You asked, we listened: We’re relaunching my Tips & How-tos newsletter as The Current Hacks to give you useful tips and tricks to get the most out of your tech in a streamlined, skimmable format.

Wait to see The Current Tech Hacks in your inbox soon OR sign-up for Kim’s Early Adopters list to be the first to see the new edition! Sign up here →

We don't blame you if you're uncomfortable with how much your smart devices can hear in your home. Companies that make these products know enough about you as it is. If you want to take control of your privacy and keep conversations behind closed doors, here's how to stop your smart devices from listening.

A new add-on from Chess.com turns your iPhone app into a mobile chessboard. Here’s how it works:

• Download the free Chess for iMessage app. 
• Open Messages and start or reopen a conversation with the person you want to challenge. 
• Scroll through app add-ons until you see a green pawn piece. 
• Click it and a chessboard will pop up.
• Choose your opening move and get ready for a battle of wits. 

🎮 If your friends are busy (or you’re an Android person), try one of these free browser games.

If you learned something new or found this helpful, consider subscribing to the Komando Community. Your support makes our work possible. Try it free here!

You must be careful when setting up outdoor security cameras. If you film your neighbors, you could find yourself in court. Here's how to set up security cameras without breaking the law.

Over on my Instagram page, I share photos of my life. I keep my profile private, but I'll add you!

Start the New Year with greater peace of mind for you and your family. Right now, Kim's listeners can get 20% off SimpliSafe’s award-winning home security system and a free indoor security camera with Interactive Monitoring. In an emergency, SimpliSafe’s professional monitoring agents use Fast Protect Technology. Capturing critical evidence and verifying the threat is real, so you can get priority police response — even if you're away or unable to respond. All for under $1 per day. That's less than half the cost of ADT’s traditional professional installed plans.

Knowledge is power. That's why I do my best to show you some of the best ways to protect yourself from creeps, hackers and nosey companies out to get all your info. In my latest column, I've got five tech pro tips to lock down your privacy and security.

Search isn't just made for finding things online. Your text messages and third-party messaging apps contain robust search features, too. Before you scroll endlessly, here's a quick and easy way to find the photos and videos you've sent and received.

What are you interested in? Let us know so we can help deliver the tips, tricks and articles you care about. Follow the button below to update your preferences. It takes less than a minute!

Steve Jobs resurrected with AI, shocking scam uses Uber drivers & urgent iCloud warning. Plus, Allie has a dire warning for Samsung and Pixel owners, Matt tells us how to remote help for free, make money writing wedding vows and speeches, and a hilarious joke to end it all!