Feed aggregator

Hari Ravichadran, founder and CEO of the online safety product Aura, recently got a front-row seat to a sophisticated scam designed to turn him into a victim of fraud.

He and his team are regularly targeted by scammers, but this scheme was so well-conducted that it gave the normally skeptical Ravichadran pause.

The play went like this: A scammer seemingly stole someone's identity and used it to share a heart-wrenching story. The pretend victim claimed that the bank mistakenly wired Ravichadran her alleged family's down payment for their new home. They urgently wanted Ravichadran to wire back the money he supposedly received.

The would-be thief contacted not just Ravichadran, but also multiple company executives. The scammer communicated through what looked like a legitimate email address and social media profiles, and had accurate information for Ravichadran. They even invited him and his legal counsel to meet on Zoom with a bank employee in order to sort things out.

SEE ALSO: 5 holiday scams that could wreck your season

Ravichadran knew better than to reflexively trust what he'd been told. But, like most people, he also worried what might happen to the woman if she was telling the truth.

Of course, things quickly fell apart when his lawyer joined a Zoom call with the purported bank employee. The individual appeared on camera for a split second and the conversation eventually became nonsensical. The lawyer suspected they were speaking to an AI-powered deepfake.

Ravichadran says the attempt demonstrates just how savvy scammers have become. Unlike past generic efforts, schemes are now often very personal. That's because scammers may have access to information from data breaches as well as details available on social media or other public platforms, including where you work and the identity of your friends.

Scammers are also leveraging technology to reach people faster and more efficiently. They can now use auto-dialling software connected to an AI chatbot, complete with local or regional accent, to call your phone number.

In general, Ravichadran advises consumers to assume they're not being told the truth when assessing inquiries like the one he received.

"I think you go to it from a place of distrust," Ravichadran says. "If you go from a place of, 'Hey, this is probably true, let me see how to make it work,' you're going to get taken."

Ravichadran says technological advancements will be one of the defining features of how people are scammed in 2025. But bad actors have focused on certain types of fraud that are likely to become even more prevalent next year.

Here's what you need to know:

Cryptocurrency scams

If there's a way to steal people's money through a cryptocurrency scheme, thieves will find it. That's increasingly true as crypto becomes more mainstream and hits milestones, like Bitcoin passing the $100,000 mark, Nick Biasini, head of outreach for Cisco Talos Intelligence Group, says.

One well-established con is so-called "pig butchering," in which a scammer grooms someone digitally over a period of time and then asks them for crypto. (Interpol recently recommended abandoning that term and instead adopting the phrase "romance baiting," which carries less stigma.)

The scammers' alleged purposes vary from helping the victim invest in crypto to helping the scammer pay for fictitious costs, like medical care. These bad actors are typically looking to score a windfall over time or all at once; average losses are hundreds of thousands of dollars, according to the Internal Revenue Service.

Less well-known crypto scams revolve around confusion about the currency, says Biasini.

Newcomers to buying or investing in crypto might fall for a scam that starts on social media, when that individual asks for help learning more. Scammers are waiting for posts just like these and will reply with friendly offers that end in financial losses.

Bad actors also take advantage of people who've lost their money by posing as experts who can help them get it back. Their end game, though, is just the same: make off with more of the victim's cash.

Celebrity-backed crypto can be a dangerous investment, too. The recent Hawk Tuah memecoin pump-and-dump scheme demonstrated what happens when a famous person encourages their followers to purchase their memecoin. Insiders close to the celebrity, who bought the memecoin privately for less, sell it as soon as its price spikes, ultimately crashing the value.

Since crypto is rife with scam risk, Biasini recommends exploring the currency with the help of a certified professional who can help you safely invest in it. In general, it's best to stick with well-known exchanges, and avoid social media discussions about crypto in which you share any personal information or data.

Multifactor authentication scams

Multifactor authentication is a security measure designed to provide consumers with greater protection for their personal accounts. But Cisco Talos' Security Intelligence & Research team has noted more attempts to fraudulently bypass that security step.

Some criminals are attempting to do that by stealing cookies, or data sent by a website to your computer, that contain their login credentials and allow them to access a victim's email, according to a recent warning from the FBI Atlanta division.

Once the thieves are able to view the email account, they can try logging into that victim's various other online services, including bank and shopping accounts. When the services send the multifactor authentication code via email, the criminal will be able to use it.

The FBI Atlanta division encourages people to regularly clear their Internet browser cookies, consider the risks of checking "remember me" when logging into a website, and only visiting sites with a secure connection in order to prevent your data from being intercepted.

Criminals use other methods, including phishing, to relay mutlifactor authentication codes to themselves in order to access victims' financial and consumer accounts. Beware of digital messages and phone calls that ask you to provide critical login information that you would otherwise enter yourself.

Business phishing scams

Scams that target workplaces are on the rise, according to both Ravichadran and Biasini. Typically these efforts focus on higher-level employees, like the CEO or CFO. Much like Ravichadran experienced, the fraudulent requests involve urgently wiring money into the bad actor's account.

