The Senior Program office at LenoxCC is open,
5 days-a-week Mon - Thu, 9am-4pm; Friday, 9am-12pm.
Brought to you by ISD283 Community Education.
If you call 952-924-2528, and leave a voicemail message,
it will also show up in my work email.
The Computer Lab, room 110 telephone is 952-928-6439 Your Buddy, John McHugh
000 Meeting Tuesday, January 10, 2023 ~1-3pm,
Lenox Community Center, Room 110 6715 Minnetonka Blvd
Topic -- Back ground downloads making my windows computer slow. Check below for tips.
Windows computers [iMacs] available for web browsing.
Please sign in on the buddy sheet when you arrive.
000 Meeting Tuesday, January 17, 2023 ~1-3pm,
Lenox Community Center, Room 110 6715 Minnetonka Blvd
General topics, Buddies help session
Windows computers [iMacs] available for web browsing.
Please sign in on the buddy sheet when you arrive.
This and other meetings are member-supported.
John is on extended vacation, starting retirement.
mchugh33 at yahoo dot com
Members can initiate a zoom meeting, if desired.
"Bring In Your Box Day" (every fourth Tuesday!) The first four Senior Computer Buddies to contact me may bring in their windows computer, or device, and get "best effort" help or advice about using it. We can supply the ac cord, keyboard, mouse and monitor for your desktop or tower computer. It's helpful to tell me before Tuesday if you are bringing in your unit.
Regular Meeting Activity Fee established by ISD283:
$1 activity fee for SLP Senior Program Members
$2 activity fee for Non-Members
Please sign in on the buddy sheet when you arrive.
1pm Specific or open topics discussion [open topics on "bring in your box" days] .
2pm Help session. Some help opportunities may be simultaneous as a buddy installs recommended software while another buddy asks a question.
All Senior Computer Buddies will benefit from our best-effort attempts in solving unusual or common problems. Sometimes, just emailing a detailed question about your computer operation problem can result in an answer, avoiding the need to drag your box in.
The group is not a class in learning computer operation, but a discussion of topics for computer users, with best effort help available.
There are two Chromebase computers available for browsing, without printing capability.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chromebook#Chromebase
We also have a Chromebook, a Windows Ten computer and a Linux computer available for you to try.
The buddies blog is here....it's not fancy. It includes tips and article links previously shared in the weekly emails.
You can see it at http://seniorcomputerbuddies.blogspot.com/
All quantities of future tips and links will be found at the blog, not in the weekly emails, due to top-secret restrictions imposed by Microsoft Office 365 Outlook.
==============================
John McHugh
SLP City Hall Cable TV Office
Community TV Coordinator, ParkTV15/96
SLP Senior Program Mentor at LenoxCC
5005 Minnetonka Boulevard
[952][924][2528]
jmchugh [at] stlouispark.org
http://www.parktv.org
"We Believe Our Public Service Makes A Difference"
===== Articles and websites Links =====
How to know If Windows 10 is
downloading on the background.
How do I know if my laptop is
downloading in the background?
How to check if something is
downloading in the background on Windows 10
Right-click on the Taskbar and select Task
Manager.
In the Process tab, click on the Network
column. ...
Check the process that is using the most
bandwidth currently.
To stop the download, select the process
and click on End Task.
How do I view background
downloads in Windows 10?
How do you tell if an update is
running in the background?
Press ctrl+alt+delete and click
start task manager. Show processes from all users, then list by CPU usage. You
will often see trustedinstaller.exe or msiexec.exe as processes running with
high cpu usage when anything is being installed, windows updates or otherwise. Jan
29, 2013
How to monitor background
uploads and downloads in Windows 10
Want to know what's eating up
your data in the background? Here is a simple, free, quick way to keep an eye
on the programs uploading and downloading in the background and stop them from
doing it if you don't want them to.
1. Click the Windows Key + s
key together to open the search window and type in resmon.exe then select Open
file location.
network monitor
2. When the File Explorer
window opens check what the icon for the program looks like and then right
click on resmon.exe and select Pin to taskbar.
web monitor
3. Find the icon on the taskbar
and click on it to open the Resource Monitor
network monitor
The Network Tab shows all the
programs are uploading or downloading on the Internet.
If you don't recognize a
program, Google the name to find out what program is actually running the one
you see here. MBAMService.exe, for example, is activated by Malwarebytes.
If you want to stop a
particular program from uploading and downloading you can then open the
program, or the one running it, go to settings, and (hopefully) set the network
activity to ask before connecting - or not connect at all.
How do I stop Windows 10 from
downloading in the background?
Here's what you need to do.
Click on the little magnifying icon on the task bar - or click on the start
button - and type SETTINGS into the window. Now go down the list of items in
the left menu bar and in the right column, turn off anything you don't want
sneaking uploads and downloads in the background.
What is downloading in
background?
How do I stop background
installer running?
To do this, right-click on the
Taskbar and select Task Manager. Under the Process tab, you may see the
msiexec.exe process. Right-click on it and select End task. This will terminate
the Windows Installer process. Jun 13, 2020
https://www.howtogeek.com/224471/how-to-prevent-windows-10-from-automatically-downloading-updates/
How to Prevent Windows 10 or 11
From Automatically Downloading Updates
Chris Hoffman and Nick Lewis
Updated Oct 28, 2022
To prevent automatic updates on
Windows 10, open the Settings app, navigate to Network & Internet, select
your network connection, then enable the "metered" connection option.
You may also stop updates from automatically downloading using the Local Group
Policy Editor in the Professional edition of Windows10.
Windows 10 PCs automatically
check for updates and install any updates they find. You can take some control
over this and have Windows install updates on your schedule, but these options
are hidden. Windows Update really wants to automatically update on Windows 10.
Professional, Enterprise, and
Education editions of Windows 10 have access to group policy and registry
settings for this, but even Home editions of Windows 10 give you a way to stop
updates from automatically downloading.
Prevent Automatic Downloading
of Updates on a Specific Connection
When you set a connection as
“metered,” Windows won’t automatically download updates on it. Windows will
automatically set certain types of connections — cellular data connections, for
example — as metered. However, you can set any connection as a metered
connection.
So, if you don’t want Windows
10 automatically downloading updates on your home network connection, just set
it as a metered connection. Windows will automatically download updates when
you connect your device to an unmetered network, or when you set the network
it’s connected to as unmetered again. And yes, Windows will remember this
setting for each individual network, so you can disconnect from that network
and reconnect all you like.
Do you have an Internet
connection with limited data? Just mark it as metered and Windows 10 won’t
automatically download updates on it. If your connection offers unlimited
downloads at a specific time — for example, during the middle of the night —
you could mark the connection as unmetered occasionally at these times to download
updates and mark it as metered after the updates are downloaded.
To change this option for a
Wi-Fi network, open the Settings app, head to Network & Internet >
Wi-Fi, and click the name of the Wi-Fi network you’re currently connected to.
Click the switch for “Set as metered connection” option on the properties page
if you’re on Windows 10. This option only affects the Wi-Fi network you’re
currently editing, but Windows will remember this setting for each individual
Wi-Fi network.
To change this option for a
wired Ethernet network, open the Settings app, head to Network & Internet
> Ethernet, and click the name of your Ethernet connection. Enable the “Set
as metered connection” option on the properties page.
After enabling this option,
Windows Update will say “Updates are available. We’ll download the updates as
soon as you connect to Wi-Fi, or you can download the updates using your data connection
(charges may apply.)” By marking a
connection as metered, you’ve tricked Windows into thinking it’s a mobile data
connection–for example, you might be tethering your PC to your smartphone. You
can click the Download button to download and install updates at your leisure.
Stop Windows Update From
Automatically Rebooting Your Computer
So maybe you don’t mind the
automatic downloads, but you just don’t want Windows to restart while you’re in
the middle of something. Windows 10 can help —letting you set a window of time
each day called “Active Hours,” during which it won’t automatically reboot.
To set Active Hours on Windows
10, head to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. Click or
tap “Change Active Hours” under Update Settings. From there, you’ll set the
times you don’t want Windows to automatically restart.
Offline Audio: How to Convert YouTube Videos to MP3 Files
Need a YouTube to MP3 converter to download your favorite songs onto your
computer? These websites and programs can help.
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/convert-youtube-videos-to-mp3-files
By Lance Whitney
Updated November 17, 2022
Clear the Clutter: How to Free Up Space on Your iPhone or
iPad Is the storage full on your iOS device? Here's how to figure out what's
taking up the most space on your iPhone and iPad so you can decide what to
delete.
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-free-up-space-on-your-iphone-or-ipad
By Chandra Steele
Updated November 14, 2022
Ask Leo Helpful Articles n2.pdf
Is the latest item added to www.tinyurl.com/jm-folder
https://www.facebook.com/theamazingw0rld/photos
click one and then click left or right...where did the
day go?
https://askleo.com/get-rid-of-spam-emails
My problem: Used an iPhone 8 to record 2hr6min video at
CMJam at LenoxCC.
Connected by usb to my windows 10 computer, it would not
show that 13gb file.
It showed other photos and videos I had recorded.
Much searching on google, tried one sw, didn’t work.
Tried FoneTool.
https://www.ubackup.com/phone/thanks-install.html?edition=onFree
they also had an article on other ways to transfer:
https://www.ubackup.com/phone-backup/transfer-large-video-from-iphone-to-pc.html
It took about 15min to transfer. Had to rub my finger on
the screen to prevent phone from "sleeping" and interrupting the
transfer.
Funny thing, after I was successful in the transfer using
FoneTool, the videos appeared, with the photos and short videos I could see
before. Oh well....
A very good article with picture examples of bogus
phishing screens https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-avoid-phishing-scams
Don't Be Caught by Email Scams: How to Avoid Phishing
Viruses, Trojans, and other malicious programs attack your OS and your apps. With
phishing attacks, the target is you, the user. Here's how to protect your
personal information and avoid phishing scams.
By Neil J. Rubenking
Updated October 3, 2022
https://platypusplatypus.com/chromebooks/how-to-reset-a-managed-chromebook/
Advice here should work with personal chromebooks. An
organization's Chromebook may have “forced re-enrollment” and you won't be able
to powerwash it and use it without restrictions.
How to Free Up Disk Space in Windows
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/free-up-hard-disk-space-on-windows-10
Windows 10 and Windows 11 include helpful tools like
Storage Sense to help you free up disk space. Here’s how to remove temporary
files, uninstall apps, and more.
By Lance Whitney
January 24, 2022
Need to free up some disk space on your Windows PC? Both
Windows 10 and Windows 11 provide a dedicated settings menu to make the process
easier.
The SFC improves system stability. SFC - The System File
Checker, applies to Windows: 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, XP.
by Leo A. Notenboom
The System File Checker is a little-known, simple-to-run
command-line program. It validates that Window's operating files are undamaged.
In order to prevent malware from compromising critical
system components, Windows works hard to maintain the integrity of its files.
If you try to replace a “protected” file, you may get a message that the
operating system has put the old, approved version back. That’s Windows File
Protection, which is now called Windows Resource Protection.
Unfortunately, automated protection doesn’t cover every
conceivable situation in which your system files could be damaged. Sometimes
it’s as simple as a hard disk error.
As a result, automated checking is nice, but sometimes
you need to take matters into your own hands.
Enter the SFC, the System File Checker.
https://askleo.com/sfc-system-file-checker/
A valuable collection of Windows utilities. Applies to
Windows: 11, 10 by Leo A. Notenboom Microsoft has made these free tools easier
to get and keep automatically updated.
I’ve long recommended SysInternals like Process Explorer,
Autoruns, and more for an assortment of maintenance and diagnostic tasks.
They’ve always been a bit of a pain to install, typically
involving downloading a zip file, extracting it, and perhaps putting the
resulting files in the “right” place, whatever that might be.
No more. Microsoft just made installing the SysInternals
tools easier than ever.
Forget about spam, advertising mailings, hacking and attacking robots. Keep your real mailbox clean and secure. Temp Mail provides temporary, secure, anonymous, free, disposable email address.
Your guide to a better future Services & Software
All the news and tips you need to get the most out of services, apps and software you use every day.
https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/
[tips for OSX and iOS as well as Windows and Android]
Google Pays ‘Enormous’ Sums to Maintain Search-Engine Dominance, DOJ Says. DOJ suit alleges Google’s exclusive deals lock out rivals. Company says phone makers, browsers want its search engine
By Leah Nylen September 8, 2022
by Karen Haoa July 29, 2021
The world first learned of Sophie Zhang in September 2020, when BuzzFeed News obtained and published highlights from an abridged version of her nearly 8,000-word exit memo from Facebook.
Before she was fired, Zhang was officially employed as a low-level data scientist at the company. But she had become consumed by a task she deemed more important: finding and taking down fake accounts and likes that were being used to sway elections globally.<snip>
Glary Utilities Free Tools
Glary Utilities 5 20mb download, 63mb install https://www.glarysoft.com/ "The No. 1 Free, Powerful and All-in-one utility for cleaning your PC. Boosts PC speed and fixes frustrating errors, crashes and freezes. Features one-click functionality and easy, automated options. Over 20 tools to maximize your Computer's performance."
Free Tools ---
Registry Repair Glary Tracks Eraser
Glary Duplicate Cleaner Glary Disk Cleaner
Disk SpeedUp Absolute Uninstaller
Quick Startup Software Update
Software Update Free Quick Search
Glary Disk Explorer Security Process Explorer
Positive and negative reviews of Glary Utilities:
https://www.sitejabber.com/reviews/glaryutilities.com
https://appgrooves.com/android/com.glarysoft.glaryutilities/glary-utilities/glarysoft-ltd/negative
Facebook Engineers Admit They Don’t Know What They Do With Your Data In a court hearing, a Facebook engineer said Facebook’s engineering culture is “terrifying.”
By Lorenzo Franceschi-Bicchierai September 7, 2022
Is It Compatible? How to See Which Model iPhone or iPad You Have. Not sure what generation iPad you have? Don't know if your iPhone is compatible with the latest version of iOS? Here’s how to find out. By Lance Whitney September 6, 2022
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/what-generation-ipad-model-iphone-do-i-have
Download a copy of your information on Facebook, manage your settings.
https://www.facebook.com/help/212802592074644/?helpref=uf_share
text-only copy at https://tinyurl.com/jm-folder
https://askleo.com/the-top-reason-your-computer-is-slow/
The reason your computer is slow
The most common reason a PC might be slow is that there is too much software running — much of it starting automatically when you sign in. Uninstalling software you don’t use, avoiding unnecessary installs, and possibly disabling auto-start entries are the first steps to regaining control.
Too. Much. Software. <snip>
Look in Startup in Settings. Press the Windows key an start typing “Startup” without the quotes and click “Startup apps”. Also under “Apps and features” you can click on ” Optional features” and you might find some Windows apps you can uninstall.
10 hidden Windows 10 features you should use https://codepre.com/en/10-funciones-ocultas-de-windows-10-que-deberias-usar.html
01. emoji picker menu
02. How to quickly switch between virtual desktops in Windows 10 03. Instant timestamp in Notepad 04. Why Notepad is still awesome for taking notes 05. Windows “time machine” backup: How to use Windows file history to back up your data 06. Screen recording with Xbox Game Bar 07. How to Access the Hidden Power User Menu in Windows 10 08. How to use Focus Assist (Do Not Disturb mode) in Windows 10 09. How to enable and use clipboard history in Windows 10 10. How to enable night light in Windows 10
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/computer-virus-signs
How to Check Whether Your Computer Has Malware
BY JAMES FREW UPDATED JUL 25, 2022
Computer viruses throw up symptoms which could be indicative of a range of different problems. Not certain if your computer has a virus or other malware? Here are some telltale signs.
Browser malfunctions and misbehaviors.
Problems with your antivirus or security software.
Sudden or unexpected device slowdown.
Missing files.
Internet connectivity issues.
Frequent and unexplained program crashes.
Potentially unwanted programs (PUPs).
Inability to access common Windows utilities.
Unexplained hard drive activity.
Spam originating from your email or social accounts.
Alternative to Google Folders <this was the search
phrase I used in google, and of the 39 million results, I picked this article
to share:
https://kinsta.com/blog/google-drive-alternative/
7 Signs of Phishing to Watch For
https://askleo.com/7-signs-of-phishing-to-watch-for/
Home / Windows / Feature
10 little-known Windows features that will blow your mind
These quick tips will help you save time and get organized.
By Michael Crider
Staff Writer, PCWorld MAY 21, 2022
https://www.pcworld.com/article/702039/10-tiny-windows-tips-to-power-up-your-pc.html
Topic -- Privacy settings for iPhones, Google products,
Facebook, Amazon, Windows
Personal Tech The
Default Tech Settings You Should Turn Off Right Away https://www.nytimes.com/2022/07/27/technology/personaltech/default-settings-turn-off.html
These controls, which are buried inside products from
Apple, Google, Meta and others, make us share more data than we need to. tech fix
By Brian X. Chen July 27,
2022
The best free software for your PC Start off right with
solid security tools, productivity software, and other programs that every PC
needs. By Brad Chacos and Ian Paul PCWorld
JUN 10, 2022 https://www.pcworld.com/article/443089/best-free-software-for-pc.html
Edge browser Ninite Unchecky Microsoft PowerToys Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free Launchy 7-Zip VLC Paint.net Audacity Revo Uninstaller Space Sniffer Recuva Sumatra PDF Spotify or iTunes A password manager A productivity suite AutoHotKey TunnelBear VPN Free games! Bonus: Back up your PC! Master your Windows 10 PC
Or get the 6 page pdf article at https://tinyurl.com/jm-folder
Privacy settings for iPhones, Google products, Facebook, Amazon, Windows
Personal Tech|The Default Tech Settings You Should Turn Off Right Away
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/07/27/technology/personaltech/default-settings-turn-off.html
https://www.softpedia.com/get/PORTABLE-SOFTWARE/Internet/Browsers/Portable-Dillo.shtml
Portable D+ Browser is a lightweight web browser developed with an overall simplicity in mind for helping you navigate on the Internet.
Personal Tech|The Default Tech Settings You Should Turn Off Right Away
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/07/27/technology/personaltech/default-settings-turn-off.html
https://www.softpedia.com/get/PORTABLE-SOFTWARE/Internet/Browsers/Portable-Dillo.shtml
Portable D+ Browser is a lightweight web browser developed with an overall simplicity in mind for helping you navigate on the Internet.
You can read this NYT article using this browser:
The Best of Lance Whitney. I reviewed the pages of his articles links from 2022 to 2017, and
came up with my opinion [68 tips] of his best tips. In a handout at computer
buddies, or an email I can send you .
https://www.pcmag.com/authors/lance-whitney
Ask Leo!: Making Technology Work For Everyone I want to
make technology work for you. I want to replace frustration and intimidation
with the amazement and wonder I feel every day.
https://askleo.com/recent-entries/
https://askleo.com/best-articles-collection/
7 Signs of Phishing
A message received out of the blue with no prior context.
A message containing no additional explanation for
whatever you’re supposed to click on.
Bogus or meaningless filenames for promised documents.
Incomplete branding, like a Microsoft logo with no
mention of OneDrive in an email sharing a document.
Your email address not appearing in the “To:” line.
A message consisting of an image of text, rather than a
mix of images and text.
A bogus link destination, or a destination inconsistent
with the promised document.
While any of these can happen in legitimate email, each
should cause you to pause, and multiple instances in the same email should
cause you to question the legitimacy of the message.
https://askleo.com/7-signs-of-phishing-to-watch-for/
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-stop-images-from-automatically-downloading-in-emails
How to Stop Images From Automatically Downloading in
Emails If you're worried about tracking pixels from email images compromising
your privacy and security, here's how to disable automatic image loading in
Gmail, Outlook, and Apple Mail.
By Jason Cohen
August 23, 2021
Marketing emails often contain hidden code that can track
your online activity. That includes pixels inside images that monitor where and
when you opened an email.
This helps companies know what's working and which
subscribers are most likely to click open (and buy something). But if you have
privacy and security concerns, at least when it comes to images, there's a
simple solution: block automatic image loading.
By adjusting a few settings, you can stop marketers from
spying on you and even avoid annoying follow-up emails from senders who know
you've read their email. Here's how to disable image loading in Gmail, Apple's
Mail app, and Microsoft Outlook on desktop and mobile.<snip>
https://www.huffpost.com/entry/should-you-click-allow-cookies-website_l_62be36b4e4b014f50a2fdd61
Should I Click 'Allow Cookies' On Every Website That
Asks?
Feel like you're constantly being asked to accept cookies
from every website you visit? We asked experts if it's safe.
By Geoff Williams
Jul 1, 2022
Here's what you need to know about accepting web
cookies.<snip>
Caller ID is convenient — no one can deny that. Seeing
who's calling you is immensely useful, as it lets you take calls from people
you actually want to hear from, and filter out the spam.
However, there are times that you might want to block
your own number, so it won't appear on caller ID. Maybe you're trying to
surprise a significant other or call a company that you don't want to hear from
again.
Whatever your reason, it's easy to block your phone
number, no matter what kind of phone you have. Once you do, you'll show up as
"Anonymous" or "Private" on the recipient's phone.
Important: You can't block your caller ID when calling
911 or 800 numbers. Additionally, some phones are programmed not to accept
calls from blocked numbers.
Use the *67 code
*67 is a "vertical service code" —
Specifically, adding *67 to the start of any phone number will block your
caller ID when you call that number.
This is a quick and temporary way to block your number
when making calls. Nearly all phone service providers support it, it works on
both smartphones and landlines, and it's totally free.
https://www.businessinsider.com/tech-reference
https://www.businessinsider.com/tech-reference/software-apps
ALT CODES REFERENCE SHEET.
Free Download from www.UsefulShortcuts.com.
Hold down the "Alt" key then enter the code on
the numeric keypad with Num Lock on. Even works in email and notepad! Symbols, foreign language characters,
bullets, arrows ►█♫╪¢¼→▬↨↑↓→←
https://www.payetteforward.com
apple products help website. John gives it 5 stars.
Senior Community Services Minnetonka (Main) Office 10201 Wayzata Blvd. Suite 335
Minnetonka, MN 55305
(952) 541-1019 reimagineaging@seniorcommunity.org
https://seniorcommunity.org/services/tech-support-services/
https://seniorcommunity.org/services/tech-support-services/tech-resources-for-older-adults/
We have Linux Mint installed on an older laptop which ran
windows 10...poorly.
I runs well with Linux Mint...you can try it on a
Tuesday!
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Linux_Mint
https://easylinuxtipsproject.blogspot.com/p/mint-xfce-old.html
https://easylinuxtipsproject.blogspot.com/p/first-mint-xfce-old.html#ID2.1
dentex youtube downloader demo [android phone or tablet] https://dentex.github.io https://wikipediatech.com/home/blog/20-best-free-youtube-video-downloader-apps/
20 tip article links per page...73 pages!
https://www.pcmag.com/authors/lance-whitney
five tip article links per page...just select "see
more" at page bottom!
https://www.pcmag.com/news/the-20-most-influential-pcs-of-the-past-40-years
The 20 Most Influential PCs of the Past 40 Years As PCMag
celebrates its 40th anniversary, we take a look back at the computers that had
the greatest impact on us and the industry, from a 16K beige box to a
cutting-edge convertible that redefined mobile computing.
[full of fun short articles about PCs of yore...some are
part of my computing history. BUT, notably, none from Commodore or Tandy!]
How to resist digital hoarding By Minh Uong The New York Times <snip>
Tidying up your digital media may not feel worthwhile
because your files are not visible in the real world. Yet holding on to all the
data takes up valuable space on devices while also making important files more
difficult to find. The professionals recommended a process of purging and
labeling what’s left. Here’s how it would work:<snip> Do an annual
clearance of the files you no longer need.
To streamline this process on a computer, open a folder
and sort the files by when they were last opened. From there, you can
immediately eliminate the files you have not opened in years.
On your smartphone, prune unnecessary apps that are
taking up space. On iPhones, Apple offers the tool iPhone Storage, which shows
a list of apps that take up the most data and when they were last used; on
Android devices, Google offers a similar tool called Files. From here, you can
home in on the data hogs and delete the apps you have not touched in months.
https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201656
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.nbu.files&hl=en_US
Thanks to MSCIG for this page filled with helpful article
links!
https://mscig.wordpress.com/windows-tips/
quick reference guides
https://www.customguide.com/quick-reference
Handy cheat sheets with tips, tricks, and shortcuts
Smarter people than I give important advice:
https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/guides/how-to-securely-wipe-your-computer-devices/
Your computer, phone, or tablet holds all kinds of
personal information about you, and before you sell, return, recycle, or donate
it, you should make sure to delete all of that information correctly. On most
devices, wiping your data securely is pretty straightforward, and doing so can
prevent your data from being recovered by someone you would rather not have it.
How you do this depends on which operating system you have and what type of
storage drive your device has.
https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/guides/how-to-back-up-your-computer/
When was the last time you backed up all your important
documents and photos? Last month? Last year? Never? Setting up a good backup
system can seem time-consuming and intimidating, but it’s neither. Anyone can
do it, and everyone should. In less than 15 minutes you can have a system that
backs up your files automatically—both to an external drive and to encrypted
cloud storage—without any regular action from you.
Federal Trade Commission Consumer Information Computer
Security Tips; Online Shopping - Security Tips; Hacked Email - What to Do; How
to Avoid a Tech Support Scam; Protect Your Computer from Malware https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/media?sort=title
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_Archive
The Internet Archive is an American digital library with
the stated mission of "universal access to all knowledge". It provides free public access to collections
of digitized materials, including websites, software applications/games, music,
movies/videos, moving images, and millions of books.
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-avoid-social-media-scams
Are They Your Real Friends? Watch Out for This Social
Media Scam Crafty hackers are posing as people you know on social platforms and
using malicious links to lock you out of your account. We tell you how to avoid
an account takeover.
By Kim Key May
17, 2022
As long as social media platforms have been around, there
have been hackers attempting to take control of accounts. Facebook accounts
often contain your real name, email address, birth date, relationship status,
and physical address. In addition to storing all your private messages, photos,
and feed posts, Facebook is also used to log in to other websites. If a hacker
manages to take over your Facebook account, they may have access to some of
your other accounts around the web. The same goes for Instagram, which is also
owned by Meta.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/picks/best-free-software
The Best Free Software of 2022
By Eric Griffith
April 12, 2022
You want powerful software? You don't have to pay for it.
Everything you need to be productive and secure on your PC is on this list, and
it's all totally free. [although prices are shown for upgrading from some free
versions....] Categories
Audio/Video Communication
Writing and Design Entertainment
Imaging Productivity
Security Utilities
APCUG presentation on chromebooks -vs- windows and apple
laptops Starts at 3:00 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QwxK7godyDk
Where is US Internet fiber building or serving in SLP?
Look at the map!
https://usinternet.com/fiber/coverage-map/
Free digital photography course
Date: December 20, 2019
Author: cynmackley
Here’s an amazing find for anyone who wants to learn more
about digital photography. Instructor
Marc Levoy has posted the complete course he taught on digital photography at
Stanford University online and you can watch the lectures absolutely free! What a great deal. The course consists of 18
video lectures that you can watch at your own pace.
https://sites.google.com/site/marclevoylectures/home
Alternative to Unzip files
Date: November 15, 2019
Author: cynmackley
What's another program besides WinZip for unzipping
zipped files?
