Now that daylight saving has come to an end, nights will be cooler and longer for the rest of the yearmeaning it's time to cozy up inside and listen to your favorite music. Vinyl has made a comeback in a big way (though to be honest, it never really left). As tech experts and music lovers know, nothing compares to listening to vinyl; the rich, clear, and decompressed sounds seem to make the music resonate more deeply than it would played from another medium.Also: Everything you need for a vinyl setupBut not all speakers were created equal, and not all speakers were created for vinyl. Experts and enthusiasts agree that the best speakers for listening to vinyl have specialized features, including multiple inputs, built-in phono preamps, and silk dome tweeters to ensure your records sound as crisp as possible. Impress your loved ones or enjoy your music solo with the best speakers for listening to vinyl.What are the best speakers for vinyl right now?As a vinyl enthusiast with a vintage setup, I combined my own hands-on experience, expert recommendations from music industry professionals, and extensive research to choose the best speakers for vinyl. My pick for the best vinyl speakers overall is the PSB Alpha iQ speakers due to their built-in phono preamp, crisp and loud sound, and EQ customizations. We also included speakers from brands like Paradigm, Edifier, Sonos, and more, so your vinyl collection sounds the way it should. Sort by All The best speakers for vinyl in 2024 Show less The standout feature of the PSB Alpha iQ speakers is their built-in phono preamp. Since vintage record players don't have a built-in phono preamp, you typically need a receiver to act as the preamp. If you have an older record player, these speakers eliminate the need for a receiver.While the Alpha iQ speakers are lauded for being ideal for a vintage setup, verified customers said also they loved the modern features like Bluetooth connectivity and Apple AirPlay technology to listen digitally. A handy companion app called BluOS lets you select the audio output, customize EQ settings, and connect to streaming services like Spotify. BluOS is a multi-room streaming platform that allows you to listen to vinyl through other BluOS-powered devices (like speakers from Bluesound and other makers).These bookshelf speakers can reach 180W of peak power (the most power on this list) and have a frequency response of 60 Hz20 kHz. The drivers are 4-inch mid-bass drivers paired with .75-inch aluminum dome tweeters, meaning great sound quality for such a compact speaker.I tested these speakers with my vintage setup and loved their full bass response and transparent sound. While not as room-filling as my floor-standing vintage Technics speakers, vinyl records sound crisp with the Aplha IQs. It was easy to set these speakers up and connect them, and I could switch quickly between listening to vinyl and one of my Spotify playlists.PSB Alpha iQ specs: Type:Bookshelf |Power:180W |Inputs:AUX, HDMI ARC port, Phono, Bluetooth|Frequency:60 Hz-20 kHz Pros Built-in phono preamp Useful BluOS app for EQ customizations Crisp and loud sound Cons Expensive The standout feature of the PSB Alpha iQ speakers is their built-in phono preamp. Since vintage record players don't have a built-in phono preamp, you typically need a receiver to act as the preamp. If you have an older record player, these speakers eliminate the need for a receiver.While the Alpha iQ speakers are lauded for being ideal for a vintage setup, verified customers said also they loved the modern features like Bluetooth connectivity and Apple AirPlay technology to listen digitally. A handy companion app called BluOS lets you select the audio output, customize EQ settings, and connect to streaming services like Spotify. BluOS is a multi-room streaming platform that allows you to listen to vinyl through other BluOS-powered devices (like speakers from Bluesound and other makers).These bookshelf speakers can reach 180W of peak power (the most power on this list) and have a frequency response of 60 Hz20 kHz. The drivers are 4-inch mid-bass drivers paired with .75-inch aluminum dome tweeters, meaning great sound quality for such a compact speaker.I tested these speakers with my vintage setup and loved their full bass response and transparent sound. While not as room-filling as my floor-standing vintage Technics speakers, vinyl records sound crisp with the Aplha IQs. It was easy to set these speakers up and connect them, and I could switch quickly between listening to vinyl and one of my Spotify playlists.PSB Alpha iQ specs: Type:Bookshelf |Power:180W |Inputs:AUX, HDMI ARC port, Phono, Bluetooth|Frequency:60 Hz-20 kHz Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less These bookshelf speakers provide a clear and balanced sound thanks to the tweeters' pure aluminum dome design, which blocks out unwanted frequencies. They can also be raised with a speaker stand (sold separately) to enhance their sound.Andy Fraser, a musician for over 15 years and the owner ofGuitar Inside Outpraises the Paradigm Monitor SE series for their well-built design, primarily because Paradigm builds all its speakers in-house."The attention to detail and quality can be clearly seen in the construction and assembly," Fraser said. "But more importantly, they sound great and so realistic. For someone like me who really focuses on the instruments, you can hear the musicianship and skill of every instrument being played."You can pair these speakers with other models in the Paradigm Monitor SE lineup, such as the Monitor SE 2000C Center Channel speaker. Reddit users say that these speakers shine when paired with other Paradigm devices.Paradigm Monitor SE tech specs:Type:Bookshelf/tweeter |Power:Up to 100W|Inputs: Binding post |Frequency:61-21k Hz 3dB Pros Relatively affordable Quality build Compact size Cons Lacking a bit in mid-range sound No subwoofer These bookshelf speakers provide a clear and balanced sound thanks to the tweeters' pure aluminum dome design, which blocks out unwanted frequencies. They can also be raised with a speaker stand (sold separately) to enhance their sound.Andy Fraser, a musician for over 15 years and the owner ofGuitar Inside Outpraises the Paradigm Monitor SE series for their well-built design, primarily because Paradigm builds all its speakers in-house."The attention to detail and quality can be clearly seen in the construction and assembly," Fraser said. "But more importantly, they sound great and so realistic. For someone like me who really focuses on the instruments, you can hear the musicianship and skill of every instrument being played."You can pair these speakers with other models in the Paradigm Monitor SE lineup, such as the Monitor SE 2000C Center Channel speaker. Reddit users say that these speakers shine when paired with other Paradigm devices.Paradigm Monitor SE tech specs:Type:Bookshelf/tweeter |Power:Up to 100W|Inputs: Binding post |Frequency:61-21k Hz 3dB Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less If you want speakers that can play podcasts in addition to your favorite records, the Kanto YU6 bookshelf speakers could be your best bet. Their versatility lies in their input options: AUX, RCA with Phono, optical, and Bluetooth, meaning you can use them for pretty much any setup.An included remote control also allows for adjustments to the volume, input, tone, and balance to better fine-tune your listening experience. Plus, they come in various colors including red, white, bamboo, and black for every aesthetic.Review:Kanto YU6ZDNET contributor Jack Wallen tested these speakers and said they exceeded his expectations. "The clarity (even at louder levels) was incredible," he wrote in his review. And, with the help of the remote, I could add a bit more bass or treble as needed."Reddit users recommend these speakers for audiophiles on a budget since they "sound fantastic for the price and have a ton of connections if you're not going through a receiver."Kanto YU6tech specs:Type:Bookshelf/tweeter |Power:Up to 100W|Inputs: 3.5mm mini-jack AUX, RCA with Phono Switch, 1x Optical (TOSLINK), Bluetooth 4.0 with Qualcomm aptX|Frequency:50Hz - 20kHz Pros Multiple connection and color options Included remote control Impressive sound Cons For the best bass sound, you'll need to add a subwoofer If you want speakers that can play podcasts in addition to your favorite records, the Kanto YU6 bookshelf speakers could be your best bet. Their versatility lies in their input options: AUX, RCA with Phono, optical, and Bluetooth, meaning you can use them for pretty much any setup.An included remote control also allows for adjustments to the volume, input, tone, and balance to better fine-tune your listening experience. Plus, they come in various colors including red, white, bamboo, and black for every aesthetic.Review:Kanto YU6ZDNET contributor Jack Wallen tested these speakers and said they exceeded his expectations. "The clarity (even at louder levels) was incredible," he wrote in his review. And, with the help of the remote, I could add a bit more bass or treble as needed."Reddit users recommend these speakers for audiophiles on a budget since they "sound fantastic for the price and have a ton of connections if you're not going through a receiver."Kanto YU6tech specs:Type:Bookshelf/tweeter |Power:Up to 100W|Inputs: 3.5mm mini-jack AUX, RCA with Phono Switch, 1x Optical (TOSLINK), Bluetooth 4.0 with Qualcomm aptX|Frequency:50Hz - 20kHz Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less For a more budget-friendly option, the Edifier R1280DB speakers are a great set at just $150. One Reddit user said these speakers "are nearly unmatched in quality for their price," and make a solid option for a minimalist setup.These bookshelf speakers have numerous connections: RCA, Bluetooth, auxiliary, optical, and coaxial. There is also an included remote control, but you can also adjust the equalization of treble and bass on the side panel knobs.The Edifier R1280DB speakers have 4-inch bass drivers and a 13mm silk dome tweeter. And, while the overall power is lower than other options (42 watts for both speakers), the sound quality is still good for the price.Edifier R1280DB tech specs: Type:Bookshelf |Power:42W |Input:RCA and Bluetooth |Frequency:55Hz-20KHz Pros Great price Easily control volume and EQ with knobs on speakers Plenty of connectivity options Cons Lower power packs less of a punch For a more budget-friendly option, the Edifier R1280DB speakers are a great set at just $150. One Reddit user said these speakers "are nearly unmatched in quality for their price," and make a solid option for a minimalist setup.These bookshelf speakers have numerous connections: RCA, Bluetooth, auxiliary, optical, and coaxial. There is also an included remote control, but you can also adjust the equalization of treble and bass on the side panel knobs.The Edifier R1280DB speakers have 4-inch bass drivers and a 13mm silk dome tweeter. And, while the overall power is lower than other options (42 watts for both speakers), the sound quality is still good for the price.Edifier R1280DB tech specs: Type:Bookshelf |Power:42W |Input:RCA and Bluetooth |Frequency:55Hz-20KHz Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at B&H Photo-Video If you want something smart home-friendly with superb sound quality, the Sonos Five is an excellent speaker compatible with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant for voice control.You can also easily control the bass, treble, and loudness through the Sonos App or Apple AirPlay 2. Sonos' Trueplay technology puts the speaker-tuning capability in your hands to adapt and optimize the speaker to a room's unique acoustics.The Sonos Five speaker packs quite the punch into just one speaker. It has six Class-D digital amplifiers tuned to match the six dedicated speaker drivers, which include three 23mm tweeters and three 4-inch mid-woofers. One Reddit user said that the Sonos Five speaker is "definitely a versatile and easy way to get into vinyl" for those looking to build a vinyl setup.In addition, you can pair two Sonos Five speakers together for even more immersive soundkeep in mind one speaker alone will cost you $549.Sonos Five tech specs: Type:All-in-one |Power:120W |Inputs:Bluetooth, 3.5mm audio|Frequency:50-60Hz Pros Smart home compatible Trueplay technology Six custom-designed drivers Cons Expensive for just one speaker (it will cost you even more if you want a pair) Truplay only works with iOS If you want something smart home-friendly with superb sound quality, the Sonos Five is an excellent speaker compatible with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant for voice control.You can also easily control the bass, treble, and loudness through the Sonos App or Apple AirPlay 2. Sonos' Trueplay technology puts the speaker-tuning capability in your hands to adapt and optimize the speaker to a room's unique acoustics.The Sonos Five speaker packs quite the punch into just one speaker. It has six Class-D digital amplifiers tuned to match the six dedicated speaker drivers, which include three 23mm tweeters and three 4-inch mid-woofers. One Reddit user said that the Sonos Five speaker is "definitely a versatile and easy way to get into vinyl" for those looking to build a vinyl setup.In addition, you can pair two Sonos Five speakers together for even more immersive soundkeep in mind one speaker alone will cost you $549.Sonos Five tech specs: Type:All-in-one |Power:120W |Inputs:Bluetooth, 3.5mm audio|Frequency:50-60Hz Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon While all the other vinyl speakers listed above are bookshelf speakers, these floor-standing speakers might be the perfect statement piece. The Triangle Borea BR08 floor-standing speakers tower is just over three feet high and can fill a room with sound ranging from 65 to 131 square feet, making it the perfect option for larger rooms or homes.These speakers have four drivers, a 25mm EFS silk dome tweets, and a 16cm midrange. Their three-way configuration diffuses all frequencies without interference between the transducers, producing clear voices and instruments.You'll have to shell out well over $1,000 to get this pair of turntable speakers, but when you have both for your vinyl setup, verified Amazon customers say that the layered and cohesive sound blew them away.Triangle Borea BR08 tech specs:Type:Floor-standing |Power:150W |Inputs:N/A |Frequency:40Hz-22kHz Pros Great sound quality in highs, mids, and lows Solid build Cons Best for larger rooms Expensive for just one speaker, and you'll need two for full sound While all the other vinyl speakers listed above are bookshelf speakers, these floor-standing speakers might be the perfect statement piece. The Triangle Borea BR08 floor-standing speakers tower is just over three feet high and can fill a room with sound ranging from 65 to 131 square feet, making it the perfect option for larger rooms or homes.These speakers have four drivers, a 25mm EFS silk dome tweets, and a 16cm midrange. Their three-way configuration diffuses all frequencies without interference between the transducers, producing clear voices and instruments.You'll have to shell out well over $1,000 to get this pair of turntable speakers, but when you have both for your vinyl setup, verified Amazon customers say that the layered and cohesive sound blew them away.Triangle Borea BR08 tech specs:Type:Floor-standing |Power:150W |Inputs:N/A |Frequency:40Hz-22kHz Read More Show Expert Take Show less What are the best speakers for vinyl? The best speakers for vinyl are the PSB Alpha iQ speakers based on sound quality, price, and power. However, these speakers would also be a great addition to any vinyl setup. SpeakerPriceFrequency responsePowerPSB Alpha iQ $1,299 60Hz-20kHz 180W Paradigm Monitor SE Atom $300 61-21k Hz 3dB 100W Kanto YU6$48050Hz - 20kHz100W Edifier R1280DB $150 55Hz-20kHz 42W Sonos Five $550 50Hz-60Hz 120W Triangle Borea BR08 $549 40Hz 22kHz 150W Show more Which speakers for vinyl are right for