We recently assisted a client who believed their phone, email, and financial accounts had been compromised after forming a relationship with someone they met online. The interaction began as a normal conversation and gradually evolved into requests for privacy, financial assistance, and eventually account access. By the time concerns surfaced, sensitive information had already been exposed.


In this week’s Tech Tip Tuesday, we are examining how modern romance scams operate, why they often lead to broader digital compromise, and what steps you can take to protect yourself before emotional trust turns into financial damage.

How Modern Romance Scams Escalate

Romance scams are no longer limited to simple money requests. Many are organized operations run by coordinated groups that target multiple victims at once.

The scam usually begins with a carefully crafted online identity. Criminals use stolen photographs, fabricated professions, and believable backstories to create legitimacy. They often claim to work overseas, in the military, or in industries that explain why meeting in person is not possible.

The early conversations feel authentic and consistent. Emotional connection is built gradually and intentionally. Once trust is established, requests begin to surface. These may involve financial emergencies, investment opportunities, cryptocurrency platforms, or assistance with temporary access to accounts.

In more severe cases, victims are persuaded to share login credentials, install applications, disable security alerts, or provide copies of identification documents. At that point, the scam transitions from emotional manipulation to digital exploitation.

Why This Is More Than Just Financial Fraud

Romance scams frequently lead to identity theft, account takeovers, and long term financial damage.

If a criminal gains access to your email account, they may reset passwords on banking platforms, access cloud storage, or impersonate you in communication with others. If identification documents are shared, they may be used to open fraudulent accounts.

In some extreme cases, victims are subjected to blackmail, particularly if private photos or sensitive personal details were shared. These situations can escalate quickly and require immediate action.

Warning Signs That Should Prompt Immediate Caution

A relationship that progresses unusually fast should raise concern. Strong emotional declarations early in communication are often manipulation tactics.
If the person consistently avoids video calls or in-person meetings, provides repetitive excuses about overseas assignments, or uses highly polished photographs that seem inconsistent, those are warning indicators.
Requests for secrecy, isolation from friends or family, or pressure to act quickly without outside consultation are particularly concerning.
Any request for money, cryptocurrency, gift cards, or financial help from someone you have never met in person should be treated as a clear signal to disengage.

Practical Steps to Protect Yourself

Verification should always come before trust. Running a reverse image search on profile photos can reveal whether the images were taken from another source. Searching the person’s name and details online may uncover inconsistencies.
Never send money to someone you have only met online. This includes wire transfers, digital currency, prepaid cards, or emergency payments.
Do not share passwords, banking details, Social Security numbers, or copies of identification documents through online messaging.
Enable multi-factor authentication on all critical accounts, especially email and financial platforms. Since email controls password resets for most services, securing it is essential.
Regularly monitor your bank statements, credit card activity, and account login alerts. Early detection significantly limits damage.
It is also wise to maintain a healthy level of skepticism when interacting with new online contacts. Taking time to verify identity and involving a trusted friend or family member in discussions can provide perspective that may be difficult to maintain emotionally.

When to Contact Authorities

If you believe money has been stolen, accounts have been compromised, or identity information has been exposed, contact your financial institutions immediately.

For more serious or large-scale losses, you should report the incident to local law enforcement. You may also file a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov. This reporting helps investigators track organized fraud networks and may assist in recovery efforts.

If you are experiencing threats, coercion, or blackmail, contact local law enforcement immediately. In situations involving extortion or safety concerns, prompt reporting is critical.

You may also consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze with the major credit bureaus if personal identification details were shared.

The Bottom Line

Romance scams have evolved into sophisticated digital attacks that use emotional trust as their entry point. These operations are organized, patient, and designed to bypass skepticism.

Protecting yourself requires awareness, verification, and strong account security practices. Slowing down, confirming identities, and refusing financial requests from online-only relationships can prevent significant harm.

If you would like assistance reviewing your digital security or strengthening protections across your accounts, we are here to help you stay protected.

The post Romance Scams Are Becoming Digital Takeovers appeared first on CEO Computers.

