15 tech tricks you’ll wish you knew sooner

Most gadgets don’t come with a user manual that spells out every feature. We learn them by doing, when someone spills the beans or asking, “How’d you do that?”

For example, no one thinks to dive into a new router’s settings. The more connected devices you have, the more critical is this step. Tap or click here for a few essential steps to ensure your files, data, and network are safe from hackers and snoops.

Even more critical to your safety is your smartphone. In case of an emergency, dialing 911 isn’t your only option. Tap or click to set up emergency iPhone and Android features that could one day save your life. Please do it now before you need it.

Let’s jump into 15 tech tricks and hacks. Knowledge is power. Share your tricks with me here on Twitter.com/KimKomando.

1. Share a Nest Cam video feed

The Nest Cam is great for getting live video streams, see any past events, and get instant alerts of motion and sound. Many people are unaware that you can easily share a Nest cam’s view. I permitted my sisters to see my mother’s Nest cam in her living room.

The big gotcha is how you share the video stream. Do not select a public link. That means anyone with the link can see the stream without a password.

Use the option for a password-protected link. This way, only people you give both the link and password get the video stream, and other people will not have access to your Nest home and the devices connected to it. Up to ten people will be able to view the video stream simultaneously.

  • Sign in to the Nest app with a computer. For some reason, you can’t change the camera’s privacy settings on a phone or tablet.
  • Select the Camera that you want to share > Settings > Camera sharing.
  • You have two options: Share with password or Share publicly. Select Share with password: Click this to let specific people view your camera’s live stream. They’ll need the link to your camera and they’ll need to enter the password you set.

If you ever want to stop sharing your camera, click on the Stop sharing camera button.

2. Built-in dictation

Do you send texts with Siri or Google Assistant? It’s a big time saver. You can use built-in dictation on your computer, too.

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Security tip: How to choose and install cameras that upload right to the cloud

Picture this: You’re sleeping soundly in your bed one night. Suddenly, shattering glass jerks you awake. If a burglar’s combing through your home and snatching up your valuables, your mind’s probably racing 100 miles per hour.

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AirPod hearing aids, Tesla’s autopilot danger & steamy texts online

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Plus, do you know how your doorbell data is being used? If you have a Ring or Nest cam, it’s being sold. I talk to a man who didn’t fall for a scam, thanks to my advice. Times to post online to go viral, track all the shows you watch, and how to find hidden spy cams.

5 hidden Google Nest Cam settings you need to use

Having a personal butler at your front door is convenient, especially if you are worried about safety and security. But few can afford to employ an Alfred or a Belvedere. As an alternative, many have been turning to Google Nest’s smart cameras and doorbells.

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