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Latest in Tech News

April, 2023

FBI warns Americans against 'juice jacking'

'Charging-only' cables might save the day

March, 2023

How safe are you when you use public Wi-Fi?

Things are better than they used to be but vigilance is the watchword

Hackers have used ChatGPT brand to take over Facebook accounts

Users were offered a fake Chrome extension that was a pathway for malicious content

January, 2023

How much will AI impact life in 2023?

‘A lot,' say the experts we consulted and not all of it will be good

Are we ready for the brave new world of AI? Experts have their doubts

The emerging technology could be a gold mine for criminals

We asked ChatGPT for some consumer advice. We got it in 10 seconds

In the last month, artificial intelligence took a big leap forward

December, 2022

Some Epson inkjet printers are designed to shut down after a certain number of prints

Consumers have to either pay for a repair or buy a new printer

How does free, unlimited electricity sound?

A recent nuclear fusion breakthrough could be a game-changer

If you use Virtual Try On software your face and body images may end up in a database

Ours did

November, 2022

Your smart TV giving you fits? You might be able to fix things with a new, inexpensive streaming device.

Streaming expert offers suggestions and how to get around any issues

Consumers still complain that some companies make it hard to cancel a service

These companies may face more scrutiny from federal and state regulators

If you use a prayer app someone else could be listening in, report finds

If you want a prayer app, one security expert says you need to be careful

October, 2022

Is Google capturing your biometric data in violation of the law?

The state of Texas claims it is and has filed a lawsuit to stop it

“Cancel Sunday Ticket” searches by NFL fans are up 2,856%

DirecTV offers refunds to disgruntled customers, but is it too little too late?

September, 2022

TikTok is the latest social media platform to be accused of spreading misinformation

It can sometimes be difficult to identify accurate information from inaccurate information on social media

August, 2022

Biden signs CHIPS bill into law to help lower U.S. dependence on foreign semiconductor production

The bill could also produce tens of thousands of 'good-paying' jobs

July, 2022

Congress passes bill to fix America’s wide-ranging computer chip issues

President Biden says we’ll never have to rely on foreign chip production again

Mining cryptocurrency uses a 'disturbing' amount of energy, lawmakers say

The issue can impact consumers’ utility bills

Amazon Prime Video and Netflix to set new changes in motion

Consumers may soon be charged for password-sharing

June, 2022

The hot summer heat plays havoc not only with people, but smartphones, too

Is there an app for that? Of course there is.

Senators look to create universal charging cord standards to reduce electronic waste

The inspiration came from a recent action by the European Union

Spending a moderate amount of time online may help teens' mental health, study finds

Being on social media is important for teens to feel connected, but they also need to find the right balance

May, 2022

Consumers could do better when it comes to recycling electronic devices, study suggests

Most consumers don’t recycle their devices when they replace them

April, 2022

Reducing smartphone screen time may improve well-being, study finds

Consumers don’t need to totally ditch their phones, but cutting back can be beneficial

March, 2022

HBO Max and Discovery Plus to combine into one streaming platform

The big question is how much the service will cost and how much consumers are willing to pay

Samsung phone owners experience slowdown of more than 10,000 apps

The company says it’s on the case, but it didn’t say when a fix will be issued

February, 2022

Apple gets serious about protecting AirTag users from unwanted tracking

New privacy warnings and advancements in unwanted tracking alert logic are in the works

Telecoms ask FCC for $5.6 billion to replace ZTE and Huawei equipment

Officials say consumers who have phones from those brands should consider replacing them

January, 2022

Commerce Department says the chip shortage isn’t going away, but it’s proactively looking for answers

Both Congress and industry are chipping in to help, too

AT&T launches new high-speed internet service

It’s not cheap, and there are little details consumers need to consider before signing up

LG introduces new line of OLED TVs at CES 2022

The new devices are larger than the current line-up

December, 2021

Amazon’s Alexa told a child to touch a live wire with a coin

Amazon said the instruction, which was picked up from TikTok, has been removed

Having good posture while using smartphones may reduce consumers' pain, study finds

Experts say consumers of all ages are at risk of developing chronic pain from excessive device use

Earthlink rolls out wireless internet service

The company says it could help consumers in underserved areas

November, 2021

Instagram offers content creators up to $35,000 to post videos to Reels

The platform is looking to put up a fight against TikTok

Comcast’s Xfinity service suffered a major outage on Tuesday

The company said it resolved the network issue within two hours

Roblox comes back online after a three-day outage

The company said the gaming platform will compensate developers for lost income

October, 2021

Facebook officially changes corporate name to ‘Meta’

Critics of the company claim its an attempt to change the subject

FCC bans China Telecom from operating in the U.S.

