Think about how much of your private info lives inside your phone. And with a clever trick, hackers can access all of it. In this episode of Komando on Demand, Kim explores the serious threat of hijacking smartphones and how cybercriminals can ruin your life. She talks with an ethical hacker about what you can do to safeguard your device.
The clever way hackers can hijack your phone and steal your info
Avoid work-from-home scams and make money with legitimate jobs
You see work-from-home ads everywhere, from roadside posters to online pop-up ads. Are they a legitimate way to make money? The answer is complicated. In this episode of Komando on Demand, Kim takes a look at work-at-home scams and horror stories about honest people who just wanted to earn a little extra cash. Listen and learn from their mistakes.
The Gig Economy: Short-term, temporary ways to make a quick buck
Looking to make an extra buck? In the Gig Economy, earning money isn’t just about the 9-to-5 grind. Tech is changing the landscape of earning, for both employers and workers. In this episode of Komando on Demand, Kim takes a look at how people are making a quick buck on sites like Wonolo, Bellhops, Doordash and others — and talks to Randi Himelfarb, a video editor thriving in the Gig Economy.
Online reputation: What to do when someone tries to destroy yours
What if a complete stranger, or even worse someone you trust, decides to ruin your life? How easy would it be for them to destroy your career, credibility and social life? In this episode, Kim looks at the maliciousness of destroying someone online. Kim talks to a former cyberbully as well as Shannon Wilkinson, Founder and CEO of Reputation Communications, to find solutions for this problem.
How gamers are earning millions through esports
Gamers are making thousands and even millions of dollars per year, making esports a proven career option, but it’s not an easy way to earn a living. Kim dives into what you need to know to succeed as a pro gamer, straight from today’s top players and nerd culture journalist Jessica Roar.
The 2017 Equifax security breach — Are you eligible for a $20K payout?
Equifax is paying big time for its 2017 data breach — to the tune of $750 million. Consumers could get up to $20,000. I’ll tell you how to out if you’re entitled to a payout.
Don't get fooled by bogus support lines
When you have a tech problem, do you turn to a Google search for the solution? That could come back to bite you with the number of scammers impersonating real companies. I’ll tell you why you should do your homework next time you’re looking for tech support.
Hidden cameras are watching: Privacy in the digital age
Hidden cameras are everywhere, and if you’re concerned about your privacy on vacation … you should be. More and more travelers are finding cameras in rentals and hotels — often hidden in unexpected places. Kim shares why spy cameras have become so commonplace, how to spot them, and what to do if you’ve been recorded without your say.
Google Sr. Software Engineer: "Are we going to allow the biggest tech companies to decide who wins every election?"
Are tech companies politically neutral? Here’s what one senior Google employee has to say about the role of big tech in politics and the upcoming election season.
Don't buy a new iPhone ... yet
In the market for a new phone, laptop, or TV? Not so fast. Now might not be the best time to pull the trigger. I’ll tell you how to time your purchases so you’re always on the cutting edge.
Watch what you say on review sites
Have you ever vented about a negative experience on a review site like Yelp? Be careful: You could get sued. Here’s what speaking your mind on the web can lead to.
The lunacy of social media management
Facebook’s bad decisions never fail to surprise me. The social media giant decides what users can and can’t post on its various platforms, and sometimes the results leave me scratching my head.
The viral FaceApp is facing serious heat
FaceApp, the Russian-backed app that produces aged selfies, is under fire. Celebrities, politicians and all your friends on social media are doing the #AgingChallenge, and it could have consequences.
Is technology stealing our ability to think critically?
Technology gives us access to more knowledge than ever, but is it also dumbing us down? Think about how often you turn to the internet to answer your questions or solve your problems. Could that dependence on tech inhibit us from thinking critically and making decisions? Kim talks with experts about technology, psychology and the changing definition of intelligence.
Your smartphone and Apollo 11
The 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing is this weekend, and it’s got me thinking about how far technology has come in 50 years. In fact, the smartphone you use to call, text and browse is light-years ahead of the technology used by NASA way back when.
Apollo 11 anniversary: Music that's out of this world
Ever wonder what astronauts listened to in Mission Control? If you’re looking for some tunes to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing, I’ve got you covered. Rock on! #Apollo50th
Microchips could replace credit cards — would you get one?
Imagine paying for your next purchase with just a swipe of your hand, no credit card required. Sounds nice in theory, but would you be willing to have a chip implanted in your hand to make it a reality?
Why I'm no longer using Alexa or Google's assistant
Privacy concerns just keep piling up for virtual assistants, and I’m saying enough is enough. Here’s why I’m done with smart speakers hanging on my every word.
Amazon Prime Day starts Monday, but deals are already here
If you’ve got your eye on a new piece of tech, now’s the time. Amazon Prime Day starts Monday, but deals have already begun. I’ll tell you how to find the best deals of the summer — on Amazon and otherwise.
Travel tips: Don't get hacked, scammed or tracked
Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, you’re a prime target for hackers, scammers and identity theft. Learn crucial safety practices to protect your wallet, privacy, bank account and home. In this episode, you’ll get useful, actionable tips and tricks to stay safe.