We have a lot of information to share this month, including:
a new browser recommendation
attacks on home and office internet routers
our stock offering
On Browsers
I've always used multiple browsers - Safari, Chrome, and Explorer. Sometimes, one would work better than the other, depending on my online activities at the time.
In early 2019 I added Mozilla Firefox and made it the default browser for all my devices. Mozilla's nonprofit status and the privacy features in Firefox, coupled with good performance and user experience, were essential to me.
I was disappointed in Mozilla earlier this year when they censored some content and users from Firefox. Since then, I've been trying alternatives to find a suitable replacement - one that worked for me, not Big Tech.
Then, last month, after so many years of blatant abuse and learning the extent of Google's wrongdoing, I expelled Chrome from my quiver of browsers; Goodbye Google.
I didn't stop there. I completely removed Google's software from my personal and business computers and phones.
I deleted Chrome and Google Maps from all devices.
We don't use Gmail, but for those that do, we recommend firing it too.
✓ This month, we have a new browser recommendation.
Hello Brave
After considerable use, experimentation, and analysis, I recommend a wholesale switch to the Brave browser.
Brave is a free and open-source web browser developed by Brave Software and built for privacy. It's unique from other browsers in that it automatically blocks online advertisements and website trackers by default.
For anyone seeking optimal internet privacy and security coupled with outstanding performance and user experience, say hello to Brave.
The engineering behind Brave is impressive. It is fast, intuitive, totally geared to serve and protect the user, and it tees everything up, so it's easy to be in control of the browser and your personal information.
I found the migration to Brave to be simple, intuitive, and very convenient. It does everything for you, like add your extensions (F-Secure, LastPass) and your bookmarks. It has a password manager, but I disabled it because I rely on LastPass for everything related to passwords.
I recommend creating an account with Brave and signing in on each of your devices.
For me, it's Brave as my default browser, with Safari and Firefox on deck if I need them. Be sure to view the Brave video in the first news tile below.
✓ For best-in-class privacy and security, use Brave as the default browser on all your devices. https://brave.com
Router Hacks
Notably, in August, we saw a spike in home internet router attacks. We also noticed the media is finally picking it up and reporting on the trend.
You can find the links to these and other related articles in the news tiles below.
Our Managed Network Security system is designed with comprehensive and autonomous protection for home, office, and business Wi-Fi networks.
Test the security of the network you are on now, here: ShieldTest.
By the way, the T-Mobile breach started with an unprotected router:
Total Digital Security is raising investment funds with a private placement of common stock.
✓ We're proud to include clients as our investors. If you are an accredited investor and would like more information, please contact me at brad@totaldigitalsecurity.com
Quotable
“I would say that the risk that we keep our eyes on the most now is cyber risk.”
"I'm more worried about the risk of a large-scale cyberattack than another financial crisis like that of 2008."
August 2021 - Jerome Powell, US Federal Reserve Chairman, when summarizing the current risk landscape for the economy.
Total Digital Security's private placement is only available to Accredited Investors as defined in Rule 501(a) of Regulation D under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. Most individuals are not Accredited Investors. An individual must earn more than $200,000 a year (or $300,000 per year with a spouse or spousal equivalent), have a net worth over $1 million either alone or together with a spouse or spousal equivalent, excluding their primary residence, or hold in good standing their Series 7, Series 65, or Series 82 professional certifications. Entities must have $5 million in liquid assets or all beneficial owners must be Accredited Investors.
Video - the Browser Reimagined, by Brave
To view the Brave video, click Read More below and scroll to the FAQs section to find :
"What's the best browser for privacy and security?"
Be Brave
Millions of home routers vulnerable to hacks
"Given that most people may not even be aware of the security risk and won’t be upgrading their device anytime soon, this attack tactic can be very successful, cheap and easy to carry out."
Juniper Networks
August 9th - TechRadar Pro
Wi-Fi Malware is hacking home routers
"A security alert was recently posted, saying that over 36 models of Wi-Fi home routers are under attack by botnet malware."
August 11th - ittechpost.com
This Mac malware breaks through Apple's defenses
"A notorious form of Mac malware called AdLoad, first spotted in 2017, has returned and is blitzing through macOS' built-in defenses, reports security firm Sentinel One."
August 13th - SentinelOne
If you are a T-Mobile customer
"T-Mobile warned Monday that a data breach has exposed the names, date of birth, Social Security number, and driver's license information of more than 54 million current, former or prospective customers.
Here's what to do."
August 19th - Total Digital Security
Ransomware on a Rampage; a New Wake-Up Call
"The sobering reality is that ransomware is on a rampage. Ransomware will continue to be a destructive threat because there are so many available soft targets."
August 21st - Forbes
Florida AG Warns About New Malware Targeting Mobile Phone Users
"Accidentally downloading this malware gives scammers the ability to steal sensitive information—including mobile payment app logins, banking credentials, and remote control of a target’s phone."
August 27th - AG Asley Moody
Beware this new tactic targeting your home WiFi router
"Hackers have created a new tactic involving home routers in phishing attacks. This is incredibly worrying to cybersecurity experts, as 64% of users have Wi-Fi routers in their household."
August 29th - BusinessTech
New phishing campaign is after your credentials, Microsoft warns
"Microsoft is warning its users and advising them to take immediate action in order to stay protected."
August 30th - Windows Report
For previous CyberAdvisor Letters:
To view Blog posts:
Total Digital Security, 7777 Glades Rd, Suite 100, Boca Raton, Florida 33434, United States, 877-643-6391