Mary James
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Mary is a cybersecurity writer based in Los Angeles, holding a B.S. in Liberal Arts from Clarion University and an M.F.A. in Creative Writing from Point Park University in Pittsburgh. With over seven years of experience, she focuses on educating the public on a wide range of cybersecurity topics, from VPNs to antivirus software.
Mary’s previous experience in sales and content creation at a private cybersecurity firm has enabled her to translate complex topics into easily digestible concepts. Her work has been featured in national publications such as MSN, CNBC, and PC Matic's private blog, reflecting her dedication to sharing vital cybersecurity insights and empowering the public to safeguard their private data.
When she's not writing, Mary works at her local theatre while also enjoying the trifecta of the beach, mountains, and desert.
- MSN
- CNBC
- PC Matic
- Antivirus
- VPNs
- Identity Theft
- B.S. in Liberal Arts from Clarion University
- M.F.A. in Creative Writing from Point Park University
- Mac or PC: Both
- Android or iOS: iPhone
Mary's Latest Articles
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Best Password Managers for Windows 2025
NordPass, 1Password, and Keeper are affordable and have secure encryption to protect your passwords. Learn why these tested picks are the best password managers for Windows.
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Bitdefender Internet Security vs. Total Security 2025: Two Plans, One Big Difference
Deciding between Bitdefender’s Internet Security plan and its Total Security plan comes down to your operating system and individual needs.
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McAfee Safe Connect VPN Review 2025: Is It Safe to Use?
McAfee is a name we trust, so imagine our surprise when we tested the Safe Connect VPN and didn’t get the results we expected.
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How To Watch “The Last of Us” From Anywhere
The hit TV series, “The Last of Us,” has thrilled audiences around the globe. Here’s the best way to watch if it’s not available in your region.
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Norton vs. Webroot 2025: Which One Checks All the Boxes?
Norton offers a myriad of features but at a premium price, while competitors like Webroot provide security at a more affordable cost, albeit with fewer features.
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Surfshark vs. PIA 2025: Is It Too Close to Call?
Surfshark quickly moved up the ranks of trusted VPNs when it burst onto the scene, but Private Internet Access has been securing internet connections for a decade.
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Microsoft Defender Antivirus Review 2025: How Well Does This Free Program Perform?
Microsoft Defender and Windows Security are often called Windows Defender, but that’s the wrong name for two very different products. We’ll show you the difference as well as which one provides the best protection.
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Bitdefender vs. AVG 2025: Are You Looking for Features or Simplicity?
Bitdefender and AVG are both freemium services that offer protection at no cost, but which provider offers more with its paid subscription?
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How To Bypass the Netflix Password-Sharing Ban with NordVPN
Netflix likes to keep itself locked down by restricting content geographically and instituting a recent password-sharing ban, but NordVPN has ways around all of it.
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The Best VPNs for Japan 2025
Whether you’re a fan of Japanese streaming content or want to stay protected in some of the country’s vibrant public spaces, one of these VPNs can help you.
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Norton vs. Kaspersky 2025: Should Kaspersky Be Avoided?
Regardless of the security warning for Kaspersky, both it and Norton have several key features that offer protection for yourself and your family.
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The Best Identity Theft Restoration Services 2025
There are so many factors in choosing an identity theft restoration service that you may feel overwhelmed, but we’re here to help you choose the right one for your unique needs.
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The Best VPNs for Russia 2025
Only government-approved VPNs are legal in Russia, but we believe everyone has the right to privacy. That said, here’s why Surfshark, CyberGhost, and Proton VPN are the best VPNs to use in Russia.
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TotalAV vs. Norton 2025: Which Guards Your Devices Better?
TotalAV and Norton are highly-rated and well-known antivirus programs with different approaches to features that may or may not appeal to you based on your needs.
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ID Watchdog Review 2025: Identity Theft Protection and Valuable Bonus Features
ID Watchdog provides you with standard features for an ID theft protection service with bonuses like antivirus and a VPN.
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Vipre Antivirus Review 2025: Is It Only Great for Windows?
Vipre Antivirus is touted as a reliable option for Windows users. But if you use Apple products, it may leave you wanting more.
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NordLocker Review 2025: The Ultimate File Encryption Tool
Experience unbreakable data encryption and ultimate privacy protection with NordLocker’s leading file security solution.
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Wipr Review 2025: Lightweight but Powerful Ad Blocking
Wipr is an inexpensive tool that allows you to block ads on Safari so you can browse without all the clutter.
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What Is a Dedicated IP Address?
A dedicated IP address provides a VPN user with more autonomy as well as more protection, but does the additional cost offset the benefits? We think so, and here's why.
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Bitdefender Digital Identity Protection Review 2025: We Tested The Trusted Brand's Data Removal Service
Want to reduce spam and lower your chances of identity theft? A service like Bitdefender Digital Identity Protection claims to do that, so we put it to the test.
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Trend Micro Review 2025: A Full Security Suite That May Surprise You
Whether you’re looking for an antivirus product that will run quietly in the background or a blanket of security for the entire family, Trend Micro’s full suite of security features will keep you protected.
