skeptic

A Corgi looking puzzled at his Windows 11 computer

Just What Is Common Sense?

Everyone says to use common sense online, but what does that mean? I’ll show you how to use to spot scams, dodge bad advice, and decide what’s trustworthy.

A concerned Corgi looking at a computer screen with the message "Malware Found!"

It Pays to Be Skeptical

A pop-up says malware was found. An email claims your package couldn’t be delivered. A caller insists they’re from Microsoft. Here’s one simple skill to keep you and your technology safe.

A Corgi holding the puppet strings to a puppet that looks a little like Leo.

How Do I Know You’re Not AI?

Can you tell if this article was written by AI? You can’t… but that might not be the right question. What really matters is whether you can trust the information.

A giant fishing hook labeled “Login Here” dangles in front of a surprised user character sitting at a desk, with warning icons and blinking red alerts on their screen. Behind the screen, a sneaky figure smirks.

Many Ways Your Account Can Be Hacked and What to Do About It

There are many ways accounts can be compromised. There are also many simple ways you can protect yourself.

A young newspaper boy from the early 1900s standing on a street corner, holding a newspaper high in the air with one hand to attract attention. The boy is dressed in period-appropriate attire, including a flat cap, suspenders, and a newsboy's bag slung over his shoulder. The setting is a bustling urban street with cobblestones, vintage storefronts, and pedestrians walking by.

How the Internet Is Breaking Journalism

As we use the internet, we need to be more vigilant than ever to separate truth from falsehood and recognize what’s important over what’s popular.

Tip of the Day: Be Skeptical

To access this post, you must purchase The Ask Leo! Tip Of The Day / Bronze Level Patronage, Silver: Online Everything or Gold: What More Can I Add?.

Stop Spreading Manure

Believing and spreading manure — lies, falsehoods, and misleading implications — makes you look bad and makes the internet a dumber place. Become more skeptical, even of things you agree with.

The One Thing Every Non-Technical Person Needs to Know

Don’t believe everything you see online. From clickbait headlines to fear-filled posts, misinformation spreads fast. This article explains how to tell truth from fiction, why skepticism matters, and how a little critical thinking can keep you safer—and a lot less stressed—while using technology every day.

How Much Can I Trust Information on the Internet?

Information on the internet ranges from truth to fiction to intentional misinformation. It’s important to develop a critical eye towards everything you read.

A Corgi using a magnifying glass looking at "TrustMe.exe" on a Windows computer screen.

How Can I Tell If a Download Is Safe?

How do you know that download you want is safe? Before you run it, I’ll show you how to scan it, when to trust the results, and the simple habits that keep malware off your machine for good.