DarkHorse IT
The 3-2-1 Backup Rule: The Simple Way to Protect Your Data
Every Thursday morning on KFGO, we talk about real-world technology topics that affect your home, your family, and your business. This week’s…
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Still Using a Fax in 2026? Here Are Simple Tools That Actually Work (And When Not to Use Them)
On our weekly KFGO tech segment, we often talk about technology that people assume is obsolete but still shows up everywhere. Faxing…
New Year, Stronger Security
5 IT Security Resolutions Everyone Can Make in the New Year During this week’s KFGO tech segment, we leaned into the timing.…
Windows Power User Tips: Keyboard Shortcuts That Save You Time
Every Thursday morning on KFGO, we talk about simple ways to make technology work better for you. This week’s segment focused on…
Is Your Home Participating in Botnet Activity?
Every Thursday morning on KFGO we talk about practical tech tips that matter in everyday life. This week we dug into something…
Organizing Your Digital Life: Photos, Passwords & Storage
Each week on the KFGO Tech Segment, we talk about practical ways to make technology work for you — not against you.…
Happy Thanksgiving: The Tech We’re Thankful For This Year
Each Thursday morning, we talk tech with KFGO listeners, and since it’s Thanksgiving, it felt like the perfect time to highlight the…
Three Quick Online Checks to See If You’ve Been Compromised
Each Thursday morning on KFGO, we talk about simple ways to stay safer online. This week, I covered three free tools you…
What Does DarkHorse IT Actually Do?
What Does Dark Horse IT Actually Do? At Dark Horse IT, we break our services into two main areas: business and residential.…
🔐 The New Password Best Practices (According to NIST 2025)
Here’s the new way to think about passwords: 💼 Why I Recommend Bitwarden At DarkHorse IT, we recommend Bitwarden because it’s open…
🎃 Spooky Scams and Tech Tricks: How to Stay Safe from the Real Monsters Online
By Jeff Carney, DarkHorse IT It’s the season of ghosts and goblins — but the scariest creatures aren’t hiding under your bed.…
AI Browsers Are Now A Thing: OpenAI’s Atlas Joins Perplexity’s Comet
If you tuned in to our KFGO Tech Thursday segment, you saw this coming: AI browsers are here. A few weeks ago…
Which Web Browser Really Protects Your Privacy? A Real-World Test
This week on our KFGO Tech Talk, we dove into something that affects all of us — how much your browser really…
How to Back Up or Sync Your Phone Photos
Introduction On this week’s KFGO Tech segment, we talked about what to do with all those photos sitting on your phone. Between…
Preparing for Windows 10’s End‑of‑Life: options for staying secure
Microsoft will end mainstream support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, meaning the last free security patches will be released on that month’s “Patch…
How to Stop (or at Least Slow Down) Spam Calls and Texts
If you tuned into this week’s KFGO Tech Segment, we talked about something that frustrates nearly everyone: spam calls and texts. Whether…
Perplexity AI’s Big Move: A Free Year of Pro + Their New Comet Browser
On this week’s KFGO Tech Talk, we’re diving into one of the hottest names in AI right now: Perplexity AI. They’ve been…
Google: From Garage Glory to “Hack-Back?”—How the Hero of Search Became Today’s Most Debated Tech Giant
This week on our KFGO 7:40am Tech Talk, we dug into Google’s origin story, how it reinvented the browser, and why many…
How to Avoid Facebook Marketplace Vehicle Report Scams
If you tuned into my recent KFGO tech segment, you heard me talk about a scam that’s been making the rounds on…
Is Google’s New AI the Photoshop Killer? Meet Nana Banana, Google New AI image Editor.
