Broadband Guides: Privacy & Security

The unstoppable rise of AI companions

AI companions are artificial chatbots designed to flatter and entertain us – but they come at a cost, in many ways

How AI could help criminals to steal personal data

The latest AI models could be used to steal personal data on a global scale, but there are smaller risks as well

How to identify spam messages which aren’t really from your ISP

It’s easy to be deceived by spam messages which claim to be from your ISP, but there are often telltale giveaways

What are bait-and-switch scams?

Will 6G wireless internet improve our security?

Mobile data transfers can be surprisingly insecure, but 6G wireless internet coverage may resolve some of these issues

VPN usage is booming – here’s how to use them safely

There’s been rapid growth in VPN usage since the Online Safety Act was introduced, but can these tools be trusted?

These common mistakes are leaving your broadband router open to attack

Broadband router security isn’t something many people concern themselves with, yet it’s a vital aspect of online safety.

Why you need to look after your personally identifiable information

Personally identifiable information is the default currency in most cybercrime and online fraud. Here’s what you need to know

Four Dark Web search engines you can trust

To safely plumb the depths of the internet, you’ll need a Dark Web search engine you can trust

What are IP addresses, and how do they identify us?

Could your passwords be cracked in three minutes?

Cracked passwords represent an existential threat to your online safety. Here’s how to avoid the pitfalls.

What is AI slop, and how can I identify it?

You’ve probably heard the phrase ‘AI slop’ – but what does it mean, and how can you avoid it?

Should we ban screen time for children?

Proposals to restrict or ban screen time for children are highly contentious. We consider the pros and cons

Protecting your data when selling an old computer

There’s a surprisingly long list of things do before selling an old computer to keep your data safe

The risks of consuming pirated content

It may be tempting to consume pirated content, but you can’t ignore the legal and safety risks.

How many types of cyber threats are there?

What are ‘social engineering’ scams?

Social engineering is on the rise – we explain how to avoid becoming its next victim

How big a threat is spyware?

The spyware threat is real – but there are plenty of things you can do to reduce your risk of becoming a victim

How to choose a web browser that works for you

Knowing how to choose a web browser for your specific needs can simplify and streamline your online experiences

What are Trojans?

What are Trojans? Only the most insidious – and potentially damaging – form of malware

How social media algorithms can literally change your mind

Social media algorithms may be designed to reinforce existing beliefs, but they’re also rewiring our brains without us realising

How targeted is targeted advertising?

Targeted advertising is the tip of an iceberg of personal data endlessly being resold across the internet

What is doxing, and why is it dangerous?

If you’ve ever wondered what is doxing, we explain the origins and dangers of this growing online phenomenon.

The differences between ransomware, spyware and malware

There’s a common assumption that they’re all the same, yet the differences between ransomware, spyware and malware are significant.

Should I jailbreak my smartphone?

Understanding the pros and cons of jailbroken smartphones helps you to decide whether to risk your device’s safety for extra functionality

What is zero-day malware?

Zero-day malware is too new to be caught by most antivirus packages. We explain how to stay safe

What should I do if my online passwords are compromised?

We explain how to get your security back on track when your online passwords are compromised.

How to live without social media accounts

Life can be less stressful once you learn how to live without social media accounts and re-embrace traditional technologies

What are employee monitoring tools, and how do they work?

Employee monitoring tools are vital for home workers, but they come at the cost of personal privacy

Why too much screen time can be harmful

We investigate why too much screen time can be harmful for us – and especially for our children.

The best web browsers for privacy 2024

The best web browsers for privacy offer greater confidentiality than ever before – but which is best for your needs?

What are cookies, and can I avoid them?

The question “What are cookies” has different answers for consumers, businesses and advertisers

Top security tips for safe online banking

As digital banking continues to increase, safe online banking tips are vital to keep you – and your money – safe.

What are torrents?

The question ‘what are torrents’ can be answered quite simply, considering how complex these file sharing protocols are.

The top 6 best messaging apps for 2024

The best messaging apps for 2024 will keep business and personal communications flowing – providing other people are willing to use them

What are biometrics, and how do they keep us safe?

We examine the world of biometrics, including an exploration of what are biometrics used for

Online advertising’s evolution over the last 30 years

It’s been thirty years since online advertising first crept into our lives, and this industry has evolved at a phenomenal rate

Dos and don’ts when using a webcam

Using a webcam safely involves a little advanced planning – and plenty of common sense.

How to make sure your old tech doesn’t reveal personal data

Deleting personal data from old devices is crucial to protecting yourself against identity theft, data loss – and strange phone calls…

How to make the most of bookmarks and favourites

Bookmarks and favourites are one of the internet’s least treasured resources, despite their hidden value

What is peer-to-peer file sharing, and is it legal?

Peer-to-peer file sharing is a popular – if controversial – method of distributing data online

Ten tips for selling your old computer

Selling a secondhand computer is no harder than selling a smartphone, yet it’s something many people are reluctant to do

Staying safe: how to tackle online extortion

Recognising and understanding online extortion could prove invaluable if you find yourself being threatened or coerced.

What is HTTPS, and why does it matter?

What is HTTPS? Only the most secure form of web content distribution, and one which every website should adhere to nowadays

How much information about you is on the internet?

The vast quantities of personal data online represent a goldmine for companies, but a minefield for consumers

Tips for avoiding clickbait

Avoiding clickbait will give you a far more enjoyable online experience, away from low-grade content and tracking websites

Ten tips to improve your cybersecurity at home

Methods for improving domestic cybersecurity include password management, router reboots and deleting unsolicited emails.

How to choose an antivirus package

When it’s time to choose an antivirus package, there’s a lot to consider

What is bloatware, and how can I tackle it?

Bloatware is the scourge of modern computers, smartphones and tablets. Let's tackle it head-on!

What is airbrushing?

We explain what is airbrushing used for, how it’s achieved and why it’s controversial