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Kids these days don't know how good they've got it. Back in our day, we had to sharpen our pencils, pay attention, and take notes on everything the teacher said. Today, all you need is this app. 

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Considering making a career change? If you've got your eye on project management, you need to get familiar with the PMBOK® 7 (the Project Management Body of Knowledge) guidebook and start preparing for the PMP® (Project Management Professional) exam.

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A call from someone pretending to be an IRS agent is, for most of us, just part of the furniture of modern digital life. We hang up, we block the number, we move on. But for Ashton Bingham, then an aspiring actor in LA, one such call in August 2016 was an opportunity to have some fun.

"I was getting a ton of them, and I just decided to film one as a Facebook video," Bingham says. "The call went on for an hour, and it was absolutely insane. Long story short, it went viral" when the scammer ended up blocking Bingham's number — and changed his life. Now Bingham and Art Kulik, a Russian immigrant and former Olympian who met Bingham prior to a Law and Order audition, have turned baiting scammers into their full-time job via Trilogy Media, a YouTube channel with more than 1.6 million subscribers.

But baiting scammers, it turns out, is an art form popular enough to sustain multiple entertainers with wildly different styles. In 2019, another LA resident — musician and voice actor Rosie Okumura — decided she'd chase down a scammer who bilked her mother out of $500 via a Windows pop-up window on her PC. Again, she recorded the call on an hour-plus Facebook video; again, it went viral, this time in large part because Okumura fooled the scammer by claiming she was Kim Kardashian.

SEE ALSO: Have you been impacted by a scam or security breach?

"After that, I got so many requests in my DMs [for more scam-baiting content]," Okumura says, "and the rest is history" — or rather, the rest is another popular YouTube channel, IRLRosie, which also has 1.6 million subscribers, plus a TikTok channel, with bite-size scambaiting clips and 1.2 million followers.

With online scams growing fast — the FTC says reported scams cost people in the U.S. more than $12.5 billion in 2024, which was a 25% increase on the 2023 figure — it shouldn't be a surprise that opposing them should be big business too. Indeed, this new form of entertainment is enough of a rising tide to lift all boats.

Instead of being competitors, Trilogy Media and IRLRosie are effectively colleagues who swap notes and sometimes tag-team the same scammers in the same video. Okumura still favors the simple home-based style, where the humor comes from her wasting scammers' time via voice acting. Bingham and Kulik, meanwhile, have charged off in the direction of internet vigilantism, reinvesting their YouTube revenue into filming elaborate in-person scammer traps in the U.S. and abroad.

"They get in pretty deep that way, whereas I do not feel safe," Okumura says. If she feels a particular scammer warrants that kind of attention, she'll pass on the details to Bingham and Kulik. Ironically, given the name of her channel, "It's Trilogy Media that does things more IRL [in real life]."

SEE ALSO: Get ready for these scams in 2025

Bingham and Kulik, meanwhile, say they've just sealed the deal for an unscripted TV show with an as-yet-unnamed channel — which, along with their paid channel Trilogy+, should help take the edge off the fact that some of their videos are de-monetized by YouTube for getting a little too real, such as mentioning names and locations of scammers.

"We're more vulgar, we're a little bit more edgy" than most scambaiters, Kulik says — but that's just their true personalities coming through. "The only way we know how to do this long term is to stay true to who we are."

Even these two channels are just the tip of an online iceberg of scambaiting. Here's a quick guide to the most popular luminaries in a growing landscape of YouTube creators devoted to tweaking scammers, in the order they began.

Jim Browning

YouTube subscribers: 4.4 million

Earliest video: 2014 (on YouTube)

Location: Northern Ireland

Most popular video: "Calling scammers by their real names" (2020), in which Browning tracks down the nefarious companies behind fake virus messages, has garnered more than 45 million views.

Biggest claim to fame: Working with the BBC investigative series Panorama in 2020 to bring down an Indian call center full of scammers.

Style: Browning (not his real name) is no LA entertainer. He's more of a behind-the-scenes figure who rarely shows his face, preferring to share his screen while tracking down scammers — essentially walking viewers through the steps needed to turn the tables.

Trilogy Media

YouTube subscribers: 1.6 million

Earliest video: 2016 (on Facebook)

Location: Los Angeles, worldwide

Most popular video: "Hunting a scammer with cops" (2022), seen 5.6 million times, in which Bingham and Kulik and the authorities arrive at the front door of a "refund scammer" carrying $40,000 in fake cash.

Biggest claim to fame: Winning the "collaboration award" at the 2022 Streamy awards for a video with Jim Browning and another popular YouTube creator, former NASA engineer Mark Rober. The video covered a "glitter bomb" delivered to the home of a scammer, who is later arrested.

Style: With more than 600 scam-baiting videos, most filmed on location, and 169 million YouTube views, and the most collaborations with other creators, Bingham and Kulik can claim to be the hardest-working duo in scambaiting.

IRLRosie

YouTube subscribers: 1.6 million

Earliest video: 2019 (on Facebook)

Location: Los Angeles

Most popular video: "Scamming the scammer in 5 voices!" (2019) has 13.3 million views. Okumura knows why: the final voice she uses is that of Britney Spears, in which she tells the scammer that she's hosting a revival of the MTV show Crank Yankers.

Biggest claim to fame: Probably the most frequently recognized scambaiter, Okumura receives thanks for her anti-scam activities everywhere she goes. "The best part is getting recognized at restaurants," she says. "They will comp my bill!"

Style: Friendly and fun; the payback part is simply wasting the scammers' time so they can't move on to someone more vulnerable. "I feel like teaching people how to avoid scams is better than helping someone who's lost a ton of money, or putting myself in a dangerous situation," Okumura says.

Scammer Payback

YouTube subscribers: 8.12 million

Earliest video: 2019 (on YouTube)

Location: U.S.

Most popular video: "Scammer begs for his deleted files as I drink his tears" (2020) with more than 24 million views.

Biggest claim to fame: The People's Call Center, a collaboration with the anonymous Scammer Payback team. The Call Center worked with AnyDesk, a software company that allows remote desktop access, to shut down more than 2,000 scammer-run accounts on the service.

Style: Also known as Pierogi, Scammer Payback is like a mix of Browning and Trilogy media; he mostly shares his screen, but appears superimposed above it. He likes to elicit "extreme scammer rage" from his targets.

Scambaiter

YouTube subscribers: 2.7 million

Earliest video: 2021

Location: India

Most popular video: "Showing a scammer his own webcam on my computer" (2021), with more than 34.5 million views.

Biggest claim to fame: Arguably the most popular scambaiting channel not based in the US or UK.

Style: Scambaiter is the pseudonym of an Indian engineer who focuses on the scam-based "call centers" on the rise in his country, sometimes by hijacking their webcams — and in one notable case, hacking into their PA system. There's no entertainment frills, no voice acting, just pure uncut tech-based scam baiting.

Have a story to share about a scam or security breach that impacted you? Tell us about it. Email submissions@mashable.com with the subject line "Safety Net" or use this form. Someone from Mashable will get in touch.

Online scams aren’t just becoming more common, they’re changing in approach, and getting harder to spot. These days, there are scams all over the internet, and while some are relatively easy to spot, others are highly sophisticated – and you might not notice them until it’s too late.

That said, a bit of knowledge of online scams and how they work can go a long way. For the vast majority of online scams, there are telltale signs, and spotting them could save you from falling victim. Here are some of the most common online scams and the warning signs associated with them.

Phishing scams

Phishing scams are a common type of online fraud where scammers impersonate trusted companies, like banks or online retailers, in an effort to steal personal information like passwords or credit card details. These messages, often sent via email or text, are designed to convince you to click on a link to a web page where you’ll share sensitive data. For example, you might get an email that looks like it’s from your bank, warning of suspicious activity and prompting you to “verify” your account. Click the link, and you’ll be taken to a website that looks like your real bank’s website – but it’s not, and when you enter your password, you’re actually handing it over to scammers.

SEE ALSO: Online phishing scams and what to look out for

To spot phishing attempts, look for generic greetings like “Dear Customer,” suspicious sender addresses, and poor spelling or grammar. Be wary of urgent requests or threats that push you to act quickly. If something feels off, don’t click any links. Instead, visit the company’s official website directly to check your account. For example, if you get an email that looks like it’s from your bank, don’t click the link – navigate manually to your bank’s website to log in and find out if the email is the real deal.

Investment scams

Investment scams lure people in by promising guaranteed or unusually high returns with little to no risk. Scammers often pose as financial advisors or representatives of legitimate-sounding companies, pushing opportunities in areas like cryptocurrency, stocks, or forex trading. These schemes might show fake testimonials, flashy websites, or even forged documents to appear credible and pressure you into investing quickly.

SEE ALSO: Have you been impacted by a scam or security breach?

The warning signs include promises of “guaranteed” profits, pressure to act fast, or being asked to invest through unregulated platforms. Be cautious if someone you don’t know reaches out about an investment opportunity, especially if they only communicate online. Always research thoroughly and consult a trusted financial professional before sending any money. 

Job offer scams

Job offer scams target people by advertising high-paying, low-effort jobs or sending unsolicited offers that sound too good to be true. Scammers pose as recruiters or hiring managers from real or fake companies and quickly move to offer you a position without a formal interview. Often, these scams involve requests for personal information, upfront payments for training or equipment, or sending you a check and asking you to wire back part of the funds – only for the original check to be fake.