Introduction:On this week’s KFGO Tech Talk, we dove into one of Google’s biggest updates yet—a new AI image editing model nicknamed Nano…
⚠️ Windows 11 Update Alert: This Patch Could Break Your PC – Here’s What to Do
A critical issue has emerged with the latest Windows 11 security update, and it’s serious enough to put your data and device…
ChatGPT’s New Agent Mode: What It Can Do and How to Get the Most Out of It
On this week’s KFGO tech segment, we dove into one of the most exciting new features from OpenAI: Agent Mode in ChatGPT.…
Keyboard Shortcuts That Make Everyday Computer Use Faster
In this week’s KFGO Tech Tip, we’re diving into one of the simplest ways to get more done on your computer: keyboard…
🧠 No Internet, No Problem: OpenAI’s Offline Model for Privacy and Preppers
On this week’s KFGO tech segment, we talked about something that blends modern AI with old-school self-reliance: OpenAI’s new offline model, GPT‑OSS…
Why Won’t My Printer Work? Common Fixes for Connectivity Problems
This week on KFGO, we tackled one of those frustrating tech issues that nearly everyone runs into: printer problems. Whether your printer…
Why Is My Computer So Slow? (And What You Can Do About It)
This week on our KFGO tech segment, we tackled a question we hear all the time: Why is my computer so slow?…
Salt Typhoon, Nation-State Hacking, and What You Can Do to Protect Yourself
Every Thursday on KFGO, we cover tech topics that matter to everyday people and local businesses. This week, we’re tackling something you’ve…
Beware WAVE Browser and Shady Software: What I’m Seeing on Local Computers
This week on the KFGO tech segment, I shared some things I’ve been seeing over and over as I help people in…
Freedom & Privacy: Our Favorite Digital Tools to Celebrate Independence Day
Every year on the Fourth of July, we celebrate the moment America declared independence from an oppressive government. It’s a good reminder…
Could a Hacker Walk Right Into Your Life? Here’s How To Not Be Their Next Victim.
“If a hacker wanted into your life right now—could they walk through the front door?” 🔓 Most people are just one click…
Skip the Driver Booster! How to Safely Update Your PC Drivers
At DarkHorse, we’ve been noticing a trend: more and more people are installing third-party driver update tools like Driver Booster, Super Updater,…
🕵️ Guess Who Got Caught Spying on Us All? Not TikTok—It’s Meta (Facebook & Instagram) and Yandex
While everyone is laser-focused on TikTok and its potential to share user data with China, a much quieter, sneakier breach of trust…
💡 Why Managed Services Make Sense (Even If You Hate Subscriptions)
Let’s be real for a second: subscriptions are everywhere. TV, music, groceries, even socks. So when someone suggests a subscription for your…
Is Your SSD on Its Last Legs? Here’s How to Check Before It’s Too Late
If your computer has been feeling sluggish lately or you’ve had it for several years, your solid-state drive (SSD) could be wearing…
Did You Know Your Devices Can Do This? Accessibility Tips Inside! 🎉
At DarkHorse IT, we’re always looking for ways to make technology more useful, approachable, and just plain easier for everyone. One of…
🚨 Is Your Router a Security Risk? FBI Warns of Outdated Devices Being Exploited
Recently, the FBI released a public service announcement that should make every homeowner and business owner sit up and take notice: your…
🚨 Windows 10 End of Life Is Coming – What Are Your Options?
📅 Mark your calendar: October 14, 2025. That’s the day Microsoft officially ends support for Windows 10. No more security updates, patches,…
Why You Might Want to Run AI Locally — And How to Do It
Artificial Intelligence is no longer just a buzzword—it’s become a daily tool for businesses, students, and hobbyists alike. But most people are…
Coming Soon! Thundermail & Thunderbird Pro: Mozilla Is Building the Future of Private, Open-Source Email Services
At DarkHorse IT, we love seeing tech that aligns with our values—privacy, transparency, and putting the user first. That’s why we’ve always…
Everyday Security Tips: What We Do for Our Clients (And You Should Too!)
