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Friday, September 12, 2025

Cut the Jargon: Why This Game Might Be the Security Game You Need to Play

Cut the Jargon: Why This Game Might Be the Security Game You Need to Play

The nonstop flood of cybersecurity acronyms is more than a nuisance. It creates confusion that can weaken defenses. BeyondTrust’s new game, Acronym Overload, aims to fix that problem in a surprisingly effective way.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

September 12, 2025

Think about the last time you sat in a security meeting.

Someone probably said, “We need to shore up IAM, JIT, ZTNA, and ABAC” and you nodded along even though at least one of those terms was fuzzy.

Most of us have been there. Acronyms dominate security conversations, but too many shortcuts can bury meaning.

When clarity slips, risks grow.

Here's a Cool Tip: Play the Acronym Overload game.

BeyondTrust has built a short browser game called Acronym Overload to bring the problem into focus.

It feels playful, but the purpose is serious: to keep your team speaking the same language when it matters most.

What Is Acronym Overload?

The game is simple.

Acronyms fall down your screen.

Some are real, like MFA or SIEM. Others are made-up nonsense.

Your job is to grab the real ones and avoid the fakes. Every wrong choice chips away at your lives.

It sounds lighthearted, but there’s a point.

Misunderstanding acronyms can cause mistakes that ripple through operations.

For example, mixing up JIT (just-in-time access) with a different concept could lead to over-permissioned accounts.

The game highlights how often we think we know an acronym but don’t.

What You’ll Gain

Sharper communication inside security teams
A quick way to test and raise baseline knowledge
Fewer costly mistakes caused by jargon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here's how to do it.

On Desktop (Web)

Open your browser and go to BeyondTrust’s Acronym Overload: https://www.acronym-overload.com/
Play a round by catching valid acronyms and dodging fake ones.
Review the mistakes you made.
Use the glossary provided to check correct definitions.

fig. 1 - BeyondTrust Acronym Overload

On Mobile (iOS / Android)

The game runs in any modern browser: https://www.acronym-overload.com/
Rotate to full screen for the best experience.
No dedicated app is available, but mobile play works fine.

Configuration Guide

Glossary Access: BeyondTrust provides a glossary alongside the game. Keep it handy to double-check terms.
Customization: Currently you can’t add your own acronyms.
Access: It is free and requires only a web connection. Share the link with your colleagues.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Quick to pick up, no setup required.
Useful icebreaker for meetings or training sessions.
Makes learning memorable through play.

Cons

Limited depth; it points out confusion but doesn’t provide full training.
No way to tailor acronyms for your organization.
Easy for players to treat as a novelty rather than a learning tool.

Who Can Use It

Availability: Free on BeyondTrust’s website.
Requirements: Just a browser, desktop or mobile.
Subscription: None needed.

Score

Criterion Score Reason

Value 8
It tackles a real communication issue that often gets ignored.

Usability 7
Anyone can play without training, but customization is missing.

Wow Factor 6
Fun and clever, but not a game-changer in depth.

Total: 21/30 - Good. Worth playing.

Key Takeaways

Acronym confusion can create serious risk.

Acronym Overload is a free, accessible way to surface knowledge gaps.

It works best as a supplement to training, not a replacement.

Try It Yourself

Play a quick round at your next team meeting.

Compare scores, see which acronyms tripped people up, and use that as a springboard for discussion.

Share your team’s experience in the comments, and subscribe to One Cool Tip for more daily insights.

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Rodger Mansfield, a seasoned tech expert, is the mastermind behind www.OneCoolTip.com where he serves as both writer and editor. With a keen eye for simplifying complex tech, Rodger delivers practical advice that empowers readers to navigate the digital world with confidence. Dive into www.OneCoolTip.com for a treasure trove of savvy tips and tricks that keep you one step ahead in tech.

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Thursday, September 11, 2025

Why Chrome’s Incognito Mode Isn’t Always Enough

Why Chrome’s Incognito Mode Isn’t Always Enough

Chrome offers both Guest Profiles and Incognito Mode, but they solve different problems. Learn the difference, when to use each, and how these tools can simplify your digital life.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

September, 11, 2025

Have you ever handed over your laptop to a friend or colleague for a quick Google search, only to feel a little pang of anxiety as you watched them type?