Biasini says that the emergence of large language models (LLMs), like the kind that power OpenAI's ChatGPT, have made it easier for scammers to create prompts that sound very convincing.

Ravichadran notes that these scams often leverage multiple channels of communication, like email and social media messaging. They may use stolen accounts, so that the bad actor appears to be legitimate. They've also typically collected enough information about their target that they're able to demonstrate some level of familiarity — and credibility.

These tactics are becoming widespread, which means employees have to be on guard for suspicious messages, and quickly report them to their information security teams.

AI-powered scams

LLMs and deepfake technology have given scammers frighteningly powerful tools.

With access to software that can essentially write scam scripts in seconds or minutes, and then can conduct a conversation as a chatbot with a victim in real-time, bad actors can rapidly scale their schemes to reach far more people than they could in the past.

Ravichadran says scammers can even program a chatbot to use a regional accent, a detail that could likely persuade a potential victim into handing over their personal data.

SEE ALSO: OpenAI's Sora is officially here

Bad actors can also use deepfake technology to create a vocal or visual clone of someone. If you think you're speaking to someone you know, or could look up online, it might be very difficult to remain skeptical of a scammer's story or their requests.

As this technology becomes more widely available, and easier to use, it'll make scams that much easier to execute.

How to protect yourself from scams

In addition to routinely approaching interactions involving your money and data with skepticism, Ravichadran recommends protecting yourself with basic steps, like changing your password if you know it's been breached, and taking advantage of a password manager in order to use complex phrases that you don't need to remember.

Ravichadran also suggests more sophisticated strategies, including using services that monitor your financial accounts and credit for signs of fraud and identity theft.

He adds that anyone can become a scam victim, despite the perception that bad actors typically target certain people, like seniors. Ravichadran has spoken to people with advanced degrees who are shocked that they were duped by a scammer.

Though many victims feel embarrassed and ashamed, he encourages people to share their experiences with others, and certainly report them to authorities so that investigators can pursue the criminals.

The FBI recommends reporting scams to law enforcement and to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center. If you think you've been scammed by a registered business, you can also report suspected fraud to your state attorney general, the state in which the company is listed, and to the Federal Trade Commission.

TL;DR: Get 2TB of lifetime cloud storage with FileJump for $79.97 and access your files anytime, anywhere.

Managing your growing collection of files — including 50,000 pictures of your dog sleeping — doesn’t have to be a headache. FileJump’s 2TB lifetime cloud storage for $79.97 offers an easy, secure way to keep everything from work projects to personal photos in one place without having to part ways with your stuff. With a simple interface and plenty of space, it’s built to make your digital life easier.

This isn’t just about storing files — it’s about keeping them accessible whenever you need them. FileJump works across devices, so whether you’re at your desk or on the go, your important documents, videos, and other files are always within reach. The platform supports all kinds of file types, giving you the flexibility to store whatever you need without limitations.

Security is a priority with FileJump. Advanced encryption protects your data, keeping it safe from prying eyes. It’s the peace of mind you need when dealing with sensitive work files or cherished memories. Plus, no more relying on bulky external drives or worrying about hard drive failures — everything lives securely in the cloud.

No subscriptions, no recurring fees — just a reliable, long-term solution to your storage needs. It’s perfect for anyone looking to free up device space and organize their digital life without the usual hassle.

Whether you’re a professional juggling large projects or someone who wants to take tons of photos and videos, this lifetime subscription to FileJump 2TB Cloud Storage on sale for $79.97 makes cloud storage simple, secure, and stress-free.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: FileJump FileJump 2TB Cloud Storage: Lifetime Subscription $79.97
$467.00 Save $387.03 Get Deal

TL;DR: Own Microsoft Visio Professional 2024 for Windows for $79.97 and transform how you visualize and present ideas.

Explaining complicated ideas can feel impossible when words just don’t cut it. That’s where Microsoft Visio Professional 2024 steps in. Whether you’re mapping workflows, designing IT systems, or just trying to make sense of a project, Visio helps you turn chaos into clean, professional visuals.

With Visio, creating diagrams is as easy as dragging and dropping. You’ll find a library full of templates and shapes, so whether you’re building a flowchart or sketching out a floor plan, the tools are already there. Need to team up? Real-time collaboration lets everyone pitch in without stepping on each other’s toes.

Visio isn’t just for pretty pictures, though. Pull in data from Excel or other Microsoft 365 apps, and watch your diagrams update automatically as the data changes. It’s like having a visual assistant keeping everything current. And if you’re working with AutoCAD files? Visio’s got you covered — just import, edit, and go.

Security fans will appreciate this: Visio comes with built-in Microsoft Information Rights Management (IRM). That means your diagrams are protected with encryption and access controls, so only the right people see the sensitive stuff.

And here’s the kicker: it’s a one-time purchase. No monthly fees, no subscriptions. Just lifetime access to a tool that helps you work smarter and present your ideas like a pro.

If you’ve got a big project coming up — or you’re just tired of messy diagrams — this lifetime license to Microsoft Visio Professional 2024 for $79.97 might just be your new favorite sidekick.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Retail King Microsoft Visio Professional 2024: Lifetime License for Windows $79.97
$579.99 Save $500.02 Get Deal

TL;DR: Get 1TB of Koofr lifetime cloud storage for $119.97 and simplify your file management forever.

