Smart Phone Tips Archives - Rick's Daily Tips

How (and when) to boot your Android device into Safe Mode

Posted on March 6, 2026

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If you’re a Windows or Mac user you probably know that restarting your computer in Safe Mode is a great way to troubleshoot software problems that are difficult to track down when everything but the kitchen sink is running on the machine.

In a nutshell, booting a device into Safe Mode ensures that only the most essential parts of the operating system and the most basic hardware drivers are loaded into memory to make it easier to track down those most stubborn issues.

Luckily, Android devices can be booted into Safe Mode as well. [Read more…]

How to remotely erase a lost or stolen smartphone to protect your sensitive info

Posted on February 24, 2026

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Have you ever stopped to consider just how much of your digital life is stored on your smartphone?

First, there are the names and phone numbers of all your contacts (and possibly their email addresses and other sensitive info as well).

Then there are apps for accessing your bank account, your social media accounts and the accounts for all the other online services you use (and possibly the usernames and passwords to those accounts as well). [Read more…]

How (and why) to stop mobile apps from tracking your location

Posted on February 21, 2026

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Did you know that at least some of the apps on your phone are probably tracking your location even if the app doesn’t need location data in order to perform the task it was intended for.

Of course a Maps app has a legitimate need to track your location, for obvious reasons.

So does an app that keeps you up-to-date on where to buy the cheapest gasoline in the area you happen to be driving through. [Read more…]

Q&A: Is a 6 digit PIN really all that much more secure than 4 digits?

Posted on February 20, 2026

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Question from Andy: My girlfriend and I have a bet that’s riding on your answer to this question:

Is a six digit PIN really all that more secure than a four digit PIN?

It don’t seem like just two digits could make that much of a difference. She says it makes a big difference if someone ever tries to break into my phone.

So who’s right? [Read more…]

How Internet access changes when you travel abroad

Posted on January 30, 2026

When you travel to a new country, you expect things to be different. You know the food will be unfamiliar, the shops will work different hours, and even the way people greet each other might be new. But what many travelers don’t consider is how different the internet can be abroad.

At home, getting online is usually a breeze. You just hop on your home Wi-Fi or use your mobile data, and you’re connected. But when you’re traveling, what was once a simple task can become a frustrating challenge, even for seasoned globetrotters. [Read more…]