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Tech tip: How to find anyone’s email address online

Keeping up with your inbox feels never-ending some days. Between work, your personal life and all that spam, you might have hundreds of emails to sift through.

Junk mail getting you down? Do something about it. Spending a little time once will save you from clicking “trash” all day long. Tap or click for five simple ways to stop spam.

When it comes to catching up with an old friend or finding contact details for a potential business partner, reaching them by phone may be your first step. Tap or click for all the best ways to find anyone’s cell phone number.

If you strike out, turn to email. Maybe you wrote down someone’s email address incorrectly, or you have been trying to track down a relative and hit a dead end. I can help.

HACKERS, SCAMMERS AND ADVERTISERS ARE AFTER YOU: 5 SMARTPHONE SECURITY STEPS TO TAKE NOW

1. Start with a search

It might seem obvious, but one of the best ways to find an email address is to do a quick search for it online. If a search like “John Smith” + “email” doesn’t yield any results, there are several other ways to go about it.

When you use quotation marks in your search, it tells Google to search for that whole phrase. In the example above, results will only be displayed for John Smith. A regular search might produce results related to many people named John and tons of Smiths.

You could also try to guess the email provider the person is using. Try searching for “John Smith” + “gmail.com” or “yahoo.com.” Include the company that the person works for as well, like “John Smith” + “Acme Inc.” + “email.”

Google like a pro: 7 tricks to find exactly what you’re looking for

2. Use a site like White Pages or web directories

Usually, when I talk about online directories, it’s advice on how to remove yourself. These sites gather up a ton of information you might not want accessible for just anyone to find.

Tap or click to delete yourself from all the big people search sites. Be careful and follow the directions carefully; they try to trick you. Never pay to remove your info.

If you’re the one doing the searching, it’s worth seeing what you can turn up. With WhitePages.com, you can find cell phone numbers, addresses, business details, relatives and property details. It might not provide you with the email address, but it will undoubtedly give you more information to work with.

Hunter.io lets you search through a company’s domain for an email address and lists them with some information redacted for business contacts. If you find the person you are looking for, it will give you a good idea of their email address. A free account will provide you with 25 free searches a month.

Twitter has around 13 million users in Russia. (AP)

3. Try social media sites

There’s a chance you can find the person’s email address on their social media profiles. Some professionals will list their contact info on sites like Twitter or LinkedIn.

If you do find a social media profile, send the person a direct message. Ask if they can share their email address or how you can get in touch with them.

True or false: If you look someone up on Facebook, they know about it. Tap or click for the truth.

4. Try a plugin

Web browser plugins like Email Extractor for Chrome can help you find email addresses on web pages. While you can’t search for email addresses with the plugin, it can extract all the addresses listed on a domain.

This will make it easier to find a specific address if you know where to look. Email Extractor fetches IDs from the website’s source code to show you hidden addresses and addresses listed in plain text.

Email Hunter is another Chrome plugin you can try. It extracts addresses from pages as you visit them and auto-saves it to a notepad.

5. Make your best guess

If all else fails, guess. Really! Most companies use simple naming structures for addresses, like John.Smith@acmeinc.com.

Using the Hunter.io web directory, you can easily see what the structure is for a searched company. The website shows you the most common pattern in their address when you search for a business, like {first}{last}@acmeinc.com.

Bonus Tip: Is your boss watching your every move?

Check out my podcast “Kim Komando Explains” on Apple, Google Podcasts, or your favorite podcast player.

Thanks to invasive software, companies can track your every click, keystroke and movement — even outside of work hours. In this episode, security researcher Cooper Quintin reveals how so-called bossware works, what it tracks and how badly things can go when organizations use it to see every single thing you’re doing.

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What digital lifestyle questions do you have? Call Kim’s national radio show and tap or click here to find it on your local radio station. You can listen to or watch The Kim Komando Show on your phone, tablet, television, or computer. Or tap or click here for Kim’s free podcasts.

Copyright 2021, WestStar Multimedia Entertainment. All rights reserved. By clicking the shopping links, you’re supporting my research. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. I only recommend products I believe in.

Learn about all the latest technology on The Kim Komando Show, the nation’s largest weekend radio talk show. Kim takes calls and dispenses advice on today’s digital lifestyle, from smartphones and tablets to online privacy and data hacks. For her daily tips, free newsletters and more, visit her website at Komando.com.

Tokyo Olympics could be threatened by cyberattack, FBI warns

The Olympics are ripe for cyberattacks by nation-state actors, the FBI said in a notification to cybersecurity professionals, adding that these actors could hack or ransom sensitive stolen data.

The games provide an opportunity for state-backed actors to “sow confusion…and advance ideological goals,” the FBI said in a statement.

In its notification, the FBI cited the potential for distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks – where computers are rendered unavailable to an organization – targeting TV broadcasters, hotels, mass transit, ticketing services and event security infrastructure as a possibility. 

A person takes a picture from an observation deck as National Stadium, where the opening ceremony of the Tokyo Olympics will be held, is seen in the background in Tokyo. 
(AP Photo/Kiichiro Sato, File)

TOKYO OLYMPICS: WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT THE 2020 GAMES

DDoS attacks are often part and parcel of ransomware.

Some attacks have already happened. In June, Japan’s Kyodo News reported that information was leaked from a data sharing tool developed by Japanese IT company Fujitsu. The breach involved Japan’s national cybersecurity center which was preparing for potential cyberattacks during the games, Kyodo said.

State actors

Olympic meddling from state actors would not be unprecedented. The FBI indicted Russian cyber actors for hacking into computers supporting the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics, culminating in a cyberattack targeting the Opening Ceremony.

And the FBI notification comes in the wake of a joint advisory from The National Security Agency, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and FBI about an active malicious cyber campaign being carried out by the Russian General Staff Main Intelligence Directorate (GRU) targeting hundreds of U.S. and foreign organizations in order to penetrate government and private sector networks.