Recently, headlines noting that the U.S. Department of Defense is exploring or using advanced AI platforms, including ChatGPT, prompted some users to reconsider which tools they are comfortable using. In response, a number of individuals publicly stated they were switching platforms or canceling subscriptions in favor of alternatives like Claude.

In this week’s Tech Tip Tuesday, we are taking a practical approach. Rather than reacting to headlines, we will compare Claude and ChatGPT in simple terms so you can determine which tool aligns best with your workflow, security preferences, and business needs.

Why Some Users Are Trying Claude

Claude, developed by Anthropic, has gained attention for its structured responses, longer context handling, and measured tone. Many users describe Claude as more analytical and conservative in how it presents information.

Claude is often preferred for reviewing long documents, summarizing complex material, drafting policies, and producing structured analysis. It is also known for maintaining consistency in professional communications.

Anthropic has publicly emphasized responsible deployment and clearly defined usage boundaries. For organizations that prioritize predictable responses and cautious output, this positioning is appealing.

Why Many Continue to Use ChatGPT

ChatGPT remains the most widely adopted AI assistant across industries. It offers strong versatility and a broader ecosystem of integrations.

Businesses often prefer ChatGPT for brainstorming, marketing content generation, coding assistance, data analysis, and workflow automation. Its integration capabilities, including compatibility with Microsoft environments and other productivity tools, make it highly adaptable.

OpenAI continues expanding its feature set, which includes file uploads, advanced data tools, image generation, and broader enterprise offerings depending on the subscription plan.

For companies seeking flexibility and a wide range of capabilities in one platform, ChatGPT may feel more comprehensive.

Key Differences to Consider

Tone and Communication Style. laude typically provides structured and measured responses.ChatGPT often delivers more conversational and adaptable replies.

Creativity and Ideation

ChatGPT is frequently favored for creative tasks and rapid brainstorming. Claude is often praised for disciplined reasoning and formal writing.

Document Handling

Claude is recognized for managing longer documents effectively in a single session, which can be helpful for contract review or policy analysis.

Integration and Ecosystem

ChatGPT currently offers broader integrations and tool extensions that may benefit organizations seeking deeper system connectivity.

Safety and Governance


Both platforms emphasize responsible AI development. Anthropic has positioned Claude with particularly strict use boundaries, while OpenAI has focused on scalable enterprise deployment and expanding feature depth.

Security and Business Considerations

Regardless of which platform you use, responsible implementation is critical.

Organizations should avoid entering confidential financial, legal, or client data into consumer-level accounts. If AI is integrated into business workflows, enterprise plans with defined security controls should be used.

It is also important to establish internal AI usage guidelines so employees understand what is appropriate to input and how outputs should be validated. Reviewing each provider’s data handling and retention policies is essential before broader deployment.

AI should support decision-making, not replace oversight.

So Which Is Best for You

There is no universal answer. If your organization values structured analysis, longer document processing, and a cautious communication style, Claude may be a strong fit. If you prioritize integrations, versatility, creative output, and broader feature depth, ChatGPT may better align with your needs.

Some organizations are testing both platforms before selecting one as a standard.

The Bottom Line

Shifts in public perception, including headlines about government use of AI platforms, have influenced how some users evaluate these tools. However, the more important question is not who is using the technology, but how it fits your organization’s needs.

AI adoption should be intentional. Selecting the right platform means balancing functionality, governance, workflow compatibility, and security posture.

If you would like assistance evaluating which AI solution best supports your business while maintaining proper safeguards, we are here to help you adopt AI strategically and securely.

The post Claude vs ChatGPT Which Is Right for You appeared first on CEO Computers.

In this week’s Tech Tip Tuesday, we’re explaining how hidden email rules are used in account compromise, why attackers use this tactic, what warning signs to look for, and how businesses can protect themselves before financial or data damage occurs.

How This Tactic Works

When attackers gain access to an email account, they rarely make obvious changes. Locking someone out would immediately raise suspicion.