The agency will help consumers find new telecom options if they need assistance

Intel CEO predicts computer chip shortage will drag on

That could affect consumers shopping for cars and computers

Facebook oversight board rebukes company for withholding information about how it moderates VIP users

The board says the company has to do more when it comes to fairness, objectivity, and transparency

Former Spectrum customer claims he got a billing threat

The company says it was simply an ‘opportunity to reconnect’

Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp went dark for six hours on Monday

Engineers blamed a configuration error

September, 2021

Roku announces an improved Live TV offering

With growth comes love and concern that the company may need to pay better attention to customer service

Buying the new iPhone 13? A new survey says picking the wrong model could cost you a bunch of money

Protecting your investment might cost extra, but it could pay off if the unthinkable happens

Study reveals people use their smartphones much more than they think

Interestingly enough, there’s an app for cutting back on screen time

Apple's new iPhone is here. Is it worth buying?

The line between iPhones and Pixel phones continues to get narrower

Cybersecurity researchers find major flaw on Apple devices

The company has released a patch and asks users to update their devices ASAP

The new iPhone is scheduled to roll out this week

If you’re spending that much on a phone, should you spend extra for extended warranty coverage?

Amazon to start production on its first Amazon-built TV

Alexa will power the user’s integration with the TV, hoping to make watching less complicated

August, 2021

Microsoft to release new Windows 11 operating system on October 5

The rollout will represent the first major Windows update in six years

Google Fiber rated fastest internet service in new study

But the service is available in limited markets

J.D. Power rates the best companies for wireless customer satisfaction

A cable company has made the top tier in the annual survey for the first time

Lawmakers draft bill aimed at addressing Google and Apple app market dominance

The legislation may take time to become a law, but regulators around the world are stepping up the pressure

T-Mobile to shut down Sprint LTE network by end of June 2022

Since acquiring Sprint, the company has been busy shifting customers to the latest technologies

Elon Musk says Starlink internet service now has 90,000 users in 12 countries

One thing that the company has yet to corner is a competitive, consumer-friendly rate

July, 2021

Google bans ‘sugar dating’ apps from Play Store

The change is part of an update to its existing policy regarding sexual content

Twitter tests new feature that allows users to buy brand products

The ‘Shop Module’ pilot aims to test the potential for shopping on the platform

Instagram announces new safety features for teens

The app is making teens’ accounts private by default and limiting contact from ‘suspicious’ strangers

Gaming to beat feelings of boredom may be harmful to your health, study finds

Experts say too much time playing games can create addictive behaviors

Consumers are less satisfied with their internet connection in 2021

Fiber customers are the happiest of the bunch

Instagram now allows users to further limit ‘sensitive’ content in the app

Users can choose how much sensitive content they want to allow on their Explore page

AT&T and DISH sign $5 billion deal to create a wireless network

Getting services to rural America is one of the goals of the pact

President Biden to direct FTC to create ‘right to repair’ regulations

Electronics manufacturers are high on the list

Pentagon cancels $10 billion JEDI cloud contract

Microsoft said its previous legal dispute with Amazon illustrated the need for policy change

Pinterest bans ads related to weight loss on its platform

The company worked with the National Eating Disorders Association to develop its new policy

Facebook, Google, TikTok, and Twitter to introduce new settings to keep women safe online

The tech giants have vowed to give women more control over who can interact with them

June, 2021

Microsoft announces Windows 11 with new features and design updates

The operating system features a myriad of changes

Google delays timeline for blocking third-party cookies

The search giant said it needs more time to come up with a viable alternative to cookies

Twitter may soon launch new ‘Super Follows’ service

Paying users could get access to exclusive tweets and bonus content from highly followed users

Facebook expected to end special treatment for politicians

The Oversight Board has argued that the ‘same rules should apply to all users’

Microsoft seemingly drops hints that Windows 11 is on the way

The company has an event planned for June 24

May, 2021

Facebook, Instagram users now have option to hide like counts

The option is intended to ‘depressurize’ the user experience

Microsoft to drop support for Internet Explorer next summer

The company wants users to transition to its faster and more secure browser, Microsoft Edge

Zoom announces online platform ‘Zoom Events’ for hosting events

Users will be able to sell tickets, track attendance, and more

Twitter said to be working on a new $2.99/month subscription

A ‘Twitter Blue’ subscription may give users access to extra features in exchange for a small monthly fee

State attorneys general urge Facebook not to create an Instagram for kids

The officials say the app poses risks to kids and shouldn’t be developed

Verizon sells off Yahoo and AOL to focus on its wireless business

The company is selling off its media unit to private equity firm Apollo Global Management

Florida’s efforts to protect consumer data fail

Gov. Ron DeSantis’ effort to give ownership of mined data back to consumers has encountered a roadblock

April, 2021

FCC sets new date for phone companies to adhere to robocall mitigation efforts

A review of the database shows that only one telecom has fulfilled the requirements so far