SEE ALSO: Get ready for these scams in 2025

To avoid falling victim to a job offer scam, watch for vague job descriptions, poor communication, or requests for money early in the hiring process. Be skeptical of offers that promise large sums of money for little or no work. A legitimate employer will never ask you to pay fees or share sensitive information like your Social Security number as part of the screening or interview process.

Tech support scams

Tech support scams trick people into believing their computer or device has a serious issue, like a virus or security breach. Scammers may use pop-up warnings, fake antivirus alerts, or even cold calls pretending to be from companies like Microsoft or Apple. The goal is to scare you into giving them remote access to your device or paying for unnecessary repairs and services.

Warning signs include unsolicited messages claiming your device is infected, requests to install remote access software, or demands for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency. Legitimate tech companies won’t call you out of the blue or pressure you to act immediately. If you’re unsure, close the pop-up or hang up and contact the company directly through official support channels – if you believe the scam might be impersonating a legitimate company.

Online marketplace scams

Online marketplace scams happen when buyers or sellers on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or eBay try to defraud others. Common tactics include sellers offering high-demand items at suspiciously low prices, or buyers sending fake payment confirmations and asking you to ship the item before funds are actually received. Some scammers even overpay with a fraudulent check and request a refund of the difference. And, sometimes these scams come in the form of cheap rental properties advertised on websites like Craigslist.

To avoid these scams, be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true, buyers or sellers who refuse to meet in person, or anyone asking for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency. Always verify payment before shipping an item and stick to secure payment methods offered by the platform whenever possible.

Charity scams

Charity scams exploit people’s goodwill by posing as legitimate nonprofits, especially after natural disasters or during the holiday season. Scammers often create fake websites or send emails and phone calls asking for donations, sometimes using emotional stories to pressure quick contributions. These fraudulent charities often request untraceable payments like wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency.

To spot a charity scam, be wary of urgent pleas for help, vague details about how donations will be used, or organizations you’ve never heard of. Legitimate charities are transparent, have clear contact information, and allow you to donate securely through their official website. 

Stay skeptical

The basic gist of avoiding online scams is that you should never trust someone you don’t know when they’re asking for money or personal information, especially if they contacted you rather than the other way around. There are so many more online scams than just those listed here. Pay close attention to website URLs and email addresses, and look for any that are close to the real deal, but not quite the same.

Have a story to share about a scam or security breach that impacted you? Tell us about it. Email submissions@mashable.com with the subject line "Safety Net" or use this form. Someone from Mashable will get in touch.

Harald Bluetooth, a 10th century Danish king, knew nothing of the wireless device connection technology that bears his name. But King Bluetooth died fighting a rebellion started by his son, which means both Bluetooths have a common problem: unexpected security issues caused by nefarious connections.

That's not just a cautionary tale for medieval monarchs. It's also smart for us in 2025 to beware of rebellious Bluetooths. Dependent devices (like your favorite Bluetooth headphones) can seem like your children, essential to your life. And they can also be treacherous if they hook up with the wrong kind of people, namely hackers and thieves.

SEE ALSO: Have you been impacted by a scam or security breach?

Bluetooth has gone through a few iterations since 2019, when Mashable advised turning it off as much as possible, and will likely be improved by widespread implementation of Bluetooth 6.0 in 2025. Bluetooth 6 offers devices the ability to know where the other one is, down to the centimeter, according to the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) that oversees the technology. In theory, this should prevent so-called Man In The Middle attacks that can suck up data from devices, or control them.

The problem with Bluetooth

None of this, however, solves the essential cybersecurity problem of Bluetooth. A Bluetooth device just loves to shout about itself to the world. That's essentially what the low-power radio technology is, constant low-level boasting (again, like a child) while looking to play with others.

SEE ALSO: Secret commands found in Bluetooth chip used in a billion devices

And it's up to you, as the parent, to turn off these traits when the child is most vulnerable.

To see the scale of the parental problem here, download one of the free Bluetooth scanner apps on the App Store or Google Play. I write this with BT Inspector open on my iPhone. It can see and name about a dozen of my devices, and see about a dozen more unknown devices, probably my neighbors'.

If any one of those devices does not require a pairing code or similar security for a connection, they're essentially open to any hacker that walks by. But hey, I mean, it's not like one of the most commonly used Bluetooth chips on the planet just turned out to have a bunch of nefarious undocumented commands nobody knew about before baked into it. Oh wait, it did.

Bluetooth creates unexpected vulnerabilities

Meanwhile, petty thieves have caught on to Bluetooth scanner apps. Time was when an opportunistic car break-in was just that, a gamble that there might be something of value in the vehicle. Now a scanner can tell you for sure, since any Bluetooth device in the car is likely pretty valuable.

I personally witnessed the efficiency of this kind of theft, in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park in 2024. A vehicle crawled along a line of parked cars, in broad daylight. Out jumped a man in a ski mask, carrying a smartphone; he ran immediately to one car, smashed the rear window, grabbed a bag, and had time to flip off the guy honking behind him before jumping back in the car and speeding off.

That's just the world we're living in now: Gone in six seconds, never mind 60. One Outside magazine writer, after testing Faraday envelopes and in-car safes, found some success wrapping devices in his car in tin foil. If you must leave devices in your car at a trailhead, say, we have a better solution: just turn Bluetooth off.

It's a Bluetooth world (and universe)

This is the solution overall: Simple awareness. Good Bluetooth hygiene, if you will.

You turn Bluetooth off on devices when they're in vulnerable situations (a parked car, a DEFCON hacker convention). You don't connect any Bluetooth device to a Bluetooth device that you don't own. (If you must, say in connecting your phone to a rental car, or connecting to a speaker at a party, you remember to delete the connection afterwards.) If a device doesn't have any pairing security, consider buying an alternative that does or make sure it's turned off when you're not using it. And if you're in charge of your organization's security, you get really paranoid about every leaky device in the office.

SEE ALSO: Have you been impacted by a scam or security breach?

But as for consumers: is it realistic, any longer, to expect us to live a Bluetooth-free life? You might as well ask us to live without screens.

King Bluetooth is everywhere, and its conquest of the planet is just getting started. More than 5 billion new Bluetooth devices ship around the planet every year, and that number is expected to surpass 7 billion a year in 2028. That's the equivalent of every single person on the planet getting a new Bluetooth device every year. This cheap, easy, low-power connection technology, this glue for the Internet of Things, it's a universal standard.

As of 2024, it's even being used off-planet, by satellites that can detect a Bluetooth signal at a distance of 600 km. The company behind the satellites, Hubble Network, has a vision of connecting all Bluetooth devices on the planet via satellite — a much cheaper Starlink, essentially.

So you might not be able to avoid using Bluetooth on a daily basis – but switch it off when you're done with it and stay mindful of where you leave your Bluetooth-enabled devices.

Have a story to share about a scam or security breach that impacted you? Tell us about it. Email submissions@mashable.com with the subject line "Safety Net" or use this form. Someone from Mashable will get in touch.

Scams on the Internet are big business. Consumers reportedly lose more than $10 billion annually to them, and every year there is a new wave of scams to bilk people out of their hard-earned money. You may be a victim of such a scam and that’s why you’re here. We’ll do our best to help. 

Giving your personal information to a potential scammer is a stressful situation where answers need to come quickly. Minimizing your risk when you are vulnerable requires time and decisive action. Here are several steps you can take to attempt to freeze out scammers from using your personal information. 

Stop interacting with the scammers immediately

In short, the harm has already been done and there is no need to continue talking to the people who just stole your information. Block them by whatever means necessary. That means blocking their phone number if it happened over a call or text and their email if it was done over email. 

That includes blocking them on messaging services as well. Discord scams are rather popular these days, so it’s not unusual to see a scam occur on a messaging service like that. In short, block them everywhere and don’t communicate with them anymore. 

If the scammer has your payment info

The first step is making sure to cut off the scammer from your money and then attempting to recoup your losses. This is easier said and done since there is a lot of ways to send money to people these days.

If you paid with your credit card, debit card, or bank account

If you used your real bank account, debit card, or credit card, the first step is contacting your financial institution. This also applies to wire transfers through your bank account. I took a look at over 30 random banks and credit unions. The overwhelming majority of them have a fraud reporting helpline that is open 24/7. 

Calmly tell your bank that you were the victim of a scam and that any money taken by them was fraudulent and unauthorized. Your bank may go through your recent purchases with you, so make sure to check your bank account transactions so you know which charge was the fraudulent one.

Many banks also have online reporting methods.

Per the FTC, your bank should be able to work with you on reversing those charges so that you get your money back. 

In addition, you’ll want to have a new credit or debit card issued to you, and you’ll want to change the PINs on those cards once they arrive. It’s also a good idea to change your password to your bank account to something stronger.

If you paid a scammer with a wire transfer

The same rules apply here. Contact the wire transfer company and tell them that you have been scammed. All major wire transfer companies like MoneyGram and Western Union have fraud claim forms you can fill out and phone numbers you can contact. Once you get the forms filled out, you should be on your way to getting your money back. 

If you paid a scammer with a gift card

Scammers going after gift cards is also something that happens fairly often and the method here is the same as above.

The FTC recommends contacting the issuer of the gift card and telling them that your gift card was the victim of a scam. Unfortunately, most sources say that you likely won’t get your money back, but quickly reporting the fraud will increase your chances, especially if you still have the gift card and the receipt showing that you paid for it. 

