Confident Computing – by Ask Leo! https://newsletter.askleo.com/ Technology in terms you understand Sun, 03 May 2026 17:38:27 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://newsletter.askleo.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/al320new.jpg Confident Computing – by Ask Leo! https://newsletter.askleo.com/ 32 32 #1120 – What Is “Mailer-Daemon” and Why Is It Sending Me Email? https://newsletter.askleo.com/1120-what-is-mailer-daemon-and-why-is-it-sending-me-email/ Tue, 05 May 2026 15:00:13 +0000 https://newsletter.askleo.com/?p=9401 What Is "Mailer-Daemon" and Why Is It Sending Me Email?

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#1120 - What Is "Mailer-Daemon" and Why Is It Sending Me Email?

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The truth is that Ask Leo! is really just a massive FAQ. Smile That's certainly how it started: I get asked questions, I write up an answer, and I don't have to answer that question again, I can just point people at the article online.

Even within a FAQ, though, some questions are asked more frequently than others, and I find myself referring to certain articles more often than others. I use a list for my own quick reference that you might find useful at times: My most referenced articles. I visit that page to copy a link often.

In other news, the coupon code for May is: MAYMAY. 20% of at the Ask Leo! Store as my way of saying thank you for subcribing.

Onward!

Leo

-

This Week on Ask Leo!

What Is "Mailer-Daemon" and Why Is It Sending Me Email?

What Is "Mailer-Daemon" and Why Is It Sending Me Email?
It's a friendly helper.

Get an email "from" mailer-daemon? There's a good reason this mysterious sender keeps showing up.

Read: What Is "Mailer-Daemon" and Why Is It Sending Me Email?

-

What

What's My IP Address?
The information exposed to every website you visit.

You might be sharing more than you think when you visit a website. Your IP address, your browser details, and even what you searched for to get there is all visible. I'll explain what websites see when you show up and why it matters.

Read: What's My IP Address?

-

How Two-Factor Authentication Works and Why You Need It Right Now

How Two-Factor Authentication Works and Why You Need It Right Now
It keeps hackers out.

Your password alone might not be enough to keep hackers out. Two-factor authentication adds a second layer of protection that stops intruders even when they know your password. I'll explain how it works, why you need it, and how to set it up without making your daily log-in a hassle.

Read: How Two-Factor Authentication Works and Why You Need It Right Now

-

Should I Download Windows 10 Updates?

Should I Download Windows 10 Updates?
Oh, yes.

Windows 10 is past its end-of-support date, so why does Windows Update keep delivering updates? And should you keep taking them? My answer is a definite yes, and the reasons are more important than you might think.

Read: Should I Download Windows 10 Updates?

-

Recognizing and Avoiding Dark Patterns

Recognizing and Avoiding Dark Patterns
The dark side plays tricks.

Dark patterns are sneaky design tricks built to work against you. I'll break down some of the most common and show you what to watch for before you click.

Read: Recognizing and Avoiding Dark Patterns

Ask Leo! Tip of the Day

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Recognizing and Avoiding Dark Patterns

Dark patterns are sneaky design tricks built to work against you. I'll break down some of the most common and show you what to watch for before you click.

Watch: Recognizing and Avoiding Dark Patterns


What's My IP Address?

You might be sharing more than you think when you visit a website. Your IP address, your browser details, and even what you searched for to get there is all visible. I'll explain what websites see when you show up and why it matters.

Watch: What's My IP Address?


Should I Download Windows 10 Updates?

Windows 10 is past its end-of-support date, so why does Windows Update keep delivering updates? And should you keep taking them? My answer is a definite yes, and the reasons are more important than you might think.

Watch: Should I Download Windows 10 Updates?


What Is "Mailer-Daemon" and Why Is It Sending Me Email?

Get an email "from" mailer-daemon? There's a good reason this mysterious sender keeps showing up.

Watch: What Is "Mailer-Daemon" and Why Is It Sending Me Email?


How Two-Factor Authentication Works and Why You Need It Right Now

Your password alone might not be enough to keep hackers out. Two-factor authentication adds a second layer of protection that stops intruders even when they know your password. I'll explain how it works, why you need it, and how to set it up without making your daily log-in a hassle.

Watch: How Two-Factor Authentication Works and Why You Need It Right Now


 

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]]> #1119 – How I Use AI at Ask Leo! https://newsletter.askleo.com/1119-how-i-use-ai-at-ask-leo/ Tue, 28 Apr 2026 15:00:46 +0000 https://newsletter.askleo.com/?p=9398 How I Use AI at Ask Leo!

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#1119 - How I Use AI at Ask Leo!

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On most Fridays I make it a habit to head out to a local brewpub (this one or this one) and hang out with friends over a couple of beers. Yes, technology is great and all that, but there's truly no substitute for that in-person experience. Not even AI will replace that. After the last few years of, well, everything, that I find myself saying "I need to be around people for a while" always surprises me, particularly since I identify as a hard core introvert.

Sometimes I even get to take Maxine with me. No beer for her, of course, but there are always treats and pets.

I hope you have a good week,

Leo

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This Week on Ask Leo!

How I Use AI at Ask Leo!

How I Use AI at Ask Leo!
It's my fast (but unreliable) intern.

