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Netflix didn't crash when it streamed two NFL games on Christmas. Even better for the NFL and Netflix: The streaming-only games got audiences that were only a bit smaller than a TV game. Streaming live sports used to be a novelty. Not anymore. Netflix passed two tests on Wednesday when it streamed live NFL football games for the first time in its history. Advertisement First: Netflix managed to stream the games around the world without widespread tech foul-ups that plagued its Mike Tyson-Jake Paul boxing exhibition/stunt last month. Second: Netflix managed to attract the kind of audience for the games that you'd expect from the NFL, which is continually the most popular thing on conventional TV. Advertisement The NFL and the streamer say that both of Wednesday's games — the Kansas City Chiefs vs. the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Baltimore Ravens vs. the Houston Texans — averaged around 24 million viewers in the US. That's a record for streaming NFL games in the country. (Those initial numbers may swell a bit once the NFL, Netflix, and Nielsen scour for additional viewers.) The biggest audience — around 27 million viewers — showed up for the "Beyoncé Bowl" — a halftime performance during the Ravens/Texans game, featuring, of course, Beyoncé. For comparison, last year, the NFL attracted an average of some 28 million US viewers for the two games it broadcast on Christmas Day, via conventional TV networks. (Netflix's numbers don't include viewers outside the US; it says it will report back on those on December 31. Netflix says the audience for the Tyson/Paul event peaked at 65 million worldwide and 38 million in the US.) Advertisement All of which means that when Netflix streams Christmas games again next year, and again in 2027, it won't seem like a novelty. It will just be the most popular sport on TV, delivered via a streaming service. This is what both Netflix and the NFL want, for slightly different reasons. The NFL is always looking for another outlet that will pay it top dollar for the right to show its games — Netflix paid the NFL a reported $150 million for this year's games — and Netflix wants high-profile live events as a way to boost its nascent ad business. Win-win. This is what the NFL has been finding every time it sells streaming rights to digital players over the years, including Yahoo, Twitter, Amazon, and Google. Advertisement While we are here, a couple other notes: While there was some discussion of Netflix trying to make its NFL coverage unique , I couldn't discern anything meaningfully different about the games from any others I've watched this year. Which, again, is the point: The NFL wants the product to look the same no matter where you see it. (And if there is a desire for something different on the part of fans, I have yet to discern it.) Netflix streaming NFL games for the first time is meaningful to the NFL, Netflix, and people who pay attention to the media business. But in my 100% unscientific poll of people in the real world, no one knew Netflix had the games. And when they found out, they didn't care, which makes sense: Neither game was particularly important, or suspenseful. But for Netflix and the NFL that wasn't the point.
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Travis Perkins plc ( OTCMKTS:TPRKY – Get Free Report ) was the target of a large increase in short interest in December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totalling 800 shares, an increase of 166.7% from the November 30th total of 300 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 16,700 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 0.0 days. Travis Perkins Stock Up 1.7 % Travis Perkins stock opened at $9.06 on Friday. Travis Perkins has a 12-month low of $8.73 and a 12-month high of $13.00. The firm’s fifty day moving average price is $10.05 and its 200 day moving average price is $10.96. Travis Perkins Company Profile ( Get Free Report ) Read More Receive News & Ratings for Travis Perkins Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Travis Perkins and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .Jerod Mayo shares thoughts on Vince Wilfork, Robert Kraft Hall of Fame candidaciesNetflix didn't crash when it streamed two NFL games on Christmas. Even better for the NFL and Netflix: The streaming-only games got audiences that were only a bit smaller than a TV game. Streaming live sports used to be a novelty. Not anymore. Netflix passed two tests on Wednesday when it streamed live NFL football games for the first time in its history. Advertisement First: Netflix managed to stream the games around the world without widespread tech foul-ups that plagued its Mike Tyson-Jake Paul boxing exhibition/stunt last month. Second: Netflix managed to attract the kind of audience for the games that you'd expect from the NFL, which is continually the most popular thing on conventional TV. Advertisement The NFL and the streamer say that both of Wednesday's games — the Kansas City Chiefs vs. the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Baltimore Ravens vs. the Houston Texans — averaged around 24 million viewers in the US. That's