Black Mantel

Think your passwords and online habits are safe? In this challenge-style video, I walk you through a hacker’s mindset. Let’s see if you can spot the weak spots before they do. Can you outsmart a real cyberattack?

In this episode, we expose the most common cybersecurity failures that put companies at risk—from weak employee training and outdated systems to poor leadership decisions and third-party vulnerabilities. Discover how businesses unknowingly open the door to hackers and what can be done to prevent costly breaches. Whether you're a tech pro or a business leader, this episode will challenge your a...

After 6 months of real-world use, is the Netgear Nighthawk MR6500 5G hotspot still worth your money? In this follow-up review, I break down the performance, battery life, reliability, and whether this device still stands out in 2025.

Want a job in tech but don’t know where to start? This video gives you a clear roadmap to build a self-taught tech career with no degree, no connections, and no experience. Everything you need to get started in 2025.

Before you connect to that free airport Wi-Fi or scan a QR code at a restaurant—think again. In this video, I expose the cyber traps lurking in everyday places and explain how hackers use public Wi-Fi, charging stations, fake QR codes, and more to steal your data. Learn how to stay safe in the real world.

Your data is more valuable than you think and will likely be auctioned off without your knowledge! In this video, we dive into how companies collect, sell, and profit from your online information. Learn how to protect yourself, safeguard your privacy, and take control of your digital footprint before it’s too late. Don’t let your data be the highest bid!

With growing calls to ban TikTok over privacy concerns, why are other devices and platforms with similar risks flying under the radar? In this video, we explore the double standards in the conversation around privacy and data security. From smart home devices to popular social media apps, are we focusing on the wrong target while ignoring the bigger picture? Let's dive into the politics, techn...

In this episode, we dive into the critical topic of protecting children in the digital age. With online platforms becoming a playground for adult predators, it's more important than ever to educate ourselves and our kids about internet safety. Join me as we discuss practical tips, red flags to watch for, and how to create a safe online environment for children. Let’s work together to keep kids...

Parents, it’s time to take action! Online games like Roblox, Fortnite, and others may seem harmless, but they can expose children to serious dangers. In this video, we uncover a shocking case of a predator targeting a young child on Roblox and explain how they used common tactics to manipulate them. I’ll walk you through the steps every parent should take to protect their kids online, including ho...

In this insightful series, we delve into the dynamic world of Information Technology professionals, exploring the factors that influence their career paths and job tenures in an ever-evolving industry. Each episode offers a deep dive into the trends and challenges faced by IT professionals. We examine the average duration of job tenures in the tech sector and what drives IT experts to move from on...

Misrepresentations of the curriculum or course materials are also a common scam with technology bootcamps. Some bootcamps may claim to offer comprehensive training in a particular field but fail to deliver on their promises. In some cases, they may use outdated or irrelevant course materials, leaving students unprepared for real-world job requirements.

Technology has become an integral part of modern life, with many people relying on their smartphones, laptops, and other gadgets for work, communication, entertainment, and more. However, as useful as technology can be, there are times when it can also be overwhelming and disruptive to our lives. This has led some people to disconnect from technology, or at least reduce their usage of it.

A recent experience at a local park brought a visitor near me to ask questions about my drone. I notice each time I fly that I meet someone. Where sports used to be a common ground for people, now technology is taking that place. 

Have you ever watched a Youtube video and fell into a short clip of some social media guru who promises you financial freedom if you buy their course material? Be safe and watch out for these multi-marketing schemes. Don't trust anyone who promises you something. The web is free of information that you can use at your disposal for free. 

Welcome to The Black Mantel with your host Skylar as we discuss Information Technology (also known as IT). Ever wondered why IT people are very short in terms of solving your problems? We’re very direct and want to solve the problems so we can move forward to fight other fires.

I passed the CompTIA Security+ exam and wanted to share a few tips with you on what I used to study for this exam. Please create your own version of the study guide and use my advice as a resource paired with your study session. I wish you the best of luck in passing the exam.

Comparing technology from back then to now and talking about how it's made an impact on our lifestyle. Was this a good or bad idea?

CVPD ( Chula Vista Police Department) is now looking into covering 100% of the City with Drones to better serve the community and reduce response time to increase the quality. Is this a new way to increase the reach into consumers' rights? 

Computer networking is a fun way to build not only a skillset but a way to create your own business through building networks for small to medium businesses. Today's episode is insight into how I learned about networks and how it's helped my career today. 

Want to know how IT people really feel. This episode goes through a few things on how we feel about day-to-day operations.

Technology professionals that serve end-users encounter these top 5 things daily or at least one of them. Listen to this episode to find out what they are and how you can avoid them.

Google Workspace is a collaborative tool for businesses to use cloud-based solutions to increase productivity across their staff. Divention Technologies provided advice on how to effectively use Google Workspace.

Technology has changed basic communication by transitioning people from face to face and going straight to mobile devices where our thumbs bounce on a digital screen. 

The benefits of adding a certification to your name while drone flying could have a good financial impact to your revenue stream.  The drone market is growing faster than we can keep up. Companies such as Walmart and Amazon are racing to the top in delivery options to their consumers.

Smart Meters in the start of Arkansas have been said to have been installed for more the 700,000 people. Today’s episode talks about how the service works and what consumers would be concerned about regarding their service and privacy options.