The Federal Trade Commission announced on Friday that Genshin Impact developer Cognosphere has agreed to a $20 million settlement and several restrictions on how it sells its loot boxes and manages childrens personal data. According to the FTC, the company actively marketed its loot boxes to children and misled players about their odds of winning prizes.Cognosphere allegedly also deceived children and other users about the real costs of in-game transactions, by requiring them to buy virtual money that involved multiple currency exchanges. Players often spent hundreds of dollars on prizes they stood little chance of winning, according to Bureau of Consumer Protection Director Samuel Levine. For years, loot boxes have been likened to a form of legal gambling. The complaint, filed by the Department of Justice, also accuses the Genshin Impact developer of marketing to kids using approaches like posts on social media channels and in-game banners. The company then allegedly collected their personal information in violation of the Childrens Online Privacy Protection Rule. Once the settlement is approved, the company is required to delete any data for children under 13 whose parents havent consented to their data being collected.Other requirements of the settlement include that Cognosphere must offer an option to buy loot boxes directly and not just through virtual money. Its also forbidden from misrepresenting pricing, features, and winning odds for loot boxes, and it must disclose exchange rates for multi-tiered virtual currency.

TikTok has officially been banned in the U.S. and the social media app can no longer be accessed by those within its borders.Users who try to hop on TikTok will no longer see videos from creators across the world, but instead will be greeted with a message that begins, "Sorry, TikTok isn't available right now.""A law banning TikTok has been enacted in the U.S. Unfortunately, that means you can't use TikTok for now," the message continues. "We are fortunate that President Trump has indicated that he will work with us on a solution to reinstate TikTok once he takes office. Please stay tuned! In the meantime, you can still download your data."Image Credit: Faisal Bashi/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty ImagesTikTok made one final appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court, but last week it unanimously struck it down despite its understanding that many other apps collect a ton of data to analyze. In their eyes, TikTok had the potential for harm.There is no doubt that, for more than 170 million Americans, TikTok offers a distinctive and expansive outlet for expression, means of engagement, and source of community," The U.S. Supreme Court said. "But Congress has determined that divestiture is necessary to address its well-supported national security concerns regarding TikToks data collection practices and relationship with a foreign adversary. For the foregoing reasons, we conclude that the challenged provisions do not violate petitioners First Amendment rights.As TikTok mentioned, the company is hoping that Donald Trump will bring it back online after he officially becomes the next U.S. President on January 20, but there has been no definite word as of yet. He did, however, say to NBC News in an interview on January 18 that he will "most likely" delay the ban for 90 days.This delay would give a buyer from the United States or one of its allies time to purchase the app, which hasn't happened yet and is what led to the ban. What did occur, however, is that other apps with links to TikTok parent company ByteDance have gone dark, including CapCut, Lemon8, and even Marvel Snap.Have a tip for us? Want to discuss a possible story? Please send an email to newstips@ign.com.Adam Bankhurst is a writer for IGN. You can follow him on X/Twitter @AdamBankhurst and on TikTok.