The easiest option for unzipping files in Windows is to
use Windows’ built-in tools for extracting files. All you need to do is click
on the icon to open File Explorer.
Locate the folder or folders you wish to unzip. Most
likely, they’ll be in the Downloads folder. Then click to select.
At the top of File Explorer, Compressed Folder Tools will
open. If it doesn’t automatically jump
to that tab, click on it. Then choose
Extract all.
Then select the destination folder for the extracted
files and click on Extract. If you wish to see the extracted files when the
process is complete, make sure to tick the box next to Show extracted files
when complete.
Windows 10: Shake It Up!
Date: March 24, 2020
Author: cynmackley
Here’s a nifty quick tip for clearing up a crowded
Windows desktop. If you have a bunch of windows open and your desktop is a
mess, you can fix that in a flash. Just click to select the top of the window
you want to keep open and move the mouse to ‘shake’ it. All of the windows will
close except for the one you’ve selected.
https://cynmackley.com/category/cyns-tech-tips/
DOZENS of short or longer articles on computer and device
helps.
https://cynmackley.com/2021/11/22/five-simple-rules-for-spotting-a-scam/
Five simple rules for spotting a scam
Date: November 22, 2021
Author: cynmackley
There are some basic truths which, if taken to heart, can
protect you from the majority of phone, email, and Internet scams. You may
already know them. If you do, feel free to share them with others, especially
young people. They’re far more likely to fall for scams.<snip>
Why Is My Internet So Slow? By Aaron Sankin April 12, 2022
Small tubes good, big tubes better.
https://themarkup.org/ask-the-markup/2022/04/12/why-is-my-internet-so-slow
We’ve all been there: very politely asking the internet
for a video of a cat engaging in some wacky antics. And then … the internet
pauses, seeming to consider the request.
What’s the problem here? It might be you (sorry). It
might be the infrastructure you’re working with. It might be your internet
provider. Let’s explore some causes and solutions together. <snip>
The original word game.
https://www.nytimes.com/games/wordle/index.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wordle
Play four word games simultaneously, in nine tries.
word game featuring Canadian words and also regular words
with Canadian angle.
https://canucklegame.github.io/canuckle/
Wordmaster [wordle clone]
https://octokatherine.github.io/word-master/
Master list of wordle-like websites.
The above are some of the ~50 clones listed there!
https://rwmpelstilzchen.gitlab.io/wordles/
Cyber-Seniors provides FREE technology support and
training for senior citizens.
https://www.youtube.com/user/CyberSeniors/videos
www.cyberseniors.org/seniors-services/previous-webinars
Six Freeware Websites
https://www.soft32.com/all-software/?rel=footer
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FileHippo
https://www.freewaregenius.com/
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/save-time-with-microsoft-words-built-in-transcription-feature
Save Time With Microsoft Word's Built-In Transcription
Feature Thanks to a powerful new productivity enhancement, Microsoft 365
subscribers can now transcribe audio files with multiple speakers, at no extra
cost. Our tips and tricks show you how to save time and money with Transcribe.
By Jill Duffy
September 16, 2020
Microsoft recently announced a new feature in Word that
automatically transcribes audio files, specifically conversations between two
or more speakers. For people who regularly record interviews, talks, and other
conversations, this new transcription tool lets them get written text of their
audio files with very little work and no extra cost, which is all a
productivity boost.<snip> [I
haven’t tried it since my workplace MS office word isn’t word 365]
Microsoft Office Lens is one of very few scanning apps
that's completely free. It's slightly slower and clunkier than other apps, but
it gets the job done. The app has special modes for scanning whiteboards,
documents, business cards, and photos. When you scan something, your phone's
camera flash will go off automatically if it's needed, although you can bypass
that setting if you prefer. The app also lets you import images from your
phone's photo collections.
After you capture a file, you can adjust the borders of
the image, or continue scanning to make a multipage document. Microsoft Lens
has annotation tools and filters, too, for making documents black and white,
for example. To be able to edit the text you scan, you must select the Word
option when saving, export the text via Microsoft OneDrive, and then open the
document in Word.
Available on Android, iOS, Windows [have not tried, but plan to demo for CB at
LenoxCC] https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/microsoft-office-lens-for-android
https://www.theverge.com/22372372/google-stack-paperwork-documents-scan-pdf-how-to
Google’s Stack is a clever, if incomplete, way to
digitize and organize documents Get all your paperwork scanned and stored [needs Android OS7] By Barbara Krasnoff Apr 8, 2021 Having to deal with paperwork is
a real pain, whether it’s hardcopy or digital. Tax documents, explanations of
benefits from insurance companies, purchase receipts, prescriptions, bills,
vaccination cards — the list of daily paperwork goes on and on. And of course,
when you suddenly need to find that receipt for your two-year-old laptop, it’s
nowhere to be found.
Google’s latest experimental app, Stack, is meant to help make that part of your life easier. A product of Google’s Area 120 incubator, Stack is designed to be the place where you can keep PDF copies of all those documents. As mentioned in our initial article, Stack borrows the technology underlying Google’s powerful DocAI enterprise tool for document analysis so it can organize them into categories — or, in Google-speak, stacks — and allow you to search for words within the text.<snip> [have not tried but plan to for CB at LenoxCC]
How to Troubleshoot Basic Computer Problems to Fix Your
Computer March 10, 2022 https://techboomers.com/how-to-troubleshoot-basic-computer-problem
What is troubleshooting?
10 common computer problems and how to troubleshoot them
7 general tips for troubleshooting computer problems
The easy way to install Windows 11 on unsupported CPUs Microsoft’s own registry hack makes upgrades painless By Sean Hollister@StarFire2258 Oct 7, 2021 Did you take one look at our hefty Windows 11 upgrade checklist and nope right out of there? It turns out there’s a dramatically easier way to install Windows 11 on computers with older CPUs — with no need to reformat your drive, erase your files, or even burn the ISO to an external USB drive.
Any Video Converter is a video converter developed by
Anvsoft Inc. for Microsoft Windows and macOS. It is available in both a free
and paid version. Any Video Converter Windows version won the CNET Downloads 5
star award in 2012. Wikipedia Stable release: 7.1.1 / April 2, 2021; 11 months
ago
Developer(s): Anvsoft Inc
Operating system: Microsoft Windows, macOS
Size: 67 MB (full), 67 MB (free)
https://www.any-video-converter.com/en6/for_video_free/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Any_Video_Converter
https://alternativeto.net/software/any-video-converter/
The “proximity effect”.
The closer you get the problem to the person who can fix it, the less likely the problem is to occur. www.askleo.com
https://helpdeskgeek.com/author/akishorehdg/ 28 pages of helpful article descriptions/links... 15 on each page!
Aseem Kishore is the founder and CEO of AK Internet Consulting, Inc., an umbrella company that own Online Tech Tips, Help Desk Geek, The Back Room Tech and Switching to Mac. He’s been blogging since 2007, when he started his first site, Online Tech Tips, on Google’s Blogger.com as a way to document all the issues he was troubleshooting while working in IT.
https://helpdeskgeek.com/how-to/99-ways-to-make-your-computer-blazingly-fast/
99 Ways to Make Your Computer Blazingly Fast. Squeeze the last bit of juice from your old or new PC
https://helpdeskgeek.com/free-tools-review/best-freeware-programs-for-windows/
99 of the Best Windows Freeware Programs You May Not Know Of
https://www.newyorker.com/culture/infinite-scroll/what-google-search-isnt-showing-you
What Google Search Isn’t Showing You
The search engine has made up so much of our online experience for so long that it can be hard to imagine something better.
By Kyle Chayka March 10, 2022
When I recently Googled “best toaster” on my phone, thinking about replacing the appliance in my apartment kitchen, the search immediately yielded a carrousel of images of products from various high-design brands...<snip>
Word games on your tablet or smartphone
https://play.google.com/store/apps/category/GAME_WORD
http://ios-compatible.com/us/ipad-ios9/games/word/free/1/#content
https://www.peoplefun.com/games
" Search" Android 6, iOS10; "Bloom" Android 6, iOS12
"Wordscapes" Android 4.4; "Uncrossed" Android 4.4, iOS 12
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/12-tips-to-speed-up-windows-10-windows-11
Senior Computer Buddy, Fred Lewis, shared the following -- How Bluetooth got its name. Here is the story: It was named after Harald Bluetooth, who was king of Denmark between 940 and 981. During his rule, Denmark and Norway were united, so Ericsson, the company that developed the technology, used the analogy that he "allowed greater communication between people" when naming their wireless communication protocol.
More Bluetooth info at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bluetooth
My Email Disappeared While Composing. Can I Get it Back? The case of the disappearing message.
It's no fun to write a long email and lose it. Here's how that happens and a few ways to avoid it.
https://askleo.com/2630
No, Your Facebook Account Has Not Been Hacked. When jumping to conclusions leads you astray.
There's a common situation that leads people to think their Facebook account has been hacked. They're wrong.
https://askleo.com/133589
Can a USB Flash Drive Wear Out?
https://askleo.com/flash-drive-wear-out
Nothing lasts forever. by Leo A. Notenboom While the technology continues to improve, flash memory has a limited number of times it can be written to and can, in fact, wear out.
How Long Will My SSD Last? Estimating life expectancy.
We keep hearing that SSDs and other flash-based drives wear out. Particularly when it comes to SSDs, there are ways you can see how close to wearing out your drive might be.
https://askleo.com/133201
http://ios-compatible.com/
Find games which can run on your OLD iPhone, iPad, iPod
https://www.thewindowsclub.com/windows-11-tutorial-for-beginners
How to use Windows 11 – Tutorial for Beginners Windows 11 is now officially available for download worldwide. Microsoft has released it as a free upgrade, which means you do not need to pay to upgrade your computer to Windows 11. It is available for free download for all eligible Windows 10 computer systems and will also be served pre-loaded on new PCs.
The new operating system comes with a completely new and fresh interface, new apps and features, and some functionality changes and if you are a beginner or if you have just bought a new PC with pre-loaded Windows 11, this post is just for you. Today, in this post, we will be sharing everything you need to know about Windows 11.
https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/other/zero-click-hacks-are-growing-in-popularity-theres-practically-no-way-to-stop-them/ar-AATYHpv
‘Zero-Click’ Hacks Are Growing in Popularity. There’s Practically No Way to Stop Them A “zero-click” attack allows a hacker to break into a phone or computer even if its user doesn’t open a malicious link or attachment. Hackers instead exploit a series of security flaws in operating systems — such as Apple Inc.’s iOS or Google’s Android — to breach a device without having to dupe their victim into taking any action. Once inside, they can install spyware capable of stealing data, listening in on calls and tracking the user’s location.<snip>
FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION'S Consumer Information on internet scams
https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/media?sort=title
How to Stop Windows Apps From Launching at Startup Too many startup apps can be a drag on your PC’s performance. Here's how to prevent apps from automatically starting when you sign into Windows 10 or 11.
By Lance Whitney February 1, 2022
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/stop-windows-10-apps-from-launching-at-startup
Office 42 is an award winning office suite with a focus on portability, speed, ease of use, productivity and customizability. It includes a text editor, web browser and personal organizer. Office 42 is ideal for older PCs because it consumes very little space and system resources. Office 42 is free and open source and is not designed to replace similar products but rather to run alongside them. It features a classic style which will be familiar to MS Office users and new users.
https://www.softpedia.com/get/PORTABLE-SOFTWARE/Office/Suites-editors/Office-42-Portable.shtml
Safe sources for windows software...mostly freeware
https://www.filepuma.com/
https://www.downloadcrew.com/
https://www.filehorse.com/
Remix Mini Android desktop computer
https://fccid.io/2AF86-RM1G/User-Manual/User-Manual-2796240
https://www.techradar.com/reviews/pc-mac/pc-mac-desktops/jide-remix-mini-1327646/review
https://www.engadget.com/2016-01-19-remix-mini-android-pc.html
https://tech-ish.com/2016/05/23/remix-mini-review-android-pc-jide/
https://www.yugatech.com/personal-computing/remix-mini-android-pc-quick-review/#sthash.dQUm7fSz.dpbs
https://www.androidpolice.com/2015/12/19/jide-remix-mini-android-desktop-pc-review-interesting-software-let-down-by-bargain-bin-hardware/
https://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/jide-remix-mini-android-mini-pc,4542.html
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0177OAIIK
https://www.walmart.com/ip/Jide-Remix-Mini-Allwinner-A53-Quad-Core-Processor-1-2-GHz-2GB-RAM-16GB-Storage-True-Android-Desktop-PC-Black/55434916
https://www.jebiga.com/remix-mini-android-pc/
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/jidetech/remix-mini-the-worlds-first-true-android-pc
https://stacksocial.com/sales/remix-mini-portable-android-pc
12 Safe Websites for Downloading Windows Software By Sayak Boral Jun 14, 2021
https://www.maketecheasier.com/websites-download-windows-software/
20 Google Search Tips You'll Want to Learn https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/google-search-tips-youll-want-to-learn
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/technology/google-deceived-consumers-about-how-it-profits-from-their-location-data-attorneys-general-allege-in-lawsuits/ar-AAT5ADk
Google deceived consumers about how it profits from their location data, attorneys general allege in lawsuits
-----------------------------------------------
OTA over-the-air TV and www-TV channels
https://www.rabbitears.info/market.php?request=print_market&mktid=20
https://localnow.com/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Local_Now
https://www.heyitsfree.net/how-stream-tv-online-free/
http://www.freeintertv.com/main/USA-1-0-desc-1
MSP OTA TV infos
https://www.tvtv.us/mn/minneapolis/55416/luUSA-OTA55416
www.titantv.com
What I Do When Software Stops Working. I had a serious problem with an app I rely on in Windows 10. I'll walk you through my experience solving it, and show how the process relates to you.
https://askleo.com/132928
It's Important You Know: There Are Ads in Search Results. These are not always the results you're looking for.
It's absolutely critical you learn to recognize the difference between advertisements and actual search results.
https://askleo.com/133230
Your 6 Strongest Practical Password Techniques, ranked from best to worst.
https://askleo.com/132876
What's the Difference Between an Email Account, an Email Address, an Email Program, and an Email Service?
Terminology around email can be confusing. I'll review some common and important terms.
https://askleo.com/4436
Remove ads from MS Edge Browser home page:
https://www.google.com/search?hl=en&source=hp&biw=&bih=&q=remove+ads+from+microsoft+edge+home+page
Links to "Advice from people smarter than...me".
Can be found at the blog:
http://seniorcomputerbuddies.blogspot.com/
Here's an example of a source of links [9, this week] I share...you can subscribe to this weekly email just as I do, when you visit their weekly webpage:
http://secure.campaigner.com/csb/Public/show/g6xi-2hmf4l--xo28x-g9x60wy2
or,
their webpage with 20 tips and links to 67 more pages like it!:
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to
PCMag Tips, Tricks & How-To
How to Block Robocalls and Spam Calls
Are you getting too many phone calls from spammers and telemarketers? Here are some steps you can take to battle those annoying, unknown callers.
25 Tips Every Apple Watch Owner Should Know Whether you're just starting out with the Series 7 or have owned an Apple smartwatch for years, our quick tips will help you make the most of the Apple Watch.
Topic Was -- MS Office 365 alternatives
https://www.google.com/search?client=opera&q=alternative+to+microsoft+office&sourceid=opera&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8
https://alternativeto.net/software/microsoft-office-suite/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Comparison_of_office_suites
Topic was -- Finding Free e-books on the web https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/the-best-6-sites-to-get-free-ebooks/
The 10 Best Free Ebook Download Sites BY DAN PRICE AUG 23, 2021
https://www.maketecheasier.com/website-download-free-ebooks/
10 of the Best Free Ebook Download Libraries By David Jeff / Updated Aug 30, 2021
https://mashable.com/article/free-ebooks
12 places for thrifty bookworms to download the best free e-books
There's no better price than free. By Kyli Singh on July 14, 2021
https://www.tckpublishing.com/websites-download-free-ebooks/
29 Best Websites to Download Free Ebooks by Tom Corson-Knowles | 167 comments
https://www.sodapdf.com/blog/best-sites-free-ebook-downloads/
https://www.bullguard.com/blog/2015/05/top-20-sites-to-download-free-ebooks.html
https://www.fossmint.com/best-sites-to-download-free-ebooks/
My original search page was...
https://www.google.com/search?client=opera&q=10+of+the+best+free+ebook+download+libraries&sourceid=opera&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8
===== 11-26-2021 Articles and websites Links =====
Advice from people smarter than...me.
How Should I Back Up an Encrypted Disk? Make sure you can access it later. Backing up an encrypted hard drive shouldn't be difficult, but it's important to understand what you'll get.
https://askleo.com/25401
How to Tell What's Running in the Background on Your PC. So. Much. Stuff. Windows runs a lot of software even when you're doing nothing at all. We'll dive into how to examine what's really running, and what to do with the information you glean.
https://askleo.com/132502
How Do I Make Sure Windows is Really, Completely Up to Date? "As up to date as possible" is an important recommendation.
Keeping Windows up to date is normally handled cleanly by Windows itself. There are times you may want to force the issue to ensure your machine is as up to date as possible.
https://askleo.com/132414
Why Does Email to Me Bounce with "Inbox Full"? What to do when you're over quota. When you use a desktop email program, it's possible for the inbox on your PC to be empty, but the inbox on your email service provider to be full.
https://askleo.com/132398
How Do I Update Drivers on My Computer? Make sure your computer is as up to date as it should be. Drivers are critically important components of your computer, but knowing how and when to update drivers isn't as easy or as obvious as we might like.
https://askleo.com/3084
What Do I Do About Websites Bugging Me About Notifications? Make them go away ' even if they just want to be helpful.
Responding to notification permissions is annoying. In some browsers, we can turn that off completely.
https://askleo.com/66438
How Do I Access Gmail Without Phone Verification? Getting into your account without your phone. There are a number of ways to confirm your identity if you don't have your phone. The catch is that most have to be set up before you need them.
https://askleo.com/132209
How Do I Get Off Email Lists I Don't Want to be On? To unsubscribe or not to unsubscribe: that is the question. The answer depends on how you got there.
https://askleo.com/73487
What Should I Do If I Accidentally Click on a Phishing Link? What to do in that moment of regret. Accidentally clicking a phishing link might be benign if you catch it soon enough. If not, you may need to take recovery actions to save your account and/or machine.
https://askleo.com/132182
How Do I Make Sure I Don't Have Malware? An important answer you need to understand. It's impossible to know your machine has no malware. What does that mean for your safety?
https://askleo.com/44103
https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/blog/use-zoom-like-a-pro/
8 Tips for How to Use Zoom Like a Pro
Updated June 25, 2021 Ben Keough
If you’re new to working from home, there’s a pretty good chance that you’re also new to using Zoom—our pick for the best videoconferencing service. We’re not the only ones who like it: Zoom has added millions of users over the past few months as teams shift to remote work in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.
But although it’s easy to get up and running with Zoom, you may not be aware of some of its best, most useful features (many of which are buried in advanced setting menus). At Wirecutter, we’ve been using Zoom daily for years, and we’ve learned a few tricks along the way. Here’s what you need to know to get the most out of the service, even if you’re using only the free, basic version.<snip>
https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/blog/how-to-disposable-email-phone-numbers-credit-cards/
How a Burner Identity Protects Your Inbox, Phone, and Credit Cards
Published June 28, 2021 Thorin Klosowski
Between vaccine appointment notifications, store pickups, online food ordering, and a general increase in online ordering, I feel like I’ve created three times as many online accounts in the past 18 months than I did in all previous years combined.
Handing out any sort of personal information, whether it’s an email address or a phone number, can lead to spam, data breaches, or harassment. More abstractly, it can also enable tracking by data brokers—companies that take identifiable bits of data, including phone numbers, email addresses, and device-specific identifiers (such as a browser fingerprint or device ID that’s linked to a phone or computer) and then aggregate that data into a marketing profile. One way to protect your personal details from both individuals and corporations is to use alternate details, which you can generate through a number of tools. These “burner” identity tools create disposable email addresses, credit card numbers, and phone numbers, all of which can help protect your main accounts while you do just about anything online.<snip>
https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/guides/privacy-tips-for-android-phone/
10 Practical Privacy Tips for Your Android Phone
By Thorin Klosowski October 19, 2021
We’ve updated this article for Android 12, including information about the new Privacy Dashboard, as well as new camera and mic controls.
Your Android phone likely includes records of everywhere you go alongside most, if not all, of your digital communication and internet search history. Although it’s impossible to have perfect privacy on any smartphone, there are plenty of settings you can adjust to minimize the amount of data that companies collect about you.
Being privacy aware on an operating system run by Google—a company that makes money in part by mining data about its users—might seem like a silly endeavor, but the Android OS provides you with tools to control some of your data. Although you’ll never be totally off the grid from your cell provider, and it’s nearly impossible to block everything that tracks you across every platform, it is possible to at least approach your smartphone’s privacy settings practically. Some of these settings come at the cost of convenience, so consider the trade-offs before you disable (or enable) the items we detail below. (These settings will vary depending on which version of Android you have and which phone you have.)<snip>
https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/guides/iphone-privacy-tips/
16 Practical Privacy Tips for Your iPhone
By Thorin Klosowski September 20, 2021
Your smartphone is an extension of your brain, filled with all your emails, search history, and communication with other people. Regardless of whether you’re concerned about corporations collecting your data to monetize your habits or a snooping roommate with a penchant for side-eyeing your incoming messages, or you just don’t want some random stranger to gain access to everything in your phone, here are the settings to change on your iPhone for increased privacy.
Using a smartphone is always a risk when it comes to privacy. Your cell provider tracks your location all the time, and it’s nearly impossible to identify exactly what data each app collects and sells. But everyone can take a few steps to mitigate privacy concerns. Some of these steps come at the cost of convenience, but we’ll explain how each setting works so that you can decide what’s worth the trade-off for you.<snip>
===== 11-19-2021 Articles and websites Links =====
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/10-easy-tips-and-tricks-for-better-smartphone-photos
10 Easy Tips and Tricks for Better Smartphone Photos For many, phones have completely replaced dedicated digital cameras, but even pros reach for their iPhones or Samsung Galaxy phones to snap images from time to time. Here's how to take better pics with your smartphone.
By Jim Fisher November 16, 2021
Your smartphone is always with you, a constant companion that can connect to the web to look up any tiny nugget of trivia, and generally keep you in constant contact with the outside world. It's one of the key items you grab before leaving the house, and the last time you (probably) turned it off was at the movie theater.
This also makes your phone your take-everywhere, shoot-anything digital camera. Just a few short years ago, making images and video with smartphones was a compromise, with poorer image quality but a heck of a lot more convenience than a good point-and-shoot camera.
But times have changed and phone cameras have gotten better and better. The latest models offer superior imaging and video to budget point-and-shoot cameras, and offer nifty software tricks to blur backgrounds, just like an SLR and f/2 or f/1.4 lens.
Check out these tips to get the best images you can get from your phone. But remember, even with the latest tech, phones aren't as versatile imaging tools as modern interchangeable lens cameras. An iPhone 13 is better than a basic point-and-shoot, but not as versatile as a full-frame camera. <snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-turn-off-or-customize-notifications-in-ios
How to Turn Off or Customize Notifications on iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch Is your iPhone overrun with notifications? Manage or silence them with Do Not Disturb and the Focus feature.
By Lance Whitney November 12, 2021
Notifications on your iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch can come in handy, but you don’t always want to be bothered by phone calls, texts, and all other types of notifications. Whether you're busy or just want some quiet time, you can control and disable notifications on your device for specific contacts and apps.
Apple’s Do Not Disturb has long been the easiest way to turn off notifications, but the company has revamped this capability in iOS 15, iPadOS 15, and watchOS 8 with the addition of Focus. You can now more easily control notifications for when you’re asleep or driving. There is also the ability to set up profiles for your personal life and work life.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/factory-reset-apple-mac
How to Factory Reset a Mac
Looking to reset your computer to its factory settings? MacOS Monterey makes it a little easier than before, but you have options no matter your Mac or OS version.
By Jason Cohen November 17, 2021
Macs are generally reliable. But as with any computer, sometimes things go wrong. Before you spend big on a new Mac, though, try a factory reset, which wipes your computer and reinstalls a clean version of macOS. A factory reset is also the best way to prepare your old computer for a new owner to make sure no leftover data falls into the wrong hands.
The process has been the same for years on Macs with Intel processers, however, the move to Apple silicon has slightly altered the method for wiping and reinstalling the OS. And with the jump to macOS Monterey, certain computers gain a new option to erase all content and settings. Here's how to erase your hard drive and reinstall the operating system on your Mac, whether it has Apple's M1 chip or features Intel components.
Be aware that once your computer has been reset, you will no longer be able to recover any deleted data that was left on the drive. If you think you may still need what is on your hard drive, we advise you to first back it up through Time Machine or by syncing important files to iCloud.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/10-things-to-know-before-you-buy-refurbished-electronics
10 Things to Know Before You Buy Refurbished Electronics Buying a refurbished device can help you save money, but don’t go into it blind. These tips will help you get a deal and avoid being ripped off when buying refurbished laptops, TVs, phones, and other electronics.
By Eric Griffith November 15, 2021
There's a simple reason to buy refurbished tech instead of a brand new device—saving money. It's also nice to avoid sending a gadget to the landfill. And there's the added bonus this holiday season: Brand new products are in short supply due to ongoing issues with the supply chain and distributing goods to stores is getting more and more difficult. Plus, there's the continued worldwide processor shortage. If you go for a refurbished product, it won't be subject to shipping delays, because it's already there to buy. <snip>
Free Software websites
https://ninite.com/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ninite
https://www.howtogeek.com/290358/what-is-a-portable-app-and-why-does-it-matter/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portable_application
https://portableapps.com/apps
https://www.snapfiles.com/features/portable-apps.html
https://www.portablefreeware.com/all.php
===== 11-12-2021 Articles and websites Links =====
Advice articles from someone smarter than John!
How Do I Switch Back to the Old Facebook Layout? Dealing with things that keep changing. Every time Facebook makes a change to its interface, many people want to go back to what was. I'll discuss just how realistic that desire is.
https://askleo.com/131952
How to Reinstall Windows 10 Without Media. The steps to do it yourself. The best way to prepare for needing an installation disc is to create one before you need it. I'll review some approaches.
https://askleo.com/90182
What's the Best Place to Learn About Windows 10? So many places. There are as many sources of beginner's information as there are beginners, it seems. The best approach is to try a few and see which works best for you.
https://askleo.com/131927
Can Browser Extensions See My Bank Account? Something important you need to consider for every extension you install.
Browser extensions are often installed with little thought to the immense security risk they present.
https://askleo.com/131915
How Do I Remove Malware that Blocks Downloads? It can be done, but it might take effort. Some malware goes to great lengths to prevent you from downloading, running, or applying a fix. I'll tell you what steps to take.
https://askleo.com/4686
Should Your Username be More Like a Password? Only if you like to make things more complicated than they need to be.
