Keep your data safe with some hot new gadgets
Being connected is normally considered to be a good thing, but that's not always the case. Sometimes even those who love tech want to step away from it for a second, or at least keep it in check. If you know someone who values privacy or worries about the security of their data, there are gadgets and programs to help with that, too. Try these tech products to help offer a little security and peace of mind in a seemingly insecure world.
Silent Pocket
The world is full of signals these days, with the prevalence of WiFi, Bluetooth, RFID and other technologies that help us connect wirelessly. But sometimes you don't want your device bombarded with radio waves - particularly if you're looking to protect sensitive information on your device. That's where Silent Pocket's device sleeves come in. The cases can be a defense against high-tech pickpockets who can use a number of different technologies to pilfer information from your laptop or smartphone. They can also be a good defense against the less sinister but more common thief: distraction. If you need to sit and think or work in an analog way for a while, this is like putting your devices into a timeout corner. These sleeves will block all signals, including cellular and GPS, around your device - meaning that you won't hear notifications go off, for example, and you can gain yourself peace of mind.
Price: $59.95
VPN subscription
Paranoid about what's lurking out there on the Internet? If you or your loved ones want to practice good surfing hygiene, there's no better place to start than with a VPN. Shorthand for "virtual private network," a VPN is an essential tool for the privacy-conscious Web user that protects your Web traffic from being intercepted. There are free options out there, but if you're looking for a security blanket that will give you a few more features and reliable service, consider a subscription option. HotSpot Shield has a subscription service that lets you disguise your Web traffic, which makes it difficult to trace where you're browsing from. It also protects against malware and encrypts your data to prevent snooping.
Price: $71.88 per year
F-Secure Sense
Those jumping into the smart home trend - or even just concerned about intruders on your home network - may want to consider upgrading the least sexy gadget of them all: the router. F-Secure Sense is one of a handful of routers that are specifically designed to protect your home against hackers who have gotten adept at hacking into smart toasters, fridges and other smart appliances as part of broader attacks. Even if your home isn't being targeted with an attack, hackers can still use your devices to attack others - which can slow down your network and, of course, runs the risk of compromising your privacy. The F-Secure Sense requires a $9.50 monthly subscription for security services after the first year. Like other smart routers, it pairs with an app on your phone to let you manage your network and be notified of any potential problems. It also works as a perfectly good router, if you decide the extra security doesn't fit your needs.
Price: $199, plus a $9.50 monthly subscription after the first year.