“GRU continues to be a threat…The scale, reach and pace of their operations is alarming,” a spokesperson from cybersecurity firm Check Point Software told Fox News.

BIDEN TELLS PUTIN TO ‘DISRUPT’ RANSOMWARE GROUPS OPERATING OUT OF RUSSIA

A person walks through the stands at Oi Hockey Stadium ahead of the the 2020 Summer Olympics, Thursday, July 22, 2021, in Tokyo, Japan. (
(AP Photo/John Locher)

Against a backdrop of global cyber warfare, the usual suspects could be active.

“Given the ongoing rise in temperatures of the ‘Cyber Cold War,’ it is likely that we will see many of those previously linked with recent high profile cyberattacks – such as Russia, China, REvil and other organized groups,” Lisa Plaggemier, interim executive director at the National Cyber Security Alliance, told Fox News.

The Tokyo Olympics are a potential “crown jewel” for hackers, Plaggemier said. 

“Ransomware, supply chain attacks and attacks against contracted third-party vendors, should be top-of-mind given recent success these threat types had in breaching SolarWinds, Kaseya and others,” according to Plaggemier.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

State actors from countries that have been banned from the Olympics could be especially active, Tom Kellermann, Head of Cybersecurity Strategy at VMware and member of the Secret Service’s Cyber Investigations Advisory Board, told Fox News.

The FBI said to date it is not aware of any “specific” cyber threat against the Olympics. 

Clever tech hack: How to text from your PC or Mac

Texting is fast and easy until it’s not. Maybe your service is terrible, and your messages won’t go through—what a pain. Tap or click for my bright ideas to boost your cell reception.

When you have a long story to tell but no time for a phone call, try audio messages. They can be a lifesaver if your connection is bad, too. Tap or click for steps to send audio messages on iPhone and Android.

If you’re working on your computer or don’t want to use your thumbs to message, send messages straight from your PC or Mac. It’s simple to set up.

Message iPhone to iPhone

iMessage is Apple’s messaging service associated with your Apple ID — the same login info you use in the App Store, iTunes Store and iCloud. It’s a simple way to send texts, SMS messages, and even Facetime from your Mac or iPad.

If you haven’t set up iMessage, enter in your Apple ID info and hit Sign in. To start a new conversation:

  • Click the New Message button at the top of the Messages window.
  • Type in your recipient’s name, email address, or phone number. If that person is in your Contacts app, Messages finds them as you type. To start a group conversation, add more recipients.
  • Type your message in the field at the bottom of the window, then press Return to send it.

Save some green: 12 ways to lower your monthly internet, cable, and streaming bills

Apple’s iMessage has long allowed you to message other iPhone users from the iMessage app on your Mac, but did you know you can also send to and receive messages from Androids, too? 

Just make sure you’re signed in to iCloud on your Mac and your iPhone and computer are both using the same Apple ID. To do this, simply open System Preferences from your Mac, go to iCloud and sign in using your Apple ID credentials, then open the Messages app on your Mac. 

On your iPhone, go to Settings. If you’re signed in with your Apple ID, it’ll show your name at the very top. Tap your name to confirm the email addresses match.

Use a Windows PC? You have several options.

Like what you’re reading? I share smart tips, news, and alerts via email every day. Tap or click here to try out my free newsletters.

There’s an app for that

Microsoft’s Your Phone app links your Android phone to your PC. This super handy app lets you make and receive texts and calls, get notifications, access your photo albums, and open apps. 

If you have the right Samsung model, you can instantly share files from your phone to your PC using copy, edit and drag functions. You need a Windows 10 PC with Bluetooth capability and a compatible phone running Android 7 or later.

Note: Configuring this can be a bit of pain, but once you get it connected, it’s smooth sailing.

Tap or click here to download and install the app to your PC. You also need the Your Phone Companion app on your Android phone or the pre-installed Link to Windows on your Samsung.

  • Open the Your Phone app and select Android from the list.
  • Sign in to your Microsoft account.
  • When prompted, open a browser on your Android and go to aka.ms/yourpc.
  • Sign in to your Microsoft account on your phone to get a QR code.
  • Select the checkbox for I have the Your Phone Companion app installed on my phone on your PC, then click Pair with QR code. You’ll get a QR code.
  • Your phone should now have a camera screen open within the companion app. Scan the QR code on your PC screen.
  • Accept the device permissions.

Feel like someone’s always listening? Tap or click to stop Google Assistant from recording what you say.

Use Android Messages

If you use an Android, there’s a good chance you use Google’s Messages app to send and receive text messages, photos, voice messages and video. You can also text anyone from your computer. The app also integrates Google services and features such as Assistant and Dark Mode into your chats.

  • Make sure you have the latest version of Messages installed on your Android phone.
  • Go to messages.android.com on your PC and you’ll get a QR code.
  • Open Messages on your phone and tap the three dots in the top-right corner, then Messages for web.
  • Tap QR code scanner and point your phone at your computer screen.
  • You should now see your conversations on the left side of your computer screen.

Send via email

If you’re in a pinch, email is a great way to send texts. This tip also works if you want to message your phone. Why? Perhaps you misplaced it somewhere in your home. To text someone by email, you’ll need their phone number and carrier. Let’s use T-Mobile as an example here.

  • Open your email program and type out your message.
  • Type the contact’s 10-digit phone number in the recipient box.
  • Follow the number with the @ symbol and the proper SMS gateway for the carrier. T-Mobile is @tmomail.net. For the sake of this example, the address you send your message to would be 1234567890@tmomail.net.
  • Next, send the message as you normally do.

