Plus, step into an Amazon delivery mystery — a woman’s tale of dozens of packages meant for a stranger. Also, say goodbye to flat social media photos with some great hacks. A heartwarming TikTok story, HBO’s latest app and secrets to making a stellar online dating profile.
TikTok’s Dark Side: Why it’s more than just a fun app & you need to remove it
The U.S. is inching closer and closer to a nationwide ban on TikTok. Those short, shareable videos make it the largest social app out there. Get this: 150 million Americans use TikTok, including about two-thirds of teens.
What’s the big deal? TikTok is a national security threat. The Chinese-owned social media platform’s parent company ByteDance is based in Beijing and is required by Chinese law to give the government access to collected data. (By the way, if you’d like to stay updated on tech topics the easy way, join over 400,000 people who get my free daily newsletter and sign up here.)
TikTok collects data that includes search and browsing history, facial ID, voice prints, texts, location, and photos. Here’s a wrinkle: You can watch the videos without creating an account. Is that safe to do? The answer below will shock you.
Talk to your kids
It’s not up for debate: TikTok gathers lots of user data. It also is built from the ground up to be addictive, making it so easy to share quick videos catered to the interests of each user.
Then there are the viral “challenges” that can lead to injury or death — ever heard of the choking or blackout challenge? It’s terrifying.
All these things are dangerous enough, and young people are especially vulnerable. As a parent, you can have controls to restrict your kids from visiting certain websites or downloading certain apps. That’s all well and good, but it’s not enough.
The Wall Street Journal reports that children with TikTok accounts are sending screen recordings of videos to their friends who can’t access the app themselves. Kids are filling their phones with these video clips to the point where they can’t even update them.
Are you safe simply watching the videos?
You don’t need a TikTok account to watch the content. People with accounts can simply send you links. You still share some information with TikTok, such as in your browser, when you watch it elsewhere.
According to Caitlin Fennessy, vice president and chief knowledge officer at the International Association of Privacy Professionals, your browser type, phone information, and IP address are up for grabs.
TikTok videos are popular enough to be found on virtually every social media and video hosting platform, including Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube. This is where it gets tricky.
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Plus, I tell you all about the Google Bard release and why it’s dull on purpose. New ATM crime to watch out for, water bill money-saving tips and save your important texts. Tired of overly detailed recipe websites? I have a hack for you.
June 3rd, 2023
In this week’s show, I have the scoop on the TikTok CEO being grilled by the US Congress. But that’s not all – UFO sightings are on the rise, and I reveal why it might just be Starlink’s fault. Plus, the FCC has finally taken action against pesky scam texts, the top 10 jobs most at risk from AI, and Audi’s team of car sniffers. I also warn you about a new ATM crime involving cardboard and glue. That and much more, plus all your calls and questions.
Surgeon General's social media warning, Roku's hidden menu & Amazon palm scanner
Plus, step into an Amazon delivery mystery — a woman’s tale of dozens of packages meant for a stranger. Also, say goodbye to flat social media photos with some great hacks. A heartwarming TikTok story, HBO’s latest app and secrets to making a stellar online dating profile.
May 6th, 2023
In this week’s show, is the new Amazon Clinic safe? I expose why it’s a privacy no-go. Also, I talk to Consumer Reports Auto Reporter Keith Barry about predatory car subscriptions and a mom fighting against dangerous TikTok challenges. Google’s new update kills the password, USPS job scams and a new online tool to see if your car’s tracking you. That and much more, plus all your calls and questions.
Another example of why TikTok is a danger to America
Do you have a dangerous spy tool for China on your phone? I give you the details, in 60 seconds.
China's app threat beyond TikTok, AI's plan to take 300 mill jobs & the device most likely to hurt you
Plus, I talk to a man who needs a safe space to share photos of his lost loved ones. Also, a 500 thousand vehicle recall for Hyundai and Kia – I reveal why you should park your car on the street for now. Worried about your job post the big AI boom? There’s some exciting news about a new high-paying job that’s emerging. And, I share some pro tips to protect your website with free online tests.
Woman finds love with chatbot husband, tech leaders call for AI pause & secrets online advertisers don't want you to know
Plus, I’ve got the inside scoop on Chinese-tied apps that should be on your security radar (move over TikTok!). And if you’re curious about the afterlife, I’ve got news for you – you can now experience a near-death encounter in VR. Plus, I’ll share some top tips for protecting your privacy by stopping those pesky devices from listening in on your every word.
YouTube car-crashing duo arrested, Amazon Sidewalk network's security risks & the top 3 reasons why your WiFi sucks
Plus, Amazon’s latest feature that alerts you about frequently returned items. I show you how your smartphone can be a lifesaver. Also, TikTok’s strange warning about Fruit Roll-Ups (hint: it’s about plastic). Matt explores the weirdest and best subreddits. Allie shares some effortless ways to make money from the comfort of your couch – no hair brushing required.
Download your TikTok videos before the ban
It’s a fact: TikTok’s impact is undeniable. Here’s how to download your TikTok videos before it’s too late, in 60 seconds.
March 25th, 2023
In this week’s show, I have the scoop on the TikTok CEO being grilled by the US Congress. But that’s not all – UFO sightings are on the rise, and I reveal why it might just be Starlink’s fault. Plus, the FCC has finally taken action against pesky scam texts, the top 10 jobs most at risk from AI, and Audi’s team of car sniffers. I also warn you about a new ATM crime involving cardboard and glue. That and much more, plus all your calls and questions.
Why yesterday's TikTok hearing was a disservice to all Americans
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With TikTok, Biden & company misses the big picture
The US is inching closer to banning TikTok. But does that stop China from listening in? I have the scoop, in 60 seconds.
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Show off your pantry on TikTok? One Loyola professor says that’s racist. Get the details in this 60-second podcast.
America's plan to ban TikTok, Ring Doorbell's nasty legal loophole & save $ on your internet bill
Plus, AI chatbots are here to take over the workforce. Here’s my take on why it’s not such a great idea. Why spend taxpayer dollars on cable when there’s Starlink satellites already here? I also have the reason why the world still uses floppy disks, how to cool down your laptop when it overheats (pro tip: not in the freezer), the clever way to see who gets your email and surveys that can make you a ton of cash.
TikTok's chilling threat to America
TikTok’s only option to remain in the US? Split from China or risk a ban. I have the details in this one-minute podcast.
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Plus, how many hours does Elon Musk work a week? Spoiler – it’s a lot. Allie’s got a trick to stop doom scrolling. And a shocking grandparent scam spreading. Plus, stick around for a moon TikTok trend and a heartwarming listener story about an Emu named Onion, written by ChatGPT.