Simple Tech Tips for Home Computer Users
Windows, Mac, and mobile tech support – networking – Internet safety – consumer technology
Fake apps proliferate online, and it’s hard to tell the good apps from the bad. Scammers are getting sneakier by hiding their malicious apps behind the smokescreen of reputable ones. Your garden-variety fake app is typically malware disguised as a fun game or useful utility. Behind the shiny exterior lies code that can steal your … Continue reading When Good Apps Go Bad: How to Avoid Malicious Software
If there's one thing you do for your own computer safety, please, use strong, unique passwords! Doing so decreases your chances of suffering virus infection, account hijacking, identity theft, and even financial fraud. People continually re-use passwords, or create weak passwords, or don't change the default passwords on important devices like routers and smart home gadgets. … Continue reading The Essential Guide to Strong Passwords (2021 Edition)
One of the most common questions I hear from parents is, “How can I set up parental control software?” But parental controls aren’t a panacea for keeping your kids safe online. Let’s talk about when to use parental controls… and when not to use them. Most computers have basic built-in parental controls, like the ability … Continue reading The Pros and Cons of Parental Control Software
Virtual private networks are easy to use despite the complicated name. Let’s cut through the tech jargon and talk about how you can use a VPN to protect your home computer. To understand VPNs, we need to know a little about how the Internet works. Every online service, from Facebook to Amazon to your local … Continue reading How to Use a VPN to Protect Your Home Computer
Two-factor authentication, or 2FA, is an easy way to add extra security to your accounts. Here’s what home users need to know about setting up and using 2FA. How Two-Factor Authentication WorksTwo-factor authentication works in tandem with your password. When logging in, you’ll enter your password plus a one-time token, such as a code sent … Continue reading The Beginner’s Guide to Two-Factor Authentication
With everyone relying on webcams and microphones these days, it’s vital to know how to protect yourself from accidental—or intentional—spying. Cameras can be hijacked in a number of ways. Cybercriminals can commandeer them with viruses or ransomware, then extort you by demanding money for the deletion of potentially embarrassing photos and videos. There’s always the … Continue reading How to Stop Your Webcam and Microphone From Spying On You
If there's one thing you do for your own computer safety, please, use strong, unique passwords! Doing so decreases your chances of suffering virus infection, account hijacking, identity theft, and even financial fraud. People continually re-use passwords, or create weak passwords, or don't change the default passwords on important devices like routers and smart home gadgets. … Continue reading How To Create Strong Passwords (2020 Edition)
Voice activated assistants are everywhere, but they may reveal more than you intend. Many of the major tech companies including Amazon, Google, and Apple have admitted to allowing human employees or contractors to listen to recordings in an effort to improve their services. There have also been instances of voice assistants activating accidentally, and at … Continue reading How to Check Your Voice Assistant Privacy Settings
There’s been a lot of talk lately about “sharenting,” or parents oversharing information about their children on the Internet. Some parents believe they should be able to share their parenting experience as they see fit. But many children, as they grow older and realize the plethora of information that their parents have posted about them, … Continue reading The Risks Of Sharenting: When Parents Post Too Much About Their Kids Online (And How To Share Safely)
Talking with your child about Internet safety can seem overwhelming, but there are some excellent resources available to help. Remember, protecting your kids online starts with protecting your computer from viruses and malware. Teach your kids to use strong, unique passwords, and to avoid oversharing photos and personal information. Monitor the sites your kids visit … Continue reading Internet Safety For Parents and Kids