If you paid a scammer by sending cash

This one can be one of the easier scams to recover from as packages can be intercepted and delivery ceased – assuming the scammer hasn’t already received the package. Below is a list of links and phone numbers you can use depending on which service you use. It may cost you a few bucks but it’s better than giving a scammer money.

• USPS - Package intercept FAQ or call 1-800-275-8777

• UPS - Package intercept FAQ or call 1-800-742-5877

• FedEx - Package intercept FAQ or call 1-800-463-3339

• DHL - Package intercept FAQ or call 1-800-225-5345

If you used a different carrier, check their website for package intercept instructions or call their customer service number to have the package stopped. 

If you gave the scammer your personal information

Giving a scammer your personal information can have devastating ramifications. Fortunately, the solution is rather simple but you must act fast. 

If you fear the scammer has enough information to steal your identity

The U.S. government has an identity theft tool that you can use to monitor your credit and identity in case someone tries to steal it. Here’s how it works.

• Go to IdentityTheft.gov

• Click the Get started now link

• Follow the prompts as directed.

• The tool will help you create a recovery plan. 

• If the scammer has your social security number, you should also call the Social Security Administration’s fraud hotline at 1-800-269-0271 to report the fraud. 

• Change any passwords, PINs, or other login credentials for any account that you suspect has been tampered with.

You can find more information about IdentityTheft.gov here, which has additional bits of advice to help you. 

Another step you should immediately take is to freeze your credit. This is a relatively simple step to take that prevents anyone — including you — from taking out a new line of credit in your name. To save you some time, here are the links and phone numbers you’ll need to do that. 

• Equifax - Credit freeze FAQ or call 1-888-298-0045

• Experian - Credit freeze FAQ or call 1-888-397-3742

• TransUnion - Credit freeze FAQ or call 1-800-916-8800

You can unfreeze your credit once the risk has been mitigated.

Finally, in addition to the above, the Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) recommends documenting every interaction you have with the authorities and financial institutions. This includes (but is not limited to) the following:

• Log all dates, names, and phone numbers.

• Any correspondence sent through mail should be certified mail with a delivery receipt. 

• Do not delete any emails regarding the issue.

• Keep all copies of physical letters and documents sent to you. 

• Keep track of any expenditures you incur while fighting the scammer as these may be recovered in court if the scammer is caught. 

If an account’s login credentials have been compromised

This can happen either through giving the scammer login access or through the many data breaches that hit the Internet every year. It doesn’t matter how the login credentials got out there because the answer to the problem is the same. Let’s go through the steps

If the hacker or scammer hasn’t logged into your account yet

This one is easy, change your password as soon as you can. Every service on the Internet that has accounts has a change password function and that’s what you’ll use. 

We recommend using a strong password that isn’t close to what you had previously. If you want the strongest possible security, a random password generator grants the most comprehensive passwords that are the hardest to crack. 

You should also immediately enable two-factor authentication on any account that has it. This extra layer of security makes it much more difficult to access your accounts even if they have the password. 

While you’re at it, there’s a nifty online tool called Have I Been Pwned? that can help you see which accounts may be at risk. Simply go to the link above and enter your email address. You’ll get a list of websites. You should change your password at each website listed since the credentials are out in the wild. 

One more thing to note. If you reuse passwords — which many people do — you’ll also want to change your password on any account that uses the same password that you gave to the scammer or was revealed in a data breach. 

If the hacker or scammer has logged into your account

This is where things get difficult. If the scammer has taken your account and changed all of the information, it becomes very difficult to get that account back. 

There are multiple reasons for this. The first is that every website has a different approach on how to recover a lost or stolen account and the methods for each one differ. The FTC has a helpful list of the most popular websites on the Internet, including Facebook, Reddit, YouTube, Google, Instagram, and others. 

To start, the first thing you want to do is change your email password, assuming that isn’t the account that got hacked. If the scammer gets a hold of that alongside your social media account, it’s mostly game over. 

After that, you’ll want to contact support for the service and do everything you can to get your account back. Anecdotally, this appears to be hit or miss with some folks getting their accounts back while others having to settle with making a new account and going at it from there. Those who were verified before being hacked — like Meta Verified — have a much larger success rate based on what we’ve seen. The only thing you can do is try your best as there is no quick and easy way to recover a stolen account

The reason is that your username and password are the credentials that you would use to prove the account is yours. If the scammer takes them over, changes the information, and adds things like two-factor authentication, then there’s virtually no way to resecure the account. 

Protect yourself in the future

Being scammed sucks, for lack of a better word. If you did become the victim of a scam, then you already know how bad it is. Hopefully, the above information helped out in some way but the best way to avoid being scammed is to protect yourself in advance. Here are some small reminders to keep yourself safe in the future. 

• Never give your password, ever. No legitimate business asks for your login credentials over the phone or chat. Ever. 

• Use strong and varied passwords. If a scammer gets your password to one thing and you use the same password everywhere, then the scammer has access to your entire digital life. 

• Always enable two-factor authentication along with account recovery options like a backup email or your phone number. Two-factor authentication makes account theft vastly more difficult. 

There are plenty of other tips and tricks for avoiding scams as well. One of my personal favorites is bypassing the email and going straight to the source. When I get an email telling me that my Amazon account is compromised, I don’t click any links in the email, I go straight to Amazon and contact support directly. 

Have a story to share about a scam or security breach that impacted you? Tell us about it. Email submissions@mashable.com with the subject line "Safety Net" or use this form. Someone from Mashable will get in touch.

Back in August 2022, password manager LastPass suffered a massive breach.

A still-unknown cyber criminal successfully targeted one of LastPass' four DevOps engineers who had access to the decryption keys for the cloud storage service. Using the engineer's stolen credentials, the hacker was able to infiltrate LastPass' systems undetected. This breach lasted for months and continued even after LastPass believed the threat had been contained.

The LastPass breach enabled the threat actor to obtain access to the "backup customer vault data." According to the company, encrypted data such as usernames and passwords as well as unencrypted data like website URLs were affected.

Breaches at large companies and online platforms are not new. In the case of the LastPass breach, hackers don't need to find some technical flaw to exploit either.

SEE ALSO: Have you been impacted by a scam or security breach?

By targeting the human beings who work at these companies, using tactics such as social engineering, every organization technically has a weakness that can be taken advantage of.

However, the LastPass breach was different. 

Hackers breached a password manager, a platform meant to protect your passwords and make it possible to use highly secure credentials for each of your logins. And it proved highly successful for the hackers.

Breaching password managers highly lucrative for hackers

Over the past few months, there have been a number of reports detailing how the LastPass breach appears to be linked to cryptocurrency-related heists. Hundreds of millions of dollars have allegedly been stolen allegedly as a result of the LastPass breach.

In one such incident, U.S. federal investigators claim that the LastPass breach seems to be the source of a cryptocurrency heist that resulted in $150 million being stolen from a crypto wallet last year. Authorities arrived at this conclusion after finding that the login credentials were stored in the victim's password manager. In addition, investigators did not find any evidence that the victim's devices were hacked.

And it appears that the worst is yet to come. 

Thanks to the hackers' success with the LastPass intrusion, password managers are now under attack. Hackers have realized that instead of wasting time breaking into one platform at a time when targeting a user, they can gain access to all of their login credentials if they can break into their target's password manager.

Here's a great example of how hackers are honing in on password managers and even getting creative in order to target them.

Just a year and a half after the LastPass breach, a threat actor was somehow able surpass Apple's usually stringent review process in order to convince the company to approve a fake LastPass app in the App Store. The LastPass imposter was basically a phishing app that attempted to fool LastPass users into believing it was the official app so they would input their login credentials, which would then go right to the bad actor who created it. It's unclear how many, if any, LastPass users were affected by this specific incident, but it shows what great lengths cyber criminals are going to in targeting password managers.

But, don't be fooled into thinking this is just about LastPass. Hackers are targeting password managers in general. A new report released last month from cybersecurity firm Picus Security found that 25 percent of all malware is now targeting password managers or other credential storage services. 

"Threat actors are leveraging sophisticated extraction methods...to obtain credentials that give attackers the keys to the kingdom," said Picus Security co-founder and VP of Picus Labs, Dr. Suleyman Ozarslan.

How to protect yourself from password manager breaches

There are a few lessons here going forward.

For one, we can no longer assume that just because you're using a password manager that your login credentials are somehow more secure. It might be more convenient to use, but breaches can still happen.

Users looking into password managers should should also prioritize encryption. Hackers were able to obtain plain-text website URLs in the LastPass hack. While this may not seem crucial on its own, it provides hackers with a blueprint basically. It shows what platforms you have accounts on, which can be an extremely important tool for a hacker looking to craft a phishing email.

It might not have been as easy to obtain the login credentials themselves, but they knew exactly where to go and how to target users in order to gain unauthorized access. In May 2024, LastPass learned from its mistakes and the company announced it was rolling out URL encryption.

But, the most important lesson is the importance of two-factor authentication. Yes, you may use a password manager in order to make the login process as easy as possible and two-factor authentication will require that you input credentials to get passed yet another layer of security. But, even if a hacker were to break into your password manager and steal your password, they still couldn't access your account unless they had access to your physical mobile device.

Also, in the event that your password manager is breached, you'll need to change your password. No, not just your master password. You should change your password for each and every platform with a login credential saved in your password manager.