Occasionally people suggest that usernames should be treated like passwords. While there's some merit to the idea, it's ultimately impractical.
https://askleo.com/131745
What Comes After Terabytes? More and more bytes. What Comes After Terabytes? Zetabytes? Petaflops? Gigahertz? Confusing terms for our computers' ever-increasing capacity and speed.
https://askleo.com/131697
Why size and size are two different things. How Pixels, DPI, Resolution, Picture Size, and File Size All Relate. Photographic images have a number of characteristics that we often don't consider or understand. I'll review how digital pictures are constructed and stored, and what you need to keep in mind when sharing or publishing.
https://askleo.com/5947
Can't I Just Copy Everything to Back Up? Only if you really can copy everything. (Spoiler: you can't.) It's tempting to just use file-copy tools to back up what you think you need. But you can easily miss something very important.
https://askleo.com/3117
===== 11-5-2021 Articles and websites Links =====
https://cyberseniors.org/
Cyber-Seniors provides FREE
technology support and training for senior citizens.
ABOUT US
Founded in 2015 by the creators of the award-winning documentary film CYBER-SENIORS, this non-profit organization provides senior citizens with tech-training using an intergenerational, volunteer model. Young people are provided with lessons and learning activities to train them to act as digital mentors and senior citizens gain access to effective technology training and intergenerational communities that keep them socially connected and engaged.
https://cyberseniors.org/seniors-services/previous-webinars/
the webinars are now youtube videos you stream when convenient for your schedule.
They also have live webinars that someday will be on youtube.
Filter By your Favorite Topics
Amazon Android Apple Buying Technology
Cyber Security Device Basics Español Exercise
Food Delivery Services Français Google Microsoft
Mobile Apps Music Streaming Non-Tech Online Services
Photo, Videos, and Editing Podcasts Ride-Share Apps
Search Engines Smart Technology Social Media Telemedicine
Video Calling Video Streaming
Featured Webinars
get videos from social media. Some are websites that download, some are software you download and install on your computer. Most work best using windows 10.
https://fdown.net/
https://www.getfvid.com/
https://bigbangram.com/content/facebook-video-downloader/
https://snapsave.app/
https://fbdownloader.net/
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-download-videos-from-facebook
https://www.softwaretestinghelp.com/facebook-video-downloader/
https://www.softwaretestinghelp.com/facebook-video-downloader/
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/best-windows-11-tips-and-tricks
The Best Windows 11 Tips and Tricks
Windows 11 gives Microsoft's venerable OS a new look and adds a few features you'll want to tweak or customize.
By Jason Cohen October 26, 2021
Windows 11, the latest iteration of Microsoft's long-running operating system, is here—at least for those with supported PCs. If you take the leap, you'll notice a slick redesign, with a Chrome OS-like centered taskbar and rounded corners on apps. Under the hood, it's largely the same OS, but there are some new features you should know how to use. These tips will help ease the transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11.
Realign the Start Button
A Simplified Right-Click Menu
Customize the Quicks Setting Panel
Easier Desktop Management
Gather Your Widgets
More Multitask Layouts
Chat With Teams
Get Things Done With Focus Sessions
Streamlined File Explorer Menu
Pair Input/Output Devices
New Sound Modes
View the App List
Pins Apps to the Start Menu
Customize the Start Menu
Get Better Recommendations
Change Default Apps
Choose Your Theme
Better Battery Visualization
Get Used to the New Touch Gestures
Run Android Apps (in Beta)<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-stay-anonymous-online
How to Completely Disappear From the Internet We live in a world of mass surveillance. Want to mask your online identity? Here's the right way to do it.
By Eric Griffith Updated October 22,
Some might say the internet was built on anonymity, paving the way for a place where free speech reigns supreme. But after years of learning about who's snooping into everything we do online, privacy on the web is hardly a given.
It's not just about government spying; it's also about how much data big companies such as Amazon, Google, Facebook, and Microsoft have collected in order to serve up targeted ads—not to mention how much of your personal data gets scooped up in all the breaches and hacks.
There are always going to be good reasons for people to go online without being tracked. For one, anonymity may be the only way for a real whistleblower to reveal corruption, considering how some have been treated. But there's nothing wrong with wanting to stay anonymous, no matter what you're doing.
Is it even possible to take control of your own personal privacy online? Ultimately, the only way to stay truly anonymous online is...not to go online at all. That's not a real option for most of us, though. Here's a rundown of what you can do to minimize spying, targeted ads, and ID theft as you explore the online world.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/3-free-ways-to-run-android-apps-on-your-pc
5 Free Ways to Run Android Apps on Your PC Want to use Android apps on a PC? These are the apps, services, and OSes that can make it happen.
By Whitson Gordon & Jason Cohen
Updated October 26, 2021
Ever wish you could run an Android app or game on your PC so you weren't relegated to a tiny phone screen? Maybe you need to test a feature on Android, but don't have an Android device handy. Your options will depend on what mobile device you own or what version of Windows you're running, but here are a few ways to run Android (and its apps) on your computer.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-set-up-and-use-a-vpn
How to Set Up and Use a VPN
A VPN is one of the simplest ways to protect your privacy online. Best of all, installing and using a VPN app is easy. Whether you're working from home because of COVID-19 or you're using unsecured Wi-Fi in a coffee shop, this is how to do so safely!
By Max Eddy Updated August 11, 2021
It might sound paranoid to say you should use a virtual private network (VPN) as often as possible, but there are real threats to your privacy. Whenever you connect to the internet, your internet service provider (ISP) has access to everything you send and has been given the green light from Congress to sell your anonymized information to advertisers. If Coronavirus has forced you to start using public Wi-Fi, unscrupulous individuals can attempt to intercept your web traffic. Out on the wide-open internet, advertisers can track your movements between websites and discern your location by peeking at your IP address. And don't forget what three-letter government agencies may be up to—it's scary out there!
The fact is that the internet was created for easy information exchange, not user privacy, anonymization, or encrypted communication. While HTTPS goes a long way toward protecting your information, it doesn't guard against all ills. Unless and until a new, more private internet comes together—don't hold your breath—using a VPN is the easiest way to make sure that you're sharing as little information as possible.
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/best-google-docs-tips
Swapping Microsoft Word for Google Docs? 8 Simple Tips to Help You Get Started Google Docs is a free, web-based alternative to Microsoft Word. All you need is a Google account, an internet connection, and these tips and tricks.
By Jason Cohen August 9, 2021
Microsoft Word may be the most well-known word processor, but Google's cloud-based Docs is steadily eclipsing Redmond's venerable software among budget-conscious internet users. Not only is it free, but Google Docs offers seamless sharing options and is accessible on any computer or mobile device with a web connection.
Google's success prompted Microsoft to offer up internet-based versions of its Office suite, as well as a pared-down, free version of Microsoft Word for the web. And while Google Docs no longer offers unlimited storage for free, 15GB is a lot of Docs. If you've swapped Word for Google Docs, read on for a few hidden tricks. <snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-put-free-ebooks-on-your-amazon-kindle
How to Put Free Ebooks on Your Amazon Kindle Your Kindle isn't just restricted to reading books from Amazon. Here's how to convert various other ebooks formats for the Kindle, and where to get free ebooks.
By Sascha Segan & Chloe Albanesius Updated August 11, 2021
The Amazon Kindle is a great ebook reader, but it's tightly tied to Amazon's ecosystem. If you have a Fire tablet or a smartphone, you can download other e-reading apps to beef up your library, but with the E Ink Kindles (including the Paperwhite and Oasis) you're pretty much tied to getting your content directly from Amazon.
Well, sort of. Using a bit of free software, you can take ebooks in the EPUB, Mobi, and PDF formats and zap them over to your Kindle lickety-split. Here's how to do it.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/ditch-internet-explorer-how-to-make-the-switch-to-microsoft-edge
Ditch Internet Explorer: How to Make the Switch to Microsoft Edge It's almost the end of the line for Internet Explorer. If you want to stick with Microsoft, here's how to move your favorites, settings, and more from IE to the Edge browser.
By Lance Whitney August 11, 2021
Do you still use Internet Explorer at home or at work? If so, time’s running out. Microsoft will finally retire IE in June 2022, which means it will no longer be supported, updated, patched, or protected after that date. Windows 11 has already removed it completely.
There’s no reason to wait; browser choices abound. Chrome and Firefox are strong options, but if you want to stay in the Microsoft family, the Chromium-based Edge is a modern and streamlined alternative to Internet Explorer.
Before you can start using Edge, it’s a good idea to retain all your favorites, history, cookies, and other content and settings from your old browser. You can also change some settings in Edge to make it feel more like Internet Explorer. Here's how to get started. <snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/7-ways-to-tweak-your-windows-10-taskbar
13 Ways to Tweak Your Windows 10 Taskbar The Windows 10 Taskbar provides quick and easy access to your favorite apps, but it also offers several handy settings you can customize to improve how it works.
By Lance Whitney Updated July 7, 2021
The Windows Taskbar lets you access frequently used and currently open apps. It can also be tweaked to work the way you want. You can move it to other sides of the screen, automatically hide it when you don't need it, change the size of the icons, and more. Here's how. <snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-copy-large-files-from-your-phone-to-a-computer
How to Copy Large Files From Your Phone to Your Computer There are plenty of ways to transfer large files between Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android devices, including AirDrop, Google Photos, Bluetooth transfer, and third-party programs.
By Lance Whitney Updated August 2, 2021
You need to copy a huge file from your phone to a computer. Maybe it's a lengthy video or a large document. If the file is too large to transfer directly through email, a USB cable, or other conventional means, how can you get that big file on your computer?
Apple devices can use AirDrop to transfer the file to your computer. However, neither Windows nor Android support AirDrop. In that case, there are other options that work between Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android devices, including Google Photos, Nearby Share, and Bluetooth transfer, as well as third-party programs.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/top-zoom-tips-for-better-videoconferencing-in-a-locked-down-world
Top Zoom Tips for Better Video Calls
Almost a year into the pandemic and Zoom use is still zooming. These tips can help you make the most of the popular video conferencing app, whether it’s for work or a virtual lunch with friends.
By Jill Duffy Updated February 19, 2021
The video conferencing service Zoom has seen a huge surge in popularity and usage since he pandemic began in early 2020. Now it seems like everyone uses it for not only working from home and attending school from home, but also for book clubs, baby showers, birthdays, and hangouts.
Part of what makes Zoom one of the best video conferencing services is its resiliency at keeping calls going, despite wavering Wi-Fi and faltering 4G. Zoom elegantly figures out what to adjust on the backend to keep your call as smooth as possible, despite the occasional freeze.
Aside from its technical prowess, Zoom also has great features for making video calls better and more fun. You can smooth out your skin, drop in a virtual background, and automatically suppress loud noises. And yes, you can turn yourself into a cat, but—more importantly—do you know how to check that those settings are off before your next call?
These 10 tips highlight some of Zoom's best features and will help you get the most out of your video calls, whether you're working from home or just catching up with friends and family.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/free-up-hard-disk-space-on-windows-10
How to Free Up Hard Disk Space on Windows 10 Windows 10 can help you free up disk space with helpful tools like Storage Sense. Here’s how to remove temporary files, uninstall apps, and more.
By Lance Whitney Updated February 4, 2021
If you need to free up some disk space on your PC, Windows 10 provides a dedicated settings menu to make the process easier. From here, you can see how much space has been used on your device, and by what type of content. The Storage Sense feature will automatically remove temporary files, Recycle Bin items, and other items you may not need. Here’s how to view your internal storage and clear space quickly.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-fix-windows-pc-problems-via-a-restore-point
How to Prepare for a Windows Fail by Creating a Restore Point Bumping into trouble with Windows? If you have a restore point ready, you may be able to fix the problem.
By Lance Whitney Updated February 22, 2021
Has Windows been acting flaky? It could be a specific piece of software that’s wreaking havoc on your system. Maybe you've installed a new application or driver. Perhaps Windows is crashing or blue screening and you have no idea why. Don’t worry because all is not lost if you have a system restore point waiting to roll your PC back to functionality.
A restore point is essentially a snapshot of Windows at any given time. You can create restore points on a regular basis, and if Windows ever breaks, you can bring it back to a point from before the problem occurred. The best part of using this method over a Recovery Drive is that only system files and settings will be affected, while all your documents and personal files will be left untouched.
Windows automatically creates a restore point at key moments, such as when you install certain software programs and drivers or apply Windows updates. However, you should manually create these points yourself on a regular basis, perhaps a couple of times a month, to ensure that your system can be restored to a recent state in the event of a mishap. You should also create one before you attempt any type of major change to Windows that could inadvertently lead to unstable behavior or other issues.
The Restore Point feature is available in Windows 10, Windows 8.1, and Windows 7. It works the same in all three versions, but the way you get to the feature differs slightly. Here’s how to create and use a restore point in any of these versions of Windows.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-uninstall-programs-in-windows-10
6 Easy Ways to Uninstall Programs in Windows 10 Windows 10 offers several built-in ways to delete unwanted software, but several third-party programs can also rid your hard drive of unneeded applications. Let's look at your options.
By Lance Whitney Updated February 22, 2021
If there are several applications on your Windows 10 PC that you no longer use, you aren’t stuck with them. Get rid of them to free up disk space and unclutter your Start menu.
Windows 10 includes an uninstaller option available through the Start menu, Settings screen, and buried within Control Panel. You can quickly and cleanly remove a Windows 10 Universal app through the uninstall feature in the Start menu and in Settings, though not with the Control Panel applet.
However, if you try to remove a full desktop application using Windows' built-in options, the process often leaves behind leftover folders, files, and Registry entries. That's why you may want to use a third-party uninstaller, which can fully wipe out entire applications and leave no traces behind. Let's go over your options.<snip>
===== 10-29-2021 Articles and websites Links =====
There's a bunch of stuff John doesn't know. That's why I include links from smarter people....
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/what-to-do-if-your-usb-port-stops-working
What to Do if Your USB Port Stops Working
Has charging stopped? Are you no longer able to use your mouse? If there's something wrong with your USB ports, there are several ways to narrow down and fix the problem.
By Jason Cohen October 5, 2021
The USB ports on your computer help you customize and control your PC experience. Need a mouse? A new keyboard? Just plug it in. This can make working and gaming on your computer a much more enjoyable experience—unless one of your USB ports malfunctions. Here's everything you can try to get things working again before calling in the professionals. <snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/windows-10-guide-essential-keyboard-shortcuts
Essential Windows 10 Keyboard Shortcuts Every PC Pro Should Know
You can control Windows 10 via clicks, taps, or swipes—but sometimes a keyboard shortcut is the quickest way. Here's a handy guide to all the shortcuts you should know.
By Lance Whitney Updated September 13, 2021
You can navigate Windows 10 with the click of a mouse or the swipe of a finger. There’s a way to control it with the sound of your voice. And, of course, there’s the handy keyboard shortcut. Whether you're using a desktop, laptop, or Windows tablet, keyboard shortcuts are always available to you as a quick way to run a command, open a program, or perform a certain task. <snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-avoid-scareware
Don't Get Scammed by Scareware: 3 Easy Tips to Stay Safe
Unlike typical malware, spyware, and ransomware, scareware masquerades as real security protection and then frightens you into paying to clean up the infections it pretends to detect. Here's how not to get duped.
By Neil J. Rubenking Updated September 28, 2021
In the classic musical production The Music Man, con man Harold Hill frightens a town’s folks into believing that they’ve got “trouble, right here in River City!” Once he has them quaking in their boots, he’s right there with a solution—for a price. Grifters and con men show up everywhere, including the world of technology. While it doesn’t come with brass band accompaniment, a big popup announcing that your computer is dangerously infected can certainly cause consternation. Right behind the scare comes the solution; just pay a fee and the “helpful” antivirus will clean up all the dangers it found. Many users fall for these scams and wind up paying good money for software that just pretends to clean up imaginary threats, or that actively installs malware. Here are some tips to make sure you don't get scammed by scareware. <snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/essential-macos-keyboard-shortcuts
Essential Keyboard Shortcuts Every Mac User Should Know
Sometimes a keyboard shortcut is the quickest way to run a command, open an app, or access a feature in macOS. Here’s a guide to the best shortcuts for Apple Macs.
By Lance Whitney September 13, 2021
You typically navigate your Mac with the click of a mouse or the swipe of a trackpad. You can even handle it with your voice using the built-in Voice Control or Siri. But there’s another way to control your Mac: keyboard shortcuts. Whether you’re using a desktop or laptop, keyboard shortcuts are always available to you as a quick way to run a command, open a program, or perform a certain task. <snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-send-or-receive-a-fax-online
How to Send and Receive a Fax Online
If you no longer have access to a fax machine, you can send and receive faxes over the internet.
By Lance Whitney Updated September 30, 2021
Faxes are so 1980s. Who faxes anymore? Well, lots of folks do. Business offices. Small companies. Large companies. And why? Well, let's say you want your doctor to send you a copy of your latest lab results. Or your financial analyst asks you to send a document authorizing a certain transaction. Snail mail can be too slow, and email isn't secure. So that leaves us with the decades-old, but still reliable, fax.
But I don't have a fax machine, you say. How can I send or receive a fax? Lucky for you, an array of web-based services exist that can send or receive faxes without much effort. <snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-control-your-battery-usage-in-windows-10
How to Control Battery Usage in Windows 10
Does your Windows 10 laptop often run low on power? A host of settings can extend your PC's battery life.
By Lance Whitney Updated September 30, 2021
Uh oh, the battery charge on your Windows 10 laptop is down to 10%. There's no AC outlet in sight, and you don’t have an external power source. What do you do? Adjust these settings in Windows 10 to coax a few extra minutes (or even hours) of battery life from your PC. <snip>
Setting up Windows 10 for Privacy. Important choices to be made. Windows 10 privacy seems to be somewhat of an oxymoron, at least based on reputation. I'll review the choices you can make at setup to retain some control.
https://askleo.com/20075
External Hard Disk for Backups - 8 Reasons They Are Your Best Option. They don't even have to be expensive. An external drive is by far the best piece of additional equipment you can get for your computer to keep your data safe.
https://askleo.com/131457
Why Is My Fan Running at High Speed? Someone's probably working hard. A fan running at high speed means one thing: heat! The question is how you determine the cause and cool down your machine. It might be easier than you think.
https://askleo.com/6613
Is it Safe to Delete This File? The one thing you need to do before you hit delete. When running out of disk space, considering what you can delete makes sense. I'll look at the steps to determine whether a file, such as a .dat file, may be important.
https://askleo.com/2841
The Easy-to-Avoid Two-Factor Loss Risk. No need to worry about losing your second factor if you do this first.
Two-factor authentication is an important tool to keep accounts secure, but prepare for losing the second factor so you don't lose your account.
https://askleo.com/17345
How to Protect Your Cloud Storage and Backups from Ransomware. Extra-destructive malware might call for extra-strong protection. There are additional protections for your data if your machine becomes infected with a form of malware known as ransomware.
https://askleo.com/88362
Just What Is a Backup? Only, perhaps, the most important term in all of computing. "If it's only in one place, it's not backed up" really tells you all you need to know.
https://askleo.com/131290
How Do I Tell If a Source is Reputable? In technology, as in life, reputation is everything. We are often advised to trust only "reputable" sites. How do you tell if a site or service has a good reputation?
https://askleo.com/24333
===== 10-22-2021 Articles and websites Links =====
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/bad-habits-that-are-destroying-your-pc
8 Bad Habits That Are Destroying Your PC We all want our computers to last forever, but if yours seem to die before its time, your habits could be to blame. Here's some behavior that you should avoid.
By Whitson Gordon Updated October 20, 2021
Nothing lasts forever—especially tech—but your computer can last you quite a few years if you treat it well. If your laptop tends to break down earlier than you feel it should, there's a chance you're helping it along to an early demise with some especially bad habits. Here are some of the worst things you can do to a PC without even realizing you're doing anything wrong.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/22-excel-tips-for-becoming-a-spreadsheet-pro
26 Excel Tips for Becoming a Spreadsheet Pro Microsoft's program does just about everything one could ask for in a spreadsheet. Become the office Excel guru in no time with these hacks and tricks.
By Eric Griffith Updated October 15, 2021
There are very, very few people on planet Earth who could ever say they've completely mastered every intricate little thing about Microsoft Excel. It's the world's premiere spreadsheet application, and has been the industry standard for over 35 years, replacing the once-venerable Lotus 1-2-3, the first killer app for PCs in the 1980s.
Microsoft Excel's dominance as a spreadsheet has yet to be truly tested, certainly not by Corel's Quattro Pro (still sold today in WordPerfect Office), the open-source tools of LibreOffice, or even by Google's Sheets (the spreadsheet part of Google Drive).
There's a reason for that. Excel is more than a brand everyone knows: it is powerful. It does just about everything one could ask for in a spreadsheet. The current Excel version, available in Microsoft Office 2019 as part of a Microsoft 365 subscription and other methods, is a PCMag Editors' Choice.
It's not just for numbers. Plenty of people populate Excel's seemingly infinite grids with data, using it as a flat-file database. It can make a relatively effective contact manager or full-blown customer relationship manager. It's not all that shocking to see people using it as their word processor, despite Microsoft Word typically sitting right next to it. That's not even mentioning the almost infinite number of excellent looking charts it can generate with the right (or even wrong!) data.
One thing almost every Excel user has in common: not knowing enough. There are so many ways to slice and dice numbers, give that data a new look, and more, it's impossible to recount them all. Entire books are written on the topic. But it's easy to master some of the more interesting and intricate tips that will make your time using the program a little easier, and will make you look like a guru of high-tech spreadsheetery. So bone up on any or all of these tricks to excel at Excel.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-upgrade-to-windows-11-for-free
How to Upgrade to Windows 11 for Free
Microsoft says your Windows 10 PC is eligible for a Windows 11 upgrade. Now what? There are several ways to install the new OS for free. Here are your options.
By Lance Whitney October 20, 2021
Windows 11 will come preinstalled on any new PC you purchase, but why shell out the money if your current Windows 10 PC is eligible for a free upgrade? Microsoft offers several ways to get the new OS, so you can pick the method that works best for you.
Check for Compatibility health check app
The conversation around Windows 11 requirements has been a confusing one. Before you can get the free update, you should first make sure your current Windows 10 PC is compatible. The best way to do this is to run Microsoft’s PC Health Check Tool.
Go to the Windows 11 Specifications page and scroll to the bottom until you see the Check for compatibility section. Click the Download PC Health Check App link and install the program. Click the Check now button inside the app. If your computer is compatible, a message tells you that your PC meets Windows 11 requirements. <snip>
===== 10-6-2021 Articles and websites Links =====
Isn't Storing Your Passwords In One Place a Security Risk? It depends on the place.
Yes, password managers put all your information in one place. It better be a very good place.
https://askleo.com/131148
What's a Disk Partition? Yet another way of organizing data.
Partitions allow a single physical disk drive to be treated as if it were multiple disks.
https://askleo.com/131019
Are Longer Passwords Better, Even If They're Simpler? When it comes to passwords, size really does matter.
A longer password of repeating characters is more secure than a short complicated password -- but there's more to security than cracking.
https://askleo.com/6373
9 Ways Your Account Can Be Compromised, Even with a Super-strong Password Strong passwords are important, but they don't protect you from everything. I'll look at other ways your account can be compromised.
https://askleo.com/4492
The Start Button Is Missing and There's No Taskbar. What Do I Do? The case of the missing taskbar.
Taskbar and Start button disappeared? We'll look at solutions for several reasons why this might happen.
https://askleo.com/2529
Should I Always Sign Out of My Online Account? Who do you trust?
It is perfectly safe to stay signed in to your online account as long as you're protected from a few specific scenarios.
https://askleo.com/5310
How Do I Protect My Laptop Data from Theft? Encryption, done properly, is the answer.
Laptops are portable, convenient, and easily lost. If lost, all your data could easily be available to the finder. Encryption is the answer.
https://askleo.com/2343
Testing Your Backups Is Critical. The only thing worse than no backup is a backup that doesn't work.
Testing your backups is an easy step to overlook, but an important one to take. Make sure your backups will be there when you need them.
https://askleo.com/20591
Three Things to Try When Unsubscribe Doesn't Work. Time to take a different approach.
When a legitimate email sender doesn't respond to an "unsubscribe" request, they're no longer legitimate. Here's what to do.
https://askleo.com/130185
What's the Best Two-Factor Authentication Option? The worst is none at all.
The best two-factor authentication approach varies based on your needs, and what's offered by the service you're trying to use it with.
https://askleo.com/130305
How Do I Send Free Anonymous Email? Hiding your identity is possible but can be complicated.
Sending anonymous email ranges from easy to complex, depending on the likelihood of someone going the extra mile to identify you.
https://askleo.com/11097
What if My OneDrive is Too Big for My Hard Drive?
How to manage OneDrive when it's bigger than your disk.
Cloud storage is ubiquitous, convenient, and BIG. There are options if OneDrive is too big for your hard drive.
https://askleo.com/129954
If It's All Digital, Won't You Lose It Anyway? If you do, you're not doing it right.
A single original of anything is not backed up, and backing up is significantly easier, and of higher quality, in digital media.
https://askleo.com/10784
https://www.directutor.com/content/universal-remote-codes
How to Program a Universal Remote using Universal Remote Codes Universal remote controls can be programmed to be used with multiple devices like TV, Blu-Ray and AV Receivers, you can ditch several different remote controls for one Universal remote. Universal remote can control all home theater devices and components. Universal remote allows you to set aside the individual device remotes for one Universal remote. With a universal remote you can start using it by first programming the remote with each individual device in the home theater arsenal.
[links to] Universal Remote Codes manual setup and Instructions<snip>
Alternatives to the "Ask Leo" computer advice website:
https://www.askwoody.com/
https://www.raymond.cc/blog/
https://www.infopackets.com/
https://helpdeskgeek.com/
https://askbobrankin.com/
https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/
https://techguy.org/
https://www.computing.net/
https://www.computerhope.com/
http://www.pchell.com/
https://freepctech.com/
https://www.cybertechhelp.com/
===== 10-1-2021 Articles and websites Links =====
https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2021/09/26/ask-company-delete-personal-data
Companies are hoarding personal data about you. Here’s how to get them to delete it.
https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/2021/09/24/delete-facebook-heres-how-delete-deactivate-your-account/5843331001
Done with Facebook? Here's how to deactivate or permanently delete your Facebook account By Brett Molina, USA TODAY Finally ready to unfriend Facebook?
The social media giant has drawn its share of criticism on multiple fronts, such as how it handles the spread of misinformation on its platform or its strategies for safeguarding your personal data.
Recently, social justice and civil rights groups are urging users to join in a nationwide boycott of Facebook, claiming the site has caused significant harm to American life.
And last year, following the death of George Floyd, advertisers pledged to stop marketing on Facebook as part of a temporary boycott over the social network's failure to remove hate speech.
Whether it's to avoid political rants or worries about how your data is managed, it is fairly easy to escape Facebook if and when you're ready to leave.
Here's how to delete or deactivate your Facebook account:<snip>
===== 9-24-2021 Articles and websites Links =====
Websites for converting files:
https://smallpdf.com
21 tools to convert, compress, and edit PDFs for free. Try it out today!
https://www.pdf2go.com/
Free Online PDF Converter. Edit and convert PDF files online in your browser.
https://pdf2doc.com/
This free online PDF to DOC converter allows you to save a PDF file as an editable document in Microsoft Word DOC format, ensuring better quality than many other converters.
https://cloudconvert.com
CloudConvert is an online file converter. We support nearly all audio, video, document, ebook, archive, image, spreadsheet, and presentation formats. To get started, use the button below and select files to convert from your computer.
https://www.zamzar.com/
File conversion made easy
Convert documents, images, videos & sound - 1100+ formats supported [one free conversion daily] https://www.online-convert.com/ Free online file converter Convert media files online from one format into another. Please select the target format below:
https://products.groupdocs.app/
Free Online Document Manipulation Apps for Popular File Formats View, Convert, Assemble, Watermark, Compare and Search data from Microsoft Office, Visio, Project, OpenOffice, AutoCAD, PDL, 3D & Images.
