Error message

  • Deprecated function: implode(): Passing glue string after array is deprecated. Swap the parameters in drupal_get_feeds() (line 394 of /home/cay45lq1/public_html/includes/common.inc).
  • Deprecated function: The each() function is deprecated. This message will be suppressed on further calls in menu_set_active_trail() (line 2405 of /home/cay45lq1/public_html/includes/menu.inc).

Feed aggregator

New forum topics

Predator: Badlands new trailer confirms the Alien and Predator reunion I've been waiting for

TechRadar News - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 11:20
  • Predator: Badlands now has a full length trailer
  • It reveals that Elle Fanning's protagonist character is a Weyland-Yutani synth
  • This is exciting news for those wanting more Alien vs Predator in their life

Predator: Badlands just dropped a new trailer that has delighted fans, including myself, as it incorporates elements of both the Alien and Predator franchises.

Since the original Alien vs Predator movie was released in 2004, we've seen a lot of spinoffs that solely focus on one of the two creatures but now it seems the two universes are properly merging once again.

Xenomorphs are set to reappear in Hulu's upcoming Alien: Earth. Meanwhile, Predator was last seen in Predator: Killer of Killers (check our ranking of every chapter in the animated anthology movie) and before that Prey, which senior entertainment reporter Tom Power called "the best Predator movie since the 1987 original" in his Prey review.

Prey's director Dan Trachtenberg is also directing Predator: Badlands, so many are expecting it to be another very strong entry into the series. Take a look at the trailer for one of this year's new movies below.

What is Predator: Badlands about?

The official plot reads: "In the future on a remote planet, a young Predator, outcast from his clan, finds an unlikely ally in Thia and embarks on a treacherous journey in search of the ultimate adversary."

So, this confirms that a Predator and a Weyland-Yutani synth are indeed teaming up in Predator: Badlands, and it's very exciting to see these two worlds colliding again.

Predator: Badlands does have some serious sci-fi vibes in its first trailer, which I'm a huge fan of, and I'm sure there'll be plenty of action and thrills to enjoy whether or not you're team Alien or Predator.

Confirmed cast so far include Elle Fanning as Thia and Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi as Dek (the Predator), and they are definitely shaping up to be one very cool duo.

You might also like
Categories: Technology

'The Fantastic Four: First Steps' Review: Phenomenal Visuals and Heart-Centered Story Will Satisfy Fans

CNET News - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 11:19
Marvel does Jack Kirby right with this one.
Categories: Technology

Linux users are about to face another major Microsoft Secure Boot issue

TechRadar News - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 11:18
  • A signing key that many Linux distributions use to support Secure Boot is about to expire
  • Sytems that fail to recognize the new key might fail to boot Linux securely
  • Users might need to disable Secure Boot to install or run Linux

A signing key used to support Secure Boot on many Linux distros is about to expire, which could open up devices to all sorts of cybersecurity risks.

Secure Boot is a security feature built into modern computers. It is part of the Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI), which makes sure that only trusted software can run when the system starts up. This helps block malware such as bootkits, and it relies on digital signatures and keys stored in the computer’s firmware.

In short - UEFI boots up, checks the right software is in place, and hands things over to the operating system.

Locking the database down

Now, Microsoft has a signing key that many Linux distributions use to support Secure Boot, and that key is set to expire on September 11, 2025.

A replacement key has existed since 2023, but apparently - many systems don’t support it yet, and for those that don’t recognize the new key, it could mean Linux will not boot securely.

Fixing this problem requires firmware updates from original equipment manufacturers (OEM) but there is a risk that not all OEMs will issue updates - especially those for older, or less popular devices.

There is also a tool called “shim”, which some Linux distros use to work with Microsoft’s Secure Boot infrastructure. It is signed with Microsoft’s (soon-to-expire) key, and if it doesn’t get replaced on time, Secure Boot may break those distros entirely.

As a result, some users might need to disable Secure Boot to install or run Linux, while others may need to manually update firmware, or generate their own keys (which is rather complex and could be risky for those without extensive technical knowledge).

All of this could push people to either stick with Windows, or avoid Secure Boot entirely, which opens up an entirely new can of worms.

Via Tom's Hardware

You might also like
Categories: Technology

Beware – Iran-linked fake VPN apps found to spy on Android users

TechRadar News - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 11:17
  • Researchers found a new spyware campaign mainly targeting Iranian Android VPN users
  • DCHSpy is leveraged by the Iranian cyber espionage group MuddyWater, which is thought to have links with Iran's Ministry of Intelligence and Security
  • The campaign started one week after the Israel-Iran conflict began, while VPN demand skyrocketed across the country

Researchers have discovered a new Iran-linked spyware campaign that mostly targets Android VPN users.

The team at security software provider, Lookout, found a new version of DCHSpy, an Android spyware that masquerades as legitimate VPN apps or other applications. This includes Starlink, a satellite internet connection service offered by SpaceX.

The malware campaign, according to experts' findings, was deployed by the hacking group MuddyWater only a week after the Israel-Iran conflict began – exactly when VPN demand skyrocketed in Iran as citizens looked for ways to bypass new internet restrictions.

DCHSpy 2025 – what are the risk?

virtual private network (VPN) is security software that encrypts all internet connections while spoofing a user's real IP address location. The latter skill is exactly what's needed to bypass geo-restrictions like those in place in Iran right now. (Image credit: Shutterstock / HTGanzo)

As experts explain, DCHSpy is an intrusive piece of software that can collect users' sensitive information like WhatsApp data, contacts, SMS, files, location, and call logs, while even recording audio and taking photos.

First detected in July 2024, DCHSpy is maintained by MuddyWater hackers, a group thought to have links with Iran's Ministry of Intelligence and Security.

Experts have now discovered four new samples of DCHSpy.

"These new samples show that MuddyWater has continued to develop the surveillanceware with new capabilities – this time exhibiting the ability to identify and exfiltrate data from files of interest on the device as well as WhatsApp data," explains Lookout.

Specifically, hackers appear to be using two malicious VPN services, called EarthVPN and ComodoVPN, as a way to spread the malware.

HideVPN was another fake VPN app previously used to deploy DCHSpy.

These are the malicious VPN apps used by MuddyWater hackers to inject DCHSpy spyware (Image credit: Lookout)

According to Iranian Information Security Analyst, Azam Jangrevi, the latest findings are a stark reminder of how sophisticated and targeted mobile surveillance has become.

"What’s especially concerning is its use of trusted platforms like Telegram to distribute malicious APKs, often under the guise of tools meant to protect privacy," Jangrevi told TechRadar.

The risk for Iranians is especially high, considering that, as mentioned earlier, citizens have been increasingly turning to the best VPN apps as the internet becomes increasingly restricted.

How to stay safe

Jangrevi recommends anyone looking to download a new VPN service, or any other application for that matter, to be vigilant.

"Avoid downloading apps from unofficial sources, even if they appear to offer enhanced privacy. Stick to verified app stores, scrutinize app permissions, and use mobile security solutions that can detect threats like DCHSpy," said Jangrevi.

If you’re in a high-risk region or profession such as journalism or activism, Jangrevi also suggests using hardware-based security keys and encrypted messaging apps vetted by independent researchers.

She said: "This incident underscores the need for greater awareness around mobile threat vectors and the importance of digital hygiene in an increasingly hostile cyber landscape."

You might also like
Categories: Technology

South Park Locks Into Paramount Plus With $1.5B Streaming Deal

CNET News - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 11:17
The creators of the animated series signed a deal to bring their show to Paramount Plus.
Categories: Technology

NordProtect made me rethink how I protect my personal information online

TechRadar Reviews - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 11:14

For many, much of our day-to-day life is now handled online, including financial management, shopping, family connections, work collaboration, and more. While digital technology offers numerous advantages, it also poses multiple security risks that threaten users both financially and personally.

Today's cybercriminals are constantly refining their tactics, deploying increasingly sophisticated attacks, including phishing scams, data breaches, and ransomware threats. These menacing strategies aim not only at financial theft but also often target our most sensitive data, leading to a cascade of complications that can significantly disrupt our lives.

This is where a dedicated identity theft protection service, like NordProtect, becomes invaluable. Acting as a real-time shield against potential threats, it provides proactive monitoring that continually watches over your personal information around the clock.

Picture receiving rapid alerts at the first hint of suspicious activity; this timely response can make all the difference in mitigating damage before it spirals out of control.

But it doesn't end there. Comprehensive recovery assistance provided by these services ensures that if the worst does happen, you're not navigating the aftermath alone. Specialists work with you to recover compromised accounts, restore your credit, and rebuild your digital identity, guiding you through each step with expertise and support.

NordProtect: Something new

Nord Security, the company behind the popular NordVPN, first introduced NordProtect in late 2023. At the time, it was only offered as part of NordVPN’s Prime plan in the U.S. In early 2025, however, the company expanded its availability, and NordProtect became available as a standalone product.

NordProtect: Plans and pricing

NordProtect offers three primary subscription levels: Silver, Gold, and Platinum. The first is the basic plan and includes features like dark web monitoring, credit monitoring (TransUnion), VantageScore 3.0 credit score, credit freeze assistance, identity theft recovery ($1M), cyber extortion protection ($50K), online fraud coverage ($10K), cyber attack coverage ($10K), malware breach alerts, and criminal records monitoring.

