If you’ve been using Microsoft Defender’s free VPN to browse the internet securely, you have until the end of the month to find a new one. Microsoft has confirmed that the Defender VPN service will officially shut down on February 28, 2025. This means the countdown is officially on for users  to find another VPN to protect online data.

Why Is Microsoft Removing the VPN Feature?

Simply put, not enough people were using the VPN, and Microsoft decided to focus on other security features instead. Microsoft believes that by shutting down the free VPN, they can invest in “other” security features. What these features are/will be has yet to be announced.

What Does This Mean for You?

If you’re using Microsoft Defender VPN, you don’t need to do anything if you’re on Windows, macOS, or iOS—your VPN access will simply stop working.

However, Android users will need to manually remove their VPN profile from their device. Here’s how:

1. Open your Settings app
2. Navigate to VPN
3. Tap on Microsoft Defender’s VPN profile and remove it

Why Should You Still Use a VPN?

Even though Microsoft is removing its VPN, using one is still a great way to protect your online privacy. A good VPN helps you:

• Keep your internet activity private from hackers and trackers
•  Secure your data on public Wi-Fi (great for coffee shops and airports)
• Access restricted websites and content from anywhere

Stay Secure and Confident

OptfinITy stays ahead of your organization’s security so you can focus on growing your business. If you have any questions or need help, reach out to us today: sales@optfinITy.com or 703-790-0400.

Starting in February, Microsoft is making a significant change to how you stay signed in to your account. Once this change goes into effect, you’ll automatically remain signed in to your Microsoft account unless you manually sign out or use a private browsing window. Here’s what you, as a regular user, need to know to stay secure and comfortable with this update.

What’s Changing?

Currently, when you sign in to a Microsoft account, you’re asked if you want to “Stay signed in” for a faster login the next time. Beginning next month, this prompt will disappear, and you’ll automatically stay signed in by default.

While this is convenient for personal devices, it’s something to watch out for – especially when using shared or public computers.

Why This Matters for You

Here’s what you can do to stay safe:

• Sign out every time: Make sure to click the “Sign Out” option when you’re done.
• Use private browsing: Private browsing (sometimes called incognito mode) automatically erases sign-in credentials and browsing data once you close the browser.

Steps to Keep Your Account Secure

Here are some easy ways to ensure your account remains safe:

1. Sign Out Remotely: If you forget to sign out on a public computer, don’t panic. You can remotely sign out of your account from all browsers and apps (except Xbox consoles). To do this:
   • Go to the Microsoft account security page.
   • Select “Sign out everywhere” and follow the steps.
2. Use Private Browsing: Browsers like Edge, Chrome, and Firefox all offer a private browsing option. This mode deletes all browsing activity, including logins, when you close the window.
3. Set Up Passkeys for Added Security: Microsoft recently introduced passkeys to make signing in safer and easier. Passkeys let you use your face, fingerprint, PIN, or a security key instead of a password. You can set this up by visiting this link.

Stay Secure and Confident

By following these tips, you can enjoy the convenience of staying signed in on personal devices while protecting yourself on shared computers. If you have any questions or need help, reach out to us today: sales@optfinITy.com or 703-790-0400.

Have you ever wondered how much personal data your phone collects about you, and who profits from it?

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton recently brought attention to a troubling issue. He filed a lawsuit accusing Allstate and its subsidiary, Arity, of unlawfully collecting and selling sensitive data from over 45 million Americans without their consent.

Let’s explore the details and discuss how you can protect yourself.

What’s Happening?

The lawsuit claims that Arity paid millions of dollars to mobile app developers to integrate tracking software into popular apps like Routely, Fuel Rewards, GasBuddy, and Life360. This software secretly gathers detailed information about users’ locations and movements. Allegedly, the collected data was sold to insurance companies, including Allstate, for various purposes.

The lawsuit seeks $10,000 per violation and demands that Allstate and Arity delete the data.

Why Should You Care?

This case raises significant concerns about how companies manage personal information. It’s not just about numbers on a screen; it’s about your privacy and safety. Location data reveals where you live and work, the events you attend, and your daily habits. Companies might use this information for advertising or sell it without your knowledge.

