Stump the Geeks
Lessons from a departing tech columnist
After a year-and-a-half of challenging questions from readers and expert answers from my go-to geek specialists, a columnist experienced a second slow-motion tech epiphany. With every bit of advice, I was able to spot my own bad habits and make changes.
Stump the Geeks
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STUMP THE GEEKS
Latest online scam is alarming computer experts
The scam combines elements of scareware, social engineering and outright fraud. The end result is that users are tricked into expensive service contracts after being told over the phone that their computers are on the verge of a meltdown.
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STUMP THE GEEKS
Stump the Geeks: No foolproof solution for protecting your online passwords
Managing true password complexity is tough. As many writers and technologists have pointed out, the username-password system is broken. It will probably be a while before something takes its place completely, but two-factor authentication can do wonders in the meantime.
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STUMP THE GEEKS
Tips for tracking down deleted Gmail messages
If you’re having trouble locating deleted messages via search, it’s important to note that by default, messages filed as trash don’t show up in your search results.
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STUMP THE GEEKS
Options for grieving Google Reader and iGoogle users
If you’re looking to purge your home page of pop culture and other less-than-desirable content, you’ve basically got two related options: filtering or customization.
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STUMP THE GEEKS
Choosing a password manager is a matter of trust
One important thing to remember about password storage solutions is that safety, as with all things, is relative. Looking for tools with long track records is often a safe bet. Finding tools with large user bases and positive reviews from IT experts can also be helpful.
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STUMP THE GEEKS
Careful with your backup drive's partitions
Many PCs by Dell and other manufacturers have a preinstalled backup partition essentially a walled-off portion of the hard drive. It can sometimes be hidden by default, but it’s solitary purpose is to store a copy of all the original software installed on the computer when it shipped...
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STUMP THE GEEKS
Apps to consider when crafting a mobile security strategy
Recommending a security solution for your portable gadget is a little more difficult than for your desktop. System updates are often out of users’ hands and antivirus software is only available through centralized app markets.
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STUMP THE GEEKS
What to know before you disable Java on your computer
According to the Jan. 14 update from Homeland Security's Computer Emergency Readiness Team, Java 7 through update 10 is the version at risk. CERT recommends updating to Update 11, but is still telling the public to consider disabling Java in their browsers because "new Java vulnerabilities are likely...
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STUMP THE GEEKS
Consumers wise to pay attention to recent Java warning
Vulnerability notices -- even from the Department of Homeland Security -- aren't exactly a rarity in the IT world. But there are a few reasons why even casual users should pay attention to the recent one issued by the Department of Homeland Security about Java.
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STUMP THE GEEKS
New year is ideal time to protect your digital info
The new year is an ideal time to protect your electronic information because it's a goal you can (mostly) accomplish in one sitting. And unlike efforts to stick to a new gym schedule, there are plenty of tools that can do the work for you.



