Workshops & Seminars
Tech Talks & Training with Don:
Clarity, Strategy, Results
Join me for a down-to-earth workshop or seminar designed to help you feel more confident using today’s digital tools. Whether you're hoping to improve your online presence, learn how to use AI to save time, or understand the basics of good web design, there's something here for everyone—no tech jargon required. Along the way, we'll also cover simple, smart ways to stay safe online, so you can protect your information while making the most of what technology has to offer.
Date: 06/01/2025 - Urgent: Important Security Alert – Google, Apple, and Microsoft Accounts at Risk
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Check if your email address is in a data breach
Quick check for scams, and report scams with a single click to help protect others
Check if an email address is risky or suspicious with this email reputation check tool. A free online email risk score tool you can use to check email reputation.
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Stop the Scam Workshop Reference Materials
Session 1: TRUST Checklist
- Think before you click: Pause and breathe if something feels urgent. Do not act on impulse.
- Research: Verify the caller or sender. Look up official websites/phones to confirm information independently.
- Update: Keep your devices and apps updated with the latest security patches. Stay informed about new scam alerts.
- Secure: Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication. Protect your accounts.
- Tell: Share suspicious encounters with someone you trust before deciding. Report any scam attempts to authorities (FTC, police).
Session 2: Scam Types & Red Flags
- Phishing (Email/Text): Look for poor spelling, generic greetings, and urgent requests. Don’t click unknown links.
- Tech Support Scam: Hang up on unsolicited “support” calls. Never give remote access or pay fees to an unknown tech support caller.
- Romance Scam: Be cautious of online loves that request money, especially if they avoid meeting in person. Verify any urgent stories.
- Impersonation (Government, Family): Government agencies will contact you by official mail, not by random phone. Always question urgent requests for payment. Confirm “emergencies” from family with another family member.
- Job/Investment Scam: If you have to pay money upfront for a job or investment, it’s likely a scam. Research companies and offers thoroughly.
- General Red Flags: Demand for secrecy, immediate payment by gift card/crypto, high-pressure timelines, too-good-to-be-true offers.
Session 3: Prevention Habits & Tools
- Passwords: Use long, unique passwords (or passphrases) for each account. Consider a reputable password manager.
- Two-Factor Authentication: Enable 2FA on email, banking, and social accounts to add an extra layer of security.
- Updates: Turn on automatic software updates for your devices and apps.
- Secure Connections: Use trusted Wi-Fi (avoid public Wi-Fi for banking), and consider a VPN for privacy.
- Anti-Virus and Backup: Keep security software active and updated. Regularly back up important files to the cloud or external drive.
- Verify Sources: Double-check emails, calls, or messages by contacting the company or person through official channels. Don’t use the contact info provided in the suspicious message.
- Help Others: Teach family or friends the above habits. Offer to review suspicious messages together. Encourage open communication about scams.
Session 4: Scam Recovery Checklist
- Emotional Care: Remind yourself it’s not your fault. Talk to someone you trust about how you feel. Consider peer support groups.
- Financial Cleanup: Contact your bank/credit card companies immediately to report fraud and reverse charges. Save any receipts or records from the scam.
- Account Security: Change all passwords and set up any two-factor authentication on accounts that might be compromised.
- Device Scan: Update and run antivirus or anti-malware software on any device involved. Remove any software the scammer installed.
- Report: File a report with the FTC (ReportFraud.ftc.gov) and local law enforcement. Reporting helps stop the scammer.
- Stay Vigilant: Keep an eye on your credit reports and bank statements for a few months. Consider freezing credit if sensitive info was shared.
- Support Network: Lean on friends/family, or professional counselors if needed. Stay connected to prevent isolation.
Trusted Government Cybersecurity Resources
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- FTC – Consumer Advice on Scams & Security https://consumer.ftc.gov/ Learn about the latest scams, how to report them, and steps to take if you're targeted. → Great for: Scam reporting, fraud alerts, and consumer recovery tips.
- Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) https://www.cisa.gov/ Offers national-level guidance on protecting personal and organizational digital systems. → Great for: Best practices, alerts, and free cybersecurity toolkits.
- OnGuardOnline – Now part of gov https://consumer.ftc.gov/identity-theft-and-online-security/online-privacy-and-security Still referenced widely, this campaign includes online safety videos and handouts. → Great for: Clear, educational resources for all ages.
- IdentityTheft.gov https://www.identitytheft.gov/ A one-stop site for reporting identity theft and recovering from it step-by-step. → Great for: Victim support, action checklists, and reporting.
- ostaysafeonline.org (by the National Cybersecurity Alliance, a public-private partnership supported by DHS) https://www.staysafeonline.org/resources/online-safety-and-privacy A consumer-focused site with digital safety basics, updated with current scam trends. → Great for: Internet hygiene, phishing defenses, and parental guidance.
- FBI – Scams and Safety https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/scams-and-safety Covers fraud types, cybercrime warnings, and reporting guidance. → Great for: Reporting serious cybercrime and learning scam behaviors.
- IRS – Tax Scams and Consumer Alerts https://www.irs.gov/help/tax-scams/recognize-tax-scams-and-fraud A reliable source for debunking IRS-related phishing and impersonation scams. → Great for: Educating seniors or others at risk for tax-related fraud.
- DLA.mil – Online Safety https://www.dla.mil/About-DLA/News/News-Article-View/Article/1324257/simple-steps-to-online-safety/ A gateway site that pulls together resources from various federal agencies. → Great for: Central hub for all kinds of internet and data protection resources.
- Online Quiz Questions - Consumer Alert https://www.dla.mil/About-DLA/News/News-Article-View/Article/1324257/simple-steps-to-online-safety/ Before you take a quiz to find out which Marvel character you are, ask yourself: Do I know who’s gathering this information about me — or what they plan to do with it?
