Solving Common Tech Headaches

The Unsubscribe Maze: Spotting ‘Dark Patterns’ That Trick You Into Subscriptions or Hidden Fees

Have you ever signed up for a seemingly innocent “free 7-day trial” to read a single article about gardening, only to discover that canceling the trial requires a blood sacrifice, a treasure map, and a notarized letter delivered by a…

I Gave My Bank Account Number to a Scammer: What to Do Right Now

By Chris Clark, founder of Senior Tech Cafe “I gave my bank account number to a scammer.” If that’s you, call your bank’s fraud department first, using the number on the back of your card or on your statement. An…

Did My Netflix Expire? Spotting Phony Subscription Renewal Emails

Picture this: It’s 7:00 PM. You’ve just microwaved a pristine bag of popcorn, settled into your favorite armchair, and mentally prepared to watch four consecutive episodes of a British baking competition. But before you can grab the remote, your tablet…

The ‘Too Good to Be True’ Investment: Recognizing Investment Scams That Promise Fast Riches

By Chris Clark, founder of Senior Tech Cafe Investment scams are schemes that talk you into handing over money for an investment that doesn’t exist, usually with a promise of big, guaranteed returns and a reason you have to act…

Does Social Security Call You? How to Tell the Real Government From the Phonies

By Chris Clark, founder of Senior Tech Cafe Does Social Security call you? Sometimes, yes. Social Security does call people it already has business with, such as someone who recently applied for benefits. What it never does is call out…

When Love Asks for Money: Common Excuses in Online Romance Scams (and How to Say No)

You finally met someone wonderful online. They are charming, they appreciate your witty banter, and they actually ask about your day. They don’t even mind that your dog snores louder than a freight train. For a few weeks, everything is…