a record for streaming NFL games in the country. (Those initial numbers may swell a bit once the NFL, Netflix, and Nielsen scour for additional viewers.) The biggest audience — around 27 million viewers — showed up for the "Beyoncé Bowl" — a halftime performance during the Ravens/Texans game, featuring, of course, Beyoncé. For comparison, last year, the NFL attracted an average of some 28 million US viewers for the two games it broadcast on Christmas Day, via conventional TV networks. (Netflix's numbers don't include viewers outside the US; it says it will report back on those on December 31. Netflix says the audience for the Tyson/Paul event peaked at 65 million worldwide and 38 million in the US.) Advertisement All of which means that when Netflix streams Christmas games again next year, and again in 2027, it won't seem like a novelty. It will just be the most popular sport on TV, delivered via a streaming service. This is what both Netflix and the NFL want, for slightly different reasons. The NFL is always looking for another outlet that will pay it top dollar for the right to show its games — Netflix paid the NFL a reported $150 million for this year's games — and Netflix wants high-profile live events as a way to boost its nascent ad business. Win-win. This is what the NFL has been finding every time it sells streaming rights to digital players over the years, including Yahoo, Twitter, Amazon, and Google. Advertisement While we are here, a couple other notes: While there was some discussion of Netflix trying to make its NFL coverage unique , I couldn't discern anything meaningfully different about the games from any others I've watched this year. Which, again, is the point: The NFL wants the product to look the same no matter where you see it. (And if there is a desire for something different on the part of fans, I have yet to discern it.) Netflix streaming NFL games for the first time is meaningful to the NFL, Netflix, and people who pay attention to the media business. But in my 100% unscientific poll of people in the real world, no one knew Netflix had the games. And when they found out, they didn't care, which makes sense: Neither game was particularly important, or suspenseful. But for Netflix and the NFL that wasn't the point.Microsoft Flight Simulator (MSFS) 2024 is set to redefine aviation simulation, and at the forefront of this revolution is the introduction of the highly anticipated Airbus A350. This cutting-edge aircraft is renowned for its advanced technology in the real aviation world, and its digital twin promises to bring a new level of realism and innovation to the virtual skies. Unmatched Realism The A350 is a marvel of modern engineering known for its fuel efficiency and impressive range. MSFS 2024 developers have dedicated themselves to authentically replicating its intricate flight systems and aerodynamic performance. This commitment ensures that virtual pilots will experience unprecedented realism, from the handling dynamics to the nuances of its cockpit instrumentation. Advanced Technology Integration MSFS 2024 leverages new technologies to enhance every flight experience. The integration of real-time weather data, groundbreaking AI, and ultra-high-definition graphics allows the A350 to glide through breathtaking skies under realistic weather conditions. With a newly enhanced physics engine, the simulator promises to capture the essence of flying this iconic aircraft with unprecedented fidelity. A Look into the Future The inclusion of the A350 in MSFS 2024 sets the stage for an exciting future in flight simulation. This advancement hints at the potential for even more sophisticated aircraft models and tools, paving the way for a richer, more immersive experience. As technology continues to evolve, MSFS 2024 is poised to remain at the cutting edge, serving as a beacon for enthusiasts who yearn for the closest experience to real-world aviation from the comfort of their homes. Discover the Future of Aviation Simulation with MSFS 2024 Introduction to MSFS 2024 and the Airbus A350 Microsoft Flight Simulator (MSFS) 2024 is shaping up to be a landmark in the evolution of aviation simulation, particularly with the inclusion of the much-awaited Airbus A350. While the original excitement centers around this model’s cutting-edge features, several new elements and insights further enhance what MSFS 2024 has to offer to virtual pilots and aviation enthusiasts. Key Features and Innovations # Enhanced Real-Time Weather Simulation One of the most anticipated features in MSFS 2024 is its enhanced real-time weather simulation. Real-world data integration not only reproduces current weather conditions accurately but also allows for dynamic weather changes mid-flight. This innovation enables pilots to experience the challenges and beauties of flying under varied conditions, from thunderstorms to serene sunsets, giving a true-to-life experience. # Breakthroughs in Artificial Intelligence MSFS 2024 incorporates advanced AI systems to improve both air traffic control and aircraft behavior. The AI is designed to provide realistic interactions not only with live players but also with AI-controlled aircraft, offering a more authentic