We all know that moment. You trust your friends, but you might not want them seeing your browser history, bookmarks, or the myriad of accounts you're logged into.

It is a classic digital privacy dilemma.

Here's a Cool Tip: Chrome's Guest Mode.

These two features might seem similar on the surface, but they are built for fundamentally different purposes.

Understanding the distinction is not just a tech tip, it is a simple, but powerful way to protect your digital life, whether you are lending your device or using a public computer.

What You'll Gain

Securely lend your computer to others.
Protect your personal data from prying eyes.
Browse confidently on public or shared machines.

How to Sign Out of All Devices on Disney Plus

How to Sign Out of All Devices on Disney Plus

Need to kick someone off your Disney+ account or just want a fresh login?

Here’s how to remotely sign out of all devices in seconds, whether you’re protecting your account after a password share or cleaning up old logins.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

July 27, 2025

Ever shared your Disney+ password and later had second thoughts?

Maybe it was your cousin’s friend on a road trip or your old tablet that never got wiped.

Either way, you’re suddenly getting “Continue Watching” suggestions for shows you’ve never heard of, and your profile icon has mysteriously changed to Olaf.

Here's a Cool Tip: Log out of all devices on Disney Plus.

Luckily, Disney Plus makes it easy to log out of all devices, without needing to track them down one by one.

And it only takes a few clicks.

Microsoft Edge Introduces Scareware Blocker: Your New Best Friend Against Online Scams

Microsoft Edge Introduces Scareware Blocker: Your New Best Friend Against Online Scams

Microsoft Edge's new Scareware Blocker feature uses AI to detect and block tech support scams, providing an extra layer of security for users.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

February 2, 2025

Have you ever encountered a pop-up claiming your computer is infected with a virus and urging you to call a fake tech support number?

These "scareware" scams are not only annoying but also dangerous. But what if there was a way to block them automatically?

Here's a Cool Tip: Set the New Scareware Blocker in Microsoft Edge.

Microsoft Edge has introduced a new feature called Scareware Blocker, designed to protect users from tech support scams.

Using a local AI model, this feature analyzes web pages in real-time to detect signs of scams.

How to Set Stolen Device Protection on Your iPhone

How to Set Stolen Device Protection on Your iPhone

Discover the ins and outs of iPhone’s Stolen Device Protection feature, ensuring your personal data remains secure even if your device falls into the wrong hands.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

August 18, 2024

Have you ever considered what happens to your personal data when your iPhone is stolen?

Could a thief access your photos, messages, or even financial information?

Here's a Cool Tip: Use iPhone's Stolen Device Protection.

FBI Warns: Don't Fall for This Debit Card Scam

FBI Warns: Don't Fall for This Debit Card Scam

The FBI has issued a public service announcement warning about a fraudulent scheme where impersonators trick bank customers into surrendering their debit cards.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

August 6, 2024

Have you received an unexpected call from your bank about suspicious activity on your account?

Did they ask you to cut up your debit card and provide your PIN?

Here's a Cool Tip. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

In a recent public service announcement, the FBI warned about a fraudulent scheme where impersonators trick bank customers into surrendering their debit cards.

Lost Your Windows Device? Here’s How to Find and Lock It Remotely

Lost Your Windows Device? Here’s How to Find and Lock It Remotely

Learn how to enable “Find My Device” on both Windows 10 and Windows 11, locate your lost device, and secure it remotely. Whether it’s a laptop, tablet, or desktop, these steps will help you regain control and protect your data.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor
June 12, 2024

Imagine this scenario: You’re rushing through a crowded airport, and suddenly, panic sets in.

Your laptop—the repository of your work, memories, and cat videos—is nowhere to be found.

Here's a Cool Tip. Enable Find My Device in Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Find My Device is a built-in feature in Windows 10/11 that allows you to track your PC’s location.

Think of it as Windows’ counterpart to Apple’s Find My feature.

Once enabled, you can use your Microsoft account to locate your Windows PC on a map.

Not only that, but you can also lock the PC remotely, preventing unauthorized access to your data.

