Tech Q&A: How to protect your email from hackers

Illustration file picture (REUTERS/Kacper Pempel).

Q: All the news about hacking has started to freak me out. Did the hackers use a sophisticated attack to go after John Podesta’s email?

A: No, they did not. These hackers apparently used one of the oldest tricks in the book. Podesta allegedly received an email that alerted him, “Someone has your password.” It was a classic phishing email that enticed him to hand over his new password to the hackers at a bogus site. He could have avoided the whole mess by setting up basic security on his account. Click here for more about the hacking and the steps you should take now, so you don’t become a victim.

Q: I have two pre-teens and just purchased an Apple TV. I’m new to this kind of viewing. Is there a way to censor what they watch?

A: Yes, you can adjust the settings so that your children aren’t exposed to mature content based on film or age ratings. With Apple TV, it’s simple to set up. From the main menu, go to Settings > General > Restrictions. The system will ask you for a four-digit passcode so that your kids can’t switch it off without you knowing. It’s just as easy to turn off the restrictions when the youngsters are in bed and you have a hankering for “Game of Thrones.” Many people don’t know that with the right apps, you can turn your TV into a classic art display or earth viewing station. It’s very cool! Click here for three apps that you’ll love on your Apple TV.

Q: I finally finished my novel, and I want to test it out as an ebook. I’m thinking of putting it on Kindle, but I’m not sure if it’s a good deal. Any suggestions?

A: Many authors are publishing ebooks because they’re economical and easy to distribute. You can often reach a global audience within 24 hours. KDP is Amazon’s ebook self-publishing service, and it’s very powerful. As always, make sure to read the contract carefully, but the deal is pretty good: You can publish through Kindle exclusively and earn up to 70 percent royalties, or you can publish through Kindle and other services, like Apple’s iBooks, and earn up to 30 percent royalties. Of course, there is much more to know. Click here for a step-by-step guide to publishing your ebook and making money at it.

Q: I love my iPhone, but my husband loves Android. I am in the market for a new car but I only want a car with Apple CarPlay. Who manufactures cars that have Apple CarPlay?

A: Apple CarPlay automatically syncs a car with an iPhone. It lets you use certain apps through an in-dash display, rather than on the phone itself. In fact, the system syncs up to the designated phone without having to remove it from your purse or pocket. You can get directions, make phone calls, send and receive messages, and listen to music. Apple CarPlay is included in a slew of cars from Acura to Volvo. Click here for a complete list of cars with Apple CarPlay for you and Android Auto for your husband.

Q: I am a tattoo artist. I saw the Facebook Live videos of your show. I would like to show Facebook live videos of my work. How do I get started?

A: Live-streaming is the new way to express yourself and show the world what’s going on in your life. Using a smartphone or tablet, your circle of friends, family, customers, business associates or fans see you in live video and audio over the internet. Open the Facebook app on your smartphone or tablet. Go to your profile and open up the status bar. You’ll see the “What’s on my mind?” prompt and towards the bottom, select “Live Video.” From there, it’s a series of steps that I have written up in detail. Click here to learn how to use Facebook Live as well as insider secrets for promoting it and getting the best-looking videos.

Want more good advice? Be sure to listen or download my podcasts, or click here to find it on your local radio station. You can listen to the Kim Komando Show on your phone, tablet or computer. From buying advice to digital life issues, click here for my free podcasts.

Learn about all the latest technology on the Kim Komando Show, the nation's largest weekend radio talk show. Kim takes calls and dispenses advice on today's digital lifestyle, from smartphones and tablets to online privacy and data hacks. For her daily tips, free newsletters and more, visit her website at Komando.com.