Here’s a full list of email to text codes:

  • T-Mobile – number@tmomail.net
  • Virgin Mobile – number@vmobl.com
  • AT&T – number@txt.att.net
  • Sprint – number@messaging.sprintpcs.com
  • Verizon – number@vtext.com
  • Tracfone – number@mmst5.tracfone.com
  • Ting – number@message.ting.com
  • Boost Mobile – number@myboostmobile.com
  • U.S. Cellular – number@email.uscc.net
  • Metro PCS – number@mymetropcs.com

Bonus Tip: A woman was being harassed and stalked. How we found the guy.

Check out my podcast “Kim Komando Explains” on Apple, Google Podcasts, or your favorite podcast player.

One woman called my national radio show for help with a malicious stranger who stalked her daughter’s every move. Over time, the abuse escalated; the creep targeted her whole family, even posting the mom’s photos on risqué dating sites. Listen and learn how we unmasked the stalker!

Tap or click here to listen to how a stalker took over her life and steps to find out who he was.

What digital lifestyle questions do you have? Call Kim’s national radio show and tap or click here to find it on your local radio station. You can listen to or watch The Kim Komando Show on your phone, tablet, television, or computer. Or tap or click here for Kim’s free podcasts.

Copyright 2021, WestStar Multimedia Entertainment. All rights reserved. By clicking the shopping links, you’re supporting my research. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. I only recommend products I believe in.

Learn about all the latest technology on The Kim Komando Show, the nation’s largest weekend radio talk show. Kim takes calls and dispenses advice on today’s digital lifestyle, from smartphones and tablets to online privacy and data hacks. For her daily tips, free newsletters and more, visit her website at Komando.com.

Why it’s time to rethink cutting the cord — and 3 smart ways to save

Years ago, cutting the cord meant ditching your expensive cable plan for internet-based options that cost a fraction of the price. Now? You might be paying just as much, or even more.

If you want live TV, those packages are pricey. Of course, you can always buy an antenna and get free TV. Tap or click for reliable antenna picks no matter the signal strength where you live.

Did you know you can watch TV from your computer without paying for cable, too? All it takes is a little device called a TV tuner. Tap or click to see how they work. It’s a good budget-friendly option.

When it comes to streaming, you might have too much of a good thing. If you’re spending way more than you want to, I can help.

NO CELL SIGNAL? BEST WAYS TO BOOST SIGNAL STRENGTH WHEN YOUR CALLS WON’T GO THROUGH

1. Only keep what you need

A new show you really want to watch comes out, so you snap up a free trial for yet another streaming service. Or maybe you pay for a subscription in the first place because not every streaming service offers a free trial. Looking at you, Netflix.

It’s understandable. Every service has its own shows with five-star ratings from the critics. Before you know it, you’re dropping a ton of money on services you’re not even using.

Here’s my advice. Make a list of all the streaming services you pay for right now. Take a good hard look at your costs and see which platforms you use the least — or not at all. Then it’s time to cancel. Many will try to lure you back in with a free or discounted month. If you take advantage, set a reminder, so you cancel when that free month runs out.

KEEP SAVING: Are you paying too much for internet? There’s a good chance the answer is yes. Tap or click for smart ways to save

2. Go with a bundle or score a freebie

With a bit of research, you can probably save on what you’re already subscribed to. Here’s a good example: Disney+ is $7.99 per month on its own. Hulu costs $11.99 a month without the ads. You can get Hulu, ESPN+ and Disney+ bundled together for just $13.99 a month. Win.

UPGRADE YOUR OPTIONS: The best streaming bundles for every budget starting at just $20 a month

Some services you can get totally free if you’re in the know. Free Netflix is included with most of T-Mobile’s Magenta and Magenta MAX plans at no extra cost. Some AT&T unlimited plans include a free HBO Max subscription, and Hulu is included with Sprint’s unlimited plans. Many of Verizon’s unlimited plans include a year of Disney+ free.

Tap or click here for a full list of perks free from your wireless provider.

THESE 5 TECH TRICKS WILL MAKE YOUR LIFE EASIER

3. Not everything costs money

There’s a whole world of free movies online. You just have to know where to look.

A word of warning: Don’t go Googling on your own for free movie sites. There’s a ton of junk out there, and many of these sites pirate content (which can land you in hot water). Many also contain tricky buttons that you click to play, only to be led to another site.

That’s why we did the work for you. Kanopy, Popcornflix, and Sony Crackle are a few sites we’ve tried and like. Tap or click for 13 free streaming options you can trust. Keep in mind, many of these are ad-supported, but it is nice to save a buck.

Bonus Tip: How Bezos, Musk, and Buffett pay no federal taxes and a bonus for anyone who owns a home

Check out my podcast “Kim Komando Explains” on Apple, Google Podcasts, or your favorite podcast player.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

ProPublica obtained IRS information showing how billionaires like Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk, and Warren Buffett pay little in income tax when compared to their massive wealth — sometimes, even nothing. I sat down with an experienced tax accountant who works with wealthy clients to get the scoop. Plus, we talked about special tax credits to lower your taxes.

Tap or click here to listen to this 30-minute podcast now.

What digital lifestyle questions do you have? Call Kim’s national radio show andtap or click here to find it on your local radio station. You can listen to or watch The Kim Komando Show on your phone, tablet, television, or computer. Or tap or click here for Kim’s free podcasts.

Copyright 2021, WestStar Multimedia Entertainment. All rights reserved. By clicking the shopping links, you’re supporting my research. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. I only recommend products I believe in.

Learn about all the latest technology on The Kim Komando Show, the nation’s largest weekend radio talk show. Kim takes calls and dispenses advice on today’s digital lifestyle, from smartphones and tablets to online privacy and data hacks. For her daily tips, free newsletters, and more, visit her website atKomando.com.

No cell signal? Best ways to boost signal strength when your calls won’t go through

Today’s tech means we’re always connected — when our connections actually work the way they should.

Is your Wi-Fi crawling? No one has time or patience for that. Tap or click for 10 smart ways to fix your slow internet connection. Know the tricks before you need them.

While you’re at it, there’s a lot you can do to speed up your computer. Tap or click for six simple ways to get a boost. No IT degree is needed, I promise.

