Ask Cappie the Computer Cat

ASK CAPPIE THE COMPUTER CAT Is Someone Spying on Me?

Is there anyway to know if my smartphone got hacked or if someone is spying on me via my phone? George from SCG

Dear George,

You did not mention if you have an Android or iPhone. Regardless of which operating system your smartphone uses, here are some basic things to check: n Your phone is suddenly sluggish and decreases performance for no apparent reason. Unless you recently downloaded an app that is a memory hog, you could be infected with malware or spyware. n There is a sudden drop in battery life for no apparent reason. Unexpected battery drains could mean someone is tracking your device. n Your phone overheats when in your pocket or when idle. If so, a spying app could be why. n Your phone randomly turns itself off. Again, a possible infection. n Some apps are showing that you know you did not download. This could be malware which often downloads and install apps on your smartphone without approval or knowledge. n You see outgoing texts and calls but did not send them, or unread emails marked as read, or pop ups appearing on the home screen. These are also signs of malware or spyware. If you believe you have been hacked or are being spied upon: n Delete all apps on your device that you do not recognize and only install apps from reputable developers. n Download a reputable mobile security app (check

PC Magazine, Tom’s Guide,

Tech Radar, etc. to see the latest ratings and how the app works) and run the app. n Spy apps require physical access to your device, so put a secure passcode on your phone so no one can access it to install a spy app. (Generally, spy apps are installed by someone close to you like a spouse, relative, or friend so choose a code that cannot be easily guessed). n Do not click on links in text messages, emails, or on social media sites. n Use secure, unique passwords and enable login notifications on key accounts so you are aware of sign-ins from new computers or locations.

Also enable two factor authentication so if your password is compromised, the hacker can’t get in without access to your phone. n Do not give real answers to security questions to reset your password that hackers could surmise from doing an internet search on you.

In other words, lie but keep the information in a safe place to access it when needed. n Do not use public wi-fi, especially if it involves banking or purchasing items online. Do not use public USB charging stations in locations such as airports and hotels. n If all else fails, you can restore your phone to factory settings and reinstall your data…but backup before restoring. Some basic tips Cappie suggests to not get hacked or spied upon in the first place: Do not download apps for your iPhone that are not available in the Apple Store or for the Android that are not in the Google Play Store. Do not jailbreak your iPhone, and if you have an Android, do not root your phone. These 2 terms essentially mean altering your phone operating system’s software and code to bypass the manufacturer’s software limitations so you can customize your device and download apps, themes, etc. from anywhere.

View the digital version of “Ask Cappie” monthly column by going to www. grandinfo.com. Click on the More News>Grand Lifestyles Magazine> to choose the month you want to view.

Special thanks to Jackie, for sending Cappie a lovely photo she took of her cat, Simba.

JULY FAMILY ACTIVITIES

Here are a few activities to get you moving. Each month, we are proud to provide GrandKids Corner, a varied list of activity options for you, our Residents, and your families.

Please visit the various websites for face mask and safety guidelines.

DESERT BOTANICAL GARDEN FLASHLIGHT TOURS

Desert Botanical Garden 1201 N. Galvin Parkway Phoenix, AZ

n Thru September 4, 2021 n Recurring weekly on Saturday n 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM n Price included with General Admission: $14.95 adults, $9.95 children n dbg.org/ Flashlight Nights are nighttime self-guided adventures through Desert Botanical Garden. Nocturnal explorers can bring their own flashlights to shine along the trails to capture the nightblooming plants and animals that appear in the desert after dark. Each evening of Flashlight Nights includes socially-distanced activities for all ages. Please bring your own flashlight from home.

PHOENIX RISING FC

Wild Horse Pass 19615 S. 48th St., Chandler

n Phoenix Rising vs. LA Galaxy II Jul 17, 2021 n Phoenix Rising vs. Rio Grande Valley FC Toros Jul 31, 2021 n www.phxrisingfc.com

Come cheer on the Phoenix Rising FC as they take on United Soccer League opponents all summer long at Casino Arizona Field. TALIESIN WEST

Taliesin West 12621 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd Scottsdale 85259

n Summer Hours: Thurs - Sun: 9:00 am - 9:30 am n Advance ticket reservations required. n Duration: 60 minutes n $40 adults | $30 students (13-25 with student ID) $19 youth (6-12) Members are free with advance reservations. n franklloydwright.org

Self-paced Audio Tour Without a Guide or a Group. Our “Guided by Wright” audio tour is a unique, multi-sensory experience using recordings of Wright’s own voice, along with narration from our professional tour guides.

Because you proceed without a group, this audio tour provides more peace of mind for health & safety, and self-paced freedom on the grounds. Visitors download an easy, free app on a personal smartphone device; headphones & devices are also available for guests at Taliesin West. POP! THE SCIENCE OF BUBBLES

Arizona Science Center 600 E. Washington St. Phoenix

n (602) 716-2000 n azscience.org n Thru January 29, 2023 n Recurring weekly n 10:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. n Advance ticket reservations are required.

This fun event is for all ages to learn, play, and make bubbles with wands of all sizes, giant bubbles created while you stand inside, a massive bubble drop every 15-20 minutes. Explore four levels of “handson” exhibits, the planetarium and a five story, giantscreen theater.

CAMP INNOVATION

Arizona Science Center 600 E. Washington St. Phoenix

n (602) 716-2000 n azscience.org n Advance ticket reservations are required.

CAMP INNOVATION is back offering both limited in-person and virtual options through July 31. Each 5-day camp session introduces kids to STEM and builds skills for youth through high-energy challenges, building, and design opportunities, and concept exploration.

