Skip to main content

Safeplug safeguards you from snoops for less than $50

nsa safeplug pogoplug router tor network privacy online
Image used with permission by copyright holder
Between the NSA and Google, you might be left wondering if there’s such a thing as privacy anymore. The folks at Pogoplug would like to think so, and have developed an adapter that they claim will let you surf the web anonymously..for the most part.

It’s called Safeplug. It connects to your router, filters everything you do on the Internet through the privacy-lovin’ Tor network, whose homepage claims to help you “defend against traffic analysis, a form of network surveillance that threatens personal freedom and privacy, confidential business activities and relationships, and state security.”

By using Safeplug, you won’t be forced to use the Tor browser in order to do whatever you want on the Internet while maintaining a relatively high level of anonymity. Pogoplug says that Safeplug is “extremely” secure, though they also caution that no security measure is 100 percent without fail. The FAQ recommends that you clear your cookies between browsing sessions to ensure the highest level of privacy possible.

Once you plug Safeplug into your router, no software needs to be installed on your devices in order to begin using it. Safeplug supports multiple browsers, including Chrome, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Safari and others. Once you install Safeplug, you will need to activate the device online.

Perhaps best of all, Safeplug is pretty cheap. You can snag one for $49. Interested in picking one up? Just head here, and if you do decide to grab a Safeplug, tell us about your impressions and experiences with it.

Konrad Krawczyk
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Konrad covers desktops, laptops, tablets, sports tech and subjects in between for Digital Trends. Prior to joining DT, he…
What to do if your Intel CPU keeps crashing
Pins on Core i9-12900K.

Despite being among the best processors you can buy, some high-end Intel CPUs have faced a wave of instability over the past few months. Intel is investigating the problem, but the company and its motherboard partners have already worked toward some temporary fixes to improve stability on high-end Intel CPUs -- even if it comes at a performance cost.

Before getting into the fixes, keep in mind that they are temporary. Intel will release a statement on the instability soon, likely with more direct guidance on what affected users should do. In addition, the scope of the problem isn't clear -- if you're not experiencing issues, you shouldn't have anything to worry about.
Who's affected

Read more
HP Envy deals: HP’s most popular laptop starts at $630
An HP Envy 17-inch laptop sits on an office desk.

HP is one of the best laptop brands in the laptop space, with a huge selection of laptops to pick from, including some of the best laptops on the market. More specifically, though, the HP lineup is probably at the top when it comes to versatile and relatively well-valued laptops. While there are quite a few variations and configurations of the HP Envy, we've gone ahead and put together the ones that we think will give you the most bang for your buck. That said, if you haven't found something you're specifically looking for, be sure to check out some of these other great laptop deals as well.
HP Envy x360 2-in-1 laptop 15Z-FH000 — $650, was $900

The HP Envy x360 convertible laptop is a great option for just about anyone, particularly anyone who enjoys the touchscreen functionality of a tablet. It’s well designed and super slim, making it a truly go-anywhere device. Despite its portability, it still has an immersive 15.6-inch touchscreen that’s great for creators, note-takers, and binge watchers. Top notch build quality and durability, fast charging technology, a fingerprint reader, and great battery life round out the top features of the HP Envy x360 convertible touchscreen laptop. It competes well with the best 2-in-1 laptops. Its versatility and all-around capability make it a worthy companion on any desk, and on any lap.

Read more
I use these simple printer tips to save money on ink and toner
Printing is fast and economical with the HP Smart Tank 7602.

The cost of a printer can range from under $100 for some good, low-cost inkjet printers to several hundred for the best color laser printers. However, the price you pay upfront doesn’t include paper, and the included ink and toner only lasts so long.

A bargain printer can end up costing you more overall if the cartridges are small and replacements are expensive. Follow these tips to minimize ink, toner, and paper waste, reducing the ongoing expense of using your printer in the long run.
Print in monochrome
Adobe Acrobat's print settings includes a grayscale option. Digital Trends

Read more