The mid-priced Gold plan includes all the features of the Silver plan, plus the NordVPN service and Threat Protection Pro. The premium Platinum plan is the most comprehensive, offering all the features of Silver and Gold, along with NordVPN, Threat Protection Pro, and a personal data removal service (Incogni).

You can purchase a subscription on a monthly, yearly, or two-year basis. There are discounts available on annual and two-year plans for the first year, and all plans come with a 30-day unconditional guarantee.

(Image credit: Future)

At the time of this writing, two-year subscriptions will save 63% off the regular price, with Silver costing $132 for the first 24 months, Gold at $204, and Platinum at $288. One-year packages are available with a 50% discount, priced at $90 for Silver, $126 for Gold, and $168 for Platinum. There’s no discount when paying for the NordProtect service on a monthly basis. For this, you’ll pay $15.49 for Silver, $21.49 for Gold, and $28.49 for Platinum.

Please note that prices for the year- and two-year plans revert to the regular price after the completion of the first term.

For this review, I opened a Platinum subscription.

NordProtect: Key features and offerings

NordProtect delivers a complete  suite of security  features that protect  personal information and enable  recovery from security  breaches with exact precision. The service delivers three core security components that monitor activity continuously and provide immediate alerts, together with financial protection, which form an integrated defense system for total identity security.

The NordProtect dark web monitoring service operates 24/7 to provide you with exceptional protection. The service  scans continuously through illegal online  marketplaces as well  as forums and  underground communities to detect  any leaked personal  data, such as email addresses, phone numbers, and  Social Security numbers.  You would receive immediate notifications when your information is compromised through this service, allowing you to react promptly and reduce potential security threats.

(Image credit: Future)

The credit monitoring service of NordProtect works in conjunction with TransUnion to provide you with financial protection features. This feature detects financial identity threats, including unauthorized account inquiries and new accounts opened using your personal information. The system provides detailed monthly reports on VantageScore 3.0 credit scores, as well as immediate alerts about potential fraudulent activities, helping you maintain continuous awareness of your financial situation.

The core strength of NordProtect is its outstanding identity theft recovery support system. When identity theft occurs, you are protected by up to $1 million in insurance coverage for such incidents. This coverage extends to eligible expenses, including legal fees, lost wages due to identity theft, and mental health counseling costs. The identity restoration process is supported by dedicated case managers who provide personalized assistance throughout your recovery journey. The service guides you in freezing your credit and helps you navigate the complex task of restoring your credit score.

The identity protection service NordProtect stands out because it includes both cyber extortion protection and online fraud coverage as exclusive features. The cyber extortion protection provides up to  $50,000 for expert assistance  and possible ransom  payments that occur when  cybercriminals threaten to reveal or erase  personal data.

NordProtect: Interface and in use

After extensive testing and hands-on experience with NordProtect, I found it to be remarkably user-friendly and intuitive. The primary access point is through a web-based dashboard within your Nord Account, which I appreciated for its centralized design. It allows for easy management and monitoring of various identity protection features, viewing alerts, and customizing settings—all without the need to download a separate application.

Being able to access NordProtect directly from a web browser significantly enhances its convenience. Additionally, I discovered that if you’re already a NordVPN Prime subscriber, you can seamlessly integrate these features into your existing Nord Account, which is a bonus.

During my testing across different devices and operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, I was impressed by the broad compatibility. This flexibility ensures that I can manage my identity protection effortlessly, regardless of whether I'm using my desktop or mobile device. Overall, my thorough evaluation confirms that NordProtect offers a solid solution for identity management.

The main drawback of NordProtect’s interface design stems from the separate methods users need to access NordVPN and Incogni. The NordVPN service is available with both Gold and Platinum subscriptions, whereas Incogni is only accessible through the Platinum plan. These software  solutions operate independently and use different  access methods. For example, users need to download the NordVPN app on their devices to access the service. The back-and-forth process between these services might create confusion for some users.

(Image credit: Future)

For some,  using Incogni could complicate things further. Nord Threat Protection Pro, which is part of NordVPN, and Incogni operate as separate services from Nord Security. They provide distinct yet supportive solutions for online privacy and security. Nord Threat Protection Pro provides real-time  protection against immediate online  threats. The digital  shield protects your browsing experience  by blocking malware , phishing sites  , ads, and trackers  regardless of VPN  status. The system exists to prevent dangerous content from ever reaching your system.

Incogni specializes in proactive data removal from data broker databases. Through automated  contact with brokers,  Incogni removes your personal  data, including names  , addresses, phone numbers, and financial records. Incogni operates  as a system that  tracks your data while sending periodic  deletion requests to minimize  your digital presence and protect you  from spam, scams , and identity theft. 

The bottom line: Nord Threat Protection Pro stops new threats from entering, but Incogni removes existing data exposure, creating a comprehensive protection system when used together.

NordProtect: Support

Nord offers comprehensive customer support primarily through its robust online Help Center, which features extensive FAQs, tutorials, and troubleshooting guides covering various topics, including account management, billing, connectivity, and app usage. For more personalized assistance, customers can readily access 24/7 live chat support, which is recommended for urgent issues due to its typically quick response times.

Alternatively, for more complex inquiries or when immediate assistance isn't critical, customers can opt for email support, with responses usually provided within a few hours. These support channels are often accessible directly through Nord's websites and even within their applications, ensuring convenient access for users. While traditional phone support or call centers are not typically offered, Nord's combination of self-help resources and direct messaging options aims to provide thorough and accessible support for its diverse customer base.

NordProtect: The competition

In the competitive landscape of identity theft protection, NordProtect faces several established rivals.

Aura stands out as a strong competitor, often lauded for its comprehensive catch-all service, which provides extensive identity monitoring, including home and auto titles, financial accounts, and criminal records. Aura also frequently bundles additional cybersecurity perks, such as a VPN, password manager, and antivirus.

LifeLock by Norton is another major player, known for its strong identity theft insurance, often offering up to $3 million in coverage across personal expense reimbursements, stolen funds, and legal fees. While NordProtect focuses on TransUnion for credit monitoring, LifeLock offers three-bureau credit monitoring in its higher-tier plans, providing a broader view of credit activity.

Identity Guard is a direct competitor that offers in-depth monitoring and credit tracking, with its top-tier plans including three-bureau credit monitoring.

IDShield distinguishes itself by providing up to $3 million in identity theft insurance and assigning licensed private investigators to identity theft cases, as well as monitoring court and public records.

Lastly, IdentityForce offers a good balance of features, including a personal identity safety score and a customized action plan, and provides up to $2 million in identity theft insurance.

While NordProtect is a newer entrant backed by a strong cybersecurity reputation and often bundled with other Nord Security products, its competitors frequently offer more extensive multi-bureau credit monitoring and, in some cases, broader family plan options. credit monitoring and, in some cases, broader family plan options.

NordProtect: Final verdict

NordProtect, launched by Nord Security in late 2023, has evolved from being part of NordVPN’s Prime plan to a standalone identity theft protection service available since early 2025. It offers Silver, Gold, and Platinum subscription tiers, with monthly, yearly, and two-year payment options, as well as discounts for annual and biennial plans during the initial term. All plans are backed by a 30-day unconditional guarantee.

The service provides a comprehensive suite of security features, including 24/7 dark web monitoring, credit monitoring in partnership with TransUnion, and identity theft recovery support, which includes up to $1 million in insurance coverage. Notably, NordProtect also provides cyber extortion protection (up to $50,000) and online fraud coverage.

Users primarily access NordProtect through a web-based dashboard within their Nord Account, which is user-friendly and compatible across various devices and operating systems. While centralized access is convenient, a minor point of friction arises from the separate access methods required for bundled services, such as NordVPN (included in Gold and Platinum plans) and Incogni (exclusive to Platinum). Nord Threat Protection Pro, available with Gold and Platinum, complements Incogni (Platinum only) by preventing new threats and addressing existing data exposure.

NordProtect provides comprehensive customer support through an online Help Center, 24/7 live chat, and email. However, traditional phone support or call centers are not typically provided.

In the competitive identity theft protection market, NordProtect competes with established players, including Aura, LifeLock by Norton, Identity Guard, IDShield, and IdentityForce. While NordProtect leverages Nord Security's strong cybersecurity reputation, some competitors offer more extensive multi-bureau credit monitoring and a wider range of family plan options. Overall, NordProtect stands as a robust solution for identity management, offering strong protective and recovery capabilities.

Categories: Reviews

ExpressVPN fixes security bug in Windows apps – here's all you need to know

TechRadar News - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 11:11
  • ExpressVPN issued an update to patch an RDP leak bug discovered by an independent researcher
  • The leak in the Windows ExpressVPN client was found in April, in code rolled out in March, so its recent audit could not have spotted the bug
  • ExpressVPN considers that "the likelihood of real-world exploitation was extremely low"

The ExpressVPN Windows client app has been updated to patch a leak vulnerability, discovered in April by an independent security researcher.

In a detailed blog post dated July 18, 2025, ExpressVPN – considered one of the best VPNs – confirmed the RDP bug that could have leaked users' real IP addresses, despite stating that "the likelihood of real-world exploitation was extremely low."