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-upgrade-your-laptop-a-part-by-part-guide
How to Upgrade Your Laptop: A Part-by-Part Guide Adding more memory or storage, or swapping in a new battery or wireless card, can help squeeze a few more years out of that aging laptop. Here's how to figure out what you can upgrade, and how to do it the right way.
By Charles Jefferies September 22, 2021
Even if it's silver or blue on the outside, to most folks, a laptop PC looks like an impenetrable black box on the inside—you wouldn't dream of cracking it open. Some notebooks, indeed, do their best to keep you out. But if you can remove your laptop's bottom panel, chances are good that there's something inside—or maybe several somethings—that you can upgrade.
Notebooks, of course, aren't nearly as flexible as your typical desktop PC when it comes to hardware swaps. But upgrading your laptop, within the confines of what it will allow, can be a great way to get more life out of it. Depending on the model, you might be able to add more system memory (RAM) to make it more responsive, upgrade the storage drive for a capacity and performance boost, or replace the battery to rejuvenate the charge-holding that the machine had when it was new.
What you can actually do yourself varies from laptop model to laptop model, however. This guide helps you identify which laptop components you can (and can't) upgrade, and how to replace them. We'll even discuss items like the Wi-Fi radio and the graphics processor (GPU), and how to handle any warranty issues that might come up if you perform upgrades.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-download-videos-from-facebook
How to Download Videos From Facebook
Saving permanent copies of the videos you see on the social network to your computer is relatively simple, but it requires a few steps. Here's the simplest way to download your favorite Facebook clips.
By Eric Griffith September 20, 2021
Popular video sites often make it difficult to download content, usually for copyright and revenue reasons. Instead, they prefer you share a direct link or post it on your feed, where it'll continue to rack up those pre-roll ad dollars. But if you're looking to secure a permanent copy of a clip you spotted on Facebook, you probably have your reasons. And since we trust you, we're here to tell you how to download them.
If you have software in place that you use to download YouTube videos, such as 4K Video Downloader, you can try that. Most of the tools that work for YouTube, Vimeo, and others also work with Facebook URLs. But there's a more straightforward way to start.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-make-the-switch-from-windows-to-linux
How to Make the Switch From Windows to Linux If you're sick of Windows 10 or don't want to upgrade to Windows 11, you can install Linux instead. Here's how to make the switch to an open-source operating system and install apps.
By Whitson Gordon Updated September 17, 2021
Microsoft is getting closer to replacing Windows 10 with the sleeker Windows 11, but if you're sick of embedded advertisements, constant updates, data collection, software lock-ins, and rising hardware requirements, we don't blame you. The good news is you have options.
If you've been thinking about making the jump to a different operating system, now is the perfect time. But you aren't stuck with the Windows-macOS binary, and don't have to settle for the browser-based Chrome OS. Instead, you can turn to the world of Linux.<snip>
https://seniorplanet.org/technology-ageism
TECHNOLOGY
Why Tech is Senior-Unfriendly…and How to Fix It By Erica Manfred Monday, July 5, 2021 We’ve all been there. You’re trying fill out a form on a website or use Zoom on your tablet or make a video call on your smartphone and you just can’t get the damned thing to work. It won’t access the right site, or let you into a Zoom meeting, or save the data you’ve just put into a form. It’s technology ageism at work… …and you are ready to throw the device against the wall and go back to paper and pencil and push button phones.<snip>
https://seniorplanet.org/new-covid-scam-the-bogus-survey
New Covid Scams Alert
By May Linton Thursday, September 9, 2021 Got the vaccine? You’re still not safe…from Covid Scams.
According to several reports, criminals and scammers are using scam robocalls, texts and emails to cash in on COVID-19 and playing on people’s ignorance or uncertainty about appointments and next steps.
The newest? The Bogus Email
Scammers are impersonating FTC Chair Lina Khan in a new phishing scheme, according to the FTC. The email says the FTC wants to send you Coronavirus relief funds and tells you to send some personal information, like your name, address, and date of birth.<snip> To learn more about COVID-related frauds and scams, visit ftc.gov/coronavirus/scams
https://seniorplanet.org/ask-the-techspert-using-copy-cut-and-paste-to-move-computer-files-around
Ask the Techspert: Using Copy, Cut and Paste to Move Computer Files Around
By Jonathan Ushindi Zaluke September 18, 2021
You have most likely heard about the commands Copy, Cut, and Paste on a computer. These commands are often used to avoid the tedious work of recreating information (data) that is already available somewhere else on the same computer.<snip>
===== 9-17-2021 Articles and websites Links ====
If It's All Digital, Won't You Lose It Anyway? If you do, you're not doing it right. A single original of anything is not backed up, and backing up is significantly easier, and of higher quality, in digital media.
https://askleo.com/10784
Can Hotel Internet Traffic Be Sniffed? It's as bad as open Wi-Fi. Many hotels offer both wired and wireless internet, but with those hotel internet connections comes a security risk most folks don't consider.
https://askleo.com/3291
How Often Should I Reboot My Computer? Sometimes, it's required; sometimes, it's just a good idea. Rebooting your computer "every so often" is less necessary these days than it once was, but the point is often moot.
https://askleo.com/129288
What Can a Computer Thief See If I Password Protect My Windows Sign-in? Thieves can see more than you might think unless you've taken additional steps. Password-protecting your Windows login does not protect your computer's data, particularly if the computer is stolen.
https://askleo.com/22565
Should You Use the Free Backup Software that Comes with Some External Drives? There are better options.
Many external drives include free backup software that I never use. I'll explain why, and what I do instead.
https://askleo.com/19892
Why Is My Computer Crashing Randomly? The most common cause and a plan of attack. Random crashes are annoying and difficult to diagnose. I'll review common causes and steps you can take to determine what's happening on your computer.
https://askleo.com/4437
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/what-to-do-if-your-phone-is-overheating
What to Do If Your Phone Is Overheating
Here's why smartphones overheat, and several steps you can take to help cool things down.
By Jason Cohen September 13, 2021
Heat is your phone's worst enemy. Modern smartphones house powerful processors and large-capacity batteries inside slim cases, which make overheating a real concern, even under normal operating conditions (looking at you, Galaxy Note 7). Whether it's charging, sitting idle, or performing more active tasks, your phone has a safe internal temperature it needs to maintain, lest it end up shorting out, catching fire, or even exploding.
Sometimes, internal defects can lead to major problems, other times it's the way we treat our phones that dictate how long they last. Whatever the reason, if your phone overheats, there are a few steps you can take to help cool things down and prevent it from happening again.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/windows-10-guide-essential-keyboard-shortcuts
Essential Windows 10 Keyboard Shortcuts Every PC Pro Should Know You can control Windows 10 via clicks, taps, or swipes—but sometimes a keyboard shortcut is the quickest way. Here's a handy guide to all the shortcuts you should know.
By Lance Whitney Updated September 13, 2021
You can navigate Windows 10 with the click of a mouse or the swipe of a finger. There’s a way to control it with the sound of your voice. And, of course, there’s the handy keyboard shortcut. Whether you're using a desktop, laptop, or Windows tablet, keyboard shortcuts are always available to you as a quick way to run a command, open a program, or perform a certain task.
The problem with keyboard shortcuts, though? With so many of them scattered across different programs and operating systems, they can be difficult to remember. Certain universal shortcuts, such as Ctrl + Z for undo or Ctr l+ C for copy, get burned into your brain after years of repetition. But other useful ones—such as Alt + Tab to switch to another open window, or Ctrl + Y to redo your last action—can be harder to remember, since you don't use them as often.
And those are just the "standard" ones that have been around through several versions of Windows. Windows 10 introduced a host of new keyboard shortcuts to tap into its vast array of features, such as the reincarnated Start menu, the Microsoft Edge browser, and the Virtual Desktop function. So, now you have even more shortcuts to remember.
If you’re having trouble keeping them all straight, here's a guide to Windows shortcuts. Some arrived with Windows 10, and some are old standbys that you may have forgotten. We've organized them according to key features and categories. You won't be able to remember them all, but you'll be able to recall some. And you can always keep this guide handy while you're working in Windows 10. <snip>
Kodak Digital Camera? Want more info?
https://www.imaging-resource.com/cameras/kodak/discontinued/
Kodak Cameras
Camera Reviews / Kodak Cameras / Discontinued Kodak Cameras Here are all of our Kodak digital camera reviews, listed alphabetically by model.
https://www.imaging-resource.com/cameras/brands/
Digital Cameras by Manufacturer
Our camera database contains the largest listing of digicam models anywhere online, with full specifications and additional data on 2,721 digital cameras. To find a specific camera, click the manufacturer's name below to see a complete listing of their models, together with links to our reviews, spec sheets, and current street price information. If you're unsure which model is right for you, try our Camera Finder, where you can search for models in your price range by megapixel rating and various key features. If you're trying to decide between two or more cameras, you can also compare specifications for multiple cameras side by side, by visiting our Compare Cameras page.
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/what-to-do-if-your-laptop-freezes
What to Do if Your Laptop Freezes By Whitson Gordon Updated September 8, 2021
If your computer has slowed to a near-crawl, or become unresponsive entirely, here's how to see if it's an easy fix or something that needs more attention.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-stay-anonymous-online
8 Easy Ways to Stay Anonymous Online By Eric Griffith Updated September 8, 2021
We live in a world of mass surveillance. Here's how to mask your identity without ditching the internet entirely.<snip>
https://www.freep.com/story/money/personal-finance/susan-tompor/2021/08/05/touchless-qr-codes-consumer-scams/5481747001/
Touchless QR codes open new doors for scammers
Susan Tompor Detroit Free Press
Anyone who ventured into a restaurant during the pandemic knows that the QR code is a contactless way to look at a menu. Why keep passing around old plastic menus that can go through a ton of hands as we fight the virus?<snip> What are the red flags of QR code scams?
The BBB and others offer these warnings:
Don’t open links from strangers. If you receive an unsolicited message from a stranger, don’t scan the QR code, even if they promise you exciting gifts or investment opportunities.
Verify the source. If a QR code appears to come from a well-known company or government agency, take extra time to go to the official website to confirm it.
Be suspicious if, after scanning a QR code, a password or login information is requested. Don't give that extra information.
Be wary of short links. If a URL-shortened link appears when you scan a QR code, understand that you can’t know where the code is directing you. It could be hiding a malicious URL.
Some scammers attempt to mislead consumers by altering legitimate business ads.
Install a QR scanner with added security. Some antivirus companies have QR scanner apps that check the safety of a scanned link before you open it. They can identify phishing scams, forced app downloads, and other dangerous links.<snip> "Your smartphone can be a gateway to your personal data, finances and accounts," Adam Levin, founder of CyberScout said. "Scanning QR codes and hoping for the best is asking for trouble."
Overall, Levin said, it’s a good rule of thumb to turn your smartphone off and restart it regularly.
"Many forms of malware that live in your phone such as spyware depend on the device never being turned off."
===== 9-10-2021 Articles and websites Links ====
Free Wi-Fi. Go wireless in these 21 areas of St. Louis Park.
https://www.stlouispark.org/how-do-i-/find/free-wi-fi
How You Recover When Good Apps Go Bad Taking my own advice.
I frequently advise people what to do about unexpected and undesirable software changes. It's time for me to take my own advice.
https://askleo.com/129145
Can I Get a Virus By Looking at an Email? It used to be scary easy.
It used to be that simply viewing a malformed email could allow a virus to spread. Thankfully, that's no longer the case with modern mail programs.
https://askleo.com/1931
How to Back Up Photos and Never Lose Them Again: the Steps You Need to Take Your photos are irreplaceable Follow these steps to avoid losing precious and irreplaceable memories.
https://askleo.com/16005
The Biggest Risk to Your Privacy Revealed...It's probably not who, or what, you think We worry a lot about privacy, but our concerns are often misplaced. Fortunately, the biggest risk to our personal privacy is right under our nose.
https://askleo.com/27036
Why Password Managers are Safer than the Alternatives Password vaults really are your most secure solution If you're not using a password manager, you're likely compromising your security more than necessary. Here's why using one is safer.
https://askleo.com/5555
All the Places Email Can Fail
Did My Bounced Message Get There?
When an email message comes back to you because of a problem, exactly who did or did not get the message can be confusing.
https://askleo.com/4723
Dealing With Video Starts and Stops While Watching: Two Common Causes and Three Possible Solutions The things you need to look at and the things you can try There are common causes, and sometimes simple solutions, for a video that starts and stops as you watch it.
https://askleo.com/2981
===== 9-3-2021 Articles and websites Links ====
https://www.pcworld.com/article/3614627/5-security-tools-built-into-windows-10.html
5 great security tools built right into Windows Windows has some great built-in security features to help keep your PC secure.
By Ian Paul Contributor, PCWorld | APR 22, 2021
Windows 10 has a fantastic set of built-in security tools. In recent years, Windows Defender, the built-in antivirus for Windows 10, has performed as well as (and sometimes even better than) the major third-party suites.
Many of Windows 10’s security features are turned on by default, such as Windows Defender’s real-time malware scanning and scheduled quick scans. Still, there are items that are either not enabled by default or have a lot more to offer than you may realize at first glance.
Here are five Windows 10 security tools that are well worth knowing about.<snip>
https://www.wired.co.uk/article/google-chrome-browser-data
KATE O'FLAHERTY SECURITY 06.06.2021
It’s time to ditch Chrome
As well as collecting your data, Chrome also gives Google a huge amount of control over how the web works Despite a poor reputation for privacy, Google’s Chrome browser continues to dominate. The web browser has around 65 per cent market share and two billion people are regularly using it. Its closest competitor, Apple’s Safari, lags far behind with under 20 per cent market share. That’s a lot of power, even before you consider Chrome’s data collection practices.<snip>
How to see what Google knows about you, and delete it Google, like many other big tech companies, knows a lot about you.
By Ian Paul Contributor, PCWorld | APR 19, 2021
https://www.pcworld.com/article/3615651/how-to-see-what-google-knows-about-you-and-delete-it.html
Google collects a lot of data about you if you use the company’s services. To its credit, the company makes finding and deleting that data easy by showing most of it on a single website. Here’s how to see the bulk of what Google knows about you, and how to delete it if you want.
Once you delete data from your Google Account, the company immediately starts removing it and stops using it for personalization. “We then begin a process designed to safely and completely delete the data from our storage systems,” Google explains. <snip>
https://www.windowscentral.com/windows-11
Windows 11: Release date, price, and everything you need to know Windows 11 is official, and it's coming this fall.
ZAC BOWDEN 31 Aug 2021
Microsoft has announced plans to soon release Windows 11. It turns out Windows 10 wasn't the last version of Windows after all, but that's okay, because Windows 11 will be free for all Windows 10 users, and includes a whole bunch of new features and improvements over the current version of Windows. This is everything you need to know.
Release date
System requirements
What's new?
Tablet experience
New Microsoft Store
New update cadence
Will it be free?
When can I test it?
Windows 11 release date<snip>
https://getpocket.com/explore/item/trust-me-you-don-t-want-to-know-what-happens-to-email-you-send
Trust Me, You Don’t Want to Know What Happens to Email You Send It’s tempting to use an email-tracking service, but their overall impact may not be great for your mind.
The Outline Stephanie Dubick
A few years ago, I thought I’d try using email tracking. After reading an article about the effectiveness of free email-tracking services like Streak and Yesware, I figured it would be a useful way to track my pitches and see which ideas worked and which ones were hot garbage.<snip>
===== 8-27-2021 Articles and websites Links ====
Top 5 Ways to Extract APK File of Any App on Your Android Phone
by Mrinal Saha October 29, 2018
https://techwiser.com/extract-apk-android/
There are many ways to extract the APK file from an Android Device. Some of them are as simple as copy-pasting a URL, while others require you to root your smartphone. But, why take a difficult route when there are simpler ones, right? So here are five simple ways to extract APK files from your Android smartphone and tablet.<snip>
https://techwiser.com/open-source-android-apps/
50+ Open Source Android Apps When You Want to Ditch Google
by Kaushal July 18, 2018
Android is an open-source platform, but most apps you run on Android aren’t Open Source. There are a number of reasons to choose Open Source Android Apps over proprietary software, from security, privacy, or even when you want to use your Android without any Google services.
That said, it’s very hard to know, what apps on the Google Play Store are open source. So, we have compiled a list of 50+ Open Source apps. This list would include apps that are available on the Play Store, F-Droid App Store, and Github.<snip>
7 Best Open Source Browser for Android (2018)
by Vamsi Krishna May 18, 2018
https://techwiser.com/open-source-browser-for-android/
Though most browsers for Android are free and filled with features, they are not open source. One of the best things about open source apps is that you can actually look for the code behind it. More often than not, these open source apps have features that are sorely lacking in the regular apps. If you knew enough, you can even fork and make your own version without much effort. If you are someone who likes to use open source apps then here are some of the best free and open source Android browsers you should try.<snip>
8 Alternatives To Google Play Store
by Karrar Haider January 8, 2017
https://techwiser.com/8-alternatives-to-google-play-store/
Google Play Store is definitely the best place to get your favorite apps and manage them. However, that doesn’t mean it is the only place where you can get Android apps. There are many other third-party app stores where you can download apps for your Android phone.<snip>
===== 8-20-2021 Articles and websites Links ====
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/what-to-do-if-a-phone-wont-turn-on
What to Do If Your Phone Won't Turn On
Has your phone stopped turning on? Here are some troubleshooting tips that can help you get your iPhone or Android device running again.
By Whitson Gordon Updated August 14, 2021
After paying hundreds of dollars for the tiny computer in your pocket, it can be nerve-wracking to find it won’t turn on—especially if it's no longer under warranty. After all, it's hard to be without a working smartphone in this day and age.
However, as tempting as it may be to declare your phone dead and panic-buy a new device, we think you should hold off. Here are a few troubleshooting steps you can go through to see if your iPhone or Android device still lives.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/10-ways-to-make-better-to-do-lists
Get More Done: Try These 10 Simple Tips for Better To-Do Lists Want to make progress in your daily tasks? A smartly managed to-do list can make all the difference. These quick tips will set you up for success.
By Jill Duffy Updated August 18, 2021
How effective is your to-do list? Does it help you plan your day? Does it nudge you to prioritize the right tasks? Or is it a never-ending list of things you feel guilty for not having done yet and now you're not going to do any of them? A good to-do list should serve you. You should not be at its mercy.
The best to-do lists set you off in the right direction each day and help you focus on the tasks that are most important. With the right strategies, a to-do list can help you achieve larger goals, too. Here's what you need to know to make your to-do list work for you.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/ipad-tips-and-tricks-how-to-conquer-ipados
The Best iPad Tips and Tricks: How to Conquer iPadOS Apple's tablet may seem like a super-sized iPhone, but it has unique features even the most seasoned iOS veteran must learn. Here are the top hidden iPad features to know.
By Eric Griffith August 17, 2021
Anyone familiar with the iPhone's interface will have little trouble mastering the iPad. But with Apple splitting the two devices' operating systems into iOS and iPadOS, there are now some iPad-specific functions tablet owners should know.
Why create another OS? Because there are lots of functions that only work with the larger screen. Rather than have that code taking up space on iPhones, it's only on iPads. What type of functions? Read on to learn the secrets that will make Apple's biggest touch screen even more worthwhile in your daily life.<snip>
testing internet connection speeds
https://pcm-intl.speedtestcustom.com/
https://www.speakeasy.net/speedtest/
https://www.allconnect.com/providers/xfinity/speed-test
https://myspeedcheck.net/speedtest/xfinity-internet-speed-test
https://www.smartmove.us/speedtest/xfinity
https://speedchecker.io/
https://usinternet.com/speed-test/
https://fast.com/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_countries_by_Internet_connection_speeds
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_access
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Data_signaling_rate
===== 8-13-2021 Articles and websites Links ====
https://www.pcmag.com/news/how-to-download-youtube-videos
How to Download YouTube Videos
Hours of footage is uploaded to YouTube every second. What if you want to download it? In some circles, that's considered a big no-no, but you have your reasons, right? Here's how.
By Eric Griffith Updated March 29, 2021
There are billions of hours of video on YouTube. Literally. And that's hardly the most astounding statistic about the site, which has been the go-to destination for uploading and watching video since 2005. That said, sometimes, you really want or need to have one of those videos on your own computer or phone. But when the topic of downloading YouTube videos comes up, there's a side subject that must be broached: Is it legal?
On the copyright front, as long as you're downloading a video for your own personal offline use, you're probably okay. It's more black and white when you consider Google's terms of service for YouTube, which reads: "You are not allowed to...access, reproduce, download, distribute, transmit, broadcast, display, sell, license, alter, modify or otherwise use any part of the Service or any Content except: (a) as expressly authorized by the Service; or (b) with prior written permission from YouTube and, if applicable, the respective rights holders."<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/back-up-iphone-android-device-with-google-one
How to Back Up Your iPhone or Android Device With Google One Worried about losing important photos and files on your mobile device? Google One can back up certain data from your phone for safekeeping.
By Lance Whitney March 4, 2021
If you need to back up the data on your mobile phone, you can use Google Drive for Android devices, Samsung Cloud for Samsung phones, and iCloud for iPhones. But if you need lots of storage space, another option is Google One.
Available for free with 15GB of space or as a paid subscription with 100GB to 30TB of storage, the Google One app will back up your photos, videos, contacts, and calendar. You can back up data from a phone or tablet, so Google One works across all your mobile devices.
Why Google One?
You can already back up certain data separately across Google Drive, Google Photos, and other Google services, so you might be wondering why Google One is any better. This cloud storage service works across all Google services to give you more expansive storage. Your 15GB of free space also counts toward storage across Google Drive, Gmail, and Google Photos.
If you use the Google One free option, you can back up data from your Android device or iPhone and iPad and free up space on your Google Account using a built-in storage manager. Upgrade to a Google One paid option, and your storage capacity is added to that initial 15GB. You also get dedicated customer support from Google experts, exclusive discounts, and advanced features for certain services.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/microsoft-edge-browser-tips-tricks
The Best Tricks Inside Microsoft's Edge Browser The new Chromium version of Edge offers several enhancements over its predecessor. These tips highlight the best hidden features we’ve found in Microsoft’s new browser.
By Lance Whitney Updated March 5, 2021
The new Chromium-based version of Microsoft's Edge browser adds a few tricks, from dropping EdgeHTML in favor of Chromium, making it feel more like Google Chrome, to supporting Chrome extensions.
While we bet one of the first things you do on a new Windows PC is rush to the web and download Firefox, Chrome, or your other browser of choice, there are still reasons to consider Edge. After all, we found it performs well against the competition.
Unlike the old edition of Edge, the new version can be downloaded for Windows 10, 8/8.1, 7, and even macOS. If you have Windows 10, the new flavor will automatically replace the older version. With version 88 released in January 2021, Edge includes several key updates designed to protect your security and privacy. Here’s a look at what you can do right now.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-do-a-reverse-image-search-from-your-phone
How to Do a Reverse Image Search From Your Phone Google's reverse image search is a breeze on a desktop, but what about when you're on a mobile device? Google, Bing, and others have options.
By Eric Griffith Updated April 21, 2021
Image Search is the ability to search on a term and find images related to what you typed. Most search engines offer it, and it's great. But what if you have an image and want to know its origin? Or find similar photos? That's a reverse image search.
Google's reverse image search is a breeze on a desktop computer. Go to images.google.com, click the camera icon, and either paste in the URL for an image you've seen online, upload an image from your hard drive, or drag an image from another window.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-make-your-windows-pc-boot-faster
How to Make Your Windows PC Boot Faster
Does Windows take a long time to boot up? Here are a few things you can do to make the startup process on your computer a little quicker.
By Whitson Gordon April 17, 2021
Computers have come a long way since the beige boxes of old, but even with speeds measured in gigahertz and gigabytes per second, they still involve some occasional waiting. If you're tired of solving Rubik's Cubes while you wait for your computer to boot, here are a few ways to speed up the process.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-delete-your-facebook-account
How to Delete Your Facebook Account
Sick of the world's leading social network? Say good-bye to all those 'friends' by following these instructions. Here's how to delete Facebook.
By Eric Griffith Updated April 19, 2021
Recent events, or just the general state of social media, might have you contemplating a break from Facebook. That's not an option for everyone; in that case, tighten up your account settings.
But if the social network skeeves you out, if you've finally had enough, there are ways to extricate yourself. If you're ready for a break, here's how to delete Facebook.<snip>
===== 8-6-2021 Articles and websites Links ====
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/gmail-tips-that-will-help-you-conquer-email
Gmail Tips That Will Help You Conquer Email Google's free email service has come a long way since its debut. It's time you became a Gmail power user. These tips will get you there.
By Eric Griffith August 1, 2021
Gmail has come a long way. It's not perfect and occasionally prompts ripples of outrage across its user base. But let's be honest, with Gmail you get plenty for nothing.
As a web app, Gmail is a constant work in progress, but the amount of under-the-hood power is astounding. Sure, there are plenty of browser add-ons and extensions that can enhance Gmail specifically, far beyond its original parameters. However, not every bit of power-user tech in Gmail requires special accessories. Plenty is possible without ever installing something extra.
Mastering even a few settings will help you take full advantage of what Gmail has to offer beyond the basics. Let's get started.<snip> Shortcut Cheat Sheet Use Multiple Accounts Add Third-Party Email Accounts to Gmail Check Which Apps Have Access to Gmail Send Messages Later, On Schedule Try to Be Confidential Send From a Different Email Address Don't Just Label Spam, Block Senders Unsubscribe to Everything How to 'Undo Send' in Gmail Drag Messages or Labels
Send+Archive
Email Address Disguises/Aliases
Power Your Search
Response in a Can
Smart Reply
Sign Out Remotely
Hit the Mute (or Snooze) Button
How to Select All Gmail Emails
Tricks for sending attachments
Delegate someone else to share control of your Gmail account Delete Big Messages<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-and-why-to-create-a-separate-windows-account-just-for-school
How (and Why) to Create a Separate Windows Account Just for School Keep your personal and school lives separate by creating an education-focused account on your PC. Distinct profiles can help you (or your children) concentrate on learning.
By Ben Moore Updated August 5, 2021
Whether you are a student looking for a boundary between your school and personal life or a parent who wants a distraction-free environment for your school-age kids, a separate education-only account on a Windows PC can help keep these worlds from colliding. We show you how to set up a secondary account and choose the account type that best fits your needs. We also offer tips on how to organize a new user profile that's more suitable for education. This advice applies regardless of whether you or your child are learning from home full-time, part-time, or not at all.
You can absolutely create separate accounts on Chrome OS-, macOS-, and Ubuntu-based computers, but the advice in this guide is specific to Windows users. After all, Windows' share of the desktop market worldwide is about 73 percent, according to Statcounter, as of the time of this update. This guide covers the process for a Windows 10 device, but Windows 11 is right around the corner and, once it launches, we'll update this story with any changes to the process.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-carry-your-vaccination-card-on-your-phone
How to Carry Your Vaccination Card on Your Phone With mask restrictions changing, Delta surging, and New York City's new mandate, you may have to pull out proof of vaccination. But the official vaccine card doesn't fit easily in a wallet. Here's how to keep it handy on your phone.