simulation of real-world aviation dynamics. This feature significantly elevates the learning and engagement aspects for users aiming to enhance their piloting skills beyond basics. # Cutting-Edge Graphics and Visuals With ultra-high-definition graphics, MSFS 2024 stands out for its visually stunning environments. Pilots can fly over impeccably rendered cities, landscapes, and natural wonders seized in breathtaking detail. This visual upgrade enhances the realism and immersion, likely making MSFS 2024 one of the most visually ambitious flight simulators to date. Predictions and Market Insights # Increased Demand for High-Performance Simulation PCs With the advanced graphics and processing requirements of MSFS 2024, there is an expected increase in demand for high-performance PCs and peripherals optimized for gaming and simulation. This trend may also stimulate market growth in the computer hardware industry, particularly for graphics cards, processors, and other gaming-centric components. # Expansion of Aviation Enthusiast Community MSFS 2024 promises to not only retain its current fanbase but also expand it, attracting new users interested in both casual flying experiences and serious flight training simulations. The realism and incredible attention to detail are expected to draw those who may have previously been uninterested in flight simulation. FAQs Q: What systems are required to run MSFS 2024 smoothly? A: While specific system requirements may vary, a high-performance PC with a powerful graphics card and substantial RAM is recommended for the best experience. Q: Can MSFS 2024 be used as an actual flight training tool? A: MSFS 2024 offers highly realistic simulation capabilities that can complement flight training, but it should not be considered a substitute for certified aviation training programs. Sustainability and Future Developments # Commitment to Sustainability In a nod towards environmental consciousness, MSFS 2024 developers have worked on optimizing energy usage within the game’s framework, reducing its overall computational footprint. This step aligns with broader trends in software development that prioritize sustainability. # Ongoing Updates and User Engagement MSFS 2024 plans to release periodic updates to incorporate new aircraft, scenarios, and technological advancements. The community is encouraged to provide feedback, ensuring the simulator evolves in line with user expectations and technological progress. Conclusion Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 continues to push the boundaries of aviation simulation with the introduction of the Airbus A350 and beyond. As this innovative software rolls out, both existing enthusiasts and newcomers can expect an unprecedented level of engagement, realism, and community interaction. Experience the skies like never before with the unparalleled immersion MSFS 2024 offers. For more information, visit the official website of Microsoft .
Netflix Japan subscribers top 10 million with shows garnering attentionNone
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A unique opportunity is being offered by the Pontotoc Technology Center for aspiring barbers to learn the skills and earn the certification needed to enter the thriving industry. The program caters to working adults and those with busy schedules, offering evening classes to help students achieve their career goals. The program will provide hands-on training with an expert instructor, preparing students to pass the state board licensure exam. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in barbering is projected to grow by 8% from 2022 to 2032. The new Barber program will begin January 28th and run through June 30th, 2026. Students can expect to complete their education and start working in under 18 months. Graduates of the program will be fully prepared to enjoy a rewarding career in this essential and creative industry. For more information about the Barber program (and to be notified when the application process opens), visit PontotocTech.edu/barber and fill out the form to request information. A representative from Pontotoc Technology Center will contact all potential applicants the first week of January with information about the next steps.
Rwandan players overseas who could be free agents in JanuaryJimmy Spithill introduces his new Red Bull Italy SailGP TeamIn a major breakthrough for Blue Origin, the space venture founded by Jeff Bezos, the Federal Aviation Administration has granted a commercial space launch license for its New Glenn rocket. This development paves the way for the company's entry into the fiercely competitive field of national security space missions. Blue Origin joins a select group that includes Elon Musk's SpaceX and Boeing-Lockheed joint venture United Launch Alliance, as contenders for crucial Department of Defense projects. The move represents a significant step forward for the company in securing a foothold in the lucrative market segment. The license affirms Blue Origin's readiness to challenge established leaders in the sector and reflects growing confidence in its capabilities to deliver on large-scale, government-backed space initiatives. (With inputs from agencies.)
WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump’s transition team on Tuesday signed an agreement to allow the Justice Department to conduct background checks on his nominees and appointees after a weeks-long delay. The step lets Trump transition aides and future administration staffers obtain security clearances before Inauguration Day to access classified information about ongoing government programs, an essential step for a smooth transiton of power. It also allows those nominees who are up for Senate confirmation to face the background checks lawmakers want before voting on them. Teams of investigators have been standing by to process clearances for Trump aides and advisers. “This agreement with the Department of Justice will ensure President Trump and his team are ready on Day 1 to begin enacting the America First Agenda that an overwhelming majority of our nation supported on Election Day,” said Susie Wiles, Trump’s designate to be White House chief of staff. Related Articles The announcement comes a week after the Trump transition team with the Biden White House to allow transition staff to coordinate with the existing federal workforce before taking office on Jan. 20. The White House agreement was supposed to have been signed by Oct. 1, according to the Presidential Transition Act, and the Biden White House had issued both public and private appeals for Trump’s team to sign on. Security clearances are required to access classified information, including on ongoing operations and threats to the nation, and the Biden White House and outside experts have emphasized to Trump’s team the importance of having cleared personnel before Inauguration Day so they could be fully briefed and ready to run the government. Republican Senators have also insisted on FBI background checks for Trump’s nominees before they face confirmation votes, as has been standard practice for decades. Lawmakers have been particularly interested in seeing the findings of reviews into Trump’s designated nominee for defense secretary, former Fox News host Pete Hegseth, and for Rep. Tulsi Gabbard to be director of national intelligence. “That’s why it’s so important that we have an FBI background check, a committee review of extensive questions and questionnaires, and a public hearing,” said. Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine on Monday. John Thune, the incoming Senate Republican leader, said the Trump team “understands there’s going to have to be a thorough vetting of all these nominees.”
LeBron James is going to have to make room for the NFL. Wednesday's doubleheader on Netflix set records as the most-streamed NFL games in U.S. history, with numbers nearly five times more than the NBA. The Baltimore Ravens' 31-2 victory over the Houston Texans averaged 24.3 million while Kansas City's 29-10 win at Pittsburgh averaged 24.1 according to early viewer figures released by Nielsen on Thursday. Nielsen also said there were 65 million U.S. viewers who tuned in for at least one minute of one of the two games. The NBA's five-game slate averaged about 5.25 million viewers per game across ABC, ESPN and its platforms, according to the league and Nielsen. “I love the NFL,” James said in his televised postgame interview Wednesday night. “But Christmas is our day.” While the NBA's Christmas lineup has its best viewer numbers in five years, the NFL has made Christmas one of its tentpole events during the regular season, joining Kickoff Weekend and Thanksgiving. “The numbers speak for themselves and LeBron can have his own view, and I’m sure more people will look at that because of this," said Hans Schroeder, the executive vice president of NFL Media. "But, you know, we’re focused on the NFL and we’re thrilled with the results this year with the Christmas on Netflix and we’re excited to continue to build that over the next couple of years.” Both NFL games surpassed the previous mark of 23 million for last season’s AFC wild-card game between the Miami Dolphins and Chiefs on Peacock. Viewership for Ravens-Texans peaked with the Beyoncé Bowl. The 20-minute halftime performance averaged over 27 million viewers. The viewer figures include the audience on Netflix, mobile viewership on NFL+ and those who tuned in on CBS stations in Pittsburgh, Kansas City, Baltimore and Houston. Global ratings and final U.S. numbers are expected to be available on Tuesday. The NFL's Christmas numbers decreased from last season, but not at the rate that usually happens when something goes from broadcast to streaming. Last year’s three games averaged 28.68 million viewers. The early afternoon contest between the Las Vegas Raiders and Chiefs led the way, averaging 29.48 million on CBS. Once global and Netflix's first-party data is released, both Christmas games should surpass 30 million. The NBA's lineup saw an 84% rise over 2023. One reason for the increase is that all five games were on ABC, compared to two last year. The Los Angeles Lakers’ 115-113 victory over the Golden State Warriors — a game pitting Olympic teammates LeBron James and Stephen Curry — averaged 7.76 million viewers and peaked with about 8.32 million