Opens in a new window Credit: Koofr Koofr Cloud Storage: Lifetime Subscription (1TB) $109.97
$810.00 Save $700.03 Get Deal

Get 1TB of Koofr lifetime cloud storage for just $119.97 (reg. $810).

What you get with your storage plan:

• A full terabyte of storage for your photos, videos, documents, and more

• Works seamlessly across Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android devices

• Keeps your files backed up and synced automatically

• Simple sharing options for files and folders with coworkers or friends

• Strong encryption to protect sensitive files from prying eyes

• Easily access and manage files through a clean, browser-based interface

• No subscriptions — just one payment for lifetime access

Organize and safeguard your digital world with Koofr’s 1TB lifetime cloud storage plan, available now for $119.97.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Simplify charging with the GoCable 8-in-1 EDC Charger for $24.99 (reg. $44) — designed for versatility and portability.

Opens in a new window Credit: Mutant Design Lab GoCable: The Ultimate 8-in-1 EDC Charger $24.99
$44.99 Save $20.00 Get Deal

Simplify charging with the GoCable 8-in-1 EDC Charger on sale for just $24.99 (reg. $44).

What you get with your versatile charger:

• Designed with USB-A, USB-C, Lightning, and Micro USB connectors to handle multiple devices without switching cables

• Compact enough to fit in your pocket or attach to your keychain for easy access

• Includes adapters that are magnetically secured in place, so you won’t lose them on the go

• Includes bonus tools like a bottle opener, a safe-proofed hidden cutter for packages, and a carabiner clip for easy carrying

• Built for durability with high-quality materials, making it a reliable option for daily use

• Supports 100W fast charging to power up your devices quickly, whether it’s a phone, tablet, or accessory

• Doubles as a data transfer cable, letting you sync files between devices

• A cost-effective option for managing all your charging needs

Say goodbye to cable clutter with the GoCable 8-in-1 EDC Charger — now available for $24.99 for a limited time.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

SAVE $1,100: As of Dec. 18, Sony 75-inch BRAVIA XR X93L 4K Mini LED Smart TV is on sale for $1,398 at Walmart. That’s $1,100 off its usual price of $2,498.

Opens in a new window Credit: Sony Sony BRAVIA XR X93L $1,398.00 at Walmart
$2,498.00 Save $1,100.00 Get Deal

Ready to upgrade your home theater game? The Sony 75-inch BRAVIA XR X93L 4K Mini LED Smart TV is here to make all your entertainment dreams come true for a whopping $1,100 less than usual. On Dec. 18, it’s available at Walmart for $1,398, down from its original price of $2,498.

BRAVIA XR smashes gaming, streaming, and anything cinema. At the heart of the X93L is Sony’s Cognitive Processor XR™, which recreates images with lifelike detail, vibrant color, and pitch-perfect contrast. Paired with the Mini LED technology and XR Backlight Master™ Drive, this display takes brightness and color precision to jaw-dropping levels. Expect stunning HDR visuals, inky blacks, and billions of hues that’ll have you saying, “Wow,” every time you turn it on.

SEE ALSO: How 'The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim' adapts two pages of Tolkien lore into a whole movie

But the BRAVIA XR isn’t just about pretty visuals — it’s also a smart powerhouse. With Google TV built in, all your favorite streaming apps are just a voice command away (thanks, Google Assistant). Plus, features like Apple AirPlay and BRAVIA CORE (complete with complimentary 4K UHD movies) mean you’ll never run out of content to binge.

For gamers, this TV is your new MVP. It’s loaded with HDMI 2.1 features like 4K at 120Hz, VRR, and ALLM for buttery-smooth gameplay. There’s even a Game Menu to tweak settings on the fly, and it’s tailor-made for the PlayStation 5 with Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Genre Picture Mode for optimal gaming and streaming experiences.

Let’s not forget sound. The Acoustic Multi-Audio system, paired with Dolby Atmos, ensures sound that’s just as immersive as the picture. If you have a Sony soundbar, the Acoustic Center Sync feature will harmonize everything for clearer dialogue and richer soundscapes.

This TV is also designed for real-life use. The wide viewing angles make every seat the best, while the anti-reflective screen keeps glares at bay. With XR 4K Upscaling, your older HD content will look better. And if you’re feeling eco-conscious, the Eco Dashboard makes tweaking energy efficiency settings a breeze.

At $1,398, this is an absolute steal for a premium Sony TV that excels at entertainment and gaming. Don’t wait too long — deals like this disappear faster than you can say “binge night.”

SAVE $300: As of Dec. 18, the Acer Swift 16 AI-powered laptop is available for $899.99 at Best Buy. That’s $300 off its regular price of $1,199.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Acer Acer Swift 16 $899.99 at Best Buy
$1,199.99 Save $300.00 Get Deal

AI-powered productivity has a new name: the Acer Swift 16 AI laptop. And as of Dec. 18, you can snag this sleek powerhouse for just $899.99 at Best Buy, saving you a cool $300. At this price, it’s hard to resist the temptation of bringing some cutting-edge tech into your life.

