber, change your passwords – the company says they were hacked
• Cox apparently throttled an entire neighborhood’s internet after one user’s “excessive usage”
• Disney Plus now hosts Hulu content
• Spotify now offers free audiobooks to Premium subscribers

The post Cox Media Group might be turning your talks into targeted ads appeared first on KnowTechie.

Put simply, end-to-end (E2EE) is the ironclad lockbox that keeps prying eyes away from your private information, specifically in things like messages, emails, and more.

It’s a security measure that ensures only the sender and intended recipient can access the encrypted data, preventing unauthorized access from third parties or prying eyes

I’ll explain the complexities of end-to-end encryption and highlight its crucial role in ensuring digital security.

Whether you’re sending a text, making a call, or sharing files, knowing how this technology works is key to protecting your digital footprint. So, let’s dive in and unravel the mystery of end-to-end encryption together.

What is end-to-end encryption?

Short answer: End-to-end encryption is a secret message that only the person you’re sending it to can understand. It keeps your information private and safe from anyone else who might try to see it.

In E2EE, the data is encrypted on the sender’s system, and only the recipient is able to decrypt and read it.

Whoever intercepts the data during transfer sees only scrambled, unintelligible text. This is paramount for preserving the privacy of digital communications.

How it works

E2EE operates on a process where only the communicating users hold the keys to unlock and read the messages. Here’s a simplified breakdown of the steps involved:

• The sender uses the recipient’s public key to encrypt the message.
• The encrypted message travels across the internet, safe from prying eyes.
• The recipient uses their private key to decrypt the message upon arrival.

This ensures that the message remains secure throughout its journey, and even if the message is intercepted, it remains unreadable without the corresponding private key.

Advantages of end-to-end encryption

E2EE offers numerous benefits, which I find significant in today’s digital landscape:

• Confidentiality: Only the sender and intended recipient can view the message contents.
• Data integrity: E2EE ensures that the content has not been tampered with, keeping the original message intact.
• Protection against eavesdropping: It thwarts any unauthorized parties who try to listen in on your conversations.
• Trust: Users can be confident that their communications are private and secured from vulnerabilities.

These advantages help users feel more secure when sharing sensitive information over the internet.

Common applications of end-to-end encryption

End-to-end encryption is super important because it’s used in loads of digital services that really care about keeping your stuff private and secure.

Messaging apps

E2EE has become synonymous with privacy. Apps like WhatsApp, Signal, and Telegram are flag bearers, encrypting messages in a way that only the sender and receiver can read them.

And now Meta, Facebook’s parent company is jumping on the end-to-end encryption train and now locking Messenger chats with E2EE by default.

The moment a message leaves my device, it’s wrapped in a secure blanket of encryption, traveling through servers as an indecipherable code until it safely arrives at the intended recipient’s device, where it can finally be deciphered.

This ensures that:

• My conversations remain confidential
• There’s a reduced risk of message interception
• Only the recipient and I have access to the content

Every text, photo, or call made through these apps is shielded, providing a strong layer of security against potential breaches.

Email services

Some email services, like ProtonMail and Tutanota, use end-to-end encryption (E2EE) to keep your emails safe.

With E2EE, your email is encrypted on your device before it’s sent, so even if someone intercepts it, they won’t be able to read it unless they’re the intended recipient.

Some key benefits of end-to-end encrypted email services include:

• Protection from unauthorized access and cyber threats
• Ensuring that sensitive information stays hidden
• Peace of mind knowing that private conversations aren’t at risk

It’s vital to recognize that not all email providers offer E2EE by default. It’s my responsibility to choose a service that aligns with my security needs.

Cloud storage

The rise of cloud computing has resulted in more people and businesses using cloud storage services. Services such as iCloud, Google Drive, and Dropbox are incorporating end-to-end encryption to protect the stored files.

With E2EE, users’ documents and photos are encrypted on their own devices and stay encrypted until they are accessed again.

It’s essential for me to note that the level and implementation of E2EE can vary across cloud services. Some may require additional steps or configurations to fully secure my data with end-to-end encryption.

End-to-end encryption vs. regular encryption

Understanding the distinction between end-to-end encryption and regular encryption is crucial for recognizing the layer of security each one provides.

While they both aim to protect data, their approaches and strengths differ significantly.

Differences

Regular encryption secures data in transit but may leave it accessible at endpoints where service providers could access it. Key differences include:

End-to-end encryption (E2EE) is more secure than regular encryption because only the sender and receiver can read the messages, and the decryption keys are kept exclusively with the end users.

Regular encryption is more vulnerable to data breaches since decryption keys might be accessed by third parties if they are stored on servers.

Whereas E2EE remains secure even if attackers gain access to servers since they cannot obtain the necessary keys to decrypt the messages.

Understanding these differences is important for informed decisions on data security and privacy.

However, it’s also important to understand that no system is infallible. User’s endpoints, like smartphones or computers, must be secure as well, since E2EE only protects data in transmission and not on the device itself.

High-profile cyber attacks have exploited endpoint vulnerabilities, emphasizing the need for comprehensive security measures beyond just secure transmission.

End to End Encryption – Wrapping it all up

End-to-end encryption (E2EE) is like a secret code that keeps your online chats private. It’s an important step to protect your messages from being seen by anyone else.

With E2EE, it becomes difficult for curious people and snoops to access your conversations. In a world where data leaks are common, E2EE is a reliable way to keep your private information secure on the internet.

And let’s face it, with all this chat about data leaks popping up left and right, having E2EE feels less like a luxury and more like a trusty guardian for keeping private things private in our wild and wacky internet world.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Meta locks up Messenger chats with default end-to-end encryption
• How to update your iPhone to get end-to-end encryption
• How to enable end-to-end encryption on Messenger
• Facebook is finally testing default encryption in Messenger

The post What is end-to-end encryption? appeared first on KnowTechie.