If something feels off, then it probably is. These people are working hard to get your valuables, and I’ll warn you what to watch for.
Must-do tech cleanups for your inbox, network and gadgets
The best way to embark on a new year is to start fresh. After all, you can’t make a new beginning if you’re tied to the past. Tech issues can hold you back when you’re trying to leap forward.
Cleaning up your tech is one of the best ways to obtain a clean slate. By tidying up your tech, you can ensure they’re working in tip-top shape. Tap or click here for five ways to quickly clean up digital junk.
We aren’t just talking about physical tricks, like wiping your TV with a damp cloth or using a Q-tip to clear your phone’s ports. Digging through your cache and running a few programs can do you good. Here are a few tips from our Kim Komando Today podcast you can follow to make your devices as good as new.
1. Inventory your valuables
If you want to do a thorough cleanup job, you can leave no stone unturned. That’s why you should create an inventory. This way, you won’t overlook any gadget needing some TLC.
You don’t have to whip out the clipboard, though. Just head to Encircle, a home inventory app that lets you catalog all your valuables in a snap.
To use it, take pictures of the outside of your home and every room. Don’t forget to take photos of your oven, refrigerator, as well as other major appliances and all your tech gadgets.
Now you don’t have to worry about overlooking your valued items. If you finish one task, return to Encircle and see what you have to clean up next. It’s an excellent way to hold yourself accountable through the long cleanup process.
2. Refresh your home network
Since your home network is the hub of all essential gadgets, take some time to make sure it’s doing well. First, make sure the password is unique and complex. A simple password makes it easy for squatters to steal the data you pay good money for.
Second, enabling two-factor authentication makes it even harder for hackers to break into your home network. Third, ensure your router’s firmware is up to date. That’s pretty easy — just follow these steps:
- Head to your router admin page: You’ll need your router’s IP address as well as your admin password, which you can find in your router’s user guide. If you don’t have them, there are a few sites that can help you. Tap or click here for a list of default passwords for 548 router brands.
- Find a section called Advanced or Management: This is where you’ll find firmware updates. Download any updates that are available. Now your system is up to date.
5 uses for security cameras you never thought of before now
Think about all of the valuable possessions inside your home. Jewelry, big-screen televisions, maybe some high-priced artwork, to name a few things.
With treasured items like these, it’s no wonder thieves are always trying to break in and rip us off. They don’t even always wait for you to be out of town on vacation. Sometimes they have the nerve to sneak inside while we’re asleep at night.
Safety first
Your valuables, guns and money need to be locked up. Options? Yup, I’ve got ‘em.
- Amazon Basics’ steel safes use an electronic keypad. They’re highly rated and a good deal. The big one (1.8 cubic feet) is under $90 right now. A small option is $50.
- This looks like a normal frame on your wall but slides open to hide whatever you want. Just be aware it doesn’t lock.
- I haven’t tried it, but there are great reviews on this biometric gun safe (on sale for $56). You can use your fingerprint, PIN or a key to open it.
- This is a great option for important docs (26% off). It’s fire-rated for 30 minutes and holds 20 or more hanging folders.
- For fun, hide your stuff in one of these: A can (I like the ravioli and peaches), a fake wall outlet or a dictionary with a lock.
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5 genius tech hacks to do before it’s February
It’s a new year, and we’re busy setting goals and making resolutions. One of mine is to spend at least an hour outside every day.
Of course, I still have work to do, and much of that happens via email. I started 2022 by cleaning up my inbox. Tap or click for the steps I take every year to clear out old emails and start fresh.
Check the attic! 8 old tech items worth a lot of money
True collectors are fascinating people; they’re smart and persistent. As time goes on, everyday objects fall out of fashion and then, years later, clever collectors swoop in. Example: A one-cent postage stamp from British Guiana worth about $10 million.
Safety first
I bet you or someone you know has a scary travel story. These gadgets are no-brainers to bring on your next trip to protect yourself and your stuff.
- Major security flaws have compromised a huge portion of keycard hotel locks. Easy fix: This doorstop with a built-in alarm (17% off).
- Traveling with valuables? Bring your own safe. Hotel rooms don’t always have one. This little portable option is under $24.
- Whether you’re traveling abroad or just going out at night, take a personal alarm. This sleek option is 20% off and goes right on your keychain.
- Only one in four U.S. homes has a carbon monoxide detector. Bet your Airbnb doesn’t. This one’s 33% off!
- Two words: Fanny pack. Wear it across your chest for extra street cred (I do!). This one’s inexpensive and looks great.
We may receive a commission when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.
Make a home inventory the easy way
Every homeowner dreads coming home to the scene of a burglary. Whether you’ve gone on a two-week vacation or a 15-minute errand, it could happen to anyone.
Your first instinct after calling the police may be to lock your house down like Fort Knox for the rest of your life, but what are you going to do about what was stolen?