Wonder whether an AI has written the articles you read online -- like this one? The answer at Ask Leo! is no, but AI does play a role. Here's a behind-the-scenes look at how AI helps me, where it falls short, and what a real human -- me -- still does.

Read: How I Use AI at Ask Leo!

-

How Two-Factor Authentication Works and Why You Need It Right Now

How Two-Factor Authentication Works and Why You Need It Right Now
It keeps hackers out.

Your password alone might not be enough to keep hackers out. Two-factor authentication adds a second layer of protection that stops intruders even when they know your password. I'll explain how it works, why you need it, and how to set it up without making your daily log-in a hassle.

Read: How Two-Factor Authentication Works and Why You Need It Right Now

-

Is It Safe to Let Your Browser Remember Passwords?

Is It Safe to Let Your Browser Remember Passwords?
The risk that's often overlooked.

Letting your browser remember passwords is convenient. With that convenience comes significant risk. Most folks are much better served by using a password vault.

Read: Is It Safe to Let Your Browser Remember Passwords?

-

My Computer Has Started to Shut Down Randomly. Could It Be the Fan?

My Computer Has Started to Shut Down Randomly. Could It Be the Fan?

Your computer keeps shutting down and is telling you "Over Temperature." The culprit might be hiding in plain sight: dust and pet hair. I'll show you how those innocent-looking dust bunnies can kill a computer, and what to do about it.

Read: My Computer Has Started to Shut Down Randomly. Could It Be the Fan?

-

How Can I Pin "Restart" to My Taskbar?

How Can I Pin "Restart" to My Taskbar?
It can be a single click away.

I'll show you how to put a one-click restart button right on your taskbar. The skills you'll pick up along the way are useful far beyond restarting.

Read: How Can I Pin "Restart" to My Taskbar?

Ask Leo! Tip of the Day

For Bronze patrons of Ask Leo!

TEH Podcast

TEH Podcast

Find the latest episode here.

Ask Leo! on YouTube

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My Computer Has Started to Shut Down Randomly. Could It Be the Fan?

Your computer keeps shutting down and is telling you "Over Temperature." The culprit might be hiding in plain sight: dust and pet hair. I'll show you how those innocent-looking dust bunnies can kill a computer, and what to do about it.

Watch: My Computer Has Started to Shut Down Randomly. Could It Be the Fan?


How Can I Pin "Restart" to My Taskbar?

I'll show you how to put a one-click restart button right on your taskbar. The skills you'll pick up along the way are useful far beyond restarting.

Watch: How Can I Pin "Restart" to My Taskbar?


How Should I Wipe My Windows Hard Drive Before Giving It Away?

Giving away your old computer is a great idea, but handing over your personal data along with it is not. I'll show you the difference between a wipe that works and one that just looks like it does.

Watch: How Should I Wipe My Windows Hard Drive Before Giving It Away?


How I Use AI at Ask Leo!

Wonder whether an AI has written the articles you read online -- like this one? The answer at Ask Leo! is no, but AI does play a role. Here's a behind-the-scenes look at how AI helps me, where it falls short, and what a real human -- me -- still does.

Watch: How I Use AI at Ask Leo!


Is It Safe to Let Your Browser Remember Passwords?

Letting your browser remember passwords is convenient. With that convenience comes significant risk. Most folks are much better served by using a password vault.

Watch: Is It Safe to Let Your Browser Remember Passwords?


 

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]]> #1118 – Why Can’t I Paste a Password Into This Site’s Password Field? https://newsletter.askleo.com/1118-why-cant-i-paste-a-password-into-this-sites-password-field/ Tue, 21 Apr 2026 15:00:05 +0000 https://newsletter.askleo.com/?p=9392 Why Can't I Paste a Password Into This Site's Password Field?

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#1118 - Why Can't I Paste a Password Into This Site's Password Field?

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I had the privilege of presenting to the Sun City Center Computer Club recently about Windows 10, end of support, and similar topics. They graciously allowed me to record the session; you'll find it listed below as an extra item this week.

I'm also closing in on completion of my Linux for Everyone course.

The two (Windows 10 end of support, and my Linux course) aren't really related, and yet they are. There's been a lot of interest expressed in in Linux in recent months for a variety of reasons. If you've been "Linux curious", the course may help you decide, or even switch. It's 95% complete, so you still have a chance to influence what else I might add to it. Smile

I hope you have a good week,

Leo

This Week on Ask Leo!

Why Can

Why Can't I Paste a Password Into This Site's Password Field?
A case of misguided security.

You've got a password manager and you've done everything right. Then you encounter some website that won't let you paste your password. It's maddening. And here's the kicker: whoever designed it that way actually made the site *less* secure.

Read: Why Can't I Paste a Password Into This Site's Password Field?

-

How Do I Hack Someone

How Do I Hack Someone's Account? How Do I Hack My Own?
Tempting as it might be, don't.

Someone's cheating on you, or maybe you just lost access to your own account. Either way, you want to hack in. Before you go looking for help in all the wrong places, let me share the truth about hacking accounts.

Read: How Do I Hack Someone's Account? How Do I Hack My Own?

-

Should I Set Up Two Partitions on My Hard Disk?

Should I Set Up Two Partitions on My Hard Disk?
Maybe.

