This Clever Kindle Trick Lets You Download 25 Books at Once - but It's Risky
A new hack allows Kindle users to download up to 25 books at a time instead of the tedious process of downloading them individually, significantly reducing the time and effort required to back up a large library. This method involves using a Chrome extension called Tampermonkey to run a script that automates the download process, although it comes with significant risks, including potential security vulnerabilities and the possibility of data loss. Users are cautioned to proceed with caution, understanding that the effectiveness of the method can vary based on individual setups and the potential for unexpected technical issues.
The article highlights a growing concern among digital consumers about the accessibility and control over their purchased content, especially as companies tighten restrictions on downloads.
What implications does this have for consumer rights in the digital age, and should platforms like Amazon offer more robust backup options for digital purchases?
Amazon has secret ways to slash Kindle prices, and most shoppers miss them. I've noticed that there tend to be two types of reactions from users: some want to move off the Kindle platform as quickly as possible, while others desire a new Kindle. As part of the bulk download process, my wife realized she could no longer load Kindle books on her old devices due to outdated security protocols.
This phenomenon highlights the unintended consequences of complex digital ecosystems and the need for manufacturers to prioritize compatibility and security in their products.
How will Amazon's efforts to incentivize trade-in and reuse of existing devices impact the company's overall sustainability goals and environmental footprint?
Amazon offers several lesser-known strategies for customers to save money when upgrading their Kindle devices, enabling significant discounts through trade-ins, cashback, and promotional deals. The article outlines methods such as trading in old devices for a 20% discount, using an Amazon credit card for additional savings, and taking advantage of Kindle Unlimited promotions to maximize the overall value of the purchase. These strategies reveal that with careful planning and attention to detail, Kindle users can enhance their reading experience while minimizing costs.
The potential for savings highlights the importance of consumer awareness in navigating digital marketplaces, encouraging shoppers to seek out hidden deals that could redefine their purchasing power.
What additional savings strategies might emerge as Amazon continues to evolve its Kindle offerings and pricing structures?
The best Kindle (2024) deals offer various options for readers looking to upgrade their e-reader experience, from budget-friendly choices like the entry-level Kindle starting at $109.99 to more premium options like the Paperwhite Signature Edition. Amazon has also introduced a new kid-friendly version of its popular e-reader, the Kindle Kids, which comes with additional features and accessories. For those seeking deals, discounts on these models can be found, but be aware that prices may vary depending on the retailer.
The proliferation of budget-friendly Kindle options highlights the growing demand for affordable digital reading solutions, particularly among younger generations who prioritize convenience and portability.
Will Amazon's continued expansion into the e-reader market lead to increased competition in the device space, potentially forcing other manufacturers to adapt their own offerings?
A broad overview of the four stages shows that nearly 1 million Windows devices were targeted by a sophisticated "malvertising" campaign, where malware was embedded in ads on popular streaming platforms. The malicious payload was hosted on platforms like GitHub and used Discord and Dropbox to spread, with infected devices losing login credentials, cryptocurrency, and other sensitive data. The attackers exploited browser files and cloud services like OneDrive to steal valuable information.
This massive "malvertising" spree highlights the vulnerability of online systems to targeted attacks, where even seemingly innocuous ads can be turned into malicious vectors.
What measures will tech companies and governments take to prevent such widespread exploitation in the future, and how can users better protect themselves against these types of attacks?
As recent news reminds us, malicious browser add-ons can start life as legit extensions. Reviewing what you’ve got installed is a smart move. Earlier this month, an alarm sounded—security researchers at GitLab Threat Intelligence discovered a handful of Chrome extensions adding code in order to commit fraud, with at least 3.2 million users affected. But the add-ons didn’t start as malicious. Instead, they launched as legitimate software, only to be later compromised or sold to bad actors.
The fact that these extensions were able to deceive millions of users for so long highlights the importance of staying vigilant when installing browser add-ons and regularly reviewing their permissions.
As more people rely on online services, the risk of malicious extensions spreading through user adoption becomes increasingly critical, making it essential for Google to continually improve its Chrome extension review process.
