Kim Komando Daily Tech Update

Another day, another scam. But don't think this one is just the like the others. Here's how these frightening sextortion scams work and what you can do to prevent yourself from being blackmailed and harassed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When you think about someone using your wireless network, you might think lagging video or slow performance. But what about criminals using your network in ways you don't even want to imagine? It's possible, and I'm sharing a trick to prevent it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hundreds of parents in Canada are preparing to take legal action against the producers of Fornite. Why? Their kids are addicted. But is the game itself really to blame? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mind-reading tech isn't just a sci-fi trope. It's becoming a reality, and Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg is leading the charge. And I, for one, don't trust it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I know you're probably not too happy Big Tech is tracking you, but how often do you consider what your employer is watching? It may surprise you how much spying your company can (legally) get away with. I'll tell you why they're watching so closely. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Did you spring for Apple's pricey (and easy to misplace) AirPods? If so, I've got bad news for you. Sure, they sound good, but there's an important reason you should keep your receipt handy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How much do you think a cybercriminal would pay for your passwords, debit card info or even your Social Security number? The answer will surprise you. Find out your worth on the web. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Open up your latest cable bill. You may be shocked to find hidden fees you didn't realize add up to hundreds of dollars each year. Here's what to look for and exactly what you should do if you find them. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Think the small business you own or work for isn't on the radar for hackers? Think again. I'll tell you the most common attack and exactly how to avoid it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As Facebook is working to make its messaging more private for users, the Justice Department is ramping up the fight for backdoor access. Here's my take on encrypted messages sent through Facebook and WhatsApp. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If the cost of Photoshop keeps you from getting deeper into photography, I can help! I'll tell you about 3 alternatives you can use for free. And don't worry, they're beginner friendly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Making strong passwords is a pain, but there's really no excuse to leave your accounts unprotected. Google is making it even easier for users with a new feature, and I have a trick you'll use time and again. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You'll hardly believe the nightmare a Wisconsin couple endured after a hacker took over their smart thermostat and tormented them for an entire day. There's one thing you must do to protect yourself from this kind of intrusion. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gone are the days of taking product reviews at face value. Companies may be working hard behind the scenes to skew what you see. Here are three red flags to look for next time you're shopping on the web. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Equifax is paying big time for its 2017 data breach — to the tune of $750 million. Consumers could get up to $20,000. I'll tell you how to out if you're entitled to a payout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When you have a tech problem, do you turn to a Google search for the solution? That could come back to bite you with the number of scammers impersonating real companies. I'll tell you why you should do your homework next time you're looking for tech support. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are tech companies politically neutral? Here's what one senior Google employee has to say about the role of big tech in politics and the upcoming election season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the market for a new phone, laptop, or TV? Not so fast. Now might not be the best time to pull the trigger. I'll tell you how to time your purchases so you're always on the cutting edge. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever vented about a negative experience on a review site like Yelp? Be careful: You could get sued. Here's what speaking your mind on the web can lead to. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Facebook's bad decisions never fail to surprise me. The social media giant decides what users can and can't post on its various platforms, and sometimes the results leave me scratching my head. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

FaceApp, the Russian-backed app that produces aged selfies, is under fire. Celebrities, politicians and all your friends on social media are doing the #AgingChallenge, and it could have consequences. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing is this weekend, and it's got me thinking about how far technology has come in 50 years. In fact, the smartphone you use to call, text and browse is light-years ahead of the technology used by NASA way back when. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever wonder what astronauts listened to in Mission Control? If you're looking for some tunes to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing, I've got you covered. Rock on! #Apollo50th Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Imagine paying for your next purchase with just a swipe of your hand, no credit card required. Sounds nice in theory, but would you be willing to have a chip implanted in your hand to make it a reality? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Privacy concerns just keep piling up for virtual assistants, and I'm saying enough is enough. Here's why I'm done with smart speakers hanging on my every word. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you've got your eye on a new piece of tech, now's the time. Amazon Prime Day starts Monday, but deals have already begun. I'll tell you how to find the best deals of the summer — on Amazon and otherwise. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

