Technology
Secure your sensitive files by password-protecting your documents
One of the benefits of online file sharing and cloud storage services is the ability to share documents and files with friends, family, or colleagues easily. But with it being so easy, how do you protect your files when they are shared?
Below are ways to password-protect your files or folders on the top cloud and file-sharing platforms, including Microsoft Word, OneDrive, Google Drive and Dropbox.
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Friends sharing files on their computers (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
How to password-protect a document in Microsoft Word
You can password-protect individual Word documents using the steps below.
- Open your document by clicking your file on your computer
- Go to and click File
Password protect on Microsoft Word (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
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Password protect on Microsoft Word (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
Password protect on Microsoft Word (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
- Click Encrypt with Password
- Input a password
- Input the same password to confirm
- Click OK
- Save the file
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How to password-protect a Google Drive folder
Unlike other file-sharing and cloud storage services, Google Drive doesn’t have password-protected file sharing. Instead, you can use different settings to restrict access to each Google Drive folder using the steps below:
- Go to the Google Drive home screen on your desktop
- Find the folder or file you want to protect, and right-click that folder or file
How to protect Google Drive file or folder (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
How to protect Google Drive file or folder (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
- Select Share in the subfolder
How to protect Google Drive file or folder (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
- Add the email address of the person you’d like to share the folder or file
- In the drop-menu next to where you enter the email address, select the access level you’d like to grant: Viewer, Commenter or Editor
How to protect Google Drive file or folder (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
- You can either share a link to the folder by clicking the hyperlink icon or write a message and send an invitation to the addressee’s email by clicking Send.
How to protect Google Drive file or folder (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
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How to password-protect a shared folder on Dropbox
Unfortunately, you must upgrade from their free service to Dropbox Essentials to have access to link settings such as password protection. You can
- Log in to your Dropbox account
- Right-click on the file you want to share
- Select Copy Link
- Under the link, click Manage
How to password protect a shared folder on Dropbox (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
- Click Link settings
- In the drop-down menu, select Only People Invited
How to password protect a shared folder on Dropbox (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
How to password protect a shared folder on Dropbox (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
- Click Copy link to share or enter the email address you want to share the file with and select Share file
How to password protect a shared folder on Dropbox (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
How to password-protect a folder in OneDrive
Unlike the other file-sharing and cloud storage services, OneDrive doesn’t have password-protected file sharing. Instead, you can use different settings to restrict access to each OneDrive folder using the steps below.
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- Log into your OneDrive account
- Right-click on the file you want to share
- Select Share
How to password protect a folder in OneDrive (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
- In the pop-up window, click the gear shift icon
- Select People you choose
- Under More Settings, select the level of access in the drop-down
- Click Apply
How to password protect a folder in OneDrive (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
- Type in the email address of the person you want to give access and click Copy link or select Send
How to password protect a folder in OneDrive (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
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Implement zero-knowledge encryption
One of the most robust security measures for cloud storage is implementing zero-knowledge encryption. This approach ensures that your data is encrypted before it leaves your device, and only you possess the encryption keys. Even the cloud storage provider cannot access or decrypt your files, providing an additional layer of protection against potential data breaches or unauthorized access.
Zero-knowledge encryption achieves true end-to-end encryption, where your files remain encrypted during transfer, storage, and retrieval. This eliminates the risk of your sensitive data being exposed, even if the cloud provider’s systems are compromised.
To implement zero-knowledge encryption, you can use third-party encryption tools or services that integrate with your cloud storage provider. These tools encrypt your files locally before uploading them to the cloud, ensuring that your data remains private and secure.
By incorporating zero-knowledge encryption into your cloud storage strategy, you can significantly enhance the security and privacy of your personal data, providing an additional layer of protection against potential threats and unauthorized access.
Have strong antivirus software
Securing your cloud storage starts with protecting the devices you use to access it. Malware infections on your computer, smartphone, or tablet can potentially compromise your login credentials and expose your cloud data.
It’s crucial to use a reputable and up-to-date antivirus solution on all your devices. Make sure to keep your antivirus software and operating systems updated with the latest security patches to mitigate emerging threats.
Additionally, be cautious when downloading files or clicking on links, even from trusted sources, as they may contain malicious code that can infect your device and jeopardize your cloud storage security.
The best way to protect yourself from clicking malicious links that install malware that may get access to your private information is to have antivirus protection installed on all your devices. This can also alert you of any phishing emails or ransomware scams. Get my picks for the best 2024 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices.
Enable two-factor authentication
Most cloud storage providers offer an additional security feature called two-factor authentication (2FA). This adds an extra layer of protection by requiring a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone or an authenticator app, in addition to your password when logging in.