Instead, they quietly create inbox rules that automatically move or hide certain messages. Emails related to invoices, payroll, wire transfers, or security alerts may be redirected to Archive, Deleted Items, or forwarded to an external address.

The user continues working as normal, unaware that specific conversations are being concealed. Meanwhile, the attacker monitors communications or attempts to manipulate financial instructions.

This tactic is commonly used in Business Email Compromise schemes involving vendor fraud, payroll diversion, and invoice manipulation. In many cases, the hidden rule is the only early indicator of unauthorized access.

Why This Is So Concerning

Email is often the operational center of a business. It contains contracts, client records, payment instructions, and password reset links for other systems. If someone gains silent access to email and can also hide messages, they can significantly reduce the chance of being detected. By the time missing emails are noticed, damage may already have occurred. The absence of messages is often mistaken for a technical issue rather than a security issue.

What We Did to Secure the Account

Once the hidden rule was identified, we removed it and began a full review of the mailbox. We examined all visible and hidden rules, checked for unauthorized forwarding addresses, reviewed recent login activity, and confirmed no unfamiliar devices were connected. The account password was reset, and Multi-Factor Authentication was enforced. When this type of activity is discovered, it is critical to treat it as a potential compromise and investigate thoroughly.

How Businesses Can Reduce This Risk

The most effective protection is proactive visibility.

Mailbox rules should be reviewed on a routine basis, not only after a problem appears. Using Outlook Web or the Exchange Admin Center allows administrators to inspect rules more thoroughly than desktop applications alone.
Multi-Factor Authentication should be required for all accounts. Even if a password is exposed, MFA can prevent attackers from gaining access.
Legacy authentication methods such as POP, IMAP, and Basic Authentication should be disabled if not required, as they are frequent entry points for attackers.
Mailbox auditing should also be enabled to track rule creation, forwarding changes, and large deletion events. Alerts for suspicious logins, such as impossible travel activity, can provide early warning before financial loss occurs.
Finally, automatic forwarding to external email addresses should be tightly controlled and regularly reviewed.

The Bottom Line

If emails appear to be missing, it may not be a glitch. Hidden mailbox rules are a common tactic used to conceal fraud and maintain unauthorized access. Email security is not just about filtering spam. It requires visibility, layered protections, and periodic review.

If you would like a proactive review of your Microsoft 365 or email environment, we are here to help ensure your systems are configured correctly and protected before an incident occurs. Please feel to contact us at 818-501-2281 for more information.

The post When Emails Disappear It’s Not Accidental appeared first on CEO Computers.

If you’ve shopped for computers and computer parts recently, you might have noticed SSDs, graphics cards, and even memory (RAM) aren’t as affordable as they used to be. That isn’t just your imagination — industry reports show that a global memory shortage is pushing up prices across the tech market. This shortage is affecting everything from SSDs and GPUs to hard drives, computers and laptops.

In this week’s Tech Tip Tuesday, we’ll break down why this is happening, how it might affect your tech plans in 2026, and useful tips to manage purchases and upgrades more effectively.

What’s Causing Price Increases for Memory-Dependent Devices

Memory chips like DRAM (used for system memory) and NAND flash (used in SSDs) are essential components in modern computers, gaming systems, and smartphones. Right now, demand for these components is very high — especially from AI data centers and enterprise hardware — which are buying memory at a much faster pace than manufacturers can supply.

Because DRAM and NAND production capacity is limited, manufacturers are prioritizing high-margin products and orders from major cloud and AI infrastructure customers. That leaves less memory available for consumer devices, causing prices for regular SSDs, GPUs, and even hard drives to rise.

This shift is affecting:

SSDs — especially high-capacity NVMe drives that rely on lots of NAND storage
GPUs — because video memory (GDDR) uses similar memory technology
RAM (system memory) — where shortages have already driven prices much higher
Hard drives and storage systems — even traditional spinning drives are seeing price pressure as NAND shortages ripple outward

What This Means for You

Here are some ways the memory shortage is likely to affect everyday buyers and tech shoppers in 2026:

Higher upgrade costs

Upgrading memory, storage, or graphics can cost significantly more than it did just months ago. Components that once seemed affordable are now priced closer to premium levels.