Who hasn't dreamed of buying a home abroad to live out our unrealized expat fantasies? Over the last few years, living outside the United States has seemed a lot more attractive, whether we're influenced by shows like Emily in Paris, the tumultuous mood of the current political climate, or the desire for a slower lifestyle. Moving to a place unfamiliar to usespecially internationallycan help expand our horizons and give us a new perspective on life, but it can certainly come with its challenges as well. When emigrating, be prepared to go through a lengthy visa process, come up against language barriers and cultural faux pas, and navigate the laws in an unfamiliar land. You'll also want to do plenty of research before you have your heart set on a location because a few countries (such as Thailand and Vietnam) dont allow foreigners to own property. For that reason, you may be better off planning an extended vacation instead of a move there! However, on the other end of the spectrum are the countries actively trying to attract foreign home buyers with enviable incentives (like citizenship!). Ultra-low home prices and an easier customs process and work-visa approval process can make the prospect of moving abroad less intimidating, if not entirely seamless. Ahead, were highlighting the eight countries that are the best for Americans who are looking to purchase a home internationally. These countries offer the most hassle-free buying experiences out there, plus, theyre pretty great places to call home.For more on international real estate:1New ZealandScott E Barbour//Getty ImagesWith a very clear, straightforward, and highly regulated real estate market, New Zealand is a great place to move for those looking for a seamless home-buying process. Samira Easton, a certified international property specialist with Premier Sothebys International Realty, says, There is a strong network of real estate professionals, including agents and lawyers, who are accustomed to working with foreign buyers. The country also regularly boasts one of the happiest populations in the world, ranking 11 in the 2024 World Happiness Report.Book a Trip2Costa Rica Kryssia Campos//Getty ImagesWith clear property rights, a legal system that respects foreign ownership, and a warm, welcoming environment, Costa Rica is a top choice for foreign investors and a simple place to buy property, says Mauricio Umansky, CEO and founder of The Agency, which has offices around the world. This biodiverse country also has a large and bustling expat community so its not just easy for Americans to buy there, its easy for them to live and work there too.BOOK A TRIPRelated: Designer Raili Clasen on How to Master Surf Style Advertisement - Continue Reading Below3Dominican Republictodaydesign//Getty ImagesInstead of retiring to Florida, consider this balmy and beautiful Caribbean countrywhich is just a four-hour direct flight from the New York area. Like everything else on the island, the real estate laws are relatively relaxed, which makes buying a house easy-breezy, and you can buy and own property without having to obtain residency status or special permissions, as is the case in many other Caribbean islands. Foreigners can own property outright in the Dominican Republic, with legal protections for foreign investors, Umanksy says. One important consideration is financing: You can certainly get a mortgage in the DR, but it may not be quite as cushy as what you can get in the U.S.so pay cash if possible.BOOK A TRIPRelated: This Dominican Republic Airbnb Is the Perfect Tropical Getaway4Panama BriBar//Getty ImagesThis affordable, below-the-radar Central American country has breathtaking beaches, lush rainforests, and exceptional wildlife. It has many similarities with neighboring Costa Ricaincluding how easy the country makes it for Americans to buy real estate. Its Friendly Nations Visa program offers permanent residency for citizens of 50 countries, and the U.S. is on the list. Plus, Panama doesnt place any restrictions on foreign ownership, and the legal system is efficient and reliable, Easton says, so you can invest with confidence.BOOK A TRIPRelated: Expert Advice on Where to Buy Affordable Beach HousesAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below5ThailandKanok Sulaiman//Getty ImagesThailand is home to beautiful sandy beaches (it has 1,400 islands!), Buddhist temples, ancient ruins, and excellent street food, making it a good place to consider buying if youre looking for an easy investment. Housing prices are relatively affordable and foreigners can own up to 49 percent of the units in a condominium building, offering a straightforward option for property investment, Easton says. There are also plenty of English-speaking real estate agents and real estate attorneys who can walk you through the process. BOOK A TRIPRelated: The Ultimate Design Lovers Travel Guide to Bangkok6MexicoKim Rogerson//Getty ImagesBordering the Southwestern United States and a direct flight from most major cities, Mexico is a geographically desirable spot for a second homeand Mexico makes it especially easy for its American neighbors to buy property. The country has straightforward real estate laws for foreigners, especially in designated restricted zones like beachfront areas where foreign ownership is facilitated through a bank trust, Umansky says. Cities like San Miguel de Allende, shown are just as beautiful, especially for design lovers. Mexicos real estate agents also tend to be very professional and are accustomed to working with Americans and other foreign buyers.BOOK A TRIPRelated: This Mexican Home Is Shea McGees First-Ever International ProjectAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below7Portugal Alf//Getty ImagesThe people in this popular Western European coastal country are famously friendly