you? It really depends on what your current vinyl setup looks like. If you have a vintage record player, the PSB Alpha iQ or the Triangle Borea BR08 would make for great speakers. Newer turntables would pair well with the Sonos Five, Paradigm Monitor SE Atom, or the Edifier R1280DB. Choose these speakers...If you want...PSB Alpha iQ The best overall option. They have built-in phono preamp for a vintage vinyl setup, and an app for EQ customizations. Paradigm Monitor SE Atom A well-designed pair of speakers for vinyl. These bookshelf speakers provide a clear and balanced sound. Kanto YU6A pair of versatile speakers that can connect to almost any setup. They come with an included remote to fine-tune the sound.Edifier R1280DB Budget-friendly speakers for vinyl. These bookshelf speakers have numerous connections: RCA, Bluetooth, auxiliary, optical, and coaxial. Sonos Five Speakers for vinyl that are compatible with your smart home devices. You can also easily control the bass, treble, and loudness through the Sonos App or Apple AirPlay 2. Triangle Borea BR08 Floor-standing speakers for vinyl. These speakers tower at just over three feet and can fill a room with sound ranging from 65-131 square feet. Show more Factors to consider when choosing the best speakers for vinyl: Choosing the best speakers for vinyl is essential since they will ultimately determine how your music sounds. Ultimately, it comes down to the following factors:Power:This refers to the maximum power a speaker can handle without causing damage. The higher the wattage, the better and louder the speakers usually sound.Frequency:A speaker's frequency response is measured in hertz and represents how well it can reproduce the audible range of sound. Most speakers are capable of responding from around 45-20,000 Hz.Inputs:Consider speakers that offer different kinds of inputs so you can have options for how you want to listen to your music and vinyl collection. Speakers for vinyl usually have RCA inputs.Pricing:Speakers for vinyl greatly range in price depending on the brand, quality, and overall sound. They typically range from $150 a pair up to splurge-worthy setups costing $700 per pair. Show more How did we choose these speakers for vinyl? When choosing the best speakers for vinyl, I considered my own experience with some of the products and my knowledge of vinyl and building out a vinyl listening setup, as well as spoke to music industry experts on their take of what the best speakers are.For products we have not gone hands-on with, we put extensive research into different products and brands, taking into consideration user reviews (both good and bad), competitor analysis, and more. Show more FAQs on speakers for vinyl How do you get the best sound for your vinyl? Getting the best sound quality out of your vinyl collection is more than just having the best speakers for vinyl. Here are some tips to truly level up your listening experience:Make sure your turntable is level. Make sure your turntable's cartridge and stylus are working correctly, and if necessary, replace or upgrade them.Store your records correctlyvertically, not horizontally! Clean your records every so often. Show more What is a frequency response? Frequency response determines how well and clearly a sound can be reproduced by the speakers. It is measured in hertz (Hz). Look for a wider frequency response, especially close to 20Hz - 20,000kHz.Also: The best sound systems Show more Why does my vinyl sound fuzzy? A fuzzy or muffled noise when playing a vinyl record isn't the speakers' fault, but a problem with a turntable's stylus. The stylus is most likely damaged or worn down. To fix this issue, first try cleaning the stylus from dust with a small brush to see if that solves it. If it still sounds fuzzy, you should replace the stylus with a new one. Show more Can you use Bluetooth speakers for vinyl? Bluetooth speakers will only work if you have a Bluetooth turntable. If you opt for this route, you'll be able to use more speaker options, but keep in mind you might not get as good of sound as wired speakers. Show more What is the best record player? The best record player for listening to vinyl is the Audio-Technica LP120, but we also recommend the Fluance RT81 Elite or the Pro-Ject Phono SB.Try to avoid Crosley Cruiser Turntable models since they are known to ruin your records. However, higher-end Crosley turntables are still a decent option you can look into. Show more Other speakers for vinyl worth consideringThere are plenty of other quality speakers on the market that would make great speakers for vinyl. Here are a few other options to look into:Meet the experts ZDNET sourced an external industry expert for this article. Here is more information about him:Andy Fraser: A musician for over 20 years who also teaches music, and the owner ofGuitar Inside Out, an advice blog about guitars. Show more Further ZDNET Tech Coverage Smartphones Smartwatches Tablets Laptops TVs Other Tech Resources ZDNET Recommends

The Sennheiser Accentum earbuds are a best in class for their price. Jack Wallen/ZDNETWhat's the deal?The Sennheiser Accentum True Wireless Earbuds have received a 35% discount on Amazon. At the time of this writing, you can purchase the pair for $130 in either black or white.ZDNET's key takeawaysThe Sennheiser Accentum True Wireless earbuds are available on Amazon for $199.These earbuds offer brilliant, rich sound with all-day comfort and excellent active noise canceling.However, they only get around eight hours of playtime (with ANC off).I've been a fan of Sennheiser for a long time, starting decades ago when I bought one of my first audiophile-grade headphones. I loved their high-quality sound and appreciated the engineering that went into a well-made pair of headphones. Since then, however, that relationship has seen its share of ups and downs.Also:The best noise-canceling earbuds: Expert tested and reviewedOne instance involved a less-than-stellar pair of earbuds that offered tinny, hollow sound, too-delicate wires, and lack of substance. But that didn't sour my opinion of the company because every time they hit a home run, it is so far out of the park that the ball is forever lost. details View at Amazon Such is the case with the Accentum True Wireless earbuds. When I opened the package and flipped the lid on the clamshell case, my first impression was that they looked sleek, but there wasn't really anything that stood out design-wise.Then, I connected them to my Pixel 8 Pro and launched "Analog Kid" by Rush, my go-to tune when I test earbuds, earphones, and speakers. It took me eight measures to realize Sennheiser had done it again. These earbuds are just fantastic.More on that in a bit. First, the specs:Sennheiser Accentum True Wireless earbuds tech specsDriver type: 7mm dynamicFrequency response: 5 Hz - 21 KHzSensitivity: 107 dBSpeaker THD: <0,08% (1 kHz / 94 dB)Hybrid noise-canceling circuitry with dual micsTransparency mode to hear external soundsBluetooth 5.3 (with LE audio and Auracast support)aptX, LC3, ACC, SBC decodingIP54 water resistant (earbuds only)Six hours of continuous playback with noise canceling on (eight hours with noise canceling off) and an additional 20 hours from the charging caseWireless charging supportWeight: 0.5 ozI compare every pair of earbuds I test to the Denon PerL Pro, which is still the best-sounding pair I've heard to date, and sells for around $350. Given that the Accentum buds cost roughly $150 less, it was a safe bet they wouldn't stand up to the PerL Pro.They did.I'm not going to say they beat the PerL Pro on every level, but this was as close as any I've tested. The Accentum earbuds offer deep, rich sound with a soundstage to best any earbud at this price point.Also: These $80 earbuds changed my mind about low-cost headphonesUsually, with similarly priced earbuds, I have to install the companion app on my phone to adjust the EQ to get them to achieve a sound profile that accommodates my taste. With the Accentum buds, the default sound was