At DarkHorse IT, we’re big believers in making cybersecurity simple and approachable. Whether you’re working from home, running a small business, or…
Why Now Is a Good Time to Stop Using Google Chrome
And Why We’re Recommending Firefox (or Anything That Still Supports uBlock Origin) Let’s get straight to the point: Google Chrome has stopped…
📊 What Do All Those Computer Specs Really Mean? Let’s Break It Down 🛠️
You’re standing in an electronics store, looking at a row of computers. Every label seems to shout specs at you—“Intel i7!” “256GB…
McAfee, Norton, Webroot, and Trend Micro Are Outdated—Here’s What You Need Instead
For years, traditional antivirus software like McAfee, Norton, Webroot, and Trend Micro ruled the cybersecurity world. But as cyber threats continue to…
Avoiding the Risks of Online File Conversion: Safe Desktop Alternatives
With the increasing convenience of online file converters, it’s no wonder so many people use them. However, these sites can be dangerous.…
BleachBit: The Data Shredder So Good, Even Politicians Trust It 😉
There’s nothing quite like discovering a new piece of software by watching it make headlines in a political scandal. That’s exactly how…
Top 5 Simple Steps to Speed Up Your Slow Computer
Is your computer running at a snail’s pace? Before you consider replacing it, try these top 5 quick fixes to speed things…
The Tor Network: What It Is, How It Works, and Why People Use It
The internet you use every day—Google, Facebook, Amazon—is just the surface of a much larger digital world. Beneath that surface lies the…
Do You Need a VPN? Understanding the Different Types and Their Uses
In today’s digital world, privacy and security are more important than ever. One tool that can help protect your data and privacy…
Urgent Netgear Router Security Update – Patch Now & Secure Your Network!
If you own a Netgear Nighthawk gaming router, stop what you’re doing and update your firmware immediately. Netgear has released patches for…
Run AI Locally: Exploring DeepSeek and LM Studio for Private AI Chatbots
AI is evolving fast, and one of the biggest trends in 2024 is running AI models locally—without needing an internet connection. One…
The Power of RSS Readers: Simplify Your Knowledge and Stay Informed
In this week’s blog post, let’s dive into something that has completely changed how I consume information and stay up to date:…
Beware of Wave Browser: What You Need to Know About Your Web Browser
When I visit clients’ homes and offices, I often come across a mysterious web browser called Wave Browser installed on their computers.…
Windows 10 is Expiring: Is There a Free Alternative to Windows 11, I don’t want to buy a new computer.
As Windows 10 approaches its end-of-life this October, many users face a big decision: upgrade to Windows 11 or explore other options.…
Rapid-Fire Q&A with Jeff Carney: Get to Know the Man Behind DarkHorse IT
This week on KFGO, we took a different approach to IT advice—rapid-fire Q&A with Jeff Carney, the owner of DarkHorse IT. Jeff…
How to Safely Connect Your New IoT Devices Without Putting Your Network at Risk
🎁 The holidays are here, and many of us have unwrapped shiny new IoT (Internet of Things) devices. From smart toasters to…
Discover TinyWow: A Free Online Resource for PDFs, Images, Writing, and More
TinyWow is a powerful online resource. An online platform that offers a wide array of tools for handling PDFs, images, videos, writing,…
Computer Security News You Missed Because of the UnitedHealth CEO Assassination
While the tragic assassination of UnitedHealth CEO Andrew Witty gripped the nation, monumental advancements in the world of computer security and AI…
Ransomware: What to Do If You Get It and How to Avoid It
What is Ransomware, and Should You Be Concerned? Ransomware is the ultimate nightmare for anyone who values their data. This malicious software…
Speed Up and Secure Your Internet: A Thanksgiving Tech Tip from DarkHorse IT
Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at DarkHorse IT! As you reflect on the blessings in your life this season, why not…
Tech-Savvy Tips for Holiday Shopping and Shipping in 2024
The holiday season is the perfect time to leverage technology to save money, time, and avoid the hassle of long lines—especially at…
Looking for a Free Microsoft Office Alternative? Try LibreOffice
Microsoft Office has long been a staple in productivity software, but it’s not the only choice. For those seeking a powerful, fully-featured…
The Ultimate Guide to Backing Up Your Social Media Accounts
Social media has become an essential part of our lives, holding years of memories, messages, and shared experiences. Imagine losing access to…
One of Our Favorite Free Software Utilities. And of Course, a Security Alert: Critical Vulnerabilities Discovered in All Nvidia GeForce GPUs – Update Your Drivers Now!