and inviting, and that extends to real estate. According to Easton, Portugal offers a Golden Visa Program, which makes it simple to buy property and gain residency; clear real estate laws; and a well-established network of English-speaking real estate agents, lawyers, and notaries to help you during the process. In addition to the capital, the seaside city of Porto, seen here, is a popular destination for expats.BOOK A TRIPRelated: The Definitive Design Lover's Guide to Lisbon8Spain Kirill Rudenko//Getty ImagesLike Portugal, Spain offers a Golden Visa Program that enables foreigners to gain citizenship by purchasing real estate. Plus its real estate market is robust and transparent, and there are plenty of professional services in place to help guide you through the process. The are also numerous online resources and property portals available, so its easy to find listings and information, Easton says. This is a boon for those who arent able to make the trip over to Europe to house shop in person.BOOK A TRIPRelated: Everything You Need to Know About the Spanish Colonial Design Style

Last night, TikTok officially went dark in the United States. In addition to TikTok itself going offline, Apple also removed the app from the App Store. Apple has now addressed the TikTok ban for the first time, saying it is obligated to follow the laws in the jurisdictions where it operates. Apple explains TikTok banIn a statement posted to its website, Apple says: Apple is obligated to follow the laws in the jurisdictions where it operates. Pursuant to the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, apps developed by ByteDance Ltd. and its subsidiaries including TikTok, CapCut, Lemon8, and others will no longer be available for download or updates on the App Store for users in the United States starting January 19, 2025.Apple also shared the following list of apps that are developed by ByteDance and have been removed from the App Store: TikTokTikTok StudioTikTok Shop Seller CenterCapCutLemon8HypicLark Team CollaborationLark Rooms DisplayLark Rooms ControllerGauth: AI Study CompanionMARVEL SNAP The company explains that if you live in the United States and already have those apps installed, they will remain on your device. If you delete the apps or move to a new device, however, the apps cant be deleted or restored. Additionally, Apple confirms that users in the United States wont receive updates for these apps, which could impact performance, security, and compatibility with future versions of iOS and iPadOS. Finally, Apple says that the apps remain available for download in all other countries and regions where they are available. Heres what to know if you are visiting the United States: Users visiting from outside the United States with their Apple Account set to a country or region that is not the United States are unable to download, update, or make in-app purchases and new subscriptions inside ByteDance Ltd. apps while within the land or maritime borders of the United States.After leaving the United States, youll have access to all functionality.Learn more about the TikTok ban in our full coverage. Add 9to5Mac to your Google News feed. FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.Youre reading 9to5Mac experts who break news about Apple and its surrounding ecosystem, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Mac on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Dont know where to start? Check out our exclusive stories, reviews, how-tos, and subscribe to our YouTube channel

ExpressVPN is currently CNETs pick for the best VPN for Android, and its 8.8/10 score on our VPN rating scale also makes it the best VPN overall. Its a veteran VPN provider that consistently demonstrates a strong commitment to privacy and transparency. In our testing, ExpressVPN was excellent for streaming and the easiest VPN app to use on any platform, including Android. The catch is that ExpressVPN is one of the most expensive VPN providers currently on the market. The service costs $13 per month, $100 for the first year (then $117 annually), or $140 for the first two years (then $150 annually). This is significantly more expensive than Surfshark, which charges $48 for the first year or $56 for the first two years, with both plans renewing at $60 annually. NordVPN is cheaper than Express but pricier than Surfshark at $69 for the first year or $81 total for the first two years (Nord's one- and two-year plans rise to $140 annually upon renewal). Granted, ExpressVPN does bundle a password manager and identity theft insurance, but if you only need a VPN or don't plan to use Express for anything other than a VPN, you may be able to get cheaper service elsewhere. Nevertheless, it's tough to find a more user-friendly VPN app than ExpressVPN's. Although snappy enough for almost any online activity, ExpressVPNs speeds are not quite as fast as some of its competitors, based on our latest speed tests. In 2024, we measured a 24.8% average speed loss with ExpressVPN. This is still fast, given that many VPNs can cut your internet speeds by 50% or more. We saw substantially better speeds from NordVPN (11% speed loss), Surfshark (17% speed loss) and Proton VPN (21%). Still, ExpressVPNs speeds were largely consistent and aligned with our expectations across protocols and server locations. Overall, we registered the fastest speeds through ExpressVPNs proprietary Lightway protocol, which is engineered for speed and security. Speeds were generally faster to relatively closer server locations like New York City and the UK and slower to distant locations like Australia and Singapore. In any case, ExpressVPNs speeds were still fast enough for general browsing as well as for more data-intensive activities like streaming, gaming and videoconferencing -- especially if you use Lightway.

