Issue: 034

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

Hey Techie,

Welcome to Issue 003 of The Grandson Techie!
Today we’re launching our Tech Emergency Prep Kit—a step-by-step mini-series to help you prepare for those "oh no" tech moments before they happen.

📦 Holiday Prep Mini-Guide: 6 Digital Tasks Before Guests Arrive

1. Check Wi-Fi coverage

   • Boost guest bedroom/basement with inexpensive extender

2. Create a temporary guest network

   • Keeps your main devices safe

3. Enable smart doorbell notifications

   • Track packages + arrivals

4. Clean up your digital photo roll

   • Make space for holiday memories

5. Update smart plugs

   • Schedule tree lights to turn on at sunset

6. Back up your phone

   • Before travel, before photos, before chaos

⚙️ Quick Tech Trick

Use “Scheduled Send” for Messages During Different Time Zones

Traveling? Family in different regions?
You can write messages now and schedule them to send at the right local time.

iPhone (iMessage):
Requires Shortcuts:
Shortcuts → Automation → Schedule message → choose time

Android Messages:
Compose → long press the send arrow → Schedule send

Perfect for:
🎄 holiday greetings
🎁 birthday texts
🏠 home check-ins
⏰ reminders while traveling

No more “Oops, I woke them up at 5am.”

🧯 Tech Emergency Prep Kit

Step 14: Create a Shared Family Contact Sheet

During holidays, families split up — malls, airports, big houses, events.

Create one shared note (Google Keep, Notes, etc.) containing:
📍 addresses
📞 phone numbers
🚕 rideshare pickup points
🩺 nearby urgent care
🌧️ weather alerts info
📶 Wi-Fi networks (if staying somewhere new)

Share with:

• Family members

• Houseguests

• Elderly relatives who may get turned around

Everyone has the same info, even if one person loses their phone.

🕹️ Gadget of the Week: 4 Pack Airtag Case Holder for Apple Air Tag, Airtag Case

Ever lost something important and thought, “Well, guess that’s gone forever”? These colorful little AirTag holders are basically tiny security guards that clip onto keys, backpacks, dog collars, luggage, and anything with a mysterious habit of vanishing. They’re durable, bright, and make your AirTag look cute instead of clinical.

Perfect for kids, pets, travelers, and forgetful adults who routinely misplace… everything. Clip, track, relax. If it moves, you’ll know where it went.

Stay safe and savvy,
—Your Grandson Techie