Rick's Daily Tips

How to force a Windows Desktop shortcut to always ‘Run as Administrator’ by default

Posted on June 12, 2026

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One of the things I like most about Microsoft Windows is the ability to create shortcuts on the Windows Desktop that simplify the execution of common tasks.

For example, I find myself creating a lot of System Restore Points on my PC so I created a handy desktop shortcut that creates a new Restore Point every time I click on it.

This particular shortcut makes it easy for me to quickly create a Restore Point at any time without having to wade through a series of menus. [Read more…]

Simple tips and tricks for passing most any written test

Posted on June 11, 2026

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Back in my school days I usually did quite well at taking tests. I guess I was blessed with that gift.

Some people are just better at taking tests than others, and it really has little, if anything, to do with intelligence (or even preparation).

I remember several major tests and exams on which I ended up receiving higher scores than friends who I thought to be a lot “smarter” and better prepared than I was.

All of the above being said, the results of a research study headed by a Mr. William Poundstone indicates that there are tricks (statistical and otherwise) that can help anyone do better on most any test. [Read more…]

Q&A: How can I completely remove Norton antivirus from my PC?

Posted on June 10, 2026

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Question from Dagan: I’ve been using Norton 360 for years, but it recently let a bunch of viruses slip through and get installed on my computer.

Norton removes a bunch of viruses every time I run it but they just keep coming right back.

I want to ditch Norton and install Malwarebytes Premium but I know you’re only supposed to run one antivirus app at a time.

The problem I’m having is I can’t seem to get all the Norton 360 files uninstalled so that I can install Malwarebytes. The Windows thingy that uninstalls programs gets rid of some of the Norton files but some of them come right back when I reboot the computer.

How can I completely uninstall ALL the Norton files from my hard drive? [Read more…]

Scam alert: Fake ‘Update Chrome’ notices are spreading malware

Posted on June 9, 2026

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The hackers and scammers of the world never seem to take a break. There’s a very dangerous Chrome Update related scam that’s making the rounds right now.

In a nutshell, the scam works by either spawning a pop-up on your PC or sending you an email saying you need to click a link in order to install an important security-related update on your Chrome browser.

If you click that link you’ll immediately be taken to a malicious web page that will download malware onto your computer.

This is an easy scam to avoid as long as you always remember to never attempt to update Chrome or any other browser via a third-party website. Always install any pending browser updates manually using the update tool that’s actually built into the browser. [Read more…]

Why you (probably) need an external USB optical drive

Posted on June 8, 2026

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Note: The links in this post are affiliate links.

If your family is like mine, you probably have a stack of CDs or DVDs containing numerous photos, videos, music or other precious files that can never be replaced.

Would you be heart-broken if you ever lost access to those precious, irreplaceable files? [Read more…]