# The Significance of Identity Safeguarding During the Holiday Shopping Surge

The final shopping surge preceding Christmas not only ushers in festive joy but also escalates the risks associated with cybercrime. With a rise in online transactions, rapid purchases, and shoppers distracted by holiday preparations, this time frame constitutes a prime opportunity for identity thieves. Acknowledging this, NordProtect has reduced the cost of its identity protection service to an unprecedented low of $4.49 per month, down from the usual $14.99. This seasonal offer highlights the necessity of protecting personal information during a period marked by an uptick in identity theft incidents.

## The Magnitude of the Issue

Identity theft poses a major challenge in the United States, with alarming statistics illustrating the breadth of the problem. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) states that consumers lost around $12.5 billion to fraud in the last year, showing a 25% increase from the prior year. In 2024 alone, the FTC processed over 1.1 million identity theft complaints, leading to a new victim every 22 seconds.

### Identity Theft by the Statistics
– **Every 22 seconds:** A new identity theft incident occurs in the United States.
– **1.1 million:** Identity theft complaints submitted to the FTC in 2024.
– **$12.5 billion:** Total losses experienced by consumers due to fraud within the last year.
– **44%:** Proportion of identity theft cases that involve credit card fraud.

The probability of identity theft increases during the holiday season, as the influx of online shopping creates more opportunities for cybercriminals. With a rise in legitimate transactions, it becomes progressively harder to differentiate between authentic purchases and fraudulent charges. Additionally, phishing schemes disguised as shipping notifications or holiday deals see a surge, while retailers often endure infrastructure pressures, making them more susceptible to breaches.

## How Protection Functions Effectively

NordProtect utilizes ongoing automated surveillance to manage identity risks proficiently, rather than depending on sporadic manual checks. The service observes credit reports from all three major bureaus, investigates dark web marketplaces for personal data, and monitors associated financial accounts for any unusual activity.

Keeping an eye on the dark web is especially vital, as this segment of the internet generally acts as a trading ground for stolen identities. When personal details surface here, it typically signifies a security breach in the accounts the victim utilizes. Swift detection and response are essential for securing accounts before criminals can take advantage of the information.

Furthermore, TransUnion’s credit monitoring service can instantly alert users to unauthorized financial activities, like new loan requests or alterations to credit limits. By also observing bank accounts, individuals can detect questionable transactions and reduce potential losses early.

## Financial Coverage That Extends Beyond Monitoring

The financial burden of recovering from identity theft can be overwhelming, often requiring legal fees, lost earnings, and countless hours devoted to rectifying the matter. NordProtect alleviates part of this strain by providing coverage of up to $1 million for expenses related to identity theft recovery, which includes legal costs and any documented expenses associated with reinstating one’s identity.

In addition, NordProtect offers tailored protections for less common risks—up to $50,000 for cyber extortion cases and up to $10,000 for direct theft from bank accounts or credit cards due to digital fraud. This broad coverage highlights the significant financial implications linked to advanced cyber dangers.

Access to specialized case management is another notable advantage. If identity theft occurs, a U.S.-based expert will support the victim throughout the recovery journey, coordinating with credit bureaus, banks, and law enforcement to guarantee a swift resolution.

## The Expense of Prevention

Presently, NordProtect is offered for just $4.49 per month, a 71% decrease from its regular pricing, making extensive identity protection more budget-friendly than many streaming services or routine coffee outings. The service includes a 30-day money-back guarantee, enabling users to take advantage of its benefits without any financial obligations.

When evaluating the potential costs tied to identity recovery, prevention stands out as a more cost-effective approach. The Identity Theft Resource Center estimates that individuals dealing with identity theft spend, on average, 200 hours resolving the situation. This considerable time commitment equates to significant lost income and extra expenses for legal aid and the purchase of monitoring services afterward.

### Conclusion

In conclusion, the holiday shopping period represents a peak time for identity theft, making robust protection essential. With NordProtect’s available offer of $4.49 per month, consumers are presented with a chance to protect their identities at an unparalleled value while alleviating the possible financial and emotional repercussions of identity theft.

Every game has its limitations, there is only so many actions you can take, narrative threads to unspool, buttons to press. What about a game that you can only play one round of every day? A game where you “take up the sword against an NPC or another girl-esque thing irl and fight until one of you is holding the lifeless, bloodstained hand of the other.” This is the description of a tiny, visceral Yuri Game Jam game called Everyday Sororicide.

