Olivia Powell
Olivia joined Tom's Guide in October 2023 as part of the core Future Tech Software team, and is the Commissioning Editor for Tech Software. With a background in cybersecurity, Olivia stays up-to-date with all things cyber and creates content across TechRadar Pro, TechRadar and Tom’s Guide.
After graduating with a degree in English Literature from the University of Exeter, Olivia got her official start in journalism writing magazines for the events industry, writing for Exhibition News, Conference News, All Access, Exhibition World and Conference and Meeting World both in print and online. After this, she delved into the world of customer experience at CX Network, then the cybersecurity sector when she became Editor in Chief for Cyber Security Hub. This saw her create content from webinars to blogs to research reports on all things cyber before finally ending up at Tom's Guide.
Olivia was also shortlisted for Security Serious' Unsung Heroes award in the Cyber Writer category in 2023.
When not writing about the latest in tech software, Olivia can be found reading mystery novels, watching the X-Files or doing valuable research in her quest to find the best Italian restaurant in London.
Latest articles by Olivia Powell
How to get around the US TikTok ban
By Aleksandar Stevanović last updated
The best ways to get around the US TikTok ban now that it has gone ahead
TikTok is under fire for harvesting data – but is it worse than any other social media platform?
By Olivia Powell last updated
TikTok is in the spotlight over data concerns but does it collect any more than other popular social media platforms we use?
Best TikTok VPN: evade bans and access anywhere
By Mo Harber-Lamond last updated
VPN Skepticism of TikTok has reached an all-time high, and demand for TikTok VPN services is rapidly rising. Here are the ones we trust the most.
The US TikTok ban – a full timeline
By Olivia Powell last updated
Every time TikTok has clashed with the US government, from COPPA violations to the potential ban
Private Internet Access is falling behind with features – but who cares?
By Catherine Hiley published
While it may not come with the same added extras as other VPNs, Private Internet Access is still a great VPN
What is the dark web?
By Alex Hughes published
Everything you need to know about the dark web and what it's actually used for
The best Australia VPN in 2025
By Krishi Chowdhary last updated
VPNs down under Whether you live Down Under or you're just visiting, an Australia VPN is the easiest way to access more streaming content and stay safe online.
What are the benefits of using a VPN?
By Krishi Chowdhary last updated
VPNs are everywhere these days – but why bother investing in one? Here are the biggest and best VPN benefits.
Are VPNs legal?
By Krishi Chowdhary last updated
Using a VPN may or may not be illegal depending on where you are and what you are trying to do. Read our in-depth guide for total clarity on the topic.
Are VPNs safe?
By Krishi Chowdhary last updated
A VPN may or may not be safe. Read our in-depth guide if you're unsure on whether or not it is safe to use a VPN.
The top cyber threats to watch out for in 2025
By Olivia Powell published
Experts reveal what the top cyber threats to look out for in 2025 will be.
The top 10 data breaches of 2024
By Olivia Powell published
It's time to look back at all the biggest data breaches we saw this year
Got a new device? Here's how to keep it safe
By Catherine Hiley published
The best software to protect all the new device you and your loved ones got for Christmas
Merry Phishmas? How to avoid scams this holiday season
By Olivia Powell published
The top scams to look out for this holiday season – and how to avoid getting caught out
Why Santa Claus needs a VPN and so do you
By Olivia Powell last updated
Safer Santa Why using a VPN can ensure all is calm and bright this Christmas
How a VPN can help you get the most out of your new Fire Stick
By Olivia Powell last updated
Get access to content from across the world with a Fire Stick VPN
PrivadoVPN review
By Shaun Rockwood last updated
PrivadoVPN is now faster and great at unblocking, with the bonus of a decent free version to try before you buy.
ExpressVPN vs NordVPN: Which provider is best?
By Sam Dawson last updated
vpn Here, we're comparing NordVPN vs ExpressVPN in all the key areas—from speed and streaming to security and app compatibility.
What is a dedicated IP?
By Krishi Chowdhary published
Most VPNs offer dedicated IP addresses as an add-on, but what are they, and are they worth getting?
How to switch VPN providers
By Olivia Powell last updated
This step-by-step guide includes everything you need to know about switching VPN providers
How to set up a PS5 VPN: everything you need to know
By Mo Harber-Lamond last updated
vpn PlayStations don't natively support VPN connections, but getting a PS5 VPN isn't out of the question. Here are all your options.
Get the most out of your new Xbox with a gaming VPN
By Olivia Powell last updated
Enhance your gaming experience on the Xbox you got in the Black Friday sales with a VPN
What to do after buying a device in the Black Friday sales
By Catherine Hiley last updated
The best software to protect the new devices you snapped up in the sales
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