Updated 6/26/26: Sticker shock: RAM and SSDs are major costly components that are used in computers. Due to demand by AI data centers and global supply shortages for RAM and SSDs since late 2025, prices for new computers have increased by an average of a few hundred dollars this year. But sale prices still exist. You may be reading this because the operating system on your existing computer is no longer supported. Since you'll likely be spending the next 5-10 years or more with your next … [Read more...]
January 26, 2026 By Computer Techs
October 1, 2025 By Computer Techs
Beware: The Latest Tech Scams You Need to Know About
Updated 6/10/26: Cybercriminals are always looking for new ways to trick people, and we at Computer Techs are seeing an uptick in scams that target computer and internet users. These scams often look convincing on the surface, but with a little extra caution, you can spot the red flags before becoming a victim. Fake Invitations and Social Security Statements One of the most dangerous scams making the rounds is an email that appears to come from someone you know—a neighbor, friend, … [Read more...]
February 25, 2025 By Computer Techs
What You Need to Know About the End of Support for Windows 10
Click on image to view full-screen. Microsoft ended support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. There's no more free updates*, security patches, or technical support available from Microsoft - unless you take action. Most users have 3 options: upgrade to Windows 11, get a new computer with Windows 11, or extend Windows 10 security updates until October 2027. Upgrading to Windows 11 is recommended for most users for its advanced security, improved performance, and new features. … [Read more...]
August 11, 2026 By Computer Techs
Guilty Until Proven Innocent: Why You Should Question Every Email You Get
We’ve all been there: you open your inbox and find a message that sets off alarm bells. Maybe it’s a “critical security alert” from your bank, an unexpected delivery failure notification, or an urgent invoice. Cybercriminals are getting better at crafting these fake messages, known as "phishing," but they still leave behind a trail of breadcrumbs. Here is our comprehensive guide on how to spot a fake email before you click, reply, or download anything dangerous. Treat all unexpected emails as … [Read more...]
August 11, 2026 By Computer Techs
Tired of Junk Email in Your Inbox? 4 Simple Habits to Fix Your Inbox
Every morning begins the same way: you open your email expecting important updates, only to wade through an endless stream of miraculous diet pills, dubious inheritance offers, and sketchy promotional deals. Spam is the digital equivalent of unwanted junk mail stuffed into your physical mailbox, but you do not have to accept a cluttered inbox as a permanent reality. With a few strategic habits, you can train your email client to catch the clutter before it ever reaches your eye. Click above … [Read more...]
August 10, 2026 By Computer Techs
Learn the password manager on your smartphone
Managing dozens of complex logins doesn't require paid third-party software or scribbled sticky notes. Modern smartphones come with built-in, bank-grade password managers that auto-fill logins, generate strong passwords, and protect your digital identity across all your devices. The Native Built-In Solutions Apple's Passwords App: Introduced in iOS 18, Apple elevated its long-standing iCloud Keychain into a dedicated Passwords app. It organizes your web logins, Wi-Fi credentials, … [Read more...]
August 10, 2026 By Computer Techs
The “Helpful” Trap: How Everyday Websites Trick You Into Downloading Unwanted Software
You're searching for a quick dinner recipe, trying to download a user manual for your refrigerator, or looking for a fast way to view a PDF online. You click a link, and suddenly a pop-up appears: "To view or print this document, you must install the PDF Helper Extension." It sounds reasonable enough, so you click "Allow" or "Install." Without realizing it, you've just fallen into one of the most common web traps around: downloading a Potentially Unwanted Program (PUP) or adware. The … [Read more...]
August 7, 2026 By Computer Techs
Don’t Cut That Line Yet: The Hidden Danger of Canceling an Old Phone Number
Why Cutting Off a Phone Number Could Lock You Out of Your Digital Life Canceling a phone number feels like a simple way to cut unnecessary monthly bills. Whether you are streamlining your household expenses, switching carriers, or handling the administrative closure of a loved one’s estate, dropping an unused landline or mobile service seems straightforward. However, in an era where online security relies heavily on mobile authentication, disconnecting a number can trigger a cascade of … [Read more...]
August 3, 2026 By Computer Techs
Imposters may use information leaked in data breaches to trick you
Every year, data breaches expose the personal information of millions of people. While many worry about outright identity theft, there is another growing threat that stems from these leaks: highly convincing imposter scams. Armed with your name, phone number, and snippets of your financial or personal history gathered from the dark web, scammers can easily pose as trusted entities to steal your money. When someone claiming to be from the FTC, the FBI, or your bank's fraud department recites … [Read more...]
July 28, 2026 By Computer Techs
How to Check Your Cloud Storage Settings on Your Device or Account
Running out of cloud storage can halt your device backups, stop emails from arriving, or prevent your photos from syncing. Knowing exactly where to check your storage limits—and what is eating up that space—can save you from unexpected disruptions. Unfortunately scammers realize how important backup are and have recently started sending out fake alerts about cloud storage problems via text and email messages. Read more... Here is a step-by-step tutorial on how to check your cloud storage … [Read more...]
July 28, 2026 By Computer Techs
FTC: Scammers ask you to pay a certain way
A recent report by the Federal Trade Commission details a way to spot scams - how someone asks you to pay. Let’s say someone contacts you unexpectedly and says you have to pay to fix a problem, get a prize, or something else. But then they say the only way to pay is by bank transfer, wire transfer, cryptocurrency, payment app, or gift card. Well, reports to the FTC show that’s a scam. Last year, people reported the largest losses — more than $4 billion in total — to scams where they … [Read more...]
July 21, 2026 By Computer Techs
The End of the Text Message Code: How to Keep Your Accounts Safe
Keeping up with technology can sometimes feel like an endless chore, especially when the rules for staying safe online seem to change every day. However, a major shift is currently happening that is incredibly important for protecting your digital identity and finances. Microsoft recently announced that they are phasing out SMS (text message) codes as a way to verify your identity when logging into personal accounts. Because Microsoft is leading this charge, it’s highly likely other major … [Read more...]
July 21, 2026 By Computer Techs
Do this now before scammers or hackers take over your email, financial or other online accounts
In today’s digital age, our personal information is more valuable than ever. We use our computers and smartphones for almost everything—from checking bank balances to keeping in touch with family. But that convenience also opens doors for hackers and scams. Cybercriminals are constantly looking for easy targets, and losing access to your accounts can range from a minor headache to a catastrophic event. Your email account, in particular, is the “master key” to your digital life. It's where you … [Read more...]