Nonetheless, a fix was issued in an update a few days later, meaning the bug should no longer exist, and cannot now be exploited.

What is an RDP leak?

(Image credit: sarayut Thaneerat/ via Getty Images)

RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) allows a remote connection from one device to another (typically PC to PC, or PC to server). When an RDP connection is established with a virtual private network (VPN) enabled, the expectation is that the data travels through the encrypted VPN tunnel.

When the data is not encrypted and bypasses the tunnel, it is referred to as a leak. Besides RDP, other encryption-dodging leaks can occur with VPNs, such as DNS leaks.

With this bug, the RDP connection could have been observed by an ISP (Internet service provider), or anyone with network access. Not only was the target IP address not encrypted – enabling an observer to see that a connection to ExpressVPN was running – but it would have been clear that remote servers were being accessed over RDP.

The attack, as demonstrated by researcher Adam-X, would result in the user’s actual IP address being revealed, but not their browsing activity.

The value of a VPN is that all data should be encrypted between the user’s device and the VPN server. While it is possible to manually exclude some apps from the VPN connection, that didn’t happen here. Note, however, that this was a bug in the Windows version of the ExpressVPN desktop client, and did not affect other versions.

Should ExpressVPN's no-log audit have found the leak?

This news was announced soon after ExpressVPN published the details of its latest successful no-log audit by KPGM. Should the bug have been detected in the audit, and should users have been informed sooner?

ExpressVPN has stated: “The problem was traced to a piece of debug code (originally intended for internal testing) that mistakenly made it into production builds (versions 12.97 to 12.101.0.2-beta).” They also confirm that Adam-X reported the bug on April 25.

ExpressVPN was audited in February 2025, and solely to ensure that its TrustedServer infrastructure never collects users’ logs as claimed.

Meanwhile, according to Uptodown’s repository of version updates, ExpressVPN production builds 12.97 to 12.101.0.2-beta were issued between March and May.

In short, KPMG’s audit of ExpressVPN’s servers could not have found the bug – even if it was tested for – as this did not exist at the time.

How many users were affected?

Most users typically won’t connect to a VPN before establishing an RDP session, so it is unlikely that this affected many users.

ExpressVPN is used mostly by individuals, rather than organizations, so the attack surface of this vulnerability should be minimal. Exploiting the bug also required an attacker to know about it, and to find a way to direct the victim to a malicious website.

The VPN provider has, however, stated that it is introducing more checks to find issues like this before builds are released, and improving automated testing.

ExpressVPN’s response to the bug report – just five days between filing by Adam-X and the first patch – is impressive. But why take so long to share the information publicly? Well, it’s a security matter.

You might also like
Categories: Technology

Ghost of Yōtei will likely take just as long to beat as Ghost of Tsushima as the game's creative director says both games are similar 'in terms of the time commitment'

TechRadar News - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 11:10
  • Ghost of Yōtei will take around the same time to beat as Ghost of Tsushima
  • The game's creative director, Jason Connell, has said both games are "a similar experience" and expects both to be the same "in terms of the time commitment"
  • Ghost of Tsushima's main story takes 25 hours to beat, suggesting Ghost of Yōtei will be roughly the same length

Sucker Punch has confirmed that Ghost of Yōtei will take around the same time to beat as Ghost of Tsushima.

That's according to Ghost of Yōtei's creative director, Jason Connell, who told VGC (thanks, GamesRadar) that both games are comparable in length, depending on one's playstyle, because the studio decided to stick with a similar scope to the first game.

"We designed the game with some of the similar numbers, in terms of scale and scope of the last experience, in mind," Connell said. "In that way, we actually found it to be quite satisfying, and there were some good numbers to jump off of."

He continued, saying, "We feel that the experience of playing through Ghost of Yōtei, whether you're just ripping through the story, or you're somebody that likes to just go through the whole world and explore, or you're that hardcore platinum chaser – that it is a similar experience [to that of Ghost of Tsushima], we expect, in terms of the time commitment."

According to How Long to Beat, on average, it takes around 25 hours to beat Ghost of Tsushima's main story, while it takes 62 hours to 100% complete the game, including all side quests and exploration.

Jason Connell's latest comments suggest that Ghost of Yōtei will take around the same time to beat.

Ghost of Yōtei launches on October 2, 2025, exclusively for PS5 and PS5 Pro.

Ghost of Yōtei pre-orders are now live, along with Ghost of Yōtei PS5 bundle pre-orders. If you're looking to get your hands on the exclusive PS5 controller, here's where you can buy the Ghost of Yōtei DualSense.

You might also like...
Categories: Technology

Forget no-log claims – this new VPN promises its tech can never reveal your identity, even if it wanted to

TechRadar News - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 11:06
  • Launched on July 27, 2025, a new VPN service seeks to fix issues with providers' trust
  • VP.net uses Intel SGX hardware to supposedly deliver "cryptographically verifiable privacy"
  • Researchers uncovered some vulnerabilities with Intel SGX systems in the past

A new VPN service has just landed in the market, promising to take a completely different technical approach to users' privacy.

Short for Verified Privacy, VP.net claims to be built in a way that physically separates users' identities from their browsing activity at the hardware level. By doing so, the provider seeks to fix issues linked to virtual private network (VPN) providers' trust. So, forget no-log VPN policies and welcome "cryptographically verifiable privacy."

The provider launched the app on June 27, 2025, across all major platforms, namely Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, and now strives to become the VPN of the future. Yet, not without some controversy.

The problem with no-log policies

(Image credit: VP.NET LLC)

All the best VPN services currently offer strict no-log policies. These guarantee that the provider never stores any of your identifiable data and are regularly checked with independent no-log audits.

The problem is that even third-party VPN audits require a dose of trust.

"An audit only proves that something was true at that moment in time. This is why we're bringing math and verifiable cryptography back into the mix so that when we say you're private, you're actually private," one of VP.net's founders, Andrew Lee, told TechRadar.

The founder of Private Internet Access (PIA), a popular no-log VPN provider, Lee later realized that many users now need a level of privacy that's not based on trust. He then teamed up with other privacy-committed developers to build a new type of VPN service.

That said, it's worth noting that PIA is among the companies that have proved their no-log claims in real life over the years, doing so not once but twice in court. Another example is Mullvad, which left a police raid empty-handed in Sweden back in 2023.

What VP.net does differently

The big novelty with VP.net lies in its tech. The company uses Intel SGX hardware, which promises to deliver "cryptographically verifiable privacy."

For the less techie out there, all you need to know is that all the sensitive operations, those that could somehow reveal your identity, occur in some so-called encrypted enclaves. These are secure and isolated spaces within the software infrastructure that physically prevent the VPN provider from accessing the activities happening inside.

Put it simply, this mechanism should make it "technically impossible to associate your identity with what you do online," explains the provider.

Not only encryption, though; the system also claims to use SGX attestation. This is a security mechanism that assures the encrypted enclaves work as they should, preventing the provider or any other third party from accessing the activities occurring inside. This is "verifiable by clients using Intel's attestation services," said the provider. You can see all VP.net's technical details here.

Crucially, VP.net also offers some protection against the tracking of metadata, meaning all the details that aren't the content. Echoing what NymVPN's innovative mixnet network and Mullvad's DAITA tool do, VP.net also employs some techniques to prevent traffic analysis and obscure actual usage patterns.

(Image credit: VP.NET LLC.)

Beyond the novel infrastructure, VP.net also includes all the classic features you'd expect from a VPN.

These include support for the secure and speedy WireGuard protocol, alongside security features like a kill switch and DNS leak protection. Adding post-quantum encryption support is also in the pipeline.

All the apps are fully open-source as well, so that anyone with the technical knowledge can check the code to see if the software behaves as it should. You can take a look at the provider's public repositories by heading to the VP.net GiftHub page.

Is it really bullet-proof?

Despite the good premises on paper, Intel SGX tech is certainly not without flaws.

In 2019, for example, a team of researchers discovered a way to run and hide malware on Intel systems. Worse still, this malicious software was undetectable by antivirus tools at the time.

This may be among the reasons why Intel patched multiple security holes in 2023, addressing many existing flaws and vulnerabilities.

Such a security fix certainly doesn't fully convince everyone in the industry, including the CEO of NymVPN, which is another VPN provider seeking to challenge issues with VPN providers' trust. "I prefer decentralization and advanced cryptography rather than believing Intel has produced a silver bullet," NymVPN's CEO, Harry Halpin, told TechRadar.

Another contentious point lies behind the VP.net team. Well-known names from the Bitcoin world, both Roger Ver and Mark Karpelès have had some legal issues in the past.

Commenting on the latter point, Karpelès told TechRadar: "For the way we build the system, there is no need to trust the team behind VP.net. We provide independent systems that verified by itself, as a connection if everything is safe. So, even if I wanted to connect or do anything like that, there's no way I could do anything."