Let’s talk about what makes this machine a standout. For starters, the Swift 16 boasts a 3K OLED touch display that’s so vivid it might make you forget what reality looks like. With 100% DCI-P3 color gamut support, 340 nits of brightness, and a lightning-fast 0.2ms response time, this screen brings everything to life. Whether you’re streaming movies, designing graphics, or just scrolling through spreadsheets, everything will look chef’s kiss.

SEE ALSO: How 'The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim' adapts two pages of Tolkien lore into a whole movie

Under the hood, you’ve got the Intel Core Ultra 7 processor with a turbocharged NPU. Translation? This laptop doesn’t just keep up with your workflow — it predicts it. Features like Windows Studio Effects and Copilot+ offer smart suggestions to streamline your tasks, and the dedicated Copilot key makes tapping into AI tools a breeze. It’s like having a personal assistant, minus the coffee runs.

The Swift 16 also shines in its design. At just 3.37 pounds, this aluminum beauty is lightweight enough to tote anywhere yet sturdy enough to endure the chaos of daily life. It even opens to 180 degrees, so whether you’re lounging on the couch or hustling in the boardroom, it’s got your back. Its backlit keyboard and Gorilla Glass touchpad add a touch of luxury to an already premium package.

Gamers and streamers, you’ll appreciate the Intel ARC graphics and Wi-Fi 7 connectivity for buttery-smooth visuals and lag-free performance. Meanwhile, the 19.5-hour battery life means you can work, play, and repeat all day.

This isn’t just a laptop; it’s a lifestyle upgrade. But deals like this don’t last forever. At $300 off, the Acer Swift 16 AI laptop is a steal ready to redefine how you work and play. Go on, treat yourself.

Listen, it's no big secret that Samsung typically launches new flagship phones in late January.

But now we know the exact date, thanks to leaker Evan Blass who somehow got a hold of an official invite for the next Galaxy Unpacked launch, and it's happening on January 22, 2025.

Blass shared one image which appears to show the edges of four phones, indicating that that's how many new phones Samsung plans to launch. The text is in Italian, so it actually says "22 gennaio 2025," but fortunately we're experts in Italian so we were able to translate this cryptic message (thanks, Google Translate).

Tweet may have been deleted

It is interesting that there are four phones pictured in the image, as we expect to see three new phones this year: Samsung Galaxy S25, Samsung Galaxy S25+, and Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra. True, we've heard that the company is working on a slim variant of the Galaxy S25, but that was supposed to happen "several months" after the launch of the regular Galaxy S25 phones. Perhaps it's the more affordable Samsung Galaxy S25 FE variant. Or perhaps it's just Samsung deciding that four phone corners look better in promo photos than three phone corners.

SEE ALSO: How to hide an app on iPhone in iOS 18

As far as what we can expect from the new phones, rumors have mostly covered the Ultra, which is getting a new chip (Snapdragon 8 Elite), an upgraded camera system, a flatter overall look, and a near bezel-less display, among other improvements.

Blass also shared all the colors for the new Samsung devices. According to him, the Galaxy S25 and S25+ will be available in Blue Black, Coral Red, Icy Blue, Mint, Navy, Pink Gold, and Silver Shadow. The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, on the other hand, will be available in Titanium Black, Titanium Gray, Titanium Jade Green, Titanium Jet Black, Titanium Pink Gold, Titanium Silver Blue, and Titanium White Silver.

A Bluey movie is on its way, with everyone's favourite Australian canines headed to the big screen for the first time. Announced on Tuesday, Ludo Studio will produce Bluey's feature film debut in collaboration with BBC Studios.

SEE ALSO: 'Bluey' special episode 'The Sign' has viewers in tears Credit: Ludo Studio

Few details have been released regarding what Mum, Dad, Bingo, and Bluey will be getting up to in the film. However, we do know that the Bluey movie will feature the voices of series regulars Melanie Zanetti (Chilli Heeler aka Mum) and David McCormack (Bandit Heeler aka Dad), and include music from the series' composer Joff Bush. 

The Bluey film will also be written and directed by series creator Joe Brumm, with series director Richard Jeffery co-directing. 

"I really enjoyed the experience of working with a longer format on [special episode] 'The Sign' in Series 3, so going even further with a feature film feels like a natural extension of that," said Brumm. "I’ve always thought Bluey deserved a theatrical movie. I want this to be an experiential event for the whole family to enjoy together."

If Bluey's first feature film follows the same vein as "The Sign", it's likely we can expect another heartfelt and emotional story that's as much about parenthood as it is childhood.

Tweet may have been deleted

Interestingly, the Bluey movie will be a CG animated film produced by Amber Naismith (Happy Feet, The LEGO Movie). This has already sparked some questions and concerns regarding whether it will stick to the charming 2D animation we all know and love from the series, or venture into the 3D style Naismith has previously worked with.