Marvel Snap has been banned in the US.Whilst 170m American TikTokers were anticipating the app's suspension after the US Supreme Court upheld a decision to ban the Chinese app over security concerns, Marvel Snap players in the US have also been impacted given publisher Nuverse is also owned by TikTok owner, ByteDance.According to developer Second Dinner, the ban was every bit as much a "surprise" to the team as it was to players, too.To see this content please enable targeting cookies. Nintendo Switch 2 and Mario Kart 9 have been revealed - but questions remain.Watch on YouTube"Sorry, Marvel Snap isn't available right now," the app now tells all US players."A law banning Marvel Snap has been enacted in the US. Unfortunately, that means you can't use Marvel Snap for now."Rest assured, we're working to restore our service in the US," the brief statement concluded. "Please stay tuned!"Marvel Snap is now banned in the U.S. seemingly as part of the TikTok ban[image or embed] Wario64 (@wario64.bsky.social) January 19, 2025 at 5:00 AMTo see this content please enable targeting cookies.Developer Second Dinner also addressed players on social media, insisting the "outage" was "a surprise to us and wasn't planned"."Marvel Snap isnt going anywhere," the team insisted. "Were actively working on getting the game up as soon as possible and will update you once we have more to share."To see this content please enable targeting cookies.At the time of writing, it is not clear how long the game will be offline.At the end of 2023, ByteDance restructured its video games business - including Nuverse - calling the changes a "difficult" decision to make.

TikTok is officially going dark in the United States now that a federal ban on the app is set to go into effect on January 19th. Around 9PM ET, the app began notifying people in the US, including Verge staffers, with a message that said the ban would make our services temporarily unavailable. RelatedTikTok is down in the USThe message goes on to say, Were working to restore our service in the US as quickly as possible, an outcome that will require action from the incoming Trump administration one way or another. A similar message is showing up in the CapCut video editor, which is also owned by TikTok.After about 10:30PM ET, both TikTok and CapCuts apps began to cut users off in the US, with messages saying, Sorry, TikTok isnt available right now. A law banning TikTok has been enacted in the U.S. Unfortunately, that means you cant use TikTok for now. We are fortunate that President Trump has indicated that he will work with us on a solution to reinstate TikTok once he takes office. Please stay tuned!Inside the company, an internal email viewed by The Verge says the news is disappointing but that President Trump has indicated that he will work with us on a solution to reinstate TikTok once he takes office on the 20th, and teams are working tirelessly to bring our app back to the U.S. as soon as possible.The message being shown to US TikTok users. A similar message is being shown in CapCut. Screenshot: TikTokTikTok crashed into this outcome somewhat chaotically its known this was the deadline since Biden signed the bill in April, but the company never appeared to have a backup plan to save its service if the Supreme Court ruled the law was constitutional, which happened on Friday. At the same time, the company was promising advertisers it would sort things out as recently as last night.TikTok warned on Friday that it would be forced to go dark if the Biden administration didnt promise to delay enforcement of the law penalties on TikToks service providers, like Apple and Google, which can be fined thousands of dollars per US user once the ban goes into effect. In response, the Biden administration said it had already passed enforcement responsibilities on to the Trump administration and called TikToks threat to go offline a stunt.Trump who kicked off the TikTok ban debate himself during his first term has indicated he plans to extend the deadline for the ban by 90 days via an executive order once he is sworn in on January 20th, though its not clear if he means he will use the provision in the law that allows for a delay if a sale is pending or if he even has that option once the ban goes into effect. TikToks users are decidedly upset, of course although none of them seem to be pressuring the company to sell as much as theyre pressuring politicians from both parties to rescind the ban.Update, January 18th: Noted that TikTok and CapCut app shutdowns have begun in the US.

