Rogue Chromium Browsers

Everyone is free to choose what web browser to use on their computer. Many people use Edge or Safari, because it came as part of the operating system on the computer. Others opt for Chrome or Firefox. But what is worrisome and worth warning about is the use of rogue Chromium browsers. I hope I … Read more

The Bitcoin Purchase Scam

The Bitcoin Purchase Scam is rather common right now, and I’d recommend you become familiar with it. It is just another Thank-You-For-Your-Purchase scam, and there is no truth to what’s in the message. In short, this scam’s email announces a charge for a Bitcoin purchase you didn’t make. That’s because there was no purchase, but … Read more

Typical Facebook Scams

Scams continue to abound on Facebook, despite efforts and apologies from the man at the top. If you’re going to use this platform, please be aware of these typical Facebook scams, so that you don’t get taken: Hair Stylist Scams If you’re looking for a new ‘do, please be cautious you don’t get taken by … Read more

I’ll Pass on Copilot

Copilot is Microsoft’s take on the AI craze. If you use a Windows computer, you’ve probably noticed that Copilot has silently added itself to your taskbar and/or web browser. But not everyone appreciates or cares for this AI tool. If you’re saying, “I’ll pass on Copilot,” here are some steps you can take to get … Read more

Evite Phishing

There’s a phishing email going around that looks like an Evite. Here’s what you need to know about it: Phishing Photos The bogus message looks like this: This email, if you receive one, may have one of your friend’s email at the top. But please don’t believe in this thing. This is all a sham. … Read more

Do You Need a VPN?

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a tool for creating a secure connection between your computer and the websites you visit with it. It sounds like a sensible piece of protection for your computer. But do you need a VPN? Most security companies would respond with an empathic Yes!, but keep in mind that they’re … Read more

Facebook Guest Chat

Update as of 2/13/2024: Readers recently brought to my attention that they couldn’t follow the steps below. After I looked into it, I can see that Meta has changed their Settings Pages, and you may not be able to disable this feature. But as it turns out, that’s OK. Because they’ve disabled the entire Chat … Read more

Scam Electricity-Saving Devices

This post is not really a computer tip, per se, but I’ll cover it anyway. Scam electricity-saving devices are rather tangential to what I write about here, and quite a few people are asking me about them. So heads up! Here’s what I can find and say about these things: Power Saving Devices These things … Read more

Avoid Using Registry Cleaners

The Windows operating system has this central database that it uses constantly, while your computer is running. Better know as the Windows registry, it is essential for your PC’s operation. It’s hidden away where you won’t see it, and only advanced users ever meddle with it. And yet, some helpful apps offer to clean and … Read more

Flea Power

Computers and other tech devices retain small amounts of electricity even when turned off and unplugged. Some of it is deliberately stored in capacitors on circuit boards. Other energy is incidentally caught up as a static charge. In any case, this minute amount of electricity is called Flea Power. It’s a Bug, Not a Feature … Read more