It took 41 years: Windows Notepad finally has spellcheck and autocorrect. In Windows 11, it’s enabled by default. You’ll know it’s working if you see a squiggly, red line under typos. To turn it off, click the gear icon in the top right corner of Notepad and toggle off both under “Spelling.”
Can't find your favorite candies to hand out on Halloween? Blame ransomware
Cybercriminals employ all sorts of strategies to ply their crooked trade. Ransomware attacks are just what they sound like. An attacker gains access to your files through your computer or network and locks them down. They demand payment — the ransom — in exchange for releasing your files.
Your No. 1 defense against ransomware is keeping a recent backup of all your files. When you have that, their threats are moot. Tap or click for smart tips and tricks to protect yourself from online attacks.
Ransomware attacks against large companies, governments and even the military are nothing new, but now criminals have hit a new target: A U.S. candy company. That means your favorite Halloween treats may be tough to find this year.
Not so sweet
The Chicago Tribune reports that one of the largest candy manufacturers in the country was targeted by a ransomware attack. Chicago-based Ferrera discovered an attack on Oct. 9 that encrypted its systems, disrupting production.
Ferrara is the country’s largest producer of candy corn, along with SweeTarts, Laffy Taffy, Nerds, Red Hots, Lemonheads, Atomic Fireballs, Trolli gummies and Everlasting Gobstoppers.
The company is still working with law enforcement to get things back to normal and has resumed production at some of its manufacturing facilities. A spokesperson from Ferrera told the Chicago Tribune that the company is now shipping from all its distribution centers across the country.
Halloween might not be ruined, but what about Thanksgiving? Tap or click here to see how supply chain issues could affect your chances on getting the bird you want. Our advice: Don’t wait when you see turkeys at your grocery store!
You’re at risk, too
Large companies are attractive targets for hackers, but everyday people are at risk, too. Hackers can target large groups of individuals all at once with sophisticated phishing attempts or go after just a single person. They can not only lock your files, but also often threaten to release them to the public.
You can reduce your chance of falling victim to a ransomware attack by taking some precautions.
- Keep your operating systems, apps and devices updated with the latest official software and patches.
- Don’t click links or open attachments in unsolicited texts or emails.
- Use strong, unique passwords for all of your accounts. Many browsers have built-in password managers that do the job for you.
- Enable two-factor authentication for your devices and online accounts whenever possible.
- Hover over a link to see if the URL is legitimate. Be aware that scammers can work around this precaution.
Fall is coming! Use this map to see where the leaves are changing
The changing of seasons usually brings with it a beautiful display of colors. Going from winter to spring or summer to fall, the myriad of hues can transform the landscape overnight.
But few seasonal changes are as dramatic as when it shifts from summer into the bright yellows, oranges and reds of fall. It can be a spectacle to behold, and many people travel around the country to see it up close. Tap or click here for seven travel hacks to save you time and money on your next trip.
Is your Wi-Fi router spying for China?
Federal officials are raising red flags over TP-Link, warning their products might be linked to Chinese espionage. Plus, Redbox files for bankruptcy, Taylor Swift drops cassettes, and Apple’s next iPhone features AI.
Fake business grants are on the rise: Red flags: You got it without applying, they contacted you on social media, and/or you’ve never heard of the “federal agency” behind the grant. They may also ask for upfront payments, say the funds can be used for “anything,” and then ask for personal info you already sent in your application. Watch out.
Every 13 miles
How often Tesla’s Full Self-Driving mode requires human intervention. In a 1,000-mile test, drivers had to intervene to prevent dangerous behavior more than 75 times. The good: Self-driving mode brakes for pedestrians and lets oncoming cars through. The bad: It also runs red lights and drives into oncoming traffic. Just say no.
Quickest way to fix dead pixels on your monitor
Your monitor is made up of millions of pixels. Each pixel is a group of red, green and blue subpixels that combine to create the images you see on your computer screen. When a few are dead or stuck, it can be super distracting.
Don't fall for this Medicare scam coming after seniors
Healthcare has never been more important than it is now. Hospital treatment is expensive, and the COVID-19 pandemic has increased the risk of needing emergency care — especially for seniors. And don’t think scammers aren’t paying attention to this.
100,000 seasonal workers
Coming onboard at Targets across the U.S. Good to know, if you want to pick up extra Christmas money! Here’s where to apply online. Ugh, I accidentally wore a red shirt to Target, and now I’m covering for Frank in produce this weekend.
70% increase in cancer
In young people, and Red Bull might be to blame. Researchers believe taurine (one of the main ingredients in energy drinks) is used as a primary energy source for cancer cells. More research is coming, but this is scary. Talk to your people.
4 colors
Mosquitoes love most: Red, orange, black and cyan (a bright green-blue). Researchers found the pesky bugs are most likely to ignore green, purple, blue and white. Summer color scheme: Check! ✅
Apple’s iPhone spyware problem is worsening: Attacks mostly against journalists, activists and government representatives have been reported in over 150 countries. Common red flags: Faster-than-usual battery drainage, high data usage and unexpected shutdowns. If you’re a journalist or activist, or if you work for the government, turn on Lockdown mode.
Smart speakers are great: But if you’re worried about accidental (or intentional) eavesdropping, find and use the mic mute and camera shutter buttons on your devices. On an Echo, the light will turn red to indicate the mic is off.