Simple Tech Tips for Home Computer Users
Windows, Mac, and mobile tech support – networking – Internet safety – consumer technology
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
Time once again for my updated guidelines on creating passwords. The short version: use passphrases that are at least 12 characters long and different on every site, plus two-factor authentication where possible. And for pity’s sake, stop using weak passwords! Many people say to me, “I don’t need a secure password. I don’t have anything … Continue reading How To Create Strong Passwords (2016 Edition)
If you’re not protecting your Mac from Internet threats, your computer can easily be overcome by viruses and malware. But running antivirus isn’t enough. Mac users also need to be just as aware of scams, fake apps, and other Internet dangers as their Windows counterparts. Here are some resources to get you started. Mac Antivirus … Continue reading Security Basics For Mac Users
Today's computer viruses go beyond mere annoyance. How does holding your data for ransom sound? What about spying on you through your webcam, tracking your physical location, recording every keystroke you make? Welcome to the modern generation of computer threats, where infection means real-world consequences. The latest virus making the rounds is Cryptolocker, a textbook … Continue reading Cryptolocker: Why Modern Computer Viruses Are More Dangerous Than Ever
When was the last time you checked the privacy settings on your social media accounts? Once? Twice? Never? If you don't check periodically, you run the risk of having your account hijacked by hackers. Related article: Strong passwords key to social media privacy by Triona Guidry (The Northwest Herald) What do you mean by "social … Continue reading How To Protect Your Privacy On Social Media Sites Like Facebook And Twitter
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
Smile! Your private life might be streaming live on the Internet! Did you know hackers use viruses to commandeer the webcam on your computer, tablet, or smart phone? Makes you think about all the places you take these devices, and what they could be recording. In this month's The Northwest Herald I talk about the dangers … Continue reading Your Webcam Can Be Used Against You
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 (Revised Edition)
Once your data is in the cloud you lose all control of it. A journalist's online persona was recently hijacked through hackers' clever and scary manipulation of Apple and Amazon's tech support. This could happen to any of us, at any time. A description of the incident from the journalist, Mat Honan, who works for … Continue reading Apple & Amazon Customer Service Hacked: Can The Cloud Be Trusted?
Social media site LinkedIn suffered a major security breach this week as over 6 million passwords were stolen. First, here's a great quote from eWeek that explains why you need to pay attention to data breaches. The compromise of a LinkedIn account has three important ramifications, opined Carl Leonard, senior manager of security researcher at Websense. "First, the … Continue reading Lessons Learned From The LinkedIn Password Hack
Simple Tech Tips for Home Computer Users 