BlueScreen Computer

09/25/2026

I should also rerun this post, since the time is nigh for Publisher to be laid to rest:

Microsoft Publisher Retires in October 2026, you should prepare for this change if you are a big Publisher user.

09/25/2026

Just a rerun of my post with the foliage maps:

https://bluescreencomputer.com/2021/10/03/fall-foliage-prediction-maps/

Happy Fall, y'all!

There are great fall foliage prediction maps out there, to help you with your travel and planning this autumn!

09/21/2026

Did you buy an iPhone 16 or an iPhone 15 Pro between 6/10/2024 and 3/29/2025? If so, you could get some money back from this recent settlement:

The Siri AI Settlement is now open. If you bought an iPhone 16 or 15 Pro between 6/10/24 and 3/29/25, sign up for your share!

09/10/2026

Does anyone still use websites to send email invitations, legitimately? I feel like I only ever see the phishing fakes...

Invitation Phishing is so very prevalent in 2026. I need to be wary of any unexpected invitation email, even if it looks legit and fun.

09/06/2026

Anyone else bothered by the clutter on your Lock Screen?

09/05/2026

This is a solid, informative read about scams, created by Associated Press and Frontline PBS:
https://apnews.com/article/scams-online-scams-ai-internet-safety-phishing-fraud-34517de3546d604e20c9d78d3dc5af4f
As a companion piece, also check out this multimedia presentation:
https://apnews.com/projects/inside-the-scam/

Education is the best defense against this kind of crime, so please explore all of this good information. And if you already know-it-all, then find someone you care about who might be susceptible, and learn 'em good.

Follow scams as they unfold — and examine tactics used to manipulate victims.

09/03/2026

Shentel is starting to offer a prepaid internet, called Shentel Flex. I just chatted with one of their reps, to get some basic info:

Shentel Flex is not for everyone. If you have Shentel phone or TV services, you are not eligible for Flex. You would consider Flex for a residence that needs ONLY internet access.

The internet speeds and equipment are different with Flex. You can check out the pricing at https://www.shentel.com/en/prepaid .

If you are a current postpaid Shentel customer, you could switch... But that would involve stopping your existing internet service, and scheduling to have a tech come out to setup the new service. Installation of Flex is free, but may involve a different (free) wifi modem from Shentel. Old rented internet equipment would need to be returned to Shentel.

I think most people should sit tight with their classic, postpaid Shentel internet. But if you are a snowbird and only need basic internet in your home for a few months a year, Flex might be worth you looking into. Also, if you manage AirBnBs or other short-term rentals, Flex might save you some money. Call Shentel with any detailed questions: 1-800-SHENTEL

08/26/2026

To give this more perspective, please know that Meta's 2025 revenue was over $200 Billion.

The social media giant settled with 47 states, the District of Columbia and U.S. territories, and agreed to make major changes to its products over claims its platforms endangered children.

08/21/2026

The jury duty/arrest warrant scam calls are making a resurgence. This can really catch people off-guard, if you aren't aware of how this scheme works.
https://bluescreencomputer.com/2023/05/19/arrest-warrant-court-scams/
And this doesn't just target the elderly. Younger adults, who have less experience with the police and court system, may fall for this. Talk to your friends and family, and search YouTube or TikTok for "jury duty scam" if you want some recent examples to learn from.

Don't be scammed by someone claiming you'll be arrested for criminal charges, unless you pay up! This is a common scheme to steal your money!