Prebuilt systems may cost more too

PC manufacturers are already warning of higher average system prices as memory costs rise, with some forecasts suggesting potential price increases of several percentage points for new laptops and desktops.

Delays and limited stock

Some vendors may reduce inventory to delay selling lower-margin products until memory prices stabilize. Others could offer systems without certain components (for example, selling a laptop without RAM installed) to give users flexibility and reduce upfront costs.

Practical Tips to Navigate Price Increases

Here’s how to adapt your tech plans to the current shortage and still get the performance you need.

1. Buy early if you need it soon

If you’re planning an upgrade — especially memory or storage — doing it sooner rather than later may lock in lower prices before another jump.

2. Consider capacity over premium speed

If prices for top-end SSDs or RAM kits are high, choose slightly lower capacity or performance tiers that still meet your needs. Often the performance difference isn’t noticeable for everyday use.

3. Shop refurbished or open-box

Certified refurbished components often come with a warranty and can save you money compared to factory-new products.

4. Plan for future needs now

If you anticipate needing more storage or memory soon, factor that into your build and budget plans today — prices may continue to fluctuate as shortages persist.

5. Keep software optimized

Good system performance doesn’t always require the fastest hardware. Regular software updates, disk cleanup, and managing startup programs can help your device feel snappier without jumping to expensive upgrades.

The Bottom Line

The current memory chip shortage — driven by global demand and structural shifts in how memory is allocated — is affecting pricing for SSDs, GPUs, RAM, and other components in 2026. While this may make upgrades or new builds more expensive, informed planning and smart buying strategies can help you navigate these market conditions.


If you’re considering an upgrade or need help optimizing your current setup, we’re here to help you make confident, cost-effective decisions.

The post Why is the cost of computers going up? appeared first on CEO Computers.

As more smart home devices add AI features, it’s becoming easier for technology to do more by default. That makes understanding your settings just as important as installing the device itself.

In this week’s Tech Tip Tuesday, we’ll explain what Ring’s Search Party does, why it sparked privacy conversations, and how you can manage or opt out of these features if they’re not right for you.

What Ring’s Search Party Feature Does

Search Party uses AI-powered computer vision to look for visual matches when a pet is reported missing. Nearby Ring cameras scan recorded footage for potential sightings and notify camera owners if a match is detected. Owners can then choose whether to share footage.

The feature is enabled by default on compatible outdoor Ring cameras. While Ring states that participation is optional and footage sharing is controlled by the user, the default setting means many people may not realize their cameras are participating unless they review their settings.

Why This Matters for Privacy and Security

AI features like this change how cameras are used. Instead of recording only when motion occurs, footage is also being analyzed for specific patterns or objects.

That raises a few considerations:

• Always-on analysis increases how much data is processed
• Features enabled by default rely on users opting out rather than opting in
• Cameras may capture people or activity beyond the intended subject
• Privacy preferences can change over time as new features are added
• None of this means smart cameras are unsafe, but it does mean users should periodically review what their devices are doing.

How to Opt Out of Ring’s Search Party Feature

If you prefer not to have your cameras participate in Search Party scanning, you can disable it directly in the Ring app. This setting is applied per camera, not globally.

1. Open the Ring app
2. Tap the menu icon
3. Select Control Center
4. Tap Search Party
5. You will see options such as Search for Lost Pets and Fire Watch
6. Tap the pet icon to disable lost pet scanning for each camera
7. Tap the flame icon to disable Fire Watch if desired
8. Repeat these steps for each Ring camera you own

Once disabled, that camera will no longer participate in AI scanning for those features unless you turn them back on.

Additional Tips to Protect Smart Camera Privacy

• Review AI and detection settings regularly. New features are added over time, and defaults may change
• Use strong, unique passwords and enable multifactor authentication. This helps prevent unauthorized access to camera feeds
• Keep firmware and apps updated. Updates often include security and privacy improvements
• Be intentional about camera placement. Avoid capturing public areas or neighboring properties when possible
• Review sharing permissions. Only enable features you actively use and understand

The Bottom Line

AI-powered smart cameras can be genuinely helpful, whether for safety, awareness, or even reuniting lost pets with their owners. But convenience should not replace awareness.

Understanding what features are enabled, how your footage is analyzed, and how to opt out when needed allows you to use smart home technology on your own terms.

The post Smart Cameras, AI, and Your Privacy appeared first on CEO Computers.

This type of attack works because people tend to trust messages delivered through collaboration platforms. It reflects a growing trend where cybercriminals no longer rely solely on email spoofing. Instead, they are leveraging trusted tools like Microsoft Teams to deliver malicious content directly into business workflows.

In this week’s Tech Tip Tuesday, we’ll explain how these attacks work, what signs to watch for, and how you can protect yourself and your organization from this evolving threat.

How Teams Messages Are Being Used in Attacks

Attackers exploit Teams’ built-in messaging and invitation features to send content that appears official. In some cases, they create fake workspaces or use compromised accounts to distribute urgent messages that claim a billing issue, subscription expiration, or security problem.

Because these messages are delivered through Microsoft’s own infrastructure, they often bypass traditional email security filters. Once a user engages, the attacker may redirect them to a fake login page, prompt them to call a fraudulent support number, or continue the conversation through social engineering.

The end goal is usually to gain access to Microsoft 365 accounts, which can then be used to read emails, send messages internally, or access company files.

Why This Is Dangerous

Once a user engages with the malicious content, the attacker’s goal can vary but often includes:

• Harvesting Microsoft 365 credentials — leading to email and account takeover
• Redirecting to phishing pages designed to collect usernames and passwords
• Social engineering follow-ups such as fake support calls or urgent messaging
• Establishing persistent access to communication platforms and cloud files

Because the initial message may look genuine and use official Microsoft branding, many users are more likely to trust it at first glance — especially in a business setting where Teams activity is part of daily workflow.

How to Spot Suspicious Teams Messages

Here are signals that a Teams message may be a phishing attempt:

1. Unexpected invitations – Teams invites you did not request or are from unfamiliar sources.
2. Urgent billing language – Messages reference payments you do not recognize, fake invoice IDs, or immediate action requirements.
3. Inconsistent text or characters – Some scam messages use look-alike characters or odd spacing to bypass filters.
4. Requests for credentials or support contact – Legitimate Teams alerts will never ask you to call an external support number or enter your credentials in a non-Microsoft portal.
5. Links that don’t match their labels – Hover before clicking to see the actual URL and ensure it matches the displayed text.

Best Practices to Protect Yourself

• Always verify the sender and the context of any unexpected Teams message by contacting the person or department through another method.
• Never enter your login credentials through a link sent in Teams. Instead, open your browser and navigate directly to the official Microsoft sign-in page.
• Enable multifactor authentication on your Microsoft accounts. This adds an extra layer of protection even if a password is compromised.
• Report suspicious messages directly within Teams by selecting the message options and choosing Report.
• Keep Teams, your operating system, and your browser updated so security patches are applied.
• Finally, make sure employees and family members know that collaboration tools can be abused just like email. Awareness remains one of the strongest defenses.

The Bottom Line

Cybercriminals are adapting their tactics by using trusted platforms like Microsoft Teams to launch convincing phishing campaigns. Understanding how these attacks work and knowing what to watch for can prevent a single message from turning into a major security incident.

If you would like help reviewing your Microsoft 365 security settings, enabling multifactor authentication, or providing awareness training, please feel free to contact us at 818-501-2281 or email us at info@ceocomputers.com.

The post Hackers Are Using Microsoft Teams to Target Your Email appeared first on CEO Computers.

In this week’s Tech Tip Tuesday, we are breaking down where AI shows up in your inbox today, what the biggest providers offer, and most importantly, how to turn these features on or off so you stay in control.

