Total Defense

Security & Safety Resource Center

Learn about today's current internet threats and how to stay safe and secure.

Miscellaneous

Miscellaneous Total Defense Internet Security posts


IRS emails? Think twice!

You’ve probably heard it before, but it’s worth repeating: The IRS will never initiate contact with you via email or text message. Scammers love to impersonate the IRS. They might send emails demanding immediate payment, threatening legal action, or offering fraudulent refunds. Here’s what to do: Remember: The IRS will always communicate with you through […]

Stop the cryptomining madness: how to block background miners

Ever noticed your computer running slower than usual, even when you’re not doing anything demanding? It could be a sign that something sneaky is happening in the background: cryptocurrency mining. Cryptocurrency mining is the process of using powerful computers to solve complex mathematical problems. The reward? Cryptocurrency. But these mining operations can be resource-hungry, slowing […]

Stop auto-connecting to Wi-Fi when you travel

Traveling can be stressful enough without worrying about your devices getting hacked. One sneaky way cybercriminals can sneak into your digital life is through your Wi-Fi. Many devices automatically scan for available networks and connect without your knowledge. This can leave you vulnerable to attacks. So, how can you protect yourself? By taking these simple […]

Digital bodyguard needed—antivirus software to the rescue

Our computers hold a lot of important stuff, so keeping them safe from malware is essential. Here’s where antivirus software comes in: So, how does antivirus software work? Why should you consider antivirus software? Bonus Tip: Keep your antivirus software up-to-date to ensure it has the latest protection against evolving threats. By having a reliable […]

Passwords— level up from “password123”

We all use passwords for a million things, but are yours strong enough to stop a hacker? Here’s why complex passwords are your best defense: So, how can you create super-strong passwords? Here are some tips: Bonus Tip: Consider a password manager. It securely stores all your strong passwords so you don’t have to remember […]

Drowning in spam—fight back with email filters

Ever feel like your inbox is overflowing with unwanted emails? You’re not alone! Spam emails can be annoying, time-consuming, and even dangerous. Here’s how to take back control of your inbox: Here’s how combining email filters and spam tagging helps you win the war against spam: Bonus Tip: Be careful about what information you share […]