Tired of getting texts from unknown numbers talking about the upcoming election? Here are a few great tips to help keep your sanity until November is over.
Stop using 2FA text codes already
ChatGPT
Today’s a short but super important security tip. If you’re still getting login codes via text on your phone, stop. That’s so 2010 and one of the biggest mistakes people make when it comes to online security.
Sure, it’s convenient. You type in your password, get a six-digit code via SMS, enter it, and you’re in. But here’s the problem: Hackers have figured out how to steal those codes.
Receiving that six-digit SMS code might feel like security … in the same way locking your front door but leaving the keys under the mat outside does.
It’s called SIM swapping. A scammer tricks your phone carrier into transferring your number to their device. Once they have it, they receive all your texts, including those security codes. Just like that, they can log into your accounts.
And if you have your devices set up like mine, where each one receives all your texts and emails, someone around you can easily access your accounts.
So, what should you use? Glad you asked.
An authenticator app
You want to ditch texts and use an authenticator app. I recommend two free and trusted ones:
✅ Google Authenticator
✅ Microsoft Authenticator
These apps don’t send codes to you. They generate them right on your phone, changing every 30 seconds. Since nothing’s being sent over the airwaves, hackers or snoops can’t intercept anything.
Even better, these codes work offline. No signal? No problem.
Will AI steal your job next?
92 million jobs could disappear by 2030. A new report says AI is coming for them. Is yours on the list? Plus, iPhone texts to ignore, a smart ring that catches cheaters, and words that expose your ChatGPT habit.
😊 Emojis = happier relationships: A study shows that using emojis in texts can make your partner feel more appreciated. Why? Because apparently, it signals you’re paying more attention. But before you get carried away, remember that different generations don’t always interpret them the same way. Gen Z might see a 🙂 or 👍 as sarcastic.
💬 Mark texts as unread: It’s not just for emails. On iPhone, swipe right on a conversation and tap Mark as Unread (it looks like a speech bubble). On Android, press and hold the convo, tap the three-dot menu in the top-right corner, then choose Mark as unread, so you won’t forget to reply later.
🚨 Prime Day scams are coming: Scammers are ramping up fake emails, texts and calls ahead of July 8. Most say there’s a problem with your account or order to trick you into giving up your login or payment info. Don’t click sketchy links.
💻 Israel vs Iran online: The conflict isn’t just happening on the ground. It’s playing out in cyberspace, too. A hacking group linked to Israel apparently hit an Iranian bank, cutting off access to people’s money. Then, fake texts were sent to Israelis, warning of terror attacks on bomb shelters to stir panic. Tense times.
🚦 You have unpaid tolls: No, you don’t. DMVs in NY, FL, CA and elsewhere are warning about scammy texts pretending you owe traffic fines. They threaten to yank your license. Spoiler alert: It’s fake. Don’t click the links, unless you really want scammers to know your SSN.
Thank-you texts are in: Millennials are making a habit of sending warm, heartfelt messages after hanging out with friends. Something like, “Had such a great time, so nice to see you!” Polite? Nope, just easing post-hangout anxiety about whether everyone had a good time.
🤯 No cure for brain rot: If your brain feels fried from endless scrolling, folks are turning to a dumb phone (paywall link). We’re talking only the basics, i.e., phone calls and texts. The trade-off? Anxiety and fear you’re missing out. Basically, you’re screwed either way.
🚨 Life insurance data breach alert: Landmark Admin, which works with life insurance and annuities, got hacked last year with an estimated 800,000 people hit. Yeah, we’re just hearing about it now. Surprise, it was actually over 1.6 million. If you’re one of them, you’ll get a letter. Watch out for sketchy calls, texts or emails to be safe. At this point, getting hacked is just America’s newest rite of passage.
📞 Scammers posing as IRS agents: Just ask Brad, who got a call saying he misfiled his taxes and owed over $800 or else he could face jail time. The scammer knew his address and wife’s name, and Brad ended up giving him access to his bank account. PSA: The IRS never calls or texts. If it’s legit, it comes by mail.
Toll road scam texts: What you need to know
If you received a text about unpaid tolls, you’re not alone. Scammers are sending fake warnings nationwide.
FBI warns about new text scam
Fake parking ticket and toll texts are tricking people into paying. Don’t fall for it. Here’s how to spot the scam.
📜 Unlocking secrets: AI is decoding ancient texts like burnt Roman scrolls and fragile tablets. A model called Ithaca filled in the blanks with 62% accuracy, compared to 25% for human researchers. Time to learn what ancient folks were Babyloning about.
YGTR (You Got That Right!): A Stanford study says abbreviations in texts make you come across as insincere. Sure, you might think you’re being laid-back, but others see it as being lazy. Bonus cringe: People who use abbreviations are less likely to get replies. So, if you’re being ghosted, maybe ditch the “IDK” and try a full sentence, just sayin’.
Share lists easily with friends
Sick of managing who’s bringing what through endless group texts or emails? There’s a simpler way.
🤩 I’m a Barbie girl: For $129, you can have your very own hot pink flip phone that looks just like Barbie’s. Manufacturer HMD (the folks who own Nokia) call it a vacation, as in no social media apps — just calls, texts and a 5MP camera. Accessories include stick-on charms, vintage Barbie stickers and a beaded strap. Preorders open Sept. 23. People want it so badly that they’re lining up in a Barbie queue.
Stop annoying political texts
Cyber crooks are hiding behind legitimate-looking political messages to lead you to dangerous websites. I also get into online job scams, five signs your phone might be tapped, and how to rent a pool for your summer vacation.