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Audio player loading… Cybersecurity researchers have spotted new versions of a known Point of Sale (PoS) malware (opens in new tab) that blocks advanced features to be able to steal credit card data. The team from Kaspersky observed the Prilex PoS malware versions 06.03.8070, 06.03.8072, and 06.03.8080, in the wild. These versions were released in November 2022, and prevent the terminal from accepting contactless credit card transactions. Contactless transactions, made possible due to near-field communication (NFC) chips found in both PoS terminals on one end, and credit/debit cards, smartphones and smart watches on the other, exploded in popularity during the Covid-19 pandemic. The technology allows consumers to purchase goods and services without actually inserting their credit cards, making it almost impossible for hackers to steal the data via PoS malware. Swiping away the data However to work around this issue, the threat actors deployed a new … [Read more...] about This PoS malware blocks contactless payments to steal credit card data

The best VPN routers to make use of your virtual private network connection A Virtual Private Network (VPN) (opens in new tab) is an essential service for maintaining your online privacy, and it’s really easy to use: install an app, tap a button, and you’re protected in seconds. But what if you’re looking to protect everything in your home? Use a VPN router, and there’s no need to install apps everywhere and learn how they work. Just connect your phones, tablets, laptops, smart TVs and anything Wi-Fi-enabled to the router, and it automatically shields all your online activities from attackers. We’ve uncovered the routers with the best VPN functionality, the most capable firmware, and how widely they’re supported by the top VPN providers. Of course you’re looking for a great router, too, so we also pay close attention to design, connectivity, speed, coverage, and bonus features such as parental controls. So, read on for our list of the best VPN routers, and at the end, … [Read more...] about Best VPN routers (February 2023): top routers for Virtual Private Networks

Installing a home surveillance system is easier than ever thanks to the proliferation of Wi-Fi cameras, but most of these cameras still require an AC power source. This may not be an issue for indoor applications where power outlets are usually plentiful, but for outdoor usage it puts limitations on where you can place your cameras. Enter the Arlo Security System VMS3230 ($349.99), a completely wire-free home surveillance camera system that uses a pair of palm-sized, battery-powered cameras and a base station to help you track motion in and around your home and view live and recorded video from your smartphone or PC. These neat-looking cameras are a cinch to install and can be placed just about anywhere, and they deliver sharp daytime and nighttime video. However, in order to conserve power they don't offer any audio capabilities, and you can't pan and zoom on the fly. Design and Features ($349.99 at Staples) (Opens in a new window) , which comes with two cameras, a base … [Read more...] about Arlo Smart Security System (VMS3230) Review

Perhaps the most highly visible home automation hub thanks to its placement in Lowe's stores around the country, the Iris Smart Hub ($59.99) is a reasonably priced device that controls numerous Iris-branded and third-party devices, including contact and motion sensors, thermostats, locks , and more. It contains circuitry to control Z-Wave and ZigBee smart home products , supports Amazon Alexa voice commands, and is relatively easy to install. However, it lacks the versatility of our Editors' Choice, the Wink Hub 2 , and requires a subscription to unlock its full potential. Design and Features is considerably smaller than the Wink Hub 2 (7.2 by 1.2 by 7.2 inches) and just a tad deeper than Samsung's SmartThings Hub ($69.99 at Home Depot) (Opens in a new window) (1.3 by 4.2 by 4.9 inches). It has a white finish, with an Ethernet port and two USB ports on the back, alongside a power jack and a reset button. Three LED indicators on the front glow solid green when … [Read more...] about Lowe’s Iris Smart Hub (Second Generation) Review

If you've chosen the Lowe's Iris Smart Hub as your smart home controller and want to begin adding components, the Iris By Lowes Automation Pack ($129) is a good place to start. It contains everything you need to add door/window sensors, motion detection, and smart plug automation to your hub , and it's a bit less expensive than if you were to buy these components separately. Each component offers very fast response times, but installation be tricky and a monthly subscription is required for the components to interact with other devices on your Iris network. Design and Features contains two contact sensors, a small motion sensor, a smart button, and a smart plug, all of which are ZigBee devices. To buy these components separately it'll cost you $135.95, so the pack does offer a small savings. Similar components (minus the smart button) will cost you $175 if you're using the Samsung SmartThings ($69.99 at Home Depot) (Opens in a new window) home automation platform. … [Read more...] about Lowe’s Iris Home Automation Pack Review