Keeping CountOne industry analyst says that the Nintendo Switch 2 is "exactly what people wanted and expected", but it might not be enough to beat the first one's sales"There may be more revelations that no one has thought of."Image credit: Nintendo News by Oisin Kuhnke Contributor Published on Jan. 19, 2025 The Nintendo Switch has been ridiculously successful, but one analyst thinks the Switch 2 might not reach the same heights.At the time of writing, the original Nintendo Switch has sold around 146 million units, making it the third-best-selling console of all time, only eight million behind the Nintendo DS in second place, and 14 million behind the PS2 in first place. With the Switch 2 now officially announced, it's less likely the OG Switch will take the top spot, though it obviously has cemented itself as one of the best-selling consoles of all time, even if it somehow goes down a spot or too. So, there's obviously some big expectations for its successor, and one analyst thinks there's a chance the Switch 2 won't do quite as well as the original.To see this content please enable targeting cookies. Speaking to GamesRadar, Mat Piscatella of market research firm Circana said that the "Switch 2 can (and I expect it to) be a massive success. But I also don't expect it to reach Switch. It's tough to forecast for an outlier. It could happen, but it's not likely." He went on to note that it's "great that it looks to be a bigger, more powerful Switch. Fantastic. Exactly what people wanted and expected. But also, it looks to be primarily a bigger, more powerful Switch, which may not be enough to attract an audience outside of buyers of the original Switch."This initial trailer for the Switch 2 mostly just shows that it's bigger and has a new Mario Kart, which isn't a bad thing at all, but obviously isn't exactly a console seller. "There may be more revelations that no one has thought of and that haven't leaked in some fashion," Piscatella noted. "Looks like we'll have to wait until the Direct for that."I'm sure that even if the Switch 2 doesn't do Switch 1 numbers, it'll do plenty well enough, especially considering that the only way to play Nintendo games is on a Nintendo console. We'll just have to wait and see what that Direct has in store for us.

close Who's really behind that random strange text from nowhere? It's becoming increasingly difficult to distinguish between legitimate text messages and potential scams. These days, our phones are constantly buzzing with notifications, and it's becoming increasingly difficult to distinguish between legitimate messages and potential scams. Bill from Mesa, Arizona, recently shared an experience that highlights this growing concern:"Twice in the last week I've received texts supposedly sent elsewhere. The last one asked if I was 'available tomorrow evening.' I did not recognize the number but am active in an old people park so receive many calls and texts from unfamiliar numbers. I texted back that my wife thought we were available. A few minutes later, a text came asking if I was Mrs. Amy. I texted that I wasn't Mrs. Amy and had never been, but it was a problem."A return text came thanking me for being so polite and the texter's appreciation for polite people and if I were ever in LA, I would be welcome to a backyard BBQ. Looking back, there were a couple more texts ending with I like to make friends with polite people. The first text which I deleted was in a very similar vein and format. Is this a scam and why, for what?"Bill's experience is not unique. Many people receive similar messages that seem harmless at first glance but could potentially be part of a more sinister scheme. Let's dive into the world of text message scams and learn how to protect ourselves. A man texting on his phone (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)The anatomy of a text message scamText message scams, also known as"smishing," a combination of SMS and phishing, have become increasingly sophisticated. Scammers use various tactics to engage potential victims and gain their trust. Here are some common elements:Unfamiliar numbers: The message comes from a number you don't recognize. For instance, you receive a text from +1-555-123-4567, a number not in your contacts.Unsolicited contact:The text arrives unexpectedly, often with a friendly or urgent tone. Example:"Hey! Long time no see. How have you been?"Personal touch: The scammer might use your name or reference a common activity to seem legitimate. Example:"Hi Sarah, it's Mike from the book club. Are you coming to the meeting next week?"Too good to be true:Offers of prizes, invitations, or other enticing propositions are common. Example:"Congratulations! You've won a $500 gift card. Click here to claim your prize!"Requests for information: The scammer may ask for personal details, either directly or indirectly. Example:"This is your bank. We need to verify your account. Please reply with your account number and PIN."Remember, these are all examples of potential scams. Always be cautious when receiving unexpected messages, especially those asking for personal information or containing suspicious links. A person texting on a phone (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Understanding the scammer's strategyIn Bill's case, the scammer employed a "long-play" strategy. By engaging in friendly conversation and offering invitations, the scammer aims to build trust over time. The end goal could be:Phishing for information: Gradually collecting personal details that can be used for identity theft.Malware distribution: Eventually sending a link that, when clicked, installs