Have a story to share about a scam or security breach that impacted you? Tell us about it. Email submissions@mashable.com with the subject line "Safety Net" or use this form. Someone from Mashable will get in touch.

Brad K. was — to put it mildly — exhausted. In May 2024, he was a brand-new father to a weeks-old baby, balancing the new responsibility with his role as a husband and dog dad. 

"They say the three biggest life stressors are having a kid, moving, and starting a new job," he said in an interview with Mashable. "And I did all three at the same time, within a month of one another."

Sleep deprived and facing one of life's most stress-inducing transitions, Brad, admittedly, wasn't his normal, clearheaded self when an unknown number called him after a long day of grocery and Home Depot runs, driving home with dinner for him and his wife. 

A man was on the other end, speaking in what Brad recognized as a regional accent. He explained, with the lack of urgency stereotypically associated with civil servants, that Brad had misfiled his taxes. He still owed more than $800 to the federal government and, the man explained, he needed to pay ASAP. 

SEE ALSO: Have you been impacted by a scam or security breach?

Brad wasn't clueless when it came to common scam strategies, though. He knew that people (including himself) are frequently inundated by robocalls asking for sketchy money payments, like gift card scams. He also knew that many scam calls come from unregulated (sometimes illegal) call centers overseas, and they can be easily spotted just using the speaker's accent. But this particular call didn't match up with any of those previous experiences — the man had personal information, like his address and wife's name, that would have been found on his tax records. And he sounded very legit. He was also very persistent. Brad had to pay today or risk a penalty or even jail time.

"They knew enough about me to talk intelligently about me," he said. "They knew a lot more than I even think is searchable online. I just thought, 'Oh my god. I have a new kid. I've got a wife. I provide a lot of the income for our household. I can't go to jail.'"

SEE ALSO: Get ready for these scams in 2025 Good digital hygiene is important but not always enough

Brad had practiced smart digital hygiene long before the call, too. On a prior vacation in Aruba, he spent a poolside afternoon setting up Google alerts for sites sharing his personal information rather than soaking up the tropical rays. He still gets the emails today. In high school, Brad worked a brief summer as a telemarketer — the second job he took as a teen after a failed attempt at twirling pizzas — and understood the tactics phone operators use to get people on the line and talking. Brad's late uncle had been defrauded of thousands of dollars after a scammer got a hold of his retirement log-in information, as well, so his family was familiar with the ways bad actors take advantage of technological illiteracy and confusion, especially among older Americans.

I just want other people to know that these scams are evolving. - Brad K.

And, adding to the complexity of the situation, Brad's own father was his accountant. Despite them knowing their way around a tax form, there was a chance one of them could have overlooked something. So he approved the payment to the "tax man," unwittingly giving him access to his bank account in the process.

What Brad didn't know at that moment, and what he would only learn weeks later from a friend, is that the IRS does not make personal calls. Ever. In fact, Brad now explains to anyone who cares to listen, the agency, by mandate, only conducts tax-related activities by mail — and using very specific certified mail at that. The IRS doesn't reach out over email or text or social media, and they never make home visits unless scheduled by the taxpayer, either.  

But it was too late. 

"It's a feeling that I can't even really describe. Almost like that roller coaster feeling where your stomach drops out from inside of you," he said. Brad immediately contacted his bank and closed the account, fortunate that the scammer hadn't taken out more money. He also froze his credit and filed a report with the FBI — part of a series of steps recommended by agencies like the Federal Trade Commission and the Social Security Administration. But after that there wasn't much he could do. The money couldn't be recovered. Brad was left adrift. 

Tax scams are shockingly common, data reveals

About 23 percent of people in the U.S. have been the victim, or know someone who was a victim, of a tax scam, according to a 2025 survey by McAfee. The majority of these scams are for less than $1,000, the report found, amounts that may slip by an individual's alertness. And the majority of victims are actually young adults (ages 18 to 24). 

That landscape is getting even more complex, as improved generative AI tech makes it easier to create realistically deceiving voice calls — Brad still doesn't know if the voice on the other end was a real person. Around 87 percent of survey respondents said they were concerned about AI's growing role in producing fraudulent content and facilitating scams. 

Additionally, many are increasingly worried about the security of personal information stored online. According to a recent report by TransUnion, researchers uncovered 970 data breaches in 2024 alone. These breaches, which exposed 640 million consumer records, provided bad actors with personally identifiable information required for various forms of tax fraud, including full Social Security numbers.

The common thread in all of these stories, the fantastical and the real, is that scams can happen to anyone.

Despite making up a large community, many scam victims are hesitant to share their stories, facing the shame and social stigma of being the target of an insidious financial scam. Brad has yet to tell his own family. Instead, he sends articles on victims of scams to the family group chat, hoping to subtly hint at his own experience. He's processed in his own way, with practical measures to regain his stolen money and save for the future. And he's speaking more publicly about the experience. But Brad hasn't found any spaces that offer emotional support for his experiences, either, online or in the real world — he's joined by others who face rippling emotional and mental effects of being the victim of a financial scam.

"I'm very embarrassed about it," he explained. "I try to be positive… I said, 'Okay, I'm gonna have to put this behind me. I've got so much else going on right now.'"

Anyone can be scammed

Popular culture often presents fraud as the result of a victim's negligence or ignorance, like in 2024's indie hit film Thelma, in which an elderly woman is defrauded of thousands of dollars after a scammer uses an audio deepfake to impersonate her grandson. She goes on a sympathetic, action-packed adventure to get her money back, and she succeeds despite the world believing she couldn't. That same year, The Cut financial advice columnist Charlotte Cowles published a personal story about being the victim of a financial scam that forced her into handing over a (now infamous) shoebox filled with $50,000. Many online admonished her apparent foolishness, others applauded her vulnerability — It didn't take long for it to become a meme about the cluelessness and audacity of the rich.

The average person, however, will not confront their scammer IRL, or post to thousands, if not millions, of sympathetic readers as part of their path toward processing the experience. The majority of scam victims are like Brad: Individuals who are targeted during vulnerable moments in their lives and are left without a clear path of where to go next, save for online forums or their loved ones. 

Still, the common thread in all of these stories, the fantastical and the real, is that scams can happen to anyone. They can happen to folks being left behind by technological acceleration or to society's financial experts. They can target individuals for thousands of dollars or a moderate sum of a couple hundred. Scams are non-discriminating, and the outcome often depends on something as simple as a misread number or just a few hours of sleep. 

"I really don't want other people to get scammed, " said Brad, when asked why he was now sharing his story out loud. "I just want other people to know that these scams are evolving." And, his story poses, with millions of people at risk, why isn't there more being done to help them?

Have a story to share about a scam or security breach that impacted you? Tell us about it. Email submissions@mashable.com with the subject line "Safety Net" or use this form. Someone from Mashable will get in touch.

Debbie Deem has spent the past four decades helping crime victims, including a stint as a victim specialist for the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

She's worked with people who've experienced assault, trafficking, and terrorism, among other horrific crimes. Retired since 2019, she's now a volunteer advocate and coach who focuses on what she describes as transnational fraud victim assistance.

Deem prefers the term "transnational fraud" over scam, because she believes it more accurately describes how organized international criminal networks and gangs use sophisticated methods in order to steal money and valuable data from their targets.

"Increasingly, there is recognition that anyone can be defrauded by these networks, just by employing differing psychological tactics," Deem says.

This context is often absent from discussions about digital financial crimes, and victims can pay an emotional price as a result, Deem says. Fraud victims seek help from law enforcement or adult protective services, or support from a loved one, clergy member, or therapist, but because of the stigma and blame associated with the crime may be treated as foolish or incompetent instead.

SEE ALSO: Have you been impacted by a scam or security breach?

In addition to feeling intense emotions like embarrassment, despair, and betrayal, the added isolation of judgement often only worsens a victim's mental health, Deem says.

Yet Deem helps victims and their families focus on their recovery, connecting them to as many resources as she can marshal. While the process of rebuilding their well-being may seem daunting, experts says fraud victims can incorporate a number of strategies to boost their confidence and restore their sense of purpose in life.

Figure out your needs

More than a third of Americans have been defrauded or scammed in the past year, according to the results of Bankrate's latest financial fraud survey. Among those victims, two in five people were robbed of their money. Thieves stole sensitive information as well.

Despite the prevalence of fraud, Deem says that some victims don't tell anyone what happened to them. They may feel ashamed or rightly worried about a loved one's critical response. In Deem's experience, family members of older victims sometimes look at their loved one differently, and decide that they're unable to take care of themselves because of cognitive issues.

But living in silence as a victim can also lead to challenges with getting practical help and emotional support. Victims may not realize they can report fraud to local law enforcement, state adult protective services, the Federal Trade Commission, and the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center. They might be less inclined to use services like AARP's Fraud Watch Network, which hosts a hotline that offers tips for avoiding scams and what steps to take if you've been victimized.

SEE ALSO: Get ready for these scams in 2025

Deem says that every victim has different needs in their recovery. For people who've been defrauded by an imposter who posed as someone trustworthy, like a law enforcement officer or love interest, the sense of betrayal and subsequent paranoia can run deep.

Often, if the scheme was designed around frequent, even daily, engagement with the imposter, a victim will need help identifying how that relationship was fulfilling so that they can find something else to replicate it.