Recently, Nvidia announced a serious security issue affecting all GeForce graphics card users. Several critical vulnerabilities were discovered in Nvidia’s display drivers,…
Data Breaches Fueling Advanced Email Scams: What You Need to Know
Data breaches are more than just a risk; they’ve become an almost constant threat. With massive leaks like the National Public Database…
What is Canva and Why You Should Consider Using It
If you’re looking for an easy way to create professional-looking designs without spending a fortune or hours learning complicated software, Canva is…
Is Your Professional Email Hitting the Mark? Test Your Email Reputation Now!
If you’re using a professional email with a custom domain, like @darkhorseit.com, you want to ensure your emails are being delivered where…
Title: Top 5 Cybersecurity Myths Busted: What You Really Need to Know to Stay Safe Online
In this blog post, we’re busting the top 5 cybersecurity myths we hear most often, so you can stay informed and protected!…
Buying a New or Used PC: What the Specs Mean and How to Choose Wisely
When shopping for a new or used PC, understanding the specs is crucial. Whether you’re after a new machine or a refurbished…
Protect Your Social Media from Hackers: There Is No 1-800 Number for Help
What happens if your social media account gets hacked? One of the most startling realizations is that there’s no 1-800 number to…
What Is the Wayback Machine and How Can You Use It?
What exactly is the Wayback Machine, and how can you use it to your advantage? Let’s dive in! What Is the Wayback…
How ChatGPT Can Simplify Your Life: Practical Uses and Tips
What is ChatGPT? ChatGPT is a virtual assistant that understands and responds to questions in plain language. It’s like having an all-in-one…
Faxing in 2024: How to Send a Fax Without a Fax Machine (Yes, It’s Possible!)
Faxing feels like one of those outdated technologies that belong in a museum next to the rotary phone and floppy disks. The…
Fixing the Spinning Beachball of Death in Macs and Slow PCs: Why Your Storage Might Be to Blame
If you’re a Mac user, you’ve probably encountered the dreaded “spinning beachball of death.” Or perhaps you’re a PC user who has…
Don’t Lose Control of Your Facebook Account to Hackers: Here’s How to Lock It Down
We’ve all heard the horror stories: a friend’s Facebook account gets hacked, scammers take over, and suddenly, their profile, pages, and groups…
Protecting Your Financial Future After the Social Security Hack
The recent Social Security hack has sent shockwaves across the nation, putting millions at risk of identity theft and financial fraud. National…
The 3-2-1 Rule for Backups: Best Practices to Keep Your Data Safe
In today’s digital age, data is one of the most valuable assets for both businesses and individuals. From irreplaceable family photos to…
Don’t Get Duped: Test Your USB Drive’s True Capacity with a free utility (ValiDrive)
Falling victim to counterfeit or fraudulent storage devices can be a nightmare. Imagine purchasing a 2TB drive at a great price, only…
NSA’s Best Practices for Securing Your Home Network
As our homes become increasingly connected, ensuring the security of our home networks is more critical than ever. The National Security Agency…
Boost Your Online Privacy: Disable Third-Party Cookies, Block Ads, and Evaluate Their Impact with Forensic Tools
Understanding Cookies Cookies are small pieces of data stored by your web browser that help websites remember information about your visit. They…
The Importance of Layered Security: Protecting Your Business in the Digital Age
In today’s interconnected world, the threat landscape is constantly evolving. Cyberattacks are becoming more sophisticated, targeting businesses of all sizes. To stay…
Urgent Security Alert: Internet Users at Risk Due to Compromised Polyfill.io
In recent days, our team at DarkHorse IT has been alerted to a significant cybersecurity threat affecting nearly everyone using the internet.…
Securing Your Smart Home: Best Practices for Connecting IoT Devices
