Rick's Daily Tips

Q&A: Lightning destroyed my cable modem. Should I replace my router too?

Posted on August 7, 2025

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Question from Kendra: Hi, Rick. We had a pretty bad thunderstorm last night that caused a lot of damage in my area.

Once I noticed the lightning I turned everything off like I always do when it’s storming and then went on to bed.

This morning when I turned everything back on I couldn’t get the cable box or the modem to light up at all. They’re completely dead.

I called the cable company and they’re sending a technician out to replace the cable box and modem.

What I need to know is do you think I need to buy a new router too? It lights up like it always did and it appears to be working. [Read more…]

Scam alert: Beware this dangerous ‘Ray-Ban Sunglasses Discount’ scam

Posted on August 7, 2025

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I’ve recently noticed a major increase in the number of scam posts claiming to offer Ray-Ban sunglasses at huge discounts, often at up to 90% off.

These Ray-Ban discount scams have been making the rounds for years, but typically just a few here and there at any given time.

But right now it seems they’re everywhere.

These Ray-Ban scams take many forms, but the most common one consists of a simple image similar to the one below: [Read more…]

The fast track to funds: Top websites for quick withdrawals

Posted on August 7, 2025

In today’s rapidly growing online world, it is more important to be able to earn money and get it faster than ever. Many people earn whatever they want to add, save for something special, or simply feel better knowing that they have a little more money when needed.

A quick way to get your money is a great help for all these goals. Now there are many new websites and apps for this. They allow you to finish the job and then get their money without waiting. These are simple to use. Once you do your task, the money comes to you fast.

The fact that these sites and apps are fast and easy can change the way you handle your money. It gives you more freedom over your income and can help you feel calmer about your finances. [Read more…]

Q&A: How can I find a driver and software for an older printer?

Posted on August 5, 2025

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Question from Alice: The hard drive in my Windows desktop PC stopped working and I had to have it replaced.

When I got the computer back from the shop I realized I needed to install the driver and software for my Brother MFC-J6520DW printer.

The problem is I seem to have lost the disc. I’ve searched my office from top to bottom and I can’t find it anywhere.

Can you help me track down a copy of the software someplace? I’ll gladly buy a disc if I need to.

I love this printer and I really don’t want to replace it unless I absolutely have to. [Read more…]

Huge list of retailers, restaurants and other venues that offer student discounts

Posted on August 5, 2025

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Are you a student (or the parent of a student) in possession of a valid student ID card?

If so, that little piece of plastic is your ticket to some awesome discounts and savings.

Our friends over at StudentBeans have compiled a large list of retailers, restaurants and other venues that offer discounts to current students.

[Read more…]