malicious software on your device.Financial scams: Building trust to eventually request money or financial information. A person texting on a phone (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)How to identify suspicious textsTo protect yourself from text message scams, follow these steps:Check the sender: Look at the full email address or phone number, not just the display name.Analyze the content: Be wary of messages with urgent subjects, grammatical errors, or strange URLs.Verify independently: If the message claims to be from a known entity, contact them through official channels to confirm.Trust your instincts: If something feels off, it probably is. Don't let politeness override your judgment.WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)? A man texting on his phone (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)What to do if you suspect a scamIf you believe you've received a scam text, here are six steps to follow:1. Don't respond: Avoid engaging with the scammer to prevent further attempts.2. Block the number:Use your phone's built-in blocking features to prevent further contact.For iPhone: Open themessage, tap thesender's name ornumber, select"Info," then "Block Caller."For Android: Open themessage, long-press theconversation, tap thethree-dot menu and select "Block" or "Block & Report Spam." You may be asked to confirm your decision by clicking Yes.Settings may vary depending on your Android phones manufacturer.GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE3. Report the message:Forward the suspicious text to7726 (SPAM). Also, report it directly to the FTC atReportFraud.ftc.gov.4. Keep your information safe: Never click on links or provide personal information in response to unsolicited texts.5. Have strong antivirus software: Install and run strong antivirus apps on your phone to scan for malware and ensure your device is secure. The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have 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.6. Invest in personal data removal services: Consider using a data removal service to eliminate your personal information from data broker sites. These services can help reduce spam, decrease the risk of identity theft and clean up your online presence by automating the removal of your data from hundreds of data broker sites.While no service promises to remove all your data from the internet, having a removal service is great if you want to constantly monitor and automate the process of removing your information from hundreds of sites continuously over a longer period of time.Check out my top picks for data removal services here.Kurts key takeawaysWhile it's natural to want to be polite, as Bill was, remember that your safety and personal information are paramount. Trust your instincts, verify unfamiliar contacts and never hesitate to ignore or block suspicious messages. Remember, a true friend won't mind if you take extra steps to verify their identity, and a legitimate organization will have official channels for communication.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPHow have you or someone you know been affected by text message scams, and what steps did you take to protect yourself? Let us know by writing us atCyberguy.com/ContactFor more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/NewsletterAsk Kurt a question or let us know what stories you'd like us to coverFollow Kurt on his social channelsAnswers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt:Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved. Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on "FOX & Friends." Got a tech question? Get Kurts free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com. Related Topics

ZDNET's key takeaways The Privacy Hero 2, a $199 router available on FlashRouters, supports NordVPN and Surfshark alongside various VPN protocols. It comes with one year of access to Privacy Hero Wireguard VPN and, with a current promotion, one year of NordVPN. The company should improve the build quality and be more generous with the Ethernet cable's length. View now at Flashrouters Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are excellent tools for improving online privacy and security. Most people sign up with a VPN provider and then install their accompanying native applications on their PCs, tablets, and smartphones.However, there's another option: installing a VPN on your router. This method provides blanket coverage for any device connected to the router's Wi-Fi, allowing you to circumvent connection number restrictions and saving you the legwork of installing a VPN app on every device you want to protect.Also: You need a router-based VPN in 2025. Here's why and how to set one upIt's not always a quick task, though. Many routers on the market support third-party VPNs, but you may need reasonable technical knowledge and be willing to tamper with internal settings to make everything work.Alternatively, some VPN providers offer VPN-ready hardware; one such model is the subject of this review. The Privacy Hero 2, a $199 router available on FlashRouters, supports NordVPN and Surfshark (both owned by Nord Security) alongside a range of VPN protocols. It comes with one year of access to Privacy Hero Wireguard VPN and, with a current promotion, one year of NordVPN.Let's dive into this VPN-ready router's build, installation, benefits, and disadvantages.How's the build quality?Once you unbox the Privacy Hero 2, you're met with a lightweight, compact router. It's lighter than most routers I've tried or reviewed (except for travel routers) and has a plastic