By Chandra Steele Updated August 3, 2021
After an initial rollout that left people anxiously refreshing Twitter feeds and state health websites for appointment slots, COVID-19 vaccinations are going into arms across the country, and there is ample opportunity in the US to get vaccinated.
It's a privilege that's not available in many other places, and if you've taken advantage of it, you might have happily taken part of it and then set aside your white proof-of-vaccine card and tried to resume life with as much normalcy as possible.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/protect-your-identity-on-social-media
Master Social Media Without Sacrificing Your Privacy Posting on social media is all about communication, whether it's chatting among a tight circle of friends or broadcasting your views to the public. Just take care that you don't give away too much information.
By Neil J. Rubenking Updated August 3, 2021
Some people have no filter. They’ll conduct the most personal phone conversations at maximum volume, on the subway. Or they’ll regale perfect strangers with the excruciating details of their latest medical procedures. Most of us, though, have a better idea of how to maintain privacy for ourselves and our friends. But do you take the same attitude on social media? It’s easy to notice that you’re too loud on the phone in public, less easy to realize that your settings let any schmo read your social media posts. And yet, protecting your privacy on social media is important, in more ways than you may realize.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-could-a-data-breach-affect-me
So You've Been Pwned: What To Do When Your Private Data Goes Public A little preventative action and a lot of common sense can help keep you safe and secure when your private information gets leaked in a data breach.
By Kim Key Updated August 2, 2021
No company is safe from data breaches, from food-service behemoths like McDonald’s to e-commerce merchants like Shopify. You doubtless participate in the global economy in some way, too, so you aren't safe either. Data breaches now happen so often that they rarely make the regular news cycle, but that doesn’t make them any less dangerous. A data breach gives cybercriminals the chance to uncover your private information and use it for nefarious purposes, such as identity theft.
Few people know more about the volume and frequency of data breaches around the world than Troy Hunt, a Microsoft Regional Director and the man behind HaveIBeenPwned, a free online security resource. His website lists data breaches as they are reported and allows visitors to check if their information has appeared in any of them. I spoke to Hunt about data breaches over the phone, and he offered a lot of information about keeping data private.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-recover-deleted-files-in-windows-10
How to Recover Deleted Files in Windows 10 Did you accidentally delete an important file? Did you also empty the Recycle Bin? Don't worry. Microsoft added a new file recovery tool in Windows 10 May 2020 Update.
By Lance Whitney Updated August 2, 2021
Delete a file in Windows 10, and you can often recover it even if it’s no longer in the Recycle Bin. There are third-party data recovery tools available, but they can be expensive. Instead, Microsoft offers a command-line utility called Windows File Recovery that restores deleted files. Available in the Microsoft Store, the app requires the Windows 10 May 2020 Update or higher.
Windows File Recovery can revive photos, documents, videos, and other types of files on a mechanical hard drive, SSD, USB drive, or memory card. The program supports FAT, NTFS, and exFAT file systems. FAT and exFAT are used for SD cards, flash drives, and USB drives with less than 4GB of storage. NTFS is typically used on mechanical drives, SSDs, external hard drives, flash drives, and USB drives larger than 4GB.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/silence-notifications-with-windows-10s-focus-assist
How to Silence Notifications With Windows 10's Focus Assist Whether you're hard at work or relaxing with a game after hours, notifications for emails, text messages, and more can be distracting. Here's how to tell Windows 10 to leave you alone when you're busy.
By Lance Whitney Updated August 1, 2021
You're in the middle of browsing a website, creating a document, or playing a game. Then Windows 10 taps you on the shoulder to tell you about an update or some other notification. It's a case of bad timing, but you can avoid unwanted interruptions with Focus Assist.
Formerly known as Quiet Hours, Focus Assist was introduced with the Windows 10 April 2018 Update. It gives you greater control over notifications, allowing you to get more work done without distractions.
Focus Assist can be used while playing games, sharing your screen, using an app full screen, or during specific hours. You can tell Windows to hide all notifications while still filtering alarms or anything deemed high priority. A summary of any notifications you missed can then be viewed in the Windows Action Center. Here's how to get started.<SNIP>
You're Just Not That Interesting (Except When You Are). Worried about privacy? I believe we over-imagine the risks and at the same time are our own worst enemies.
https://askleo.com/22674
How Two-Factor Authentication Works. Two-factor authentication is a great way to keep your accounts secure from hackers -- even those who manage to get your password.
https://askleo.com/16401
Are Deleted Emails Really Deleted? "Permanently deleted" email may or may not be recoverable. Depending on the situation and motivation, that email could come back to haunt or help you.
https://askleo.com/17447
Is Passwordless Sign-in Safe? Signing in without a password seems almost nonsensical, yet it can be more secure than traditional sign-ins. More convenient? That depends.
https://askleo.com/128561
Dealing With Video Starts and Stops While Watching: Two Common Causes and Three Possible Solutions. There are common causes, and sometimes simple solutions, for a video that starts and stops as you watch it.
https://askleo.com/2981
===== 7-30-2021 Articles and websites Links ====
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/what-to-do-if-a-laptop-has-no-sound
What to Do if Your Laptop Has No Sound
Is the audio not working on your laptop, and you can't figure out why? Here's how to fix those sound problems.
By Whitson Gordon Updated July 27, 2021
There's nothing like cranking up some tunes to keep your momentum going during the workday. But if your laptop speakers aren't working, it can really kill your groove.
Here's how to troubleshoot your PC if you aren't getting any sound. While many of these suggestions reference Windows 10, similar processes work no matter your operating system.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/revive-windows-10-with-a-recovery-drive
How to Revive Windows 10 With a Recovery Drive A recovery drive stores a copy of your Windows 10 environment on an external source, like a DVD or USB drive. Here's how to create one before your PC goes kaput.
By Lance Whitney July 28, 2021
Uh, oh. Your Windows 10 system won't boot up and can't fix itself. In most cases you would be out of luck, but not if you've already created a recovery drive, which stores a copy of your Windows 10 environment on another source, such as a DVD or USB drive. Then, if Windows 10 goes kerflooey, you can restore it from that drive.
The downside is that personal files and desktop apps won’t come along for the ride, but you should already be backing up your personal files separately. At the very least, a recovery drive will bring Windows 10 back to a bootable and working state. Here's how to get started.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/you-tossed-your-cookies-but-theyre-still-tracking-you-heres-how-to-hide
You Tossed Your Cookies But They’re Still Tracking You; Here’s How to Hide Your Browser Fingerprint Browser fingerprinting is a sneaky way advertisers and others track you online. We explain how this surveillance technique works and what you can do to protect your privacy.
By Neil J. Rubenking July 23, 2021
If you’re just walking down the street, you’re out in public view. A friend may see and greet you. A street hawker may try to sell you a watch. There’s nothing wrong with that, but if you notice someone following you in the shadows with a clipboard, taking note of everything you do, you might feel differently. On the internet, advertisers and data brokers take the role of that shadowy clipboard-wielding spy. They want to know exactly where you go, how you act, and what you buy. Browser fingerprinting lets them manage that tracking with no chance that you’ll spot them in the shadows. Just what is this arcane art that threatens your privacy, and how can you avoid being fingerprinted?
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/10-quick-tips-to-fix-your-bad-photos
10 Quick Tips to Fix Your Bad Photos
You don't have to be a professional to take top-notch photos. Follow these simple pointers to improve the quality of your snapshots.
By Jim Fisher Updated July 22, 2021
Digital photography has democratized the medium. More people are taking more photos than ever before, and they're sharing them online with friends and family in record numbers. It's easy to place the blame on the camera (or your smartphone) if your images aren't as nice as some others you see online, but by following a few guidelines you can improve the quality of your snapshots—without having to shell out big bucks for a new camera. Keep these 10 easy tips in mind next time you head out to capture the world around you. <snip>.
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/18-free-ways-to-download-any-video-off-the-internet/
How to Download Any Video From the Internet: 20 Free Methods
BY DAN PRICE 072621
Downloading videos off the internet is surprisingly easy. Here are free ways to grab any video you want.
download-any-video-featured
Do you want to download videos from the internet? If you see a video you like on Facebook, YouTube, Vimeo, or any of the other leading video sites, you might want to create a copy so you can keep it forever.
Thankfully, downloading videos off the internet is surprisingly easy. And here are the best free ways to download any video off the internet.<snip>
15 Must-Have Windows Apps and Software for Any New PC
BY BEN STEGNER UPDATED 7-22-2021
https://www.makeuseof.com/new-windows-pc-must-have-applications-to-install-first/
Got a new computer? Here's the essential Windows 10 software you need when setting up a new PC.
must-have-windows-apps
Whether you've just purchased a new PC or reinstalled Windows, the first task you'll likely do is installing apps. While there are dozens of amazing Windows programs, knowing which ones are the must-have software for Windows 10 makes setting up a new installation easier.
In no particular order, let's step through 15 essential apps for Windows 10 that everyone should install right away, along with some alternatives.<snip>
The 10 Safest Free Software Download Sites for Windows
BY BEN STEGNER UPDATED FEB 15, 2021
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/9-cleanest-safest-websites-download-free-software-windows
Many software download sites are loaded with malware. Here are the safest sites you can trust when you need free software downloads.
clean-safe-windows-downloads
There are many places on the internet to download free software, but they're not all safe. Lots of sites take advantage of people looking for free downloads and hit you with malicious ads, fake virus warnings, or even tampered files.
While good antivirus software will protect you from the worst sites, it's better to avoid shady free download sites altogether and stick to trustworthy ones. Let's look at some of the best and safest sites for downloading Windows software.
In addition to general reputation and personal experience, we used URLVoid to check website safety. This tool checks sites against dozens of security software blacklists. Every website here scored at least a 34/36 (meaning that all but one or two scanners found the site to be clean).<snip>
===== 7-23-2021 Articles and websites Links ====
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-make-sure-icloud-is-backing-up-syncing-your-data
How to Make Sure iCloud Is Backing Up, Syncing Your Data If you've felt the pain of losing all the photos, videos, and documents saved on your iPhone, or want to avoid it, iCloud is your friend. Here's how to make sure everything's set up and syncing.
By Scott Bay Updated July 2, 2021
Most of us have been in the situation where we had to get a new iOS device, and all our photos, notes, and contacts went poof, never to be seen again.
If you've felt that pain—or want to avoid it—iCloud is your friend. Cloud storage services, including Apple's iCloud Drive, back up valuable information, documents, and images wirelessly to the internet, where it's easy to retrieve or download from any device.
Apple automatically provides every user with 5GB of free iCloud storage. You can use this storage to back up apps, images, videos, or documents. But 5GB fills up fast; additional storage starts at $0.99 per month for 50GB in the US. With Apple One, you can also bundle iCloud storage with other Apple services, like Apple Music, Apple TV+, Fitness+, and more.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/what-to-do-when-computer-wont-start
What to Do When Your Computer Won't Start If your computer won't start, don't panic (yet). Here are some troubleshooting steps to take when your computer fails to boot correctly.
By Whitson Gordon Updated July 21, 2021
You sit down at your computer, push the power button just like you do every day, and...nothing happens. Maybe the computer doesn't turn on at all, maybe it powers up but shuts right down, or maybe all you get is a blue screen. There's nothing obviously wrong here, so why won't the computer just start? Here are some troubleshooting steps to take.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-free-up-space-on-your-iphone-or-ipad
How to Free Up Space on Your iPhone or iPad Is the storage full on your iOS device? Here's how to figure out what's taking up the most space on your iPhone and iPad so you can decide what to delete.
By Chandra Steele Updated July 15, 2021
How much space is left on your iOS device? Do you hit a wall whenever you try to update your OS or download new apps? What's the best way to move files you want to keep in order to free up space? And how can you make smart decisions about what to keep and what to delete? Follow these few simple steps, and you'll be on your way to a less overloaded, more organized iPhone or iPad. <snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/10-things-to-know-before-you-buy-refurbished-electronics
10 Things to Know Before You Buy Refurbished Electronics Buying a refurbished device can help you save money, but don’t go into it blind. These tips will help you get a deal and avoid being ripped off when buying refurbished laptops, TVs, phones, and other electronics.
By Eric Griffith Updated July 19, 2021
There's a simple reason to buy refurbished tech instead of a brand-new device—saving money. It's also nice to avoid sending a gadget to the landfill.
The problem is that refurbed products are not new, and likely had a life before they came to you. Maybe it was a short existence with the original that brought few tribulations, but maybe not. It was enough of a life that the product was sent back and given an overhaul to make it workable again, or at least a once-over to make sure it still delivers. That all happened under the original product warranty—a warranty you may not receive when giving that product a second chance.
You may also have to forego the original accessories and deal with a few imperfections.
Here's the quick rundown of what you should know before you click the buy button on a renewed/revamped piece of hardware. If you can't get these questions answered to your satisfaction, stick with purchasing brand new.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/heres-why-an-extended-warranty-on-electronics-is-a-waste-of-money
Here's Why an Extended Warranty on Electronics Is a Waste of Money Extended warranties are offered with most devices—smartphones, laptops, TVs, home appliances—but are they worth the money? Survey says: No. Here's how to protect your electronics without forking over extra cash.
By Eric Griffith Updated July 21, 2021
When you purchase a big-ticket item—smartphone, laptop, TV—some kind of warranty is expected. It's typically called an "express warranty" because it's supposed to be clearly expressed. Sometimes it's called a "guarantee" because it's supposed to guarantee that it works. It doesn't even have to be written—a TV huckster saying "it'll last 20 years!" is a legal guarantee.
Whatever it's called, these warranties are usually limited in time and scope. Thus, you'll frequently find the item's reseller (sometimes the manufacturer) trying to (up) sell you on extra coverage. That coverage is called an extended warranty, or sometimes a "protection plan" or "service plan/contract." The latter are more accurate, as no one can really extend a warranty except the original manufacturer.
Getting a protection/service plan means you pay more upfront, depending on the item and the coverage. In theory, you do so to make sure you have even more time with the product should it break in that pre-set amount of time, be it a few months, a year, or a few years.<snip>
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/windows-10-faster-performance/
14 Ways to Make Windows 10 Faster and Improve Performance
BY KANNON YAMADA PUBLISHED DEC 06, 2019
It's not hard to make Windows 10 faster. Here are several methods to improve the speed and performance of Windows 10.
windows-10-faster
Making Windows 10 perform faster isn't hard. You just need a few simple tips and tricks. This article covers several methods to make Windows 10 faster and improve its performance.
The Main Focus Areas to Make Windows 10 Faster There are three umbrella categories of optimizing Windows 10's performance:
Operating system tweaks
Software enhancements
App replacement or removal
While hardware upgrades also work, like buying more RAM or investing in an SSD, but those cost money, so I'm going to skip them. Let's start with the most effective ways to speed up Windows 10 and then cover the other options out there.<sbip>
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/tips-first-time-chromebook-user/
21 Essential Tips for First-Time Chromebook Users
BY GAVIN PHILLIPS PUBLISHED MAY 26, 2020
New to Chromebook? It can take a while to adjust, so here are the first things you need to know for your Chromebook.
new-chromebook-user-tips
Quick Links
Create Multiple User Profiles
Use Guest Mode for Guests
Open Apps in Separate Windows
Organize Apps Into Folders
Turn Websites Into Apps
Preview Files Before Opening
Snap Windows to the Left and Right
Force Quit for Frozen Apps
Force Reboot for a Frozen System
Master the Built-In Search Key
Rebind the Special Keys
Learn the System's Keyboard Shortcuts
Right-Click and Middle-Click on Touchpad Swipe Gestures for the Touchpad Quickly Free Up Disk Space Disable Sleep Mode Take Easy Screenshots Enable Optional Features With Flags Experimental Features on Beta and Dev Channels Factory Reset Using Powerwash Switch on Google Assistant Other Chromebook Tips You Might Like <snip>
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/ebook-converter-guide/
The Essential Ebook Converter Guide
BY DAN PRICE PUBLISHED NOV 12, 2018
There are many different file types for ebooks, so you may want to convert one at some point. Here's what you need to know.
ebook-converter-guide
When it comes to ebooks there are more than a dozen common file types. And each of these has different strengths and is compatible with different ereaders. Which is why you might find yourself in need of an ebook converter.
In this article, we'll explain everything there is to know about converting ebooks.<snip>
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/free-alternatives-microsoft-office-365/
The 6 Best Free Alternatives to Microsoft Office 365
BY MANUVIRAJ GODARA UPDATED MAY 12, 2021
Need a free but mighty Microsoft Office 365 alternative? Here are the best office suites to consider.
office-365-alternatives
When it comes to productivity suites, few can compete with Office 365. Microsoft offers customers a complete online and offline workplace experience with Office 365. It is simultaneously easy to use and packed with features for advanced users.
The only caveat is that users will have to shell out $59.99 a year if they want to use it. Thankfully, there are a plethora of free offerings available that offer similar functionality as Office 365.<snip>
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/the-best-6-sites-to-get-free-ebooks/
The 10 Best Free Ebook Download Sites
BY DAN PRICE PUBLISHED MAR 11, 2020
Want free ebook downloads? Here are several of the best sites for downloading free ebooks.
Free ebook downloads are hard to find unless you know the right websites to visit. This article lists some of the best sites that offer free ebooks for you to read.<snip>
https://www.makeuseof.com/digital-libraries-download-ebooks-free/
5 Digital Libraries Where You Can Download Ebooks for Free
BY ANDRA PICINCU 7-18-2021
If you're looking for free ebooks to download and dive into, these digital libraries are worth checking out.
free-digital-libraries
With the advance of digital technology, more and more people are choosing ebooks and audiobooks over printed books. Amazon alone offers millions of ebooks in every category you could think of. Some are free, while others come with a hefty price tag.
The good news is, you can always head over to a digital library to get the information you need when you need it. You just need to know what to look for. With that being said, check out these five digital libraries for free ebooks, audiobooks, and other online resources. <snip>
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/understanding-common-wifi-standards-technology-explained/
The Most Common Wi-Fi Standards and Types, Explained
BY GAVIN PHILLIPS UPDATED JAN 18, 2021
Confused by the various Wi-Fi standards in use? Here's what you need to know about Wi-Fi 6 and older wireless standards.
Wi-Fi is a catch-all term. In a sense, it is very precise. It explains a specific method you can use to connect to the internet.
There are many different types of Wi-Fi standards. Your router, laptop, tablet, smartphone, and smart home devices all use different wireless standards to connect to the internet. Wireless standards change every few years, too. Updates bring faster internet, better connections, more simultaneous connections, and so on.
The issue is that, for most people, the sheer litany of wireless standards and specifications is confusing. Here's the full rundown on Wi-Fi standards.
Wi-Fi Standards Explained
Wireless standards are a set of services and protocols that dictate how your Wi-Fi network (and other data transmission networks) acts.
The most common set of wireless standards you will encounter is the IEEE 802.11 Wireless LAN (WLAN) & Mesh. The IEEE updates the 802.11 Wi-Fi standard every few years. At the time of writing, the current Wi-Fi standard is 802.11ac, while the next generation Wi-Fi standard, 802.11ax, is in the process of rolling out.<snip>
===== 7-16-2021 Articles and websites Links ====
Does an Open Wi-Fi Login Page Mean It's Secure?
An open Wi-Fi login doesn't imply security. If you connect to an open Wi-Fi hotspot without a password and your browser can display anything, it's not a secure connection.
https://askleo.com/16526
The Two Types of Cloud Data Threats and How You Protect Yourself All cloud data threats boil down to one of two things. I'll review them and lay out what you need to do to keep your data is safe in the cloud.
https://askleo.com/128296
Why Do Pictures in Email Sometimes Show as Attachments, and Sometimes in the Message?
Pictures in email don't always display. The reasons are varied and confusing, but I'll review the three most common causes of problems and what you need to do.
https://askleo.com/2861
2020's Most Popular Articles
My annual roundup of which articles got the most attention and generated the most commentary in 2020.
https://askleo.com/128683
Will Microsoft Close My Hotmail Account If I Don't Sign In?
You can lose your account, and everything in it, if you don't sign in often enough. Here's how often you need to, and other ways to protect yourself.
https://askleo.com/128020
How Do I Change the Browser Home Page in Windows 10? Take Control with Quick Instructions for Edge, Firefox, and Chrome Sometimes installers change your browser home page "for you". Other times, homepage content changes. I'll show you how to be more productive and set your homepage to what you want.
https://askleo.com/14912
How Do Cookies Work, and How Do I Delete Them?
Deleting cookies is an easy task. Whether it's necessary or not is another matter.
https://askleo.com/2032
How Do I Decrypt Files Encrypted by Ransomware?
Once your files are encrypted by ransomware, your options are few. If you're not prepared, there are a few straws to grasp at.
https://askleo.com/20068
What's the Best Long-Term Storage Media? Tips to Avoid Losing Data in Your Lifetime Choosing the right long-term storage media is part of protecting your data from degradation or other forms of loss. But there's more to it than just media.
https://askleo.com/5787
Grant Location Permission: Why You Should and When You Shouldn't Granting location permission gives apps and web sites a more accurate idea of exactly where you are. The question is: do they need or do they abuse it?
https://askleo.com/127903
Can I Stop Others from Forwarding Messages?
It's not only impossible to prevent email from being forwarded; you can't even prevent that forward from being altered, forged or defaced.
https://askleo.com/2509
Why You're Being Warned About Windows 10 End of Service and What to Do About It Windows 10 warns when it's coming to "end of service", but what does that mean if Windows 10 is always being updated?
https://askleo.com/127897
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-borrow-and-read-ebooks-from-your-library
How to Borrow and Read Ebooks From Your Local Library Wish you could borrow ebooks from your local library? A few different apps allow you to do just that, including Libby, Overdrive, and Hoopla.
By Lance Whitney Updated July 12, 2021
You can buy ebooks from Amazon, Apple, Google, and other digital retailers, but why buy when you can borrow them from your local library? If your library is signed up with Libby, OverDrive, or Hoopla, you can browse, borrow, and read books directly through the app.
This option includes audiobooks, magazines, and other digital content. Some apps even let you send ebooks to the Amazon Kindle app, where it's easier to read.
The first thing you’ll need is an account with your public or university library. If you plan to visit the library and borrow books, you need a physical card; if you just want to borrow ebooks, some libraries offer a virtual library card instead.
You should also be granted a PIN or username to log into an online account in order to borrow ebooks. If you require a barcode to scan into an app, it should be printed on the library card you receive. If you're unsure how the enrollment process works or are wondering what services you can use, check out the library's website, or contact it directly.
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/stop-mac-apps-from-launching-at-startup
How to Stop Mac Apps From Launching at Startup Does your Mac slow to a crawl thanks to apps that spring to life upon startup? Here's how to disable and manage startup items to stop them in their tracks.
By Jason Cohen Updated July 9, 2021
When your Mac boots up, are you bombarded with a series of programs you didn't open and don't regularly use? Startup apps are convenient, but too many can eat up precious memory and slow down your computer. The good news is that you can fight back.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/remotely-troubleshoot-your-relatives-computer
How to Remotely Troubleshoot a Computer
By Whitson Gordon Updated July 10, 2021
Here's how to access a computer from afar, Mac or PC, to see what's going on.
Being tech-savvy is a gift and a curse. When you know how to fix computers, you become "the computer person" for everyone you know. However, you can’t always troubleshoot in person.
If you're using the same platform as the person you're helping—both on Windows or both on macOS—providing remote tech support is very simple, and you won't need to install any extra software. Helping someone on a different platform gets a bit trickier, but we'll give you the right tools for the job.<Snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/hidden-tricks-inside-windows-10
Hidden Tricks Inside Windows 10
Windows is a vast OS with plenty of well-hidden features. Make the most of Windows 10 with these expert tips.
By Jason Cohen July 9, 2021
Windows 10 is the most popular desktop operating system in the world, and while Windows 11 is nipping at its heels, most of us will still be running Microsoft's current OS for the foreseeable future. And even if you use it every day, there's always more to learn.
Maybe you don't consider yourself a power user, or perhaps you've made the leap from macOS to Windows. Whatever your comfort level, these tips will help you get more out of your Windows 10 experience. Some of these tricks originated from an older generation of Windows, while others are new to this iteration.<snip>
Scanning and printing in room 110
Epson Scanner V-370 Photo Scanner
Ricoh SP5200DN laser printer
https://epson.com/Clearance-Center/Scanners/Epson-Perfection-V370-Photo-Scanner/p/B11B207221
https://www.ricoh-usa.com/en/products/pd/equipment/printers-and-copiers/printers/sp-5200dn-black-and-white-laser-printer/_/R-406722
===== 7-9-2021 Articles and websites Links =====
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/check-out-early-versions-of-microsoft-windows
How to Check Out Early Versions of Windows 10 and Windows 11 Want to peek at the new preview edition of Windows 11 or upcoming new versions of Windows 10? Here's how to join the Windows Insider Program.
By Lance Whitney July 6, 2021
Before Microsoft can add new functionality to Windows, it relies on people to test these new features through the Windows Insider program. This free program allows you to install preview builds of Windows before they're released to the general user base and be among the first to play with cool new features and offer feedback.
In the past few years, the program naturally focused on updates and new releases for Windows 10. However, now that Windows 11 has been unveiled, Microsoft is also offering a preview build for this next generation of Windows. Whether you want to stick with Windows 10 or would like to take Windows 11 for a test drive, the sign-up process is the same.<Snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-tune-up-your-windows-10-pc
How to Tune Up Your Windows 10 PC for Free There are only three unavoidable things in life: death, taxes, and a Windows 10 PC that eventually runs slowly. Kick the operating system back into high gear with these useful tips that won't cost you a dime.
By Jeffrey L. Wilson Updated July 1, 2021
If you've spent sufficient time working or playing on a Windows PC, you've surely felt the sting that comes with firing up a computer and realizing that something is...off. The PC boots slowly. Apps take forever to launch. Files open at a snail's pace. In years past, a third-party tune-up utility was a necessary tool for remedying PC performance issues. Now, Microsoft now ships the Windows 10 operating with numerous, capable, system-enhancing utilities.
Tune-Up Windows 10 With Windows 10
In terms of operation, Windows 10 is a superior operating system compared to Windows 8 and 7. That said, you still to make sure that your PC runs at peak efficiency. Windows 10's built-in tools lets you defragment your hard drives (though, not solid-state drives), delete temporary and duplicate files, and controls the apps that launch when your PC boots. The result? Your PC will boot faster and run smoother.
Unfortunately, Windows 10 lacks a singular tune-up tool; they're scattered across the operating system, lacking a centralized location. The fact that Windows 10 lacks a big Tune-Up My PC button that starts all the wheels turning is a knock against it. Still, the tools are all there, if you're willing to dig for them (don't worry, we'll show you how).
Note: Microsoft doesn't recommend that you use tune-up utilities to tweak Windows 10, as those programs tweak the registry. That's a no-no in Redmond's eyes.<Snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/connect-your-android-phone-to-your-tv
How to Connect Your Android Phone to Your TV You can stream your Android phone or tablet screen to a TV through screen mirroring, Google Cast, a third-party app, or linking it with a cable.