Google misled consumers about location data settings, Australian court says

The court said its ruling ‘sends a strong message’ to big tech companies

Advocacy group urges Facebook to abandon idea of Instagram for children under 13

Critics say the ‘image-obsessed’ app isn’t appropriate for a demographic going through rapid developmental changes

PC shipments continue to grow by leaps and bounds

Chromebooks are becoming a consumer favorite

Apple and Google headed to Capitol Hill for a hearing over app store antitrust practices

App developers are being offered a better commission deal in some cases, but it comes with limits

T-Mobile pushes free 5G phones and unlimited data plan upgrades in latest campaign

New and existing customers can trade in any phone and get a Galaxy A32 5G smartphone

Americans increased broadband use by 30 percent during the pandemic

An industry report shows that the web performed well under unprecedented demand

March, 2021

Google extends free ‘unlimited’ version of Google Meet until June

The move will help consumers meet virtually with family and friends and work from home a little bit longer

Facebook agrees to pay News Corp Australia to show news in the country

The decision follows a standoff between regulators and the platform over compensating news organizations

Smartphone addiction affects nearly 40 percent of college students

Researchers say it can be detrimental to sleep and cause mental health problems

Twitter establishes new ‘strike’ system for dealing with vaccine misinformation

Misleading tweets will be amended with links to information that the company deems more credible

February, 2021

FCC announces discounted internet service program for low-income households during pandemic

Discounts on computers and tablets are also available

Australia passes law requiring Facebook and tech companies to pay news publishers

The tech industry will have time to strike deals with media conglomerates

Loneliness could make teens more susceptible to internet addiction

Teens are spending more time alone at home during the COVID-19 pandemic

Facebook says it will invest $1 billion in news industry following Australian standoff

The company says its debate with the Australian government ‘misunderstands’ its relationship with news publishers

T-Mobile to offer a real unlimited plan with 5G and no speed throttling

There are lots of add-ons for consumers upgrading or switching plans, ranging from free Netflix to free in-flight service

Starlink internet speeds ‘will double’ this year, Elon Musk says

The SpaceX CEO says the network will also cover ‘most’ of the world by 2022

Facebook blocks Australian users from viewing news content

The social media giant is pushing back against a proposed law that would require it to pay to surface news links

LastPass announces changes to its free tier

Several new restrictions will go into effect next month

SpaceX launches 60 more Starlink satellites

More than 10,000 customers have started getting internet coverage through the service

Microsoft supports media rules that would share profits with news organizations

The concept was proposed by Australia and opposed by Google

TikTok sale to U.S. firm on hold ‘indefinitely’

The Biden administration is still reviewing TikTok’s legal situation

Huawei asks courts to overturn FCC’s national security threat designation

The Trump administration may have been the first to put Huawei in its crosshairs, but the new Biden administration is keeping the heat on

How the computer chip shortage could affect consumers

Car production could fall and prices could rise if it doesn’t end soon

Google to drop Chrome support on certain old PCs

Chrome will no longer attempt to install on devices that don’t meet new minimum CPU requirements

TikTok is reportedly planning an online shopping channel

The move is viewed as a challenge to Facebook

SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet service hits the 10,000 user mark

The company has filed a petition to become an official Eligible Telecommunications Carrier

Facebook to urge users to opt into tracking for ‘better ads experience’

The company is pushing back against Apple’s decision to let users opt out of tracking

January, 2021

Verizon suffers a major internet outage in the Northeast

The outage knocked some consumers and businesses offline for several hours

SpaceX launches 143 spacecraft as a new era space race continues

Consumers are likely to benefit from the new rush to space, particularly in communications services

TikTok announces privacy changes to keep young users safe

The social media platform says it’s serious about implementing ‘age-appropriate privacy settings and controls’

CES 2021 kicks off on screens around the world

Participating automakers are struggling with a computer chip shortage

Wi-Fi industry begins certifying Wi-Fi 6E devices

The newly opened band represents the biggest upgrade to Wi-Fi in decades

Microsoft said to be planning ‘sweeping visual rejuvenation’ of Windows

The company wants to modernize its operating system

Venmo launches new ‘Cash a Check’ feature

Fees associated with the feature will be waived for stimulus funds

December, 2020

FAA issues rules to expand the use of drones

The aerial vehicles may be flown over people and at night

Facebook expands access to ‘Facebook Protect’ security monitoring tool

The program offers vulnerable users a way to further secure their accounts

Zoom to continue unlimited free calls through the holiday season

The 40-minute time limit will be lifted through several holiday occasions

EU unveils draft policies that would curb power of Big Tech firms

Two pieces of legislation would require technology firms to comply with a new set of rules

FTC and 47 states launch antitrust suit against Facebook

Facebook brands the complaint as ‘revisionist history’