Even worse, if the data falls into the wrong hands, it could lead to stalking, identity theft, or other security breaches.

How to Protect Yourself

Although lawsuits like this aim to hold companies accountable, you can take proactive steps to safeguard your data:

• Review App Permissions: Regularly check the permissions you’ve granted to apps on your phone. Disable access to location data unless it’s absolutely necessary.
• Use Privacy Settings: Many phones and apps offer settings that limit data collection. Activate features like “Limit Ad Tracking” or “App Tracking Transparency.”
• Be Selective with Apps: Only download apps that have clear privacy policies and avoid those requesting excessive permissions.
• Stay Informed: Keep up with news about data privacy laws and your rights as a consumer.

Final Thoughts

The lawsuit against Allstate and Arity sheds light on the hidden methods companies use to collect and exploit your data. However, you can take control of your digital footprint. By understanding how your location data is used and adopting protective measures, you can safeguard your privacy in an increasingly connected world.

With cyber threats looming larger than ever in 2025, the U.S. government has launched a new initiative to keep your smart devices—and your personal data—safe from cyber threats.

With the new U.S Cyber Trust Mark, smart gadgets will be labeled to help you identify devices that are meeting security standards.

What’s the Cyber Trust Mark?

Think of the Cyber Trust Mark as a seal of approval for smart gadgets like TVs, fitness trackers, home cameras, and baby monitors. When you see this label, you know the device meets strict cybersecurity standards.

It’s like a safety net, protecting your devices from hackers while giving you peace of mind.

What Devices Need to Have for the Cyber Trust Mark

Products with this label come with:

• Strong, unique passwords to block unauthorized access.
• Automatic software updates to keep your device ahead of potential threats.
• Data protection tools to secure your personal information.
• Cyber threat detection features to catch problems before they escalate.

How the Cyber Trust Mark Makes Life Easier

Every Cyber Trust Mark will include a QR code. A quick scan gives you instant access to:

• Tips for setting up your device securely.
• Guidance on changing default passwords.
• Details about automatic updates and how to use them.
• Information on how long your device will receive support and updates.

Why This Matters for You

Do you know if your smart device will stay secure next year—or even next month? The Cyber Trust Mark helps you choose products that prioritize your safety, ensuring manufacturers provide the updates and support you need.

Let OptfinITy Handle Your Hardware

Unsure of how to keep your organization’s hardware secure?

Contact OptfinITy for a free cybersecurity consultation for your organization today! Just email info@optfinity.com or give us a call at 703-790-0400.

Dell is making significant changes to its product lineup by retiring well-known brands like XPS, Latitude, Inspiron, and Precision. These familiar names are being replaced with a simplified structure that categorizes devices into three main groups:

• Dell: General-purpose devices for casual use, like school, work, and entertainment.
• Dell Pro: Designed with professionals in mind, offering enhanced durability and productivity features.
• Dell Pro Max: High-end systems built for demanding tasks, featuring advanced GPUs and improved cooling.

This shift aims to streamline Dell’s offerings, but for users accustomed to the old branding, it might take some getting used to. Premium models in the new lineup are expected to carry on the XPS tradition of sleek design and portability, but under a new name.

What Users Need to Know

Dell claims the new structure will make it easier to identify the right device, but some users might find the naming conventions less intuitive. For example, the Base, Plus, and Premium subcategories within each line don’t immediately clarify the differences in features or target audiences.

If you’re looking for a durable laptop, Dell Pro models are advertised as being more resilient than competitors, with features like improved hinge cycles and quieter operation. However, these claims are based on Dell’s internal testing, so the actual user experience might vary.

Performance and AI Integration

The Pro Max line is geared towards users needing extra power for tasks like video editing or 3D modeling, thanks to advanced GPUs and enhanced thermal designs. Additionally, Dell is pushing AI features across its lineup, promoting them as tools to boost productivity and creativity.

Mixed Reactions

The retirement of beloved brands like XPS has left some long-time users questioning Dell’s decision. While the company argues that unified branding simplifies product selection, it may also obscure distinctions between devices aimed at casual users, professionals, and high-end enthusiasts.