By Eric Ravenscraft Updated July 7, 2021
There are times when you're watching something on your phone and you want to share it with the room or just see it on a bigger display. Those with Android devices have a few options, including built-in features, third-party apps, and cable hookups. Let's break down your choices, from the simplest solution to the most complex.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-manage-your-google-privacy-settings
How to Manage Your Google Privacy Settings Dig into Google's account dashboard to see what the company knows about you.
By Eric Griffith Updated July 7, 2021
A privacy policy is meant to be a contract between you and a company—big tech companies in particular—that ensures these companies are keeping your data safe. One company that has an enormous amount of your data—from email and photos to videos and documents—is Google.
The Google Privacy Policy has been "updated" 37 times since its inception in 1999; it typically happens three or four times a year. To its credit, Google makes all the updates and changes pretty obvious and provides an archive of all previous policies.
It can and will change to suit Google, or to suit new laws and regulations Google has to follow. For example, in 2018, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) completely changed how big companies handle customer data. Even though it's an EU regulation, the GDPR touched any company with personally identifiable info (PII) on customers there. That's definitely Google.
GDPR doesn't necessarily help those of us in the United States, but there are ways to take control of what Google has on you. That means mastering your Google My Account dashboard.<Snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/turn-off-apple-find-my-iphone-tracking
How to Turn Off Apple's Find My App Tracking The Find My app helps you quickly locate a lost Apple device or keep tabs on friends and family, but there are times when you need to disable it, revoke access for specific devices, or stop sharing your location.
By Jason Cohen July 6, 2021
With Apple's find My app on iPhone, iPad, and Mac, you can track the location of a lost phone, find missing luggage with an AirTag, or keep tabs on close friends and family members (with permission). We recommend you keep it on for those reasons, but there are times when you'll need to shut it off.
Perhaps you're selling your device and need to disconnect it from your Apple ID before wiping it. Maybe you just want to purge your device of the services (and people) who can track your location. Whatever the reason, you can shut down the Find My app in a few easy steps.<Snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-disable-web-notifications
How to Disable Web Notifications
Want to receive fewer notifications in your browser? Here's how to control push notifications and block the pop-ups you don't want in Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari.
By Jason Cohen Updated July 4, 2021
Have you ever been minding your own business on the internet, only to be interrupted by a notification promising "the latest news and updates" from the site you're reading? Just click Allow. It sounds enticing, especially if it's a website that you frequent, but what does this mean?
Just like websites can share articles on social media, they can also send their content directly to your browser through a push notification. If you allow these types of notifications to get through, it means you will be pinged each time that website sends out an update. These notifications have their uses (in moderation), but if you aren't interested, it can quickly get annoying.
There are also notifications for when a website tries to use your location or wants access to your camera or microphone. If you don't think you will ever want what any of these notifications are offering, there are ways to disable them or make them less invasive. Here's what you need to know to keep these pop-ups in check.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/schedule-an-email-in-gmail
How to Schedule an Email in Gmail
Don't email your coworkers after hours. Gmail allows you to schedule emails for delivery at a later time or date.
By Jason Cohen Updated July 3, 2021
Are you a night owl who hammers out email after email into the wee hours of the morning? Maybe you spring out of bed at 5 a.m. and start firing off messages to team members, or spend your Sunday night catching up on email before the week starts.
That's great—for you. But there are probably some people on your team who would prefer not to deal with after-hours emails. Even if you say something can wait until morning, many feel compelled to answer right away.
Luckily, Google lets you schedule emails in Gmail, so you can cross things off your to-do list without bothering your coworkers outside of normal business hours. Here's how to schedule an email in Gmail. The process works roughly the same on the web and in the iOS and Android mobile apps.<snip>
Facebook Hacked? What You Need to Do NOW!
Facebook account hacks happen. There are steps to take not only to recover your account, but to prevent it from being hacked again.
https://askleo.com/7708
Can I Tell If Someone Blocked My Texts and Email?
Email and texting usually works, but when it doesn't, there's just no way to tell if someone has blocked you.
https://askleo.com/3177
Are the Free Microsoft Office Alternatives for Windows 10 Any Good?
Depending on how you use your word processing program, you may be able to find a good, free alternative to Word.
https://askleo.com/13647
Why Did My Security Software Not Detect a Virus on My PC?
Even with up-to-date anti-malware tools, you can still fall victim to malware. I'll explain why by comparing your computer to your ... bathroom.
https://askleo.com/6276
Cloud Storage as Cloud Backup: Four Safety Rules Cloud service providers often give us lots of storage we can use for cloud backup. How to use it safely, however, isn't always obvious.
https://askleo.com/16362
Can People Track My Email Address Location?
Email addresses can be used to locate public information, which could allow someone to track your location from your email address. Use caution when sharing it with someone you don't trust.
https://askleo.com/4944
Can I Stop Others from Forwarding Messages?
It's not only impossible to prevent email from being forwarded; you can't even prevent that forward from being altered, forged or defaced.
https://askleo.com/2509
===== 7-2-2021 Articles and websites Links =====
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/tricks-to-master-google-photos
19 Tricks to Master Google Photos
Unlimited photo storage may be gone, but Google Photos still has plenty to offer. Here's everything you need to know about Google's photo storage and editing service.
By Eric Griffith June 30, 2021
Internet users are not at a loss for services that automatically back up photos and provide access to them on any device. There's Dropbox, OneDrive, Amazon Photos, and iCloud, just to start. But Google Photos has grown fast since its launch in 2015.
The news about Google Photos lately hasn't been rosy, though. It once offered truly unlimited backup of all the photos (and videos) you take for free, even if it did downgrade any pics over 16 megapixels. Not anymore. Now, every picture you upload, no matter the size, counts against your allotted 15GB of free online storage with Google, which is shared with Gmail, Google Drive, and other Google services.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/copy-your-windows-installation-to-an-ssd
How to Copy Your Windows Installation to an SSD If you’re looking to upgrade your computer to a solid-state drive but don’t want to start everything back up from scratch, here’s how to transfer your data onto your new hard drive.
By Whitson Gordon Updated June 28, 2021 If you're still using a traditional, spinning hard disk on your PC, you're missing out. Swapping it out for a solid-state drive (SSD) is one of the best upgrades you can make in terms of speeding up your computer. It'll boot faster, programs will launch instantly, and games won't take so long to load anymore.
You could reinstall Windows from scratch, and in some situations, that may be preferable—but with the right tools, you can get up and running much quicker by copying your entire drive over to the new SSD.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/10-essential-steps-for-protecting-your-identity-online
Prevent Identity Theft With These 10 Essential Steps Having your identity stolen can be a real nightmare. Our simple steps can help you protect yourself from having your identity stolen online.
By Neil J. Rubenking Updated July 1, 2021
A stolen identity can ruin your life. You could wake up one morning and find your bank accounts empty, or find yourself locked out of them. You might have a surprise lien on your house. You could even wake to the police pounding on your door, if some malefactor committed a crime using your identity details. How can you head off these potential disasters? Here are some simple tips that can help you foil identity thieves. None of these will guarantee your safety against a hacker who has targeted you personally, but so many people fail to protect themselves that most criminals go for the easy marks. These ten tips can help make sure you, and your identity, aren't among the chumps.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/quitting-google-photos-how-to-manage-your-photos-with-microsoft-onedrive
Quitting Google Photos? How to Manage Your Photos With Microsoft OneDrive OneDrive is an effective alternative to Google Photos if you already have plenty of storage space with Microsoft.
By Lance Whitney June 29, 2021
Now that Google Photos no longer offers free unlimited photo storage, you may want to check out a different online service to store and manage your photos. If you’re a PC user, Microsoft OneDrive may be worth considering because it’s built into Windows 10 and is seamless and easily accessible.
Though OneDrive isn’t a dedicated photo manager like Google Photos, you can still use it to back up, sync, and share your photos from your PC, the mobile app, and on the web. It can also be used to view, manage, and search for photos, create special albums, view photos by location, and automatically upload any images taken on your mobile device.
The major downside with OneDrive is that it offers only 5GB of free storage. And that amount of space is for all of your files, not just your photos. Even Google Photos still gives you 15GB of free storage. However, if you’re an Office 365 subscriber, you get a whopping 1TB of OneDrive space. Otherwise, you can score 100GB of storage for $1.99 a month.
Now, let’s look at the ways to enlist OneDrive as your photo manager. For the steps here, we’ll assume you’re already using OneDrive for file backup and syncing.<Snip>
===== 6-25-2021 Articles and websites Links =====
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/hidden-chrome-features-that-will-make-your-life-easier
Hidden Chrome Features That Will Make Your Life Easier Google's Chrome browser has a ton of hidden little tricks you may not know about. Here are some of the most helpful tips that will make you a better Chrome user.
By Jason Cohen June 22, 2021
If search engines are our window to the internet, a web browser is the window frame. A good browser should support basic search functions, but the most popular choices act as their own operating system for accessing the web. However, no option has become more ubiquitous with online living than Google's Chrome browser, which has about 65% of the market.
While there is still plenty of debate over which web browser is the best, there's a reason why many alternatives to Chrome, including Microsoft's Edge and Opera, are based on Google's open-source Chromium project.
One of the reasons for Chrome's popularity is its clean, polished UI and its versatility. While Chrome's abilities multiply greatly when you consider the near-bottomless library of extensions, there's a bounty of stock functionality embedded throughout Chrome you may not even know about. And Google is adding new functionality all the time.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/view-cached-version-of-a-website
How to View the Cached Version of a Website Want to view old web pages or a site that's currently offline? Here's how to find and access cached web pages using Google, the Wayback Machine, and other tools.
By Jason Cohen June 19, 2021
It's easy to forget the impermanence of the internet. Pages are edited without warning and websites can disappear overnight.
There are plenty of ways to lose access to a site or web page. Maybe the servers are down, or perhaps the site owner has altered or removed the content you're trying to find. In these cases, one option is to view the cached version.
Google regularly crawls the web searching for new pages to index, while also saving backup copies of the pages it scans. Web browsers do the same in order to load pages faster. These snapshots are preserved in the cache—an area of your local hard drive that is temporarily accessible if a site goes down or certain content is removed. Not all websites are indexed by Google or saved in a cache, but for those that are, here's how to access them.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/tips-for-public-wi-fi-hotspot-security
13 Tips for Public Wi-Fi Hotspot Security Public Wi-Fi hotspots can be a hacker's paradise. Following these basic security tips can mean the difference between safe surfing and an ID theft or data-loss nightmare.
By Eric Griffith June 22, 2021
People are addicted to free Wi-Fi. They need it, they crave it, and they don't think twice about connecting to any network that can get them online in most cases. Getting Wi-Fi in a hotel, on an airplane, even in a restaurant or bar drives decision-making on where to go and stay. Many people even use public Wi-Fi in hotels/rentals to watch adult content—and I'm not talking about HBO Max. Yet most people can't tell a secure Wi-Fi network from an insecure one.
For many, public Wi-Fi hotspots are too convenient to ignore. But they're risky, especially because it's not that hard to make sure you're secure. Some of the tips below involve common sense; the rest you can set up before you leave the house or office. Make sure the next hotspot you connect to—be it in a café or in the sky—isn't a security nightmare waiting to happen. <snip>
My Email Is Hacked, How Do I Fix It? - 7 Things You Need to Do NOW!
If your email is hacked, there are several steps you need to take to fix it and prevent it from being hacked again. https://askleo.com/5415
How Do I Copy Text from a Copy Protected Website?
Assuming your intent is legal or at least moral, it's not hard to copy content from a webpage that attempts to prevent it. https://askleo.com/4360
What Recovery Email Address Should I Use?
Your recovery email address is easy to overlook and forget, but it can be critical to regaining access to a compromised account. Here's what you need to do.
https://askleo.com/127155
How Do I Find Out What Program Is Using All My CPU?
Occasionally, one program uses all of your computer's processing resources. Using Task Manager, it's easy to figure out which program that is.
https://askleo.com/3003
What Good Is an Image If I Can't Restore an Old Backup to a New Computer?
Image backups are excellent protection against data loss, but restoring an old backup to new computer isn't why you do them.
https://askleo.com/3963
How Do I Report a Bug in Windows 10?
It's easy to report a bug in Windows 10. The question is, is it worth your time?
https://askleo.com/4385
Why Am I Getting Bounces for Email I Didn't Send?
Spammers want to send email that looks like it's coming from someone who may be trusted. They want it to look like it's coming from you -- and you end up getting the bounce notifications.
https://askleo.com/3606
What Happens If You Delete System32 in Windows 10?
Apparently, there's a prank or scam suggesting that people delete their System32 folder. Don't do it. It's a trap!
https://askleo.com/127295
How to Back Up Before a Windows 10 Upgrade Always back up before a Windows 10 upgrade, update, or reinstall. Create a full system image backup of up your entire machine.
https://askleo.com/19932
What Backup Program Should I Use?
Backing up your computer's data is critical. What backup program should you use? There are many, but pragmatically, the best is whatever you'll actually use.
https://askleo.com/1894
Is it Safe to Allow Remote Access?
It can be safe to allow remote access, but it requires absolute trust. The risks are significant, especially since scammers have become involved.
https://askleo.com/3767
Can I Trust Browser Extensions?
Some web browser extensions are trustworthy and very valuable; others, not so much. The trick is knowing the difference. Start by being skeptical.
https://askleo.com/127410
A One-step Way to Lose Your Account Forever I see people lose access to their most important accounts all the time. It's often their own fault that they can't regain access.
https://askleo.com/15584
Can I Tell If Someone Blocked My Texts and Email?
Email and texting usually works, but when it doesn't, there's just no way to tell if someone has blocked you.
https://askleo.com/3177
===== 6-18-2021 Articles and websites Links =====
Why Is It So Important to Use Different Passwords for Everything?
Using different passwords on different sites is not only good practice, it's necessary to keep your accounts safe. I'll review why, and how best to handle a plethora of passwords.
https://askleo.com/11788
Less Common Reasons Your Computer May Slow Down Your computer may slow down for many reasons; these are some of the less common ones still worth looking for.
https://askleo.com/126880
Is it Safe to Delete Duplicate Files?
Programs that identify identical files can be useful, but simply deleting the duplicates they find can cause more harm than good.
https://askleo.com/3072
How Do I Hack Someone's Account? How Do I Hack My Own?
Hacking into someone's account may seem like an answer to a problem. In reality, all it does is open a much larger can of worms and put you at more risk.
https://askleo.com/2590
Don't Call Yourself Stupid
Some people call themselves "dumb" or "stupid" when it comes to computers. There's little that frustrates me more.
https://askleo.com/13521
Deal with Computer Clutter to Speed Things Up Files accumulating on your machine can result in increased computer clutter, decreased performance, and even less stability.
https://askleo.com/126646
How Do I Use an Open Wi-Fi Hotspot Safely?
Open Wi-Fi hotspots at coffee shops and other public places are opportunities for hackers. I'll review how to stay safe.
https://askleo.com/4790
Reboot or Power Down: Why Do So Many Tech Support Solutions Start with That?
The first thing a diagnostic technician may ask you to do is reboot your computer. Why?
https://askleo.com/2434
Getting Rid of Bing in Windows Search
We can't change the search engine used by Windows Search when searching the web, but we can avoid Bing by not having Windows Search search the web at all.
https://askleo.com/126808
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-get-google-to-quit-tracking-you
How to Get Google to Quit Tracking Your Location Here's how to turn off Google's tracking abilities for Google Maps and other services on iOS, Android, and the desktop.
By Jason Cohen June 12, 2021
Where you go, Google goes. Google Maps in particular keeps track of every step you (and your smartphone) take and archives that activity in your Google Timeline. It might seem like a walk down memory lane, but it can also leave the door to your privacy wide open.
With Timeline, Google Maps can show you where you're going and where you've been. There might even be photographic evidence, since Timeline syncs with any shots uploaded to Google Photos. You can also share your location with anyone in real time on iOS and Android.
If you'd prefer to keep your whereabouts private without completely ditching Google, you can remove your location history and tell it to stop following you. Here's how.<snip>
Attached is the Computer Tips Doc shared with us by Buddy Fred Lewis. Thx, Fred!
===== 6-11-2021 Articles and websites Links =====
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-increase-your-laptop-battery-life
How to Increase Your Laptop Battery Life Close your apps when you're not using them. Never prop up your notebook on a pillow. These and seven more easy tips will help you squeeze longer battery life out of your Windows 10 or Mac laptop.
By Tom Brant October 28, 2020
The inconvenient truth is that the battery in your PC or Mac laptop won't last as long as the manufacturer advertises unless you pay attention to some key factors: your power settings, how many apps you're running, even the temperature of the room in which you're working. The good news is that none of this requires much work to sort out, once you know which settings to adjust. Let's take a look at the highest-yield, least-effort ways to get the most out of your laptop's battery. <snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/9-tips-to-boost-your-android-phones-battery-life
9 Tips to Boost Your Android Phone's Battery Life Today's Android phones pack big, bright screens and high-end features that suck plenty of power. Here's how to squeeze the most juice out of your battery.
By Jason Cohen December 6, 2020
There are a number of factors that contribute to poor battery life on your Android phone. Thinner bodies, brighter screens, faster processors, more background software, and speedier internet connections all take their toll on phone batteries, but manufacturers are also incorporating more powerful batteries to compensate.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-free-up-space-on-your-iphone-or-ipad
How to Free Up Space on Your iPhone or iPad Is the storage full on your iOS device? Here's how to figure out what's taking up the most space on your iPhone and iPad so you can decide what to delete.
By Jill Duffy & Chandra Steele May 2, 2019
How much space is left on your iOS device? Do you hit a wall whenever you try to update your OS or download new apps? What's the best way to move files you want to keep in order to free up space? And how can you make smart decisions about what to keep and what to delete? Follow these few simple steps, and you'll be on your way to a less overloaded, more organized iPhone or iPad.<snip>
https://listoffreeware.com/sitemap/
About Us -- We are the team behind some of the most popular tech blogs, like: I LoveFree Software and Windows 8 Freeware. We have made this website to provide a central place where all type of free software can be found. So, if you are looking for a free video editor, then instead of going to multiple sites to see various video editors, you can just come to this site and see the best video editors listed in one page.
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/technology/apple-s-tightly-controlled-app-store-is-teeming-with-scams/ar-AAKL0TG
Apple’s tightly controlled App Store is teeming with scams by Reed Albergotti, Chris Alcantara The Washington Post Apple chief executive Tim Cook has long argued it needs to control app distribution on iPhones, otherwise the App Store would turn into “a flea market.”
But among the 1.8 million apps on the App Store, scams are hiding in plain sight. Customers for several VPN apps, which allegedly protect users’ data, complained in Apple App Store reviews that the apps told users their devices have been infected by a virus to dupe them into downloading and paying for software they don’t need. A QR code reader app that remains on the store tricks customers into paying $4.99 a week for a service that is now included in the camera app of the iPhone. Some apps fraudulently present themselves as being from major brands such as Amazon and Samsung.
Of the highest 1,000 grossing apps on the App Store, nearly two percent are scams, according to an analysis by The Washington Post.<snip>
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/technology/amazon-is-about-to-share-your-internet-connection-with-neighbors-here-s-how-to-turn-it-off/ar-AAKMK3y
Amazon is about to share your Internet connection with neighbors. Here’s how to turn it off.
by Geoffrey Fowler, The Washington Post There’s an eyebrow-raising technology buried inside millions of Amazon Echo smart speakers and Ring security cameras. They have the ability to make a new kind of wireless network called Sidewalk that shares a slice of your home Internet connection with your neighbors’ devices.
And on Tuesday, Amazon is switching Sidewalk on — for everyone. <snip> Sidewalk authorizes your Echo to share a portion of your home’s Internet bandwidth. It’s up to 500 megabytes per month — the rough equivalent of more than 150 cellphone photos. Amazon caps it at a rate of 80 Kbps, which the company says is a fraction of the bandwidth used to stream a typical high-definition video. Still, this traffic could count toward your Internet service provider’s data cap, if you’ve got one. The bill will be paid by you, not Amazon. <snip>
===== 6-4-2021 Articles and websites Links =====
Storage changes for Google Photos
What’s changing?
https://support.google.com/photos/answer/10100180?hl=en
Microsoft dumps Calibri for one of these newfangled typefaces.
https://www.techrepublic.com/article/microsoft-dumps-calibri-for-one-of-these-newfangled-typefaces
Stamp out file compatibility woes
[Thank you, Kim Komando]
Sharing files with other people can be a real hassle. That's because not everybody uses the same software as you. You may not be able to open the file. You could ask your friend to save the file in a different format. But who wants to be a pest?
Instead, try YouConvertIt. This free site will convert files to different formats quickly and easily. Just select your files and choose a format.
TO VISIT TODAY'S COOL SITE, GO HERE: www.youconvertit.com
I switched to using a Mac. And, just as with my PC, I wanted to find a lot of open source software to meet my basic computing needs.
What follows is a list of twenty five pieces of software that are the cream of the crop of open source software for Macs. Not only is every piece of it free, many of them directly replace expensive software packages.
https://www.thesimpledollar.com/save-money/25-useful-pieces-of-free-and-open-software-for-macs/
What follows is a list of thirty pieces of software that are the cream of the crop of open source software for Windows. Not only is every piece of it free, almost all of them directly replace expensive software packages.
https://www.thesimpledollar.com/save-money/30-essential-pieces-of-free-and-open-software-for-windows/
MSCONFIG vs Task Manager vs Autoruns
https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/sysinternals/downloads/autoruns
Autoruns for Windows v13.100
By Mark Russinovich Published: April 23, 2021
Download Autoruns (2.6 MB) or run now from Sysinternals Live.
Introduction
This utility, which has the most comprehensive knowledge of auto-starting locations of any startup monitor, shows you what programs are configured to run during system bootup or login, and when you start various built-in Windows applications like Internet Explorer, Explorer and media players. These programs and drivers include ones in your startup folder, Run, RunOnce, and other Registry keys. Autoruns reports Explorer shell extensions, toolbars, browser helper objects, Winlogon notifications, auto-start services, and much more. Autoruns goes way beyond other autostart utilities.
<snip>
https://askleo.com/never-attribute-to-malice/
The Best of Ask Leo!
Never Attribute to Malice . . .
Jumping to the wrong conclusion rarely helps.
Malicious intent is commonly understood to be the cause of technological trials and tribulations. It's usually the wrong assumption to make.
The pithy statement above is referred to as Hanlon's Razor.
It keeps coming to mind as I hear from people who are absolutely convinced that malice is at play in whatever they're experiencing.
It's rarely the case.
Never attribute to malice that which is adequately explained by stupidity, error, or failure.
Just as it's rarely malice at play, it's not always stupidity either. All people, smart and stupid, make mistakes. Failures — particularly hardware failures — happen. <snip>
--- Info from Computer Buddy Larry Everett ---
Microsoft has committed to no more than two releases each year. The first release for 2021 was listed as 21H1. So, will the June 24 be a new 2nd release for 2021. The answer is NO. Windows 10 21H1 was mainly a security release with no substantive new features or “looks”.
The June 24 appears to be just an announcement of “things to come.”. This is a Marketing announcement. It will remain to be determined what the 2nd 2021 Windows 10 release 21H2 will incorporate. Generally, marketing announcements with new features is mostly “hype”. Engineering development will determine what new features will actually be incorporated into the new release. Engineering will be under a deadline to release a new product and will make the deadline, but some of the “hype” new features may not make it into the 21H2 release. This is always true for all software manufacturers. I am speaking from my past experiences having been both in Engineering and Marketing in the old GE/Honeywell days.
https://www.howtogeek.com/685996/whats-new-in-windows-10s-21h1-update-coming-spring-2021/
What’s New in Windows 10’s May 2021 Update (21H1), Available Now
CHRIS HOFFMAN MAY 18, 2021
Windows 10’s May 2021 Update, also known as 21H1, was released on May 18, 2021. Like the 20H2 update, this is a smaller update that focuses on security improvements and polish. The big features originally planned for 21H1 have been delayed to 21H2 in late 2021.
https://www.theverge.com/2021/6/2/22465126/microsoft-windows-event-june-24th
Microsoft to reveal its next generation of Windows on June 24th.
A special Windows event is coming later this month.
By Tom Warren Jun 2, 2021
https://www.windowscentral.com/windows-10-sun-valley-features-everything-we-know
Windows Sun Valley: Everything we know so far.
A design refresh, new features, and an attempt to bring Windows back into the spotlight.
ZAC BOWDEN, 3 Jun 2021
--- Info from Computer Buddy Fred Lewis ---
Hi John,
I read a lot and came across an on-line article with many computer tips and tricks for PC and MAC. I copied it into a word document, attached it and thought you and the buddies would be interested in it. Feel free to pass it around in your weekly email.
Regards, Fred Lewis
Fred's Audio Visual Services, "We Capture Your Memories" (TM) 763-244-7283
-----------------------
Fred's 25 pages of tips is available free, by email, to any buddy replying and requesting the pdf.
Also available at the Tuesday CB meeting.
John McHugh
Another website showing 42 local broadcast tv station program schedules now and 2.5 hours in advance: https://www.locast.org/cities/613
What to Do When Your Computer Screen Won't Show a Picture
Has your computer screen stopped working? Here are some troubleshooting steps to take if your monitor fails to display a picture. By Whitson Gordon May 27, 2021
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/what-to-do-when-your-computer-screen-wont-show-a-picture
John says -- Some of the recommendations for adjustments require the screen to be working...a problem when the screen isn't displaying. If you have two computers using two different inputs on a fancy monitor, some monitors require both be turned on. It won't allow you to switch between the two if one isn’t outputting a signal [my personal experience.]
===== 5-29-2021 Articles and websites Links =====
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-carry-your-vaccination-card-on-your-phone
How to Carry Your Vaccination Card on Your Phone
With mask restrictions changing, you might have to pull out proof of vaccination. But the official vaccine card doesn't fit easily in a wallet. Here's how to keep it handy on your phone.
By Chandra Steele May 24, 2021
After an initial rollout that left people anxiously refreshing Twitter feeds and state health websites for appointment slots, COVID-19 vaccinations are going into arms across the country, and there is ample opportunity in the US to get vaccinated.
It's a privilege that's not available in many other places, and if you've taken advantage of it, you're probably wondering what to do with that white proof-of-vaccine card you were handed alongside your "I got the jab!" sticker.
There are no clear answers on whether or not you should laminate your COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card. With mask rules changing, you never know when you may have to produce it, but the card is larger than a credit card or driver's license, making it easy to damage in a wallet. Apps are usually the answer to dilemmas like this, but there aren't that many universal ones, so we have a few options.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/google-chromecast-tips-tricks
18 Things You Didn't Know Your Google Chromecast Could Do
While Google's ultraportable media-streaming device is pretty much plug and play, there are a few tips and tricks that can make casting more magical.
By Chandra Steele May 25, 2021
Google helps simplify your online life—from email and online storage to news and digital maps. But it can also take over your TV with the Chromecast.
Google currently sells two versions of its media-streaming device—the Chromecast Ultra and Chromecast With Google TV. The latter gave Google's dongle a much-needed makeover, adding a remote and an on-screen menu. Many people, however, are probably still casting via legacy devices; the Chromecast has been around since 2013. Its functionality is also built into many of today's top smart TVs.
