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Small actions, big impact: how to stay safe online
Small steps can have a huge impact on your online security. Discover practical tips for avoiding online scams, smart sharing on social media, and steps for healthier online life.
Useful online security tips and articles
True cyber security combines advanced technology and best practice. Get tips and read articles on how to take your online security even further.
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Report|Online Protection
F‑Alert report: cyber threats in April 2024
Scammers steal faces with AI. Click farms manipulate algorithms. Discover the latest scams in our F-Alert.
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Quick guide: Avoid malicious links during shopping season
Shopping scams surge during the Black Friday shopping season. Keep your money safe by spotting scam links before you click them. Read more in this quick guide.
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Can you track a phone that is turned off?
Learn how to track a phone that is turned off with methods like Find My iPhone, Google Maps, and Android tools. Quick tips to locate your device.
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How to secure your phone to protect yourself against mobile scams
Learn how to secure your phone to prevent scams. Discover tips to secure your device, prevent data theft, and safeguard against cybercriminals effectively.
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How to spot and report Amazon scams?
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Article
What is vishing?
Vishing is when a scammer calls you on the phone to get your personal information, get you to make a payment or install a program on your device. Read more and learn to spot vishing.
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Is my Social Security number being used for identity theft?
Because Social Security numbers allow for exclusive access to important information, online criminals are very interested in what they have to offer them.
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How to protect yourself from common Apple Pay scams
With the convenience of contactless payment technology come the hassles. Online criminals have found new ways to defraud users with common Apple Pay scams.
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Spike in scam SMS hits Finland’s trusted health, tax, and government services
A surge of fraudulent SMS messages is circulating, targeting users of various trusted healthcare, tax, and government services in Finland. Read how to identify and avoid these scams.
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FBI warns of fraudulent schemes targeting 2024 U.S. voters
Under the 2024 U.S. General Election approaches, the FBI has issued a warning about election-themed scams targeting voters across the country. Read more.
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Article
Malicious mods: the Sims 4 infostealer threatens gamers’ security
Learn how malicious Sims 4 mods disguised as legitimate updates spread infostealer malware, compromising player data and hijacking popular modder accounts.
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4 sneaky online shopping scams and how to avoid them
Online shopping scams are getting more convincing and harder to spot. But there are tell-tale signs to look out for when establishing whether a retailer is legit or not.
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Article
Students targeted in new money mule scams: are you at risk?
Criminals are exploiting students by using their bank accounts for money laundering. Here’s how it works.
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Article
Unmasking “Double Jeopardy”: a Telegram bot spreading malware and scam subscriptions
F-Secure Labs looked into a Telegram bot named “Double Jeopardy” that spreads malware and scam subscriptions. Read the thorough analysis.
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10 must-know tips for safe online shopping
By following these safe online shopping tips you can take the stress out of purchasing goods and services online, and focus on the important thing: buying cool stuff.
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Article
How imposter scams generated $2.7 billion in just one year
From voice cloning and deepfakes to AI-enhanced phishing attempts, learn how to protect yourself from scammers impersonating the people you trust.
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Article
USA Kaspersky ban 2024: why did it happen — and what now?
The US government issued a ban on Kaspersky products in USA in June 2024. Find out what the Kaspersky ban means for you.
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Article
US healthcare data breaches: why do they want patient data?
Patient data is a valuable commodity. Learn what’s exposed, how hackers use data, and how to protect yours.
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7 sneaky Netflix scams to protect your Netflix account from
Discover the latest Netflix scams to watch out for: from hacked smart TVs and subscription expiry phishing scams to fake Netflix job postings.
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Article
How to stop Facebook Messenger scams and boost account security
Learn how to identify and protect yourself from scam messages and fake accounts on Facebook Messenger.
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Article
Robocalls 101: are automated calls illegal and how do you stop them?
AI robocalls are now banned in the US — but will this deter scammers? Here’s how you can block spam calls yourself.
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Article
5 scam statistics that you need to know in 2024
F-Secure’s latest Living Secure survey reveals increases in cyber scams and concerns about online safety. Here are the top five insights.