Modern web browsers offer several built-in settings that can significantly enhance data security and privacy while online. Key adjustments, such as enabling two-factor authentication, disabling the saving of sensitive data, and using encrypted DNS requests, can help users safeguard their personal information from potential threats. Additionally, leveraging the Tor network with specific configurations can further anonymize web browsing, although it may come with performance trade-offs.
These tweaks reflect a growing recognition of the importance of digital privacy, empowering users to take control of their online security without relying solely on external tools or services.
What additional measures might users adopt to enhance their online security in an increasingly interconnected world?
Recently, news surfaced about stolen data containing billions of records, with 284 million unique email addresses affected. Infostealing software is behind a recent report about a massive data collection being sold on Telegram, with 23 billion entries containing 493 million unique pairs of email addresses and website domains. As summarized by Bleeping Computer, 284 million unique email addresses are affected overall.
A concerning trend in the digital age is the rise of data breaches, where hackers exploit vulnerabilities to steal sensitive information, raising questions about individual accountability and responsibility.
What measures can individuals take to protect themselves from infostealing malware, and how effective are current security protocols in preventing such incidents?
A 37-year-old Tennessee man has been arrested for allegedly stealing Blu-rays and DVDs from a manufacturing and distribution company used by major movie studios and sharing them online before the movies' scheduled release dates, resulting in significant financial losses to copyright owners. The alleged DVD thief, Steven Hale, is accused of bypassing encryption that prevents unauthorized copying and selling stolen discs on e-commerce sites, causing an estimated loss of tens of millions of dollars. This arrest marks a growing trend in law enforcement efforts to curb online piracy.
As the online sharing of copyrighted materials continues to pose a significant threat to creators and copyright owners, it's essential to consider whether stricter regulations or more effective penalties would be more effective in deterring such behavior.
How will the widespread availability of pirated content, often fueled by convenience and accessibility, impact the long-term viability of the movie industry?
A compact 256GB USB flash drive is the easiest way to add extra storage space on your laptop without breaking the bank. Samsung's 256GB Fit Plus thumb drive is currently available for $23 on Amazon, offering a significant 34% discount from its regular price. This tiny drive is robust, waterproof, and compatible with multiple devices, making it an ideal solution for users who need a fast and reliable way to transfer files.
The widespread adoption of cloud storage may lead to a decline in the use of external flash drives like the Samsung Fit Plus, but there are still many situations where a portable storage solution is necessary or preferred.
How will the increasing demands on data security and privacy in the digital age impact the design and functionality of future USB flash drives?
Vishing attacks have skyrocketed, with CrowdStrike tracking at least six campaigns in which attackers pretended to be IT staffers to trick employees into sharing sensitive information. The security firm's 2025 Global Threat Report revealed a 442% increase in vishing attacks during the second half of 2024 compared to the first half. These attacks often use social engineering tactics, such as help desk social engineering and callback phishing, to gain remote access to computer systems.
As the number of vishing attacks continues to rise, it is essential for organizations to prioritize employee education and training on recognizing potential phishing attempts, as these attacks often rely on human psychology rather than technical vulnerabilities.
With the increasing sophistication of vishing tactics, what measures can individuals and organizations take to protect themselves from these types of attacks in the future, particularly as they become more prevalent in the digital landscape?
A simple and effective method allows Gmail users to archive their emails and media while freeing up storage without losing important data. By utilizing Google Takeout for backups and creating a new Gmail account for archiving, users can declutter their inbox and optimize storage capacity without the hassle of manual deletions. This strategy not only preserves essential emails but also ensures a fresh start with the original account.
This approach highlights the importance of digital organization and the need for innovative solutions to manage storage in an increasingly data-driven world.
What other creative methods can users employ to manage their digital storage effectively without incurring additional costs?
A data shredder stick is the easiest and most secure way to wipe your old laptop's contents, providing peace of mind when selling or recycling it. This Windows-friendly tool overwrites data, making it impossible to recover once done, giving users greater control over their digital legacy. By using a data shredder stick, individuals can ensure their personal information and files are protected from falling into the wrong hands.
The rise of data shredding tools like this one underscores the growing concern for digital security and the need for individuals to take proactive steps in protecting their online presence.