Once they feel ready, some victims decide to receive training in order to support victims who are just coming to terms with the fraud they experienced. Others find renewed life purpose in new activities or hobbies that make them feel useful or special.

"The most critical thing and the hardest thing...is what to replace that behavior, relationship, or reason to get up in the morning [with]," Deem says.

Don't blame yourself

Anyone can be the victim of fraud, says Dr. Anthony Pratkanis a professor emeritus of psychology at the University of California at Santa Cruz.

Pratkanis has conducted extensive research on scammers and victims. He's never identified a victim profile, which he believes is because criminals who practice fraud use social influence as a key weapon.

To a bystander, the fraud may often seem obvious. But a criminal's skills of deception and persuasion, for example, can be so good that they're able to convincingly play a new Facebook friend or trustworthy investment counselor for the only audience that matters: the victim.

"Everything is designed to make it so you can't tell," Pratkanis says. "That's probably the single most difficult thing about fighting fraud."

Plus, people receive a barrage of daily fraudulent messages, comments, emails and other communications designed to draw in victims, making it hard — and exhausting — to remain in a constant state of skepticism and hyper-vigilance.

Reframe negative thoughts

Fraud victims often think negatively about themselves after they've been deceived.

But Asia Schmidt, a licensed clinical addiction specialist, says it's important for victims to normalize their experience. Instead of branding themselves stupid, for example, victims should remember that they're human, and that someone took advantage of them by preying on their emotions.

In general, reframing negative thoughts about their aptitude or character can be powerful. Schmidt, who is also the coach operations team lead for the AI-powered coach platform Wysa, encourages victims to take a compassionate approach by treating themselves like they would a friend.

"Often times we are harder on ourselves than we are on others," Schmidt says. "Giving ourselves that same compassion is definitely essential."

Seek peer and professional support

Experts agree that it's important for victims to talk about their experience, but note that victims benefit most when their conversation partner can demonstrate understanding and empathy.

The AARP Fraud Victim Support Group program tries to offer this by hosting free virtual meetings run by trained facilitators. FightCyberCrime.org also offers recovery groups specifically for victims of so-called romance scams.

Amy Nofziger, director of fraud victim support for AARP's Fraud Watch Network, says that many victims come to their first meeting feeling quite alone. Nofziger says that she's noticed participants' tense posture relax once they realize they're amongst people who know what they've endured.

Some victims may want to seek professional mental health support too. Deem says it's important to vet potential therapists by asking how they treat fraud victims. Unfortunately, she notes, some clinicians may believe stigmatizing myths about who can be deceived by fraud.

High-quality chatbot platforms, which have been designed specifically by psychologists to support a user's well-being, could be a valuable option for someone who can't or doesn't want to talk to a therapist. Such a tool might be useful when challenging emotions strike at inconvenient times, like the middle of the night.

Deem says that may be of particular interest to younger victims, but she would want any conversations about their experience to happen on trusted platforms that are frequently updated, reviewed by humans, and built with monitoring and intervention for comments related to suicide and re-victimization.

Deem adds that, regardless of where they take place, conversations about their experience shouldn't feel generic.

In AARP Fraud Victim Support Groups meetings, for example, people often express frustration and anger over not only being digitally robbed but also losing their sense of security and faith in strangers. Eventually, many victims recover, particularly after they've been able to reclaim normalcy in their daily lives.

"There is anger that these scams and these crimes are happening, and that someone targeted you," Nofziger says. "But then...eventually you hear peace."

Have a story to share about a scam or security breach that impacted you? Tell us about it. Email submissions@mashable.com with the subject line "Safety Net" or use this form. Someone from Mashable will get in touch.

In an unspoken sort of way, Roomba has been crowned "the best" robot vacuum simply because it's the most established brand in the market. But Shark has always had competitive street cred when it comes to vacuums, and its newest rounds of robot vacuums finally make Shark a force to be reckoned with among Roombas and Roborocks.

Having personally tested the top bots from Shark, iRobot, and the other big players, I picked the three best Shark robot vacuums to buy in 2025.

Are Shark robot vacuums as good as Roomba?

The short answer? It's complicated. That's not the definitive one-word answer you were hoping for, but making an unequivocal call between the two brands just wouldn't make sense. Both vacuum brands are constantly improving their product lineups and introducing new features. Both brands have several options with mopping, smart room mapping, and automatic emptying, including vacs that can do all three or offer some mix-and-match combo of those features.

So, where does Shark outperform the best Roombas? While Shark has way fewer options to choose from after iRobot randomly overhauled its Roomba lineup in March 2025, Sharks are more likely to be a bang for your buck than Roombas. Shark consistently puts out more budget-friendly robot vacuums, often without skimping on the most crucial features. If you were capping yourself at $300, the $300 Shark vacuum is going to be more competent than the $300 Roomba (unless you're finding a premium Roomba on sale for that price).

SEE ALSO: Shark vs. Roomba: Comparing top-rated robot vacuum lineups

Admittedly, Shark takes a little longer to roll out new features and doesn't have product drops very often. (For instance, it was late to self-emptying, self-washing, and self-drying compared to iRobot — and everyone else, for that matter.) But when Shark does release a model with new in-demand features, it's typically at a much more digestible price than the competition. Even Shark's most premium robot vacuum, the Shark PowerDetect 2-in-1 with NeverTouch Pro Base, debuted at around $400 less than the most premium Roomba, the Roomba Combo 10 Max + AutoWash Dock, despite them being nearly identical in capabilities.

Plus, Shark vacuums also go on sale throughout the year, even when it's not Black Friday or Prime Day. So, don't take the prices for the Shark vacuums below too seriously — I've noted the most common sale price for each vac in "The Good" section.

Shark really shines at spot cleaning but has one major blind spot

Sometimes, there's an unexpected mess that you want to clean without messing around with a map on the app. In those cases, Shark Matrix robot vacuums make spot cleaning much easier than Roombas do. Setting a zone for a one-time clean in the Shark app is as easy as dragging a square in the designated spot cleaning tab, compared to having to create and name an official cleaning zone in the iRobot app. Most modern Shark robot vacuums also have a physical cleaning button if you want to pick the robot up and place it in the right area — an underrated feature that modern Roombas completely skip.

On the other hand, Shark's one big blind spot — literally — is small obstacle avoidance technology. While Roombas at several price points can steer clear of phone chargers, cords, socks, and pet waste, Shark hasn't mastered this coveted skill yet.

SEE ALSO: I've tested 20+ robot vacuums and these are the best for every budget in 2025

After testing Shark robot vacuums in my own home — as well as comparing them to robot vacs from iRobot, Roborock, Eufy, and others that I've put through the same standardized obstacle course. Based on my home testing, here are the three best Shark robot vacuums you can buy in 2025:

SAVE $70: As of April 1, the Beats Studio Buds+ are on sale for $99.95 at Amazon. That's a saving of 41% on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Beats Beats Studio Buds+ $99.95 at Amazon
$169.95 Save $70.00 Get Deal

The Amazon Spring Sale is over, but you can still bag a last-minute bargain on Beats Studio Buds+. As of April 1, these popular earbuds are reduced to just $99.95 at Amazon. Saving you $70, this is the biggest discount on these earbuds we've seen.

One of our favorite features of these earbuds is the two listening modes: Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Transparency mode. Transparency mode allows you to listen to your music or podcasts while still being able to hear noise around you, such as cars, bikes, or other loud noises. This is also ideal for runners who want to remain safe and aware of their surroundings but also need good music to keep them motivated.

SEE ALSO: The Google Pixel 9 is still at its lowest price this year in the Amazon Spring Sale

Like most Beats earbuds, these are designed with comfort in mind. They come with three soft ear tip sizes for a secure and comfortable fit. They also boast a nine-hour battery life, with an additional 36 hours provided by the charging case. And if you take your earbuds on the go, these are IPX4-rated sweat- and water-resistant earbuds, so there's more protection for strenuous use or any accidental mishaps.

Head to Amazon now to grab this great deal.

SAVE $200: As of April 1, the Google Pixel 9 is on sale for $699 at Amazon. That's a 22% saving on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Google Google Pixel 9 $699 at Amazon
$899 Save $200 Get Deal

Amazon's Big Spring Sale is over, but there are still plenty of discounts to be found. There's a lot to consider, but we really love this latest deal on the Google Pixel 9. It's a great all-rounder — just check out our review to see what we thought.

As of April 1, you can find this model at Amazon for 22% off, now just $699. This deal is for the 256GB option in obsidian, porcelain, peony, and wintergreen. This is also the lowest price it has been so far this year.

SEE ALSO: The best Amazon Spring Sale deal on Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones is still live

This smartphone includes a 6.3-inch OLED display with vibrant colors as well as the latest Google Tensor chip for fast, non-laggy performance. It has dual rear cameras to take incredible pictures, both in bright and low light.

This model also features Gemini, Google's next-generation AI technology. It offers assistance with tools including advanced photo editing such as Magic Eraser and Face Unblur, enhanced voice recognition for dictation, and Google Assistant capabilities. It also uses real-time translation to allow for seamless language support in messaging or live conversations, and it even powers predictive text.

Head to Amazon to upgrade now.

Moving to a new city or working at a new job where you don't know anybody can seriously be depressing, especially if you're already introverted as it is. What are you supposed to do? Sit at the bar by yourself? And talk to strangers?