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Article
New F-Secure survey reveals increasing scam threat
The 2024 Living Secure survey found that online worries are still prevalent, with technology like generative AI making scams harder to spot.
Report|Scams
Living Secure 2024 reveals an increase in scams as threats evolve
The Living Secure survey collects insight from 7,000 people in selected regions around the world, enabling us to discover how people really feel about their digital security in 2024.
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F-Alert Report: 2024 summer cyber security tips & online threats
WhatsApp imposters. Real-time deepfakes. Discover your summer cyber survival toolkit in our F-Alert.
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From the 2024 Olympics to the Euros, watch out for these ticket scams for summer events
With exciting sporting events fast approaching, it’s a summer for sports fans — but it’s also prime time for scammers. This is how to protect yourself.
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Have I been pwned? 4 steps to take if your email has been compromised
If your email has been pwned, your personal information is in danger. This article guides you on what to do next.
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Is LinkedIn safe? How to spot fake profiles and secure your account in 2024
LinkedIn is the most popular professional platform that we love to network on — but we aren’t the only ones using it for professional pursuits.
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SMS spam or a genuine gift from Amazon, Apple or McDonald’s?
SMS spam. It’s everyone’s pet hate — but it may not be forever. Here’s the future of spam prevention.
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How 62% of social media phishing actors lure you with Facebook
Criminals love to use Facebook as a lure for phishing attacks — watch out for these common scam tactics.
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Identity theft scams: why do criminals want your personal data?
From credit card to loan and lease fraud, we explain how criminals steal your identity and what they do with it.
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Article
Lookout’s consumer business is now F‑Secure Mobile Security
We’ve combined forces with F-Secure to protect digital lives everywhere.
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Job scams on LinkedIn: what are they and how to stay protected
With over 900 million people worldwide using LinkedIn, the platform has become the primary service for job seekers looking to discover career and networking opportunities.
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Is my phone hacked? Here’s how you can tell and what to do
Phones are lucrative targets of attacks because they hold so much valuable information stored in a single place, such as private or financial information.
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Instagram scams and how to avoid them
Instagram is one of the most popular social media platforms in the world. More than 1.3 billion people use Instagram, with the average user spending 30 minutes per day.
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I clicked on a link in a spam text: now what?
If you own a smartphone or computer, you likely are familiar with spam messages. “Spam” refers to unsolicited messages sent in bulk, most often via email or text messages.
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Facebook Marketplace scams: how to identify and avoid them
As Facebook Marketplace has grown in popularity, Facebook Marketplace scams are also rising.
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F-Secure study identifies an ongoing consumer scam surge
To shed light on the world of digital scams, we commissioned a survey that spoke to 1,000 U.S. consumers to understand where (and how frequently) people encounter scams, whether they have fallen victim to scammers, and the associated impact.
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12 Cash App scams to know and how to avoid them
Cash App makes it easy to receive and send money and is renowned for its convenience. These transactions are generally safe, but users could still be susceptible to scams.
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8 signs your phone has a virus and what to do about it
While phone viruses are less common than computer viruses, they certainly exist, and iPhones or Android devices are both susceptible to risks.
Article
5 scam detector and prevention tools to keep AI scammers at bay
From checking text messages to analyzing online shops, find the tools you need to stay safe online — for free.
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3 clever social media scams and how to avoid them
From TikTok trends to Facebook shopping scams, learn how criminals use social media to their advantage.
Article
How to dodge banking scams like the “Phantom Hacker”
Banks across the world have issued warnings about a rise in scam attempts. Here’s how you can avoid them.
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Article
2024 is the year of the scam — and this is why
In this article, F-Secure Threat Intelligence Lead, Laura Kankaala, explores the emerging significance of scams today, and the value of protecting our digital lives against them.
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Article
Artificial intelligence in everyday life
A look at the beginning of a revolution that will transform technology and, possibly, humanity.
Article
Trending fake SMS: scam text messages you should ignore
From fake failed deliveries to bank impersonations, these are the scam text messages to keep an eye out for.