Google launches feature with COVID-19 vaccine information

The company is aiming to address ‘misperceptions and hesitance’ about vaccines

SpaceX wins nearly $900 million in federal aid to boost internet access

The FCC is aiming to serve rural areas with Starlink internet service

TikTok sale deadline passes without final deal

Sources say negotiations are likely to continue

FCC Chairman Ajit Pai to resign in January

His departure could lead to the restoration of net neutrality rules

November, 2020

Microsoft Teams no longer supported by Internet Explorer 11

The company wants users to use Microsoft Edge instead

Comcast to impose data cap for non-unlimited customers

The policy change will go into effect next year

FCC votes to open up additional Wi-Fi spectrum for consumers

Drivers will also enjoy an increase in road safety, traffic efficiency, and energy savings thanks to the additional space

Twitter announces new ‘Fleets’ feature

The tool lets users share ‘momentary thoughts’ that disappear after 24 hours

Tech addiction in kids isn't as big a problem as previously thought, researchers say

Study findings suggest that parents shouldn’t worry too much about long-term technology addiction

Zoom lifts 40-minute time limit for Thanksgiving video calls

A recent FTC settlement should lead to better security practices

Commerce Department says TikTok can continue to operate in the U.S.

The company that owns the app may still need to sell U.S. assets

TikTok says negotiations with Trump administration are at a standstill

The short-form video app says it hasn’t heard from regulators in weeks

How consumers use social media affects their well-being, study finds

Endless scrolling and false comparisons can lead to negative feelings

October, 2020

Tech CEOs face tough questions from the Senate about free speech

Both Republicans and Democrats peppered the executives with complaints

Apple reportedly building an alternative to Google’s search engine

The company’s efforts are more or less riding on the Justice Department’s antitrust lawsuit against Google

Kids with popular YouTube channels are promoting unhealthy foods, study finds

Experts say the advertising is often subtle, but it has far-reaching effects among kids

Pakistan lifts its ban on TikTok

TikTok team members have promised to work harder at moderating content in the country

EU to investigate Instagram over children’s privacy concerns

A data scientist claims the platform leaked the contact information of minors

Facebook expands policy banning anti-vaccine ads

‘We don’t want these ads on our platform,’ the company said

Facebook bans Holocaust denial content from its platform

The company says the update to its hate speech policy is meant to fight anti-Semitism

Pakistan bans TikTok over ‘immoral and indecent’ content

The app is still facing regulatory uncertainty in the U.S.

Democrats unveil blueprint for breaking up Big Tech

A staff report recommends breaking up firms and making mergers more difficult

Facebook has reportedly readied argument against splitting up Instagram and WhatsApp

The company plans to claim that a potential breakup would hurt app users

Senate committee subpoenas executives of major tech companies

Lawmakers want tech CEOs to testify about their protections from liability

September, 2020

Judge blocks U.S. from banning TikTok downloads

The 12th-hour ruling provides more time to approve a sale

TikTok files for preliminary injunction to avoid U.S. ban

The China-owned app argues that it’s made ‘extraordinary efforts’ to allay national security concerns

Social media platforms reach new agreement with advertisers

A new deal aims to improve the way Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube keep out harmful content

YouTube turns to AI assistance to place age restrictions on videos

The platform has struggled to flag all content that may not be safe for children

Facebook gives more photo rights to content creators on its social media platforms

Users who love to copy and paste photos to their Facebook or Instagram pages might get their hand slapped

Restrictions against TikTok and WeChat to begin this Sunday in U.S.

Regulators say the move is important to protecting national security

Comcast announces plan to bring free internet to community centers

The program is intended to ensure that low-income students have internet access

Trump raises concerns over latest TikTok deal

Oracle may have struck a deal on paper, but the TikTok dating game is far from over

Facebook launches climate change information hub

The company is aiming to combat misinformation about the topic

Microsoft loses in its bid to purchase TikTok

Oracle will reportedly buy TikTok’s U.S. operations instead

Facebook to reportedly pay users to deactivate their accounts leading up to the 2020 election

Users will be chosen by Facebook to mirror the voter base as accurately as possible

Fear of being away from your phone could be linked to obsessive compulsion, study suggests

Researchers say that many consumers experience higher levels of stress when away from their phones

August, 2020

Walmart joins Microsoft in bid to buy TikTok

The deal could be worth up to $30 billion

Trump administration invests $1 billion in AI research and quantum computing

The hope is that training more Americans for tech jobs will help the U.S. regain the global tech crown

Facebook’s CEO reportedly stoked the government’s fears about TikTok

The Wall Street Journal reports that Mark Zuckerberg began warning officials last fall

Bluetooth interest group working to include wearables in contact tracing efforts

The group says certain population groups are currently excluded from exposure notification systems