Gmail by Google

What AI features Gmail uses

Gmail uses AI to power features such as Smart Compose, Smart Reply, inbox nudges, spam and phishing detection, and contextual suggestions. These tools help finish sentences as you type, offer quick reply buttons, and surface important emails.

How to turn Smart Compose and Smart Reply on or off (desktop)

1. Open Gmail in a web browser.
2. Click the Settings gear icon in the top right.
3. Select See all settings.
4. Stay on the General tab.
5. Scroll to Smart Compose.
6. – Select Writing suggestions on to enable
7. – Select Writing suggestions off to disable
8. Scroll to Smart Reply.
9. – Check or uncheck Enable Smart Reply
10. Scroll to the bottom and click Save Changes.

How to turn Smart Compose and Smart Reply on or off (mobile)

1. Open the Gmail app.
2. Tap the menu icon and go to Settings.
3. Select your email account.
4. Toggle Smart Compose and Smart Reply on or off.

Important note on Smart Features

Some Gmail features like package tracking summaries and event suggestions are controlled by Smart features and personalization.

To manage those:

1. Go to Gmail settings on desktop.
2. Under the General tab, find Smart features and personalization.
3. Toggle these on or off depending on how much automation you want.

Outlook by Microsoft

What AI features Outlook uses

Outlook includes AI assisted features such as Suggested Replies and other writing assistance tools. Some users may also have access to Copilot features if their account includes a paid Copilot license.

Outlook’s settings layout varies by version, region, and account type. You may see AI related options under either Smart suggestions or Compose and reply. Both are correct.

How to manage Suggested Replies in Outlook

1. Sign in to Outlook.com or Outlook on the web
2. Click the Settings gear icon
3. Select Mail
4. Select Smart suggestions or Compose and reply
5. Locate Suggested replies
6. Toggle Show suggested replies on or off
7. Click Save

About text predictions and other AI tools

Some Outlook users may see an option for Text predictions under Smart suggestions. If it appears, it can be toggled on or off. If it does not appear, the feature is not available for that account or region. This is expected behavior.

Other writing assistance may be provided through Microsoft Editor or Copilot and may not have a single global toggle.

Apple Mail A Deliberate Contrast

Apple Mail takes a noticeably different approach compared to Gmail and Outlook. It does not use cloud based generative AI to draft replies, summarize conversations, or analyze email content for writing assistance. Instead, Apple focuses on limited, on device intelligence aimed at organization rather than content creation.

In practice, this means Apple Mail may prioritize important messages, improve search accuracy, or suggest contacts using local device data. These features run on the device and are designed to avoid sending email content to external AI models.

For users and organizations that prefer fewer automated features and stronger privacy boundaries, this approach can be appealing. There are no AI writing tools to manage or disable and no inbox level AI responses being generated behind the scenes.

Apple’s design highlights an important point. AI in email is a choice, not a requirement. Some platforms emphasize productivity through automation, while others prioritize simplicity and privacy by design.

Free AI Tools That Work With Any Inbox

Tools like ChatGPT and Claude can be used to draft emails, summarize threads, or rewrite messages by copying and pasting text. Free versions work well for everyday use.

Avoid pasting sensitive business data, passwords, or client information into these tools unless you understand how that data is handled.

Browser extensions and AI keyboards can also assist with email writing, but always review permissions carefully since many require access to email content.

Using Inbox AI Safely

AI can save time, but it does not replace judgment. Always review suggested replies before sending. Be cautious with sensitive information, and remember that attackers also use AI to craft more convincing phishing emails.

Enable multifactor authentication on email accounts and treat unexpected or urgent requests with extra scrutiny.

Bottom Line

AI is already part of most inboxes whether you realize it or not. Gmail, Outlook, and Apple Mail all include intelligent features that can be helpful when used intentionally. Knowing where these tools live and how to control them ensures you get the benefit without losing visibility into how your data is handled.

If you would like help reviewing inbox settings or creating safe AI usage guidelines for your team, we are happy to help.

The post AI Is Already in Your Inbox appeared first on CEO Computers.