Does splitting your hard drive into two partitions make your computer faster and backups easier? I'll share my opinion on what partitioning really does and doesn't do, and what works better.

Read: Should I Set Up Two Partitions on My Hard Disk?

-

Is It Safe to Let Your Browser Remember Passwords?

Is It Safe to Let Your Browser Remember Passwords?
The risk that's often overlooked.

Letting your browser remember passwords is convenient. With that convenience comes significant risk. Most folks are much better served by using a password vault.

Read: Is It Safe to Let Your Browser Remember Passwords?

-

Why Can

Why Can't I Change My Email Address at Some Online Providers?
Bad decisions and bad programming, that's why.

Your email address changed, but the website where you have an account won't let you update it. Now what?

Read: Why Can't I Change My Email Address at Some Online Providers?

-

How Do I Clear Cookies for Just One Site?

How Do I Clear Cookies for Just One Site?
Taming misbehaving sites.

A website you use keeps misbehaving. Clearing cookies might fix it, but you don't want to lose your sign-ins everywhere else. Good news: your browser lets you clear cookies for just one site. I'll show you how.

Read: How Do I Clear Cookies for Just One Site?

-

What Does Windows 10 End of Support Really Mean?

What Does Windows 10 End of Support Really Mean?
A recorded presentation to the Sun City Center Computer Club

I was honored to have the opportunity to speak to the members of the Sun City Center Computer Club about Windows 10, as well as a smattering of additional topics.

Read: What Does Windows 10 End of Support Really Mean?

Ask Leo! Tip of the Day

For Bronze patrons of Ask Leo!

TEH Podcast

TEH Podcast

Find the latest episode here.

Ask Leo! on YouTube

Subscribe to Ask Leo! on YouTube.

Is It Safe to Let Your Browser Remember Passwords?

Letting your browser remember passwords is convenient. With that convenience comes significant risk. Most folks are much better served by using a password vault.

Watch: Is It Safe to Let Your Browser Remember Passwords?


Should I Set Up Two Partitions on My Hard Disk?

Does splitting your hard drive into two partitions makes your computer faster and backups easier? I'll share my opinion on what partitioning really does and doesn't do, and what works better.

Watch: Should I Set Up Two Partitions on My Hard Disk?


How Do I Clear Cookies for Just One Site?

A website you use keeps misbehaving. Clearing cookies might fix it, but you don't want to lose your sign-ins everywhere else. Good news: your browser lets you clear cookies for just one site. I'll show you how.

Watch: How Do I Clear Cookies for Just One Site?


Why Can't I Change My Email Address at Some Online Providers?

Your email address changed, but the website where you have an account won't let you update it. Now what?

Watch: Why Can't I Change My Email Address at Some Online Providers?


What Does Windows 10 End of Support Really Mean

A presentation to the Sun City Center Computer Club - https://www.scccomputerclub.org/

Watch: What Does Windows 10 End of Support Really Mean


Why Can't I Paste a Password Into This Site's Password Field?

You've got a password manager and you've done everything right. Then you encounter some website that won't let you paste your password. It's maddening. And here's the kicker: whoever designed it that way actually made the site *less* secure.

Watch: Why Can't I Paste a Password Into This Site's Password Field?


How Do I Hack Someone's Account? How Do I Hack My Own?

Someone's cheating on you, or maybe you just lost access to your own account. Either way, you want to hack in. Before you go looking for help in all the wrong places, let me share the truth about hacking accounts.

Watch: How Do I Hack Someone's Account? How Do I Hack My Own?


 

The post #1118 – Why Can’t I Paste a Password Into This Site’s Password Field? appeared first on Confident Computing - by Ask Leo!.

]]> #1117 – Set Up Windows 11 With Only a Local Account – Still Working in 2026 https://newsletter.askleo.com/1117-set-up-windows-11-with-only-a-local-account-still-working-in-2026/ Tue, 14 Apr 2026 15:00:17 +0000 https://newsletter.askleo.com/?p=9388 Set Up Windows 11 With Only a Local Account - Still Working in 2026

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#1117 - Set Up Windows 11 With Only a Local Account - Still Working in 2026

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In my reading/research for 7 Takeaways this week I came across an absolutely fascinating article: I Asked Claude Why It Won't Stop Flattering Me by Kristen French on a publication called Nautilus.

As the title implies, it's a) a "conversation" with the Claude AI chatbot, and b) it starts out addressing the reasons Claude, and presumably other AI's, love to flatter us. In reality the discussion goes much deeper, and I thought it was very insightful. It's something I recommend if you're at all interested in AI chatbots, and in particular if you're already having conversations with them.

I talk about it a tiny bit more in this week's 7 Takeaways, or you can just read the essay for yourself.

To quote Claude itself: "I have no stake in your actual well-being." That's something well worth remembering.

Have a good week,

Leo

This Week on Ask Leo!

Set Up Windows 11 With Only a Local Account - Still Working in 2026

Set Up Windows 11 With Only a Local Account - Still Working in 2026
It's possible, just well hidden.

Setting up Windows 11 without a Microsoft account is still possible.

Read: Set Up Windows 11 With Only a Local Account - Still Working in 2026

-

If Shutting Down Windows Cleanly Is So Important, What Happens When the Power Just Goes Out?

If Shutting Down Windows Cleanly Is So Important, What Happens When the Power Just Goes Out?
Usually nothing bad, but sometimes…

Power outages are a different problem than just flipping a switch, and your computer could pay the price.

Read: If Shutting Down Windows Cleanly Is So Important, What Happens When the Power Just Goes Out?

-

How Do I Run a Program "As Administrator"?

How Do I Run a Program "As Administrator"?
When you think you're the administrator, but you're not.

It's not trying to annoy you, it's an important part of keeping you safe. With an extra step or click, you can easily be the administrator when needed.

Read: How Do I Run a Program "As Administrator"?

-

How to Back Up Photos and Never Lose Them Again: the Steps You Need to Take

How to Back Up Photos and Never Lose Them Again: the Steps You Need to Take
Your photos are irreplaceable.

Your photos capture moments you can never get back, but one lost phone or crashed hard drive could wipe them out forever. Protecting them is easier than you think. Here's a simple plan to make sure your memories are never just one accident away from gone.

Read: How to Back Up Photos and Never Lose Them Again: the Steps You Need to Take

-

Should I Cover My Webcam When I

Should I Cover My Webcam When I'm Not Using It?
It does no harm, but is it really necessary?

Before you pull a "Zuck" and slap a sticky note over your camera, it's worth asking whether the threat is actually real.

Read: Should I Cover My Webcam When I'm Not Using It?

Ask Leo! Tip of the Day

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Find the latest episode here.

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Should I Cover My Webcam When I'm Not Using It?

Before you pull a "Zuck" and slap a sticky note over your camera, it's worth asking whether the threat is actually real.

Watch: Should I Cover My Webcam When I'm Not Using It?


How Do I Run a Program "As Administrator"?

It's not trying to annoy you, it's an important part of keeping you safe. With an extra step or click, you can easily be the administrator when needed.

Watch: How Do I Run a Program "As Administrator"?



How to Back Up Photos and Never Lose Them Again: the Steps You Need to Take

Your photos capture moments you can never get back, but one lost phone or crashed hard drive could wipe them out forever. Protecting them is easier than you think. Here's a simple plan to make sure your memories are never just one accident away from gone.

Watch: How to Back Up Photos and Never Lose Them Again: the Steps You Need to Take


 

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]]> #1116 – How to Protect Your Credit Card Information https://newsletter.askleo.com/1116-how-to-protect-your-credit-card-information/ Tue, 07 Apr 2026 15:00:38 +0000 https://newsletter.askleo.com/?p=9386 How to Protect Your Credit Card Information

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#1116 - How to Protect Your Credit Card Information

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Every so often I run into an offhand comment from someone -- usually someone experiencing networking problems -- that their data would move faster if it were instead carried by pigeons.

The official standards have you covered. You think I jest, but A Standard for the Transmission of IP Datagrams on Avian Carriers, published in 1990, is a detailed and formal specification for the use of carrier pigeons to carry internet traffic. Of course the protocol has high latency (aka it's slow), and subject to packet loss (addressed in an updated RFC2549: "Unintentional encapsulation in hawks has been known to occur, with decapsulation being messy and the packets mangled.")

The Wikipedia article has more on the topic.

I thought a fun way to start off April. (And yes, both RFC's were published on April 1 of their respective publication years Smile).

Have a good week,

Leo

This Week on Ask Leo!

How to Protect Your Credit Card Information

How to Protect Your Credit Card Information
An ongoing challenge, to be sure.

Your credit card info can be stolen in stores or online. From tap-to-pay to virtual card numbers, I'll walk you through the best ways to keep your credit card safe.

Read: How to Protect Your Credit Card Information

-

How Do I Change My Email Address?

How Do I Change My Email Address?
It seems simple, but there are ramifications.

Changing an email address changes a lot more than the address. I'll look at common scenarios and a few additional approaches.

Read: How Do I Change My Email Address?

-

How Can I Send a Document to Someone Securely?

How Can I Send a Document to Someone Securely?
Encrypt it.

Sending private documents by email feels risky because it is. What's the safest way to get sensitive information to the right person without it falling into the wrong hands?

Read: How Can I Send a Document to Someone Securely?

-

What Can a Technician With Remote Access Do?

What Can a Technician With Remote Access Do?
Anything.

You thought it was tech support, but it was a scam. You gave a stranger full access to your computer. How worried should you be?

Read: What Can a Technician With Remote Access Do?

-

How Do You Remove Bloatware?

How Do You Remove Bloatware?
My controversial position: don't waste your time.

Your new computer came loaded with software you never asked for. Before you reach for a debloating tool, here's my controversial take on what you should and shouldn't do about bloatware.

Read: How Do You Remove Bloatware?

Ask Leo! Tip of the Day

For Bronze patrons of Ask Leo!

TEH Podcast

TEH Podcast

Find the latest episode here.

Ask Leo! on YouTube

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How Can I Send a Document to Someone Securely?

Sending private documents by email feels risky because it is. What's the safest way to get sensitive information to the right person without it falling into the wrong hands?

Watch: How Can I Send a Document to Someone Securely?


What Can a Technician With Remote Access Do?

You thought it was tech support, but it was a scam. You gave a stranger full access to your computer. How worried should you be?

Watch: What Can a Technician With Remote Access Do?


How Do You Remove Bloatware?

- ?? Your new computer came loaded with software you never asked for. Before you reach for a debloating tool, here's my controversial take on what you should and shouldn't do about bloatware.

Watch: How Do You Remove Bloatware?


How to Protect Your Credit Card Information

Your credit card info can be stolen in stores or online. From tap-to-pay to virtual card numbers, I'll walk you through the best ways to keep your credit card safe.

Watch: How to Protect Your Credit Card Information


How Do I Change My Email Address?

Changing an email address changes a lot more than the address. I'll look at common scenarios and a few additional approaches.

Watch: How Do I Change My Email Address?


 

The post #1116 – How to Protect Your Credit Card Information appeared first on Confident Computing - by Ask Leo!.

]]> #1115 – What If My Passkey Doesn’t Work or I Lose the Device It’s On? https://newsletter.askleo.com/1115-what-if-my-passkey-doesnt-work-or-i-lose-the-device-its-on/ Tue, 31 Mar 2026 15:00:41 +0000 https://newsletter.askleo.com/?p=9384 What If My Passkey Doesn't Work or I Lose the Device It's On?

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#1115 - What If My Passkey Doesn't Work or I Lose the Device It's On?

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APRILSHOWERS is the coupon code for April. 20% off anything in the Ask Leo! Store as my way of saying "Thank you!" for being a subscriber.

This Week on Ask Leo!

What If My Passkey Doesn

What If My Passkey Doesn't Work or I Lose the Device It's On?
You do something else.

Passkeys are supposed to make signing in easier and safer, but what happens when it stops working or your device is gone? I'll show you what to do if your passkey fails or is lost and a technique that makes passkeys work everywhere.

Read: What If My Passkey Doesn't Work or I Lose the Device It's On?

-

What

What's the Difference Between Outlook, Outlook, and Outlook.com?
So many Outlooks. So much confusion.

Microsoft continues to confuse us with repetitive product names. I'll clarify the difference between Outlook, Outlook, and Outlook.com, and help you decide which you want.

Read: What's the Difference Between Outlook, Outlook, and Outlook.com?

-

How Do I Find Who Hacked My Email Account?

How Do I Find Who Hacked My Email Account?
TL;DR: You don't.

Someone hacked your email and you want answers. Who did it? Where are they? Can you track them down? Here's what you should do.

Read: How Do I Find Who Hacked My Email Account?

-

I Lost My Two-Factor Authentication Device. How Do I Recover?

I Lost My Two-Factor Authentication Device. How Do I Recover?
How to prove you're you without your second factor.

Losing your phone can lock you out of your accounts if it's your second factor for authentication. Here's how I recovered while traveling, the backup options that saved me, and the steps you can take now so you're never stuck without access.

Read: I Lost My Two-Factor Authentication Device. How Do I Recover?

-

How Do I Deal With Getting Someone Else

How Do I Deal With Getting Someone Else's Email?
Dealing with someone else's typos.

You didn't ask for it, but there it is: email meant for someone else in your inbox. I'll discuss why this happens and what you can do about it.

Read: How Do I Deal With Getting Someone Else's Email?

Ask Leo! Tip of the Day

For Bronze patrons of Ask Leo!

TEH Podcast

TEH Podcast

Find the latest episode here.

Ask Leo! on YouTube

Subscribe to Ask Leo! on YouTube.

How Do I Deal With Getting Someone Else's Email?

You didn't ask for it, but there it is: email meant for someone else in your inbox. I'll discuss why this happens and what you can do about it.

Watch: How Do I Deal With Getting Someone Else's Email?


What's the Difference Between Outlook, Outlook, and Outlook.com?

Microsoft continues to confuse us with repetitive product names. I'll clarify the difference between Outlook, Outlook, and Outlook.com, and help you decide which you want.

Watch: What's the Difference Between Outlook, Outlook, and Outlook.com?


What If My Passkey Doesn't Work or I Lose the Device It's On?

Passkeys are supposed to make signing in easier and safer, but what happens when it stops working or your device is gone? I'll show you what to do if your passkey fails or is lost and a technique that makes passkeys work everywhere.

Watch: What If My Passkey Doesn't Work or I Lose the Device It's On?


I Lost My Two Factor Authentication Device. How Do I Recover?

Losing your phone can lock you out of your accounts if it?s your second factor for authentication. Here?s how I recovered while traveling, the backup options that saved me, and the steps you can take now so you?re never stuck without access.

Watch: I Lost My Two Factor Authentication Device. How Do I Recover?


How Do I Find Who Hacked My Email Account?

Someone hacked your email and you want answers. Who did it? Where are they? Can you track them down? The truth probably isn't what you want to hear. Here's what you should do.

Watch: How Do I Find Who Hacked My Email Account?


 

The post #1115 – What If My Passkey Doesn’t Work or I Lose the Device It’s On? appeared first on Confident Computing - by Ask Leo!.

]]> #1114 – How Do I Uninstall Windows? https://newsletter.askleo.com/1114-how-do-i-uninstall-windows/ Tue, 24 Mar 2026 15:00:14 +0000 https://newsletter.askleo.com/?p=9380 How Do I Uninstall Windows?

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#1114 - How Do I Uninstall Windows?

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This Week on Ask Leo!

How Do I Uninstall Windows?

How Do I Uninstall Windows?
You can't. But you can do something else.

Stuck with a version of Windows you can't stand? You're not alone, and you're not trapped. "Uninstall" isn't a thing, but there are a few options you might not know about.

Read: How Do I Uninstall Windows?

-

Why Password Managers Are [Still] Safer than the Alternatives

Why Password Managers Are [Still] Safer than the Alternatives
Password vaults are the most secure solution.

If you're not using a password manager, you're likely compromising your security more than necessary. Here's why using one is safer.

Read: Why Password Managers Are [Still] Safer than the Alternatives

-

Why Doesn

Why Doesn't My Machine's IP Address Match What I'm Told on the Internet?
IP addresses versus IP addresses.

Ever wonder why your computer shows one IP address, but websites see something totally different? They're both right. I'll describe how your router juggles two addresses behind the scenes and how that protects you every time you go online.

Read: Why Doesn't My Machine's IP Address Match What I'm Told on the Internet?

-

Windows Administrator Explained

Windows Administrator Explained
Why you are and are not the administrator of your own computer.

Why will your computer sometimes tells you "access denied" when you're the only user? Windows has a system of administrator account types that are easy to misunderstand. I'll describe which type of account you likely have, and what the other options can and can't do.

Read: Windows Administrator Explained

-

What

What's a Zero-Day Attack? A Diagram of the Vulnerability Timeline
Infected before you know there's a risk.

Yes, your computer can get hacked even when it's fully updated. Zero-day attacks exploit vulnerabilities that your antivirus software doesn't yet know exist. I'll explain how these attacks work and what you can do to protect yourself.

Read: What's a Zero-Day Attack? A Diagram of the Vulnerability Timeline

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What's a "Zero-Day" Attack? A Diagram of the Vulnerability Timeline

Yes, your computer can get hacked even when it's fully updated. Zero-day attacks exploit vulnerabilities before anyone can fix them and before your antivirus knows to see it coming. I'll explain how these attacks work, and what you can do to protect yourself.

Watch: What's a "Zero-Day" Attack? A Diagram of the Vulnerability Timeline


Windows Administrator Explained

Why will your computer sometimes tells you "access denied" when you're the only user? Windows has a system of administrator account types that are easy to misunderstand. I'll describe which type of account you likely have, and what the other options can and can't do.

Watch: Windows Administrator Explained


Why Doesn't My Machine's IP Address Match What I'm Told on the Internet?

Ever wonder why your computer shows one IP address, but websites see something totally different? They're both right. I'll describe how your router juggles two addresses behind the scenes and how that protects you every time you go online.

Watch: Why Doesn't My Machine's IP Address Match What I'm Told on the Internet?


How Do I Uninstall Windows?

Stuck with a version of Windows you can't stand? You're not alone, and you're not trapped. "Uninstall" isn't a thing, but there are a few options you might not know about.

Watch: How Do I Uninstall Windows?


Why Password Managers Are [Still] Safer than the Alternatives

If you're not using a password manager, you're likely compromising your security more than necessary. Here's why using one is safer.

Watch: Why Password Managers Are [Still] Safer than the Alternatives


 

The post #1114 – How Do I Uninstall Windows? appeared first on Confident Computing - by Ask Leo!.

]]> #1113 – Don’t Fall for It: Social Engineering and How Scammers Hack Your Brain https://newsletter.askleo.com/1113-dont-fall-for-it-social-engineering-and-how-scammers-hack-your-brain/ Tue, 17 Mar 2026 15:00:46 +0000 https://newsletter.askleo.com/?p=9378 Don't Fall for It: Social Engineering and How Scammers Hack Your Brain

The post #1113 – Don’t Fall for It: Social Engineering and How Scammers Hack Your Brain appeared first on Confident Computing - by Ask Leo!.

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#1113 - Don't Fall for It: Social Engineering and How Scammers Hack Your Brain

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This Week on Ask Leo!

Don

Don't Fall for It: Social Engineering and How Scammers Hack Your Brain
How to recognize, avoid, and beat the scams.

Think you're too smart to fall for a scam? Think again. Scammers aren't targeting your intelligence; they're targeting your humanity. I'll share the sneaky mind tricks they use every day and help you spot the red flags before it's too late.

Read: Don't Fall for It: Social Engineering and How Scammers Hack Your Brain

-

How Do I Gain Administrative Access to a Secondhand Computer?

How Do I Gain Administrative Access to a Secondhand Computer?
Here be dragons. Maybe.

It's important to understand the risks of buying a used computer.

Read: How Do I Gain Administrative Access to a Secondhand Computer?

-

How Do I Tell Which Wi-Fi Protocols My Computer Supports?

How Do I Tell Which Wi-Fi Protocols My Computer Supports?
They keep changing.

Ever wondered if your Wi-Fi card can handle the latest speeds, or why it won't connect in certain places? I'll show you exactly how to check which Wi-Fi protocols your computer supports, and what those cryptic "802.11" labels actually mean.

Read: How Do I Tell Which Wi-Fi Protocols My Computer Supports?

