How to spot and stop scams, Pixel 11 explained & my new restaurant search trick (187, August 15, 2026)

• Scam protection: Slow down, stop the conversation, and independently verify requests before sending money, sharing codes, or installing software. • Family code words: Set up a private family code word to help verify emergency calls that could use AI-cloned voices. • Calendar spam: Fake PayPal charges can appear as calendar events, so restrict invitations from unknown senders. • Saving old email: Use Gmail import or Thunderbird to save messages before an old email account is shut down. • OnePay legitimacy: OnePay appears legitimate, but always research customer service, banking partners, and company details before moving money. • Pixel 11 lineup: Google’s Pixel 11 phones bring upgraded cameras, more AI features, faster charging, and higher starting prices. • Which Pixel to buy: Rich’s early pick is the Pixel 11 Pro XL with 512 GB of storage and 16 GB of RAM. • Pixel Tag: Google’s $29 AirTag-style tracker arrives November 11. • Microsoft Publisher replacement: Canva is an easy Publisher alternative, while Affinity Publisher offers a more traditional desktop experience. • Verizon outage: If your phone suddenly says SOS, check DownDetector and your carrier’s status page before changing settings. • Cheaper wireless plans: MVNOs like PureTalk can save money by using major carrier networks without the premium pricing. • Instagram redesign: Instagram changed its in-app wordmark for the first time in 10 years. • Trusting AI: AI can sound certain even when it is wrong, so verify important answers and use it to assist rather than replace your judgment. • Flock privacy changes: Flock is reducing license plate data retention and adding tighter controls after reports of police misuse. • Passport renewals: Start at the official State Department website to avoid unnecessary third-party passport renewal fees. • Electronics parts stores: Micro Center remains one of the best places to buy individual computer and electronics components in person. • Restaurant search trick: Try “best casual local institution near me” in Google Maps to find distinctive local restaurants instead of chains. • AI watermarking: Claude plans to watermark AI-generated content, including text, but identifying partial AI use remains complicated. • Better than fillable PDFs: Online forms like Jotform, Tally, and Typeform can be easier for users than fillable PDFs. • AirTag alternatives: Pebblebee trackers add features like rechargeable batteries, built-in attachment loops, and two-way phone finding. • Galaxy Buds hearing aids: Samsung is adding an FDA-cleared hearing aid feature for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss. • Transaction alerts: Bank alerts can help you spot unauthorized withdrawals quickly and limit the damage. • Sextortion emails: Ignore threatening emails claiming hackers recorded you, and change any exposed password that is still in use. • Listener privacy tips: DuckDuckGo Email Protection and data-removal services can help reduce tracking and unwanted calls. Call 1-888-RICH-101 (1-888-742-4101) to join in! Email your question here . How to Listen: 🎙️ Live on KFI AM 640 - Los Angeles, Saturdays from 11 AM - 2 PM PT 🎙️ Rebroadcast on 710 WOR - New York City, Sundays from 8 PM - 11 PM ET 📻 Syndicated on affiliates nationwide Subscribe to the podcast . Premium subscribers can listen ad-free here . Follow Rich on Instagram . Subscribe to my free newsletter . Rich on Tech Weekly airs on KTLA+. You can download the app on Fire TV, Apple TV, Roku, and Samsung smart TVs. Disclosure: I may earn a commission from purchases made through links in this post, at no additional cost to you. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.