Enabling 2FA ensures that even if your password is compromised, unauthorized parties cannot access your cloud storage without the second factor. This significantly reduces the risk of account takeovers and unauthorized access to your files.
To set up 2FA, follow the instructions provided by your cloud storage provider in their security settings. It’s a simple yet effective way to enhance the security of your cloud storage accounts.
Limit sensitive data in the cloud
While cloud storage offers convenience and accessibility, it’s advisable to be selective about the type of data you store in the cloud. Avoid storing critical personal or financial information, legal documents, or proprietary business data in cloud storage services.
Instead, keep such sensitive files on secure local or offline storage solutions, such as encrypted external hard drives or secure network-attached storage devices. This minimizes the risk of exposing your most sensitive data in the event of a cloud storage breach or unauthorized access.
By following these additional security measures alongside the password protection methods and zero-knowledge encryption techniques outlined earlier, you can significantly enhance the overall security and privacy of your data in cloud storage services.
Kurt’s key takeaways
Sharing files and folders on Cloud and File Sharing services can make life a lot easier as you can share with others on the go. But keeping these files safe is also important since they are so accessible. While not all files can be password protected on every platform, each platform has ways to protect your files and folders by restricting access.
Have you ever experienced a security issue with your online files? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.
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Technology
Amazon’s smart shopping cart for Whole Foods gets bigger, lighter, and adds tap-to-pay
Amazon is launching a revamped version of its smart shopping cart, which it plans to bring to dozens of Whole Foods locations by the end of this year, according to an announcement on Wednesday. The new Dash Cart features a “more responsive” item scanner that’s now located next to the built-in display, along with a new NFC reader that lets you tap to pay with your credit card or phone.
Amazon’s previous Dash Cart design put scanners beneath and in front of the handle, potentially making them harder to spot. It also only let you pay with the credit card attached to your Amazon account.
With the upgraded Dash Cart, you’ll find a new scale alongside the cart’s handle, which Amazon says “works in tandem with on-cart cameras, weight sensors, and deep learning models to ensure accurate pricing for every item.” The upgraded Dash Cart eliminates the large sensors facing inside the cart as well, offering a 40 percent larger capacity and a 25 percent lighter weight.
The Dash Cart shows an interactive map of the store on its display, similar to Instacart’s smart Caper Cart. You can sync your shopping list created with Alexa, too, and see how much you’re spending as you add more items to your cart. The cart uses built-in sensors and computer vision to detect when you’ve removed an item, allowing it to automatically update your total. When you’re done shopping, you can skip the checkout line and leave the store in a designated Dash Cart lane.
Amazon is launching its new Dash Cart as the company shakes up its grocery business, which has tied Whole Foods more closely to the Amazon brand. The company has already brought its new Dash Cart to three Whole Foods stores in McKinney, Texas; Reston, Virginia; and Westford, Massachusetts, along with two Amazon Fresh stores.
Technology
Fake error popups are spreading malware fast
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A dangerous cybercrime tool has surfaced in underground forums, making it far easier for attackers to spread malware.
Instead of relying on hidden downloads, this tool pushes fake error messages that pressure you into fixing problems that never existed. Security researchers say this method is spreading quickly because it feels legitimate. The page looks broken. The warning feels urgent. The fix sounds simple.
That combination is proving alarmingly effective for cybercriminals.
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How fake error malware attacks actually work
These attacks begin with a compromised website. When a visitor lands on the page, something looks wrong right away. Text appears broken. Fonts look scrambled. Visual elements seem corrupted. A pop-up then appears claiming the issue can be fixed with a browser update or a missing system font. A button offers to repair the problem instantly.
Clicking that button copies a command to the clipboard and displays instructions to paste it into PowerShell or a system terminal. That single step launches the infection.
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Fake error popups make a website look broken by scrambling text or fonts to create urgency and panic. (Jens Büttner/picture alliance via Getty Images)
Why this new tool changes the threat landscape
The tool behind these attacks is called ErrTraffic. It automates the entire process and removes the technical barriers that once limited cybercrime operations. For about $800, attackers get a full package with a control panel and scripted payload delivery. Analysts at the Hudson Rock Threat Intelligence Team identified the tool after tracking its promotion on Russian-language forums in early December 2025.
ErrTraffic works through a simple JavaScript injection. A single line of code connects a hacked site to the attacker’s dashboard. From there, everything adapts automatically. The script detects the operating system and browser. It then displays a customized fake error message in the correct language. The attack works across Windows, Android, macOS and Linux.
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The popups often claim a browser update or missing system font is needed to fix the problem. (Daniel Acker/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Why security software struggles to stop it
Traditional malware defenses look for suspicious downloads or unauthorized installations. ErrTraffic avoids both. Browsers see normal text copying. Security tools see a legitimate system utility being opened manually. Nothing appears out of place. That design allows the attack to slip through protections that would normally stop malware in its tracks.