Verizon has since confirmed that the outage was caused by a server related software issue within its network, not a cyberattack. While that distinction is important, the incident reinforced a key reality for modern businesses: even large, well-resourced providers can experience extended outages with little warning.

In this week’s Tech Tip Tuesday, we are looking at what this outage revealed about mobile dependency and how organizations can better prepare for future disruptions.

Why This Matters to Businesses

Mobile connectivity is now embedded in everyday business operations. It supports client communication, staff coordination, authentication systems, mobile payment processing, remote access, and cloud based tools. When a cellular network goes down, the effects ripple quickly across multiple systems.

During the outage, some users were unable to receive authentication codes, access critical applications, or place emergency calls unless they were connected to Wi Fi. For businesses that rely heavily on mobile devices, even a few hours of downtime created operational delays and customer service challenges.

Outages like this highlight the importance of treating mobile service as a critical dependency rather than a convenience.

How to Reduce Impact During Future Outages

• The most effective way to reduce disruption is to build redundancy into communication and access methods. Avoid placing all critical workflows on a single carrier whenever possible. Distributing devices across multiple providers or using dual SIM phones gives teams more flexibility if one network fails.

• Wi Fi calling should be enabled on all supported devices. When cellular service is unavailable, but internet access remains, Wi Fi calling allows calls and text messages to continue functioning. Internet based phone systems and collaboration tools can also serve as reliable backups.

• Emergency communication planning is equally important. Businesses should ensure there is a non-mobile option available, such as a landline or clearly documented alternate contact method. Staff should know in advance how to reach leadership, customers, and emergency services if mobile phones stop working.

• A simple internal outage plan can significantly reduce confusion. This includes defining how teams communicate during outages, identifying who is responsible for customer updates, and documenting how to access essential systems through alternative connections. Reviewing this plan periodically helps ensure it is familiar before it is needed.

• Authentication deserves special attention. Many systems rely on text message-based verification codes, which may not arrive during a carrier outage. Using authenticator apps and setting up backup verification options helps prevent lockouts when mobile service is unavailable.

• Finally, some devices may not reconnect automatically once service is restored. Restarting the phone, toggling Airplane mode, or checking for carrier updates often resolves lingering connection issues and helps devices reattach to the network.

How to Know When an Outage Is Widespread

When service drops, it is not always clear whether the issue lies with the device, the local area, or the carrier itself. One of the most reliable ways to confirm a widespread outage is to check DownDetector, a well-known crowdsourced outage reporting service. It aggregates real time user reports and often surfaces issues minutes before official carrier updates are posted.

Using a trusted outage tracking site can save time, reduce frustration, and prevent unnecessary troubleshooting when the problem is outside your control.

Bottom Line

The Verizon outage was not the result of a cyberattack, but it served as a reminder that even robust networks are not immune to failure. Businesses that plan for redundancy, communication continuity, and secure access are far better positioned to weather these disruptions with minimal impact.

If you would like help reviewing your mobile setup, enabling Wi Fi calling, or creating a practical outage response plan, we are here to help you prepare before the next interruption occurs.

The post Why mobile outages matter and how to prepare appeared first on CEO Computers.

That concern is understandable. Privacy preferences vary, and some individuals prefer private services that handle data removal on their behalf rather than submitting requests through a state managed portal.

In this week’s follow up Tech Tip Tuesday, we are covering alternative options available to anyone who wants to reduce their digital footprint without using the state platform.

Why Some People Look for Alternatives:

Data broker removal requires sharing personal details so brokers can identify and delete records. For some, the idea of providing that information to a government system feels counterintuitive, even when protections are in place.

Others prefer solutions that work across multiple states or countries, not just California. Some simply want a hands off approach where someone else manages the ongoing removal process.

For those reasons, third party data removal services have become popular. We are highlighting two of the most popular apps in the market that provide Personal Data Removal services.

Private Data Removal Services to Consider:

Privacy Bee

Privacy Bee is a consumer privacy service that scans the internet and data broker sites for your personal information and submits removal requests on your behalf.