viewers toward the end of the contest, the league said. Those numbers represent the most-watched NBA regular season game in five years. The NBA said all five Christmas games on its schedule — San Antonio at New York in Victor Wembanyama's holiday debut, Minnesota at Dallas, Philadelphia at Boston, Denver at Phoenix and Lakers-Warriors — saw year-over-year viewership increases. Wednesday's numbers pushed NBA viewership for the season across ESPN platforms to up 4% over last season. The league also saw more than 500 million video views on its social media platforms Wednesday, a new record. For the NBA, those are all good signs amid cries that NBA viewership is hurting. “Ratings are down a bit at beginning of the season. But cable television viewership is down double digits so far this year versus last year," NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said earlier this month. “You know, we’re almost at the inflection point where people are watching more programing on streaming than they are on traditional television. And it’s a reason why for our new television deals, which we enter into next year, every game is going to be available on a streaming service.” Part of that new package of television deals that the NBA is entering into next season also increases the number of regular season games broadcast on television from 15 to 75. AP NBA: https://www.apnews.com/hub/NBA
Trump’s “Border Czar” Says the Admin Will Bring Back Migrant Family Detention
MADRID (AP) — Getafe scored twice in three minutes midway through the second half to beat struggling Valladolid 2-0 and record only its second win in La Liga on Friday. The victory ended Getafe’s five-game winless run and lifted it into 15th place in the 20-team standings. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings. Get the latest sports news delivered right to your inbox six days a week.The Seattle Seahawks will enter a crucial end to the season without their top tailback. Brady Henderson of ESPN reported that the Seahawks had placed running back Kenneth Walker III on injured reserve, which means he is gone for at least four games. Walker exited Seattle's Week 16 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings with an ankle injury. He did not return in the 27-24 loss and has been listed as a non-participant in practice this week. This article will be updated soon to provide more information and analysis. For more from Bleacher Report on this topic and from around the sports world, check out our B/R app , homepage and social feeds—including Twitter , Instagram , Facebook and TikTok .
NEW YORK , Dec. 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Grid Dynamics Holdings Inc. (NASD: GDYN) will replace Revelyst Inc. (NYSE: GEAR) in the S&P SmallCap 600 effective prior to the opening of trading on Thursday, January 2 . Strategic Value Partners is acquiring Revelyst in a deal expected to close soon pending final conditions. Following is a summary of the change that will take place prior to the open of trading on the effective date: Effective Date Index Name Action Company Name Ticker GICS Sector Jan 2, 2025 S&P SmallCap 600 Addition Grid Dynamics Holdings GDYN Information Technology Jan 2, 2025 S&P SmallCap 600 Deletion Revelyst GEAR Consumer Discretionary For more information about S&P Dow Jones Indices, please visit www.spdji.com ABOUT S&P DOW JONES INDICES S&P Dow Jones Indices is the largest global resource for essential index-based concepts, data and research, and home to iconic financial market indicators, such as the S&P 500® and the Dow Jones Industrial Average®. More assets are invested in products based on our indices than products based on indices from any other provider in the world. Since Charles Dow invented the first index in 1884, S&P DJI has been innovating and developing indices across the spectrum of asset classes helping to define the way investors measure and trade the markets. S&P Dow Jones Indices is a division of S&P Global (NYSE: SPGI), which provides essential intelligence for individuals, companies, and governments to make decisions with confidence. For more information, visit www.spdji.com . FOR MORE INFORMATION: S&P Dow Jones Indices index_services@spglobal.com Media Inquiries spdji.comms@spglobal.com View original content: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/grid-dynamics-holdings-set-to-join-sp-smallcap-600-302339444.html SOURCE S&P Dow Jones Indices