feel. The build quality is acceptable for a $199 router, although I felt I had to handle it carefully. Charlie Osborne/ZDNETThe Privacy Hero 2 comes with an A/C power supply, Ethernet cable, and installation guide. The size of the four external antennae seemed odd, probably because they were somewhat bulky compared to the router's tiny body. Overall, the build is reasonable, and my only real complaint is the short length of the Ethernet cable.Installation processI've tested a variety of Wi-Fi routers -- traditional, mesh, and VPN-supporting -- over the years and found that installation complexity varies. The Privacy Hero 2 was very easy to set up. The router comes with a booklet and online installation guides, including a short video that helps users with the hardware side of the installation. After I plugged the router in, it took about 10 minutes to update.Once the router is ready, you must sign up for a free Privacy Hero account, which gives you web access to the router's dashboard. You will see this message once the installation is complete. Screenshot by Charlie Osborne/ZDNETThe next step is creating your Wi-Fi network. There are two options:You can set the network name to the same name and password as your existing network, so you won't have to reconnect your devices individually to the new one. This option requires you to turn off your ISP's router Wi-Fi signal.Alternatively, you can create a new network name. As I intend to retire my aging TP-Link model that has served as an IoT device hub until now, this was the option I chose -- with the name Privacy Hero.You can explore the Privacy Hero dashboard now that you're set up. I like the layout; it's clean, simple, and fuss-free. You can see the status of your new router on the Home screen as well as change its name or timezone. Screenshot by Charlie Osborne/ZDNET Under the Wi-Fi tab, you can check that your new networks are operating properly, or disable them if you wish. Screenshot by Charlie Osborne/ZDNETI'll focus on the VPN tab, as these are the main settings you'd most likely want to change. You will see various options: VPN, VPN Kill Switch, Malware & Phishing, and Ad Blocking.Also: Fastest VPNs in 2025 tested by expertsIf you click the first tab, you can choose between different VPN services. In this review, we'll useNordVPN. Screenshot by Charlie Osborne/ZDNETThis part was the most awkward part of the installation process. The router comes with a free year of NordVPN service, so you must go to the account tab, find your voucher, validate it on NordVPN, create your account, and then generate an access token.Once you have the access token, you must submit it in the Privacy Hero dashboard. Due to timeout failures, my token was not accepted until after three attempts.NordVPN then launched on the router with a UK server as default. If you want to change your country, click on the connection and change the server yourself. Visit NordVPN's OpenVPN configuration file list and copy and paste the server name you want to connect to. Screenshot by Charlie Osborne/ZDNETEnsure you have also enabled the Kill Switch, Malware & Phishing, and Ad Blocking options. The kill switch will protect your privacy if your internet connection suddenly drops by stopping the router from leveraging your standard, unencrypted ISP connection. The other settings will reduce your exposure to tracking and cyber threats.Let's start streamingMy favorite feature is under the Streaming tab. Dubbed "Relocation," it enables you to select the country connection through which your VPN will attempt to route your traffic without constantly changing your setup.Also: NordVPN vs. Surfshark: Which VPN is right for you?If a streaming service is available in only one country -- for example, BBC iPlayer in the UK -- it won't be shown, as the organization will automatically direct your traffic via a UK relocation connection. If, however, a service is available in multiple countries, you have options. Netflix, for example, can be set to the UK, Canada, or the US.You will still need an active subscription; some streaming services require a subscription from your target country.Testing streaming servicesI spent over an hour testing various connections and configuring the router to my liking. That's not to say you need to spend the same amount of time doing so, as the router is about as "out of the box" as possible.NordVPN worked from the start, and I experienced no connection issues with my Samsung smartphone, Samsung TV, or Apple MacBook Pro. However, setting up streaming services was more challenging. Screenshot by Charlie Osborne/ZDNETI spent several hours testing which geo-blocked streaming libraries I could access through my new Wi-Fi connection. I tested the Privacy Hero 2 with Disney+, Netflix, and the anime streaming service Crunchyroll.Also: TunnelBear VPN review: An affordable, easy-to-use VPN with a few notable pitfallsMy first test was accessing my home UK libraries, which I could do without a problem. I then enabled Privacy Hero 2's relocation feature for the aforementioned streaming platforms while keeping the initial connection on a UK server, where I faced several challenges. At first, I had no success -- only my UK library was available. I powered down the TV, Sky satellite TV box, ISP-issued router, and Privacy Hero 2 and waited for everything to reboot.I then tried to access US streaming service libraries on Disney+, Netflix, and Crunchyroll. Despite the relocation options, this didn't work directly through the Samsung TV's Tizen hub when the UK was set as the central server. However, it worked for Netflix and Disney+ when I