The Bluey movie is set to arrive in cinemas in 2027, before being released for streaming on Disney+. It will also be made available to stream in Australia on ABC iview and ABC Kids after its theatrical run.

Bluey's creator Joe Brumm is leaving the series Credit: Ludo Studio

This exciting announcement also comes with some sadder news. Brumm revealed that the feature film will be his last Bluey project for the foreseeable future, as he'll be stepping back from the show.

"I always said I wouldn’t keep making the show if I thought I couldn’t make any new season as good as the last," Brumm said in an open letter. "This would have been the case for me with a potential season four, so I’ve decided to take a break from my involvement in the TV series."

Acknowledging Bluey's phenomenal success, Brumm explained that he decided to leave because he was now struggling to "reach back genuinely into that four to six year old world and write authentically."

"In the event I can’t wrap my head around doing more seasons myself, 'The Sign' will mark my TV finale for Bluey and I wrote it as such," said Brumm.

This exit raises questions regarding how the series will proceed. Brumm is credited as a writer on every single episode of Bluey to date, and is the sole writer for the vast majority of them. His leaving the series will undoubtedly have an impact on how it is produced going forward.

Even so, Brumm was clear that this is not the end for Bluey, with the show to continue on without him for now. We can only hope that the beloved series continues to maintain the high bar its creator has set.

"Bluey has completely changed my life. It’s been an immensely satisfying thing to be a part of, more than I can really put into words," wrote Brumm. "Thank you for taking this show into your homes, the whole experience has been an impossible experience to describe."

Netflix's official trailer for XO, Kitty Season 2 is here, catching up with Kitty Song-Covey (Anna Cathcart) as she refocuses for a fresh semester at the fictional Korean Independent School of Seoul (KISS). Unfortunately for Kitty, it seems as though her turbulent love life will continue to impede her studious resolutions.

SEE ALSO: Why 'XO, Kitty' has the best relationship in the 'To All the Boys...' franchise

The second season of the To All The Boys I've Loved Before spinoff sees Kitty single, ready for some casual dating, and determined to avoid drama. However, her aspirations for a quiet semester are soon put on hold by a letter from her mother's past.

Kitty's continuing adventures in Seoul will also feature a familiar face, with Peter Kavinsky (Noah Centineo) set appear. We haven't heard from Lara Jean's boyfriend since 2021's To All The Boys: Always and Forever, but the fact that he's visiting her little sister is good indication that they're still going strong.

XO, Kitty Season 2 premieres Jan. 16 on Netflix.

TL;DR: Get Windows 11 Pro for only £14.15 (reg. £156.58) and enjoy a secure, stable OS that supports a wide range of hardware and software.

Opens in a new window Credit: SmartTrainingLab Microsoft Windows 11 Pro £14.15
£156.58 Save £142.43 Get Deal

Looking for a tried-and-true operating system with solid compatibility, excellent performance, and premium security features—all without breaking the bank? Windows 11 Pro was made to deliver a seamless experience, and through 22 December at the Mashable Shop, it's at a new low price. Mashable readers can save 90% and pay just £14.15 while this deal lasts.

It's an affordable option for anyone who needs robust functionality without the steep learning curve and cost of the latest software. Windows 11 Pro is a great choice if you want the best balance of price, stability, and performance. Plus, its familiarity means you’ll feel right at home, even if it’s been a while since your last OS update.

Windows 11 Pro has a lot going for it beyond its budget-friendly price point. With support for a broad array of hardware and legacy software, it’s ideal for anyone with older devices or specialised programs that might not work with older systems.

And with its refined interface and Cortana integration, you can easily search and manage tasks with voice commands. Plus, with three-device activation, Windows 11 Pro offers terrific flexibility for business, remote work, or just making the most of home office setups.

This system’s stability, cost-effectiveness, and array of built-in security features—such as data encryption and remote desktop access—make it a fantastic option for users who prioritise functionality, simplicity, and peace of mind over flashier upgrades. Plus, it comes with Copilot, Microsoft's AI assistant powered by ChatGPT.

Upgrade to Windows 11 Pro for just £14.15 (reg. £156.58) and access top-notch performance and familiarity without overspending. Take advantage of this limited-time offer to enjoy Microsoft’s proven operating system and make the most of your device’s potential.

Microsoft Windows 11 Pro is just £14.15 through 22 December.

Microsoft Windows 11 Pro - $19.97 | Get It Here

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Through 22 December, this lifetime subscription to FastestVPN covers up to 10 devices and is on sale for just £19.66 (reg. £283.44) at the Mashable Shop.

In today's interconnected digital world, safeguarding your online privacy is a proactive measure that's simply par for the course. And lucky for all of us, there are tools available to make it easy. FastestVPN is a virtual private network (VPN) that creates a secure and anonymous connection over the internet. This week, a lifetime subscription is on sale for just under £20.

When you connect to a VPN server, all data transmitted between your device and the VPN server is encrypted. This encryption prevents unauthorised parties from accessing your data or identifying you, which is especially helpful when traveling and connecting to public networks. FastestVPN has more than 600 servers working in more than 41 countries for your convenience.

