App scanner tells you if a mobile app is safe—before you install it
You know that Android app you're about to download? It could be a security risk.
Rick Broida | 18 Oct | Read more
You know that Android app you're about to download? It could be a security risk.
Rick Broida | 18 Oct | Read more
In recent years, a handful of developers have attempted to add note-taking capabilities to Gmail, the idea being to let you attach custom, personalized information to any given message.
Rick Broida | 13 Aug | Read more
It's that time again--<a href="http://www.pcworld.com/article/238644/reader_feedback_taskbar_tip_gmail_management_antivirus_help.html">reader Q&A</a> time, that is. This week I answer questions on getting to Gmail messages when you don't have Internet access and how much security software is too much.
Rick Broida | 08 Sep | Read more
Reader Steve uses a program called Vipre Premium to keep his PC secure. The suite offers anti-virus, anti-malware, anti-spyware, a firewall, e-mail protection--basically, the works.But Steve also runs Malwarebytes Anti-Malware. And Microsoft Security Essentials (though with real-time protection turned off). Steve's question: should he turn on MSE's real-time protection and "run it concurrently with Vipre?"Short answer: no. Definitely not. In fact, I'd say Steve is running too much security software as it is. And that's a common mistake.For starters, the Vipre suite is more than sufficient. I can see keeping Malwarebytes Anti-Malware on hand just in case some infection sneaks through, but if you're using the Pro version--which, unlike its freebie sibling, offers real-time scanning--then it's competing with Vipre. In fact, when you overlap security products like that, they can seriously impact system performance and even falsely recognize each other as being a threat.My advice: keep your security tools to a bare minimum. In fact, if you're running Windows 7 (which Steve is), you're already adequately equipped to handle the majority of security threats. Windows 7 offers a solid firewall, and its built-in Windows Defender should block most spyware and pop-ups.Meanwhile, Internet Explorer 9 provides robust protection against phishing, malware, and other browser-related threats. (In fact, some tests have shown it to be <a href="http://www.pcworld.com/article/238104/study_internet_explorer_9_defends_best_against_malware_links.html">the safest browser</a>, period.) Cap that off with Microsoft Security Essentials and <a href="http://www.pcworld.com/downloads/file/fid,73058-order,4/description.html">browser plug-in Web of Trust</a>, and you've got yourself a nearly bulletproof PC. (I speak from experience: that's my exact configuration, and I haven't had an infection of any kind, well, ever.)Bottom line: don't overdo the security software. Too much is not a good thing.Contributing Editor<a href="http://www.broida.com/"> Rick Broida</a> writes about business and consumer technology. Ask for help with your PC hassles at hasslefree@pcworld.com, or try the treasure trove of helpful folks in the<a href="http://forums.pcworld.com/"> PC World Community Forums</a>.
Rick Broida | 07 Sep | Read more
Before the Internet, passwords played only a tiny role in everyday life. Think about it: Except for your ATM PIN, what important codes did you need to remember? Probably none. But now, you can’t click a link without hitting another site that requires a password. Doesn’t matter if it’s a big-name destination like Google Docs or Mint.com, or a smaller, more private site such as your local library or company intranet. You want in? Password, please.
Rick Broida | 03 Aug | Read more
Reader Ash wants to know if there's a way to password-protect individual folders in Windows 7:
Rick Broida | 23 Jun | Read more
It's been a while since I've covered tips for my favorite browser, Mozilla Firefox tips (read "Quick Tips for Speeding Up Mozilla Firefox" for my last installment). So this week I thought I'd toss you a couple tips for scrolling through long Web pages in Firefox. But first -- a public service announcement.
Rick Broida | 09 Mar | Read more
Facebook status updates don't have to be an all-or-nothing proposition. You can decide who gets to see a particular update -- or, if you prefer, who doesn't.
Rick Broida | 09 Feb | Read more
Want to clean and optimize your PC? You've probably heard of CCleaner, arguably the world's most popular tool for doing the job. Developer Piriform just released CCleaner 3.0. The big news in this update? A native 64-bit version for use with like editions of Windows.
Rick Broida | 03 Nov | Read more