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Top 5 cyber security threats right now
The eruption of artificial intelligence (AI) in 2023 suggests digital technology will become even smarter, more powerful, and more personal in 2024.
Article
Valentine’s Day to Black Friday scams: how to spot fake online deals
Online shopping is a year-round activity; scammers use these common tactics to successfully take our cash.
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Best VPN 2024
The best VPN is not the same product for everyone, as user needs are different. Read our comprehensive VPN guide and tips to help you find the best VPN 2024 for you.
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Why your every password matters
A leaked password endangers your personal information and can lead to online identity theft. Read on to find out how.
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Article
F-Alert Report: cyber threats in March 2024
The largest known data leak. AI voice cloning scams personalized to victims. Discover the latest threats here.
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Article
F-Alert: February Threat Report
In this F-Alert, we look at how the world’s AI leader is handling new security threats. Plus you’ll find out how you can secure your accounts and spot the latest scams.
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How to spot and avoid PayPal scams
Is PayPal safe to use for your online shopping? Read more and avoid common PayPal scams.
Article
What is a spear phishing attack?
Spear phishing attacks can cause great damage to both individuals and organizations. Read more to stop phishing scams.
Article
Can my WhatsApp account get hacked?
Being one of the most popular instant-messaging apps, WhatsApp has its fair share of threats that can compromise your account. Here’s how to stop your WhatsApp from getting hacked.
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Do you need a VPN for iPhone devices?
Although iPhones are generally safe, hackers and other snoopers can still infringe on your privacy. Use a VPN to improve your online privacy and protect your data.
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What is spoofing?
Online criminals and scammers use spoofing to deceive you. Learn to identify a spoofing attack to protect your information online.
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How AI scam calls work
Online criminals have weaponized artificial intelligence to scam their victims. AI voice scams and fake calls are one malicious form of cyber crime.
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What is spyware?
Spyware collects information on you without your consent. Read more about spyware and how you can avoid spyware on your computer and mobile.
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What is social engineering?
Social engineering attacks exploit the weakest point of people’s personal cyber security — the user itself. Read more and avoid social engineering.
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What is smishing?
Text messages can be a risk to your personal information and financial details too. Learn more about smishing and how to protect yourself against it.
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What is identity theft? Everything you need to know
What is identity theft? In this guide you’ll discover how to protect yourself, how to spot breaches, and what to do if your data is exposed.
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What are disinformation and misinformation?
Look out for disinformation, misinformation and fake news on the internet. Read more and spot incorrect information.
Article
What is cyber security?
Cyber security is becoming more and more important as the dangers lurking on the internet continue to grow. Read more about cyber security!
Article
What is a VPN?
Want more control over your online privacy? Do you know the dangers of a free VPN service? Read on to find out how a secure VPN can help.
Article
What is a Trojan?
A computer Trojan is a virus in disguise. Trojans trick you into letting them into your device. Read more about the Trojan horse virus.
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What is a data breach?
Data breaches can lead to identity theft and other harm. Do you know what to do in case of a data leak? Read more and keep your personal data safe.
Article
What is a cyber attack?
Cyber attacks by hackers and state-sponsored actors are a growing threat. Read more about different types of cyber attacks with examples.
Article
What is a computer virus?
Computer viruses are malware that can have many nasty side effects if they infect your device. Read how to stop computer viruses.
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VPN for PC
With a VPN you browse online privately and securely wherever you are. Read more to find the best VPN software for your Windows PC.
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Two‑factor authentication or a strong password
Most online services now offer two‑factor authentication (2FA). As a result, some people no longer see the need for a strong password. But is this the right approach?
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The social and gaming platforms most popular for phishing in 2023
Discover how phishing scammers are turning to social and gaming platforms. Learn how to identify scams and avoid becoming victims of this increasingly prevalent threat.
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The parent’s guide to keeping kids safe online
A big part of your children’s lives happens online. These tips for parents will help your kids enjoy the internet more safely.
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The expert guide to safe shopping and avoiding fake websites in 2024
F‑Secure experts deliver the ultimate guide to safe shopping and avoiding fake websites.