As more people become aware of the importance of secure data erasure, will manufacturers also start incorporating similar technologies into new devices, making it even easier for consumers to erase their digital footprints?
The new Mark 1 AI-powered bookmark aims to transform the reading experience by generating intelligent summaries, highlighting key themes and quotes, and tracking reading habits. This device can collate data on reading pace, progress, and knowledge scores, providing users with a more engaging and intuitive way to absorb information. By integrating with a companion application, readers can share insights and connect with others who have read similar texts.
The integration of AI-powered features in consumer hardware raises important questions about the potential impact on our individual reading habits and the dissemination of information.
How will the widespread adoption of such devices influence the way we consume and engage with written content, potentially altering traditional notions of literature and knowledge?
Security researchers spotted a new ClickFix campaign that has been abusing Microsoft SharePoint to distribute the Havoc post-exploitation framework. The attack chain starts with a phishing email, carrying a "restricted notice" as an .HTML attachment, which prompts the victim to update their DNS cache manually and then runs a script that downloads the Havoc framework as a DLL file. Cybercriminals are exploiting Microsoft tools to bypass email security and target victims with advanced red teaming and adversary simulation capabilities.
This devious two-step phishing campaign highlights the evolving threat landscape in cybersecurity, where attackers are leveraging legitimate tools and platforms to execute complex attacks.
What measures can organizations take to prevent similar ClickFix-like attacks from compromising their SharePoint servers and disrupting business operations?
The prevalence of smartphone addiction has led to a surge in innovative devices aimed at helping users reduce their screen time while still maintaining connectivity. Products like Unpluq and Boox Palma 2 offer unique approaches, from physical blocking mechanisms to distraction-free e-readers, catering to various user preferences and needs. This trend highlights a growing recognition of the need for balance in a digitally dominated world, encouraging users to re-evaluate their relationship with technology.
The emergence of these devices reflects broader societal concerns about mental health and well-being, prompting a shift in how technology is designed and marketed to consumers.
What other strategies might individuals explore to combat smartphone addiction beyond hardware solutions?
Using virtual cards can significantly enhance online shopping security by allowing consumers to manage their spending and limit exposure to fraud. Services like Privacy.com enable users to create virtual card numbers with specific spending limits, making it easier to handle subscriptions and free trials without the risk of unexpected charges. This method not only protects personal financial information but also offers peace of mind when dealing with unfamiliar vendors.
The rise of virtual cards reflects a broader shift towards consumer empowerment in financial transactions, potentially reshaping the landscape of online commerce and digital security.
What other innovative financial tools could emerge to further safeguard consumers in the evolving landscape of online shopping?
Expanding a laptop's storage can be achieved through various methods without the need for an internal SSD upgrade. Options such as using SD or microSD cards, USB flash drives, external drives, network-attached storage (NAS), and cloud storage provide flexibility for users facing storage limitations. Each method has its own advantages and trade-offs, allowing users to choose the best solution based on their specific needs and usage patterns.
The diversity of storage solutions highlights the importance of adaptability in technology use, enabling users to tailor their devices to better fit their evolving digital lifestyles.
Which of these storage expansion methods do you find most appealing, and what factors influence your decision in selecting one over the others?
A company's executives received an extortion letter in the mail claiming to be from BianLian ransomware group, demanding payment of $250,000 to $350,000 in Bitcoin within ten days. However, cybersecurity researchers have found that the attacks are likely fake and the letter's contents bear no resemblance to real ransom notes. Despite this, the scammers are using a new tactic by sending physical letters, potentially as part of an elaborate social engineering campaign.
This unexpected use of snail mail highlights the adaptability and creativity of cybercriminals, who will stop at nothing to extort money from their victims.
As cybersecurity threats continue to evolve, it's essential for organizations to remain vigilant and develop effective strategies to mitigate the impact of such campaigns.
The recent arrest of two cybercriminals, Tyrone Rose and Shamara Simmons, has shed light on a sophisticated scheme to steal hundreds of concert tickets through a loophole in StubHub's back end. The pair, who have been charged with grand larceny, computer tampering, and conspiracy, managed to resell about 900 tickets for shows including Taylor Swift, Adele, and Ed Sheeran for around $600,000 between June 2022 and July 2023. This brazen exploit highlights the ongoing threat of ticket scams and the importance of vigilance in protecting consumers.