Key points to understand:

• Focuses on data brokers and people search sites

• Provides visibility into where your data appears

• Offers ongoing monitoring and repeat removals

• Requires you to share personal details so matches can be found

Privacy Bee appeals to users who want transparency into where their data exists and prefer a subscription based service that continues working over time.

Incogni

Incogni is a data removal service operated by the same company behind several privacy focused security tools. It focuses on automation and simplicity.

Key points to understand:

• Sends opt out requests to many data brokers automatically

• Emphasizes minimal user involvement after setup

• Operates continuously rather than as a one time request

• Limited visibility into individual broker responses

Incogni may appeal to users who want a more hands off experience without managing individual requests themselves.

Important Things to Keep in Mind:

No matter which approach you choose, there are a few realities worth understanding.

• No service can remove all data: Public records, court filings, and certain business records may not be eligible for deletion.
• Removal is not permanent without monitoring: Data brokers frequently recollect information. Ongoing services help reduce reappearance.
• You are trading convenience for trust: Third party services require access to personal details to function properly. Choose providers carefully and review privacy policies.
• Results take time: Whether using a state platform or private service, removals may take weeks or months to complete.

Key note: These services are subscription based and feature various fees based on subscription type.

Choosing the Right Option for You:

There is no single best solution. The right choice depends on your comfort level and priorities.

The California platform may appeal to those who want a free regulated option with legal enforcement behind it. Private services may suit those who prefer automation or broader coverage beyond California.

Some people choose to use both approaches, submitting a state request while also using a private service for ongoing monitoring.

Bottom Line:

Reducing your digital footprint is one of the most effective ways to lower exposure to scams identity misuse and unwanted tracking. Whether you use a government provided tool or a private service, taking action is far better than doing nothing.

If you would like help reviewing your privacy exposure, understanding these services, or deciding which approach fits your situation best, we are happy to help you evaluate your options and improve your overall data security posture.

The post Alternatives for Removing Your Personal Data Online appeared first on CEO Computers.

In this week’s Tech Tip Tuesday, we are highlighting a new California privacy tool that allows residents to demand the deletion of their personal data from hundreds of data brokers using a single request. We will explain what the tool does, when it takes effect, why it matters, and what additional steps you can take to better protect your information.

What the New California Tool Does

California has introduced the Delete Request and Opt Out Platform, commonly referred to as DROP. This system allows residents to submit one verified deletion request that will be sent to all registered data brokers operating in the state.

While residents can submit requests now, data brokers are required to begin processing and complying with these deletion requests starting in August 2026. From that point forward, brokers must regularly check the platform and remove matching personal data within the required timeframes.

Instead of contacting dozens or hundreds of companies individually, the platform centralizes the process and enforces compliance through state oversight. While public records are not always covered, this significantly reduces how widely personal data is bought and sold.

Why This Matters

Data brokers often resell the same information repeatedly. Each copy increases the risk of phishing attempts, targeted scams, identity theft, and impersonation. Reducing the number of places your data exists lowers overall exposure and makes it harder for criminals to build accurate personal profiles.

As scams become more automated and personalized, limiting data availability is an increasingly important layer of protection.

Additional Ways to Improve Your Data Security

• Review app permissions: Remove access to location, contacts, and microphones for apps that do not need them.
• Enable multifactor authentication: Use it on email, financial, and shopping accounts to prevent unauthorized access.
• Audit old accounts: Delete unused accounts that still store personal information.
• Use privacy focused browsers or extensions: Tracker blockers reduce passive data collection while browsing.
• Monitor credit and account activity: Regular checks help detect misuse early when it is easiest to resolve.
• Be cautious with online forms and sign ups: Only share required information and avoid unnecessary data fields.

Bottom Line

The new California DROP platform gives residents meaningful control over their personal data at scale. While enforcement begins in August 2026, submitting a deletion request now ensures your information is queued for removal once brokers are required to comply.

Combined with strong everyday privacy habits, this tool helps shrink your digital footprint and lowers long term risk. If you would like help reviewing privacy settings or improving data security practices, we are here to assist.

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