fantastic. They reproduced just the right mixture of lows, mids, and highs to create a state of aural bliss. And no matter what piece of music I threw at these earbuds, they didn't blink and produced smooth and beautiful noise for my ears to enjoy."Analog Kid" by Rush sounded agile, with beautiful separation and tone."Halcyon and On" by Orbital was heavenly."Kingdom" by Devin Townsend was as brutal and dynamic as a prog metal song can be."Adagio for Strings" by Samuel Barber was just the right amount of heartbreak and zero distortion at the end of the first movement (which is a feat)."The Road Home" by Stephen PaulusI could close my eyes and feel as if I were right there before the choir.I can't praise the sound produced by these earbuds enough. But that wasn't the only thing to catch my attention. If there's one area where the Accentum earbuds outrank the Denon PerL Pro, it's comfort.Also: This small Bluetooth speaker is secretly a powerhouse with room-shaking audioThe Accentum earbuds fit perfectly, and can be worn for extended periods of time without issue. Because of how the Denon earbuds fit, they can put slight pressure on the back of the ear after an hour or two, so I only wear them when I know I'm having a short listening session. On the other hand, the Accentum buds have a natural and relaxed fit, and they feel as comfortable when you take them out as they did when you first put them in.As far as the noise canceling is concerned, I didn't bother testing the transparency mode because the ANC on these earbuds is fantastic. As soon as the music started playing, all sounds were drowned out and it was just me and the tunes. This ANC beats every pair of earbuds I've tested to date (even the Pixel Buds Pro).ZDNET's buying adviceIf you're choosy about how your earbuds' sound and are looking for an unrivaled fit, the Sennheiser Accentum earbuds are the way to go. At a price considerably lower than other earbuds with this high-quality sound, you cannot beat these.Yes, you can certainly find earbuds that sound a bit better than the Accentum buds, but you'll likely be paying at least $100 more for them. If that's not in your budget, you won't be sacrificing much with the Accentum earbuds, and there's no denying these are the most comfortable earbuds out there.Also:I tested Sennheiser's new mid-range headphones and they're so close to perfectThe Accentum buds' only drawback is their battery life. Eight hours is on par with other premium earbuds, but I'd like to squeeze out a little more juice. Still, I'll take an entire day's worth of battery life in exchange for great sound, high-performing noise-canceling tech, and all-day comfort.Featured reviews

Botnet Cyber Security Alert Concept. gettyMeet Sarah. She is a non-tech-savvy professional juggling work, family, and the occasional late-night Netflix binge. But one morning, her internet slowed to a crawl, her smart fridge kept rebooting, and her bank sent an email about suspicious activity. Unbeknownst to her, her refrigerator had been recruited into a botneta network of hacked devicesused by cybercriminals to launch attacks.Botnets, composed of ordinary devices like phones, smart thermostats, or webcams, are a growing threat. They allow attackers to harness the power of thousands of devices, often without their owners ever realizing.But do not worry; protecting yourself does not require a computer science degree. This guide will arm you with practical steps to defend your digital life.The Anatomy Of A Botnet AttackThink of a botnet as a zombie army of devices controlled by a hacker. The devices are infected with malware that lets the hacker use them remotely. Hackers use botnets to:Launch DDoS attacks, overwhelming websites with excessive traffic, ultimately causing them to crash.Send spam emails or spread viruses.Steal sensitive information like passwords or bank details.The tricky thing is your device might look and act normal while being part of a botnet. This makes prevention all the more important.MORE FOR YOUHow Do Devices Get Infected?Botnets begin with recruitment. Cybercriminals exploit weak passwords, outdated software, and phishing schemes to gain control of your devices. For example, they might trick you into clicking a malicious link, or they could infiltrate your insecure Wi-Fi network.Why target regular consumers? Scale and anonymity. A single hacked smart speaker might seem insignificant, but multiply that by thousands, and attackers gain massive computing power for launching cyberattacks, sending spam, or stealing dataall while remaining hidden behind your IP address.Hackers use a variety of methods to turn your gadgets into botnet zombies. Here is how:Clicking on Suspicious Links: Emails or messages containing malicious links can lead to infection if clicked.Downloading Unverified Apps or Software: Fake apps or software downloads can carry hidden malware.Using Weak Passwords or Default Credentials: Hackers exploit common passwords like "admin1234" or default settings left unchanged.Leaving Devices Unprotected: A lack of antivirus or firewall tools leaves your devices exposed.Ignoring Software Updates: Outdated software often has vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit.Signs Your Device Might Be Part Of A BotnetDespite your best efforts, no system is 100% hack-proof. Watch out for these red flags:Your device lags or overheats even when not in use.Unusual spikes in your internet usage.Apps open or close on their own, or you notice unfamiliar software installed.If you suspect your device is infected, run a malware scan immediately and consider resetting your device to factory settings.Your Cybersecurity Action Plan Secure Your Home NetworkYour Wi-Fi is the gateway to your devices, so securing it is crucial. Use a strong, unique password for your network, and change the default router settings immediately after setup. Enable WPA3 encryption if your router supports it, and consider hiding your network's name (SSID) from public view. Be Smart About IoT DevicesInternet of Things devices like smart light bulbs and fitness trackers are convenient but often vulnerable. Choose products from reputable brands with a track record of security updates. Turn off unneeded features, such as remote access, unless they are essential for your use. And always change default passwordsit is your first line of defense against unauthorized access. Use Password ManagersCreating strong, unique passwords for every online account can feel overwhelming, but a password manager simplifies the task. These tools generate and store secure passwords, ensuring you are never reusing credentials. Stay UpdatedOutdated software and firmware are a hacker's dream. Set your devices to update automatically whenever possible, and periodically check for updates manually. This includes everything from your phone to your smart TV. Beware Of PhishingPhishing emails, texts, and calls aim to trick you into revealing sensitive information. Be skeptical of unsolicited messages asking for personal details or urgent actions. Verify directly with the company or individual before responding. Do not click on links from unknown senders or download files from untrusted websites. Delete any email that seems suspicious without opening it. Download apps only from official stores like Google Play or the App Store. Set Up Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)MFA provides an additional layer of protection for your accounts. Even if hackers steal your password, they will need a second code (usually sent to your phone) to access your account. Turn on MFA for email, banking, and social media accounts. Use Antivirus SoftwareGood antivirus software can detect and remove malware before it turns your device into a botnet zombie. Research trusted antivirus programs like Norton, McAfee, or free options like Avast. Turn Off Devices When Not In Use Idle devices connected to the internet can still be hacked. Turn off gadgets like smart TVs, printers, or home assistants when you are not using them.