How the AWM ‘Honours’ Those Who ServeWho Makes Bad Boy Tractors And Where Are They Built?Tech expert Kurt Knutsson says a VPN enhances online banking security by encrypting data and protecting privacy. Have you ever felt a little uneasy while browsing the internet, wondering who might be watching your online activities? Well, let me introduce you to a handy tool that can put your mind at ease: the virtual private network, or VPN. Whether you're working from home, streaming your favorite shows or just exploring the web, a VPN can help ensure that your data stays secure and your privacy intact. So, let’s dive into why having a VPN at home is a smart move. GET SECURITY ALERTS, EXPERT TIPS — SIGN UP FOR KURT’S NEWSLETTER — THE CYBERGUY REPORT HERE A VPN on a laptop. (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson) What is a VPN? A virtual private network, or VPN, encrypts your internet traffic and reroutes it through a server in a different location than your own. VPNs make it appear that you are connecting to the internet from whichever location the server is hosted in rather than your actual location. When you first connect to a network using a VPN, your device will establish a secure connection with the VPN server, and your device's IP address will appear as the VPN server, meaning that only your internet service provider will see that you're connecting to a VPN server. Normally, when you connect to a website, the website or any online services you visit can see your device's technical information, including location-sensitive data such as IP addresses. THE BEST VPNS FOR BROWSING THE WEB IN 2024 Why would you want a VPN at home? While your home internet connection is more secure than a public Wi-Fi connection , VPNs still provide a greater sense of privacy and access to content that might be restricted due to location. Here are 10 reasons I have for getting a home VPN. 1. Secure communication Online communication can be hit or miss when it comes to security. Some messaging services, such as Whatsapp, use end-to-end device encryption, which helps keep your messages secure, but other messaging services, such as Skype, don't use end-to-end encryption . If you use a VPN with any communication apps, then all your connection and messaging data between your device and the VPN server is fully encrypted. A VPN on a smartphone. (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson) 2. Access region-locked content Online content and services like Netflix are restricted to specific geographic regions. This content can range from news websites to video streaming platforms and social media apps. Using a VPN at home can appear to be using the internet from another location, allowing you to access restricted services. 3. Avoid bandwidth throttling Sometimes, an internet service provider (ISP) will slow down bandwidth or certain online activities. One of the most common reasons networks do this is to manage network congestion, especially during peak hours. You might notice that your home internet connection slows down at night, when everyone is home from work, or it might slow down when summer vacation starts. Using a VPN will prevent your service provider from identifying the type of web content you are accessing, making it impossible for your ISP to slow down your traffic. 4. Keep your Wi-Fi activity hidden A VPN also keeps your internet activity private from Wi-Fi network admins, who, if technically skilled enough, can figure out which websites you've visited. If you're worried about the Wi-Fi admin of your office, hotel, school or other public place having access to your browsing history, a VPN is the perfect solution for you. When it comes to your own home Wi-Fi network, a VPN will keep your browsing history private from other household members. WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)? 5. Defend against cyberattacks Hackers deploy large-scale cyberattacks to observe network activity and steal your information. These attacks are particularly prevalent on public Wi-Fi networks, which often have minimal security measures, but they can also target secured networks. Using a VPN can significantly enhance your security by providing encryption for your internet traffic, making it difficult for hackers to intercept and read your data. This encryption is especially crucial when using public Wi-Fi, as it secures your information from potential eavesdroppers. Additionally, a VPN masks your real IP address with that of the VPN server, helping to protect your identity online and making it harder for attackers to target you directly. However, it is essential to understand that while a VPN adds a layer of security, it is not a comprehensive solution against all cyber threats . A VPN does not prevent malware infections or phishing attacks , so you must still employ strong antivirus software and exercise caution when clicking on links or downloading files. Get my picks for the best 2024 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices . Furthermore, not all VPNs are created equal; some may have vulnerabilities or questionable privacy practices. It is crucial to choose a reputable provider that uses strong encryption and has a clear no-logging policy. 6. Fight against internet censorship There's a myriad of reasons, ranging from political to economic, that countries use to justify censoring certain apps and websites. It can be incredibly frustrating for citizens and anyone traveling to that country to lose access to email, social media, news websites and other tools that keep us connected to the world around us. I've used VPNs extensively while traveling to ensure that I can always view my most important websites, no matter where I actually am. As I've mentioned, a VPN can mask your IP address and make it appear as traffic from a different country, allowing you to bypass online geographic restrictions. 