You might also like
Categories: Technology

How to Watch England vs. Italy From Anywhere for Free: Stream UEFA Women's Euro 2025 Semi-final Soccer

CNET News - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 11:00
The Lionesses look to make it back-to back appearances in the final as they take on Le Azzurre in Geneva.
Categories: Technology

I just tested the first cheap AirPods rival that I didn’t prefer to Apple’s earbuds

TechRadar Reviews - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 11:00
Denon AH-C500W: Two-minute review

It’s something of a cliche among tech writers and audio fans to refer to any stem earbuds as a ‘cheap AirPods alternative’, before heaping upon it praise for being just as passable a pair of headphones as Apple’s are, or superior in some arbitrary way. I was almost ready to trot out that same, somewhat tired comparison with the new Denon AH-C500W to be perfectly honest. That was until I realised it was actually incorrect.

Not the part about them being AirPods rivals – you’ve seen the picture at the top of this review, even AirPods’ mom wouldn’t be able to tell the difference between her child and the Denon. And not about them being cheaper either; the AH-C500W do undercut Apple’s options.

No, I’m talking about the new Denon earbuds being superior. The Denon don’t have any unique selling point to beat the AirPods, no untouchable audio quality to keep them competitive, and a price that isn’t actually that cheap, in the grand scheme of things. If you’ve got an Android phone and so can’t use AirPods to anywhere near their full potential, here’s Denon, but if not they’re harder to recommend – and that's coming from me, an AirPods naysayer.

If you’ve not heard of Denon (not to be confused with Danone of yogurt fame), it's a celebrated Japanese audio company mainly focused on larger speakers, soundbars and AV set-ups, but also selling choice premium headphones and earbuds too. In this gilded array the AH-C500W are the odd duck, coming at a much more affordable price point than basically everything else on Denon’s website.

A blast from the past, the C500W use an open-fit ear design. No, not the fully open earbuds that’ve been launching left, right and center throughout 2025, but like AirPods: they sit in your ear but without any tip to wedge it in there. Instead, you cross your fingers and pray to whomever you believe in that they don’t fall out. In my testing the Denon never actually did, but they’d often move around in my outer ear slightly, which would affect music quality – and when I tried to fix it, the oversensitive touch controls would think I’d pressed ‘pause’ and stop my music. Not very handy.

Audio quality is actually fair, at least when you’re at home, but step outdoors into the noisy world and the lack of any kind of noise cancellation will have an audible effect on your listening. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) isn’t mandatory in earbuds, but open designs block virtually no noise, and I found myself wishing for ear tips to offer some relief from background noise.

Something else missing from the Denon AH-C500W is an app… that does anything truly meaningful. That is to say there is an app, but its only functions are to turn off touch controls or adjust your listening using the most barebones EQ I’ve ever seen.

If there’s anything resoundingly positive to be said for the Denon, it’s the design. AirPods comparisons aside these are sleek-looking, lightweight when in your ear and easy to tote around thanks to the tiny carry case. The latter in particular was a source of joy when going out with the earbuds – sometimes I test buds with huge containers that are a pain to put in my pocket, but not the Denons.

Denon AH-C500W review: Price and release date

(Image credit: Future)
  • Unveiled and released in April 2025
  • Costs $99 / £99 (roughly AU$209)
  • Already available cheaper

The Denon AH-C500W earbuds were announced in April 2025 and went on sale shortly afterwards. They were joined in this release by the AH-C840NCW, a slightly more expensive alternative which comes with ear tips and noise cancellation.

When announced, the buds were given the price of $99 / £99 (roughly AU$209) but three months later at the time of writing this review, the UK price is already down by £10 on Denon’s official website (and not via a sale, but as the default price) so you can pick them up for below RRP very easily.

I’ll save you clicking over to its review; the also-devoid-of-ANC Apple AirPods 4 cost $129 / £129 / AU$219 so they’re only slightly more expensive. That’s not the only competitor at this price point though and the splendid Nothing Ear (a), the Skullcandy Method 360 and Sony WF-C710N all match the Denon (in at least one country each, although in some others they're a hair pricier).

While the Denon AH-C500W are cheaper than the AirPods 4, it wouldn’t be right to refer to them as ‘cheap’ earbuds, and they’d need to cost at least 30% less to be considered budget alternatives.

Denon AH-C500W review: Specs

Drivers

12mm

Active noise cancellation

No

Battery life (ANC off)

7 hours (buds) 25 hours (case)

Weight

4.5g (buds) 50g (case)

Connectivity

Bluetooth 5.3

Waterproofing

IPX4

Denon AH-C500W review: Features

(Image credit: Future)
  • 7-hour battery life, 25 with case
  • No noise cancellation of any kind
  • App has few features

Pick up the Denon AH-C500W if you think the AirPods 4’s 5-hour battery life is awful – the Denon doesn’t do an awful lot better, but at least it’s not so noticeably below the class-leaders.

According to Denon’s stats – which I’d back, from my experience – the earbuds will last for 7 hours on a full battery. That’s roughly in line with industry standards, but remember that anything that’s average is worse than literally half of all other options. The charging case brings the full figure up to 24 hours which isn’t amazing either, and actually falls short of Apple, possibly because Denon opted to add wireless charging support instead of a bigger battery.

In the ‘Features’ section of our reviews, we generally talk about earbuds’ noise cancellation. The C500W doesn’t have any, something I bring up just in case anyone skipped the introduction to this review (no judgement, I sometimes do the same thing). If you use these, expect to hear what’s going on around you.

For the vast majority of my testing time, I used the Denon without a tie-in app, finding that searching ‘Denon’ in the Play Store brought up an AVR remote, and the buds work just fine without an app. Towards the end of the review period I realised that had I simply scrolled down I would have discovered that there actually is an app, called Denon Headphones, which I missed below myriad other apps from the company.

(Image credit: Future)

Downloading the app didn’t actually make much of a difference to my user experience though, and that’s because it doesn’t really add too many perks and features.

Nowhere is that exemplified more than in the equalizer, a feature which many would argue is all but necessary in earbuds these days. It’s the most barebones music customizer I’ve seen, offering a 5-band EQ and no presents, and I needed to slide each band to its extreme to hear even a noticeable difference.

Beyond that you’ve got a way to turn off and on touch controls, and to change some of the triggers (but not all of them), monitor which devices are connected to the buds and turn on LE Audio. Regarding the middle point, the buds offer Multi-point connection so you can use the Denon alongside two phones, tablets or computers at once, which is useful and becoming an industry standard now. Also, they're Auracast ready, another (hopefully) soon-to-be industry standard perk.

The AH-C500W do have one feature I really liked though. There’s wearer detection which you can customize by bud, so you can set up music to pause if you remove, say, the left earbud but not the right one, or only if you remove both buds. As someone who likes the idea of auto-pausing music but finds it annoying that songs stop if I remove one bud just to readjust it or as a polite gesture, this was a wonderful fix.

  • Features score: 3.5/5
Denon AH-C500W review: Design

(Image credit: Future)
  • Light, compact case and buds
  • Unreliable fit due to lack of tip
  • Black or white color options

I loved how small the Denon AH-C500W case is, definitely one of the teeniest carry cases I’ve seen in the wireless earbuds realm. It measures 58 x 48 x 28mm, and weighs 50g.

In a rare diversion from the AirPods playbook it’s a short and wide pebble-style case that opens to reveal the whole bud, not just the top, and I find this kind of design makes it easier to remove the bud. The only feature of note is a USB-C charging port on the back.

You can pick up the Denon in either white or black, and both the buds and case come in your chosen hue.

The earbuds weigh 4.5g and they’re dead ringers for AirPods, from their open design which means they hang (relatively) loose in your ear, to the stem which dangles down from your ear, and even down to the fact that the bud is angled slightly along your cheek.

(Image credit: Future)

Copying is largely accepted in the tech world, but I wish Denon had copied from another design playbook than the AirPods’, because the AH-C500W carries over all of the design's shortcomings. With that comment I’m largely looking at the open design, which means the body of the bud is wedged in your ear without a silicon tip or sports loop to keep it in place. A replaceable ear tip can offer some insulation from outside sound and keep an earbud from jostling around in your ear. The lack of it also means that the Denon is susceptible to sound leakage (both from outside to the listener, and from the buds to people nearby) and doesn’t sit particularly still in your ear.

The latter point isn’t horrible, and I’ve tested earbuds (even tip-bearing ones) that are worse, but almost every time I took the C500W for a walk I’d find myself fiddling with them to ensure they were sitting in my ear right – and after 10 minutes of walking they’d have shifted, and I’d have to repeat this process all over again.

The Denon have a touch control that you can press several times or hold for different controls, and the lack of a visual or touch indicator as to where this haptic button is means that you have to get used to the design yourself. And do you remember me saying I had to constantly fiddle with the earbuds in the last paragraph? Yeah – good luck doing so without accidentally pressing the enigmatic ‘pause’ button.

The buds have an IPX4 resistance to water, which makes them sweat-proof but not ready to survive jets of water.

  • Design score: 3.5/5
Denon AH-C500W review: Sound quality
  • Sole 12mm driver
  • Detailed sound, if you can even hear it
  • Lots of distortion in certain genres

(Image credit: Future)

The Denon pack 12mm drivers and 2 microphones each. A more intriguing feature present is called Masimo Adaptive Acoustic Technology or Masimo AAT, which Denon previously used in some other of its wireless earbuds. This is mentioned only on Denon’s website right at the bottom, and not in its app or marketing materials, so it’s hard to know what it actually does. Masimo’s own website suggests that it’s a listening test to create a personal listening profile, but no such feature is present in the app.