TikTok launches new information center to counter criticism and accusations

The company swears that U.S. users’ data is not being sent to China

Commerce Department imposes more restrictions on Huawei

Government officials say the Chinese telecom giant was using evasive measures to circumvent its original blacklisting

July, 2020

Google’s Android 10 update enhances and simplifies privacy settings

It’s worth a few minutes to find out which apps have permission to track every little detail

June, 2020

Senate bill would update how liable online companies are for content on their platforms

If approved, the PACT Act would limit online companies’ liability protections

The advertising boycott on Facebook picks up steam

Holding back ad dollars may not be enough to shake Facebook, but the public shaming might

Mac users report serious graphical glitches on Google Chrome

Apple and Google are working on a fix

New text-blocking app protects against COVID-19 scams

The app was developed by TelTech Systems, which made the companion RoboKiller app

Nearly a third of streaming subscribers added a new service during the pandemic, new poll shows

Sharing can be both a savings and a loss depending on how consumers play out their options

April, 2020

Zoom to roll out security update this weekend

Zoom 5.0 will include fixes for users’ privacy concerns

T-Mobile and Sprint receive final merger approval from California regulators

The massive merger has been cleared to move forward with conditions

February, 2020

The merger between T-Mobile and Sprint is finally approved

The new company promises lots for consumers in the way of better service and lower prices

January, 2020

Tech companies tackle safety issues with new devices

Safety for babies, bike riders, and curious kids are all on display at CES 2020

Can tech simplify a person’s life? In our evolving digital world, anything is possible

Trackers, buttons, trays, and something to let Fido come and go as he pleases are all coming to market

As people age, new tech is there to greet them and make their life easier

Devices and technologies for therapy and hearing loss are making at splash at CES 2020

Robots are stealing the show at CES 2020

But some of them might be more practical than others

December, 2019

Consumer groups push FTC for wide-ranging probe of ‘Big Tech’

Groups want to know how companies target children and use their data

October, 2019

Blockchain could vastly improve how goods move through customs at the border

Researchers say the technology can provide tighter security when it comes to processing international goods

September, 2019

Elizabeth Warren wants to reinstate the Office of Technology Assessment

She argues that corporate lobbyists currently have too much influence on Congressional decision-making

Microsoft may go back to old update system to alleviate Microsoft 10 issues

Users may soon be able to choose to install optional updates

August, 2019

Verizon activates free spam filtering for select Android phones

The move comes a month after AT&T launched automatic robocall blocking for its customers

Appeals court rules 5G cell sites can’t skip environmental and historical review

The FCC sought to make exceptions to speed deployment of faster wireless service

The future of product recalls: AI and Amazon

A new technological approach could benefit consumers

July, 2019

Consumers and tech addiction -- gaming addiction continues to grow

An expert explains the maze of gaming addiction and details the steps concerned family and friends can take

Microsoft adds option to make Windows 10 devices passwordless

The new feature is intended to ‘reduce the risk of account compromise’

June, 2019

Thinking of capturing Fourth of July fireworks with a drone camera? Better think again

Drone regulation is a work in progress, and it’s always smart to check what the current regulations are in advance

The long-awaited Windows 10 update is here -- and it’s a mess

The major issue is that updates are codependent on what version of Windows a user is running

May, 2019

Google changes how apps will be rated in the Play Store

The changes are designed to give extra weight to apps that are the most current and have a good record of being updated and fixed

March, 2019

New study shows our phones are making us more tired and less productive

Researchers say screen time affects us more than we may realize

Apple found guilty of violating Qualcomm patents

The tech giant has been ordered to pay Qualcomm $31 million in damages

More than 200 Android apps were affected by adware before being pulled

The apps were downloaded 150 million times globally

Verizon to launch 5G network in Minneapolis and Chicago next month

The new network will be available to those with the carrier’s first 5G-capable device

January, 2019

New software could crack down on Netflix account sharing

The technology would flag users that appear to be taking advantage of a family plan

Researchers uncover dozens of adware apps on Google Play store

Malicious apps continue to be an issue on the platform

Apple App Store games found to be communicating with malware

Security researchers found over a dozen apps sending information to the server associated with Android-based malware

December, 2018

AT&T’s caller ID performs best in new study

Call Protect did the best job of telling which calls were spam

About half of U.S. consumers lack access to broadband

Researchers say the problem is more serious than FCC estimates suggest

November, 2018

Google Play removes driving apps that installed Android malware

A security researcher discovered that 13 games available for download were actually malware

iPhone or Android? The answer may reveal who you are

The type of smartphone you own could define you, according to a recent survey

October, 2018

Samsung fined millions for slowing down phones through updates

Apple also received a hefty fine for throttling phone performance last year

July, 2018

Lawmakers push for more research on technology's impact on kids

The effects on health and development are still unknown

AT&T announces latest cities to get 5G

Raleigh, Charlotte, and Oklahoma City will get the next generation technology this year