All phone batteries and accessories aren't created equal. An Oklahoma City mom learned that the hard way when the inside of her SUV was severely damaged after her iPhone went up in flames. I'll tell you how to avoid accidents like this one. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The robocalls just keep coming. Have you been hit by the influx of phony government agency calls? If you use this a major wireless carrier, you could get some relief — if you wait a few months. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're a parent, you know the struggle of getting your child to put down the phone, tablet, computer or video game. Some are even enlisting help in the battle over screen time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Yes, browsers are free of charge, but they come with hidden costs, some more than others. Find out why Kim predicts a browser war is imminent. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Looking for a good movie or a show to binge watch this holiday weekend? These sites will help you find exactly what you're in the mood for. Say goodbye to wasting time paging through menus, and spend more time enjoying your favorite content. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There are more ways than ever to earn money from home, giving you the power to achieve financial independence. I share how to find legitimate work-from-home opportunities for workers of any interest and skill level. Happy Fourth of July! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You don't want to miss Amazon's annual sale. This year it's expanded to two days, and other retailers are getting in on the fun with their own discounts. That means even better deals on great tech and gadgets for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As parents, we teach our kids what behavior is acceptable and what isn't — that includes what they're doing online. Find out why I'm saying "no way" to what some researchers are calling "healthy." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Think back to your first cell phone — now look at your smartphone. I bet you appreciate how far mobile devices have come. But if you're waiting for the next revolution in wireless, don't hold your breath. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You've probably come to expect targeted advertising based on your online searches, but how else are companies discovering what products and services to market to you? This is what one CEO is saying and why I'm taking it with a grain of salt. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You know your computer, smartphone and tablet are targets for hackers and viruses, but it's time to add the rest of your smart gadgets to the list. Here's how to keep everything from your TV to your appliances safe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You probably don't think twice before handing over your credit or debit card at a restaurant. But scammers are targeting your favorite places to eat, and it's putting diner data at risk. I'll tell you the best way to protect yourself. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Technology is giving us all new ways to stay connected to our neighbors. Whether you're worried about crime and security, looking to buy or sell items or just want to stay in the know, these sites and apps are your digital connection to what's happening in your neighborhood. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Google tracks you online and offline, and you may be surprised at how much data there really is on your preferences, browsing history, searches, purchases and more. Here's an easy way to see what info is stored on Google's servers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If webpages aren't loading, videos are endlessly buffering and using more than one device is a headache, you may not be getting the connection speed you pay for. Before you resign yourself to living with slow internet, use my quick and easy tip to find out if you should be getting more from your provider. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Drivers are more distracted than ever behind the wheel, and we have smartphones to blame. I'll tell you just how pervasive — and dangerous — distracted driving is. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you’ve ever lost your phone, you know the pain of losing hundreds or even thousands of pictures of friends, family, pets, vacations and special occasions. Listen and learn 3 ways to make sure your photos are safe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is a weak mobile signal in your home or office driving you up the wall? Boost your service with these tips, including one you can do right now ⁠— for free. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Summer is here, and while you're prepping for a relaxing vacation, hackers are getting ready to take advantage of unsuspecting travelers. Here's how to keep your data and devices safe no matter where you're headed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are your family's phones set up for ICE -- in case of emergency -- contacts? Would an emergency responder know about your child's severe allergies? Are mom and dad flagged as emergency contacts? Listen and learn how to set these up for everyone in the family. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As a vacation property owner, frequent traveler and tech expert, Kim knows a thing or two about hidden cameras. Learn how to spot technology that could invade your privacy before you rent from Vrbo or Airbnb. You have to hear this. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when you sign up for something and don't read the terms of service? Your personal information can end up on the internet for the world to see. Maybe the intent was good in the story you're about to hear, but listen and learn so it doesn't happen to you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Take a guess -- how much do you think cybercriminals would pay for your user names, passwords and other personal data? This is one area where you want to be undervalued. Kim has the story. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is there an app for that? People wanting a good night's sleep are downloading apps they think will help them go to dreamland. But now, a doctor in London says the apps often make us so anxious about getting sleep that we're getting full-blown insomnia. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices