Issue: 037

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

Hey Techie,

Make Your Tech Work For You (Not Against You)

As we move forward, this issue focuses on small tweaks that remove friction from everyday tech use. No gimmicks, no hype — just simple adjustments that quietly make life easier.

📱 Quick Tech Tip

Use Built-In Text Replacement for Things You Type All the Time

If you repeatedly type your email, address, or common phrases, let your phone do the work.

Set it up:

• iPhone: Settings → General → Keyboard → Text Replacement

• Android: Settings → System → Languages & Input → On-screen keyboard → Text correction

Example:
Typing @@ → automatically expands to your full email address.

This saves time daily and reduces typos — especially useful for forms, messages, and work emails.

🔐 Cybersecurity Tip

Check If Your Phone Number Is Publicly Searchable

Your phone number may be exposed online through old accounts, data brokers, or social platforms — making you more vulnerable to spam, SIM-swap attempts, and scams.

Do this:

• Google your phone number in quotes

• Remove it from old profiles or account settings

• Opt out of data broker sites when possible

Keeping your number less visible reduces scam calls and targeted attacks.

🛠 Practical Habit to Try This Week

Rename Your Bluetooth Devices

Most people have no idea which “BT-1234” device they’re connecting to.

Rename things like:

• Headphones

• Car audio

• Smart speakers

This prevents accidental connections and saves frustration — especially in shared spaces.

🕹️ Gadget of the Week: Perpetual Motion Desk Toy

Is it solving the mysteries of the universe? No. Is it oddly hypnotic and impossible to stop watching? Absolutely. This perpetual motion desk toy spins, rocks, and glides with just a gentle nudge, turning idle moments into tiny zen breaks between emails and meetings.

Made from sleek aluminum and iron, it looks like serious science while quietly serving as stress relief for your brain. Perfect for desks, shelves, or anyone who enjoys pretending they understand physics while staring at something mesmerizing.

Stay safe and savvy,
—Your Grandson Techie