The audio quality of the AH-C500W is mixed, but that’s a mix of highs and lows. There’s a lot of quality and detail in music – you can hear the timbre and individual strings of a guitar strum, the bowing of a violin – but then there’s also quite a bit of peaking on instruments like hi-hats, acoustic guitars and percussions.

Your mileage with the buds will vary dramatically based on what kind of music you listen to. Certain genres will feed you a cacophony of hisses and hums, with instruments that the Denon distorts too easily, but when listening to other genres I could go for multiple songs without hearing an issue, and while enjoying top-quality music.

The sound profile of the buds is largely neutral, though there’s a more emphatic and pronounced bass than I was expecting given the form factor. That form factor is, at the end of the day, the biggest issue with the AH-C500W’s music quality. However songs sound in a vacuum (or at home), they sound a lot worse when outside noise is leaking in, or when your buds are constantly slipping in your ear to change position.

  • Sound quality: 3.5/5
Denon AH-C500W review: Value

(Image credit: Future)
  • Not amazing value by default
  • Wait for sales to pick up

When I first saw the Denon AH-C500W – and indeed, for the fortnight of testing before I started writing this review – I thought the buds cost about half as much as they actually do.

That’s because I made an assumption based on the feature set, sound quality and design, comparing it to similar traits in other buds on the market, and I presumed that these would cost about £50 / $70 / AU$100. The fact that they actually cost a lot more probably tells you all you need to about their value as a proposition in a hugely congested market.

If you can find them discounted further, the AH-C500W might be worth buying – you don’t have to wait for them to get as low as my presumed price – but at the original retail price, my verdict is that they don’t offer great value for money.

  • Value: 3/5
Should I buy the Denon AH-C500W?

(Image credit: Future)Denon AH-C500W score card

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Features

Passable battery life but not many other features to talk about.

3/5

Design

The buds are lovely and lightweight, though they're just not secure in your ear.

3.5/5

Sound quality

Sound is textured and detailed but it peaks often, and that's only when you can hear it in the first place.

3.5/5

Value

You're not getting amazing bang for your buck when you consider other budget options.

3/5

Buy them if…

You have an Android phone
Apple users can buy AirPods which are better for you, but Android owners need alternatives like the Denon.

You only listen in one spot
Bobbing up and down while you walk risks dislodging the Denons, but if you're only ever going to listen while seated at your desk, you'll appreciate the music quality.

You want a slender carry case
I've seen some monster charging cases in my time, ones that'll weigh your trouser pockets like rocks. Not here though.View Deal

Don’t buy them if…

You're not sold on the open design
I found the lack of ear tips infuriating, both for allowing in sound and for letting the buds wobble and move so much..

You need noise cancellation
Very few earbuds nowadays outside of true budget options lack active noise cancellation – just AirPods 4 (and even they have an ANC version nowadays).

Denon AH-C500W review: Also consider

Denon AH-C500W

Nothing Ear (a)

Sony WF-C710N

Denon AH-C840NCW

Drivers

12mm

11mm

5mm

12mm

Active noise cancellation

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Battery life

7 hours (buds) 25 hours (case)

5.5 hours (buds); 24.5 hours (case)

12 hours (buds) 30 hours total (with case)

10 hours (buds) 35 hours (case)

Weight

4.5g (buds) 50g (case)

4.8g (buds); 40g (case)

5.2g (buds); 38g (case)

5.1g (buds) 54g (case)

Connectivity

Bluetooth 5.3

Bluetooth 5.3

Bluetooth 5.3

Bluetooth 5.3

Waterproofing

IPX4

IP54

IPX4

IPX4

Nothing Ear (a)
Released at the same price as the Denons, these buds may have a worse battery life but they have a solid feature set, energetic sound and reliable design. There's a reason we gave them a five-star review.

See our full Nothing Ear (a) review

Denon AH-C840NCW
The AH-C500W's contemporary may cost a little more, but it fixes all of the problems of the cheaper buds. The battery life is better, there's noise cancellation and the buds have tips to stick into your ear well. Our review is incoming – watch this space!

How I tested the Denon AH-C500W
  • Tested for at least three weeks
  • Tested at home, in the office and on walks

I used the Denon AH-C500W for at least three weeks before writing this review, and possibly for a month (I didn't keep track religiously). I tested them alongside their contemporary siblings, the AH-C840NCW.

The buds were paired with my Android smartphone for testing and I used them on apps like Spotify, YouTube, Netflix and certain games during the testing period. Spotify was the main one though. Testing was done at home, around my neighborhood and at the gym.

I've been reviewing audio products for TechRadar for years now, including products made by many of Denon's rivals.

  • First reviewed in July 2025
Categories: Reviews

It's Wise to Wash All Produce, but These 12 Fruits and Veggies Are the Dirtiest

CNET News - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 10:47
Most produce arrives to your home safe for consumption, according to the USDA, but washing these 12 types of fruits and vegetables is still a good idea.
Categories: Technology

I reviewed the Boulies OP300 - and this comfortable office chair is ideal for every professional workspace (and without the premium price tag)

TechRadar Reviews - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 10:41
Boulies EP200: 30-second review

If I asked you to draw a picture of an office chair, I strongly suspect you'd show me something that looked a lot like the Boulies OP300.

To me, it's professional seating well-suited for professional spaces. Now, I’m a big fan of the company’s EP200 office chair (you can read my review here). One of my main issues with it, though, is the limited availability outside the UK. Thankfully, that’s not an issue with the OP300 office chair, which is readily available in both the UK and the US.

With that in mind, I was keen to try out the OP300 - formerly, and briefly, known as the EP300. For what it’s worth, the EP series are for those using an office chair for around six hours a day, while the OP range are aimed at professional settings, gaming, and those using the chair for over eight hours a day. I’m not sure I fully agree with this division. I use the EP200 for at least eight hours a day without fatigue or discomfort. But maybe that’s besides the point.

It’s a smart, all-black ergonomic seat that looks professional and feels comfortable, with plenty of adjustments to find the sweet spot. I spent the last two months trying it out to see how it compares to the best office chairs around.

Boulies OP300: Price & availability

(Image credit: Boulies // Future)

The Boulies OP300 is priced at $370 / £290 - although at the time of review, it’s on sale for $300 / £260 via the Boulies website in the US (click here) and the UK (click here). I’m also seeing it on Amazon.co.uk, under its original name, for the same cost.

I’d suggest the price is about right for what you get here, putting it roughly on par with the likes of the FlexiSpot OC3 and Branch Task Chair as a mid-range professional seating option.

Boulies OP300: Specs

Price (RRP)

$370 / £290

Seat height

19.5 - 23in / 49.5 - 58.5cm

Seat depth

18.1 - 20.3in / 46 - 51.5cm

Seat width

20.7in / 52.5cm

Backrest height

20 - 21.6in / 51 - 55cm

Recommended user height

5’5” - 6’3”

Max weight load

120kg / 265lbs

Material

Back: Mesh / Padded mesh
Seat:
Padded foam

Warranty

2 years

Boulies OP300: DesignImage 1 of 3

(Image credit: Boulies // Future)Image 2 of 3

(Image credit: Boulies // Future)Image 3 of 3

(Image credit: Boulies // Future)

There’s something distinctly functional about the design of the OP300 - and that’s no bad thing. It’s a traditional office chair design that will suit every office environment. One look and you can imagine it parked under a hundred desks in an open-plan office just as easily as in the home office.

The chair itself is available with either a mesh or padded mesh backrest (reviewed here) and a cushioned foam seat. Whichever you choose, this is an office chair Henry Ford would understand - like the Model T, you can choose any color you want, “so long as it is black.” And, again, I don’t consider that a drawback for the types of settings this chair is designed for. In fact, I’d argue that this uniformity is exactly what you’d want in the workplace.

The backrest width isn’t quite as wide as the EP200 (approximately 20in vs 19in), but wide enough - and more importantly, supportive enough - to comfortably fit most body types. As is the seat itself, for that matter, which I think it a nice touch. Around the back is a sturdy Y-shape support where backrest height adjustments can be made and that, again, to my eye, looks functional rather than unnecessarily over-designed.

In use, the casters rolled nicely across both wooden flooring and textured carpeting, and while sitting, it didn’t creak or feel unstable. While the plastic is thin in places (notably on that Y-support), it doesn’t feel cheap or prone to break under use.

Boulies OP300: Assembly

Firstly, it’s worth noting that when disassembled in the box, it’s heavy - I'd strongly recommend having two people carry this to its destination. How my delivery guy managed alone to get this from his van to my door is a testament to his strength and sheer tyranny of will. Once in position, it’s an easy one-person job.

I had no issues putting this chair together, taking me around fifteen to twenty minutes to complete the entire procedure. Instructions were clear to follow. Even if you haven’t assembled an office chair before, it all makes sense and is pretty intuitive anyway.

Boulies OP300: Comfort & adjustabilityImage 1 of 3

(Image credit: Boulies // Future)Image 2 of 3

(Image credit: Boulies // Future)Image 3 of 3

(Image credit: Boulies // Future)

I have no problems with the amount of comfort delivered here - like the EP200, the broad seat itself feels at once firm and supportive, even with its foamy cushioning.

