Rick's Daily Tips

Q&A: Is it safe to completely disable Windows updates?

Posted on April 6, 2025

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Question from Michael: I recently bought a new desktop computer to replace the one I’ve been using for the past six years.

It seems like the updates I’ve been installing on this new machine have all been filled with bugs because almost every time I install them something goes wrong.

The last time it happened my nephew had to completely reinstall Windows for me.

I’d like to completely disable the installation of updates on the new PC. Is it safe to do that? [Read more…]

Clear out junk with Windows 11’s Cleanup Recommendations tool

Posted on April 5, 2025

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As you probably know, Windows PCs tend to accumulate tons of “junk” that takes up valuable storage space on your machine’s hard drive or SSD.

There are numerous “system cleanup” apps that will clear this junk out for you, but Windows 11 now has it’s own native tool for this. It’s called “Cleanup Recommendations” and it’s very easy to use. [Read more…]

Scam alert: Protect yourself against fraudulent or misleading crowdfunding campaigns

Posted on April 4, 2025

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Crowdfunding campaigns have been around for a while now, and truth be told, they have really helped a lot of people out of some really unfortunate jams and done lots of good for the world overall.

Sites like Kickstarter, IndieGogo, GoFundMe and others have helped bring numerous innovative new products to market and allowed families in need to raise much needed cash for critical surgeries, emergency housing after devastating fires and countless other legitimate needs.

But unfortunately the emergence of crowdfunding has also made it much easier for scammers to take advantage of kind-hearted and generous people on a massive scale. [Read more…]

How to quickly create a Desktop shortcut to any app on your PC

Posted on April 3, 2025

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It’s very easy to remove a shortcut (icon) from the Desktop on a Windows PC. In fact there are several ways to do it, including:

1 – Right-Click on the icon and then click Delete.

2 – Left-click on the icon to select it, then press the Delete key on your keyboard.

But have you noticed that there is no obvious way to create a Desktop shortcut to an app? [Read more…]

Scam alert: Beware the dangerous ‘Expiring Apple ID’ phishing scam

Posted on April 3, 2025

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Well, another very insidious phishing scam is making the rounds again.

This one won’t show up in your Facebook Newsfeed or in an email.

Instead, you’ll receive it in an SMS text message, and if you fall for the bait it could end up costing you dearly.

The scam works like this…

[Read more…]