However you "cast" your content, part of the Chromecast's appeal lies in its portability and ease of use; just plug it in, connect to Wi-Fi, and you'll be streaming Netflix, Spotify, HBO Max, Hulu, and more from your mobile device or PC to the TV in no time. Not to mention apps for music, working out, and catching up on sports.
Later this year, those with the Chromecast With Google TV will be able to use their phones as a remote for the streamer on Android 11 and 12 via the Quick Settings menu. 9to5Google reports that the remote feature is coming to iOS via the Google Home app, too.
While the ultraportable devices are pretty much plug and play, there are a few tips and tricks that can make casting more magical. Check them out below.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-send-large-files-over-the-internet
How to Send Large Files Over the Internet
Trying to figure out how to transfer large files online? Gmail and Yahoo have a 25MB limit, but don't worry; there are other ways to send your work without hitting an error message.
By Lance Whitney Updated May 26, 2021
Have you ever tried to email a file to someone, only for your mail service to tell you that it’s too big? It’s a frustrating but common problem. Most email services and software restrict the size of file attachments. For example, Gmail and Yahoo limit the size of attached files to 25MB, so that 100MB video isn't going through. But email is not your only choice; many standalone file-transfer services can take on the job. Here are several ways to send large files over the internet.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/prepare-your-digital-life-for-your-death
How to Prepare Your Digital Life for Your Death
Death is inevitable. Don't make it harder on those you leave behind. Here's how to let loved ones manage passwords, sensitive data, and social media profiles after you die.
By Eric Ravenscraft May 21, 2021
Death is as somber as it is inevitable. But as we live more of our lives online, it's more important than ever to make sure loved ones can access digital accounts when we're gone. Don't be the guy who locked cryptocurrency exchange customers out of $250 million after his death because only he knew the password.
There are a number of ways loved ones can request access to your accounts once you're gone, but they don't need that stress. Several online services allow you to designate legacy contacts or grant access after a period of inactivity. Here's how to make sure those you leave behind can manage your affairs after you head to the great beyond.<snip>
===== 5-21-2021 Articles and websites Links =====
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/manage-sync-and-share-files-in-microsoft-onedrive
How to Manage, Sync, and Share Files in Microsoft OneDrive
With Microsoft OneDrive, you can back up and sync your folders and files in the cloud and share them with friends and family.
By Lance Whitney Updated May 17, 2021
You can house your files in the cloud at a variety of online storage sites—including Dropbox, Box, Google Drive, and iCloud—but only Microsoft OneDrive is built directly into Windows 10.
With OneDrive, you can store documents, photos, and other files online and sync them across multiple computers and devices. You can also share any file on OneDrive with other people.
To use OneDrive, you need a Microsoft Account, which you can set up through the Microsoft account website. You will also need the right type of storage plan for your needs. A basic free plan offers you 5GB of OneDrive space. For $1.99 a month, you can score 100GB of real estate. A subscription to Microsoft 365 Personal ($6.99 a month or $69.99 a year) grants you a hefty 1TB of OneDrive space, while Microsoft 365 Family ($9.99/month or $99.99/year) doles out 1TB each for up to six users.
Set Up OneDrive <snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/convert-a-word-document-into-a-powerpoint-presentation
How to Convert a Word Document Into a PowerPoint Presentation
Microsoft will now export a Word document into PowerPoint; no need to create the presentation from scratch.
By Lance Whitney May 17, 2021
You’ve written a Word document on a topic that you need to present before an audience, and now you need to create a presentation out of it. In the past, you’d have to create the slideshow from scratch, but Microsoft now offers a feature that will automatically convert a Word document into a PowerPoint presentation.
The feature, known as Export to PowerPoint, works only in the web versions of Word and PowerPoint. With it, you can export text, but images and videos will need to be added manually. However, this is a much easier task knowing that most of the manual labor has been done for you. The feature will also give you visual themes to pick before exporting is complete.
Create a Word Document
To get started, sign into the Microsoft 365 website to see your most recent documents and files. You can access Word or PowerPoint through a paid Microsoft 365 subscription or for free with a regular Microsoft Account.
Open Recent Document <snip>
Is Using the Cloud Safe?
As security compromises seem to happen regularly, many ask, "Is using the cloud safe?" It's as safe as you make it.
https://askleo.com/5701
Is a Periodic Password Change a Good Thing?
Changing passwords periodically is conventional wisdom. I disagree, and then discuss whether periodic password change can even happen reliably.
https://askleo.com/4294
How Do I Delete Files From OneDrive, but Not My Computer?
There are a couple of ways to delete files from OneDrive without deleting them from your PC: move them or stop using OneDrive.
https://askleo.com/126891
Why is My Computer Slow After Startup?
Log in and ... wait. System slowness at log in time is not uncommon, and I'll look at some of the possible causes and solutions.
https://askleo.com/4778
How Do I Hack Someone's Account? How Do I Hack My Own?
Hacking into someone's account may seem like an answer to a problem. In reality, all it does is open a much larger can of worms and put you at more risk.
https://askleo.com/2590
===== 5-14-2021 Articles and websites Links =====
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-add-multiple-email-and-microsoft-accounts-to-windows-10
How to Add Multiple Email and Microsoft Accounts to Windows 10 Maybe you have a Yahoo account for email, a Google account for calendar appointments, or an Outlook account for contacts. Here's how to add them to Windows 10 for easy access.
By Lance Whitney May 10, 2021
Whether you use a local account or a Microsoft Account to sign into Windows 10, you may have other accounts that you use for specific apps. Maybe you have a Yahoo account for email, a Google account for calendar appointments, or an Outlook account for contacts. You might even have another Microsoft Account to run specific Microsoft apps and services.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-merge-gmail-accounts
How to Merge Gmail Accounts
There’s no need to juggle multiple email accounts when you can combine them into one.
By Lance Whitney May 9, 2021
You have two separate Gmail accounts, each with its own email address, contacts, and calendar. After trying to juggle both, you now want to merge them into one single, more manageable account. What are your options?
Google offers no way to merge two or more accounts, but there are workarounds. You can forward emails, import saved emails and contacts, and transfer your calendar appointments between the two accounts. Here's how to set this up.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-do-a-reverse-image-search-from-your-phone
How to Do a Reverse Image Search From Your Phone Google's reverse image search is a breeze on a desktop, but what about when you're on a mobile device? Google, Bing, and others have options.
By Eric Griffith Updated April 21, 2021
Image Search is the ability to search on a term and find images related to what you typed. Most search engines offer it, and it's great. But what if you have an image and want to know its origin? Or find similar photos? That's a reverse image search. <snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/view-saved-wi-fi-passwords
How to View Saved Wi-Fi Passwords
Are you connected to Wi-Fi on one device, but need the password to log in on another one? Here's how to find Wi-Fi passwords in Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.
By Whitson Gordon Updated May 12, 2021
Need a Wi-Fi password? Maybe you're visiting a friend's house, but they're busy. Or your laptop is connected, but your phone is not. There are ways to wirelessly share passwords between devices, but if that's not an option, here's how to grab the Wi-Fi password from your already-connected devices.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/hidden-facebook-features-only-power-users-know
15 Hidden Facebook Features Only Power Users Know Think you're a Facebook expert? Whether you've been using it for years or just jumped on board, here's how to customize the social network to your needs.
By Eric Griffith May 12, 2021
Despite its issues, and there are many, Facebook remains today's main digital public square. Politicians and journalists gravitate toward Twitter, Gen Z loves Snapchat and TikTok, and Facebook fills in the gaps everywhere else.
A few years of scandals have yet to make much of an impact on Facebook's bottom line. In the US and Canada, it had its best-ever quarter for ad revenue in Q4 2020, according to Statista. Monthly active users on the platform in the US/Canada continue to go up. Facebook is not synonymous with "the internet," (despite its best efforts), but its website and apps offer a bevy of personalization options. Read on to awaken your inner social networking guru.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/windows-10-tips-for-mac-users
15 Windows 10 Tips for Mac Users
So you’re a diehard Mac user who’s decided to dip your toes in the Windows PC waters. Here’s our primer of tips that can help you after you take the plunge.
By Michael Muchmore May 13, 2021
Ardent Mac users claim they never would use a Windows PC. This article is not for them. It's for the Mac users who either need to use PCs for their work or have some curiosity about what’s going on in the other camp—particularly with the arrival of new Windows 10 features and intriguing hardware like the Surface line, from the massive Studio down to the Surface Go. Switching from one OS to another always involves adjustments; our tips are intended to smooth your transition.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/spot-a-fake-review-on-amazon
How to Spot a Fake Review on Amazon
Amazon and other e-commerce websites are flooded with bogus reviews. These online tools will help you identify a fake review and save you from choosing a product that's not worth your money.
By Jason Cohen Updated May 12, 2021
As wonderful as the internet can be, it also lies to us every day. Fake reviews—seemingly legitimate assessments created by a seller or someone paid by them—are becoming harder to spot. With online shopping continuing to skyrocket, fake reviews are big business, but they can end up costing you serious money.<snip>
https://www.cnet.com/home/internet/heres-how-to-sign-up-for-a-50-discount-on-your-internet-bill-from-the-fcc-emergency-broadband-benefit/
The FCC is offering a $50 monthly internet discount. Here's who's eligible Starting May 12, eligible Americans can take advantage of a new government subsidy designed to offset the cost of getting connected at home.
Ry Crist May 8, 2021
Remote learning, telehealth, online socializing and more pandemic-era norms have pushed our internet usage to the max.
The ongoing pandemic has made the importance of a dependable broadband connection at home abundantly clear, but connections like that aren't always easy for Americans to afford. Now, the Federal Communications Commission wants to help with a new subsidy program called the Emergency Broadband Benefit -- and those who qualify can sign up starting this week, on May 12 to receive $50 off their monthly internet bill, among other benefits.
Sound good to you? Here's how to tell if you qualify, how you can enroll, and everything else you should know.<snip>
https://www.technologyreview.com/2021/05/06/1024621/china-apple-spy-uyghur-hacker-tianfu/
Computing/Cybersecurity
How China turned a prize-winning iPhone hack against the Uyghurs An attack that targeted Apple devices was used to spy on China’s Muslim minority—and US officials claim it was developed at the country’s top hacking competition.
by Patrick Howell O'Neill May 6, 2021
Beijing secretly used an award-winning iPhone hack to spy on Uyghurs The United States tracked the attack and informed Apple Tianfu Cup is a “venue for China to get zero-days,” say experts In March 2017, a group of hackers from China arrived in Vancouver with one goal: Find hidden weak spots inside the world’s most popular technologies.
Google’s Chrome browser, Microsoft’s Windows operating system, and Apple’s iPhones were all in the crosshairs. But no one was breaking the law. These were just some of the people taking part in Pwn2Own, one of the world’s most prestigious hacking competitions.<snip>
https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-report-spam-text-messages
Home › Privacy, Identity & Online Security › Online Security › How to Recognize and Report Spam Text Messages How to Recognize and Report Spam Text Messages If you have a cell phone, you probably use it dozens of times a day to text people you know. But have you ever gotten a text message from an unknown sender? It could be a scammer trying to steal your personal information. Find out what you can do about unwanted text messages and how to report them.<snip>
https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT211995
How to upgrade from iCloud Documents and Data to iCloud Drive In May 2022, iCloud Documents and Data, our legacy document syncing service, will be discontinued and completely replaced by iCloud Drive. If you use iCloud Documents and Data, your account will be migrated to iCloud Drive after this date.
If you use the iCloud Documents and Data service, you need to turn on iCloud Drive using the steps below to see your files. Upgrading to iCloud Drive doesn't change the amount of storage space your saved files use in iCloud.<snip>
===== 5-7-2021 Articles and websites Links =====
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/tips-for-google-meet
Master Google Meet With Our 10 Simple Tips
By Jill Duffy April 29, 2021
Video conferencing is more popular than ever, and Google Meet is one of the top free platforms. Our guide walks you through simple, powerful ways you can improve your video calls on Google Meet.
Video calling apps have seen plenty of use since the COVID-19 pandemic began as so many of us are spending more time at home—working and otherwise. To keep up with demand, Google gave every Google account holder access to Google Meet for their video calls. In other words, Meet isn't just included in paid G Suite plans—anyone with a Gmail address can use it, though free account holders are now limited to 60-minute calls.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-connect-your-iphone-or-ipad-to-your-tv
How to Connect Your iPhone or iPad to Your TV
By Eric Griffith & Jason Cohen April 28, 2021
Your iOS devices are great media players, but sometimes you want to watch on a big screen. Here's how to connect your phone to your TV.
Mobile devices have bigger screens than ever before, but sometimes your iPhone or iPad display is still just too small for streaming video or watching the game. Fortunately, it's easy enough to connect your Apple device to any modern TV for a true big-screen experience.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-listen-to-tv-with-your-headphones
How to Listen to TV With Your Headphones
By Will Greenwald Updated April 28, 2021
You don't need to share your TV's audio with everyone around you. These are the easiest ways to connect your headphones to your television.
When you're watching TV with friends, your TV's speakers (or better yet, a soundbar) let everyone hear what's going on. When you're watching TV on your own, you don't need to share that audio with everyone around you. In fact, you probably don't want to disturb your significant other, roommates, kids, or neighbors if you're the only one watching TV late at night, or if you're using your TV as a second monitor while working from home. You can mute the speakers and rely on closed captions if you really want to be silent, but we have a better solution: Use headphones.<snip>
burning optical discs
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Optical_disc_recording_technologies#Overburning
https://alternativeto.net/software/nero-burning-rom/
http://www.dvdflick.net/
https://cdburnerxp.se/
https://www.winxdvd.com/dvd-author/
https://alternativeto.net/software/nero-burning-rom/?p=8
===== 5-1-2021 Articles and websites Links =====
Our test virtual meeting, last Tuesday, using Webex after our regular Zoom meeting, went well. We will have another short one, after the Tuesday Zoom meeting ends at 3pm. Barring columns of smoke, the second CB virtual meeting in May will be on Webex.
Leo is smarter than I am. John offers these info links for your consideration:
Should I Disconnect My Backup Drive When I'm Not Backing Up? Some people disconnect their backup drive when not backing up because they fear ransomware. I explain why that's a Really Bad Idea. https://askleo.com/18248
How Long Should a Password Be? For years, the standard practice has been to assume that eight-character passwords made up of sufficiently random characters was enough. Not anymore. Not even close. https://askleo.com/4844
Computer Slow? You Might Not Have Enough RAM for Windows Windows loves RAM. Not having enough can, over time, cause your computer to slow down. https://askleo.com/125909
Do I Need a Firewall for My Home Network? A firewall is a critical component of keeping your machine safe on the internet. There are two basic types, but which is right for you? https://askleo.com/1911
How Do I Remove Malware from Windows 10? Trying to remove malware? I'll walk you through the steps and options, from simple to hard, including the only approach that's guaranteed to work. https://askleo.com/3811
Online Shopping: Just How Safe Is It? Online shopping is ubiquitous, and yet some avoid it completely. Why are some people afraid to shop online when it's arguably safer than offline?
https://askleo.com/2475
How Do I Make Sure Windows 10 is Up to Date? The best way to make sure Windows 10 is up to date is to let it do the job for you automatically. I'll discuss why you want it to and what options you have. https://askleo.com/21710
When Your Slow Internet Connection Makes Your Computer Look Slow Is the internet slow, or is it your computer? How to tell and what to do. https://askleo.com/126435
Are You Asking Too Much of Your Computer? It's very common for our usage and expectations of our computers to grow over time. Unfortunately, that means we'll eventually run into its limitations. https://askleo.com/126032
Resist Those Dancing Bunnies Malware authors often make fantastic promises to get people to bypass their security software. It's important to remain skeptical, vigilant, and attentive. https://askleo.com/16432
Fix Printer Problems with an Uninstall and Reinstall in Windows 10 "Reformat and reinstall" just your printer, and you may find that things start working again. It's a safe and easy first step to fixing printer issues. https://askleo.com/126249
How Do I Force Windows to Reinstall a Driver? Sometimes fixing a pesky problem with a hardware device is as simple as forcing Windows to reinstall a driver. I'll show you how. https://askleo.com/4926
What Security Software Do You Recommend? Basic Protection in Four Steps My recommendations for specific security software and techniques to keep your computer, and yourself, safe. https://askleo.com/3517
Why Don't You Back Up Your Computer? Backups are one way you can protect yourself from everything from hardware failure to virus infections. So why don't you back up? https://askleo.com/3388
Email Headers Revealed and How They Might Help You Email headers are geeky magic, but understanding a few can help identify spam and diagnose some email problems. https://askleo.com/126191
Avoiding or Fixing Software Rot in Windows 10 Software rot is the slow degradation of your computer's performance for no apparent reason. I'll review why it happens, how to prevent, and how to recover. https://askleo.com/126177
My Solution to Social Media Overload I'm taking a break from Facebook. Here I discuss why, what Facebook brings to the table, and what alternatives I'm using instead. https://askleo.com/126616
What Can I Disable in Task Manager's Startup List? Task Manager shows many of the items that run automatically when you start your machine. What you need and what you don't depends on many factors. https://askleo.com/2633
How to Remove PUPs and Other Unexpected Things From Your Computer Casually installing one download may result in several other things being installed. I'll review the steps to remove these pesky, problematic, painful, Potentially Unwanted Programs, or PUPs. https://askleo.com/14152
Yes, Your Security Software Might Slow Down Your Computer - What to Do About It Security tools are asked to do an important, sometimes resource-hungry task. Here's how to mitigate their impact on your ability to use your computer. https://askleo.com/126295
Could OneDrive Get Hacked? What You Really Need to Worry About Yes, OneDrive could get hacked. So can any online service. The real question is, how likely is it, and are there other things we should be worrying about instead? https://askleo.com/126464
===== 4-23-2021 Articles and websites Links =====
https://www.aarp.org/research/topics/technology/info-2021/2021-technology-trends-older-americans.html
Personal Tech and the Pandemic: Older Adults Are Upgrading for a Better Online Experience by Brittne Kakulla, AARP Research, April 2021 The pandemic might be the bridge to close the generational tech divide as older adults flocked to adopt technology in 2020. Usage increased across the technological spectrum, according to AARP’s annual technology survey. Older adults are streaming movies and TV shows, video-chatting with loved ones and colleagues, and buying new smart devices, such as TVs, phones, watches, tablets, home assistants, and home security.
With social distancing restricting social interaction, adults 50 and older not only snatched up new devices, but also were more likely to use them daily. They purchased more smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, and wearables, and audio devices such as earbuds and headsets.
Barriers weren’t completely eliminated, however. Older adults cited cost, knowledge gaps, and privacy concerns as top reasons they may be hesitant to adopt technology. More than half (54%) admitted they want a better grasp of the devices they’ve acquired, while more than one in three (37%) said they lacked confidence when using the technology that has otherwise become so much more prevalent in their lives.<snip>
2021 Tech Trends and the 50+: Top 10 Biggest Trends (PDF) https://www.aarp.org/content/dam/aarp/research/surveys_statistics/technology/2021/2021-tech-trends-older-adults.doi.10.26419-2Fres.00420.001.pdf
https://fossbytes.com/top-best-free-data-recovery-software-2016/
https://fossbytes.com/buying-used-macbook/
https://fossbytes.com/buying-used-second-hand-laptop/
https://www.windowscentral.com/how-use-system-restore-windows-10
https://www.pcworld.com/article/3393238/time-saving-windows-10-tips-optimizations.amp.html
Windows 10 tips and tricks that help you get stuff done faster <snip> Shut it all down If you’re opening programs and files willy-nilly, you may find yourself drowning in open windows. Fear not: Windows provides several ways to clear the deck near-instantly, returning your focus to the task at hand.
My favorite? Click and hold the title bar at the top of the program you’re working in, then give it a vigorous shake. All other windows will be minimized to the taskbar. Pressing Windows + Home accomplishes the same thing. Alternatively, if you want to minimize everything and reveal your desktop, simply press Windows + D on your keyboard, or click the barely-visible sliver all the way to the very right of your taskbar, beyond the system tray and notification center. Poof.
<snip>
Supercharge the Send To menu
Staying organized is key to working efficiently. You can use the right-click context menu’s Send To option to keep your virtual house clean, though doing so will require altering the menu to fit your particular needs. Doing so is fast, and well worth the trouble.
Start by creating shortcuts to your most-used folders. (I like creating a shortcut for my PCWorld work folder, for instance.) Once that’s done, open File Explorer and type shell:sendto into the location bar at the top. File Explorer will reveal a list of the options that appear in the Send To menu. Simply drag your previously created shortcuts into this folder. Next time you right-click an item and summon the Send To menu, those folders will be listed as options. Happy sorting!
An internal memo aimed at explaining Facebook's comms strategy regarding the recent data leak was accidentally sent to Belgian journalist Pieterjan Van Leemputten on Monday. The note said that Facebook believes that its best long-term strategy is to frame expected "scraping incidents" as a "broad industry issue" and to "normalize" them.
https://www.cnet.com/news/facebook-hopes-to-normalize-idea-of-data-scraping-leaks-says-leaked-internal-memo/
"A tool lets a user see which email address is linked to a Facebook account even if the Facebook user didn't publicly advertise their address,"
https://www.vice.com/en/article/bvz8pz/tool-finds-facebook-email-addresses
https://www.cnet.com/how-to/windows-10-tips-how-to-take-screenshots-find-the-secret-start-menu-and-more/
Windows 10 tips: How to take screenshots, find the secret Start menu and more Consider this your guide to becoming a Windows 10 master, with hacks for shutting down background apps and saving your battery.
Alison DeNisco Rayome April 3, 2021
These Windows 10 tips and tricks can save you time and effort.
Whether you've been using Windows 10 for years or have only recently upgraded, there are plenty of new and old tips, tricks and hidden features to learn that will make using your laptop every day faster and smoother. Learning to be quicker and more productive on your laptop may be especially appealing with so many of us still working from home due to the pandemic, or just spending more time on our laptops in general. Finding the secret Start menu and saving battery power with a simple trick are great ways to get more out of your machine.
Microsoft doesn't typically publicize its hidden features the way Apple does, which can make it more difficult to know how to get the most out of the machine you use day in and day out.
Even learning how to upgrade to Windows 10 for free can be tricky. You'll want to do this ASAP, by the way, since support for Windows 7 ended last year. So no matter which Microsoft, Dell, HP or other Windows 10 rig you have, these clever tips will help you stay organized and get more done. Plus, here's everything you need to know about the upcoming spring 2021 update, the most recent Windows 10 October 2020 update, how to use the three best new Windows 10 features and how to troubleshoot any Windows 10 problems.<snip>
https://www.pcworld.com/article/3604656/how-to-clean-up-your-gmail-inbox-by-quickly-deleting-old-email.amp.html
How to clean up your Gmail inbox by quickly deleting old email Cleaning your inbox can help your organize your life as well as save you money that you'd have to pay to Google for extra storage.
By Mark Hachman Senior Editor, PCWorld FEB 11, 2021
If you have too much email in your Gmail account, it may finally be time to clean it out. This is not simply to reach the Zen-like nirvana of “inbox zero,” but to address a looming threat: As of June 1, 2021, Google will change its storage policy. By default, Gmail users receive 15GB of storage, shared across Gmail, Drive, and Photos. Some data, like Photos, is currently exempted—but that goes away in June. If your total data exceeds your free allotment, you’ll either have to delete data, pay Google for more storage, or risk losing whatever “extra” data Google chooses to delete.
Don’t let that happen! Here are some tactics for deleting lots of email, pronto.
<snip>
https://www.cnet.com/news/chromebooks-are-now-my-go-to-recommendation-for-most-people-heres-why/
Why Chromebooks are now my go-to recommendation for most laptop buyers
Commentary: They do almost everything you want, but cost less.
Joshua Goldman March 22, 2021
The past year introduced a lot more people to the world of Chromebooks as everyone snatched them up for remote learning and at-home work during the pandemic. It's likely because of this that I spent more time fielding questions about them from family and friends than I have since they first launched in 2011.
Most of my Chromebook conversations are with people buying them for kids. But these Q&A sessions regularly end with them asking "Should I buy one for myself?" And the stock answer is usually, "It depends on your needs." But after just a little digging, many people realize they simply don't need to do any more than what can be done on a Chromebook. <snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/8-tips-for-better-video-conference-calls
8 Tips for Better Video Conference Calls If you're stuck at home because of COVID-19, you can still get work done by collaborating over video. Here's how to maximize your video chat time.
By Jason Cohen December 21, 2020
COVID-19 has upended how we work in 2020. Those of us who are lucky enough to have avoided layoffs and furloughs this year are now working from home and dialing into Zoom or Google Meet calls rather than crowding around a conference table.
Working from home might sound great to some, but having to do all your own IT work can be a hassle. After all, the last thing you want is to have a technical issue right when it’s time to dial in; there’s no one to help troubleshoot your connection, and it can really get in the way of a productive afternoon. Make sure everything is right before the call begins. Here's how to prepare for video conference calls from home, or wherever you might be working from.<snip>
Regardless of what Chromebook you buy, before you buy it you should find out the device's Auto Update Expiration date or AUE. Currently, non-Google hardware is only supported for so long before it stops receiving Chrome OS and browser updates, including those for security. For models released in 2020, the date is roughly 7 to 8 years from the initial release of the device, but that's not always the case. Google maintains a list of AUE dates for all models and you should check it before you buy a Chromebook, new or used.
https://www.cnet.com/news/how-to-check-a-chromebook-auto-update-expiration-before-you-buy/
https://support.google.com/chrome/a/answer/6220366?
https://forum.manjaro.org/t/list-of-distributions-for-32-bit-x86-hardware-wiki/32431
Since Manjaro32 got discontinued many people ask what next and give numerous recommedations for distros repeating themselves on and on - I’m creating a central topic to give reference for distros which still support 32 Bit x86 hardware.
===== 4-16-2021 Articles and websites Links =====
The CB Zoom Mtg topic was Voice commands for computing tasks.
Personal Tech 5 Ways to Tap Into Your Smartphone’s Audio Powers https://www.nytimes.com/2021/04/07/technology/personaltech/smartphone-voice-tools-tips.html
5 Ways to Tap Into Your Smartphone’s Audio Powers A virtual assistant is just one tool that lets you use your voice to share your thoughts, capture a moment or just get things done.
Tech Tip By J. D. Biersdorfer April 7, 2021 It has been a decade since Apple integrated Siri right into its iPhone software and mainstreamed the voice-activated assistant. But the assistant is just one of the voice-powered tools in your smartphone’s ever-growing audio toolbox. Your device can also be a digital recorder, a dictation machine, a podcast production studio and more.
Here’s how to get things done with more talking and less typing.
1. Get More From Your Assistant
2. Make a Voice Memo
3. Type by Talking
4. Send an Audio Message
5. Record a Podcast or Song
and then...lots of discussion on lots of stuff:
This time-worn advice still holds true for the basic concept of helping one another.
https://lifehacker.com/how-to-fix-your-relatives-terrible-computer-5413223
Drop your bags, fix a drink, and grab the Windows CD—it's time for the holiday ritual of fixing up your relatives' computer. Here are some tips and downloads to keep handy while you're cursing all the auto-starting crapware.
Lifehacker originally posted this guide around Thanksgiving of 2009; we've updated everything for your 2010 needs, considering that slow, malware-prone, never-backed-up computers are as timeless as turkey.<snip>
Mentioned at last week's CB Zoom Mtg....
https://pine64.com/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pine64
Pine64 is an organization which designs, manufactures and sells single-board computers, notebook computers and smartphones.