Microsoft CEO calls on Congress to regulate use of facial recognition

The executive says it’s important that lawmakers create comprehensive standards

May, 2018

Google rolls out Chrome changes that stop videos from autoplaying with sound

The company says Chrome blocks ‘about half’ of unwanted autoplays

April, 2018

Cyberattack on gas pipelines highlights vulnerability of pipeline infrastructure

Cybersecurity experts say having adequate cyber-security defenses is crucial

February, 2018

The Weekly Hack: Tesla, Facebook founder’s college roommate, and Fortune 500 companies under attack

A bizarre breach sent Australians to the page of an early Facebook user

Intel ships firmware updates for 7th- and 8th-generation Core chips

The company still faces numerous lawsuits from outraged customers

Google reveals flaw in Microsoft’s Edge browser

Microsoft has promised a fix, but the company hasn’t moved quickly enough to make Google happy

Google to roll out a built-in ad-blocker for its Chrome browser

The new tool will help users avoid some of the web's most intrusive and annoying ads

Winter Olympics, televisions, and 'smart' sex toys may be under cyber attack

Here are the things that were reportedly vulnerable to cyber criminals this week

Former Silicon Valley insiders launch anti-tech campaign

‘Our society is being hijacked by technology,’ the group says

January, 2018

Windows update neutralizes Intel Spectre fix

Microsoft claims the fix could cause data loss

Why you may be losing home internet connectivity

Google and Android devices may be overwhelming your router

AT CES, television sets are the star of the show

Latest TV sets feature higher resolution and AI

Microsoft pauses Meltdown and Spectre fixes for AMD chips

Update reportedly puts devices into 'unbootable state'

'Meltdown' and 'Spectre' flaws cause huge security concerns

The vulnerabilities put consumers' personal information at risk, but companies and experts say solutions are being implemented

AT&T to test 5G wireless service in 12 markets this year

Verizon announced a similar plan last month

Intel processors' design flaw may lead to huge computer slowdowns

Fixing the problem could slow devices’ performance by 30 percent

December, 2017

What consumers can expect from the first ‘Always Connected’ PCs

Qualcomm aims to make the PC more like a smartphone

Expert insight on securing your home’s smart devices

Enjoy the benefits of IoT devices without worrying about unwelcome intrusions

November, 2017

Survey shows millennials are Bitcoin early adopters

Here’s how the digital currency works

Walmart deploys robot workers at undisclosed stores, and they haven’t crashed

Don’t get between the robot and the shelf and you’ll be fine, the robot's creator says

Lowe’s launching ‘smart home’ centers in stores across the U.S.

The new stores-within-stores will let shoppers test and learn about smart home products

Smart household devices may be your biggest security blindspot

Strong wifi and device security a critical factor

iPhone X performs poorly in durability tests

Third party reviewers find high-tech features easily compromised, expensive to fix

October, 2017

Which devices are most vulnerable to cyberattack?

Hackers are increasingly targeting smart devices

Sophisticated malware may evade antivirus software

Security expert offers advice to consumers on how to protect themselves

September, 2017

Hackers target CCleaner and infect it with malware

Security experts say millions of users could be affected

Lenovo settles with FTC over adware that exposed users to cyber attacks

The software inserted ads into sites users visited and had serious security vulnerabilities

July, 2017

Hackers find voting machines as secure as a car with the key in the ignition

One machine from Tennessee was sold on eBay with 60,000 registration records

Why millions of PC users are locked out of Microsoft's Creator's Update

The problem may force consumers to either buy a new machine or lose access to security updates

Teens most likely to struggle with technology addiction

A survey finds that younger people have the most trouble putting their devices down

Protection plans for electronic devices -- are they worth it?

There are many ways consumers can cover their devices, but finding the right one is essential

June, 2017

Another ransomware attack threatens systems worldwide

Experts say this one appears to be more dangerous than the one launched in May

Researchers urge makers of wearable devices to keep older consumers in mind

Many devices currently suffer from debilitating design problems, they say

How to protect your personal and financial information online

There are many steps consumers should take to protect themselves and their loved ones

The pros and cons of the Samsung s8

The new phone is winning raves for its technology, not so much for its durability

Sharp sues Chinese firm to reclaim its name

Sharp says company it licensed to make its TVs is damaging its brand

May, 2017

Why your personal fitness tracker may not be all that accurate

Calorie measurements can be off by as much as 93%

Consumers are cool to virtual reality gear

Early sales haven't lived up to expectations

How to protect yourself from the WannaCrypt ransomware scheme

Experts say having up-to-date security settings is essential

Huge ransomware attack unfolding worldwide

Make sure your computer's up to date or shut it down ... now

Windows Defender vulnerability allows hackers to take over systems without a fight