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The best antivirus for gaming
Awarded for best protection and performance, F‑Secure Internet Security is the best antivirus for gaming. Get both security and speed.
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Staying ahead of cyber threats in the age of AI
Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing life as we know it. Download your free ebook today and find out how to stay ahead of cyber threats in the age of AI.
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Small business cyber security checklist
Small businesses need cyber security. This small business cyber security checklist helps you choose the right measures to protect your small office/home office.
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Screen time and kids
Why is it that free security doesn’t cost you money? The hard truth is that free apps often come with a catch: they might sell your data. Read more.
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Parental control makes internet safe for kids
Parental control gives you the tools to protect your children online. It’s how you can make internet safe for kids and ensure their wellbeing online. Read more!
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No pride without privacy
Even data collection with best intentions puts LGBTQ+ internet users at risk. Read more in this article.
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Mobile malware
Just like computers, mobile devices are susceptible to malware. Read more about mobile malware and keeping your devices safe.
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Living Secure: discover the digital moments that matter in 2023
The Living Secure survey collects insight from 7,000 people, in selected regions around the world, enabling us to create a comprehensive overview of digital moments in 2023.
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Is this webshop safe? 4 easy ways to check website safety
F‑Secure experts reveal why you need to look beyond the lock icon when it comes to checking ecommerce security.
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Is public Wi‑Fi safe?
Is public Wi‑Fi safe? How to increase public Wi‑Fi safety? This article by F‑Secure answers these questions and gives you simple safety tips. Read more here!
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“Is online dating safe?” Discover 5 activities that lead to internet dangers
Discover 5 activities that lead to internet dangers and learn how to spot and avoid the most common cyber threats associated with them.
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LGBTQ+ people deserve privacy
Pride month offers an annual reminder that even data collection with best intentions presents unique risks for LGBTQ+ internet users.
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A denial-of-service attack is like an internet traffic jam
An attacker takes down a website by blocking the path with a massive amount of web traffic. Find out how you can stop hackers from using your device in these attacks.
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“Identity theft is not a joke, Jim!” How can I protect my sensitive data online?
By following these 7 simple steps you can ensure that you are protected against the financial and emotional impact of identity theft.
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How to spot scam websites on Black Friday and Cyber Monday
Discover how to spot scam websites this Black Friday and Cyber Monday with advice and tips from F‑Secure’s team of cyber security specialists.
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How to report a scam website fast
Discover how to report a scam website as we reveal five ways to blow the whistle on cyber criminals.
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How to remove a virus on Android phone
Viruses and malware for Android exist. This guide explains how to remove virus from your Android device.
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How to protect your phone from hackers
Mobile devices need protection just like computers do. How to protect your phone and tablet from hackers? Read extensive mobile security guide by F‑Secure here!
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How to keep your money safe online
Get started with safe online shopping with this article. Learn to avoid online scams and find out how to keep your money safe online. Read more
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How to go incognito and browse in private
Going incognito with private browsing makes it harder to track you online. But who is tracking you online? And how can you stop it? Read here to find out!
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How to get rid of a virus?
Removing computer viruses is not easy without the right tools. Read how to spot and get rid of viruses on your device.
Article
How to change IP address
Change your IP address location to unlock more internet and protect your privacy. Here’s how you change your IP. Read more!
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How account takeover happens
Account takeover can lead to online identity theft and cause financial damage. Find out how account takeover happens, and how to protect yourself.
Article
Free VPN
A free VPN is tempting but can slow down your Internet and jeopardize your privacy. Use our guide to assess whether a free VPN is the best option for you.
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Free antivirus
A free antivirus may sound tempting but is not always a safe way to protect your devices. Read how to stay safe using reliable antivirus software.
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What is a firewall?
A firewall is an additional layer of protection online. Read more about the different types and uses of a firewall.
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F‑Alert: End of year report
In this supersized edition of F‑Alert, we look back at the biggest cyber security news and forward to see how the New Year could transform both the internet and reality itself.