Additionally, you have the option to display a message on the lost device, making it easier for someone who finds it to return it to you

Here's how to do it.

Oh No! Has My Email Been Hacked? Find Out Now with This Free Tool

Oh No! Has My Email Been Hacked? Find Out Now with This Free Tool

Have I Been Pwned is a free service that helps you discover if your email has been compromised in a data breach. Learn how to use this powerful tool to protect your online identity.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

June 8, 2024

Do you ever wake up in a cold sweat, wondering if your personal information has been leaked in one of the many data breaches plaguing the internet?

The fear is real, and the consequences can be severe.

Here's a Cool Tip. Use Have I Been Pwned to check.

Have I Been Pwned (HIBP) is a free and easy-to-use tool that can give you answers – and peace of mind.

fig. 1 - Have I Been Pwned?

Urgent Chrome Security Alert: Update NOW to Patch Zero-Day Exploit (CVE-2024-4671)

Urgent Chrome Security Alert: Update NOW to Patch Zero-Day Exploit (CVE-2024-4671)

Google has released a critical security update for Chrome to address a zero-day vulnerability actively exploited by hackers.

Update your browser to version 124.0.6367.201/.202 IMMEDIATELY.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

May 11, 2024

Have you updated your Google Chrome browser recently?

If not, you may be at risk. Google has issued an urgent security patch to address a zero-day vulnerability actively exploited by cybercriminals.

Here's a Cool Tip. Update Chrome Immediately!

What is a Zero-Day Exploit?

A zero-day exploit is a software vulnerability that hackers discover and exploit before the software developer can release a patch.

This makes them incredibly dangerous because there's no defense against them until a fix is available.

The CVE-2024-4671 Vulnerability

The vulnerability in question, tracked as CVE-2024-4671, exists in Chrome's Visuals component.

It's a "use-after-free" issue that can potentially allow attackers to execute malicious code on your device remotely.

This could lead to data theft, malware installation, or other harmful actions.

Why You Need to Update Immediately

This zero-day exploit is already being used in the wild, meaning your computer is at risk if you haven't updated Chrome.

While Google hasn't released details about the attacks, the urgency of the update indicates the threat is serious.

Here's how to do it.

Launch your Google Chrome browser.
In the top right corner, click the three vertical dots.
Hover over "Help" and click "About Google Chrome."
Chrome will automatically check for updates and install them if available.
After the update is installed, click "Relaunch" to restart Chrome.

fig. 1 - Update Chrome Immediately

The Benefits of Updating Go Beyond Security

Enhanced Security: Protect yourself from this specific exploit and other potential threats.
Improved Performance: Updates often include bug fixes and optimizations for a smoother experience.
New Features: Some updates bring exciting new functionalities to your browser.

A similar zero-day exploit was discovered in Chrome earlier this year (CVE-2024-0519).

Hackers used it to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information and crash unpatched browsers.

Conclusion

Updating your Google Chrome browser is a simple yet crucial step to protect yourself from cyber threats.

Don't delay—update now to version 124.0.6367.201/.202 and safeguard your digital life.

Remember, cybersecurity is an ongoing battle, and staying updated is your best defense.

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Rodger Mansfield, a seasoned tech expert, is the mastermind behind OneCoolTip.com, where he serves as both writer and editor. With a keen eye for simplifying complex tech, Rodger delivers practical advice that empowers readers to navigate the digital world with confidence. Dive into OneCoolTip.com for a treasure trove of savvy tips and tricks that keep you one step ahead in tech.

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Cool Tech Tips for a Cooler Life!

#Chrome @Chrome #Google @Google #ChromeUpdate #ZeroDayExploit #Cybersecurity #OnlineSafety #ProtectYourData #TechTips #OneCoolTip @OneCoolTip

Tuesday, April 2, 2024

AT&T Data Breach: Millions of Customers' Information Exposed on Dark Web

AT&T confirms a data breach potentially exposing the personal information of over 70 million current and former customers. The company is investigating the source and offering affected customers credit monitoring.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

April 2, 2024

Is your personal information safe with AT&T?

That's the question swirling in the minds of millions of customers after the telecommunications giant confirmed a significant data breach.