Next on the list is overcoming a spotty cell signal. It can be downright dangerous when you can’t make a call when you need to. These tips can help.

1. Rule out the basics

A fully charged battery is your friend. A nearly dead one could be interfering with your signal. Charge up and see if that remedies the issue. I always keep one of these portable chargers from Anker in my bag in case of emergency. It’s reliable and inexpensive.

Are your signal problems new or worse? Try removing your phone’s case. Depending on how thick it is and what it’s made of, it could be mucking up your coverage.

Finally, be sure your phone is up to date. Running the latest operating system patches security flaws (always a plus!) can make your device run more smoothly. Older versions of software could cause, or at least contribute to, connection issues. 

To update your iPhone, open Settings > tap General > select Software Update. If an update is available, select Download and Install.

To update your Android, open Settings. Choose System > Advanced > System update. Follow the steps on the screen.

Note: If your phone no longer receives updates, it’s time to upgrade to a newer model.

2. Try the good old IT standard

What’s the first thing an IT pro will have you do if a gadget isn’t working correctly? That’s right, turn it off and then back on. It’s a classic because, more often than not, it works.

Before you power down altogether, first try toggling on Airplane Mode. Turning this setting on and then off forces your phone to re-establish its connection to the network. 

On an iPhone or Android, navigate to the Control Center by swiping up or down on your phone’s screen, depending on which model you have. Then tap the Airplane Mode button. 

Wait at least 5 seconds and tap the Airplane Mode button a second time to turn off the feature. If that doesn’t do the trick, completely power your phone down, wait a beat, then power it back up.

TRUE OR FALSE: You need to restart your computer every single day. Tap or click here for my take.

3. Find another spot

The clearer the path to the closest cell signal, the better your service will be. If you have a weak connection, change your location. 

Some building materials can function almost as a faraday cage, killing your connection. If you’re inside, try positioning yourself closer to a window or go outside. Go upstairs if you’re on a lower level.

To optimize your location, try a cell phone tower search site. CellMapper is easy to use and has a ton of filtering options. Set your country, provider, and network speed, then enter your address in the Location Search field. Hit enter and you will see the closest cell towers.

NEW TRICKS: Master your iPhone with these 10 tricks not in a user manual.

4. Boost your signal

Let’s say your home is a cellular dead zone. You can call via Wi-Fi (more on that below), but you can first try a cell booster. 

A booster works in any location with an existing cell signal that needs amplification. They are relatively easy to use and install, but they can be a little pricey, given that cell signal boosters contain cellular radios in them.

One popular option from Amazon is the weBoost Home Boost signal kit. It works with all U.S. carriers, including AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, Straight Talk, and U.S. Cellular. You simply connect the booster to an outdoor antenna. No tools or drilling are required.

At 60 dB max gain, the booster won’t interrupt carriers’ signals to and from the cell tower. With 20 dBm in uplink-output power and 12 dBm in downlink-output power, the booster easily reaches cell phone towers.

Alternatively, you can purchase a femtocell from your carrier. It uses your internet connection to establish a better cellular connection. Make sure you have a strong internet line before getting one or you’re flushing away money.

5. Switch to Wi-Fi

No luck so far? You can skip a lousy connection altogether with Wi-Fi calling. If you often experience signal issues at home or work, your internet connection may be a more dependable option. 

On an iPhone, open Settings > scroll down and tap Phone > Wi-Fi Calling. Then, toggle the button next to Wi-Fi Calling on This iPhone to the right to turn it on. Wi-Fi Calling is now enabled.

On Android, open the Phone app, then tap More or the three-dot icon to open the menu. Tap Settings. Select Wi-Fi calling. If you don’t see the option, your carrier may not support it.

Making calls via your Wi-Fi connection may provide you with clearer reception than your cellular network does. Keep in mind you may still experience poor signal strength when browsing the internet or using an app.

Like what you’re reading? Get a great tech tip like this one delivered to your inbox every day. Sign up now while you’re thinking of it.

6. Communicating at 40,000 feet

Now, this tip won’t boost your signal strength, but it might help you get a message across in an emergency.

I was on a plane last week flying from Santa Barbara to Phoenix. There is a part of the desert where a plane’s Wi-Fi drops out for about seven minutes. My mother was in the ICU and the hospital needed my permission to do an immediate procedure as I am her power of attorney. 

With no Wi-Fi or way to make the call, I opened the Voice Recorder app on my phone and recorded a note giving the required consent. Fortunately, I was able to text the recording to my sister at the hospital, who played it for the attending physicians.

Bonus Tip: How Bezos, Musk, and Buffett pay no federal taxes and a bonus for anyone who owns a home

Check out my podcast “Kim Komando Explains” on Apple, Google Podcasts, or your favorite podcast player.

ProPublica obtained IRS information showing how billionaires like Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk and Warren Buffett pay little in income tax when compared to their massive wealth — sometimes, even nothing. I sat down with an experienced tax accountant who works with wealthy clients to get the scoop. Plus, we talked about special tax credits to lower your taxes.

Tap or click here to listen to this 30-minute podcast now.

What digital lifestyle questions do you have? Call Kim’s national radio show and tap or click here to find it on your local radio station. You can listen to or watch The Kim Komando Show on your phone, tablet, television, or computer. Or tap or click here for Kim’s free podcasts.

Copyright 2021, WestStar Multimedia Entertainment. All rights reserved. By clicking the shopping links, you’re supporting my research. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. I only recommend products I believe in.

Learn about all the latest technology on The Kim Komando Show, the nation’s largest weekend radio talk show. Kim takes calls and dispenses advice on today’s digital lifestyle, from smartphones and tablets to online privacy and data hacks. For her daily tips, free newsletters and more, visit her website at Komando.com.