Then comes the lightbulb idea: You can make friends online! If online dating is so popular and successful, there's no way there aren't a few legit sites where you can make adult friends in your area with similar interests. Hmm, AdultFriendFinder.com sounds like the right ballpark.

So you're on your lunch break at work, type in the URL, and the next thing you know, you're frantically closing the tab and hoping nobody walked behind you for that split second.

Our point: AdultFriendFinder is not what it sounds like.

This site is for making adult "friends," not friends who are adults. Credit: Screenshot: AdultFriendFinder What is AdultFriendFinder?

AdultFriendFinder is one of the most well-known sites for finding quick sexual encounters, regular hookups, and literally anything else even remotely related to sex. The rowdy feed of matches, jumble of explicit photos, and stimulating calls-to-action offering all types of sex makes it heaven for anyone looking for a good time with no filter — and hell for someone who wouldn't be caught dead clicking on a "There are hot singles in your area" ad.

SEE ALSO: Tired of Pornhub? These raunchy dating sites are worthy alternatives.

Even if you're not using it for physical sex, it's always nice to have spank bank material in your back pocket. During the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, sexting, nudes, and Pornhub searches all saw a spike thanks to the vast number of people who started social distancing at home. Those who didn't want to risk quarantine sex or weren't finding people on their level of horniness on Tinder were pretty much guaranteed to get their rocks off somehow via AdultFriendFinder. And now, with Pornhub blocked in some states, you might be looking for sexy material elsewhere.

On AFF, you can find someone to sext via messaging or video chat (and plan to get it on IRL, if that's what you're looking for), watch live streams, or join niche group chat rooms. Is it worth $20-something per month? Depends on how much fishy content you're willing to overlook for a juicy sexting session.

We reached out to Kalyn Sanders, a business development executive at Friend Finder Networks, for updated AFF demographics. Right up there with Tinder's monthly flock, AdultFriendFinder snags the attention of over 55 million visits around the world per month, on average. (To whet your appetite upon signup, the main landing page flashes a few statistics, including "98,897,765 hot photos" and "3,495,277 connections," but we're not exactly sure what that means.) Most traffic originates from the United States, followed by visitors from the United Kingdom and Canada. Visits to AdultFriendFinder have dropped in the last year or so — it used to be the 25th most-visited adult site in the U.S. according to SimilarWeb, but as of May 2024, it was ranked 33rd, and as of April 2025, it was down to 67th. People are likely finding better alternatives.

SEE ALSO: Is Tinder Platinum worth it? I tried it for 3 months to find out.

Specifics on the demographic that most people care about — the gender ratio — can be hard to track down. Sanders told us that "there's a two to one ratio of single men versus categories like single women, couples, and groups." The split between men and women is an expected one for a lot of hookup-centric sites. At the end of the day, it's a paradise for straight men, hit-or-miss for straight women and LGBTQ men, and likely an actual hellscape for LGBTQ women.

AFF lets you identify as and search for a man, woman, a couple, or trans. Despite trying to be a sex-positive site with blog posts, groups, a sex academy, and more, its language for the LGBTQ community has historically been anything but inclusive or positive. Previously, the AFF sign-up page listed "TG/TV/TS" as the "trans" gender selection — we'll let you infer what those stand for. After reaching out to AdultFriendFinder about it, this language has improved some with more gender options that are appropriately labeled — though "trans" is still a separate selection from "man" or "woman," which feels more like fetishization than inclusivity.

There are a handful of sexual orientation options that go beyond straight or gay, so that is a positive for AFF. Although, for such a sex-positive site, it shouldn't be surprising to see a variety of sexual orientations present.

The sexual oreintation selection is a bit more inclusive than the "searching for" section. Credit: Screenshot: AdultFriendFinder Should you sign up for AdultFriendFinder?

If you're 100 percent over being grilled with relationship questions and the slow-and-steady pace on traditional dating sites like eharmony or Match, AdultFriendFinder is your golden ticket to instant communication. Registering takes about 30 seconds — it requires nothing from you aside from an email address, a username, a password, and an introduction. Your notifications will start pouring in even without adding any juicy info (because people see nothing wrong with hitting up a profile with a gray silhouette as a profile photo, apparently), but it's probably best to add a few photos and a detailed description — both to up your chances of flirtation or finding someone who shares a super-specific fantasy, and also to signal to other users that you're not a bot.

AdultFriendFinder features a personality questionnaire to personalize your profile and up your chances of finding a compatible match. Credit: Screenshot: AdultFriendFinder

After registering, there are a ton of ways to personalize your account (way more than you'd expect for a hookup site, honestly). The more you fill out, the more attractive your profile will be to new viewers. There are the basic physical appearance questions about eye and hair color, and since I identified as a woman, cup size was an option. (If you identify as a man, I'm sure you can guess what question they ask.)

SEE ALSO: How to unblock Xnxx porn for free

Many self-proclaimed hookup seekers can probably admit that they'd still like to hook up with someone they'd also like to grab a beer with, especially if they plan to see that person multiple times. Those people will appreciate that AFF gives a compatibility score with each user you come across: a metric that rates how well you might mesh with someone in the bedroom based on how you answered questions about what turns you on, whether you're dominant or submissive, and so on.

The site also features a personality test and a "My Kinks" form where you can select whether or not you're "curious about, into, or can't live without" a certain kink (e.g., anal, bondage, role play, etc.). It also lets you choose whether you're a voyeur, the giver, or the receiver.

One weird thing about the Personality Type test is that it asks several questions about whether or not you enjoy shopping at discount stores — not really sure what that's about. It also asks whether or not "a quiet time for prayer should be allowed in school." You can choose "strongly disagree, somewhat disagree, somewhat agree, or strongly agree."

Once you finish the personality test (20 questions), you can opt to have your Personality Type show up on your profile or have it hidden. It will also show you which personality types complement yours.

Credit: Screenshot: AdultFriendFinder Finding a match on AdultFriendFinder

Like a traditional dating site, AdultFriendFinder gives you a collage of potential matches and will let you know who's online or close distance-wise. These will be random right after you sign up, but you can opt to update your preferences to refine your results: Choose your preferred gender(s), age range, location and mile radius, race, sexual orientation, body type, and marital status.

You barely have to scroll before noticing that there's no shortage of nudity. Depending on whether you set your preferences to men, women, or both, you'll see all of that stuff up close, personal, swinging around, in action. You name it, it'll pop up.

AdultFriendFinder is basically like a PornHub that you can interact with. We probably don't have to say this, but AdultFriendFinder is NSFW and not safe to be on while kids are in the room. If you'd rather not see the site's raunchier side, it offers a "no nudity" option, but I still wouldn't trust this filter enough to be online in a family setting or at work. Some videos will be blurred out and read "Naughty video" until you upgrade to a Gold Membership, but trust me — you'll get to see a lot, even with the free version.

The message section is set up similarly to a Gmail account, and you can mark things as read or important just as you would on a real email. You'll receive some crude messages instantly (creeps on Tinder do the same thing), but some will be genuinely friendly.

SEE ALSO: Tinder releases yet another feature to stop inappropriate messages AFF is not all bad

Once you get past the in-your-face sexplosion of naked profile pictures, horny AIM-era profile names, and explicit videos, there are actually an impressive number of resources to help make your experience as satisfying as possible. Some will cost money even outside of the paid subscription, which is kind of dumb.

Aside from the NSFW content, the website is relatively straightforward (albeit ugly). Every feature is advertised in big letters, notifications are displayed clearly with labels, and you don't really have to click around to find anything. This makes it super accessible for users of all ages, even those who aren't tech-savvy and can't even figure out Facebook. Buttons are all over the place, but you figure it out after messing around for a few minutes.

Activities range from direct messaging, sending virtual gifts and tips, watching live videos of people in your feed, joining adult chat rooms that can get very niche, or entering photo contests.

AdultFriendFinder is like a PornHub that you can interact with.

Think of AdultFriendFinder as the dating site version of New York City — it never sleeps. You'll find people who work the regular 9 to 5, people who work the night shift, and people in other time zones, so it's nearly impossible to log on and not have people to talk to. You know, like that booty call who's always awake when you text them.

Or at least that used to be the case... 10 years ago. What was once a hot site that a few Reddit users were quick to hype up is now one of the dating sites that Reddit users can't help but diss — in the few instances that AFF is even being discussed at all. It's notable that, on a site where online dating is such a mammoth topic of discussion, AdultFriendFinder has rarely been mentioned in a positive light since the early 2010s. The Reddit community is diverse and open-minded; if a dating site exists, someone on Reddit has used it and has an opinion. When an innocent soul does ask if it's legit, AFF usually gets dragged for sketchy pricing and being riddled with bots.

However, some Reddit members have praised AFF as a site for men meeting men. Even so, the site's still buggy and isn't exactly great for meeting real people who aren't, as one Reddit user so eloquently put it, "busted and unstable."

SEE ALSO: Is Bumble Premium worth it? I tried it for 2 months to find out. Paid memberships are where things get... interesting

You can do a decent amount of exploring without paying a cent: Limited messaging and emailing, visit and like most profiles, and enter some chat rooms. But just a few clicks on AdultFriendFinder can send you deep down the rabbit hole, and a lot of that juicier hidden content can only be unlocked with a paid membership (called the Gold membership) or by earning points.

Points are AdultFriendFinder's non-monetary currency. If you use the free version, you'll have to earn points through on-site activity to unlock stuff that's exclusive to paying members. It's kind of like a game, with points acting like dollar bills at the strip club.