Consumers must ensure that their devices are updated to the latest patch

Microsoft joins the AI race with the Invoke

Tower speaker will work with Cortana and take on Amazon Echo and Google Home

April, 2017

Tips for cleaning up digital disorder

Protect your personal information by making sure your digital doors are locked

March, 2017

Tech companies fight government 'gag orders' on search warrant cases

Facebook and Microsoft are bristling at government demands that they cannot disclose search warrants to consumers

February, 2017

Google launches new wireless gigabit service

A Denver apartment complex is the first to get Webpass service

Intel to invest $7 billion to create a chip plant in Arizona

The announcement comes on the heels of new proposed regulatory policies under the Trump administration

January, 2017

Majority of Americans are data breach victims, survey finds

Although concern runs high, most consumers do little to nothing to protect themselves

Yahoo to change name to 'Altaba' pending a successful acquisition deal

CEO Marissa Mayer and co-founder David Filo will step down as directors

Samsung hoping for reboot at Consumer Electronics Show

The electronics firm hopes to erase the memory of its Note 7 debacle

November, 2016

Preserving your pictures and videos for posterity

A new service says it can store them for up to 1,000 years

October, 2016

Sanders joins Trump in opposing AT&T/Time Warner merger

The deal is a 'gross concentration of power' that will reduce competition and diversity, he says

Google parent Alphabet pulls the plug on Google Fiber

Companies back away from fiber, which helped free them from the yoke of oppressive regulations

September, 2016

AT&T unveils AirGig, a wireless broadband solution that uses power lines

Verizon and AT&T are working to develop wireless 5G as an alternative to buried fiber

USB Killer 2.0 raises concerns over computer protections

The device can permanently disable a computer by electrically frying internal components

July, 2016

Why employees shouldn't respond to work email after-hours

How managers can help employees regain work-family balance

April, 2016

MightyTV can help you decide what to watch

This Tinder-esque app learns your taste in movies

Skoove can teach you how to play the piano from your computer

The program works with the keyboard you already have and adapts to your pace

February, 2016

Facing new market challenges, GoPro gets a reality check

In a disruptive marketplace, it may be hard to remain the "hot product" forever

October, 2015

Wearable tech to be 2016's top fitness trend

Survey predicts popular devices about to get more popular

September, 2015

Where's the TV guy? Dish lets you track him

Uber-like app frees up customers' time, eliminates guesswork

August, 2015

Hackers can steal Gmail passwords from Samsung “smart” refrigerators

If you need two digits to write your age, you're too old to be surprised by this

Video camera uses artificial intelligence to automatically edit footage

Graava says now anyone can turn out finished video content

July, 2015

Yet another U.S. government cybersecurity breach; this time it's the Census Bureau

The government still opposes secure encryption as a hacker-protection measure

T-Mobile gets more disruptive, ends North American roaming charges

Maverick carrier promises no-fee service when visiting Mexico and Canada

Your smartphone suffers in hot weather too

Excessive heat can damage electronics and cause the battery to run down faster

June, 2015

Vulnerability in iOS could allow hackers to spoof Apple Pay, steal users' credit card data

Another reason mobile device owners should never allow auto-connections to public wi-fi

May, 2015

Verizon, Sprint to pay $158 million for illegal cramming of customers' mobile phones

$120 million will go for redress to consumers who were wrongly charged

Future PCs may be cooled without fans

Machines would cost less, be cheaper to run and collect less dust

Mumblehard malware turns Linux servers into spam-senders

One server got blacklisted for sending spam its administrator never even knew about

March, 2015

Proposed “right to repair electronics” bill moves forward in New York State

But is it too loopholed to actually be useful?

PlayStation Network accounts hacked; Sony leaves victims holding the bag

No credit card chargeback, or Sony will cancel your PSN account

February, 2015

Reminder: change the default password on your home router, before a hacker does

This rule applies to any password-protected device you buy

New smartphone app records police and uploads video to the Internet, automatically

Hands Up 4 Justice records and saves video so police can't delete it

Digitizing slides with the Epson V600

Kodak's quality gets a new lease on life

January, 2015

Don't let “breach fatigue” leave you vulnerable to hackers and malware

Everyone's sick and tired of all these hackings — except the hackers themselves

November, 2014

Hackers steal Hilton Hotels' loyalty program reward points

Check your Hilton HHonors account and any credit cards attached to it

October, 2014

Guardian claims "anonymous" app Whisper secretly tracks users, shares info with U.S. government

Whisper denies such claims, launches counter-offensive against the Guardian

5 of the best mobile online billing software apps for business owners on the go

Looking for the right app for your business? We've got you covered.

September, 2014

Thermal-imaging devices can steal your PINs and passcodes

Luckily, a NASA engineer discovered an easy way to protect yourself

January, 2014

Lawsuit challenges MacKeeper's "clean computer" claims

The software finds problems on every computer it tests, the suit claims

December, 2013

Scam alert: Microsoft will not call you at home

FTC cracked down 14 months ago, yet scam continues

November, 2013

Satellite Internet: Which plan is best for you?