China has 100-plus new nuclear missile silos under construction, satellite images show: report

In what experts say may signal plans to significantly expand its nuclear capabilities, China has begun constructing more than 100 new missile silos in a desert area in the western part of the country, according to a report.

Work at 119 sites was clearly visible and resembled existing missile-launch facilities, according to satellite images obtained by the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies in Monterey, California, The Washington Post reported Wednesday.

The sites were not the only areas in China where launch facilities were under construction, one nuclear watcher told the newspaper.

“If the silos under construction at other sites across China are added to the count, the total comes to about 145 silos under construction,” said Jeffery Lewis, director of the East Asia Nonproliferation Program at the Center for Nonproliferation Studies, according to the Post.

CNN ROASTED FOR GLOWING COVERAGE OF CHINESE COMMUNIST PARTY’S ANNIVERSARY: ‘THIS IS XI-N-N’

“We believe China is expanding its nuclear forces in part to maintain a deterrent that can survive a U.S. first strike in sufficient numbers to defeat U.S. missile defenses,” he added.

“We believe China is expanding its nuclear forces in part to maintain a deterrent that can survive a U.S. first strike in sufficient numbers to defeat U.S. missile defenses.”

— Jeffery Lewis, Center for Nonproliferation Studies

The work in China signals possible intentions to upgrade the country’s nuclear arsenal from the existing 250 to 350 weapons – a more modest total when compared to the U.S. and Russia, the Post reported.

The U.S. is believed to have a total of more than 5,500 nuclear warheads, including around 1,700 that have been retired and are awaiting dismantlement, according to the website of the Center for Arms Control and Non-Proliferation.

Russia is believed to own more than 6,200 warheads, including those slated for retirement, according to the website of the Federation of American Scientists.

ABC NEWS BASHED FOR PUBLISHING ‘GLOWING PROFILE’ BY AP OF CHINESE COMMUNIST PARTY: ‘REPULSIVE’

Other nations in the so-called “nuclear club” include France, Britain, Pakistan, Israel and North Korea, each with far smaller totals of warheads, according to the site.

The report of China’s new silo construction follows recent warnings by Pentagon officials about the nation’s nuclear expansion plans, the Post reported.

In February, Chinese officials dismissed U.S. worries about its potential new nuclear ambitions as “groundless” and a “vilification” of the country.

“There is an order-of-magnitude difference between the amount of China’s nuclear weaponry and that of the United States and Russia,” Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Wang Wenbin told reporters Feb. 5. “We firmly reject the groundless allegation and vilification from the U.S. side.”

Nevertheless, in April, Adm. Charles Richard, commander of U.S. Strategic Command, urged lawmakers on Capitol Hill to support an upgrading of the U.S. nuclear arsenal, warning of recent investments by Russia and China.

“I cannot deter with the leftovers from the Cold War forever in the future,” Richard told members of the Senate Armed Services Committee.

CLCIK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

He referred to the U.S. arsenal as a “70s-era weapons system that I am going to have to employ against 2030-level threats” if lawmakers fail to support improvements.

In early June, top House Republicans urged President Biden to create a strategy for combatting a Chinese nuclear build-up.

In a letter to the president, U.S. Reps. Mike Rogers, Mike McCaul and Devin Nunes pointed to Adm. Richard’s Capitol Hill testimony, warning Biden that China has “moved a portion of its nuclear force to a Launch on Warning posture and has a nuclear weapons stockpile that is expected to at least double, if not triple, or quadruple, over the next decade.” 

Fox News’ Caitlin McFall, Lucas Y. Tomlinson and Brooke Singman contributed to this story.

These 5 tech tricks will make your life easier

It’s so easy to be drawn into buying the latest and greatest tech. One of my goals is to give you ways to get more out of the tech you already own. Take Amazon Prime.  

If you signed up to shop this year’s Prime Day sales, don’t miss out on all the perks that come with your membership. Tap or click for my favorite hidden Prime benefits, including free, unlimited full-resolution photo storage and 5 GB video storage. 

Of course, freebies are always great. We regularly round up all the tech upgrades you can get without paying a dime. Tap or click for 15 freebies you’ll use anything from free office software to free audiobooks. 

Tech time and money savers tend to slip under the radar. Here are five I think you will love. 

Hang onto your phone number. (iStock)

1. Keep your phone number forever

Most of us have a few different cell phone numbers throughout our lives. If you need to switch to a new number, don’t let your old one go. Why?  

Think about everything tied to your number. You have likely signed up for many services over the years using it. Your cell phone number is connected to your bills, and it gets two-factor authentication codes to let you log in to various accounts. 

The easiest way to keep an old number is to port it to Google Voice for a $20 fee. Just be sure to do this before you switch numbers with your carrier. 

Not every provider or phone number is eligible, but it’s worth checking. You will need your account number and PIN, so have your billing account information handy. 

Tap or click for instructions and even more great uses for a free Google Voice number. 

2. Easy shortcuts to sound smarter

If you spend a lot of time writing, you already know about Grammarly, the tool that helps you fix grammar, spelling, punctuation and clarity issues. The free version of the browser extension is worth the download. The paid version, Grammarly Premium, gives you even more pointers. To save some cash, go with the annual payment option. 

If you have commas and spelling down pat and need help with readability, check out Hemingway. This free online editor analyzes your writing to help you make it clearer and more understandable.   

Paste a few paragraphs into the Hemingway website, and you’ll see what I mean. It highlights hard-to-read sentences, passive voice and other mistakes that make your writing difficult to understand. The web version is free to use, but you can’t save your work. The desktop app has a one-time cost of $19.99. 

Do you often struggle to find the right words? Wordtune is excellent in a pinch. Type in a sentence, and you will see several options for how you could get your message across in a different way. Try this one out next time you’re writing a difficult email or find yourself at a loss for words. 

There’s a way to make your Amazon deliveries more secure. 
(iStock)

3. Know your packages are safe and sound 

If you’re concerned about packages getting stolen, Amazon can give you a little extra peace of mind. One of the most popular is Amazon Key, which allows delivery drivers to drop off packages inside your gate, garage, or home. 

