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    Windows 11 users, beware: A recent update has been causing constant reboots

    RapidEye/Getty Images Microsoft has issued a warning to Windows 11 users over a recent optional software update that has been causing multiple problems. The company says patch KB5043145 is causing some computers to restart many times in a constant loop, and in some cases, become unresponsive. In the cases where the computer is unresponsive, the […] More

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    Sick of ads on Android? Change these 5 settings for more privacy – fast

    Maria Diaz/ZDNETIf there’s one thing that bothers me in this modern era, it’s advertising. I understand companies have to pay the bills, but sometimes ads can become a bit much. Even worse, some ads feel like a breach of privacy. Some apps create profiles of you to target their ads better. Click on one thing in an app, and suddenly, you’re inundated with ads for similar products. It’s downright spooky; sometimes it feel like I simply thought of something, and then next thing you know, I’m seeing an ad for it.Also: The best Android phones to buy in 2024Fortunately, there are a few settings you can change to avoid ads. 1. Turn off ad topics Ad topics are based on the apps you’ve recently used and make it possible for those apps to personalize the ads you see. If you choose to leave Ad topics on, you can always block topics that aren’t of interest. To block topics, you’ll have to wait until various apps start collecting data on you. I immediately disable this feature as soon as I get a new Android phone because I don’t want apps to create a profile on me for targeted ads. To disable Ad topics, go to Settings > Privacy > Ads > Ad Privacy > Ad topics. On the resulting window, tap the On/Off slider for “Allow ad topics” until it’s in the Off position. More

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    I’ve weathered a lot of hurricanes – these 8 apps and websites are my must-have storm tools

    Jason Perlow/ZDNETLiving in South Florida means that hurricanes are a regular part of my life. Through experience, I’ve learned that preparing for a storm is more than just stocking up on supplies — it’s also about having the right data and tools available. As a technology professional who’s weathered multiple hurricanes since moving to the state in 2012, I’ve become passionate about tracking storms. I make it a point to stay 7 to 10 days ahead, closely monitoring every model and update as a storm develops and strengthens. Also: The best VPN services: Expert tested and reviewedHere’s an overview of the apps and websites that I rely on to stay ahead of the storms. Essential websites1. NOAA National Hurricane Center  More

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    The journey to fully autonomous AI agents and the venture capitalists funding them

    zf L/Getty Images The term “agentic AI,” or “artificial intelligence agents,” is rapidly becoming commonplace, so much so that those invested in the technology see a need to draw distinctions.  In a series of blog posts published last week, partners at venture capital firm Menlo Ventures, (which has bankrolled startups in artificial intelligence such as Anthropic), […] More

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    Google’s new Workspace password policy starts today: How to know if you’re affected

    Sjoerd van der Wal/Getty Images Are you still connecting to your Google Workspace with an older protocol — like CalDAV, CardDAV, IMAP, or POP? We recommend you make some changes to your account ASAP. In changes that go into effect starting today, Google Workspace will no longer support these antiquated protocols. Connecting via Google Sync […] More

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    Apple’s AirTag 4-Pack is $20 off right now ahead of October Prime Day

    Maria Diaz/ZDNETAs Amazon’s October Prime Day approaches, discounts on our favorite products appear. Apple’s AirTags 4-Pack is one of those products that I love so much that I have to share with everyone, especially when it’s on sale. Also: The best October Prime Day deals live nowI use AirTags to track wallets, keys, remote controls, and even my young kids. Over the past few years, AirTags have become this iPhone user’s go-to tracking device since they’re easy to use, small enough to slip in a bag or wear, and extremely reliable. And because there are so many aftermarket cases and holders made for AirTags, you can use them to track anything, including your bike, luggage, and car.Right now, you can buy an AirTag 4-Pack for $80 on Amazon More