WELCOME JULY

4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION

As we celebrate Independence Day this month, I want to wish you all a happy 4th of July, and I hope

Aly Cline that you join us at Council Member Mark Coronado Park for our 38th annual 4th of July Celebration! The event will feature live music and a selection of food trucks! Gates open at 6 p.m., but stick around for the fireworks display at approximately 8:40 p.m.! Admission is free with a canned food donation.

Visit surpriseaz.gov/specialevents for additional event information.

CONSERVE WATER

As our summer temperatures increase, we can all do our part to help conserve water, and the City of Surprise Water Resource Management team is here to help! Surprise offers water conservation education to help our residents find ways to conserve water. Did you know that 70% of residential water use occurs outdoors? One simple way you can help conserve water is by checking for leaks outdoors every month. If you would like to learn additional ways to conserve water, the City of Surprise and EPCOR water have partnered to provide a Hydrate the Valley series, which you can view at surpriseaz.gov/ waterconservation. Five topics are covered: Hydrate your Yard, Hydrate your Plants, Hydrate your Food, Hydrate your Solis, and Hydrate with Greywater. These presentations offer best practices to help you get the most out of your yard and conserve outdoor water use. The City will soon begin construction of a Xeriscape Demonstration Garden! The garden will be located at the southwest corner of Civic Center Drive and Paradise Lane. It will be a resource for residents, businesses, and homeowner associations to learn more about water conservation and native plants. Keep an eye on the City’s website for details as they become available.

FOR VETS If you are a veteran, Vetlink Foundation offers “Coffee with Vets” on the last Saturday of every month, beginning at Welcome to July! As we celebrate Independence Day this month, I want to wish you all a h 9 a.m. at the city’s AZ TechCelerator appy located at 12425 W. Bell Road. This 4th of July, and I hope that you join us at Mark Coronado Park for our 38th annual 4th of July Celebration! The event will feature live music and a selection of food trucks! Gates open at 6 p.m., but stick around for the fireworks display at approximately 8:40 p.m.! Admission is free with a canned food donation. Visit surpriseaz.gov/specialevents for additional event information. is a free event for veterans to socialize, As our summer temperatures increase, we can all do our part to help conserve water, and t connect and share with other veterans. he City of Surprise Water Resource Management team is here to help! education to help our residents find ways to conserve water. Surprise offers Each event has a guest speaker who water conservation will discuss a veteran-related topic. Did you know that 70% of residential water use occurs outdoors? One simple way you can help RSVP by calling 623.303.4355. Vetlink conserve water is by checking for leaks outdoors every month. If you would like to learn additional ways to conserve water, the City of Surprise and EPCOR water have partnered to provide a Hydrate the Valley series, which you can view at surpriseaz.gov/waterconservation Foundation is a non-profit organization . Five topics are covered: Hydrate your Yard, whose mission is to connect veterans Hydrate your and their families with free services and opportunities. I recently had Plants, Hydrate your Food, If you are looking for a way to stay cool, consider beating the heat this summer by checking out some of our great local businesses. Two recent openings are the Ohana Salon, located at 13980 W. Bel Road, and the new Saigon Kitchen Lounge, located at 14071 W. Bell Road. the opportunity to donate some of my discretionary funds to this great Hydrate your Solis, organization! and Hydrate with Greywat er. These presenta tions offer best practices to help you get the most out of your yard and conserve outdoor water use. The City will soon begin construction of a Xeriscape Demonstration Garden! The garden will be located at the southwest corner of Civic Center Drive and Paradise Lane. It will be a resource for residents, businesses, and homeowner associations to learn more about water conservation and native plants. Keep an eye on the City’s website for details as they become available. Sun City Grand residents serviced by EPCOR Water can take advantage of assistance programs for low-income customers, deployed military, and disabled military veterans. If you or someone you If you are a veteran, Vetlink Foundation offers “Coffee with Vets” on the last Saturday of every month, beginning at 9 a.m. at the city’s AZ TechCelerator located at 12425 W. Bell Road. This is a free event for veterans to socialize, connect and share with other veterans. Each event has a guest speaker who will discuss a veteran-related topic. RSVP by calling 623.303.4355. Vetlink Foundation is a non profit organization whose mission is to connect veterans and their families with free services and opportunities. I recently had the opportunity to donate some of my discretionary funds to this great organization! My monthly Meet and Greet at SCG Café is canceled for July, but please join me when I resume my meeting on August 23 at 6 p.m.! I look forward to seeing you all there, and I wish everyone a safe and happy 4th of July!

EPCOR WATER Sun City Grand residents serviced by EPCOR Water can take advantage of assistance programs for low-income customers, deployed military, and disabled military veterans. If you or someone you know can benefit from this program, you can read more at epcor.com. For more information on water conservation, you can always check out the City’s website at surpriseaz. gov/waterconservation. WHAT'S NEW If you are looking for a way to stay cool, consider beating the heat this summer by checking out some of our great local businesses. Two recent openings are the Ohana Salon, located at 13980 W. Bell Road, and the new Saigon Kitchen Lounge, located at 14071 W. Bell Road.

know can benefit from this program, you can read more at epcor.com. For more information on water conservation, you can always check out the City’s website at surpriseaz.gov/waterconservation. AUGUST MEET & GREET My monthly Meet and Greet at SCG Café is canceled for July, but please join me when I resume my meeting on August 23 at 6 p.m.! I look forward to seeing you all there, and I wish everyone a safe and happy 4th of July!