A dataset containing the information of approximately 73 million customers surfaced on the dark web.

Should you be worried, and what can you do to protect yourself?

Here's a Cool Tip. Be informed and protect your privacy.

This significant breach raises serious concerns about the security of customer data held by AT&T.

Affected individuals should remain vigilant in the coming weeks and months to protect themselves from potential identity theft and financial fraud.

AT&T has launched a full-scale investigation into the data breach incident.

While they've confirmed some AT&T-specific data was present, the full scope of the exposed information and its original source remain under investigation.

Preliminary findings suggest the information dates back to 2019 or earlier.

What information might be exposed?

While the investigation is ongoing, the types of data potentially exposed could include:

Social Security Numbers
Contact Details (addresses, phone numbers)
Account Passcodes
Other personal identifiers

What AT&T is doing

AT&T is proactively notifying affected customers.

The company states they will offer credit monitoring services at their expense where applicable.

How to Protect Yourself

Change Passwords: Change your AT&T account passwords immediately, and update passwords on any other accounts where you may have reused them.
Monitor Your Accounts: Keep a close eye on your credit reports and financial accounts for any signs of unusual activity.
Consider Credit Monitoring: Even if not offered by AT&T, consider subscribing to a credit monitoring service for extra protection.
Be Wary of Scams: Fraudsters may try to capitalize on the breach, so be cautious of phishing emails or suspicious calls.

The Takeaway

Data breaches are an unfortunate reality in today's digital landscape.

This AT&T incident underscores the importance of taking proactive measures to safeguard your personal information.

Regularly updating passwords, monitoring your accounts, and utilizing credit monitoring services can significantly reduce your risk of identity theft and fraud.

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Source: AT&T

#ATT #databreach #darkweb #cybersecurity #identitytheft #TechTips #OneCoolTip @OneCoolTip

Sunday, July 30, 2017

FBI Warns Parents About Internet Connected Toys

Beware of the toys. They may be watching, listening and sharing.

That's the warning to parents from the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) about internet connected toys.

The FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) recently issued a statement to parents "to consider cyber security prior to introducing smart, interactive, internet-connected toys into their homes or trusted environments."

The concern is that the toys could pose identity theft and exploitation threats due to microphones, cameras and geo-location data that is improperly used, shared or stored.

The full notice is worth reading but here are a few points:

Only connect and use toys with trusted and secure Wi-Fin internet access.
Closely monitor children’s activity with the toys (such as conversations and voice recordings) through the toy’s partner parent application, if such features are available
Ensure the toy is turned off, particularly those with microphones and cameras, when not in use
Use strong and unique login passwords when creating user accounts (e.g., lower and upper case letters, numbers, and special characters)
Carefully read disclosures and privacy policies

Should we be concerned? Maybe to Probably. It can happen.

Nearly two years, we warned readers about the problem caused by one company.

In that case, Vtech a major tech toy company, poorly stored sensitive children data on the web.

So the best thing we can do is to be cautious and knowledgeable.

Source: FBI

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#hack #security #toys #FBI #IC3

Tuesday, June 13, 2017

Protect Your Online Accounts with Two Factor Authentication

Gaining access to our online accounts with just a few clicks brings both benefits and drawbacks.

Sure, you can log into your Google, Facebook or Yahoo accounts from wherever you are.

But so can someone else.

That's why always using secure passwords is a must.

But what else can you do to protect your accounts from nefarious hackers and data breaches?

Two Factor Authentication is the answer.

What?

Two Factor authentication provides an additional layer of protection when you log into your online accounts.

When you login with two factor authentication, you'll receive a special code sent by text to your mobile phone that also must be entered to provide access to your account.

That prevents someone who doesn't know both your password AND this special one-time code from gaining access to your account.

Many of your most popular sites such as Google, Facebook, YAHOO, Twitter and LinkedIn all provide this valuable security feature.

Here's how to enable two factor authentication for Google, Facebook and YAHOO:

Google

Click HERE to start the Google 2-Step Verification set-up process for your Google account.