It works through smart locks and smart garage door openers that you install. Amazon gives your delivery person access via a wireless key. In-home delivery is still paused right now due to the pandemic. To use in-garage delivery, you’ll need two things: A garage-door opener compatible with the myQ app and Prime membership. 

The myQ Chamberlain Smart Garage Door Opener is affordable and reliable. Being able to open or close your garage from anywhere makes it worth the money. 

Tap or click here for a guide to setting up in-garage delivery. It’s easy once you have the right gear. 

Don’t like the idea of someone coming into your home or garage? Set special instructions on your orders. I ask for any non-breakable items to be tossed over the side gate. 

Your Amazon account needs a few tweaks to be as secure as can be. Tap or click for three essential settings to change now before you have problems. 

Check your home’s information on Zillow – even if its not for sale right now. (iStock)

4. Get the highest Zestimate for your home 

The real estate market is on fire throughout most of the country. Even if your home is not for sale, your home likely has a basic listing on Zillow.com. The most important part of that listing is your home’s estimated value or Zestimate.  

Zillow’s algorithms compare your homes to similar sales in your area. A home’s Zestimate has always been a point of contention. It’s seemingly either on the mark or too low. 

Obviously, you want that Zestimate to be as high as possible. To get started, register with Zillow and claim your home. Zillow gets many home facts from public records such as lot size, square footage, and number of bedrooms, but these numbers are not always correct. 

To raise your Zestimate, make sure the listing is complete and accurate. Pay particular attention to upgrades that influence the home’s value such as a remodel, view, and extras like a pool or gated property. You can add a full description of your home along with photos and videos. Make sure you complete the section marked, “What I love about this home.”  

But do be careful. Divulging pertinent details can give wannabe thieves easy access. Don’t upload a floor plan or post photos that include expensive items or security system locations. 

5. Share your home movies without Facebook 

I hear from callers on my national show all the time who want to share home movies without using Facebook. Uploading and sending via email is a major hassle. The solution? Set up a private YouTube channel. 

It’s fast, easy, and free. When you’re ready to share, all you need to do is shoot links to your friends and family. 

On YouTube, you will see two options for sharing: Private and unlisted. Private videos can only be viewed by those with whom you share a link. Unlisted means anyone could technically watch the video, but it won’t come up in search results or on your channel page. 

Tap or click here for steps to get your own YouTube channel up and running. 

Bonus Tip: How Bezos, Musk, and Buffett pay no federal taxes and a bonus for anyone who owns a home 

Check out my podcast “Kim Komando Explains” on Apple, Google Podcasts, or your favorite podcast player. 

ProPublica obtained IRS information showing how billionaires like Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk and Warren Buffett pay little in income tax when compared to their massive wealth — sometimes, even nothing. I sat down with an experienced tax accountant who works with wealthy clients to get the scoop. Plus, we talked about special tax credits to lower your taxes. 

Tap or click here to listen to this 30-minute podcast now. 

What digital lifestyle questions do you have? Call Kim’s national radio show and tap or click here to find it on your local radio station. You can listen to or watch The Kim Komando Show on your phone, tablet, television, or computer. Or tap or click here for Kim’s free podcasts. 

Astronauts tackle more solar panel work in third spacewalk

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla – Astronauts worked to install another new solar panel outside the International Space Station on Friday, making their third spacewalk in just over a week. 

NASA’s Shane Kimbrough and France’s Thomas Pesquet tackled the second in a series of powerful solar wings that should keep the space station running the rest of this decade, as space tourism ramps up with visitors beginning in the fall.

It should have been a two-spacewalk job, but spacesuit and other problems hampered the astronauts’ work on June 16. As a result, the first solar wing wasn’t unfurled to its full length of 63 feet (19 meters) until Sunday. NASA added a third spacewalk for Friday to attach and unfold the second wing.

NASA, SPACEX LAUNCH GROUNDBREAKING EXPERIMENTS TO SPACE STATION

To avoid electrical shocks, Kimbrough and Pesquet had to conduct most of their work on the nighttime side of Earth. That way, the station’s solar panels were not soaking up sunlight and generating power.

The two solar panels delivered by SpaceX earlier this month aren’t nearly as big as the station’s original wings. But they produce more electricity because of new tech. NASA plans to send up four more panels over the coming year; Boeing is supplying them.

NASA LAUNCHES MISSION FOR ‘EQUITY’

This first pair will supplement the space station’s oldest solar wings, degraded after 20 years of continuous operation.

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Kimbrough and Pesquet are two months into a six-month mission. Two other Americans are aboard the space station, along with one Japanese and two Russians.

10 apps you need to remove from your phone now

Apps used to be fun add-ons to get the most out of your phone. Today, they’re vital to our everyday communication, work and play. Sadly, it seems like every week, there’s another list of bad apps causing headaches or putting your security at risk. Phony cryptocurrency and financial apps are scammers’ latest grift. Tap or click for red flags that the app you’re about trust your money with is a sham.

While we’re talking smartphone security, there are five tweaks every iPhone user should make. Tap or click for steps to see which apps are spying, hide your location, and close down access to your camera roll.

Now it’s time to open up your app list and start deleting the rogue ones.

1. Game and puzzle apps

Most people don’t put much thought into downloading free puzzles and game apps. But, unfortunately, that can come back to bite you in a big way when malware and other dangerous code are hiding.

Apps spreading malware want to reach as many people as possible, so it’s not uncommon to see ads for them across social media. That includes games called Rugby Pass, Flying Skateboard and Plant Monster. Tap or click for a full list of 21 bad gaming apps you need to remove from your device.

It’s not just malware. Most games collect far more information than you might realize. For example, take the super-popular Words with Friends. 