Three providers offer a variety of speed, capacity and price

July, 2013

Web giants to deaf consumers: go away

Internet Association says it shouldn't have to accommodate disabled Americans

March, 2013

Anti-Google Glass group warns of dire consequences

The sky really is falling this time, says Stop the Cyborgs. It offers t-shirts to buy a little time.

February, 2013

How to disable McAfee's auto renewal

If you don't disable it, you'll continue to be charged, even if you get a new debit card

November, 2012

DIRECTV and Exede to Bundle TV, Internet Service

Consumers may order from either company

Survey: Low Battery 'Chirp' May be Smoke Alarm Safety Hazard

Many consumers don't replace the battery, just disconnect it

December, 2011

Staples Addresses Security Concerns In Used Computer Sales

Many machines still contained old customer data

October, 2011

Sony Recalls Flat-Screen TVs Because of Fire Risk

Recall of 1.6 million Bravia LCD TVs is latest in a long line of Sony blunders

September, 2011

What's Wrong With Flat- Screen TVs?

A TV repairman says today's flat-screen TVs are poorly designed

June, 2011

Cloud Site Dropbox Drops the Ball

Popular data storage site accidentally unlocked users' accounts, suit charges

October, 2010

Nvidia Settles Faulty Processor Suit; Dell, HP, Compaq, Mac Owners Stand to Benefit

Graphics processor used in more than 50 laptop models tended to overheat

July, 2010

Consumers Frazzled by Samsung LCD TV Problems

Samsung Issues

April, 2010

Beware of the Yahoo Email Scam

Message from Yahoo! may look authenic, but it's not

Second Lifers File Class Action

Plaintiffs accuse Linden Labs of taking back 'land'

March, 2010

Classmates Sued Over Content-Sharing Arrangement

Site accused of improperly exposing personal information

October, 2009

Gateway Unloaded Warranties on Insolvent Company, Suit Says

Company's actions disproportionately affected students

August, 2009

"Black Screen Of Death" Afflicts Many Flat Screen TVs

Set power supplies appear prone to fail

April, 2009

FCC Pressed To Defend Wireless Open Internet

AT&T, T-Mobile accused of cutting services, blocking applications

September, 2008

Wilmington Goes Digital In DTV Transition Test

FCC test market for digital switchover watched anxiously

January, 2008

Data Thieves Hit Georgetown University Students, Faculty

Stolen hard drive contains data on 38,000 individuals

FCC Not Ready to Pry Open Wireless Networks

But agency warns carriers its plans could change

December, 2007

A Visit to the Video Professor's 'Classroom'

We sign up for the 'free' lesson

October, 2007

AT&T Threatens Complaining Customers With Cancellation

Users complain but company says language is neither new nor unique

September, 2007

Gamers Irate Over NFL Madden 2008 Glitches

Bugs make nation's most popular video game "unplayable," fans complain

Online Camera Stores: Take a Close Look

Rigged reviews, bait-and-switch tactics common

August, 2007

Georgia Man's Dell Laptop Bursts into Flames

Latest in a series of laptop fires

May, 2007

Ubuntu: Too Good to be True?

A Curmudgeonly Review by a Very Irritable Webmaster

March, 2007

The End Of Internet Radio As We Know It

Copyright Protection Board Deals Fatal Blow to Ad-Free Internet Radio

February, 2007

Planned Obsolesence Comes to Ink Cartridges

Some HP, Lexmark Cartridges Shut Down after a Predetermined time

January, 2007

BlueHippo Funding: The Pitch

An Expensive Way to Buy a Cheap Computer

November, 2006

GPS Tracking Adds Layer of Security to Laptops

Layer of Security Added to Laptops

August, 2006

"Exploding" Dell Laptop Destroys Truck, Imperils Outsdoorsmen

Vintage Truck Burns to Ground, Strands Fishermen in Desert Canyon

July, 2006

The Death of E-Mail?

Texting is the new, big thing

June, 2006

Survey: Employees Are Biggest Threat To Data Security

Monitor what content goes where

March, 2006

Citibank's Cards Mysteriously Shut Down

What happened to Citibank?

February, 2006

Homeland Security Looking at RFID Technology to Track Individuals

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is looking for technology that can read government-issued documents.

January, 2006

TV Logos Blamed for Plasma Screen Burn-In

Aussie views complain that those long days of cricket and tennis coverage on Channels 7 and 9 are leaving the stations' logos burned into expensive receivers

Symantec Hides Rootkits In Software

Rootkits in software are hidden by Symantec.

November, 2004

Risk of Cell Phone Explosions Growing

83 reports of cell phones exploding or catching fire

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