The success rate is deeply concerning
Data pulled from active ErrTraffic campaigns shows conversion rates approaching 60%. That means more than half of the visitors who see the fake error message follow the instructions and install malware. Once active, the tool can deliver infostealers like Lumma or Vidar on Windows devices. Android targets often receive banking trojans instead. The control panel even includes geographic filtering, with built-in blocks for Russia and neighboring regions to avoid drawing attention from local authorities.
What happens after infection?
Once malware is installed, credentials and session data are stolen. Those compromised logins are then used to breach additional websites. Each newly hacked site becomes another delivery vehicle for the same attack. That cycle allows the campaign to grow without direct involvement from the original operator.
FAKE WINDOWS UPDATE PUSHES MALWARE IN NEW CLICKFIX ATTACK
Following the on-screen instructions can quietly trigger malware that steals passwords and personal data. (Kurt Knutsson)
Ways to stay safe from fake error malware
A few smart habits can significantly reduce risk when facing fake error pop-ups and browser-based traps.
1) Never run commands suggested by a website
Legitimate websites never ask you to copy and paste commands into PowerShell or a system terminal. Fake error malware relies on convincing messages that pressure you into doing exactly that. If a page instructs you to run code to fix a problem, close it immediately.
2) Close pages that claim your system is corrupted
Fake error campaigns often use broken text, scrambled fonts or warnings about missing files to grab attention. As a result, these visuals create urgency and trigger fear. In reality, a real system problem never announces itself through a random website, so close the page right away.
3) Install updates only through official system settings
Real browser and operating system updates come from built-in update tools, not pop-ups on websites. If an update is needed, your device will notify you directly through system settings or trusted app stores.
4) Install strong antivirus software on every device
Strong antivirus software can help block malicious scripts, detect infostealers and stop suspicious behavior before damage spreads. This is especially important since fake error malware targets Windows, Android, macOS and Linux systems.
The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have strong antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe.
Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices at Cyberguy.com.
5) Use a data removal service to reduce exposure
Stolen credentials fuel the spread of fake error malware. Removing personal information from data broker sites can reduce the impact if login details are compromised and limit how far an attack can spread.
While no service can guarantee the complete removal of your data from the internet, a data removal service is really a smart choice. They aren’t cheap, and neither is your privacy. These services do all the work for you by actively monitoring and systematically erasing your personal information from hundreds of websites. It’s what gives me peace of mind and has proven to be the most effective way to erase your personal data from the internet. By limiting the information available, you reduce the risk of scammers cross-referencing data from breaches with information they might find on the dark web, making it harder for them to target you.
Check out my top picks for data removal services and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com.
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6) Treat font and browser update pop-ups with suspicion
Claims about missing fonts or outdated browsers are a hallmark of these attacks. Modern systems manage fonts automatically, and browsers update themselves. A webpage has no reason to request manual fixes.
If a real update is needed, the operating system will request it directly. A random webpage never should.
Kurt’s key takeaways
Fake error malware works because it plays on a very human reaction. When something on a screen suddenly looks broken, most people want to fix it fast and move on. That split-second decision is exactly what attackers are counting on. Tools like ErrTraffic show how polished these scams have become. The messages look professional. The instructions feel routine. Nothing about the moment screams danger. But behind the scenes, one click can quietly hand over passwords, banking access and personal data. The good news is that slowing down makes a real difference. Closing a suspicious page and trusting built-in system updates can stop these attacks cold. When it comes to pop-ups claiming your device is broken, walking away is often the smartest fix.
Have you ever seen a pop-up or error message that made you stop and wonder if it was real? Tell us what it looked like and how you handled it by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.
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Technology
Intel is planning a custom Panther Lake CPU for handheld PCs
Intel announced yesterday that it’s developing an entire “handheld gaming platform” powered by its new Panther Lake chips, and joining an increasingly competitive field. Qualcomm is hinting about potential Windows gaming handhelds showing up at the Game Developers Conference in March, and AMD’s new Strix Halo chips could lead to more powerful handhelds.
According to IGN and TechCrunch, sources say Intel is going to compete by developing a custom Intel Core G3 “variant or variants” just for handhelds that could outperform the Arc B390 GPU on the chips it just announced. IGN reports that by using the new 18A process, Intel can cut different die slices, and “spec the chips to offer better performance on the GPU where you want it.”
As for concrete details about the gaming platform, we’re going to have to wait. According to Intel’s Dan Rogers yesterday, the company will have “more news to share on that from our hardware and software partners later this year.” The Intel-based MSI Claw saw a marked improvement when it jumped to Lunar Lake, and hopefully the new platform keeps up that positive trend.
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