Take a look around your house. How much do you think you have spent on gadgets and tech subscriptions over the years?
With new shiny devices every day and one more streaming service to woo you, it’s hard to stop the flow of money. I can help. Tap or click for the best ways to scan without spending any money on a scanner. You are welcome.
A lot of high quality software is also free if you know where to look. Tap or click for 9 free copycats that work like a charm.
Before you pull your credit card out again, read through this list of mistakes that could cost you cash and simple fixes to help you spend less.
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The problem: you are tempted by this expensive new phone
Tech companies hail their new releases like no other. Hear what Apple has to say and the iPhone 13 will change your life. The same goes for the latest and greatest from Samsung and all of the rest.
Here is what it is not want to know: The changes to today’s new models are not that groundbreaking. The cameras are just a little better. There is a little more memory. Your battery might last a few hours longer. Big scream.
Will I buy the new iPhone? I doubt it. The iPhone 12 does everything I need. If you have a phone that’s only a generation or two old, you don’t have to buy anything new.
The solution: make your old phone look shiny and new again
Today you can get your device for several years. However, if your phone is more than a few months old, you will feel it.
I don’t mean the outside filth – although I’ve put together a smart guide on tidying up your tech. Tap or click here to make your screen shine without scratching it.
Also, take a few minutes to clean up your phone’s contents. Cached files, memes and screenshots, out of date contacts, and other digital clutter can be easily cleaned up if you are willing to invest a little time. Tap or click to see the steps on how to properly deep clean your phone.
Clever tips that you can trust: There are no operating instructions on the Internet. For digital tricks to get more out of your technology, Try my free tech tips newsletter.
The problem: You search up and down for voucher codes
There are terms that you should never search for on Google. Tap or click to avoid a list of 7. No, not because they’re embarrassing, but because they can put you at real risk. One of these terms is “coupon codes”.
You can land on a legitimate website and save a few dollars – but in all likelihood you won’t. At best, the codes won’t work and you’ve wasted a few minutes. Worst case scenario, you click on a malicious link and put your digital self in real danger.
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The solution: Rely on websites to do it for you
Instead of trying out code by code manually, download an app or browser extension that does all of the work.
Honey works like a charm. Once installed, it will search the web for valid promo codes and apply them directly to your shopping cart. Capital One Shopping shows side-by-side price comparisons from multiple retailers. Talk about a time saver.
Google Alerts can also help you identify offers and sales. When you think of a brand or website, set up a Google Alert.
- visit Google.com/alerts and enter the notification phrase. Use the brand name or brand name + discount / coupon / special offer as notification.
- Click on Show options to change settings for frequency, sources, language and region. You can also choose how many results you want and where to send them.
- click Create notification to receive notifications about your interests.
Don’t forget to sign up for your favorite brands or websites’ email newsletter. Follow them on social media. Discounts and specials are usually sent this way.
The problem: you’re trying to get a deal wrong
When was the last time you bought something from a seller on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or any of the many local selling apps? This is great for a piece of patio furniture or wall art. Think twice before buying your next phone, TV, or computer this way.
It’s easy to set up a burner account and list items. Even someone with a friendly profile photo and a local phone number could pay for a computer that they know is in trouble. For all the time and money spent looking for a bargain, you could end up with an expensive paperweight.
You need to shop carefully to make sure that what you are buying is worth your money.
The solution: play it safe with used equipment
Amazon extended sells remodeled and refurbished used items including laptops, smartphones, smartwatches, cameras, computers, monitors, power tools, and more. Amazon says all Renewed products are “tested and certified to work and look like new”. They can have some cosmetic imperfections, but most of the people who shop for used items don’t mind.
Products are guaranteed between 90 days and six months. If it stops working, you can return it or get a replacement. Make sure the product you purchase has the description “Backed by Amazon Renewed 90-Day Guarantee†in the description.
If you’re not an Amazon buyer or can’t find what you’re looking for, try eBay’s Certified Refurbished program. Items have a one- or two-year warranty and you can shop by condition, from good (moderate wear) to certified (pristine, like new). Tap or click for more information and a link to shop.
Bonus Tip: How the Government and Corporations Buy Your Personal Information
5 SMART DIGITAL LIFE HAKS THAT YOU HAVE ON TIKTOK. NOT FOUND
Check out my podcast “Kim Komando Explains” on Apple, Google podcasts, or your favorite podcast player.
We consider our gadgets to be helpful tools that make our lives easier, but they can also be used against us. The data collected from your devices is so valuable that it could be used in a criminal case against you, solicited by the police, or even bought by the government through a data broker. I sat down with technologist Bennett Cyphers of the Electronic Frontier Foundation who is revealing all of the secrets you lose – and which devices are most likely to steal.
Listen to the podcast here or wherever you can get your podcasts. Just look for my last name “Komando”.
What questions do you have about the digital lifestyle? 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, TV, or computer. Or tap or click to view Kim’s free podcasts.
Copyright 2021, WestStar Multimedia Entertainment. All rights reserved. By clicking the shopping links you are supporting my research. As an Amazon partner, I earn a small commission from qualified purchases. I only recommend products that I believe in.
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Find out more about the latest technology on The Kim Komando Show, the nation’s largest weekend radio talk show. Kim takes calls and offers advice on today’s digital lifestyle, from smartphones and tablets to online privacy and data hacking. For her daily tips, free newsletters, and more, visit her website at Komando.com.