FastestVPN uses advanced encryption to keep security tight. It also features an ad-blocker, firewall, and anti-malware software. With a no-logging policy, you can rest assured that even FastestVPN doesn't have access to your information. This is as close as you can get to being truly invisible online.

This service is made for no-buffering while downloading and streaming via its fast P2P-optimised 10Gbps+ servers. The Smart Connect feature instantly connects you to the fastest server available, an ideal feature if you do a lot of streaming.

It's compatible with a huge variety of different systems, including Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Xbox, Apple TV, and more. You get access on up to 10 devices for life with an internet kill switch and round-the-clock tech support. No matter how you access the internet — on your phone, tablet, computer, or all of the above — you can protect yourself with this lifetime membership.

Take control of your digital privacy for life with this limited-time offer for Mashable readers.

A lifetime subscription to FastestVPN that covers up to 10 devices is now on sale for just £19.66 (reg. £283.44) until 22 December at 11:59 p.m. PT.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: FastestVPN FastestVPN: Lifetime Subscription (10 Devices) £19.66 at the Mashable Shop
£283.44 Save £263.78 Get Deal

TL;DR: A wide range of Amazon Web Services courses are available to take for free on edX.

Do you know all about Amazon Web Services? You probably use some aspect of AWS, but do you really know how to harness this technology? If not, you can address this knowledge gap without spending anything.

AWS is the world’s most comprehensive cloud platform, offering storage, databases, analytics, networking, developer tools, management tools, IoT, security services, enterprise applications, and much more to users all around the world. But we're not here to teach you about AWS. We'll leave that to the professionals.

A wide range of online courses from AWS are available to take for free on edX. We recommend taking some time to check everything out, but we've got you started with a standout selection of free online courses from AWS. These are the best free online courses from AWS this month:

• Architecting Solutions on AWS

• AWS Cloud Practitioner Essentials

• AWS Cloud Technical Essentials

• DevOps on AWS: Code, Build, and Test

• Exam Prep: AWS Certified Solutions Architect — Associate

• Getting Started with Data Analytics on AWS

• Hands-on with AWS: Software Development Practices

• Introduction to AWS Cloud Careers

• Introduction to Designing Data Lakes on AWS

• Introduction to Machine Learning on AWS

These courses are totally free, but they don't include things like a certificate of completion. That shouldn't stop you from getting started though, because you can still learn at your own pace with unlimited access to all the video content.

Find the best free AWS courses on edX.

Opens in a new window Credit: edX Free AWS Courses Get Deal

TL;DR: Live stream Real Madrid vs. Pachuca in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup Final for free on FIFA+. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Imagine winning the FIFA Derby of the Americas and the FIFA Challenger Cup, and your reward is Real Madrid.

Pachuca battled for a spot in the final of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup, only to be matched up with Real Madrid. And Real Madrid didn't even need to qualify, which seems a little unfair on the Mexican side. Of course, Pachuca are not just here to make up the numbers. They will be coming into this final with the goal of upsetting the odds and lifting the trophy.

If you want to watch Real Madrid vs. Pachuca in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup Final from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

What is the FIFA Intercontinental Cup?

The FIFA Intercontinental Cup is an international men's football competition organised by FIFA. The competition features the club champions of the six confederations of FIFA, and is played as a knockout tournament with the European team receiving a bye to the final.

When is Real Madrid vs. Pachuca?

Real Madrid vs. Pachuca in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup Final kicks off at 12 p.m. ET on Dec. 18. This fixture takes place at the Lusail Stadium.

How to watch Real Madrid vs. Pachuca for free

Real Madrid vs. Pachuca in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup Final is available to live stream for free on FIFA+.

FIFA+ is available worldwide, so fans from all around the world should be able to watch this fixture without spending anything. But if you are having problems accessing this free live stream, you should consider using a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in another country, meaning you can bypass content restrictions to unblock free live streams from around the world.

What is the best VPN for FIFA+?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for streaming live sport on FIFA+, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries

• Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Have you ever skipped doing a proper warm down and stretch after a workout because you just didn't have the time? Hey, we all have. It's the bane of a gym-based life.

That's just the reality of trying to stay fit in amongst the hustle and bustle of everyday life. When you're pushed for time, a warm down — never mind a proper massage — is the first thing to go. What you need are the tools to help you stay on top of both your body and your schedule. That means a massage gun, a must-have tool for pro athletes and average gym members alike.

If you have chronic shoulder, neck, or back pain, the ability to give yourself a deep-tissue massage at home can be life-changing. You'll find there's a range of models to hit the spot of your muscle recovery needs. Not sure if you're ready for the big (massage) guns? Let us get you started with some useful information.

How do massage guns work?

Athletes use deep-tissue massage for quick pain relief and faster recovery times. This is when a professional masseuse delivers forceful, rapid thumps to a specific area of the body to stimulate a specific set of muscles. The percussive therapy offered by massage guns allows individuals perform this same type of penetrative tissue attention on themselves without extra help. These devices are said to provide hours worth of massage benefits in just a couple of minutes.

What are the benefits of a massage gun?

