Simple Tech Tips for Home Computer Users
Windows, Mac, and mobile tech support – networking – Internet safety – consumer technology
Tech support scams are a continuing threat to consumers, especially with so many people working from home. Here’s how to avoid them, and how to find real tech support. A tech support scam usually starts with a fake phone call, phishing email, or pop-up ad. Phone calls are an especially popular choice for reaching consumers … Continue reading What You Need to Know About Tech Support Scams
How do you know if a web site is safe? Do you look for the lock icon? Would it surprise you to learn that isn’t enough? Consumers have long been taught to look for the lock icon or “https” in the address bar to determine whether or not a site is secure. Years ago, when … Continue reading “Secure” Web Sites Aren’t Always Secure
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
Few of us maintain the same security precautions on our tablets and phones that we do on our computers. But mobile devices contain personal data, and they go wherever we do. Here’s what you need to know to keep your mobile devices protected. In general the same security rules we use for computers also apply … Continue reading A Home User’s Guide to Mobile Device Internet Security
Most people let old accounts languish. But abandoned accounts are filled with information that can be used to send spam, spread malvertising, and commit cybercrimes. For example, I frequently get email messages from people I know, but haven’t talked to in a while. Invariably the email subject is blank or says nothing but, “Re:”. Sometimes the … Continue reading Why You Need To Delete Your Old Accounts
It's hard to protect kids online, because parents and educators often have a hard time finding resources that can help them understand the latest risks and recommendations. I've gathered a variety of information in one place so you can learn about antivirus, parental controls, and protecting your kids while using mobile devices and video games. … Continue reading A Parent’s Guide To Protecting Your Kids Online
Everyone knows you're supposed to make backups, but choosing a method can be confusing. Here's a rundown of your choices for Windows and Mac. Related article: Today's Backups Offer More Flexibility by Triona Guidry (The Northwest Herald) Built-In Backups All modern computers come with utilities which you can use to back up to an external … Continue reading How To Backup And Restore Files On Your PC Or Mac
Many people say to me, "I don't need a secure password. I don't have anything sensitive on my computer, so I don't care if a hacker gets in." You, my friends, are a hacker's dream. Because it's not necessarily your personal information they want, although they'll happily steal your credit card info if they can. … Continue reading How To Create Secure Passwords
Simple Tech Tips for Home Computer Users 