Did someone secretly slip an AirTag into your car or purse? You might be in danger. Listen to this one-minute podcast for a surefire way to protect yourself.
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The simple but dangerous mistake you make with your phone every day
Your smartphone has many settings to protect your privacy, and you may not always be aware of them. Tap or click here for new iPhone and Android security features to turn on.
Then there’s the other side of the coin. There are some features you should leave off, especially if you’re not using them. Some are minor annoyances, while others can expose you to cybercriminals.
Here’s one common setting that has many uses, but it also has a big drawback.
Bluetooth is everywhere
Bluetooth is a short-range wireless radio technology that allows different devices to communicate with each other. You’ll find the tech in modern cars, speakers, TVs, headphones, keyboards, mice, printers and more.
Bluetooth works similarly to Wi-Fi and cellular networks but performs simpler tasks at shorter ranges. You don’t need a cellular signal or network connection to use Bluetooth, and it doesn’t use data.
Bluetooth is a ubiquitous and convenient technology included with just about every smartphone you can buy nowadays. But as with a Wi-Fi network or other connection, it has vulnerabilities.
Hacks and scams
There are a few ways threat actors can take advantage of Bluetooth-enabled devices:
- They can send spam messages and malicious links to trick you into providing personal information or downloading malware.
- Hackers can connect to your phone and install malware or backdoor access. They can then listen in on your conversations, read your messages and access your contacts. They are, in essence, bugging your phone.
- Cybercriminals can retrieve information from your phone, such as call logs, photos and passwords and use it to commit identity theft or hold it for ransom.
Hackers and scammers need to be close to you to use Bluetooth to hijack your phone, and this can occur in just about any public space.
What you can do about it
How to know if hackers are in your phone
The iPhone has a reputation for being secure. Apple has a closed operating system (as opposed to Android’s open-source) and more closely monitors and vets apps in the App Store. And with just one phone model, the iPhone, Apple can more easily push out updates and pressure its users to download them.
Quick tech tricks to make the busy holiday season easier
For some people, the holidays are all about relaxing at home. If you have extra time on your hands, do yourself a favor and organize your messy photo collection. Tap or click to see how I get the job done.
Are you visiting family? Look for your favorite old photos hanging on their walls or tucked away in albums. Tap or click for an app to scan them without any glare.
Never lose your Apple gadgets again when you enable this simple setting
The Find My app has long been a part of Apple’s ecosystem. The app helps you find your missing devices even if they don’t have a Wi-Fi or cellular connection. It works using your device’s Bluetooth signals, which nearby iPhones, iPads and Macs can pick up to relay the signal back to you.
5 smart ways to use Bluetooth trackers like AirTags or Tiles
Do you ever worry about your loved ones when they’re away? Put Apple AirTags on their keychains. Here’s why, in one minute.
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An AirTag, a stolen motorbike and a broken nose
What would you do if a tracker led you to your stolen motorbike? Listen to this one-minute podcast to find out what might happen if you try to get revenge.
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Can't find something you KNOW you read online? This is the genius solution
Your browser history is a record of the sites you’ve visited. This includes download history, search history, cookies and the time and day you visited each site.
This is useful when you want to revisit a page. It’s not so great when you’re sharing a computer with others. For privacy’s sake, you’ll want to clear your history, even if no one else uses your computer. Tap or click here for instructions on wiping your browser and social media histories.
iPhone lagging? Clear your cache and RAM to speed it up
Have you ever had issues with your smartphone to the point where you considered buying a new one? You’re browsing through websites or using your everyday apps and you notice a lag, for example. This kind of slowdown can creep into your phone’s other functions as well, bringing everything to a crawl.
Apple AirTags: 5 smart pro tips to get the most out of your tracker
Apple AirTags are the modern solution to the age-old problem: Where did I put my keys?
These helpful little trackers can help you find just about anything. Attach one to your keyring, backpack, or iPad case and you’ll never lose them again.
A murder suspect says she used an Apple AirTag to track her cheating boyfriend
GPS trackers are great for keeping track of your keys, laptop, remote control, and anything you don’t want to lose.
Trackers can also help you find luggage when you’re traveling. It may be a good idea to throw one in your carry-on. Tap or click here for more smart tech tips that’ll ease your mind when you’re on the go.
If you hear this sound, someone could be tracking you
There are few things more frustrating than when you reach for your car or house keys, only to find that they are not where they are supposed to be. You usually end up in a frantic search, even looking in places you know they won’t be.
Review: This not only keeps your keys organized, but also makes them hard to lose
Last year, I downsized to a smaller wallet that fits in my front pocket (which you can see here). There is no need to carry all those credit cards and loyalty cards around when many are stored digitally on my phone.
I did the same thing a few years ago with my keys, cutting down the excess bulk I take with me each day. A smaller, lighter keychain can also prove easier to lose.
7 new iPhone security and privacy features you MUST use
Smartphone developers are constantly working to introduce patches and updates for your device. You shouldn’t hesitate to update as soon as one rolls out, as it could contain important security features to protect you from hacks, malware, viruses and more.
From new emoji to Universal Control - Update your iPhone, iPad and Mac now
You should never stall when Apple unrolls a new software update. Cybersecurity professionals work hard to patch the latest vulnerabilities so you’re safe from newly discovered threats. That’s not the only reason why you should update your devices, though.
Worried about stalkers and thieves using AirTags? Apple is making these changes
GPS trackers are designed to help you find your missing things. They’re great for keeping track of your keys, laptop, purse, luggage, remote control and pretty much anything you can think of.
Unfortunately, these little devices can be used to commit crimes. Crooks are hiding AirTags on cars to track them to the owner’s home and steal the automobile later. Tap or click here for our report and tips on avoiding falling victim to this scheme.
Watch out for these modified AirTags that won't alert you if someone is tracking you
Bluetooth trackers are designed to help you keep track of your stuff. You can attach one to just about anything and avoid losing it. This works well for your keys, wallet, purse, laptop and more.
Apple AirTags have become quite popular since their introduction. Beyond frequently misplaced items, there are more innovative ways to use these helpful little devices. Attach one to your luggage when traveling. Keep track of your pets and small children. Tap or click here for more ideas.
Stalkers are using AirTags — Here's how to protect yourself
Modern tech gadgets make stalking easier than before — which means you need to be aware of the many ways people can track you. One husband always knew where his wife went, down to her arrival and departure times, although she didn’t tell him the details. When she asked me for help, I told her he was probably tracking her through Google, which keeps a secret map of everywhere you’ve been.
How to find your phone when it’s lost (even if the battery is dead)
I love my husband, but he misplaces everything from his keys to his wallet more often than you would think is even possible.
It was more of a pain years ago. These days, I’ve slapped an Apple AirTag on anything I can that he owns. We even have one on our golden retriever’s collar, just in case. Tap or click for more ingenious ways to use AirTags and Tile trackers.
A woman found an AirTag hidden under her car - Here's how to spot them
GPS-style tracking units are useful for keeping track of your stuff. Simply attach one of these devices to your keys, purse, laptop bag or anything else you don’t want to lose. If the worst happens and an item goes missing, you have a fighting chance to track it down.