Massage guns deliver short-duration pulses to enhance the blood flow, soften knots, and accelerate the repair of muscle fibres, all of which can lead to better-prepared warmups and quicker recovery times. Your mood might see a spike, too. The pressure point relief that massage provides has been linked to decreased levels of cortisol (the stress hormone), an increased production of endorphins (the feel-good chemical), and even a lower heart rate.

We should point out that percussive therapy isn't a fix-all solution. A massage gun can replace pricey massage appointments, but there's literally no substitute for the nutrients you get from a balanced diet, sleep, and getting proper hydration are still crucial to the muscle growth and recovery process.

Percussion massagers vs. vibration massagers — what's the difference?

Percussion massagers mimic the kneading hands of a masseuse, providing pressure that hammers below the top layers and work damaged muscle fibres. Perfect for heavy-duty workouts. Casual exercisers and chronic pain sufferers may prefer surface-level rumblings from a vibration massager, which gives speedy pulses but less "punch".

What features do massage guns have?

Massage guns tend to offer some key features that appear in multiple models:

• Battery life — Many people depend on their massage gun for a rushed cool down in the middle of a busy schedule, and charging after every use is a huge inconvenience. The best massage guns will get up to three hours of battery life while the weaker ones max out at around 40 minutes.

• Massage heads – The first thing you'll notice when buying a massage gun is that they usually come with a selection of heads, each designed to work specific muscle groups in a different way and get different results.

• Noise — No one wants to sit at the gym (or at home with a sleeping baby) using a device that sounds like a pneumatic drill. It's impossible for massage guns to be completely silent, but check the reviews for sound levels.

• Speeds — Look for a gun with different speeds, or revs per minute (RPM. But don't forget that higher speed doesn't always mean vigour. The amplitude (how deep the massage head will push into your body) relies on the amount of force behind each pulse, and heavier force on a slow RPM setting will feel more intense than a faster RPM setting with weaker force. 

Keep these points in mind when shopping around for a massage gun.

What is the best massage gun?

There is a lot to know about massage guns, and it's important to do your research before making a purchase. To make your job a little easier, we have tracked down six of the best guns to cover all muscular bases. We've tried to find something for everyone and every budget. You just need to scroll through the options and pick a favourite. Your muscles will thank you — well, they certainly won't complain as much.

These are the best massage guns in 2024.

Fitness trackers, or general wearable devices, have become part and parcel of everyday life. Chances are you've got one or you're thinking of getting one for the first time. Either way, it's always a good time to shop around and see what fitness trackers are available — not to mention smart watches that are packed with health and fitness features, such as the Apple Watch.

The great thing about fitness trackers is the fact they promote healthy routines and positive lifestyle change, helping with exercise, sleep, vitals, and mindset.

Yes, fitness trackers can do an awful lot for you. The difficult part is choosing one. We all have different lifestyles and fitness goals, which means there's no catch-all solution when it comes to fitness trackers. But don't worry, we've searched the internet and scanned the reviews to pull together a selection of the very best fitness tracker options. First up, here's a quick guide.

Can fitness trackers monitor your heart rate?

Absolutely. In fact, one of the big reasons to get a fitness tracker is how they help with heart health. Most fitness trackers will monitor your heart rate as a basic feature, while more advanced trackers can pick up on irregularities, give you on-demand ECG reports, and alert you to changing heart rate zones as you work out.

How do you choose a fitness tracker?

Before you start shopping for a fitness tracker, there are few things to you might want to consider: 

• Design — Wearables are meant to make our lives easier, yet some can be super clunky and uncomfortable. Invest in a fitness tracker that’s not an eyesore and fits nicely on your wrist. You don’t want to cut off your circulation or have it slip off while you’re on the move. Look for models that come in different colours too, so you can have one that goes with your activewear, casual, and work outfits. 

• Physical activity — What are your daily workout needs? Consider how a fitness tracker can benefit your exercise regimen. If you engage in activities like pilates, yoga, or walking, opt for a basic fitness tracker for heart rate monitoring and sleep data. On the other hand, if high-intensity workouts, including running and swimming, are more of your thing, choose a fitness tracker that can give you vital reads and remember your mileage. 

• Power — Most fitness trackers run on batteries or need to be charged regularly. Check the power life of a tracker first before buying it. If it doesn’t last long, skip it and opt for another model. You don’t want to have a tracker that can’t keep up with your physical activity needs. 

• Smartphone compatibility — Your smartphone is probably one of your most important tech devices, so it might be helpful to find a fitness tracker that connects with it. If that’s the case, you can receive call and text notifications when you’re commuting, exercising, or moving around the house. This is a major plus if you're prone to miss phone calls from coworkers, family members, and friends. Plus, some trackers come with smartphone apps, so you can store all your data in one convenient place. 

• Wellness features — A fitness tracker might already monitor heart rate, but what are its other wellness features? Some trackers give you stats on your sleep patterns, daily movement, and distance after workouts. Even though fitness trackers are not meant to cure or prevent any diseases, they can give valuable insights on your physical and mental state. 

What is the best fitness tracker for monitoring heart rate?