A Gold membership is pretty much the standard if you're a guy looking for girls. While researching on Reddit, we found a few women who said they wouldn't meet a guy unless he's a Gold member. A Gold membership puts a little bit more credibility behind someone's profile and makes the whole encounter feel a bit safer. It's easier to believe that someone's a real person if they're a paying, active member of the site, and it's nice to know that they're taking it slightly seriously. Plus, if you see a picture or profile that looks like it's 10 years old, it really might be — there are a ton of non-active, non-paying profiles from old members and escorts still lingering.

AdultFriendFinder also gives members the option to confirm their identity with ConfirmID. If you do this, the site promises to give you two weeks of Gold for free. The ConfirmID works by entering your legal first and last name, home address, gender, and date of birth and uploading a copy of your driver's license, passport, or other government-issued ID.

If you spend more quality time on the site than expected, becoming a paid member is definitely something to consider. Once you're paying, you basically become royalty on the site: Your profile will appear way higher in searches, you can use the most advanced searches, unlock profiles with private photo albums, check out video profiles, and message to your heart's content. A general rule is that increased involvement and payment on your end generally equals more success on the website, as your constant activity and heightened searchability make it easier for others to find you.

AdultFriendFinder pricing

Prices for a Gold membership fluctuate but generally get cheaper the longer your subscription is: Get one month for $27.95, three months for $20.95 per month ($62.82 total), or 12 months for $14.95 per month ($179.40 total). The three-month membership is billed quarterly, while the 12-month membership is billed annually. With a Gold membership, free members cannot contact you, but they can still see your profile.

In addition to the Gold membership, AdultFriendFinder also offers Voyeur (enhanced profile gallery and hi-res member videos viewing) at $14.99 per month, Interaction (enhanced member-to-member interaction) at $14.99 per month, Chat Plus (enhanced direct member-to-member communication) at $9.99 per month, and Advanced Search and Highlight at $4.99 per month.

This is the pricing at the time of publishing, but according to AdultFriendFinder, pricing is subject to change.

Credit: Screenshot: AdultFriendFinder Good for: Very open-minded people looking to blow off steam

Stating the obvious, AdultFriendFinder is a space for people who want to bang with no strings attached, people who are in a sexual rut, people who are tired of porn, and people who find sites like eharmony boring. Getting to know someone for weeks before meeting up can be exhausting, and sometimes, you want to skip the small talk and do the dirty with a random. It's gonna get kinky out there, and that's great for those who are dying to blow off steam and want someone who will respond well to a brusque, sexy message.

People are so active on this site that it's impossible not to feel desired. You'll probably get a flood of message notifications, and once you come across your first legit suitor, you'll start to loosen up. Even if you're left on read a few times, you'll learn which opening lines and flirty comments work and which don't. But since the site is aimed toward casual sex and encounters and not serious relationships, the whole rejection thing isn't nearly as prevalent.

As with all dating sites, catfishing is a big buzzkill. Your chances of being pursued are way higher if you have a lot of pictures of the same person (AKA you), videos, and a genuine profile that lets people know they're not dealing with something sketchy. Even if you've had bad luck with online dating in the past, AdultFriendFinder is the place to be honest.

SEE ALSO: What is consensual non-monogamy? Bad for: People looking for a real relationship and the entire socially conscious community

You know those warnings that thrill rides at amusement parks are required to put up that tell people who get dizzy easily or have heart problems to not get on the ride? AdultFriendFinder could use something like that. This site is not for the faint of heart — if you're a cynic, conservative by any means, get sketched out easily, or aren't a fan of dick pics, you'll probably hate it. Similarly, if you appreciate a well-crafted, aesthetically pleasing website that feels safe — no matter how badly you want to have sex — one glance at the landing page likely signals that it's not for you.

AdultFriendFinder is not the place to be if you're trying to make friends unless "with benefits" is tacked onto the end. Every inch of the site screams "this website is used to have sex," and you should really listen to that.

As illustrated by the recent flood of artsy activism guides on Instagram, it's clear what content appeals to young people on the internet: Something aesthetically pleasing, sharable, and digestible. The "sharable" part doesn't totally apply to online dating, but apps like Hinge and OkCupid closely follow this design trend by limiting the number of words (and ads) in each tab, steering clear of endless scrolling, and ensuring that important info isn't cluttered with flashing clickbait.

For instance, Pure is a modern, no-strings-attached hookup app that appeals to your horny side with a single, witty statement about sex rather than bombarding you with boobs and "Have sex in NYC now!" claims. Anyone older than a millennial may be totally used to this pop-up-ridden layout, which seemed to be popular in the early 2000s — but for younger folks, AFF's chaotic approach is way too reminiscent of Omegle.

AFF could do so much more to make people take it seriously

The entire website looks like an ad about hot MILFs that pops up when you're illegally streaming a movie. Seriously, it's bad. Even though the AFF website is technically legit, the pictures, word choice, and exclamation points everywhere scream "scam." No, AdultFriendFinder, "98,897,765 Hot Photos" is not the way to make potential new users trust you.

We're not knocking a quick hookup or no-strings-attached relations. This isn't about morals. Genitals are quite literally in your face from the moment you make an account, and that's just not cute. There are chiller ways to go about insinuating that this is a hookup website without feeling like you're trapped in a sex dungeon with strangers.

I could not get past the fact that the entire site looks like it's about to invite five viruses to your computer. We're talking terrible graphics that look like they were made on Microsoft Paint and pictures of women who look like they're from Pornhub in 2007. (That's when AdultFriendFinder was officially sold and rebranded from its original parent company.) Reddit user Snoo53279 summed it up in a comment from July 2020: "The people on AFF are definitely real, but there is a huge smattering of bots that also get in the way so it can be a bit of a PITA to use." If they're not bots, they could be men posing as a couple to seem less threatening.

The parade of women on the landing page is questionable for two reasons. This shouldn't even need to be clarified, but not everyone is looking for a woman. At the least, the advertising isn't inclusive — but this crosses into fetishization territory. The cherry on top is that the women in the photos (unsurprisingly) probably aren't even members of the site, according to a disclaimer at the bottom of the landing page.

SEE ALSO: What is cockfishing? Why some men lie about their size on dating apps.

AdultFriendFinder's overall outdated vibe goes past an aesthetic annoyance — it's downright problematic at times. The lack of inclusivity for the LGBTQ+ community is nearly unforgivable, and we'd be scared to see some of the related rhetoric that AFF users feel comfortable spewing. Without even a dash of social awareness, it's hard to see how anyone who's not an out-of-touch straight cis man would feel comfortable on this site.

Attempting to navigate the shoddy design might be enough to smother your horniness. Three main issues can make the site borderline unusable: It looks shady as hell, an alarming portion of the user base is made up of bots and spam accounts, and the user interface itself is outdated and rife with bugs.

Other Reddit users mention that the desktop web version won't even load for them at random times — an especially frustrating roadblock for people who want to end their membership and stop monthly charges. A solution to the laggy web version might be to clear your cache or use the smartphone app, but your experience probably won't improve. AFF's mobile page doesn't even mention an Android app, and the link to the iPhone app brings up a "not available" pop-up in the App Store. For a site that claims to have over 50 million visitors each month, the lack of accessibility to a smartphone app is just plain odd — especially in 2023.

Adding to the sketchiness, a network hack in 2016 exposed around 412 million accounts, including "deleted" accounts that weren't actually deleted from the database. If this is enough reason for you to fall back on Tinder for finding a friend with benefits, we don't blame you. Signing up with a burner email and avoiding using your real name as a username are wise moves (pick a naughty word and add 69 to the end, IDK), though keeping your personal information private is hard when credit cards are involved.

In 2007, AFF was involved in a lawsuit with the FTC over allegations that the site used malware to send explicit pop-up ads to computers owned by people who hadn't signed up for the service. Though we haven't seen reports like this recently, so we're hoping those ridiculous ads you see are at least confined to people who actually use the site.

The alternatives to AdultFriendFinder

Surprisingly, AdultFriendFinder feels much more legit than its competitors. While other hookup sites like AdultFriendFinder have names like FreeSnapMilfs.com, Fuckswipe.com, and Instabang.com, AdultFriendFinder will be the one you'd hate showing up in your Google search history the least. Most have the same general idea: to find sexual partners, have cybersex, etc., but with names like those, the authenticity is way too questionable. AdultFriendFinder boasts a much larger audience and has built credibility in a Tinder-saturated market where these blunt, friskier competitors may have trouble gaining trust.

SEE ALSO: Best hookup apps and dating sites to find casual sex with no strings attached

No matter how in the mood you are, your hungry eyes may not be able to look past AFF's heinous interface. We mentioned Pure earlier. The aesthetically pleasing, hella-millennial UX design is simply more palatable than AFF and the blueprint of what a modern hookup app should be. Kind of like a Snapchat for sex; your uploaded selfies, personal info, and conversations will self-destruct every 60 minutes. The app will send the hookup version of an Uber request to anyone close and ready to rumble, and you can choose what information to disclose from there.

Remember when we said AdultFriendFinder would be a nightmare for gay and bi women? Feeld is our favorite alternative app dedicated to singles and couples looking for threesomes, foursomes, or however many people you want — minus the unicorn hunting and rampant fetishization that many non-hetero, non-monogamous people face on traditional hookup sites and apps. Feeld went through a slight disaster of a rebrand and update in late 2023 that had us reevaluating its place among our recommendations due to bugs and location-related safety concerns. Feeld has since told Mashable that locations shared were not users' current exact locations, rather the name of the city, town, or borough.