This game collects the following data: purchases, contact info, user content, identifiers, diagnostics, location, contacts, browning history, usage and “other data.” I’ll stick with real-life Scrabble.

Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan – July 6 2019: Fortnite app in play smartphone. close-up on screen iphone.

AVOID THAT EMBARRASSING MOMENT! HIDE YOUR PHONE’S LOCK SCREEN NOTIFICATIONS

2. CamScanner on iPhone or Android

With precise cropping and auto light adjustments, this scanner app quickly shot to popularity. CamScanner even has an ID scan template, so employees filling out new hire paperwork can quickly scan and upload sensitive documents.

Now, hold on a minute before you trust this free app with your driver’s license, financial documents and Social Security number.

Back in 2019, cybersecurity researchers found malicious code in the Android version of the PDF creator app. The bad code came from a third-party advertising library. The app was updated, removing the offending SDK, and later returned to the Google Play Store. Still, you may choose to stay away because you don’t need it.

What can you use instead? For iPhone users, the pre-installed Notes app does everything you need when it comes to scanning. Tap or click for pro tips to get the most out of it.

For Android, try the Google Drive app. Hit the plus icon in the corner, then tap Scan. Easy!

3. Sketchy astronomy app

Astrology lets you peer into the stars to see why you are the way you are. Well, maybe. But download Astro Guru: Astrology, Horoscope & Palmistry, and you’re in for a whole lot of data sharing. 

Check Point Research says the app, which has over 10 million downloads, didn’t properly lock down user data, including usernames, dates of birth, gender, location, email addresses and payment details. Yikes. Best to get rid of it.

DIGITAL CLEANUP: Delete old accounts you don’t use, clear out your photo gallery, and clean your browser settings. Tap or click for simple steps to get all that and more done.

4. Find another way to fax

Here’s another find from research firm Check Point Research. iFax is a popular app that allows you to send — you guessed it — faxes straight from your phone.

Researchers found exposed cloud storage access keys that allowed access to faxed documents. As a result, malicious actors could gain access to documents sent by the app’s 500,000-plus users. That could be a very bad thing if you’re sending, say, signed financial documents that include sensitive information.

Looking for an alternative? FaxZero is free if you send no more than five faxes per day and only three pages at a time. There’s a FaxZero ad on the cover page, but that doesn’t matter much. To send up to 25 pages per day with no ads, it’s $1.99 per page.

If you need to receive a fax, eFax gives you a virtual fax number to receive for free up to 10 faxed pages per month. There are paid options, of course, should you go over the free plan.

Not everything free is after your personal info. Tap or click for 15 tech upgrades you can get for free. 

5. Say no to this logo creator

Check Point Research found another app with an open, real-time database: Logo Maker – Free Graphic Design & Logo Templates. The free app has a ton of downloads and great reviews. You would never know it could expose your info to anyone willing to look for it.

That includes email addresses, passwords, usernames and user IDs. Take this as a great reminder to set unique logins for all your accounts, even apps you may not access much. 

Imagine you download Logo Maker and set the same password you use for your bank website. Once a criminal gets their hands on your password, it’s easy to check other accounts using the same credentials.

Looking for photo editing software without Photoshop prices? Browse a list of free alternatives for every skill level.

The French government’s SAIP app will alert soccer fans to any safety tips and emergency information in French and English during Euro 2016.
(Google Play)

LOCK DOWN YOUR PHONE FROM SNOOPS AND HACKERS

6. An unsecured screen recorder

Recording your screen can be handier than a static screenshot, but be careful how you get the job done. Screen Recorder, which has over 10 million downloads, exposes recordings made by users. Check Point says the app stores screen recordings on a cloud service. That’s convenient, but researchers say, “there can be serious implications if the developers embed the secret and access keys to the same service that stores those recordings.”

Sure enough, Check Point’s research team recovered the keys that opened up access to each stored recording.

Of course, you don’t need a separate app for this. The functionality is built right into your phone. Tap or click for steps to record your iPhone screen. Tap or click to record on your Android.

7. Data-hungry Facebook

Think about how valuable your data is to Big Tech companies. Why else would they give you access to so many services for free? Facebook is a prime example. Here’s just a bit of what the app tracks:

  • Your contacts, call logs, and text messages
  • Your location
  • Your internal storage
  • Your camera and microphone

Facebook wants extensive access to your device. It wants to track where you go (online and in person), what you search for, and what you buy. Then, it uses that data to serve you targeted ads. Don’t mind the ads? All right. But Facebook is no stranger to data leaks, either. 

Earlier this year, 533 million Facebook user records were exposed. Tap or click here for a tool you can use to check if Facebook leaked your info.

8. QR code scanners

When you download a third-party scanning app, you’re clogging up your phone. Still, many people gravitate towards these programs. So instead of rolling the dice and giving up even more of your personal info, use your phone’s built-in resources.

On Android, open your camera app, point it at a QR code and hold steady for a few seconds.

If a notification appears, tap on it. If you don’t get a notification, go to Settings and enable QR code scanning.

To scan a QR code on your iPhone, open the camera app and hover over the code. Your smartphone will automatically direct you to the code’s link. 

Did you know QR codes are an easy way to share your Wi-Fi password without having to type it out? Tap or click here for instructions to set it up.

In this Sept. 28, 2020 file photo, a view of the TikTok app logo, in Tokyo.  The Biden administration is putting on hold a deal brokered by the Trump administration that would have had Oracle and Walmart buying a big stake in popular video app TikTok, according to a report in the Wall Street Journal, Wednesday, Feb. 10, 2021.  (AP Photo/Kiichiro Sato, File)

BILLIE EILLISH UNDER FIRE FOR ALLEGEDLY MOCKING ASIANS IN PAST VIDEOS EXPOSED BY TIK TOK USER

9. More than just dance moves

TikTok is famous for its quick viral videos — everything from dances to dangerous stunts. But when children compete for the most viral clout, they’ll go to any lengths. One 10-year-old Italian girl strangled herself to death in a viral “blackout challenge,” AP News reported.

