Warning: Don't share codes from text messages with anyone - Q&A: Why are new computers slower than really old ones?
Enjoy today's selection of practical, easy-to-follow tech tips.
Rick's Daily Tips Tech Update for Sunday, July 24, 2022.
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Today’s quick tech tip…
Warning: Don't share codes from text messages with anyone
Lots of folks are now receiving messages from online "friends" asking them to send them a code they received in a text message.
They always have some excuse for needing the code, but regardless of what they tell you do not send them that code.
What they're doing is trying to break into one of your online accounts that's protected by Two-Factor Authentication.
The actual scams are numerous and vary greatly, but here's how one of the most common variations works:
First, the scammer tricks you into handing over the password to your Facebook account (or enough personal information for them to guess the password). This is often done via a phishing email.
If the scammer has your mobile phone number (which they probably got off your Facebook profile's "About" page) they simply try to log into your account with your password.
They then send you a message asking you to send them the Two-Factor Authentication code that was just sent to your phone as a result of their login attempt.
If you comply and send them the code they'll be able to use it to complete the login process.
Once they're logged into your account they can do anything with the account that you can do yourself. And if they so desire, they can even lock you out of it.
The thing is, this same type of scam is helping hackers gain access to many other types of accounts, including bank accounts and other types of financial accounts.
Bottom line: If a "friend" sends you a message asking for a code you received via SMS text message, do not send it. That person isn't really a friend. They're a scammer.
And now, a quick recommendation...
If your phone number is currently displayed on your Facebook account's Profile page, take it off ASAP. Just sayin'.
The latest from Rick’s Daily Tips Tech Blog...
• Q&A: Why are new computers slower than really old ones?
A reader wants to know why his brand new laptop seems to be a lot slower than his 20+ year old desktop PC. This post has the answer.
• Scam alert: Beware fake ads for concert and event tickets
Fraudulent ads on Facebook and elsewhere are hawking non-existent tickets for concerts and other events. This post explains how to recognize and avoid those malicious ads.
• Click here to see today's 'Picture of the Day'.
Every morning I post a new photo that I find inspiring, intriguing, or just plain beautiful to look at. Jumpstart your day by checking it out.
Bonus tips from the web’s other best Tech sites...
Every day I hand-pick five of the best tips I can find on my favorite tech sites and share them via the Premium edition of this newsletter.
Premium subscribers received these extra bonus tips today:
• How to customize and maintain Apple IDs on multiple devices
• Are you giving your Android apps too many permissions?
• Discord on Xbox: How to download and use voice chat on Xbox consoles
• 7 tips to keep your tech from overheating
• How to build a PC from scratch: A beginner’s guide for building your own computer
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Today's post from 'My Daily Smile'...
The awesome power of kindness and compassion
Being kind and helping someone in need will often come full circle and end up helping you as well.
Tech news that caught my eye...
• Netflix starts linking iPhone and iPad users to an external sign-up page
• Google thinks its new programming language can topple C++
• The new MacBook Air runs so hot that it affects performance
• Samsung could be bringing thousands of new jobs to Texas
• At long last, Microsoft PowerPoint for iOS will let you highlight any text
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Thanks so much, and have an amazing day.
Your tech buddy,
Rick Rouse