Computeractive

Computeractive is the UK’s best-selling computer magazine and your friendly guide to PCs, gadgets and the web! It includes regular news updates, project ideas, help and advice on popular reader queries, articles on anti-virus software, features on consumer rights, and a whole lot more to help you get the very best out of your computer. Get PC advice in plain English today – get Computeractive!

Computeractive

From the Editor

Neighbourhood Watch members’ data exposed

Ads appear in Start menu – but you can block them

YouTube cracks down on apps and software that block ads

Beware ‘press 2’ LastPass phone scam

IN BRIEF

IN BRIEF

Police take down site that scammed thousands of Brits

Brave uses AI for instant search results

Full-screen Microsoft ads ‘thank you’ for using Windows 10

Ofcom increases compensation for broadband failures and delays

IN BRIEF

Why have Captchas become so difficult to solve? • They’re more like IQ tests than a simple check to prove you’re human

Protect your tech • Scams and threats to avoid, plus new security tools

Letters • Tell us what’s on your mind

Consumeractive • We stand up for your legal rights

Grow Your Family Tree • If you think your ancestors left money for relatives, follow Judith Batchelor’s advice to…

Best Free Software • Robert Irvine recommends new programs that won’t cost you a thing

What should I download? • We advise you which software and apps to use

Named & Shamed • Keumars Afifi-Sabet puts the boot into tech villains, jargon-spouting companies and misbehaving software

Dell Inspiron 14 Plus • Bargain chip

Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 • Matching Windows

Asus RT-AX57 Go • De-stress signal

Logitech Signature Slim Combo MK950 • Take a shortcut

Lexar SL500 • Drive in the fast lane

Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro • Exercising authority

EarFun Wave Pro • Hear for a good time

Kobo Libra Colour • Has it got hues for you!

Buy It • Our pick of products that have won the Buy It award

Computeractive 2023 Back Issue CD & USB Stick • Both the CD and Stick contain all 26 issues from 2023

HOW TO… Monitor older relatives using a Fitbit • What you need: Fitbit; Fitbit app on Android phone or iPhone Time required: Two hours

Stop your neighbours using your Wi-Fi • What you need: Broadband router Time required: 60 minutes

Readers’ Tips

Browser Tips

Phone and Tablet Tips

Make Windows Better

Make Office Better

Create a quiz in Google Slides

Mona Lisa rapping • Microsoft has built a tool that puts words into your mouth

SECRET FREE SOFTWARE You Must Use To Stay 100% Private Online • Don’t compromise your privacy by sticking to the same old tools. Robert Irvine reveals the best new ways to block web trackers, protect your data and remain anonymous

SUBSCRIBE TODAY and get two 64 GB USB sticks*

Should you stop using Roku? • Roku makes excellent streaming devices, but has recently been making big mistakes too. Robert Irvine explains why you should consider switching to an alternative

FIND OUT WHERE DEVICES WERE MADE • Shoppers are increasingly keen to learn where items are manufactured, but online retailers don’t make this easy. Daniel Booth explains how you can find this information

Problems Solved • Our experts solve all your tech problems

Reader Support • Having a problem with our recommended software or expert tips? Email editor@computeractive.co.uk and we’ll do our best to help

Jargon Buster

Free up space by shrinking software