All parents to know the perils of TikTok. Your child may tell you they’re on TikTok to hang out with friends and dance, but every kid is susceptible to peer pressure. If they see social media stars they admire partake in dangerous games, they may want to follow in the crowd’s footsteps — often at the expense of their safety.

If you have a kid at home, say goodbye to TikTok. Even if you use it on your phone, the kids may be inspired to download it for themselves.

10. Light it up

When smartphones first came out, flashlight apps were a must. Not anymore since this feature is built-in to phones now.

Many app designers added shiny new features to keep users around and keep tracking all that data. Take iTorch Flashlight for iPhone, for example. The free app tracks your location, personal identifiers, usage data and diagnostic info. That’s a lot to give up just to use a flashlight.

Bottom line: Ditch the flashlight apps on Apple or Android phones. You don’t need them, and your native flashlight app is just as good.

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Bonus Tip:

Do you have more photos than you know what to do with? Check out my podcast “Kim Komando Explains” on Apple, Google Podcasts, or your favorite podcast player.

In one episode that’s trending, I dive into the best ways to eliminate all the junk and duplicates — like memes and screenshots — hiding the important pictures you want to keep. Plus, how to backup and store your collection for easy browsing and long-term storage.

Tap or click here now to listen to my podcast “Too many photos? Insider tricks to organizing, sorting, and storing for the long-term.”

What digital lifestyle questions do you have? Call Kim’s national radio show and tap or click here to find it on your local radio station. You can listen to or watch The Kim Komando Show on your phone, tablet, television, or computer. Or tap or click here for Kim’s free podcasts.

 Copyright 2021, WestStar Multimedia Entertainment. All rights reserved.

Learn about all the latest technology on The Kim Komando Show, the nation’s largest weekend radio talk show. Kim takes calls and dispenses advice on today’s digital lifestyle, from smartphones and tablets to online privacy and data hacks. For her daily tips, free newsletters and more, visit her website at Komando.com.

Avoid that embarrassing moment! Hide your phone’s lock screen notifications

When you want to create some distance between you and your phone, switch on Do Not Disturb mode

It’s happened to me. You’re showing a friend or coworker something on your phone when a text or other notification pops up that you wish they didn’t see.

On Android, there’s the super handy Guest Mode. With this enabled, you can hand your phone over with confidence no one will be able to swipe through your texts, contacts, or photos. Tap or click for steps to turn that on before you need it.

I’m shocked Apple hasn’t added that capability to iOS. You can do a lot to lock down your smartphone, whether you use an iPhone or an Android. Tap or click for five essential settings you can’t afford to skip.

Now, let’s turn to those pesky notifications. To keep them off your phone while you’re sleeping or at work, or maybe for when you’re around certain people, follow the steps below.

The temporary option

When you want to create some distance between you and your phone, switch on Do Not Disturb mode. This option stops all forms of notifications: sound, vibration, or lighting up the screen. Note that this will stop notifications for phone calls, too. 

If you’re on an iPhone, swipe down from the top right of your screen to access the Control Center. Tap the moon icon to enable Do Not Disturb mode. You can also go to Settings > Do Not Disturb to fine-tune this feature. You can set up a schedule or exclude specific contacts.

On Android phones, swipe down from the top of the screen to access your notification shade and tap the Do Not Disturb icon. Go to Settings > Sound > Do Not Disturb to set exceptions and more.

Use an older iPhone or iPad? There’s an urgent security update you must install. Tap or click to see impacted devices.

The more permanent option

If you prefer to hide app notifications only and keep it that way, it’s easy to do in your phone’s settings.

On iPhone all apps:

  • Open Settings > Notifications
  • Tap Show Previews
  • Choose an option: Always, When Unlocked, or Never

If you want to stop notifications on your phone’s lock screen, select When Unlocked. This will keep notifications coming when you’re using your phone but prevent them from popping up on the lock screen.

To turn off notifications for only specific apps, go to Settings > Notifications > Siri Suggestions, then turn off any app.

INBOX SMARTS: Gmail tips and tricks: 10 buried settings and features to try

If you have an Android phone, you have five notification options: show no notifications, show all, hide silent notifications, or hide sensitive content specifically. You can also choose to shut off notifications for individual apps.

Shut off all notifications on Android:

  • Open Settings > Apps & notifications
  • Select Notifications
  • Under Notifications on lock screen, select Don’t show notifications

Hide sensitive content from notifications: 

  • Open Settings > Apps & notifications
  • Select Notifications
  • Under Lock screen, turn off Sensitive notifications

Keep in mind that the definition of sensitive content depends on your device but should include things like text messages.

Turn off notifications for specific apps on Android: 

  • Open Settings > Apps & notifications
  • Select Notifications
  • Find Recently sent and choose apps where you have recently sent notifications
  • If you don’t see the app you want, select See all
  • Tap Advanced > Turn off all notifications for a listed app

With just a few taps, you can get your phone’s notifications under control. Keep in mind, if you set up permissions on a per-app basis, you need to deal with anything new you download as it comes in. Tap or click for a quick shortcut everyone should know.

Don’t want to lose your dough to crypto? Check out my new book, Cryptocurrency 101. I walk you through buying, selling, mining and more! Learn more here. 

What digital lifestyle questions do you have? Call Kim’s national radio show and tap or click here to find it on your local radio station. You can listen to or watch The Kim Komando Show on your phone, tablet, television, or computer. Or tap or click here for Kim’s free podcasts.

 Copyright 2021, WestStar Multimedia Entertainment. All rights reserved.

Learn about all the latest technology on The Kim Komando Show, the nation’s largest weekend radio talk show. Kim takes calls and dispenses advice on today’s digital lifestyle, from smartphones and tablets to online privacy and data hacks. For her daily tips, free newsletters and more, visit her website at Komando.com.