This unassuming personality trait can do wonders in boosting your attractiveness, according to ... [+] recent psychological research. Heres how you can express it to others.gettyWhen you think of what makes a person attractive, what comes to mind? Is it their eyes, their smile or their body type? Perhaps its the way they dress or carry themselves that catches your eye.You may also be drawn to something less physical, like their intelligence or humor. However, according to a study published this September in the British Journal of Social Psychology, these traits pale in comparison to one otherkindness.Heres how researchers Natalia Kononov and Danit Ein-Gar discovered that this single, highly unassuming personality trait leads to being perceived as more attractive than others.How Kindness Makes You More AttractiveThe inspiration for the study was simple. Often, we use beauty metaphorically to describe admirable inner qualities, saying someone is beautiful on the inside, explains lead author Natalia Kononov, in an interview with PsyPost. She continues, I was curious to see if this perception has a basis in reality.The researchers were most interested in Whether kindness and generosity, qualities associated with inner beauty, actually influence how we perceive someones physical attractiveness, Kononov explains. To empirically test whether inner beauty indeed outshines its outer counterpart, they conducted ten studies with 4,192 participants.MORE FOR YOUSpecifically, they explored how prosocialitythat is, the tendency to act in ways that benefit othersinfluences beauty evaluations. In the initial studies, participants rated the kindness and physical beauty of targets who were described either as volunteering for charitable causes (such as volunteering at soup kitchens, or packaging food for the needy) or as neutral.In later studies, they tested whether consistent prosocial behavior, as a stable trait, was more impactful than a single prosocial act, or none at all. They also compared prosociality with other desirable traits, like humor and intelligence, to see which influenced perceived beauty most.One study even used photos of the same personmodified to include either a scar, misaligned teeth, thicker eyebrows or a moleand tested whether prosocial descriptions enhanced beauty ratings, regardless of physical features.The findings were consistent across the boardprosocial behavior gave rise to higher ratings of physical attractiveness. As Kononov concludes, Our findings suggest this association isnt just metaphorical; beautiful acts do, indeed, lead us to see people as more beautiful. Most interestingly, Kononov noted that this association was also consistent across genders too.These findings make it abundantly clear that kindness and generosity are unprecedented in their allure, not just for those who receive them, but also for the way others perceive you. While physical appearance often feels like the most visible marker of attractiveness, this study reminds us that what truly captivates others comes from within.The good news is that you dont need grand gestures to make a meaningful impact. Everyday actions, so long as they are grounded in kindness, allow your inner beauty to shine.Here are three simple yet wholesome ways to express more kindness in your daily interactions, according to research.1. Random Acts Of KindnessThink about the last time someone surprised you with a small, unexpected act of kindness. Perhaps it was a stranger who let you cut in line when you were in a hurry, or a friend who left you an encouraging note on a tough day. These momentsdespite how seemingly minor they appearwill almost always leave a lasting impression due to how authentic and heartfelt they are.Engaging in random acts of kindnesswhether its paying for someones coffee, leaving a generous tip or simply complimenting a strangercommunicates how attuned to the world you are.The beauty of this is that kindness is often contagious; your one small good deed could unwittingly inspire so many others. A 2023 study from the Journal of Experimental Psychology: General confirms this; the authors note that kindness goes an unexpectedly long way, as we often underestimate how heartwarming these acts are for those on the receiving end.Above all, Kononov and Ein-Gars research demonstrates that kindness can fundamentally shift how people view you, by adding profound depth and warmth to others perception of your character. The key is to let these gestures happen naturallywith no expectation of recognitionas true kindness shines brightest when its freely given, in liberal doses.2. HelpfulnessHelping others is one of the most potent ways to express inner beauty. Offering to support someonebe it a friend struggling with a task, a neighbor who needs a hand or a colleague overwhelmed with worksignals that youre dependable and emotionally generous.This isnt to say that you need to fix everyones problems for them, or that you need to overextend yourself for others sake. Rather, its more so about indicating to others that, no matter when or why, you are a person who can at least be approached to lend a helping hand when youre able to, and that you genuinely care about easing someone elses burden.Research from the British Journal of Psychology suggests that altruism also gives rise to trust and admirationqualities which are deeply tied to attractiveness. The next time someone hints at needing assistance, take it as an opportunity to strengthen your relationship, while also letting your kindness speak for itself. Even small acts, like sharing advice or lending a tool, can make a big difference.3. CooperationCooperation may not be the first thing that comes to mind when we think about kindness, but its a powerful way to let your charm shine. When you work collaboratively, whether its within a team at work, while planning an event with others or even during a game night with friends, you showcase patience, empathy and a willingness to listen.Research shows that cooperative individuals are seen as approachable, trustworthy and emotionally intelligent. This is because cooperation requires putting aside ones ego and prioritizing collective goals over personal ones, which is another quality that naturally draws others in.If you find yourself in a group setting, make it a point to be the person who contributes to harmony; always vie to make note of others contributions and offer solutions when challenges arise. People are naturally attracted to those who make working together a positive and productive experience, and this perception of kindness will elevate how they see you.When you do good, you look goodbut you also feel good, which may be the most important of all. Relationships thrive when we connect with others based on who we are, and when we can look in the mirror and truly like what we see, inside-out.Humor goes a long way in displaying kindness and connecting with others. Take this science-backed test to find out if your humor style favors attraction and affiliation: Affiliative Humor Style Scale

