Tech is expensive! Ways you’re wasting money and smart fixes to save

Look around your house. How much do you think you have spent on gadgets and tech subscriptions over the years?

With shiny new gear popping up daily and yet another streaming service there to woo you, it’s hard to stop the flow of cash. I can help. Here are all the best ways to scan without shelling out money for a scanner. You’re welcome.

Lots of quality software is free, too, if you know where to look, like these nine free copycats that work like a charm.

Before you pull out your credit card again, read through this list of mistakes that might be costing you cash and easy fixes to spend less.

The problem: You’re tempted by that expensive new phone

Tech companies hype their new releases like no other. Listen to what Apple has to say, and the new iPhone will change your life. The same goes for the latest and greatest from Samsung and all the rest.

Here’s what they don’t want you to know: The changes to today’s new models aren’t all that groundbreaking. The cameras are just a little better. There’s a bit more storage. Maybe your battery will last a few hours longer. Big whoop.

If you have a phone just a generation or two old, there’s no need to buy something new. In fact, I often tell people to buy an older generation when they want to upgrade. You can save hundreds of dollars and you’ll still get a great phone.

The fix: Make your old phone feel shiny and new again

Today, you can get several years from your device. Still, if your phone is more than a few months old, you’ll start to feel it.

I don’t mean the gunk on the outside — though I did put together a smart guide on cleaning up your tech. Here’s the best way to make your screen sparkle without scratching it.

Take a few minutes to clean up what’s inside your phone, too. Cached files, memes and screenshots, outdated contacts and other digital clutter are easy to sweep away if you’re willing to put in a little time. Get steps to deep clean your phone the right way.

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Money tight? Tricks to help you save big on holiday gifts

There’s no denying how expensive things are right now. Get as many years as possible out of the things that cost a ton to replace. Tap or click for 10 mistakes killing your appliances.

Some wallet drains are more subtle. Leaving your tech plugged in all the time can cost you a decent amount of money. Tap or click here for the most significant energy suckers.

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Set up alerts to see what your customers are saying about you

You know that brand identity and popular opinion matter if you own a business. Recommendations from existing customers can go a long way to increase business, so what customers say about you is crucial information you can use to promote your brand.

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Massive shopping scams use great deals to fool you

Do you remember that old saying, “If it looks too good to be true, it probably is?” That warning is every bit as relevant today as it was when it originated. Buyers need to beware of retail scams because they’re everywhere — and that’s especially true in the age of online shopping.

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Avoid checking your phone constantly and set up only coronavirus alerts you need

If you’re like most Americans, you’ve probably been buried in an avalanche of coronavirus and COVID-19-related news the past few weeks.

It’s easy to get sucked into the nonstop march of stories, but did you know it can be damaging to your mental health to follow too closely? Tap or click here to discover an app that can improve your mental health and well-being.

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