Issue: 009

Tech Tips, Tricks & Cybersecurity Advice – No Jargon, Just Help

👋 Welcome Back, Smart Human!

You’ve got a smart speaker, smart TV, maybe even a smart fridge.
But with great convenience comes… creepy eavesdropping.

This week, we’ll show you how to regain control of your smart home without ditching all your tech.

🧯 Tech Emergency Prep Kit: Lock Down Your Smart Devices 🏠

Your home might be “smart,” but you need to make sure it’s also safe:

🗣️ Turn off voice assistant recordings.
In Amazon Alexa:
Go to Settings → Alexa Privacy → Manage Your Voice Recordings → Turn off.

In Google Assistant:
Google Account → Data & Privacy → Web & App Activity → Disable audio recordings.

🔇 Mute your smart speaker when not in use.
Yes, the physical mute button! Use it when you're not actively talking to it.

🔐 Secure your smart devices with strong Wi-Fi and guest networks.
Smart plugs, cameras, and bulbs are often targets. Put them on a separate guest Wi-Fi network with a unique password.

📱 Update firmware regularly.
Check your smart devices' apps monthly. Updates often include security patches.

💡 Quick Tech Trick

Change your wake word.
Tired of Alexa lighting up every time you say “a Lexus”?
Switch the wake word to something else — like “Echo” or “Computer.”
You can do this in your Alexa app under Device Settings.

🧠 Cyber Tip of the Week

Skip connecting your smart TV to Wi-Fi.
Unless you’re streaming directly on the TV, you don’t need it online.
Smart TVs collect a lot of data — disabling internet access limits tracking and potential spying.

Stay smart and secure,
— Your Grandson Techie