tested three US-based servers instead with relocation enabled.Accessing these libraries through a third-party app, in this case, Sky, worked best on my TV for Netflix and Disney+. When I chose this route, it didn't matter what country my initial connection was set to.Also: The best live TV streaming services of 2025: Expert testedWhen I tested Netflix and Disney+ on my laptop, I could access US libraries without issues. (I received a login email from Netflix confirming that an account was being used in the US; the relocation function was working correctly.) Unfortunately, Crunchyroll did not work on my smart TV, but I could access its US library on my laptop. Screenshot by Charlie Osborne/ZDNETI also attempted to access Canadian libraries and had similar levels of success. Accessing different geo-blocked libraries for testing purposes was more successful than I expected, although you may have to try different configurations.Lastly, I performed a speed test while connected to Privacy Hero 2 compared to my typical ISP router connection. I experienced a download speed loss of around 16% and an upload speed loss of 6.6%. For a VPN, I can't complain. About those ads...While a VPN's streaming capabilities are pretty popular, another feature many VPN providers offer is ad blocking.Ad blocking can be as much of a cat-and-mouse game as streaming services blocking VPN IP addresses. YouTube, for example, has declared war on third-party ad blockers and is attempting to stop viewers from being able to bypass or skip ad breaks.I didn't expect much, considering that most of the time, when I use a VPN and watch a YouTube video, there's very little difference in how many ads are displayed vs. when I use a standard Wi-Fi connection. However, I was pleasantly surprised at my final router and server setup results.I tested my setup using a cooking channel I'm subscribed to; while I love its content, the frequency of commercial interruptions makes it almost unwatchable.Also:Is your live TV streaming service still worth it? I reassessed the options for us bothOn a standard laptop connection, while connected to the default UK VPN server, the first ad on videos and a handful of ads were displayed, but fewer than usual. I compared watching the same YouTube video on my smart TV with Privacy Hero 2, with the same results. I then decided to try changing the router's initial server to a country where YouTube doesn't monetize ads. Lo and behold, all of the ad breaks within the video were disabled.I use an ancient MacBook Air to watch YouTube or to listen to audiobooks at night, and there's nothing worse than an ad break startling you awake. To ensure this wasn't a fluke, I changed this laptop's Wi-Fi connection to Privacy Hero 2, and the result was the same: no ads.There is a caveat: Speeds were impacted, so depending on what server you select and the speed of your initial broadband connection, you might be trading buffering for an ad-free experience.ZDNET's buying adviceRegarding the physical design of the Privacy Hero 2, the company should improve the build quality and be more generous with the Ethernet cable's length. However, installation is easy and user-friendly. This VPN router is the best I've tried to date, and it will be a long-term fixture in my household.I have previously installed VPNs on third-party, supporting routers, but the Privacy Hero 2 is far less complicated to set up and requires very little technical knowledge. The dashboard is easy to navigate and keeps technical jargon to a minimum.Also: Best TVs of CES 2025: Samsung, LG, and other new models that made our jaws dropIf you want to change the initial server connection, you'll need to work out the OpenVPN configuration file names. I would like to see NordVPN provide a streamlined list of servers that identifies which server belongs to which country. A dropdown list right in the dashboard would be useful. My favorite feature is the streaming location option. While many streaming channels are currently limited to the UK, US, and Canada (something I would like to see expanded where possible), toggling between them without finding servers yourself is highly convenient.If you want to try out the Privacy Hero 2, you can buy it from Flashrouters for $199. You'll receive a free one-year NordVPN subscription with your purchase.SpecificationsVPN protocols: WireguardWi-Fi standard: Wi-Fi 6 - Wireless AXWireless speed: 3000MbpsWi-Fi bands: Dual BandEthernet port: Type 4 GigabitAntenna type: 4 ExternalProcessor: MediaTekProcessor speed: 1.3GHzRAM: 512 MB / 128 MBPower supply: 100-240VAlong with Wireguard, this router also supportsNordLynx, which combines Wireguard with NordVPN security features. Why use a VPN to stream? VPNs can be used to watch your favorite content on platforms, including Amazon Prime, Disney+, Hulu, and Netflix.Setting a VPN to your home region while you're traveling, for example, may allow you to access your favorite shows in your standard library. However, some users also use VPNs to try and access films and TV shows only available in other countries. You do this by setting your VPN to a server in the target country.I tried to access streaming libraries locked to the US and Canada via Privacy Hero 2 routing below for testing purposes only. You should keep in mind that accessing libraries outside of your home region is a legally gray area and may break your streaming service provider's terms and conditions. Furthermore, stopping these activities is a constant cat-and-mouse game between VPN providers and content platforms, and so a method that worked last week may not work tomorrow. Show more Featured reviews