In a nutshell: Venmo rival Zelle has become popular with fraudsters. To make matters worse, the company and participating banks allegedly do little to protect users. A consumer protection group has filed a lawsuit that, depending on the outcome, could have far-reaching implications for the digital payments industry. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has filed a lawsuit against the peer-to-peer payment network Zelle and three US banks that conduct or facilitate transactions on the platform. The suit alleges that the defendants failed to investigate fraud complaints and provide proper reimbursement to victims.The CFPB claims that customers of JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo have suffered losses exceeding $870 million since Zelle's inception in 2017. Zelle's operator, Early Warning Services (EWS), contests the total damages, arguing that it includes cases that were not found to involve actual fraud after investigation."The nation's largest banks felt threatened by competing payment apps, so they rushed to put out Zelle," CFPB Director Rohit Chopra criticized. "By their failing to put in place proper safeguards, Zelle became a gold mine for fraudsters, while often leaving victims to fend for themselves."The lawsuit claims that the banks and Zelle rushed to market without implementing adequate user protections against what the CFPB describes as "widespread" fraud. The regulatory agency alleges that hundreds of thousands of customers filed fraud complaints but were denied assistance, with some even being advised to contact the fraudsters directly to recover their funds.Zelle has over 143 million American users and processes billions of dollars in transactions annually. It denies the CFPB's accusations. Company spokeswoman Jane Khodos defended Zelle's anti-fraud efforts, asserting its leadership is actively combating scams and noting that its reimbursement policies exceed legal requirements. She also criticized the CFPB's stance, arguing that it would inadvertently benefit criminals, increase consumer costs, hinder small businesses, and impede competition for numerous community banks and credit unions.The lawsuit has sparked a heated debate about the responsibilities of financial institutions in the digital age. While the CFPB argues that banks have been slow to address vulnerabilities in their systems, the institutions listed in the lawsuit maintain that they actively work to prevent fraud. JPMorgan Chase, for instance, claims it stops nearly $20 billion in fraud attempts each year, with 99.95% of its transactions completed without dispute. // Related StoriesThis legal action comes in the wake of increasing scrutiny from lawmakers and consumer advocates regarding the security of peer-to-peer payment platforms.In the summer of 2023, EWS, responding to mounting pressure from lawmakers, initiated a new policy to reimburse victims of certain types of fraud, particularly those involving imposter scams. This change marked a notable shift in approach, as previously, banks had been reluctant to compensate customers tricked into authorizing payments to scammers.Early Warning Services enacted the new policy at the end of June. It focuses on what EWS termed "qualifying imposter scams." These typically involved fraudsters posing as legitimate entities such as government agencies, financial institutions, or service providers to deceive users into sending money. However, EWS has been vague about its details, declining to publicly disclose the total amount it planned to refund or provide a detailed timeline for these reimbursements.

I scoffed when MSI put the Claw 8 AI+ in my hands with Black Myth: Wukong selected. Id spent 80 hours in the game on my full desktop packing an RTX 4090, and I knew just how demanding the game was. Its a pipedream for a handheld gaming PC.I pressed Continueand loaded up at the Pool of Shattered Jade rest point the ideal spot to farm; if you know, you know and proceeded to run up to the cocoons spotted around the area, unleash my spirit ability, and run back. Sitting in a dimly-lit New York City bar, I continued the loop a few more times. Id done plenty of farming in the game before.Recommended VideosAnd thats when I realized I was fully in the zone, just playing Black Myth: Wukong forgetting that it was on a handheld. The game didnt look perfect, and it wasnt locked to 60 frames per second (fps). But here I was playing one of the most demanding games of the year on a device that I could have brought with me on the plane ride over.Get your weekly teardown of the tech behind PC gaming Before things get too rosy, its important to remember the context. The original MSI Claw, which I gave a measly review score of 5/10, was a bit of a mess. In my MSI Claw review, I wrote it isnt worth your time, and certainly isnt worth your money. More expensive than the competition, and with inconsistent performance to boot, the MSI Claw was a certified failure.RelatedBut the MSI Claw AI 8+ is a shot at handheld redemption with one of Intels new, souped-up Lunar Lake chips, and based on that chip alone, I wouldnt blame you for having a hint of cautious optimism.MSIWith this new handheld, MSI is really targeting the Asus ROG Ally X. In addition to the Core Ultra 258V chip and 32GB of LPDDR5x memory Lunar Lake is a system-on-a-chip (SoC), so 24GB isnt possible the handheld comes packed with an 8-inch 1200p screen, Hall Effect joysticks, an 80Whr battery, dual Thunderbolt 4 ports, and Wi-Fi 7. On paper, at least, the Claw 8 AI+ outclasses the ROG Ally X point-for-point.MSI claims that it outclasses the ROG Ally X on performance, too. At 17W, MSI says its handheld is 20% faster on average, and out of the box with MSIs dynamic AI Engine power setting, the company claims its 28% faster. Even more impressive, MSI claims that it offers 7% higher performance at 17W compared to the ROG Ally X at 30W, and it manages 44% longer battery life.MSIBold claims, but weve seen bold claims from MSI before. Im holding out judgement until the handheld is actually here, and I suggest you do the same. With the original MSI Claw, the handheld would often consume more power and offer less performance when compared to the original ROG Ally, so MSI has a lot of work to do.Still, I was able to play a bit ofBlack Myth: Wukong,and that alone is impressive. Not impressive enough to earn a recommendation, but impressive even to catch my interest. Hopefully MSIs performance claims actually hold up once the handheld is out in the wild.MSI has two versions of this handheld coming the Claw 8 AI+ and the Claw 7 AI+, the latter of which uses the shell of the original MSI Claw but the guts of the Claw 8 AI+. Theyre priced at $899 and $799, respectively, so MSI has to not only match what Asus is offering with the ROG Ally X; it has to go further with the higher price point.Jacob Roach / Digital TrendsWhat makes me nervous is the release. Both handhelds are available for preorder now, and theyll go on sale officially on December 26. MSI tells me that there wont be any reviews available on release day. Just like the original Claw, MSI is releasing the handheld at retail without any review program with media.That means the first impressions youll get are from people rolling the dice with their own money. Thats usually a red flag in the world of tech launches. Either way, it should go without saying that if youre interested in the Claw 8 AI+, Id wait a while after it releases to see what independent reviewers have to say.Editors Recommendations

DC Extended Universe auteur Zack Snyder may have gotten the chance to release his original version of Justice League back in 2021, but a similar opportunity has not yet been extended to Suicide Squad director David Ayer. The filmmakers 2016 comic book movie was, like Snyders Justice League, heavily tampered with behind the scenes, and Ayer has remained adamant that the version of Suicide Squad that was theatrically released differs greatly from his original, preferred iteration.The ongoing wait for a release of his cut of Suicide Squadhasnt stopped Ayer, however, from publicly voicing his support for DC Studios co-CEO James Gunns Superman. On December 17, Ayer asked fans not to divert any attention away from the release of the first Superman trailerby launching another Suicide Squad campaign in his honor, writing, Im excited to see the trailer and have heard through the rumor mill its pretty incredible. His tweet was, unfortunately, met with negativity from certain fans, who took issue with the courtesy he was trying to extend to Gunn and, by extension, DC Studios new DC Universe.Recommended VideosIn response, Ayer defended his actions and expressed dismay over some of the replies he received. If supporting another film maker is so contentious, Im just lost at this point, he wrote on X. I cannot fing wait to see Jame[s]s trailer. Real