Now, that may be a deal-breaker for some who prefer to sink into an office chair like it’s a well-loved couch, but I rather prefer this, and it kept me productive (and less sluggish) throughout my use. Although, saying that, the backrest, which reclines between 85 and 113 degrees, felt soft and breathable, and I found it all too easy to snuggle into it.

Having a lot of adjustability is, I feel, critical for any ergonomic chair worth its salt. So, I was pleased to find loads of options to tweak the seat and find that comfortable sweet spot.

First, you can modify the seat depth to make sure you're firmly ensconced with your back against the rest. The armrests move in three directions - up, down, back and forth, and swivel in and out to suit your seating style. And the headrest can be lightly angled and adjusted up or down. So, those are the basic boxes all ticked.

Beneath the seat to the right (as you’re sitting in it) are three levers to alter the chair’s height and angle, and to lock the recline into place. On the left is the lever for adjusting seat depth. These are all operated by flipping the levers up or down, which I really liked. There’s no need to fiddle here, no pushing and pulling and flipping up or swivelling around three times and performing an awkward rain-dance to get the chair into your chosen position. It’s just simple and effective.

In fact, the only area where the chair isn’t adjustable is the lumbar support. It’s fixed into position. I would’ve liked to see more flexibility here, but I can’t say it’s especially noticeable in use.

Given the backrest can be adjusted between five levels depending on your height, and is already contoured, at no point did I find fatigue setting in or that my lower back wasn’t adequately supported while sitting down during the working day.

Boulies OP300: Final verdictImage 1 of 3

(Image credit: Boulies // Future)Image 2 of 3

(Image credit: Boulies // Future)Image 3 of 3

(Image credit: Boulies // Future)

One of the reasons I like Boulies office chairs is that they’re generally good all-rounders - and the OP300 is no exception. I’ve used this seat for working, gaming, chilling out, and, when family were over, even eating dinner at my downstairs desk.

With its classic silhouette and all-black materials, the design isn’t especially flashy - quite the opposite, in fact. But to my mind, that makes it ideal, where it won’t dominate the office or home office landscape.

At all times, the OP300 felt comfortable and supportive, which are really the two criteria any good office chair should meet.

Should I buy the Boulies OP300 office chair?

Buy it if…

You want a comfortable, adjustable office chair: I used this chair for hours and hours at a time and felt none of the discomfort I get from cheaper office chairs. I especially like the simple adjustment mechanics.


You want a traditional office chair that won’t break the bank: For what’s on offer, the Boulies OP300 is well-priced. Neither too cheap, nor too expensive, but about right.

Don’t buy it if…

You need adjustable or dynamic lumbar support: While the backrest is height-adjustable, the lumbar support is fixed into place, which some may not like.


You need an office chair with serious style: I can’t emphasise enough how ‘professional’ the stylings of the OP300 are. In terms of design, it’s about as classic an office chair gets.

For more workspace essentials, we tested the best standing desks for the home and office.

Categories: Reviews

LogMeOnce Review: Pros & Cons, Features, Ratings, Pricing and more

TechRadar Reviews - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 10:29

LogMeOnce is, without a doubt, one of the best password managers we’ve seen. Most password managers offer the same core features, from autofill to secure password generation, but LogMeOnce goes beyond other apps thanks to its impressive range of advanced abilities.

Sign up to LogMeOnce and you’ll be able to use QR code logins, facial recognition, and cloud storage encryption, and security comes from military-standard encryption and security options along a wide range of multi-factor options.

With a free version and a range of plans at decent prices, LogMeOnce might seem too good to be true – so we’ve tested this software to deliver the real verdict.

LogMeOnce: Plans and pricing

(Image credit: LogMeOnce)

For individuals seeking a no-cost solution, the LogMeOnce Premium edition that’s available for free, stands out. Remarkably, it provides a generous array of features, such as unlimited password storage, autofill, secure password sharing, encrypted file storage, two-factor authentication (2FA) options, and a lot more, making it an excellent entry point for anyone aiming to fortify their digital security.

Stepping up, the LogMeOnce Professional subscription, which costs $2.5/month enriches the cybersecurity experience with advanced attributes like 1GB of encrypted storage, multi-factor authentication (MFA), emergency access, advanced activity report, and priority tech support. This level is ideally suited for users who demand more sophisticated security features without substantial investments.

Then there’s the $3.25/month Ultimate plan that bumps up the encrypted file storage to 10GB, and adds even more security features like remote logout, comprehensive reporting, a customizable dashboard, and more.

Furthermore, the LogMeOnce Family plan is specifically tailored to cater to the needs of households. It costs $4.99/month, and allows up to 6 accounts, offering a centralized platform for families to securely manage their passwords, digital assets, and personal information. This subscription not only amplifies online safety but also promotes shared responsibility among family members.

(Image credit: LogMeOnce)

For the business-oriented users, LogMeOnce presents three distinguished plans: Teams, Business, and Enterprise. The Teams plan is designed for a small group of people, and costs $4/user/month when billed annually. It provides all the essential features such as secure password management, comprehensive 2FA, user and group management, multiple login options, including passwordless login, priority technical support, and more.

If you need single sign-on (SSO) and active directory integration you can switch to the $7.99/user/month Business plan, which adds a lot more features such as automated user provisioning, role-based access control, delegated administration, identity theft protection, and more.

The top-tier is the Enterprise plan, which is designed for larger enterprises that require comprehensive and scalable cybersecurity solutions. In addition to all the features in the Business plan, it also offers MFA, IP address-based restrictions, bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policy, and more.

Each of these subscription plans by LogMeOnce is developed with the understanding that security needs vary widely among users and organizations. By offering a broad spectrum of features across different tiers, LogMeOnce accommodates a range of budgets and security requirements, making it a versatile choice for anyone looking to protect their digital life or their business's online assets.

LogMeOnce: Setup

(Image credit: LogMeOnce)

Whether you're an individual looking to protect your personal information or a business aiming to safeguard your data, setting up LogMeOnce can be a game-changer. In this blog post, we'll walk you through the setup process, ensuring you're up and running with LogMeOnce in no time.

Creating an Account: The first step is to create a LogMeOnce account. Visit the LogMeOnce website and choose the plan that fits your needs—ranging from a free version to professional and business plans.

Downloading the Software: After signing up, download the LogMeOnce software or app that corresponds to your device(s). LogMeOnce supports a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux.

Installing LogMeOnce: Run the downloaded file and follow the installation prompts. Installation typically involves agreeing to terms, deciding on installation locations, and waiting a few moments for the software to install.

Launch LogMeOnce: Once installed, open the LogMeOnce application. If it's your first time, you'll be guided through initial setup procedures.

Import Passwords (Optional): If you’ve been using another password manager or have a digital record of your passwords, LogMeOnce allows you to import these during setup. Supported formats include CSV files, and LogMeOnce can also directly import from many other popular password managers.

Creating Your Master Password: Your Master Password is critical—it's the key to unlock all your other credentials. Choose a strong, unique password that you will remember. LogMeOnce does not store this password, so its recovery relies on security questions or a printed backup.

Manual Entry: You can manually add login details for websites and apps by clicking on the “+Add” button inside your vault. Enter the website URL, your username, and password.

Browser Extension/Add-On: Install the LogMeOnce browser extension to streamline this process. When you log in to websites, LogMeOnce will prompt you to save these credentials to your vault.

LogMeOnce Secure Wallet: Besides passwords, LogMeOnce allows you to safely store other sensitive information, including credit card details, secure notes, and personal documents, further enhancing its utility.

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Set up 2FA for an additional layer of security. LogMeOnce offers multiple 2FA options, including SMS, email, and various authenticator apps.

PasswordLess Login: Explore LogMeOnce’s PasswordLess feature that enables you to log in without needing to enter your master password every time, using your mobile device or a photo of yourself.

Customization and Settings: Delve into LogMeOnce’s settings to customize your experience. This includes notifications, default behaviors, and security settings tailored to your preferences.

Syncing Across Devices: LogMeOnce seamlessly syncs your data across all linked devices. Install the mobile app on your smartphone and tablets to access your data on the go.

Staying Secure Everywhere: With LogMeOnce set up on your devices, you gain peace of mind knowing that your passwords are secure yet accessible to you anywhere and anytime.

By following these steps, you're well on your way to enjoying the myriad benefits of LogMeOnce, from heightened security and convenience to advanced features that cater to power users and businesses alike. Embrace this powerful tool and experience a more secure and streamlined digital life.

LogMeOnce: Interface and performance

It’s a well-designed bit of software. The main dashboard offers quick access to your passwords, secure notes and wallet, secure file storage, and dark web monitoring. You’ll also find quick links for your security evaluation and two-factor authentication settings.

The right-hand side has your Daily Journal, which summarizes your current password situation – a smooth feature that allows you to instantly see which areas need attention. There’s also the Identity Scorecard, which presents a quick security evaluation.

Head into different sections and at the bottom of the screen you’ll get a dock that opens more configuration options. Anyone who’s used a PC or Mac will be familiar with the setup – it works like a taskbar.

On top of this, the browser extension is very impressive. It includes quick links to all your saved websites, and logging in is as simple as clicking on the icon for the site you want to access. The mobile apps are equally powerful, and they performed very well on every device we tested them on.