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F‑Alert October 2023
Find how criminals use QR codes. See why Google wants you to forget passwords. Learn why most shopping scams start with Facebook ads. All this and more in this month’s F‑Alert.
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F‑Alert September 2023
See which cyber threats you’re most likely to face. Find out why the Dark Web is so confusing, and profitable. All this and more in this month’s F‑Alert.
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F‑Alert August 2023
Learn about an “uncensored” app that reveals the risks of malicious AI. See how Google is fighting stalking via Apple AirTags and the latest threats news in this month’s F-Alert.
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F‑Alert June 2023
Learn what employees should do when the companies they work for are breached. Get the lowdown on why you can’t take Apple security for granted. All in the summer edition of F‑Alert.
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F‑Alert May 2023
See how Google is trying to replace passwords. Find out how to identify fake images generated by AI. And much more in the latest edition.
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F‑Alert April 2023
Find out about the takedown of one of the biggest criminal marketplaces on the web. Discover how AI can be used to scam you. And much more in the latest edition.
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F‑Alert March 2023
Find out how parents may pay when criminals target gamers. Discover how “pig butchering” scams break hearts and empty bank accounts. And much more in the latest edition.
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F-Alert February 2023
Learn how scammers targeted Valentine’s Day. Discover the impact of the latest Reddit data breach. And much more in the latest edition.
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F-Alert January 2023
Learn how scammers are targeting Instagram influencers. Discover the impact of the latest Twitter data breach. And much more in the latest edition.
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F-Alert December 2022
In this edition we review the security implications of AI tools like ChatGPT, we chart the rise of dark web marketplaces, and we reveal a new TikTok exploit.
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F-Alert November 2022
In this report, we’ll offer a crisp look at the cyber security news you need to know along with insights and advice from the experts in the F‑Secure Labs.
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F‑Alert — Discover the latest cyber security news and insights
Get the all-new monthly threats report. Featuring the latest cyber security news and insight.
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What is the dark web?
The dark web is an anonymous part of the internet that is often used by online criminals and hackers. Read more about the dark and deep web.
Article
What are cookies?
Website cookies collect data about your online activity. Read more about how cookies and data collection affect your privacy online.
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What is a computer worm?
Computer worms are a type of malware that spreads by replicating itself. Read how to spot a computer worm and stay protected.
Article
Can my home Wi‑Fi be hacked?
If you’re worried about the security of your home network, read the tips from cyber security company F‑Secure and prevent hackers from accessing your network.
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Article
F-Secured: Your complete guide to online security in 2024
The annual F-Secured Threats Guide offers a complete look at threats to online security in 2024.
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F‑Secured: your free 38-page guide to online security in 2023
The F‑Secured guide provides a comprehensive overview of the cyber security threats facing consumers in 2023, featuring insight and advice from F‑Secure experts.
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7 reasons why F‑Secure Total is better than free antivirus
Why is it that free security doesn’t cost you money? The hard truth is that free apps often come with a catch: they might sell your data. Read more.
Article
6 things to consider when choosing a VPN
VPN ensures your security and privacy online. Find out, how to choose a VPN you can trust.
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Article
5 ways to minimize your risks after a data breach alert
Discover the steps you should take to prevent ID theft and other online crimes when you find out you’ve been the victim of a data breach.
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5 tips on how to stay safe online
Want to stay safe online? With all its good sides, the internet is also full of threats. Here are five simple tips on how to stay safe online. Read more now!
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4 things Tinder knows about you
Discover what the dating app Tinder knows about you and how criminals can use your data to improve their scams and cyber attacks.
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Article
5 quick and easy ways to avoid identity theft
The theft of personal information can be costly and stressful. In this post we reveal how you can avoid the personal and financial impact of identity theft.
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Article
5 phishing scams to avoid in 2023
Phishing scams are one of today’s biggest online threats. And with cyber criminals enlisting the help of technology like AI, they are becoming harder than ever to spot. In this post we reveal five classic phishing scams — showing you how to spot and avoid them.