The fact that these cybercriminals were able to succeed with such a simple exploit underscores the need for greater cybersecurity measures across online platforms, particularly those used for buying and selling tickets.
What additional steps can be taken by StubHub and other ticketing websites to prevent similar exploits in the future, and how can consumers better protect themselves from falling victim to these types of scams?
Amnesty International said that Google fixed previously unknown flaws in Android that allowed authorities to unlock phones using forensic tools. On Friday, Amnesty International published a report detailing a chain of three zero-day vulnerabilities developed by phone-unlocking company Cellebrite, which its researchers found after investigating the hack of a student protester’s phone in Serbia. The flaws were found in the core Linux USB kernel, meaning “the vulnerability is not limited to a particular device or vendor and could impact over a billion Android devices,” according to the report.
This highlights the ongoing struggle for individuals exercising their fundamental rights, particularly freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, who are vulnerable to government hacking due to unpatched vulnerabilities in widely used technologies.
What regulations or international standards would be needed to prevent governments from exploiting these types of vulnerabilities to further infringe on individual privacy and security?
Today's Wordle has vowels in two places, starts with the letter D, has no repeated letters, ends with Y, and features a supreme being as its answer. The game requires strategic thinking, as the absence of repeated letters makes it more challenging to narrow down options. With the right starting word, players can tackle this puzzle and keep their streak going.
The Wordle community's reliance on algorithms and probability plays a significant role in solving the puzzles, which may alter the experience for human solvers.
Can a truly 'random' starting word ever truly guarantee success in Wordle, or is it an illusion created by its statistical optimization?
Microsoft has confirmed that its Windows drivers and software are being exploited by hackers through zero-day attacks, allowing them to escalate privileges and potentially drop ransomware on affected machines. The company patched five flaws in a kernel-level driver for Paragon Partition Manager, which were apparently found in BioNTdrv.sys, a piece of software used by the partition manager. Users are urged to apply updates as soon as possible to secure their systems.
This vulnerability highlights the importance of keeping software and drivers up-to-date, as outdated components can provide entry points for attackers.
What measures can individuals take to protect themselves from such attacks, and how can organizations ensure that their defenses against ransomware are robust?
The Verge has compiled a continually updated list of engaging articles and longreads from across the internet, aimed at helping readers navigate the overwhelming volume of content available online. This curated collection spans a variety of topics, including journalism, technology, culture, and history, ensuring there’s something for everyone. By presenting these diverse reads, The Verge invites discussion and exploration of ideas that resonate with its audience.
The breadth of topics covered in this list highlights the interconnectedness of culture and technology, suggesting that readers can find value in exploring overlapping narratives across different fields.
How does the digital age's information overload affect our ability to engage meaningfully with content and ideas?
Commonwealth Bank is introducing a new layer of security to its internet banking, requiring millions of customers to approve each login attempt via the app. The bank claims this will make it harder for fraudsters to access customer accounts. However, critics argue that the added complexity may push some users away from mobile banking altogether.
The introduction of multi-factor authentication highlights the cat-and-mouse game between financial institutions and cybercriminals, as each side adapts its tactics to outmaneuver the other.
Will this new security measure ultimately lead to a shift towards more seamless and convenient online banking experiences that are less vulnerable to hacking attempts?
Cybersecurity experts have successfully disrupted the BadBox 2.0 botnet, which had compromised over 500,000 low-cost Android devices by removing numerous malicious apps from the Play Store and sinkholing multiple communication domains. This malware, primarily affecting off-brand devices manufactured in mainland China, has been linked to various forms of cybercrime, including ad fraud and credential stuffing. Despite the disruption, the infected devices remain compromised, raising concerns about the broader implications for consumers using uncertified technology.
The incident highlights the vulnerabilities associated with low-cost tech products, suggesting a need for better regulatory measures and consumer awareness regarding device security.
What steps can consumers take to protect themselves from malware on low-cost devices, and should there be stricter regulations on the manufacturing of such products?