Imagine if one single key unlocked your house, your car, your office, and even your safety deposit box at the bank. Convenient? Sure. Safe? Absolutely not. If you were to lose that key—or if someone were to steal it—they would instantly have access to everything important in your life. That’s exactly what happens when you reuse the same password across multiple accounts. The Convenience Trap It’s easy to see why people reuse passwords. With dozens of logins for banking, shopping, email, … [Read more...]
August 19, 2025 By Computer Techs
August 19, 2025 By Computer Techs
Check the Source to Help Stop Phishing and Scams
In today’s digital world, phishing and online scams remain some of the most common ways criminals trick people into giving up sensitive information. These attacks often look convincing—emails that appear to be from your bank, websites that resemble popular retailers, or texts that mimic delivery services. However, most phishing attempts can be uncovered with a simple habit: checking the source email address or website before taking action. Why Source Details Matter Scammers rely on urgency … [Read more...]
June 24, 2025 By Computer Techs
The Anxiety of Data Breaches and Dark Web PII Exposure: What You Can and Cannot Do
In today’s digital world, data breaches are no longer rare events—they are a near-constant threat. From social media platforms to healthcare providers to internet service providers, major organizations have seen their systems compromised, often resulting in personally identifiable information (PII), being leaked onto the dark web. Understandably, this has created a new wave of anxiety for individuals—many of whom have no idea their data has been exposed until it’s too late. But while the fear … [Read more...]
April 22, 2025 By Computer Techs
Why Retirees Are Targets for Identity Theft or Credit Fraud
When people retire, it’s easy to assume that certain financial concerns fade away—especially the fear of identity theft or credit fraud. After all, if you're no longer applying for loans or opening new credit cards, why would anyone want to target your credit file? In reality, seniors remain prime targets for identity thieves, and freezing your credit can be one of the simplest and most effective ways to guard against potential financial harm. Here’s why even retirees should seriously … [Read more...]
March 18, 2025 By Computer Techs
Can your data really be taken off the dark web?
While no service can guarantee the complete and permanent removal of your data from the dark web, some services can reduce your exposure. Here's a breakdown of what they can and cannot do: What Dark Web Monitoring Services Can Do: Monitor: These services continuously scan known dark web marketplaces, forums, and other hidden areas for your personal information. This includes things like: Email addresses Passwords Social Security numbers Credit card numbers Bank account … [Read more...]
February 18, 2025 By Computer Techs
Learn how to spot scams that pop-up on your screen – and how to close your browser
This article originally published September 2015 - updated March 2017, February 2025 Malicious advertisements or links can redirect your web browser to webpage designed to look like an official warning from Microsoft or Apple. The fake warnings often have the following characteristics: Tell you that there's a problem with your computer, it's been blocked, and you need to call the number presented immediately to prevent harm Tell you NOT to turn off your computer The warnings are … [Read more...]
January 20, 2025 By Computer Techs
Understanding Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Enhancing Your Online Security
With the rise in cyber threats and data breaches, protecting your online accounts is more crucial than ever. One of the most effective ways to secure them is through Two-Factor Authentication (2FA). This guide explores what 2FA is, how it works, and why it’s essential for safeguarding your digital identity. What is Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)? Two-factor authentication is an extra layer of security used to verify that a user attempting to log into an online account is who they claim to … [Read more...]
October 20, 2024 By Computer Techs
Laptop Battery Bulging: A Cause for Concern
Laptop batteries are essential components that power our devices. However, over time, these batteries can experience issues, one of which is bulging. This phenomenon occurs when the battery's internal components expand, causing the casing to bulge outward. While it may seem like a minor cosmetic issue, a bulging battery can pose safety risks and should be addressed promptly. Causes of Laptop Battery Bulging Several factors can contribute to laptop battery bulging: Overcharging: … [Read more...]
September 29, 2024 By Computer Techs
What to do if you’ve been notified that your personal information has been exposed in a data breach or is on the dark web
A data breach can be a frightening experience. If it's the first time you've ever been notified that your personally identifiable information (PII) has been exposed, it's important to take immediate action to protect yourself from potential identity theft or other harm. Here's a step-by-step guide on what to do: 1. Assess the Damage Review the breach notification: Companies are required by law to inform you about the breach and provide details on what data was exposed. Understand exactly … [Read more...]
August 30, 2024 By Computer Techs
National Public Data Breach Exposes 2.9 Billion Records: How to Check if Your Information Was Exposed
A significant data breach including 2.9 billion records from the company National Public Data has compromised the personal information of many millions of Americans. National Public Data normally sells data to companies for the purpose of background checks, criminal records and more. But it appears that much, if not all of the data they've obtained over the years has been leaked. The breach includes sensitive data such as names, addresses, Social Security numbers and birthdates - information … [Read more...]