-

Can I Have Different Passwords for YouTube and Gmail?

Can I Have Different Passwords for YouTube and Gmail?
Keeping services separate is possible, though not obvious.

A Google account includes Gmail, YouTube, and much more. If you want to keep those services separate, you'll need separate Google accounts.

Read: Can I Have Different Passwords for YouTube and Gmail?

-

How to Identify Your Machine

How to Identify Your Machine's Network Connections
There are probably many more connections than you expect.

Your computer might be chatting with hundreds of servers right now, including sites you might not expect, without you knowing! I'll show you free tools that let you see what your machine is up to online.

Read: How to Identify Your Machine's Network Connections

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Find the latest episode here.

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How To: Identify Your Machine's Network Connections

Your computer might be chatting with hundreds of servers right now, including sites you might not expect, without you knowing! I'll show you free tools that let you see exactly what your machine is up to online.

Watch: How To: Identify Your Machine's Network Connections


Can I Have Different Passwords for YouTube and Gmail?

A Google account includes Gmail, YouTube, and much more. If you want to keep those services separate, you'll need separate Google accounts.

Watch: Can I Have Different Passwords for YouTube and Gmail?


How Do I Tell Which Wi-Fi Protocols My Computer Supports?

Ever wondered if your Wi-Fi card can handle the latest speeds, or why it won't connect in certain places? I'll show you exactly how to check which Wi-Fi protocols your computer supports, and what those cryptic "802.11" labels actually mean.

Watch: How Do I Tell Which Wi-Fi Protocols My Computer Supports?


Don't Fall for It: Social Engineering and How Scammers Hack Your Brain

Think you're too smart to fall for a scam? Think again. Scammers aren't targeting your intelligence; they're targeting your humanity. I'll share the sneaky mind tricks they use every day and help you spot the red flags before it's too late.

Watch: Don't Fall for It: Social Engineering and How Scammers Hack Your Brain



 

The post #1113 – Don’t Fall for It: Social Engineering and How Scammers Hack Your Brain appeared first on Confident Computing - by Ask Leo!.

]]> #1112 – How Should I Format My Thumbdrive? https://newsletter.askleo.com/1112-how-should-i-format-my-thumbdrive/ Tue, 10 Mar 2026 15:00:10 +0000 https://newsletter.askleo.com/?p=9376 How Should I Format My Thumbdrive?

The post #1112 – How Should I Format My Thumbdrive? appeared first on Confident Computing - by Ask Leo!.

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#1112 - How Should I Format My Thumbdrive?

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All the ways to Support Ask Leo!
 

This Week on Ask Leo!

How Should I Format My Thumbdrive?

How Should I Format My Thumbdrive?
Let's look at three options.

Looking to format a USB thumb drive but confused about FAT32, exFAT, and NTFS? I'll break down each file system's strengths and limitations and help you choose the best format based on compatibility needs, file sizes, and which devices you'll use it with.

Read: How Should I Format My Thumbdrive?

-

Are Deleted Emails Really Deleted?

Are Deleted Emails Really Deleted?
You might think so, but…

Deleted an email and think it's gone forever? I'll explain what "delete" really means in webmail and desktop programs, why trash folders and database files can leave messages recoverable, how backups and even court orders can bring them back, and the inconvenient fact that the other person may still have a copy.

Read: Are Deleted Emails Really Deleted?

-

OK, Boomer: Why Computer Literacy Matters to You

OK, Boomer: Why Computer Literacy Matters to You
Yes, you.

Technology isn't optional anymore. I'll explain why embracing computer literacy matters more than ever, and how complaining only isolates you further.

Read: OK, Boomer: Why Computer Literacy Matters to You

-

Can You Get Hacked When Your Computer Is Sleeping?

Can You Get Hacked When Your Computer Is Sleeping?
It depends. It's also extremely unlikely.

Worried your sleeping computer might get hacked? The short answer is no, but there's a catch. I'll explain what that is and why you're still probably safer than you think with basic security in place.

Read: Can You Get Hacked When Your Computer Is Sleeping?

-

How Do I Sign in to Windows If My Keyboard Doesn

How Do I Sign in to Windows If My Keyboard Doesn't Work?
Here's one way.

Keyboard not working, but you need to type to sign in to Windows? There's a solution for that.

Read: How Do I Sign in to Windows If My Keyboard Doesn't Work?

Ask Leo! Tip of the Day

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Ask Leo! on YouTube

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How Do I Sign In to Windows if My Keyboard's Not Working?

Keyboard not working, but you need to type to sign in to Windows? There's a solution for that.

Watch: How Do I Sign In to Windows if My Keyboard's Not Working?


Can You Get Hacked When Your Computer Is Sleeping?

Worried your sleeping computer might get hacked? The short answer is no, but there's a catch. I'll explain what that is and why you're still probably safer than you think with basic security in place.

Watch: Can You Get Hacked When Your Computer Is Sleeping?


OK, Boomer: Why Computer Literacy Matters to You

Technology isn't optional anymore. I'll explain why embracing computer literacy matters more than ever, and how complaining only isolates you further.

Watch: OK, Boomer: Why Computer Literacy Matters to You


How Should I Format My Thumbdrive?

