When you work in Tech, the questions never end. One I get over and over again: “Kim, was my computer hacked?” Maybe. There are tell-tale signs someone or something has compromised your system.
Not every situation is so scary. “Kim, how do I scan stuff with my phone?” I’ve got your back.
I got a text from a number I felt I should have known not long ago, but it wasn’t saved in my phone. There’s a smart trick I used to find it. I’m sharing that and other tech problem-solvers below.
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Instead of replying, “Who is this?” there’s a hack you’re going to use time and time again. TikTokker Liz Perez put it on her channel and it blew up.
If you get a text from an unknown number, Mobile Payment Apps like Venmo, CashApp, Zelle or PayPal can help you put a name to that number.
Copy and paste the number into the app and the mystery sender’s name might just be unveiled.
Now, this hack only works if you have an account with one of those mobile payment apps, and the sender must also use their real name and number in the app. But it’s better than shooting in the dark.
Pro-tip: Be sure to disable your mobile payment app from sharing your name and phone number with other people. The steps vary per app. For example, in Venmo, open Settings, Friends and Social and toggle off Phone contacts.
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Ever wandered around a parking lot searching for your car? Google Maps will help you find your parking spot easily — and automatically. Remember this next time you brave the mall.
On iPhone or Android:
Google Maps saves your parking location until you remove it. Now, you just need to remember what you did with your keys.
You’ve come across a website that offers an incredible promise of a free trip to Hawaii. Aloha! All the site needs is your personal info and a credit card. Before taking the plunge, ensure you’re not getting screwed over.
A WHOIS lookup search checks a database that contains information about domain names and their registrants — so you can find out who owns the website and see if they have a real business address and contact information.
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It’s so easy for your phone number to land on a marketing list, whether you bought something or simply made a call. There’s a way to stop this, and you really should.
And there you have it: Tech life hacks good enough to share.
My popular podcast is called “Kim Komando Today.” It’s a solid 30 minutes of tech news, tips, and callers with tech questions like you from all over the country. Search for it wherever you get your podcasts. For your convenience, hit the link below for a recent episode.
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Plus, do you often think about ancient Rome? Why a viral meme says it’s always on guys’ minds. Google Bard sifts through your inbox — here’s what that means for privacy. Pro-tips for scheduling work meetings and hotel room hotspots you should most definitely clean.
Check out my podcast “Kim Komando Today” on Apple, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player.
Listen to the podcast here or wherever you get your podcasts. Just search for my last name, “Komando.”
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source https://www.foxnews.com/tech/smart-tech-life-hacks-save-time-keep-safe