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The thing about Big Business these days is that when you get Big Numbers, that normally leads to Bigger Business, right up to the point the well has not only dried up, but turned to dust. So, when you have a game like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, now winner of many Geoff Keighleys and seller of many copies, you might assume that developer Sandfall Interactive would increase the size of their operations. Apparently, you would be wrong!

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The end of a very short era is here! I guess, if you care about the life cycles of tech products made by multi-billion dollar companies. It appears that the days of the original LCD model of the Steam Deck is coming to an end, as a quiet notice from Valve suggests their focus will be with the slightly newer, shinier OLED line of handheld gaming devices.

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I’ve always found PowerWash Simulator‘s Big Brand Collabs slightly odd, if a touch humorous. They don’t always make much sense to me, like the SpongeBob one, though I will admit that the Shrek one does feel like a good fit, even if I am loath to look at intellectual property. And now here we are with its sequel, PowerWash Simulator 2, with its first bit of DLC freshly announced, sending prospective powerwashers off to a distant land called Ooo from the seminal Adventure Time.

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I mean, all you can do is laugh, right? You’ve probably already guessed at what based on the headline, but we’ll dig a little deeper into this all the same. Yes, Ark 2 has been delayed, the same Ark 2 that was revealed almost exactly five years ago, that was at one point in time promised to release in 2023, and then 2024, and then sort of half-heartedly slated for 2027, before landing where we are now, with the news that the game is currently planned for release in 2028. Uhuh!

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### The Meta Quest 3S: Your Portal to Virtual Reality Gaming

The Meta Quest 3S has become a remarkable gateway for fans keen to delve into the world of virtual reality (VR) gaming. With its affordable price tag and an extensive game library, it offers a smooth introduction for beginners. At present, the headset is available at a reduced price, enhancing its appeal. The 128GB model is listed at $250, reduced from $300, while the larger 256GB version costs $350 instead of $400. Importantly, the 256GB variant comes with the action-filled game *Batman: Arkham Shadow* at no additional charge.

#### Engaging Gaming Adventure with *Batman: Arkham Shadow*

In *Batman: Arkham Shadow*, players step into the shoes of the legendary Dark Knight, on a mission to apprehend a new villain known as the Rat King. Set against the setting of July 4th, this game serves as a narrative continuation of *Batman: Arkham Origins*, adding a deeper sense of immersion that only the Meta Quest 3S can provide. With its sophisticated headset and wireless motion controllers, players will explore Gotham City like never before, participating in exhilarating action sequences as they guide Batman through the city streets.

[See at Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6531/)

#### Access to a Rich Collection of VR Games

Upon obtaining the Meta Quest 3S, users are granted three months of Meta Quest+, providing access to over 40 VR games at no extra cost. A standout title in this assortment is *Walkabout Mini Golf*, a game that blends straightforward mechanics with immense fun. It boasts creatively crafted courses, an enjoyable multiplayer feature, and an Easter egg hunt for concealed golf balls, enabling friends to connect and play together virtually from various locations, capturing the essence of socializing in a pleasurable and relaxed atmosphere.

Another noteworthy game is *Marvel’s Deadpool VR*, which immerses players in the hectic mindset of their beloved wisecracking antihero as they combat waves of foes, all narrated by the renowned actor Neil Patrick Harris. Although it’s not part of the Meta Quest+ subscription, this title represents one of the flagship VR games of 2025 and is definitely worth checking out.

#### Improved Hardware and Features

The Meta Quest 3S represents a significant step forward compared to its predecessor, the Meta Quest 2. It features the state-of-the-art Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chipset, boosting performance and delivering smoother gameplay. Moreover, the headset’s new exterior sensors facilitate full-color passthrough, enabling users to stay aware of their real-world surroundings while immersed in VR experiences. A newly integrated action button streamlines the shift between virtual reality and mixed reality environments, enhancing the overall gaming experience.

With discounts up to $50 currently offered, there has never been a better moment to invest in the Meta Quest 3S. The 128GB version is available for just $250, while the 256GB model is priced at $350, making it a prime choice for those eager to explore the vibrant realm of VR gaming.

[See at Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6531/)

### PlayStation Portal Remote Player: A Must-Have for Mobile Gaming

The PlayStation Portal Remote Player is transforming the gaming experience for enthusiasts, allowing them to stream their favorite games straight from their console via Wi-Fi, eliminating the requirement for a larger screen. Whether you’re relaxing in bed, hanging out on the couch, or away from home, the Portal Remote Player guarantees that your gaming enjoyment is not restricted by your location.

#### Exclusive Deal

At present, Amazon has reduced the price of the PlayStation Portal Remote Player to $179 from its standard price of $200, which is a 10% savings. This time-limited promotion is available for both the white and black versions of the unit. It is crucial to be aware that this offer is valid only for today and will expire at midnight. If you’re thinking about getting this device for yourself or as a gift for a loved one, it’s wise to act swiftly, noting that shipping may take place after Christmas.

[See at Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/5815/)

#### Remote Capabilities and Specifications

Featuring a remarkable 8-inch Full HD LCD screen, the Portal Remote Player provides vivid graphics and seamless gameplay at up to 60fps. The 1080p resolution delivers superb image sharpness, immersing gamers in their virtual environments. To enhance the visual experience, the device is equipped with Tempest 3D AudioTech, allowing for wireless audio connections through PlayStation Link or via the 3.5mm audio jack for a fully immersive sound experience.

Moreover, the device incorporates adaptive triggers and haptic feedback technology, which elevate gameplay by replicating sensations that immerse players as active participants in the action.

#### How to Begin with Remote Play

To utilize the PlayStation Portal Remote Player, a broadband internet connection is essential for streaming compatible games installed on your PS5 console. While a minimum speed of 5Mbps is necessary, a faster connection of at least 15Mbps is suggested for the best gaming performance.

Configuring the Portal Remote Player is straightforward:

1. Connect your PS5 console to a broadband internet connection and enable Rest Mode.
2. Make sure Remote Play is turned on in Settings > System > Remote Play.
3. Switch on your Portal, sign in to your PlayStation Network (PSN) account, and choose the pairing option.
4. Select your console from the home screen to connect.

Be aware that certain games requiring a VR headset or extra peripherals (aside from DualShock 4, DualSense, or DualSense Edge controllers) are incompatible with the Portal Remote Player. Furthermore, while a PS Plus Premium membership is supported, it is limited to games installed on your console, providing access to a continually growing library from the Game Catalog and Classics Catalog.

#### Final Thoughts

For gamers looking for an efficient way to play their favorite titles on the go, the PlayStation Portal Remote Player is an outstanding addition to any gaming arrangement. With its current price of $179, it represents excellent value. The end of the day signifies the finish of this promotional deal, so ensure you secure your device before the opportunity passes.

[See at Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/5815/)

I went into Dispatch with a goal in mind: Be a hard-ass. Seeing the trailers for Adhoc’s revival of Telltale’s signature cinematic, choice-focused story games, I figured it would be fun to roleplay its lead, Robert Robertson, as a straight-shooting boss who only deals in tough love.

I used to play every Telltale game with a character arc in mind, largely to see whether they could bend enough to allow my interpretation. And Dispatch’s world of superheroes caught in the corporate machine handed me the perfect set-up for my story.

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**In Need of an Extra Xbox Controller? The Xbox Elite Series 2 Core is on Discount!**

If you aim to elevate your gaming sessions or simply seek a spare controller for those multiplayer matchups, now is an ideal moment to explore the Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Gaming Controller. With the festive season approaching, you can grab this high-end controller at a remarkable price.

### A Serious Xbox Controller That Will Quickly Become Your Go-To

Presently priced at **$110**, reduced from its standard price of **$150**, this amounts to a savings of **$40**, or **27% off**. For a high-quality controller, that’s an outstanding bargain, especially since most high-end alternatives are usually much pricier.

The minute you open the Elite Series 2 Core box, it becomes evident that this is a step up from the regular variants. Anticipate responsive thumbsticks, delightful button clicks, and an overall premium feel. It connects wirelessly to your Xbox or Windows PC effortlessly, allowing you to play without the inconvenience of cables. Plus, Bluetooth compatibility facilitates straightforward pairing with other compatible gadgets.

### Personalization at Your Command

A key feature of the Elite Series 2 Core is its personalization options. Unlike typical Xbox controllers, this model empowers you to adjust stick sensitivity, remap buttons, and fine-tune various configurations to suit your distinct play style. This is particularly beneficial for competitive gamers who require accurate controls tailored for specific genres, whether they are immersing themselves in first-person shooters or partaking in fighting games.

Furthermore, the Elite Series 2 Core comes with interchangeable parts, enabling you to swap different thumbsticks and paddles to modify the controller’s feel and responsiveness. This versatility guarantees that you can design the perfect setup for any game.

### Summary

With a mix of exceptional quality, extensive customization options, and wireless convenience, the Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Gaming Controller stands out in its category. Given its current discounted price, it’s prudent to contemplate acquiring one before prices might rise. Prepare for your gaming adventures and take advantage of what this sophisticated controller has to offer.

[See at Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6519/)