Looking to format a USB thumb drive but confused about FAT32, exFAT, and NTFS? I'll break down each file system's strengths and limitations and help you choose the best format based on compatibility needs, file sizes, and which devices you'll use it with.

Watch: How Should I Format My Thumbdrive?


Are Deleted Emails Really Deleted?

Deleted an email and think it?s gone forever? I'll explain what ?delete? really means in webmail and desktop programs, why trash folders and database files can leave messages recoverable, how backups and even court orders can bring them back, and the inconvenient fact that the other person may still have a copy.

Watch: Are Deleted Emails Really Deleted?


 

The post #1112 – How Should I Format My Thumbdrive? appeared first on Confident Computing - by Ask Leo!.

]]> #1111 – What Do I Do If I’m Being Harassed, Bullied, or Stalked Online? https://newsletter.askleo.com/1111-what-do-i-do-if-im-being-harassed-bullied-or-stalked-online/ Tue, 03 Mar 2026 16:00:56 +0000 https://newsletter.askleo.com/?p=9373 What Do I Do If I'm Being Harassed, Bullied, or Stalked Online?

The post #1111 – What Do I Do If I’m Being Harassed, Bullied, or Stalked Online? appeared first on Confident Computing - by Ask Leo!.

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#1111 - What Do I Do If I'm Being Harassed, Bullied, or Stalked Online?

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IDES is the coupon code for March. 20% off anything in The Ask Leo! Store as my way of saying "Thank You!" for being a newsletter subscriber.

This Week on Ask Leo!

What Do I Do If I

What Do I Do If I'm Being Harassed, Bullied, or Stalked Online?
Online harassment is rampant. Here's what you need to know.

Online harassment can happen to anyone, but what can you actually do about it? I'll break down whether it's illegal, how to identify who's behind it, ways to make it stop, and the critical mistakes to avoid so you can protect yourself and your loved ones.

Read: What Do I Do If I'm Being Harassed, Bullied, or Stalked Online?

-

Dealing With Video Starts and Stops While Watching: Three Common Causes and Three Possible Solutions

Dealing With Video Starts and Stops While Watching: Three Common Causes and Three Possible Solutions
What to check for, and what to try.

There are common causes, and sometimes simple solutions, for a video that starts and stops as you watch it.

Read: Dealing With Video Starts and Stops While Watching: Three Common Causes and Three Possible Solutions

-

Why Am I Being Asked for Additional Verification on Sign-in?

Why Am I Being Asked for Additional Verification on Sign-in?
It can be very frustrating.

Traveling and suddenly locked out of Outlook.com? I'll explain why Microsoft asks for extra sign-in proof, what "something unusual" really means, and how to set up backup email, phone, or authenticator options before you leave so you can get your code and your account back when it matters most.

Read: Why Am I Being Asked for Additional Verification on Sign-in?

-

How Does Cloud Storage Work?

How Does Cloud Storage Work?

Cloud storage sounds mysterious, but it's really just your files living on someone else's online computer. Let's look at how synchronization moves your changes between devices, why it can feel like backup, and the big catch: deletes spread everywhere too.

Read: How Does Cloud Storage Work?

-

Before You Click: 3 Quick Checks for a Suspicious Website

Before You Click: 3 Quick Checks for a Suspicious Website
Dates, location, history.

Found a website you've never heard of and not sure you should click? I'll show you three fast clues -- domain dates, server location, and site history -- that can help you judge whether a site feels trustworthy or sketchy before you commit.

Read: Before You Click: 3 Quick Checks for a Suspicious Website

Ask Leo! Tip of the Day

For Bronze patrons of Ask Leo!

TEH Podcast

TEH Podcast

Find the latest episode here.

Ask Leo! on YouTube

Subscribe to Ask Leo! on YouTube.

Before You Click: 3 Quick Checks for a Suspicious Website

Found a website you?ve never heard of and not sure you should click? I'll show you three fast clues -- domain dates, server location, and site history -- that can help you judge whether a site feels trustworthy or sketchy before you commit.

Watch: Before You Click: 3 Quick Checks for a Suspicious Website


How Does Cloud Storage Work?

Cloud storage sounds mysterious, but it?s really just your files living on someone else?s online computer. Let's look at how synchronization moves your changes between devices, why it can feel like backup, and the big catch: deletes spread everywhere too.

Watch: How Does Cloud Storage Work?


Why Am I Being Asked for Additional Verification on Sign-in?

Traveling and suddenly locked out of Outlook.com? I'll explain why Microsoft asks for extra sign-in proof, what ?something unusual? really means, and how to set up backup email, phone, or authenticator options before you leave so you can get your code and your account back when it matters most.

Watch: Why Am I Being Asked for Additional Verification on Sign-in?


What Do I Do If I'm Being Harassed, Bullied, or Stalked Online?

Online harassment can happen to anyone, but what can you actually do about it? I'll break down whether it's illegal, how to identify who's behind it, ways to make it stop, and the critical mistakes to avoid so you can protect yourself and your loved ones.

Watch: What Do I Do If I'm Being Harassed, Bullied, or Stalked Online?



 

The post #1111 – What Do I Do If I’m Being Harassed, Bullied, or Stalked Online? appeared first on Confident Computing - by Ask Leo!.

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