How-To
Set up your parents' tech before the next support call
Use a family visit to update devices, prevent scams, enable remote help, and configure emergency contacts for parents and grandparents.
A family visit is a good time to make your parents' phones, computers, and smart-home devices easier to maintain. The Verge reports that a few preventive changes can reduce future support calls while helping relatives solve simpler problems themselves.
Turn on automatic updates
Updates improve security and fix bugs, but automatic installation may be disabled. Configure each device before handing it back.
On a Mac:
On an iPhone or iPad:
On a Windows 11 PC:
On Android:
On Samsung phones using the Galaxy Store, open Settings, select Auto update apps, and choose Using Wi-Fi only.
Reduce the risk of scams
Discuss common fraud tactics, including fake calls from Microsoft about computer viruses, the IRS about alleged tax debts, or banks claiming they need help stopping a fraudulent transaction. AARP’s Scams & Fraud resources include a weekday phone helpline, holiday-scam guidance, and examples of common cons.
If a relative has already been defrauded, take these steps:
Teach basic recovery and remote support
Show your parents how to disconnect and reconnect a computer, router, or other device. A soft reset can resolve many temporary app and hardware problems, and teaching the process is more useful than fixing every issue yourself.
Windows 11 Quick Assist
Mac Screen Sharing
If Screen Sharing cannot be enabled, check that Remote Management is disabled. More advanced access is available through Remote Management.
Chrome Remote Desktop
Add emergency contacts
Configure emergency information while you are together, then test the setup. The available options differ by device and operating system.
On an iPhone:
An iPhone can also call emergency services when the side and volume buttons are pressed together, or when the side button is pressed five times. For relatives who are uncomfortable with phones, directly calling 911 may be simpler.
On Android:
Emergency contacts may also be configurable on an Apple Watch, Pixel Watch, or another smartwatch, depending on the device and its operating system.
Configure a hands-free call on an Echo
An Echo can let someone call a trusted contact by voice. The Alexa app is required on both phones.
Other smart-home devices use different setup processes, so check their specific instructions before enabling emergency calling.
The goal is not to replace a family member with a bot. AI assistants can give incorrect instructions, and a wrong fix could make a problem worse. If your parents do not want to use AI and their current setup works, leave it alone; written instructions or a useful video may be more helpful than taking over the device.
The same principle applies to TV settings such as motion smoothing: show relatives how to change a setting rather than silently changing it for them. Some TV operating systems may not allow motion smoothing to be disabled, but teaching the process gives them a better chance of handling the next problem themselves.