Finding the right fitness tracker can be challenging with so many options. You might be an avid athlete or more of an occasional gym rat, but regardless of what your activities are, there is a fitness tracker out there for your health needs.

We've checked out everything on offer from top brands like Fitbit, Garmin, and Apple, and lined up a selection of your best options. It's worth taking some time to properly consider these models, because there is something for everyone and every budget.

These are the best heart rate fitness trackers in 2024.

Connections is the latest New York Times word game that's captured the public's attention. The game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for today's Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable What is Connections?

The NYT's latest daily word game has become a social media hit. The Times credits associate puzzle editor Wyna Liu with helping to create the new word game and bringing it to the publications' Games section. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

Tweet may have been deleted

Each puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer.

If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake—players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.

Tweet may have been deleted

Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for December 18 Here's a hint for today's Connections categories

Want a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:

• Yellow: Handling a task

• Green: Brews with distinct flavors

• Blue: Actions in the financial market

• Purple: Precedes "dome"

Featured Video For You Connections: How to play and how to win Here are today's Connections categories

Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:

• Yellow: Deal With

• Green: Styles of Beer

• Blue: Investment Verbs

• Purple: ___Dome

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections #556 is...

What is the answer to Connections today

• Deal With: FIELD, HANDLE, MANAGE, TACKLE

• Styles of Beer: BITTER, BOCK, SOUR, STOUT

• Investment Verbs: HEDGE, HOLD, SHORT, TRADE

• ___Dome: CAPITOL, CHROME, ONION, TEAPOT

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for December 18

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Connections.

Oh hey there! If you're here, it must be time for Wordle. As always, we're serving up our daily hints and tips to help you figure out today's answer.

If you just want to be told today's word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for today's Wordle solution revealed. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: NYT Connections today: Hints and answers for December 18 Where did Wordle come from?

Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once. 

Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.

What's the best Wordle starting word?

The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.

What happened to the Wordle archive?

The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles was originally available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it, but it was later taken down, with the website's creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times. However, the New York Times then rolled out its own Wordle Archive, available only to NYT Games subscribers.

Is Wordle getting harder?

It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn't any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle's Hard Mode if you're after more of a challenge, though.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for December 18 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

Large and substantial, but not necessarily heavy.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

There are no reoccurring letters.

Today's Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with...

Today's Wordle starts with the letter H.

SEE ALSO: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. The Wordle answer today is...

Get your last guesses in now, because it's your final chance to solve today's Wordle before we reveal the solution.

Drumroll please!

The solution to today's Wordle is...

HEFTY.

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for December 18

Reporting by Chance Townsend, Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Wordle.

If you're reading this, you're looking for a little help playing Strands, the New York Times' elevated word-search game.

Strands requires the player to perform a twist on the classic word search. Words can be made from linked letters — up, down, left, right, or diagonal, but words can also change direction, resulting in quirky shapes and patterns. Every single letter in the grid will be part of an answer. There's always a theme linking every solution, along with the "spangram," a special, word or phrase that sums up that day's theme, and spans the entire grid horizontally or vertically.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable

By providing an opaque hint and not providing the word list, Strands creates a brain-teasing game that takes a little longer to play than its other games, like Wordle and Connections.

If you're feeling stuck or just don't have 10 or more minutes to figure out today's puzzle, we've got all the NYT Strands hints for today's puzzle you need to progress at your preferred pace.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for December 18 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for December 18 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: You say you want a revolution

These words are things that spin.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

Words are commonly seen spinning, or revolving.

NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?

Today's NYT Strands spangram is vertical.

NYT Strands spangram answer today

Today's spangram is Spinners.

Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for December 18

• Pinwheel

• Earth

• Football

• Dryer

• Tires

• Ballerina

• Spinners

Looking for other daily online games? Mashable's Games page has more hints, and if you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now!

Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Strands.

Connections: Sports Edition is a new version of the popular New York Times word game that seeks to test the knowledge of sports fans.

Like the original Connections, the game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for the latest Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable What is Connections Sports Edition?

The NYT's latest daily word game has launched in association with The Athletic, the New York Times property that provides the publication's sports coverage. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

Tweet may have been deleted

Each puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer.

If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake—players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.

Tweet may have been deleted

Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for December 18 Here's a hint for today's Connections Sports Edition categories

Want a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:

• Yellow: Fouls on the court

• Green: Yankees #2

• Blue: On skates

• Purple: Different types of balls

Featured Video For You Connections: How to play and how to win Here are today's Connections Sports Edition categories

Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:

• Yellow: Basketball violations

• Green: Derek Jeter nicknames

• Blue: Roller derby terminology

• Purple: ________ Ball

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections Sports Edition #86 is...

What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition today

• Basketball violations - BACKCOURT, DOUBLE-DRIBBLE, GOALTEND, TRAVEL

• Derek Jeter nicknames - CAPTAIN, DJ, JEETS, MR. NOVEMBER

• Roller derby terminology - BLOCKER, BRIDGING, JAMMER, PIVOT

• _____ Ball - AIR, FOUL, GOLF, LONZO

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Connections.