Multi-link operation (MLO) is a new Wi-Fi 7 feature that lets your router use multiple frequency channels at the same time to send data to your devices, making your internet connection faster and more reliable. For someone who streams videos, joins video calls, or uses several devices at once, this means smoother performance and fewer frustrating slowdowns during peak internet use. Worth knowing: if your router has Wi-Fi 7 and supports MLO, it's generally safe to enable it in your settings, though the real benefit depends on whether your devices (like phones or laptops) also support this newer technology.
Hackers have found ways to break into older versions of Plex Media Server (the software many people use to store and watch their own movies and shows at home) and are actively installing malicious programs that either steal computing power to mine cryptocurrency or turn your device into a tool for hiding illegal internet activity. If you use Plex, this matters because an infected media server could slow down or damage your device, run up your electricity bill, or unknowingly help criminals hide their tracks online. You can protect yourself by checking Plex's website for the latest security update and installing it immediately, and Worth knowing: if you haven't updated Plex in several weeks, assume your version is vulnerable.
Hackers broke into OpenCode, a popular tool that helps programmers write code using artificial intelligence, and stole some users' security passwords that allow them to use AI services. If your account was affected, you could end up with unexpected charges on your AI service bills because hackers can use stolen keys to run expensive operations. Worth knowing: if you use OpenCode or similar coding tools, change your passwords and check your AI service bills for any unusual activity you didn't authorize.
Windows now comes with solid built-in protection called Defender that catches most threats without you paying extra, making expensive antivirus subscriptions unnecessary for many people. If you're doing everyday tasks like email, browsing, and online banking, the free protection that's already on your computer is usually enough to keep you safe. Worth knowing: stick with Windows Defender, keep your system updates turned on, and use common sense about what you click on—that combination protects most of us better than paid software would.
Privacy Badger, a popular tracker-blocking tool that millions already use, is now available for Safari on Mac computers (version 26.5 and higher). Most websites contain hidden tracking code that companies use to collect and sell your browsing information, often to data brokers who profit from knowing your habits—and Privacy Badger stops this from happening by blocking trackers before they can load. You can download Privacy Badger for free from the Safari Extensions menu if you want an extra layer of privacy beyond what Safari already provides.
About one in five Americans now regularly get their news from social media platforms like Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok instead of traditional news sources. This matters because social media feeds can mix real news with rumors, misleading information, or outright false stories—and it's often hard to tell the difference at a glance. Worth knowing: before sharing something you read on social media, take a moment to check if the story appears on established news websites, and be cautious about posts that seem designed to provoke strong emotions rather than inform.
Video doorbells have limits to how far away they can detect movement, and this distance varies depending on the model, lighting conditions, and even the size of what's moving. Knowing these limits matters because you might miss alerts from delivery drivers or visitors who stop just outside your doorbell's detection zone, leaving you unaware someone called. Worth knowing: when setting up your doorbell, test its detection range during different times of day and in various weather conditions, as darkness and rain can significantly reduce how far it can "see."
A hacker got into Florida's motor vehicle database in September 2026 using login information that a police department had stored insecurely, potentially stealing driver's license details and personal information from thousands of people. If your Florida driver's license information is from years ago—even if you've moved away—your data could be at risk since the state still has old records on file. You can check whether your information was compromised by emailing customerinquiry@flhsmv.gov, and if affected, you'll receive a letter offering free credit monitoring for a year.
Fiber internet uses super-thin glass cables to send data as pulses of light, while cable internet uses the same copper wires that once carried television signals to your home. Fiber is faster and more reliable, especially if multiple people in your household are streaming, video calling, or working online at the same time. Worth knowing: if fiber isn't available in your area yet, cable internet is still perfectly adequate for most everyday tasks like email, browsing, and video calls—you don't need to wait for it to upgrade.
Some people are so frustrated with ads, tracking, and slow menus on their smart TVs that they're now using artificial intelligence tools to remove unwanted software and simplify their viewing experience. Smart TVs have become cluttered with features that manufacturers use to watch what you watch and show you advertisements, which can make the device annoying to use. Worth knowing: if your TV feels sluggish or you're bothered by ads, you might ask a tech-savvy family member whether there are simpler alternatives available, or check if your TV's settings let you disable some tracking features yourself.
Safari on Apple computers now has access to Privacy Badger, a free tool that stops websites from secretly tracking your browsing habits and collecting data about you. Unlike Safari's built-in privacy features, Privacy Badger actually blocks tracking code from loading entirely, so companies can't follow you around the internet or sell information about your activities to data brokers. Worth knowing: if you use Safari on a Mac, you can download Privacy Badger free from the browser's extension store today, and it works best with Safari version 26.5 or newer.
Employers across Australia are using artificial intelligence and surveillance cameras to monitor what workers do throughout the day—tracking keystrokes, phone use, and even minor mistakes—often without telling staff they're being watched. For people in their 50s and beyond who may still be working or have family members in jobs, this matters because excessive monitoring can affect job security, stress levels, and the sense of trust in the workplace. Worth knowing: if you're currently employed, ask your HR department or manager directly what monitoring systems are in place where you work, as Australian laws are increasingly being reviewed to require employers to be transparent about these practices.