talk. And I cannot wait to see his film. And absolutely am sure he crushed it. Because that simple optimism of Superman is all over it. And the little kid in me needs that right now. He finished his tweet by announcing, Gonna step back from all this for a moment.Superman | Official Teaser TrailerOver the past few years, Snyderverse fans, as well as Ayer himself, have consistently and passionately called for the release of his original, intended version of Suicide Squad, even as Warner Bros. has worked hard to leave the DCEU in its rear view mirror. A year ago, Ayer notably told Total Film that he believes his version of Suicide Squad will eventually see the light of day, too, predicting, Its coming. Somethings going to happen. Somethings going to be revealed. The truth always comes out.Please enable Javascript to view this contentIn August 2023, Ayer also wrote on X, All I know is my unseen film plays much better than the studio release. The interest in my cut being show[n] seems real and organic. And Gunn told me it would have its time to be shared.RelatedOnly time will tell whether or not Ayers cut of Suicide Squad is ever actually unveiled publicly. For his part, he seems content, if a bit understandably disappointed, to wait and see how the future unfolds. The Beekeeper director has, at least, made it clear that he isnt letting the uncertainty surrounding his Suicide Squad cut get in the way of his enthusiasm for Gunn and his still-fledgling DC Universe, and he doesnt want fans to let it, either.James Gunns Superman is set to hit theaters on July 11, 2025.Editors Recommendations

When iOS 18.2 released just over a week ago, it unlocked a lot of long-awaited features like Image Playground, Visual Intelligence, and improvements to writing tools. Now it seems like another update could be just around the corner: version 18.2.1.MacRumors found evidence of the update in their analytic logs, a source that has supposedly revealed quite a few iOS versions before release. Given that this is a minor update, it isnt likely to come with new features or anything groundbreaking. Instead, it will most likely be targeted at bug fixes, although no specific problems have been named. You should expect this update to drop either in late December or early January, but a year-end release is more likely.Recommended VideosiOS 18.3 is also in development, with developers and beta testers putting the system through the motions. Given that its due to release in January, an update to the existing version of iOS especially one likely meant to act as a hotfix instead of a major update will probably release sooner rather than later.Bryan M. Wolfe / Digital TrendsSince the last update, iPhone 18.2 users have reported a few concerning bugs, including an uncomfortable amount of heat production. The new Apple Intelligence features put a strain on the iPhones hardware, so an update like this might include a way to reduce the load on older iPhones that arent equipped for it.Please enable Javascript to view this contentBefore Apple releases a software update, its tested internally on company devices. That way, developers are able to identify any potentially critical errors and correct them before the update goes live. Since 18.2.1 has appeared in analytics, its highly likely that it will release soon.Editors Recommendations

Pantomimes, or "pantos," are plays performed around Christmastime in the UK.Pantomime dames playing the role of the Ugly Sisters in a production of Cinderella. Gideon Mendel/Corbis/Getty Images Pantos are humorous, slapstick entertainment for the whole family, often featuring men dressed in drag. They are sometimes based on a famous fairy tale or story, like "Cinderella," "Peter Pan," or "The Wizard of Oz."Pantomimes rely on specific tropes. For example, there's often a villain who will sneak up on the protagonist intermittently throughout the play. It's then the role of the audience to scream, "He's behind you!" to the main character while he or she struggles to figure out what's going on. Yorkshire puddings are perfect with gravy, but people outside the UK may have never heard of them.A traditional British roast dinner with Yorkshire puddings. Shutterstock A traditional British roast dinner wouldn't be complete without Yorkshire puddings filled with Bisto or homemade gravy. Yorkshire puddings not to be confused with sweet puddings are made of eggs, flour, and milk or water.After they're cooked in hot oil in the oven, they end up with a distinct hole in the middle. They closely resemble what Americans know as popovers.While Yorkshire puddings are commonplace at Sunday dinners throughout the year, they're also eaten at Christmastime, though some argue they have no place on a Christmas plate. Santa Claus is referred to as "Father Christmas."Santa Claus. Hasloo Group Production Studio/Shutterstock While some do refer to old Saint Nick as Santa Claus in the UK, it is widely accepted that Father Christmas is his more traditionally British name."Santa Claus" is seen as an Americanism, and The Telegraph reported that even the British National Trust said that "Santa Claus should be known as 'Father Christmas' in stately homes and historic buildings because the name is more British."British children hang Christmas stockings at the ends of their bed.A child on Christmas morning. Altrendo Images/Getty Images In America, Christmas stockings are hung by the fireplace with care. However, some British children hang their stockings at the ends of their beds for Father Christmas to fill up while they're sleeping. Christmas Eve is a time for school-friend reunions.Festive people drinking in a pub in Bath, England. Matt Cardy/Getty Images Thanksgiving weekend is seen as an opportunity in the United States for students to reunite with friends from high school or middle school. In the UK, it's a tradition for school friends to come together on Christmas Eve, often at the local bar or pub. Christmas pudding is a traditional British dessert popular during the holiday season.Christmas pudding. Shutterstock A Christmas pudding is a dense fruit cake often made weeks or even months in advance. This time allows the dried fruit to soak up alcohol that's regularly poured onto the cake in the weeks before it's consumed.On Christmas, the cake is set alight and then topped with a sauce of brandy butter or rum butter, cream, lemon cream, ice cream, custard, or sweetened bchamel. It is also sometimes sprinkled with caster or powdered sugar.For many years, Queen Elizabeth II even gifted each member of her staff a Christmas pudding from Tesco. Another dessert of choice is Christmas cake, a rich fruit cake covered with marzipan and icing.Christmas cake. nelea33/Shutterstock While fruit cake is certainly a polarizing dessert wherever you are, Brits seem to make it a little better with thick, sweet white icing.Oftentimes, Christmas cake also comes topped with festive holly decorations. Mince pies are pastries filled with dried fruits and spices that are eaten at Christmas.Mince pies. Getty Images The BBC reported that the first-known mince-pie recipe dates back to an 1830s-era English cookbook. By the mid-17th century, people reportedly began associating the small pies with Christmas.At the time, they were traditionally filled with pork or other kinds of meat, sage, and other spices. Nowadays, the pies are filled with dried fruits and sugar powder. British Christmas desserts are often enjoyed with brandy butter.Christmas pudding and brandy butter. Monkey Business Images/Shutterstock The perfect accompaniment to Christmas pudding and mince pies, brandy butter consists of butter and sugar beaten together before brandy is added. Rum butter is an alternative.The result is still butter-like in consistency, and it's served cold alongside desserts. Americans might know it as "hard sauce."Brits say "Happy Christmas" instead of "Merry Christmas.""Merry Christmas" lit-up sign. Johnnie Pakington/Getty Images You might