Facebook

To start the two factor authentication for your Facebook account:

Go to your Security and Login Settings by clicking in the top-right corner of Facebook and clicking Settings > Security and Login.
Scroll down to Use two-factor authentication and click Edit
Choose the authentication method you want to add and follow the on-screen instructions
Click Enable once you've selected and turned on an authentication method

YAHOO

To enable two factor authentication for your YAHOO account:

Sign in to your Yahoo Account info page.
Click Account Security.
Next to Two-step verification, click the On/Off icon .
Enter your mobile number.
Click Send SMS to receive a text message with a code or Call me to receive a phone call.
Enter the verification code | click Verify.
The next window refers to the use of apps like iOS Mail or Outlook. Click Create app password to reconnect your apps. See the section below for more info.
Want to turn it off? Simply click the On/Off icon under Two-step verification.
Using two-step verification with apps
Some apps (like iOS Mail, Android Mail, Outlook, and Yahoo messenger for PC) require a specific password to connect that app with Yahoo. If you enable two-step verification, you'll need to create a third-party app password to use in apps like these.

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#twofactor #authentication #Google #YAHOO #facebook #twitter #LinkedIn #security #password #hacker

Saturday, April 16, 2016

Remove Apple QuickTime To Prevent Hacker Attack

US-CERT, the United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team has issued a warning this week for Windows PC users to remove Apple's QuickTime software from their computers.

Apple has announced that it is ending support for the software. While the software will continue to work, it is vulnerable to malicious exploitation by hackers.

Apple has detailed instructions HERE on how to remove QuickTime.

QuickTime was Apple's proprietary multimedia software and they aggressively promoted its use for years. Often, it was a required download with other Apple software such as iTunes software.

So you may have it installed and not even know it.

It's a quick thing to do on my Windows machines.

Uninstall at your first opportunity.

Your PC will thank you.

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Edit: added additional information concerning QuickTime.

Monday, November 30, 2015

What to Do If You Are Affected by the Vtech Hack Attack

Vtech, a worldwide provider of electronic products, has been hacked.

Specifically, the Learning Lodge app store used for the interactive toys made by Vtech was attacked.

Millions of users are affected. Emails, Passwords and other account information was stolen.

The Learning Lodge site is currently offline.

Vtech was quick to point out that credit card information was not involved.

But here's the real problem.

User's emails, passwords and -- most importantly -- the questions and answers to security questions for password retrieval were stolen.

That means if users used the same email, passwords and security answers on OTHER websites, their credit card and financial information is possibly as risk.

So what can you do?

Be sure to change the passwords and security question answers of OTHER sites that shared the Vtech password and security answers.

And going forward, do not use the same passwords and security question answers on other sites.

That's hard to do but your online identity is worth protecting.

Affected customers with questions can contact Vtech at the following emails:

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Friday, September 12, 2025

Cut the Jargon: Why This Game Might Be the Security Game You Need to Play

Thursday, September 11, 2025

Why Chrome’s Incognito Mode Isn’t Always Enough

Sunday, July 27, 2025

How to Sign Out of All Devices on Disney Plus

Sunday, February 2, 2025

Microsoft Edge Introduces Scareware Blocker: Your New Best Friend Against Online Scams

Sunday, August 18, 2024

How to Set Stolen Device Protection on Your iPhone

Tuesday, August 6, 2024

FBI Warns: Don't Fall for This Debit Card Scam

Wednesday, June 12, 2024

Lost Your Windows Device? Here’s How to Find and Lock It Remotely

Saturday, June 8, 2024

Oh No! Has My Email Been Hacked? Find Out Now with This Free Tool

Saturday, May 11, 2024

Urgent Chrome Security Alert: Update NOW to Patch Zero-Day Exploit (CVE-2024-4671)

Tuesday, April 2, 2024

AT&T Data Breach: Millions of Customers' Information Exposed on Dark Web

Sunday, July 30, 2017

FBI Warns Parents About Internet Connected Toys

Tuesday, June 13, 2017

Protect Your Online Accounts with Two Factor Authentication

Saturday, April 16, 2016

Remove Apple QuickTime To Prevent Hacker Attack

Monday, November 30, 2015

What to Do If You Are Affected by the Vtech Hack Attack