The allure of smart devices in our homes is undeniable. From smart thermostats and security cameras to voice-activated assistants and smart refrigerators,…
Security Researchers Discover Another Vulnerability Similar to Last Week’s
Following the recent revelation and rapid exploitation of CVE-2024-30078, security researchers have discovered yet another critical vulnerability in the Windows operating system.…
Why It’s Critical to Update Your Windows Now: The Danger of CVE-2024-30078
In the realm of cybersecurity, vigilance is key. This past week, a particularly alarming vulnerability was revealed and patched during Microsoft’s latest…
The Importance of Firewalls: Why Your Home or Business Needs One
What is a Firewall? In today’s digital age, protecting your data is more critical than ever. A firewall is a security device…
Major Upcoming Privacy and Security Vulnerability to be Rolled Out by Microsoft
Microsoft is set to introduce a new feature called Copilot+ Recall in Windows 11, which is raising significant privacy and security concerns.…
How to Spring Clean Your Digital Life: Organizing Photos and Removing Duplicates
Spring is the perfect time to declutter, and that includes your digital life. One of the biggest culprits of digital clutter is…
Beware of Fake Virus Alert Scams: Protect Your Data and Finances
In today’s digital age, cybercriminals are constantly devising new ways to deceive users and steal their data. One common tactic is the…
Why is My Computer So Slow? Debunking Common Myths and Finding Real Solutions
It’s a common story: you buy a brand-new computer, and it’s blazing fast. But over time, it starts to slow down, and…
Optimizing Your WiFi: Choosing Between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Bands
In today’s hyper-connected world, a reliable and fast internet connection is more critical than ever. One of the fundamental decisions you can…
Protecting Your Email Domain: The Importance of DMARC, DKIM, and SPF
In the digital age, securing your email domain is as crucial as locking your doors at night. Without proper security measures, you’re…
Protecting Yourself from AI Scams: Essential Tips from DarkHorse IT
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming our world, offering innovative solutions in creativity, productivity, and problem-solving. However, its capabilities also extend to creating…
Bitwarden Setup & Usage Guide for Individual Users
Table of Contents Introduction Bitwarden is an open‑source password manager that keeps your login credentials, payment cards and secure notes encrypted on…
Staying Safe and Connected: Essential Wi-Fi Tips for Guests and Businesses
In today’s digital age, access to the internet is almost as necessary as any other utility. Whether you’re a guest at a…
Backups: What Is the Right Backup for You?
In today’s digital age, data loss is a real and daunting risk, whether it’s due to hardware failure, cyber-attacks, or just plain…
Is There a Security Concern When Donating, Selling, or Disposing of Old Smartphones and Computers?
In the age of rapid technological advancement, devices like smartphones and computers become obsolete at an unprecedented pace. Consequently, many of us…
This screenshot from our very own firewall shows us stopping multiple botnet connections in their tracks! If it can happen to us, it’s likely happening to you—most times, without any clue. 🛡️💡
What is a botnet? Think of it as a covert army, consisting of thousands, sometimes millions, of internet-connected devices. These devices are…
My Computer is Slow or Not Working Correctly: Repair or Replace?
Facing a sluggish or malfunctioning computer can be a source of frustration, leaving you wondering whether it’s time to shell out for…
Should We Pay for Antivirus Software?
In an age where digital threats are becoming more sophisticated and pervasive, the question of whether to invest in antivirus software is…
Protect Your Email: Your First Line of Cyber Defense
In today’s digital age, email is more than just a tool for communication; it’s the gateway to our online identity. From personal…