remember a scene from the first "Harry Potter" movie in which Ron says, "Happy Christmas, Harry!" While this may sound strange to an American, saying "Happy Christmas" is commonplace in the UK, as opposed to "Merry Christmas." Christmas crackers are cardboard tubes wrapped in brightly colored paper and twisted at each end that two people pull for a fun surprise.Girl pulling a Christmas cracker at the dinner table. PeopleImages/Getty Images Christmas crackers are often pulled at the start of the meal, and the paper hats found inside are worn throughout the meal. Also inside each cracker is a "banger," which makes a loud pop when the cracker is pulled, a joke, and a small prize.The jokes are usually cheesy and festive. For example: "Why did Santa's helper go to the doctor? Because he had low elf esteem!"However, be sure not to pack them if you're traveling to or from the UK on an airplane they're not permitted to go through TSA in carry-on luggage. "Top of the Pops" is a television special featuring performances of the year's most popular songs.A stage with the "Top of the Pops" logo. Phil Dent/Redferns/Getty Images On Christmas, the BBC usually runs a holiday special of the since-retired show "Top of the Pops," whichfeatures performances from the year's most popular musicians.The programran weekly from 1964 until 2006, when it was canceled. People were so upset that the BBC decided to keep the Christmas special,which airs late in the morningon December 25. Millions of people watch the King's annual televised Christmas Day speech every year.King Charles III is seen during the recording of his first Christmas broadcast. Victoria Jones - Pool/Getty Images Every year, families gather to watch the royal Christmas address, informally known as the Queen's or King's speech.The Telegraph reported that the first Christmas address was 251 words long, but Queen Elizabeth II later came to average 656 words in each speech. It is often one of the most-watched television programs on Christmas Day in the UK. Christmas commercials are as talked-about as Super Bowl commercials are in the United States.People watching TV with mugs. Hoxton/Sam Edwards/Getty Images While Super Bowl commercials are highly scrutinized in the US, Brits pay just as close attention to Christmas commercials.Not only is the John Lewis ad, or "advert," a Christmas tradition, but almost every supermarket and clothing brand tries to get in on the buzz with a talked-about Christmas commercial. Brits also anticipate which song will become the annual "Christmas No. 1" single.The Spice Girls. Getty Images The British "Christmas No. 1" has been a tradition for over half a century. Starting in 1952, the top song on the British singles chart has been a coveted spot every Christmas. Christmas No. 1 alums include The Beatles, Queen, Ed Sheeran, and more.While some Christmas No. 1s have indeed been Christmas songs "Do They Know It's Christmas?" by Band Aid II in 1989, for example they don't have to be. School nativity plays are a popular tradition in UK primary schools.Year one pupils from Kingsmead School perform in their annual Christmas nativity play. Gideon Mendel/In Pictures/Corbis/Getty Images While religious elementary schools in the United States may put on nativity plays, they are arguably much more popular and part of the culture in Britain.In the popular British Christmas movie "Love Actually," the characters even attend a Christmas nativity play. Brits take advantage of after-Christmas sales on Boxing Day.Boxing Day sale signage at Selfridges department store in London. Getty Boxing Day is typically called British Black Friday, but there are some differences between the holidays. Boxing Day, which is a public holiday in the UK, falls the day after Christmas and has a rich cultural history in Great Britain.Originating in the mid-1600s, the day was traditionally a day off for servants. On this day, servants would receive a "Christmas Box," or gift, from their master. The servants would then return home on Boxing Day to give "Christmas Boxes" to their families. In the UK, it can be bad luck to keep your decorations up for more than 12 days after Christmas.A Christmas tree with a handmade ornament. Peter Lourenco/Getty Images Another difference between US and UK Christmas customs comes after all of the festivities have ended.In the UK, it's tradition to take down yourtree and decorations 12 days after Christmas known as Twelfth Night to avoid bad luck in the new year.In the Anglican tradition, Twelfth Night, or Epiphany Eve, is the day before Epiphany, which celebrates the coming of the Magi to baby Jesus and marks the end of the 12 days of Christmas.

My children have lied to me ever since they were young.This is a normal part of development as kids test the waters and try to avoid punishment.I've struggled to deal with the lying and tried to remain a positive role model for them.It never ceases to amaze me how effortlessly my children lie. My 18-month-old, whose face was covered with crumbs, swore up and down that she hadn't been near the cookie jar. My preschooler looked me in the eye and denied breaking the window with his plastic bat that was still in his hand. It didn't seem to get better as they got older.After I handed my ATM card to my two oldest sons so they had money for lunch, I asked for the change, and they said, "We only took out $5, so there is no change."We all know you can't just withdraw $5.00. How could they tell me such a bald-faced lie with a straight face?Dealing with my children's lies has been one of the most challenging aspects of parenting.Lying is natural in childhoodHere's the problem: Lying is easy. What I find especially distressing is that no one has to teach children how to lie."Lying is developmentally appropriate," Ailen Arreaza, the executive director of Parents Together, a national nonprofit parent and family advocacy group, told me. "When a toddler or a 4-year-old lies, it's frustrating for the parent, but it's perfectly normal. It means that your kid's brain is developing in the way that it should be."Arreaza also told me kids tell three kinds of lies: attention-seeking ones, careless ones, and serious ones that happen when they're older.For example, one of my sons told me he missed curfew because he lost track of time when, in fact, he was at his girlfriend's house and just didn't want to leave."Often teenagers tell lies because they're afraid of the consequences or they're embarrassed," Arreaza said.I struggled with how I should handle lyingConfronting my children in search of the truth is never comfortable. In fact, it can be exhausting a round-robin of questions and denials before they finally break and admit what they've done.There have been times when I was so eager to know the truth that I promised to refrain from any form of punishment. I want to hear a confession to satisfy my suspicion and feel vindicated, but then I face the sticky situation of what happens next time they lie."It's important to address the lie, but not in a way that shames the child and labels them as liars," Arreaza said. "This is about changing a behavior, not who the child is. Create a safe environment where truth-telling is encouraged. If they think they're disappointing you or they're going to get in trouble, they're going to continue to lie to please you."I try to be a role model for my kidsI want nothing more than for my children to tell the truth, and often they do.When he was 12, one of my boys came to me and, unprompted, confessed to a more serious lie he'd told previously. I had no clue, but it was eating him up inside. My son expressed his remorse and asked for forgiveness. I imagined the guilt was gnawing at him for betraying my trust.I'm glad he admitted that he lied. In modeling the truth for my children, I hope they understand they can always come clean to me. My son felt safe and supported to do just that.In that way, I have to believe that the truth will always win out in the end.