Ask a tech expert: What is the best way to keep private photos hidden?
I’m a fashion photographer and I’ve taken tasteful intimate photos of my gorgeous wife that we don’t want anyone else to see. I know I can’t just save them on my Windows computer or iCloud. What should I do?
— Listener in Miami, FL
You’re on the right track! I don’t recommend relying on Google Drive or iCloud alone. For one, they’re obvious targets for hackers. If someone gets their hands on your Google login or Apple ID, they get access to all your photos, including those meant for your eyes only.
The most secure option is a trustworthy cloud storage company that lets you set up a private encryption key. That means only you can unlock the photos, videos and documents you store there. My pick is IDrive.
Another option is to compress and encrypt sensitive images. On a PC, try a free service like 7-Zip. You’ll add files to a folder and then compress them into a ZIP file. You don’t need to create an account or download anything to use this open-source software.
Here’s how it works: Open 7-Zip, select the file or folder you want to compress and click Add.
After you save the folder to your computer, you can encrypt it. To do this on a Windows PC:
- Right-click on the file or folder.
- Click Properties > Advanced.
- Select the box that says Encrypt contents to secure data.
- Select OK > Apply > OK.
You can use Disk Utility to password-protect a folder to get the job done on a Mac. This works like a ZIP file, using Mac’s encryption method. Here’s how it works:
- Click the magnifying glass in the upper right corner and type Disk Utility. Hit enter.
- In the top menu, click File > New Image. Find the folder you want to encrypt and click Choose.
- Give the folder a name and choose where you want to save it.
- Under Encryption, choose 256-bit for the strongest encryption. Click Save, then set a password.
Give the folder time to process. This could take a bit, depending on how large the files are.
There are ways to password-protect photos on your phone, too.
Ask a tech expert: How can I stop annoying group text notifications?
Here’s the deal: Group chats are fun when you’re happy to be there and awful when you don’t care about the convo.
The adult move is to ask whoever added you to remove you. Or you can do the ol’ Irish exit if you have an iPhone. Tap the thread, then select the group icon at the top. Scroll and tap Delete and Block this Conversation.
Ask Kim: 'Can you help me choose an Echo device?'
Absolutely! First things first, here’s how I like to use mine:
Both are totally solid, but I would go with the Echo Show 10. It’s bigger, faster and newer, and just about every spec is upgraded. The Echo Show 8 is certainly more affordable, but this is something you want to buy once and forget about for a few years. This model is already over two years old.
We may receive a commission when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.
Ask a tech expert: What can I do after my computer was hacked?
So awful. Let’s start with the computer: If he wants to keep it, he must do a full factory reset and start from scratch. A new router is also smart in case the person behind this enabled remote access.
He’s got other work to do, too. He needs to change every single one of his passwords, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on every account and install antivirus software.
Ask a tech expert: How can I make it easier for my mom with dementia to find her shows?
What a pain, Todd. You’re a good son to try to make this easier for her. I found an excellent solution for you: the SofaBaton X1 universal remote control.
It’s a programmable universal remote that simplifies life with one-touch activities. Press a single button and control your TV, stereo, whatever.
We may receive a commission when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.
Digital detox: How to put your phone down this summer
The idea of a digital detox is nothing new. Heck, the phrase brings up 66.6 million Google Search results.
Speaking of Google, you should hide your address, phone number and any other private details that come up in a search. Get the simple steps to do that here.
I’m a tech expert: 5 answers to solve your tech dilemmas
As a national radio host, I’ve heard all the tech questions over the years. “Is Facebook always listening to me?” They don’t need to — since they collect so much info about you.
“How do I know if someone is snooping on my computer?” Not all snoops realize they leave tech breadcrumbs. You can outsmart them.
I’m a tech expert with tricks for clear calls, saving money and more privacy
When you’re a tech-savvy friend, people ask for help. It comes with the territory.
And who helps those people? Me! I’ve always got your back with new tricks, tips and secrets to master your devices. Browse the hidden apps you didn’t know are built-in to your iPhone or Android.