One thing worth noting is that, although LogMeOnce is just as capable as other password managers, the user interface suggests otherwise. The mobile apps are particularly troubling, and have collected a handful of negative reviews accordingly. This, along with the limited browser extension support, put it one or two paces behind most other options.

LogMeOnce is also yet to announce any plans to adopt passkeys, which promise to revolutionize the way we log into websites. Promising the ultimate, passwordless security, passkeys have so far been slow to take off, and for all we know, LogMeOnce could just be waiting to see how it pans out, and whether it represents a worthwhile investment. Nevertheless, there’s no mention of passkeys anywhere on the company’s site.

LogMeOnce: Security

(Image credit: LogMeOnce)

Like all good password managers, LogMeOnce is backed by powerful security features. This includes AES 256-bit encryption compliant with NIST guidelines and communication to the LogMeOnce server via SSL/TSL encrypted tunnel communication. In fact, it goes one step further than most of its competitors, with a range of patented and copyrighted tools to further protect your sensitive information.

Along with encryption and master password access, LogMeOnce also comes with PasswordLess login, powerful two-factor authentication (2FA), and anti-theft tools. Custom security solutions are also available for business users with highly sensitive data.

There are loads of multi-factor authentication options available here. You’ve got biometrics, PIN codes, secure devices, and even the option to login with a selfie. Beyond that, you can also turn a USB drive into an authentication token.

Elsewhere, LogMeOnce has options to wipe devices in emergencies, remind you to reset passwords after specified amounts of time, secure browsing and document storage and secure backup modules. Users also benefit from secure sharing options and auto-login single sign-on settings.

LogMeOnce Business: Team and Admin Features

For any business, a good set of team and admin features in their password manager are essential to help ensure security, efficiency, and control, and LogMeOnce’s business plans don’t disappoint in that regard.

The platform provides a centralized interface that helps admins manage user access, and team credentials, enforce password policies, monitor activities, and a lot more.

Talking of password policies, you can use LogMeOnce to define and enforce granular password policies. This includes setting requirements for passwords, such as minimum length, character complexity, expiration frequency, and such. In addition to mandating periodic password changes, admins can also enforce password history rules to prevent users from reusing old passwords.

LogMeOnce also has adequate user and group management features. You can use the platform to organize users into groups, which can be formed based on a variety of factors, including formal structure like departments (IT, marketing, finance, etc.), or specific tasks, and projects.

The platform also allows for delegated administration, which means specific individuals can be assigned roles at the group level or user level. The platform supports half a dozen roles, which helps streamline the management of access to shared passwords and other sensitive information.

Team password sharing is a core business feature, and LogMeOnce doesn’t disappoint on this front as well. Besides passwords, groups can have notes, and credit card details as well. By default, the platform only lets users within a group use the passwords, but you can give them permission to view, and modify them as well. Similarly, you can enable your users to share passwords as well.

In the same vein, LogMeOnce also lets you allow your users to create their personal vaults. You can do this for individual users, all for all users belonging to a group. Unlike the business vault that you as an admin can create, modify, and delete, you can’t access a user’s personal vault. Conversely, while users can delete their personal vault, they can’t delete the business credentials, unless allowed by the admin.

You can use LogMeOnce’s Cloud Encrypter feature to encrypt your files and photos in your favorite cloud storage platform (e.g., Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive). Once you’ve added your account, the platform will automatically encrypt all your data on the service with your own key using AES 256 encryption.

Additionally, LogMeOnce also includes its own encrypted file storage service. It works pretty much like any other cloud storage service with the exception that it encrypts all its contents.

To use the service, your users will need to install the Secure Drive desktop app. After logging in to their account, they can then open their LogMeOnce Secure Drive, and copy contents to it as they would on any other folder.

The total amount of data that you can store is based on your account limits. The Teams plans bundles 1GB of encrypted storage space, while the Business, and the Enterprise plans offer 10GB. You can easily purchase additional storage space with prices starting from $9.96/year for 10GB, going all the way up to $199.92/year for 250GB.

(Image credit: LogMeOnce)

The platform backs up its set of features with comprehensive reporting and auditing capabilities. It gives admins access to all kinds of security and activity reports, which are useful for compliance purposes, as well as for identifying suspicious activity, and help gauge the overall password health within the organization.

LogMeOnce Business: Integrations and Compatibility

The Business and Enterprise plans of LogMeOnce support SAML 2.0, which allows integration with a wide range of SSO identity providers such as Okta, and Microsoft Entra ID.

This is increasingly becoming a must have feature for most organizations. Thanks to this integration, users in an organization can log in to multiple apps with a single set of credentials, which helps reduce password fatigue and the likelihood of using weak or reused passwords.

Additionally, LogMeOnce also integrates with on-premise active directory and LDAP, which helps automate the onboarding/offboarding of employees directly from their status in the directory services.

Thanks to this, instead of manually creating and managing user accounts in LogMeOnce, businesses can automatically provision new users, update existing user information, and de-provision users when they leave the company. This is another crucial feature for enterprise users as it ensures that access is immediately revoked upon an employee's departure, significantly enhancing security.

One of LogMeOnce’s stand out features is its support for a wide range of 2FA options. In addition to the standard use of email, SMS, and Google Authenticator option to send 2FA codes, the platform offers several other methods like voice calls, USB tokens, X.509 certificates, and its newest home-brewed mechanism called Selfie-2FA.

Thanks to the variety of options, businesses of all sizes can choose the authentication methods that best suit their security policies and user convenience needs.

LogMeOnce also offers an API, which businesses can use to integrate the platform with in-house apps, CRM systems, HR platforms, and such. The API can interact with LogMeOnce features, and can be used to perform functions like user provisioning, activation, deactivation, retrieve and change password, export logs, and more.

LogMeOnce Business: Ease of Use and Deployment

Like a majority of its peers, LogMeOnce Business is a web-based solution, which simplifies deployment as there's no server software to manage in-house. Once you’ve rolled it and signed up your users, they can easily install browser extensions and the desktop, and mobile apps to get going.

Again, just like its peers, LogMeOnce also uses a web-based admin console. The first time you log in, it’ll take you through the interface, and introduce the various sections, and buttons. There’s also an onboarding checklist that’ll help you complete the initial steps to setup the platform.

Unlike other platforms, LogMeOnce Business makes it the responsibility of the admins to import and manage passwords for business apps. The app itself has a curated list of over 4600 business apps that have been tested and vetted by LogMeOnce. You can search and add the apps (and their login credentials) manually. You can also import the credentials from popular web browsers, and password managers.

(Image credit: LogMeOnce)

Next up, you add users, and groups. Again, you can do this manually, or hook up LogMeOnce with your identity provider, and directory services. Adding, and customizing password policies is also fairly straightforward and intuitive.

(Image credit: LogMeOnce)

Once the platform is up and running, you can use the dashboard to get a quick snapshot of your organization's security posture. There’s also the security scorecard that tracks and analyzes various aspects of the managed passwords for the organization as a whole, as well as for individual users.

(Image credit: LogMeOnce)

(Image credit: LogMeOnce)LogMeOnce: Support

(Image credit: LogMeOnce)

LogMeOnce has a range of customer support and self-help options to draw on if you run into trouble. The main website features a chatbot that will guide you to articles or help you submit a support ticket. Tickets can also be logged directly from your management dashboard or the online portal. We feel that real-time support could be improved - there are no phone lines and emails aren’t always the quickest way to get to the bottom of something.

LogMeOnce: The competition

LogMeOnce is a genuinely good password manager, but there are a couple of powerful alternatives worth considering, especially if you can’t look the increasingly dated UI.

For example, LastPass has long been a leading password management program backed by very advanced features. It includes secure multi-factor authentication, has over 1,200 pre-integrated apps, and comes with a selection of advanced administration controls for IT managers and other tech professionals. Additionally, pricing is quite comparable.

If you’re really going down the business security route, Bitwarden offers self-hosting so that businesses can keep passwords stored in a secure and trusted location, even behind their own firewalls and proxies.

LogMeOnce: Final verdict

LogMeOnce is up there with the absolute best password management programs we’ve used in terms of functionality. It’s extremely affordable, comes with advanced tools designed for business users, and is backed by a range of powerful features.

On top of this, it’s easy to set up and is compatible with most common web browsers, devices, and operating systems. Also, security tools and customer support resources are comprehensive with an extensive library of articles and even videos.

That said, the product’s design could do with quite a significant overhaul, which is most notable on the apps. In theory, this shouldn’t take away from the abilities of the password manager, but failure to keep up-to-date with design could suggest diminishing developer resources. Furthermore, when we attempted to contact LogMeOnce’s press department, we were met with radio silence.

Ultimately, we’d recommend LogMeOnce for anyone who’s looking for a powerful, versatile password management solution backed by advanced features.

What to look for when choosing a password manager

A password manager not only helps in storing your passwords across various platforms securely but also plays a crucial role in generating strong, unique passwords that enhance your online security. However, with a myriad of options available, choosing the right password manager can feel overwhelming. Key features to look for include security, ease of use, compatibility, additional features, and pricing.

