About that computer virus you can't remove...

March 2, 2022

Let’s talk about computer viruses. You know, the evil pieces of software threatening to encrypt or delete all your files. You may have seen or heard horror stories of windows opening with the threat of a computer virus already on your computer, ready to do terrible things. Sometimes though, that “virus notification” you see isn’t a computer virus at all.

We had a friend reach out because they kept getting a notification about a virus, and it looked like it was coming from antivirus software like AVG. The problem is, they didn’t have AVG installed, and their actual antivirus software pronounced the computer clean. After a few minutes of investigation, we found the real source of the problem. And it turned out to be something that can happen to Windows and macOS devices. Check out the top story for more details.

Other Highlights:

• If you get a “Critical Security Alert” from Wyze today, you can probably ignore it.
• Ford’s new EV charger will also power your home (with help from an EV).
• It’s March! So we gathered up the most interesting tech events in March history.
• …and more!

-Josh

A friend of Review Geek recently reached out for help with an old fashioned pop-up computer virus, the kind that pretends it’s antivirus software. But these messages weren’t really pop-ups; they were browser notifications from a website, and as such, they couldn’t be removed by legitimate antivirus software. Read More »

The first month of spring brings a handful of monumental firsts in the history of technology. Things we do daily, from making phone calls, surfing the internet, microblogging, and more, all trace back to their birthdays in March. Check out the details below. Read More »

Wyze Home Monitoring customers may get some weird notifications from 4 PM to 5 PM ET on March 2nd. That’s because Wyze is running a test to try and fix the Security Camera feature in Home Monitoring. Customers with iOS devices may receive critical security alerts during this test, and Android users might get unnecessary push notifications. Read More »

As foldable phones continue to grow in popularity, it’s only a matter of time before Google launches its long-awaited Pixel foldable. Early leaks and rumors suggest that Google’s first foldable will be a compelling, competitive device, and it could launch alongside the Pixel 7! Here’s everything we know about the Pixel Fold so far. Read More »

Kingston is now doubling-down on high-speed DDR5 memory with its new Fury Impact DDR5 SODIMM RAM. The small memory modules are 50% faster than DDR4 RAM and work in any compatible laptop or small-form-factor desktop PC. Read More »

It’s tough to remember where your phone, earbuds, and smartwatch are at all times and to remember to keep them charged. But a wireless charger stand, like this one, can do all of that for you! It’s compatible with most new iPhone and Samsung smartphones, newer AirPods and Samsung Galaxy Buds, newer Apple Watch models, and many other Qi-enabled phones. The 18W PD adapter also works through phone cases, and supports charging in both landscape and portrait orientations. Plus, its silicone design won’t scratch your gadgets.

Get it at Amazon →

Not too big or too small—the new Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3 is a perfect size, and we’re hyped. The original Chromebook Duet is one of our favorite Chrome OS devices, but now, it may be usurped by its mid-sized older brother. Read More »

It’s been over ten years since Valve released Portal 2, and fans of the series are getting restless. But on March 1st, Valve may temporarily satiate your desires with Aperture Desk Job, a short and sweet Portal game that teaches you how to use a controller. Read More »

Ford recently released its Charge Station Pro for homeowners. This powerful 80-amp bidirectional charging station unlocks the full potential of the F-150 Lightning EV truck, and it’s more affordable than most expected. Read More »

Google’s Waymo autonomous rideshare company has been working on launching Robo-taxis in California for years, and this week the approval finally came through. And while the company still has several rules to follow, Waymo now can charge fares and start self-driving passengers in select cities. Read More »

LEGO just announced three new Star Wars helmets for 2022, and this year it has a little something for everyone. LEGO has you covered whether you love Star Wars, Dark Troopers, or The Mandalorian. This is the way. Read More »

You can’t use just any microSD card to load games on your phone, Nintendo Switch, or Steam Deck. These platforms require speedy flash storage, and even then, some “fast” microSD cards just don’t offer the smoothest gaming experience. Now, PNY is here to address the problem with an affordable new gaming microSD card. Read More »

If you grew up before streaming services, you’re probably familiar with channel surfing. Just aimlessly flipping through channels looking for something good to watch. There’s a certain pleasure that comes from this, and TikTok is the modern-day equivalent. Read More »

Sometimes you need to shut down your Windows 10 or 11 PC, but thanks to something called “Fast Startup,” you might not be shutting it down all the way, with a fresh OS reload on the next power up. Here’s how to make sure your PC really shuts down completely. Read More »