Rick's Daily Tips

Scam alert: Don’t fall for this dangerous virus notification scam

Posted on June 9, 2024

Rick’s Tech Tips Newsletter

As you probably already know, scams and hoaxes are everywhere these days, and some of them are quite believable and compelling.

It’s very easy to fall for some of these scams because they mimic actions that are taken by legitimate programs and online services.

One of the most dangerous scams that’s making the rounds right now is the insidious “Your computer has a virus!” scam. There are several variations of this scam, but they typically work something like this… [Read more…]

How to disable ‘Smart Compose’ in Gmail

Posted on June 9, 2024

If you use Gmail you’ve probably noticed how Google provides suggestions for how to complete your sentences as you’re typing out your emails.

This feature is called “Smart Compose”, and Google’s stated reason for providing it is to help you write your emails faster by providing suggested text snippets based upon your past writings.

As with all things, some folks love the Smart Compose feature, while others detest it. [Read more…]

Scam alert: Don’t fall for this irritating Facebook Privacy hoax

Posted on June 8, 2024

It seems that the scammers and spammers rarely take a break from their Facebook activities, and right now they seem to be working overtime.

Every now and then a slightly new variation of the old “Facebook Privacy” hoax pops up, prompting millions of Facebook users to fall for the hoax and share it with their friends.

The latest incarnation of this hoax is actually a retread of an old one that makes the rounds several times a year. It reads something like this: [Read more…]

Q&A: How do I stop Windows from repeatedly booting into Safe Mode?

Posted on June 6, 2024

Question from Jenna: I need your help, Rick.

I turned my computer on this morning and it booted up into Safe Mode instead of the normal mode.

I tried restarting the computer several times and it always boots into Safe Mode.

It’s an HP laptop with Windows 10. How can I make it boot up normally like it should? [Read more…]

Q&A: Can I connect Bluetooth speakers to an older stereo system?

Posted on June 6, 2024

Note: The links in this post are affiliate links.

Question from George: I know your site is mostly about computers but I hope you can answer a question about my audio gear.

I have an older Sony stereo system that I’d love to connect some Bluetooth speakers and headphones to.

The problem is the stereo doesn’t have Bluetooth built in.

Is there any way to connect Bluetooth speakers/headphones to one of these old non-Bluetooth stereos? [Read more…]