First and foremost, security is the cornerstone of any password manager. Ensure the application uses robust encryption methods, like AES-256 bit encryption, to keep your passwords safe from unauthorized access. Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an additional layer of security, making it significantly harder for intruders to gain access to your vault. Next, consider the ease of use. A user-friendly interface that integrates seamlessly across your devices is essential for a smooth experience. The ability to automatically fill in passwords and form data across websites and apps can amplify convenience and enhance your online interactions.

Compatibility is another pivotal aspect. The ideal password manager should support a wide range of devices and platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, ensuring you have access to your passwords regardless of the device you're using. Moreover, assess additional features such as secure password sharing, digital wallet functionality, and the ability to store other sensitive information like software licenses or confidential notes. These features can significantly enhance the utility of a password manager beyond just password storage.

Lastly, pricing is an important consideration, but it shouldn't be the sole deciding factor. Free versions can be a great starting point, but they often come with limitations that might not meet your needs. Evaluate the features offered in paid plans and consider whether they justify the cost, based on your personal or business requirements. Opt for plans that offer a balance between cost and functionality, ensuring you receive value for your investment.

In conclusion, selecting the right password manager involves considering a balance of security, user experience, platform compatibility, additional functionalities, and cost. By prioritizing these key factors, you can choose a password manager that not only secures your digital life but also simplifies it, allowing you to navigate the online world with confidence and ease.

We've also featured the best business password managers.

Categories: Reviews

New HBO Max series The Yogurt Shop Murders arrives next week, and will hit harder than any other TV show in 2025

TechRadar News - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 10:20

New HBO Max series The Yogurt Shop Murders arrives on the streaming service on August 3, 2025 to tell the harrowing story of a murder case in Austin, Texas, from 1991. Back then four teenage girls were shot at a shop called I Can't Believe It's Yogurt in the city, and despite it being more than 30 years on, the crimes are still unsolved (though two men did serve time for the crimes).

Interviews with family members and friends of the victims, lead police investigators, lawyers, experts and press will be aired over the new documentary’s four episodes, which will drop separately on a weekly basis on the platform throughout August. It’s the first time we’ll have seen the true crime case explored publicly in this much depth. Indeed, it marks a moment in time Austin residents still say they “can’t believe.”

For me, it’s an absolutely devastating watch even before having seen a single episode, from the victims themselves to the questions that still plague a community three decades later. However, I know it’s going to be a vital piece of television, which means it very possibly is on track to be the best crime series of the year.

New HBO Max series The Yogurt Shop Murders reopens the unsolved case over 30 years on

When you’re somebody who likes to binge true crime series pretty regularly (much like me), you can often get caught up in the fanfare of it all. When one episode ends, a tantilising cliffhanger is engineered for you to carry on watching the next, and nine times out of ten, it’s successful editing. This means you can often forget the human element in what you’re seeing, which can even lead to documentaries being created for the wrong reasons. All of this, however, is something The Yogurt Shop Murders immediately avoids.

The deaths of 13-year-old Amy Ayers, 17-year-old Eliza Thomas, 17-year-old Jennifer Harbison, and Jennifer's 15-year-old sister Sarah are obviously still such a shock to the residents of Austin – you’d have a heart of stone not to be overwhelmed by the rawness of their grief. At the time of the incident, Jennifer and Eliza were merely trying to get through a shift at work, with the younger two girls waiting for a lift home in the front of the shop after it closed. An hour before, a man was permitted to use the toilet in the back of the shop, with it alleged the rear door was jammed open in the process.

When first responders arrived at the site around an hour after closing, they found all four victims each with a gunshot wound to the head. The fact that there was so much organization and control in the process suggested to officials that the suspect was an adult, with Robert Springsteen, Michael Scott, Maurice Pierce, and Forrest Welborn all later suspected of being involved. Scott and Springsteen were released from prison in 2009 after their convictions, with Springsteen’s conviction originally overturned in 2006.

All of this is set to be covered in much more detail in The Yogurt Shop Murders, but no matter where you look in the overall story, there’s such an enormous sense of sorrow and bereavement. For many viewers, the new HBO Max show is going to be the first time they’ve extensively heard from the families and friends affected, or perhaps even heard of the case at all.

In its core, this is exactly what true crime shows should be created for – giving a voice to those who no longer have it while bringing a wider sense of awareness. It’s strange to say, but I’m looking forward to finding out more about the people remembered rather than the crime, even if I’ll be moved to tears in the process.

You might also like
Categories: Technology

Have all girls or all boys? Study suggests the odds aren't 50/50

NPR News Headlines - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 10:12

A study analyzed decades of births and found that larger families showed a distinct tendency toward all girls or all boys, rather than a mix.

(Image credit: Seth Wenig)

Categories: News

Every Free Pokemon Code and In-Game Item From Pokemon Presents July 2025

CNET News - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 10:09
This Pokemon Direct focused on updates for mobile games and live service titles, which inevitably means there are promo codes and other goodies you can redeem now.
Categories: Technology

460,000 Student Loan Borrowers Seeking Lower Payments Will Be Denied. What to Do If You're One of Them

CNET News - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 10:08
Most applicants were eligible for SAVE, which has been struck down. Here's how to apply for other repayment plans.
Categories: Technology

Hot, Tangy, Smoky and Sweet. We Tested 17 BBQ Sauces and These Are the Best

CNET News - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 10:06
Summer isn't complete until you find the perfect sauce to paint on your chicken and ribs.
Categories: Technology

Pokémon Presents reveals new puzzle game Pokémon Friends, a 2026 release window for Pokémon Champions, and shares new details on Pokémon Z-A

TechRadar News - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 09:58
  • The latest Pokémon Presents has offered new details about Pokémon Legends: Z-A and other upcoming Pokémon games
  • Pokémon Friends has been announced and is now available for Nintendo Switch, Switch 2, iOS, and Android devices
  • Pokémon Champions has been confirmed for a 2026 release

The Pokémon Company has unveiled a deluge of new information about several of its upcoming games, while also announcing a new title, Pokémon Friends.

Revealed during the July 22 Pokémon Presents, Pokémon Friends is now available on Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, iOS, and Android devices.

It's a puzzle-solving game featuring a series of randomly generated brainteasers that can be completed daily to earn Pokémon plushies, which can then be used to decorate your in-game rooms.

"Unwind with puzzles in Pokémon Friends! Solve sets of three randomly selected puzzles to help untangle your mind – then place the yarn you obtain into the Plush-O-Matic, a special machine that creates in-game Pokémon plush!" the game description reads.

"As you try to make them all, you can track your crafted plush in the catalogue. You can also mark your calendar with a stamp each day you play."

The game features over 1,200 puzzles that were each inspired by the world of Pokémon. Trainers can also complete friend quests, track daily progress with stamps in their calendar, and collect up to 150 different plushies.

Pokémon Friends is free on mobile, but the game is priced at $15.99 on Nintendo Switch and Switch 2. There's also a $53.99 version called the Pokémon Friends Combo Bundle that bundles together the base game and two Puzzle On! packs.

Alongside the new game announcement, new details were also shared about Pokémon Champions, which is now confirmed to be arriving in 2026 for Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, iOS, and Android devices.

In this game, players can recruit Pokémon to their team and battle other Trainers in three game modes: Casual Battles, Ranked Battles with players around the world, and Private Battles that can be played with family and friends.

A core feature of Champions is Trial Recruitment, which allows players to try out Pokémon and test strategies for a limited time.

There's also a Permanent Recruitment that lets players keep Pokémon by using Victory Points (VP), which are gained through various methods such as Ranked Battles. Players can also use VP to train Pokémon according to their own preferences, including altering their stats and Abilities.

(Image credit: The Pokémon Company)

Finally, we also learned fresh details about the next major mainline Pokémon game ahead of its official release later this year, Pokémon Legends: Z-A.

In an extended gameplay trailer, developer Game Freak offered an in-depth look at the game's explorable setting, Lumiose City. During the day, players can explore and find Pokémon to capture in wild zones, where they may encounter stronger, more powerful wild Pokémon dubbed alpha Pokémon.

Meanwhile, at night, players can compete in the Z-A Royale and climb the ranks by battling other Trainers, including Corbeau, the boss of Rust Syndicate, an organisation operating in Lumiose City.

New NPCs were also introduced, including Emma, a detective who asks the player to track down missing Pokémon, items, and take part in battles, and Mable, the acting director of Pokémon Research Lab, who is researching the habits and reasons behind the growing population of Pokémon.

When players arrive in Lumiose City, they'll be asked by Urbain or Taunie to join Team MZ, a crew dedicated to keeping Lumiose City a peaceful place. They can then go on to explore the city, change and customize their appearance and outfits, and earn rewards by completing tasks.

(Image credit: The Pokemon Company)

Mega Evolutions is another thing the latest trailer explored. Although we have previously been teased for this new system, Game Freak offered a new look at Mega Dragonite, a newly discovered Mega-Evolved Pokémon.

It will be up to the player and Team MZ to investigate Mega Evolutions, battle, and calm a variety of Rogue Mega-Evolved Pokémon, and in exchange, obtain Mega Stones as rewards.

Pokémon Legends: Z-A launches on October 16, 2025, for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2.

UK pre-orders and US pre-orders are now live, along with the newly announced Switch 2 bundles.

You might also like...
Categories: Technology

Pages

Subscribe to The Vortex aggregator