Privacy

Data detox: How to wipe your info in 2026

While you’re busy filling your cart, retailers are filling their databases with your personal data.

The loyalty trap: That free coffee cost you everything

Let me tell you something that’ll make you look at your “loyalty perks” apps and programs a lot differently.  You think you’re getting a deal along with points, rewards, a freebie here and there. But what you’re really signing up for is a machine that’s collecting, analyzing and monetizing you. I studied a new report […]

California’s new opt‑out a win (if you live there)

Kim K. in Calabasas, CA, asked if California’s new browser privacy law means she no longer needs Incogni, a sponsor of my national radio show. Great question. First, yes, I did check to see if that “K” stood for Kardashian. No response … yet. 😏 👨🏻‍⚖️ California’s new AB 566 law It forces browsers to […]

The privacy threat no one blocks

You mention Antarctica once. Just a throwaway joke near your phone, “Wouldn’t it be cool to go freeze my face off?” Suddenly, your phone, laptop, smart TV, smart speaker and even your fridge are pitching you parkas like it’s QVC Arctic Edition. 🥶 Chances are, you were hit by ultrasonic cross-device tracking. This high-frequency sound […]

Guess who’s spying from your bookshelf

With more than 500 million Alexa-enabled devices sold worldwide, odds are you’ve got one sitting on your counter or desk, quietly glowing, always listening. Ever mutter something like, “I need new jeans,” and suddenly your phone’s serving up Levi’s ads? Creepy coincidence or hot mic in action? Alexa is always in listening mode, waiting for […]

5 steps to take control of your data

Every day, it feels like there’s another company saying, “Oops, we lost your info.” Feel helpless? Don’t. I’ve got some smart steps that help lock things down and keep creeps from using your info against you. Let’s jump in. 🔒 Change your username and passwords If hackers get one of your passwords, they’ll try it […]

Take control of your data

Ever Googled yourself and thought, “What the heck is that doing online?” Old addresses, phone numbers and even the car you drive are all out there. Worse, it’s probably on some sketchy people search site or buried in a mountain of search results. I’ve been there too. After I went on a mission to wipe […]

Your smart thermostat is basically a nosy roommate

Charles in San Antonio asked, “Kim, I have one of those smart thermostats. It must collect a lot of my data. Where does it all go?” Buckle up, Charles, because your thermostat might know more about you than your best friend, your doctor or your cat. If you’ve got a Nest, Ecobee or any of […]

Tech how-to: Delete your DNA data

You can freeze your credit. Change your password. Replace a stolen phone. But there’s one thing you can’t ever change: your DNA.

Why you need a second phone number

I have a second number on my phone. You should, too. Your main number? Keep that locked down for the important stuff — your bank, doctor’s office and family. But when you’re ordering takeout, signing up for a one-time deal or making an online purchase, why give out your real number?  That’s where a second […]

Flying or cruising? They’re watching you.

You might not realize it, but airlines and cruise lines collect a lot of data, from your seat choice to the websites you browse on their Wi-Fi.

Get everything Amazon collects and tracks about you

I was doing some research about Amazon and ran across a golden nugget I couldn’t wait to share with you. We all know Amazon tracks everything including what you browse, buy, watch and even ask Alexa. But here’s the surprise: You can download all of it. I’ll show you how. So, what kind of info […]

Delete these snoopy Chrome browser extensions

Browser extensions can collect as much or more as snoopy phone apps. Here are a few that are collecting way too much info.

Retailers, data brokers and ads, oh my!

Why does it seem like you get ads for what you just talked about? Here’s how this sneaky tracking really works.

Tech how-to: Check your phone for signs someone is watching

Worried someone is watching what you do? Check these settings on your phone.

Fitness apps are selling your privacy – how to protect your data

Have any fitness apps on your phone? Here’s just how much data these apps collect and how it’s sold off.

How to run a 5-minute privacy check on your phone

You don’t want anyone snooping on your phone. Do this quick privacy audit to keep out prying eyes.

10 privacy-friendly Big Tech alternatives

How many services and apps do you use that belong to the Big Tech behemoths? Here are 10 alternatives that put your privacy first.

Why I used Incogni to wipe my info off the internet

Data brokers and people-search sites eat up private data and sell it to anyone willing to pay. Here’s how to remove yours.

The truth behind smart driving programs and what they track

I’ll break down exactly what insurers collect — and how they use that data.