The final verdict: Is AdultFriendFinder worth it?

AdultFriendFinder is a low-pressure way to find a friends-with-benefits situation without insulting anyone. Everyone is pretty much there for the same reason — and though it'll feel pretty unorthodox if you've only ever used Tinder to scope this type of thing out, AFF's blunt advertising at least means you won't have to explain that you're not looking for a relationship. It's niche-friendly, well-populated, and has a ton of interactive outlets to indulge your primal urges.

But that freedom comes with a price — the price is feeling like one of those people who fall for the ads that pop up before a free Pornhub video. It's not that a site dedicated to sex and sexting is inherently scammy — it's that AdultFriendFinder drowns you with explicit photos on profiles that might not even be real people while asking you to pay for a subscription with every click.

Unfortunately, no matter how in the mood you are, some people aren't cut out for the nothing-left-to-the-imagination approach with grammar mistakes all over the place. It wants to be sex-positive so badly, but the language the site has used in reference to the trans community is the furthest thing from that.

The functionality and safety of the site and the mobile app aren't where they need to be in 2023. If security measures were tightened, graphics and photos were cleaned up to feel more relevant, and decision-makers behind the scenes were given a lesson in inclusivity and pronouns/identities, AdultFriendFinder could be a handy tool to find attachment-free hookups and connect with a community that's down for anything.

This isn't a dating or hookup site we would personally use, but if you're feeling brave, you can register for AdultFriendFinder here. Just don't try this at work.

Opens in a new window Credit: AdultFriendFinder AdultFriendFinder Learn More

SAVE $100: As of April 1, Bose QuietComfort Ultra noise-canceling headphones are available for $329 at Amazon. That’s $100 off the regular $429 price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose QuietComfort Ultra ANC Headphones $329 at Amazon
$429 Save $100 Get Deal

In my opinion, if your headphones don’t actively make your commute, your coworkers, or your existential dread disappear, they’re doing it wrong. Enter Bose QuietComfort Ultra, now down to $329 at Amazon — aka a full $100 off the usual $429 price. These are Bose’s top-tier headphones, and with this kind of discount, they’re practically daring you not to upgrade.

I tried to be chill about this price drop. I really did. But these headphones come with Bose Immersive Audio, which is basically spatial audio that doesn’t feel like a gimmick. CustomTune tech calibrates the sound specifically to your ears, which sounds like sci-fi but in reality just means your music slaps even harder.

SEE ALSO: Apple announces WWDC 2025 dates

You get three modes: Quiet, Aware, and Immersion. Immersion Mode pairs full noise cancellation with spatial audio, and let me tell you — it’s like being transported to your own private concert, minus the overpriced drinks and sticky floors. Calls sound crystal clear too, thanks to a mic that focuses on your voice and filters out background chaos.

• Price: $329 $429

• Retailer: Amazon

• Color: Black (also available in Lunar Blue, White Smoke, and more)

• Noise Cancellation: Quiet Mode, Aware Mode, and Immersion Mode with Bose Immersive Audio

• Audio Tech: CustomTune personalized sound

• Microphones: Enhanced voice clarity and background noise filtering

• Battery Life: Up to 24 hours (18 with Immersive Audio); 15-min charge = up to 2.5 hours

• Controls: Touch on earcups; motion-activated power

• Bluetooth: Version 5.3, 30-foot range

• App: Bose app for updates and customization

Comfort? Ridiculous. These things are plush, evenly balanced, and look way more expensive than they actually are right now. The 24-hour battery life (or 18 if you keep Immersive Audio on) means you’ll probably pass out before they do. And if you’re in a rush, a 15-minute charge gets you 2.5 hours of playtime.

There are touch controls, motion-powered on/off, and of course, the Bose app to tweak everything to your neurotic heart’s content. If you’ve been holding out for a serious upgrade, this $100 price cut is your green light.

SAVE $50: As of April 1, the 2024 Apple Mac Mini with the M4 chip is available for $549 at Amazon. That’s $50 off its usual $599 price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple 2024 Apple Mac Mini with the M4 chip $549 at Amazon
$599 Save $50 Get Deal

I’m not saying I’m ready to ditch my full-size desktop, but this new Mac Mini is definitely making me rethink how much desk real estate a computer actually needs. The 2024 Mac Mini with Apple’s new M4 chip is on sale for $549 at Amazon. That’s $50 off, and if you’ve been looking for a sleek, no-nonsense Mac to plug into your setup, this might be your sign.

This version comes with a 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU, so yes, it’s basically five inches of pure computing ego. Apple designed it to work seamlessly with Apple Intelligence, and while I’m not totally sure what that means yet, it sounds like my Mac might start ghostwriting my emails and I’m not mad about it.

SEE ALSO: Apple announces WWDC 2025 dates

I think what makes this model really appealing is its flexibility. It has front-facing USB-C ports (finally), Thunderbolt, HDMI, and Gigabit Ethernet in the back, and it somehow still looks like a clean Apple design dream. You can hook it up to your iPhone, answer FaceTime calls, or just paste something between devices like a tech wizard.

• Price: $549 $599

• Retailer: Amazon

• Processor: Apple M4 chip with 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU

• RAM: 16GB unified memory

• Storage: 256GB SSD

• Operating System: macOS

• Design: 5 x 5 inches, compact mini PC

• Ports: Thunderbolt, HDMI, Gigabit Ethernet, front-facing USB-C, headphone jack

• Compatibility: Works with iPhone, iPad, and Apple Intelligence

• Notable Features: Fast app performance, iPhone mirroring, seamless Apple ecosystem integration

And let’s be honest: macOS on the M4 chip absolutely flies. Apps like Adobe Creative Cloud and Microsoft 365 load up so quickly it almost feels rude. You’re getting 16GB of unified memory, a 256GB SSD, and a desktop that weighs less than your cat. If you’ve ever considered downsizing, now’s a good time to actually do it without sacrificing power.

SAVE $70: As of April 1, the Apple Watch Series 10 (GPS, 42mm) is available for $329 at Amazon. That’s $70 off the usual $399 price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch Series 10 (GPS, 42mm) $329 at Amazon
$399 Save $70 Get Deal

Look, I have no business browsing for a new smartwatch right now, but Amazon went ahead and knocked $70 off the Apple Watch Series 10, and now I’m fighting the urge to click “Buy Now” like it’s a competitive sport. This is Apple’s latest and greatest smartwatch, and at $329, it’s suddenly a lot harder to pretend I don’t need it.

I think what makes this deal stand out is that the Series 10 only recently came out, and it rarely sees discounts this steep. It's the GPS model with a 42mm jet black aluminium case and a slick black sport band. It runs watchOS, offers a 30% bigger display than older models, and still manages to be lighter and thinner — because of course it does.

SEE ALSO: Apple announces WWDC 2025 dates

In my opinion, the health tracking alone justifies the price. You can take ECG readings, track ovulation, get alerts for irregular heart rhythms, and even see if you're showing signs of sleep apnea. The Vitals app is basically a full-body audit, except it won’t shame you for skipping leg day.

If you’re active, you’ll love the workout metrics, water resistance, and even depth sensors for swimming. It also includes three free months of Apple Fitness+, so that subscription guilt hits later.

• Price: $329 $399

• Retailer: Amazon

• Display: 42mm Always-On Retina

• Case: Jet Black aluminium

• Band: Black Sport Band, S/M size

• Storage: 64GB

• Operating System: watchOS

• Fitness Features: ECG, Activity Rings, Vitals app, ovulation tracking, sleep apnea alerts

• Durability: Crack-resistant, IP6X dust resistant, 50m water resistance

• Battery: 80% charge in 30 minutes

• Connectivity: GPS, Bluetooth, WiFi

• Safety Features: Fall Detection, Crash Detection, Emergency SOS

The built-in safety features are no joke either. Fall Detection, Emergency SOS, and Crash Detection are all here. It’s basically a lifeguard for your wrist. Oh, and it charges up to 80% in 30 minutes, which is more than I can say for my own energy levels.

Is this a need? No. Is it a really, really good excuse to upgrade your current watch that’s been glitching since 2022? Absolutely.

That took a while, but it's finally real: Apple's AirPods Max over-the-ear headphones now support lossless audio.

Apple announced the upgrade in late March, and now the new firmware for the AirPods Max is out, adding support for lossless audio, as well as ultra-low latency audio, for AirPods Max.

The firmware that you want to get this upgrade is version 7E99, and you'll also need to update the device you're using as audio source (an iPhone, iPad, or Mac) to iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, or macOS Sequoia 15.4, respectively.

There's an important caveat here: The upgrade is only available for the USB-C version of AirPods Max. That's the latest version that came out last September; earlier versions with Apple's proprietary Lightning port aren't getting this upgrade.

SEE ALSO: Apple announces WWDC 2025 dates

Once you get the upgrade, the AirPods Max will support lossless audio up to 24-bit, 48 kHz quality. You'll also get ultra-low latency audio, a feature that musicians will be able to utilise to record and mix music while using the AirPods Max. Gamers will also benefit from ultra-low latency audio, as there should be no discernible delay between the audio they hear in their AirPods Max and the actual gameplay on screen.