4 common tech support problems you can fix at home
There’s a lot to be said regarding the feeling of empowerment we earn after tackling an annoying computer problem on our own. If you’re an independent computer owner who doesn’t need a thing from anyone, you will want to check out our best advice for fixing common issues.
But sometimes, you need a little help. You need to be careful when searching for tech support because there are many scammers. Tap or click here for examples of dangerous tech support scams.
If you want to try fixing tech issues on your own, we can help. Keep reading for common problems and potential fixes.
1. You can’t log in
Are Caps Lock on? Did you change your password recently? Before picking up the phone, ensure you haven’t been locked out or suspended. Password management software can help you maintain order regarding different credential combos.
Of course, a simple password reset is always a fast way to resolve the problem when all else fails. Keep your backup contact info up-to-date for quick verification, and you’ll be made in the shade.
2. Your computer is running slow
If you can, perform a hard reset and see if the issue clears up. Next, try to pare away unnecessary Windows and applications to see if you can improve the situation.
Too many files stored locally and too many shady browser extensions can cause your computer to behave sluggishly. Avoid downloading random apps and programs, and remove anything that appears to change your computer’s performance.
Antivirus software is a must, as it can run regular checks and flag anything causing a problem. While you can use your Activity Monitor to check out what is slowing your computer down, we advise against deleting things manually.
3. Your printer is not responding
Printers, scanners and other peripheral devices are notorious for being finicky at the worst possible time. Reconfiguring your printer settings, reinstalling your drivers and scrutinizing the device for paper jams and the like should be among the first things you try.
5 clues that your email has been hacked
Scams are rising, and more people are falling for phishing attacks and email hacks than ever. Tap or click here for three immediate steps to take if you fell for a scam.
Just think about how often you open an email from someone you trust and click a link or download an attachment. Every one of those times is a chance for an enterprising cybercriminal to fool you.
Millions of customer details leaked in the latest data breach - Here's what you should do
When you sign up for an account, your information is stored by the company or service so you can, or the company, access it as needed. It’s a perfectly normal part of the digital age — handing out our full names, addresses, credit card info and more.
Facebook security warning: Thousands of passwords stolen
Stolen social media accounts are a hot commodity on Dark Web marketplaces. The average Facebook account sells for about $74.50, making the social network a priority target for phishing scams and cybercriminals.
Phishing campaigns make it easy to steal large quantities of login credentials at once. All scammers need to do is create a fake login page and trick victims into signing in. Tap or click here to see a copyright notice phishing scam targeting Facebook users.
Phishing scam uses a smart trick to fool Microsoft users
Phishing campaigns are all about deception — so when their tactics are uncovered, hackers behind them throw everything they can at the wall to see what sticks. The result: Increasingly bizarre techniques that look more like Wile E. Coyote than a dangerous hacking spree.
Netflix scam: This symbol means someone has stolen your account
Businesses may be suffering under the COVID-19 pandemic, but Netflix certainly isn’t one of them. With so many people indoors for months at a time, the platform has seen its overall usage skyrocket.
Because of this, scammers and hackers of the world are targeting Netflix users as part of their widespread phishing campaigns. The goal: Steal login information and potentially sell it on the Dark Web. Tap or click here to find out more about phishing attacks on Netflix and Zoom.