Article
Useful online security tips and articles
True cyber security combines advanced technology and best practice. Get tips and read articles on how to take your online security even further.
Article
What is an antivirus?
An antivirus is a useful piece of software for detecting and removing malware, such as computer viruses. Read more about why you should equip all of your internet-connected devices with an antivirus.
Article
What is two-factor authentication (2FA)?
Two-factor authentication (2FA) improves your online security and prevents hackers from accessing your accounts. Read more about 2FA.
Article
Why hackers want your personal information — and how to protect it
We often hear about data breaches, but what we don’t hear is what is done with the stolen personal information. Read on to find out.
Article
Antivirus for Android
Antivirus software protects your device against different online threats, such as viruses. Threats to Android devices are on the rise, so you need to be protected at all times with an antivirus.
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Article
4 practical tips on what to do after a data breach
It isn’t always possible to stop your personal information appearing in a data breach. But if your details do appear in a breach then simply follow these steps to keep your identity secure.
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Article
3 trending cyber threats in 2023
Cyber threats are always evolving, and it can be difficult to keep up with the tactics used by scammers. Here we highlight three of the most prevalent cyber threats facing consumers in 2023, with advice on how to identify and deal with them.
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Article
3 expert tips to create a secure password
There’s more to a secure password than meets the eye. Discover three tips from security experts that will enhance your password protection and ensure your details never fall into the hands of cyber criminals.
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Article
6 malware tips to protect you and your family
By following some simple malware tips you can ensure that you and your family remain protected from the most prevalent cyber threats. In this post we’ve showcased six ways that you can improve your cyber security and keep malware at bay.
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Article
7 things to teach your kids about internet safety
Keeping children safe from online threats starts with awareness. Share these seven tips with your kids, so they can enjoy the internet’s benefits safely.
Article
Ask an expert: is identity theft protection worth it?
Olli Bliss, Business Development Manager at F‑Secure, discusses the issue of online identity theft and how best to protect against it.
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Article
5 ways privacy protection benefits you
Your online privacy is worth protecting. Doing that with a VPN also has other benefits. Read below how protecting online privacy helps you.
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8 cyber security tips for remote work
Cyber security at home office is often up to you. But how to tackle the challenges? Read our tips for secure remote work below.
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Discover the top types of malware for 2023
There are many types of malware that can affect you. In this post we reveal the top malware threats for consumers and explain how to protect against them.
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What is spam?
Spam messages are a common nuisance online. Unfortunately, they are not simply a harmless annoyance but can pose a real threat to internet users. Read how to detect spam and protect yourself from it.
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What is phishing?
Phishing is when an attacker tricks you into opening a malicious link or email attachment by masking them as something interesting. Read on to find out about what is phishing and how you can stay safe.
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Article
Does my device have a virus?
“Computer virus” is often used to describe all the different types of malware. But how can you know if your device has a virus or malware? Find out below.
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5 fast and free ways to boost your safety online
Tackling online safety issues does not always have to be expensive and tiresome. These 5 quick tips boost your online safety a lot — and for free.
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What is a distributed denial of service attack (DDoS)?
A denial of service attack or DoS attack can take down websites and online services. But how do denial of service attacks work? And how are DoS attacks different from DDoS attacks? Read more to find out.
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Article
The result is in: F‑Secure 40 – Ransomware 0
AV-TEST pitted F‑Secure Internet Security against ransomware attacks. And we stopped them all: scoring 40/40. Even the most advanced attackers can’t beat this defense!
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What is a ransomware attack?
Ransomware is among the most harmful forms of malware. Imagine having to pay to access the files on your own device. That’s how bad ransomware attacks are. Find out what ransomware is and how you can protect yourself.
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Do iPhones need antivirus? Navigating the evolving threat landscape for Macs, iPhones, and iPads
It’s a common myth that Mac and iOS devices don’t need online protection. But do Macs, iPads and iPhones need antivirus?
Article
What is malware?
Malware is an umbrella term for all malicious software, such as computer viruses, trojans, and spyware. Malware is a serious cyber security threat to both individual users and organizations.