7. Save money by avoiding geographic price changes One of the best reasons to have a VPN at home is that it can help you save money and find better deals while online shopping. Some online retailers change their prices depending on users' locations. However, when using a VPN while shopping for plane tickets, hotels or gifts, it's possible to find cheaper prices just by changing your location. 8. Keep your online activity private from governments It's no longer the work of sci-fi. We do know that governments, nearly all of them, surveil their citizens. A VPN will add a layer of privacy, making it significantly more difficult for governments to detect your web traffic. Even if you feel that you have nothing to hide, online privacy is something you should feel free to exercise. 9. Hide your browsing history from your ISP Much like governments, your ISP can surveil your online activity with ease. While most ISPs claim that they don't sell your browsing data, they are often allowed through contracts with marketing agencies to give your data away for free to advertise to you. The simplest way to hide your online activity from your ISP is to use a VPN. When using a VPN, your ISP won't be able to see which websites you visit or which apps you use. Image of a Google search on a laptop (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson) HOW VPNS SHIELD YOUR IDENTITY AND SECURE YOUR FINANCIAL TRANSACTIONS FROM THEFT 10. Experience speedy low-ping online gaming While it may seem counterintuitive, a VPN can offer faster connection speeds for online gaming. It can also help prevent your ISP from throttling bandwidth directly from gaming servers. By changing your VPN's location, you can connect to a server closer to your gaming server, which will give you better latency. This is also called ping, which determines how fast the server responds to your inputs. CAN YOU BE TRACKED WHEN USING A VPN? Tips for maximizing your VPN security To fully leverage the benefits of your VPN and enhance your online security, consider these important tips that will help protect your personal information and ensure safe browsing. 1. Choose a reliable VPN: Select a reputable VPN service with strong encryption protocols. For best VPN software, see my expert review of the best VPNs for browsing the web privately on your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices . 2. Always use VPN on public Wi-Fi: Never access financial accounts on public networks without activating your VPN first. 3. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): Add an extra layer of security to your accounts by enabling 2FA . GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE 4. Use strong, unique passwords: Create complex passwords for each of your accounts and consider using a password manager. Consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords. 5. Regularly monitor your accounts: Check your retirement accounts frequently for any suspicious activity. 6. Keep software updated: Ensure your devices and apps are always up-to-date with the latest security patches. 7. Be cautious of phishing scams while using a VPN: Even with a VPN securing your connection, phishing scams remain a significant threat to your online safety. These scams often use deceptive emails or links to steal sensitive information like passwords or credit card numbers. To protect yourself, combine the use of a VPN with strong antivirus software that detects and blocks phishing attempts. Additionally, always scrutinize unsolicited emails, avoid clicking on suspicious links, and never provide personal information without verifying the source. For the best protection, check out my expert reviews of the top 2024 antivirus solutions for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices . Together with a VPN, this approach helps keep your personal information and digital assets safe. Kurt's key takeaways If you want to start taking your online privacy seriously, it's worth getting a VPN. There are a wide range of options available. You can pick up a router with a VPN or install a software VPN on your devices. I prefer to have a VPN on my laptop and smartphone, and I especially find it useful when traveling internationally. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP Do you have a reason for using a VPN we didn't feature in the list? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you'd like us to cover . Follow Kurt on his social channels: Facebook YouTube Instagram Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions: What is the best way to protect your Mac, Windows, iPhone and Android devices from getting hacked? What is the best way to stay private, secure and anonymous while browsing the web? How can I get rid of robocalls with apps and data removal services? How do I remove my private data from the internet? New from Kurt: Kurt’s Best New Holiday Deals Try CyberGuy's new games (crosswords, word searches, trivia and more!) Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved. Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on "FOX & Friends." Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.