The Bottom Line

While the company promises better organization and performance, the changes may confuse users familiar with the old product lines. As the new devices roll out, it remains to be seen whether this restructuring will resonate with everyday users or leave them longing for the simplicity and familiarity of the past.

Let OptfinITy Handle Your Hardware

Unsure of how to handle your organization’s hardware plan?

Contact OptfinITy and let us design a procurement and asset management solution for your organization today! Just email info@optfinity.com or give us a call at 703-790-0400 for a no obligation consultation.

Browser extensions enhance your online experience by making it smoother, faster, and more enjoyable. However, a recent attack highlighted the risks these tools can pose. Hackers targeted popular Chrome extensions, exposing over 600,000 users to the theft of personal information.

Here’s what happened and how to protect yourself.

What Happened?

Hackers tricked Chrome extension developers by sending fake emails designed to look like they came from Google. The emails claimed Google would remove the extensions from the Chrome Web Store unless the developers clicked a link to “fix” the issue.

After developers clicked the link, they unknowingly granted hackers access to their extensions. The hackers updated the extensions with malicious code and published them on the Chrome Web Store. Users who downloaded or updated these extensions faced risks of stolen information, including cookies and login details.

Why Does This Matter?

Browser extensions often require permissions to access your data, such as browsing history or login details. When hackers control an extension, they exploit these permissions to steal your information. Many people underestimate how much access their extensions have or how vulnerable they remain to attacks.

How to Stay Safe

Follow these steps to protect yourself:

• Be Wary of Emails: Avoid clicking links in emails claiming to be from Google or other companies unless you verify their legitimacy.
• Check Your Extensions: Review installed extensions in your browser’s settings. Remove any unused or unrecognized extensions.
• Limit Permissions: Scrutinize the permissions requested by extensions. Deny permissions that seem unnecessary.
• Keep Extensions Updated: Use extensions from trusted developers and ensure they receive regular updates.
• Use Security Software: Install tools that monitor your browser for malicious activity.

What to Do If You’ve Been Affected

If a compromised extension impacted you:

1. Remove it immediately.
2. Change your passwords, especially for accounts linked to the affected extension.
3. Monitor your accounts for unusual activity.

Let OptfinITy Support Your Organization

Take advantage of OptfinITy’s free cybersecurity consultation to address key security gaps. Our experts can help you design a robust and comprehensive cybersecurity strategy for the upcoming year.

Contact 703-790-0400 or sales@optfinity.com to schedule your complimentary, no-obligation consultation.

As a healthcare provider, you are entrusted with not only the health of your patients but also their most sensitive personal and medical information.

Unfortunately, cybercriminals are increasingly targeting healthcare organizations, exploiting vulnerabilities to steal data and disrupt care.

This growing threat is no longer just hypothetical—it’s a reality. That’s why the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is introducing updated regulations to bolster the protection of your patients’ sensitive data.

Healthcare Organizations Under Attack

Cyberattacks on healthcare organizations are on the rise, and the consequences are severe. These breaches don’t just involve data theft; they can result in delayed treatments, compromised care, and a loss of patient trust.

Hackers are aware that many healthcare systems are operating with outdated security measures, and they’re taking advantage of these gaps.

The New Rules: A Stronger Defense for Your Organization

In response, HHS is implementing updates to HIPAA that include:

• Encryption of health data: Encrypting personal and medical information ensures that, even if stolen, it becomes unreadable to cybercriminals.
• Stronger security measures: Enhanced security layers, including multifactor authentication, will help restrict unauthorized access to sensitive data.
• Improved network defenses: These updates will also reinforce systems to prevent cybercriminals from moving freely within networks.

These updates are designed not just to safeguard data, but to protect the integrity of care you provide, allowing healthcare organizations to focus on patient well-being rather than worrying about cyber threats.

What This Means for Healthcare Providers

Protecting patient data is more than a regulatory requirement—it’s a critical step in maintaining the trust of those you serve. Your patients’ safety and peace of mind should always be a top priority.

Ensure your medical practice runs smoothly and securely with OptfinITy’s expert IT support, tailored specifically for healthcare providers. Contact us today at 703-790-0400 to discover how our proactive, HIPAA-compliant services can enhance your practice’s efficiency and protect your data.