Additional OTA TV info sites:
nocable.org
TVTV.US
tvpassport.com
rabbitears.info
Podcasts were discussed...
https://twit.tv/shows/security-now
SECURITY NOW Hosted by Steve Gibson, Leo Laporte
The man who coined the term spyware and created the first anti-spyware program, creator of Spinrite and ShieldsUP, discusses the hot topics in security today.
https://latenightlinux.com/about/
Late Night Linux is a podcast that takes a look at what’s happening with Linux and the wider tech industry. Every week, Joe, Félim, Graham and Will discuss the latest news and releases, and the broader issues and trends in the world of free and open source software.
https://www.macobserver.com/show/mac-geek-gab/
Mac Geek Gab Podcast Dave Hamilton and John F. Braun come together weekly to answer your questions and discuss things of interest to Apple and Mac geeks, yet present them in a way that's both entertaining and informative for the average listener.
https://www.nationalsecuritylawpodcast.com/
https://www.recordedfuture.com/resources/podcast/
Recorded Future takes you inside the world of cyber threat intelligence. We’re sharing stories from the trenches and the operations floor as well as giving you the skinny on established and emerging adversaries.
We also talk current events, technical tradecraft, and offer up insights on the big picture issues in our industry. Join the Recorded Future team, special guests, and our partners from the CyberWire to learn everything you want to know (and maybe some things you’d rather not know) about the world of cyber threat intelligence.
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-cyberlaw-podcast/id836535581
A weekly podcast on cybersecurity and privacy from the cyberlaw practice at Steptoe and Johnson. Featuring Stewart Baker and Michael Vatis.
https://thecyberwire.com/podcasts/daily-podcast
The daily cybersecurity news and analysis industry leaders depend on. Published each weekday, the program also included interviews with a wide spectrum of experts from industry, academia, and research organizations
https://www.inteltechniques.com/podcast.html
The PRIVACY, SECURITY, & OSINT Show This weekly podcast presents ideas to help you become digitally invisible, stay secure from cyber threats, and make you a better online investigator. If you are just starting with us, please consider episodes 174-178.
https://www.npr.org/podcasts/510053/on-point
On Point From WBUR Let's make sense of the world – together. From the economy and health care to politics and the environment – and so much more – On Point host Meghna Chakrabarti speaks with newsmakers and real people about the issues that matter most. On Point is produced by WBUR for NPR.
https://www.billnyepodcast.com/
About the Show On Science Rules!, Bill Nye tackles your curliest questions on just about anything in the universe. Give him a call! Perhaps you’ve wondered: Should I stop eating cheeseburgers to combat climate change? How often should I really be washing my pillowcase? Can I harvest energy from all those static-electricity shocks I get in the winter? With a little help from his co-host Corey S. Powell, field experts, and special celebrity guests, Bill will answer those questions and convince you that science rules!
https://www.sciencefriday.com/science-friday-podcasts/
Science Friday Covering the outer reaches of space to the tiniest microbes in our bodies, Science Friday is the trusted source for news about science, technology, and other cool stuff. Host Ira Flatow mixes it up by featuring people in the know and those who want to be. Science Friday frequently features listeners that call in with their most riveting science questions.
https://www.osterholmupdate.com/
About the Podcast The Osterholm Update: COVID-19 podcast began in March 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic began to reach all parts of the globe. Each episode features discussion and analysis on the latest COVID-19 developments by Dr. Michael Osterholm and host Chris Dall.
https://www.nature.com/nature/articles?type=nature-podcast
About Nature Portfolio Nature Portfolio is here to serve the research community by publishing its most significant discoveries—findings that advance knowledge and address some of the greatest challenges that we face as a society today. Our journals publish not only primary research but also reviews, critical comment, news and analysis.
https://www.cbsnews.com/feature/intelligence-matters-podcast-with-michael-morell/
"Intelligence Matters" Podcast With Michael Morell
https://www.preposterousuniverse.com/podcast/
Sean Carroll's Mindscape Podcast Sean Carroll hosts conversations with the world's most interesting thinkers. Science, society, philosophy, culture, arts, and ideas.
https://underunderstood.com/podcast/
UNDERUNDERSTOOD The internet doesn't have all the answers. But that doesn't mean we can't find them.
podcast players, to listen to all that....
https://downcastapp.com/
A very cool podcast player for iOS, Mac, Apple Watch, and CarPlay.
https://www.pocketcasts.com/podcast-player/
PocketCasts Feature packed All the features you need in a podcasting app without any of the bloat. Pick up exactly where you left off in your favorite podcast. Find brand new ones to fall in love with. Podcast listening turned up to 11.
websites recommended by CBuddies....
https://www.atlasobscura.com/
The definitive guide to the world’s hidden wonders.
Introducing the Atlas Obscura Podcast A short, daily celebration of the world's strange and wondrous places.
https://www.grc.com/intro.htm
Gibson Research Corporation Proudly Announces hard drive data recovery software The industry's #1 hard drive data recovery software is NOW COMPATIBLE with NTFS, FAT, Linux, and ALL OTHER file systems!
See the first podcast in the list above.
https://mplsparking.com/mpls-parking-app/
If you use this app for Mpls parking meters...BE SURE TO CHANGE YOUR PASSWORD! [says CBuddy Chris]
https://www.cozi.com/
The surprisingly simple family organizer. Sign up - Cozi is free! The family calendar has a new job this school year. Trust Cozi to manage it all. With Cozi, you can: Keep appointments and activities all in one place Track school events and the virtual class schedule Manage a shared grocery list Get the whole family to chip in on chores
https://bitwarden.com/
The Most Trusted Open Source Password Manager for Business. Bitwarden offers the easiest and safest way for teams and individuals to store and share sensitive data from any device. Free Organization -- $0/month includes 2 users. Start storing and sharing secure passwords with a two-person organization. The core features and sharing are 100% free. Upgrade anytime.
E-cards and printing cards are popular with CBuddies....
https://www.facebook.com/HappyBirthdayCardsAndWishes
one of many, when you search for "cards on facebook"
https://www.jacquielawson.com/
Welcome to jacquielawson.com – the classiest ecards on the web! Back in the year 2000, Jacquie Lawson, an English artist living in the picturesque village of Lurgashall in Southern England, created an animated Christmas card featuring her dog and cats, and her 15th-century cottage, and sent it to a few friends for their amusement. Those friends sent the ecard to others, and within weeks Jacquie was inundated with requests from all over the world to design more. In February 2002 she teamed up with a few friends and family members to create jacquielawson.com.
https://www.americangreetings.com/cards/ecards/_/N-1x91zju
Join now for exclusive, unlimited access to online cards that make it easy to connect and remember every occasion! START FREE TRIAL!
https://blingee.com/
Create cool pictures! Add Glitter, Graphics, and Comments to personalize your images, then share with your friends! It's all Free! Make a Blingee now!
===== 4-9-2021 Articles and websites Links =====
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/iphone-tips-tricks-ios-secret-expert
Apple iOS is so full of features that no review or story can cover it all. But we compiled our favorite tips, tricks, and secrets about iOS and the iPhone. Things that will make your day—and your life—more productive, and put you on the path to being an iPhone expert.<Snip>
Personal Tech Five Tech Commandments to a Safer Digital Life
We can survive a world of ever-changing tech if we remember these principles.
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/03/24/technology/personaltech/online-data-privacy.html
tech fix by Brian X. Chen March 24, 2021
Tech is always changing, and so is the way we use it. That means we are always finding new ways to let our guard down for bad actors to snoop on our data.
Thou Shalt Not Use Weak Passwords
Use Multifactor Authentication
Thou Shalt Not Overshare
Thou Shalt Not Share Data About Friends
Just to be safe, make sure the photo location feature is off by default:
Remember to Stay Skeptical
All security experts agreed on one rule of thumb: Trust no one.
Personal Tech If You Care About Privacy, It's Time to Try a New Web Browser https://www.nytimes.com/2021/03/31/technology/personaltech/online-privacy-private-browsers.html
If You Care About Privacy, It's Time to Try a New Web Browser A new crop of internet browsers from Brave, DuckDuckGo and others offer stronger privacy protections than what you might be used to.
tech fix by Brian X. Chen March 31, 2021
Most of us use web browsers out of habit.
If you surf the web with Microsoft Edge, that may be because you use Windows. If you use Safari, that's probably because you are an Apple customer. If you are a Chrome user, that could be because you have a Google phone or laptop, or you downloaded the Google browser on your personal device after using it on computers at school or work.
In other words, we turn to the browsers that are readily available and familiar. It's easy to fall into browser inertia because these apps are all fast, capable and serve the same purpose: visiting a website.
https://www.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/mobile/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Firefox_Focus
Firefox Focus is a free and open-source privacy-focused browser from Mozilla, available for Android and iOS smartphones and tablets.
It can run on a windows computer if you use an emulator:
https://techiespad.com/firefox-focus-for-pc/
----------------------------------
Recommended by buddy Larry!
www.techsupportall.com
In the news; Best list; How tos; Tips; Malware removal guides; computer security; Latest deals; Recent questions; Latest articles Copyright © 2021 Free Tech help
www.adwareremovaltool.org
This tool is specially designed for the threats who hijack your browser and show you unwanted ads. These hijackers make you more vulnerable to malware and adware. Adware Removal tool can easily clean these hijackers from Internet Explorer, Firefox and chrome browsers. This is a free to use tool.
adw Cleaner
www.bleepingcomputer.com/download/adwcleaner/
www.freecarrierlookup.com/
FREE CARRIER LOOKUP SERVICE Enter a phone number and we'll return the carrier name and whether the number is wireless or landline. We have the latest data so our results are highly up-to-date and accurate for most countries. We also return the email-to-SMS and email-to-MMS gateway addresses for USA and Canadian* phone numbers.
-----------------------------
Book by senior computer buddy Dale!
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/19058431-freighter-odyssey---around-the-world-in-130-days
https://web.archive.org/web/20140206025427/https://www.stenseth.org/adventure/freighterodyssey.html
http://dalestenseth.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------
www.Calculatorsoup.com
Calculator Soup is a free online calculator. Here you will find free loan, mortgage, time value of money, math, algebra, trigonometry, fractions, physics, statistics, time & date and conversions calculators. Many of the calculator pages show work or equations that help you understand the calculations. If you don't find what you need, we are always happy to consider requests for new calculators or additional features and information.
------------------------------------
Recommended by buddy Anna:
https://www.facebook.com/514840712056653/posts/1603858026488244/?d=n
https://www.businessinsider.com/was-your-phone-number-leaked-facebook-breach-2021-4
HOME TECH
How to find out in 10 seconds whether your phone number was leaked in the giant Facebook breach that exposed the data of 533 million users Isobel Asher Hamilton Apr 6, 2021 The data of 533 million Facebook users was leaked to a hacker forum last week.
The leak included users' phone numbers.
The website "Have I been pwned" added an update so people can see if their number was leaked.
https://haveibeenpwned.com/
The online security website "Have I been pwned" has launched a new feature to let users quickly find out whether their phone number was leaked in a giant Facebook data breach.
The personal data of 533 million Facebook users was stolen and placed on a hacking forum on Saturday. The data included their names, email addresses, and phone numbers.
"Have I been pwned" has for a long time allowed people to look up whether their emails or passwords were exposed in past data breaches. But the Facebook breach prompted Troy Hunt, the security analyst who runs the site, to let people search phone numbers too, because the leaked data set contained far more phone numbers than email addresses.
Hunt said in a blog post he had seen "unprecedented" numbers of people using "Have I been pwned" since the Facebook breach became public. He said the new update would apply only to phone numbers leaked in the Facebook breach and not earlier leaks.
To search for a phone number, users will have to use the international format — i.e. with their country and area codes, so a US user would have to add +1 and their area code before their number.
======== 4-2-2021 Articles and websites Links ======
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-stop-facebook-from-spying-on-your-internet-activity
Home How-To Digital Life Social Media How to Stop Facebook From Spying on Your Internet Activity The Off-Facebook Activity tool reveals which websites send information about your online activities to the social network, while Facebook's Privacy Checkup tool helps you review and tighten your privacy.
By Lance Whitney March 31, 2021
Facebook is notorious for tracking your online behavior—both on and off the platform—in order to personalize your experience and send you targeted ads. Fortunately, the social network also offers you tools to review and modify your privacy settings. The Off-Facebook Activity tool tells you what Facebook knows about your online activities when you leave the site. And the Privacy Checkup tool allows you to determine how much or how little information you reveal, and to whom. Here's how to use both features.
https://www.forbes.com/sites/kateoflahertyuk/2021/03/26/ios-1442-new-update-now-warning-issued-to-all-iphone-users
Mar 26, 2021,01:34pm EST|627,818 views
iOS 14.4.2: Apple Releases Emergency iPhone Security Update Kate O'Flaherty, Senior Contributor I am a cybersecurity journalist.
Apple has just issued iOS 14.4.2, an urgent security fix for a vulnerability that has already been exploited by attackers.
<snip>
https://www.forbes.com/sites/zakdoffman/2021/03/20/stop-using-google-chrome-on-apple-iphone-12-pro-max-ipad-and-macbook-pro
Why You Suddenly Need To Stop Using Google Chrome
Zak Doffman, Contributor, Cybersecurity Mar 20, 2021
I write about security and surveillance.
If you’re among the billions of people using Chrome, then Google’s stark new data harvesting disclosures should come as a nasty surprise. Worse, a new Chrome revelation, one that hasn’t yet made headlines but which is detailed below, should serve as an even more serious warning. Here’s what you need to do now.
======== 3-26-2021 Articles and websites Links ======
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/12-simple-things-you-can-do-to-be-more-secure-online
12 Simple Things You Can Do to Be More Secure Online Follow these 12 easy tips to protect the security of your devices, your data, your internet traffic, and your identity.
By Neil J. Rubenking & Jill Duffy Updated March 19, 2021
9. Clear Your Cache
Never underestimate how much your browser's cache knows about you. Saved cookies, saved searches, and Web history could point to home address, family information, and other personal data.
To better protect that information that may be lurking in your Web history, be sure to delete browser cookies and clear your browser history on a regular basis. It's easy. In Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Internet Explorer, or Opera, simply press Ctrl+Shift+Del to bring up a dialog that lets you choose which elements of browser data you want to clear.
Deleting cookies may cause trouble for some websites—you may lose any personalization you've applied. Most browsers let you list favorite websites whose cookies shouldn't be tossed.
10. Turn Off the 'Save Password' Feature in Browsers Speaking of what your browser may know about you, most browsers include a built-in password management solution. We at PCMag don't recommend them, however. We feel it's best to leave password protection to the experts who make password managers.
Think about this. When you install a third-party password manager, it typically offers to import your password from the browser's storage. If the password manager can do that, you can be sure some malicious software can do the same. In addition, keeping your passwords in a single, central password manager lets you use them across all browsers and devices.
Another Reason Your Computer Might Be Slow: Prevention, Presence, or Removal of Malware. Malware can impact your computers performance before it arrives, once infected, and even after removal.
https://askleo.com/125650
Five Reasons Ransomware Will Be Around for a Long Time There are several reasons ransomware will be a scourge for some time to come. Most boil down to, well, us.
https://askleo.com/125655
How Do I Find Someone's Email Address?
It can be extremely difficult to find the email address of someone you want to contact. To begin with, they must want to be found.
https://askleo.com/2565
Stop Spreading Manure
Believing and spreading manure -- lies, falsehoods, and misleading implications -- makes you look bad, and makes the internet a dumber place.
https://askleo.com/9419
Do I Need All These Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables?
Assorted redistributables and shared libraries are installed on your PC by programs that need them. Removing them, while tempting, is fairly risky.
https://askleo.com/4854
Free Microsoft Office in Windows 10? Sort Of Microsoft Office appears in every new install of Windows 10, but is it really "included"? Yes and no.
https://askleo.com/76224
Just What Is Common Sense?
'Common sense' is frequently suggested, often missing, and rarely defined. I'll take a look at some of what I feel are the characteristics of common sense.
https://askleo.com/16473
"Do You Want to Scan and Fix" a Removable Drive?
The message "Do you want to scan and fix" means Windows found an error on a recently-attached drive. What you do next depends on how disastrous data loss might be.
https://askleo.com/125329
Can I Delete Setup Files I've Downloaded?
You can safely delete setup files after you've set up the corresponding software, but only if you do something important first.
https://askleo.com/17476
How to Avoid Ransomware -- the 3 Things You're Hopefully Already Doing Avoid ransomware the same way you avoid any malware. A full backup will save you not only from ransomware, but from a host of other problems as well.
https://askleo.com/6232
https://askleo.com/whats-the-difference-between-chkdsk-f-and-chkdsk-r
Chkdsk is a Windows utility that diagnoses and possibly repairs disk issues. It has several options, but the two most commonly cited are /F, for fix, and /R, for repair.
Wait.
Aren’t “fix” and “repair” just two words for the same thing?
Yes. But when it comes to CHKDSK, no.
======== 3-19-2021 Articles and websites Links ======
No Signal: What it Means and What to Check "No Signal" is a message coming from your display device (not from your computer), indicating it has nothing to display. I'll review possible causes.
https://askleo.com/4824
My Shift Key is Stuck. How Do I Unstick It? Windows has accessibility features that change the behavior of your keyboard. They're easy to turn on by mistake.
https://askleo.com/1855
How Do Outlook and Outlook.com Relate? Microsoft continues to confuse us with product names. I'll clarify the difference between Outlook and Outlook.com, and help you understand which you want.
https://askleo.com/1832
How Do I Get Rid of Gmail Tabs? How to Regain Control and Find the Email Gmail Might Be Hiding From You Gmail introduced a tabbed interface to automatically categorized email messages. Since their categorization often misses the mark, let's turn it off.
https://askleo.com/8209
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/printer-wont-connect-to-wi-fi-try-these-fixes?
Printer Won't Connect to Wi-Fi? Try These Fixes Do you have a printer that won't connect to the internet? Here's how to get your wireless printer to print.
By Whitson Gordon March 17, 2021
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/no-kindle-needed-10-free-ebook-reader-apps-for-your-phone-or-tablet
No Kindle Needed: 10 Free eBook Reader Apps for Your Phone or Tablet You don’t need an Amazon Kindle device to read ebooks. These apps support a variety of eBook formats and can help you turn your PC, tablet, or phone into an eReader.
By Lance Whitney July 7, 2020
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-put-free-ebooks-on-your-amazon-kindle
How to Put Free Ebooks on Your Amazon Kindle Your Kindle isn't just restricted to reading books from Amazon. Here's how to convert various other ebooks formats for the Kindle, and where to get free ebooks.
By Sascha Segan & Chloe Albanesius Updated March 10, 2021
======== 3-12-2021 Articles and websites Links ======
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/set-up-use-network-drive-pc-storage
Running Out of Room on Your PC? How to Set Up and Use a Network Drive Turn an external hard drive into a network drive to access your files, even when your computer is turned off.
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-fix-the-most-annoying-things-in-windows-10
How to Fix the Most Annoying Things in Windows 10 Windows 10 is great, but it has its issues, from unpredictable reboots to aggravating notifications. Here's how to fix some of the more irritating quirks with Microsoft's latest operating system.
https://www.pcmag.com/news/charging-your-phone-overnight-battery-myths-debunked
Charging Your Phone Overnight: Battery Myths Debunked Is it bad—or even dangerous—to leave a smartphone plugged in as you sleep? The answer is complicated, as are many things regarding batteries.
======== 3-5-2021 Articles and websites Links ======
How to Download YouTube Videos
https://www.pcmag.com/news/how-to-download-youtube-videos
http://lifehacker.com/5410941/protect-yourself-from-drive+by-browser-malware-attacks
How to protect yourself from drive-by malware that can infect your computer by simply visiting the wrong web site.
http://lifehacker.com/5412886/61-free-apps-were-most-thankful-for
61 Free Desktop Applications, Webapps, and Tools We're Most Thankful For
http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2343788,00.asp
Your Computing Life, on a USB Thumb Drive
03.25.09 by Eric Griffith
You can put an entire bootable operating system on a USB flash drive or customize your own collection of apps to run on any PC, anywhere. Here's how.
http://ask-leo.com/C3962
How are files "corrupted" and why do they go "missing"?
http://ask-leo.com/why_does_my_laptop_hard_drive_keep_failing.html
Summary: Laptop hard drives are made to be fairly rugged but there are limits. Here are some things to help make your laptop hard disk last as long as possible.
http://www.instructables.com/id/Repair-a-Broken-Ethernet-Plug/
We've all been there at some point: You've got a perfectly functional Ethernet cord that somewhere along the line had its tab broken off. Don't buy a new one or re-terminate the cord. Fix it with zip ties.
http://www.internetfixes.com/question_and_answer/IF00071.htm
Ads Masquerading As Security Warnings!
http://ask-leo.com/C3936
Can clicking "Cancel" still mean "Accept" when I get a popup?
http://ask-leo.com/C3938
Is it safe to just turn off an external USB drive without "safely removing" first?
How Do I Bypass Keyloggers? The Guaranteed Way to Avoid Having Your Keystrokes Maliciously Recorded I hear about techniques to bypass keyloggers often. The problem is, keyloggers can log much more than keystrokes. There's really only one solution: avoid them in the first place.
https://askleo.com/3294
Has My Computer Been Hacked? A List of Clues and Steps to Take When you see the list of possible hacking signs, it's easy to jump to the conclusion your computer has been hacked. It's usually not the case. Regardless, prevention is always easier than recovery from an actual hack.
https://askleo.com/4807
Why Do I Get Spam Not Addressed to Me? How Spammers Do It, and What Steps You Can Take Spammers use many techniques to slide their garbage into your inbox. BCCing you on messages is a common way.
https://askleo.com/11244
Should I Use FAT32 or NTFS on a Flash Drive? The Differences, and a Third Alternative File systems are commonly formatted as FAT32, NFTS, or exFAT. Which is best for your thumb drive?
https://askleo.com/124976
How Do I Run a Full Scan Using Windows Defender (aka Windows Security)? Five Clicks, and When to Do It Here's a step-by-step guide on running Windows Security to scan for malware.
https://askleo.com/124848
What Can People Tell from My IP Address?
People can tell very little from your IP address. For example, they cannot tell who or where you are. How much they can tell varies a great deal.
https://askleo.com/2293
Is There an Email Service that Doesn't Require a Phone Number? My Recommended Approach, and Alternatives There are legitimate reasons for not wanting to give your phone number to an email service. Let's look at alternatives.
https://askleo.com/124832
======== 2-26-2021 Articles and websites Links ======
Free Utility Recovers Deleted Photos
Everyone who owns a digital camera knows that terrible feeling when you have just deleted a photo you really wanted to keep. The good news is that the deleted photo can usually be recovered, provided you don't take any more photos. In fact, the process of recovery is very similar to recovering a file on your PC that you accidentally deleted. Indeed, quite often you can use the same program to undelete your photos that you use to undelete PC files. The free utility Recuva is an example of a program that will do both jobs. Freeware, all Windows versions, 3.0MB http://www.recuva.com/
What Extension is That? You know the story; someone sends you a file with a strange extension like .MOD and you can't open it. At this free site they will tell you what kind of file it is and, hopefully, what program you need to open it. There are several sites like this, including some that are more comprehensive in their coverage, but what I liked about this one is that it covers files from Mac and Linux as well as Windows, and has provision for user comments, some of which are more informative than the site information itself.
http://www.dotwhat.net
http://www.nirsoft.net/
NirSoft web site provides a unique collection of small and useful freeware utilities, all of them developed by Nir Sofer.
http://www.osalt.com/ Welcome to osalt.com open source alternative - your quick guide to the best open source software. Software Directory:
business communications databases
development education & science games
graphic applications internet & networking multimedia & audio
security & privacy system utilities web development
Find open source software alternatives to well-known commercial software Find alternatives for iTunes -> Amarok or Songbird Or check-out Photoshop, Autocad, Visio, Dreamweaver or Norton Ghost on your own.
Recently added commercial software: Citrix, ACDSee and iMovie.
Our mission is to provide easy access to high quality open source alternatives to well-known commercial products. And remember that open source software is also a freeware alternative. <snip>
Huge List of Free Open Source Apps
What's nice about this one is that it groups the 480+ programs by category.
Descriptions are given but unfortunately there are no indicators for popularity or quality.
http://mashable.com/2007/09/23/open-source/
[from 2007, many links still useful]
https://www.techsupportalert.com/how-to-secure-your-pc.php
updated 2020
Gizmo's Guide to Securing Your PC
New Free security suggestions from Gizmo's Freeware customized to your needs. 06/21/2009 - gizmo.richards In today's climate what is the best approach to avoiding getting your PC infected with malware? Gizmo lays out some simple steps you can take to ensure viruses, trojans, keyloggers and other nasties don't take control of your PC After spending years testing security products I've learned an important lesson. Don't get infected by malware.
In other words, put maximum effort into preventing infection rather than detecting and removing infection.
This statement may seem bland and unremarkable but there's more to it than you think. <snip>
https://askleo.com/my_flash_drive_suddenly_stopped_working_how_do_i_recover_the_data_on_it
#1: Flash Drives Wear Out
Apparently, many people still don’t realize this, but flash memory wears out the more you write to it.
How quickly it wears out will depend on the specific flash drive.
[Look at the comments after the article for tips Leo didn’t know about...]
https://www.pcmag.com/news/best-free-software
Home News
The Best Free Software of 2020
You want powerful software—but you don't have to pay for it. Everything you need to be productive on your PC is in this list of 85 programs, and it's all totally free.
By Eric Griffith, Updated July 2, 2020
It's a mobile world, but we have not fully abandoned the desktop. The real work (and a lot of the play) of computing requires a full personal computing system, and to get the most out of that, you need software.
Software can be expensive, but free programs have been a mainstay of the desktop experience for decades, and today's offerings are pretty powerful. Software developers can adopt an ad-based model, donation-ware to keep things afloat, or a shareware/freemium model that charges for extra features.
Something to always watch for: crapware installers. To make ends meet, many creators of otherwise great free software, or the services that offer the programs for download, bundle in things you don't want. Worse, the installation routine obfuscates the steps, so you provide the unwanted program tacit permission to be installed. For more about how to spot and avoid this problem, see How to Rid a New PC of Crapware, and check out the Uninstaller section below.
A pro tip: only download desktop software from the maker of the software directly. It's not foolproof—after all, developers want to eat, too—but it helps. That's why one of the criteria for inclusion here is that the program is available directly from its maker.
Other Criteria:
The software must be available directly from the developer/creator/original publisher.
The software should (typically) have a Windows-based download. However, we've included web-based apps that are as good, or better, than some downloadable programs.
If the software is on a tiered sales model, the free version cannot be trial-ware. It has to have at least a free-for-life option.
Preferably the program has had an update in the last year or two.
The program should have little or no advertising to support it. Some freemium software depends on showing ads to exist, however. We'll include some if they don't suck.
Software for productivity is what this list is about; there are plenty of other places to find free PC games.
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/5-great-alternatives-to-google-docs-you-should-consider/
HOME - PRODUCTIVITY
The 7 Best Google Docs Alternatives for Online Word Processing BY GAVIN PHILLIPS, PUBLISHED JAN 10, 2017 Google Docs has its shortcomings. Check out these excellent Google Docs alternatives when you need different features.
google-docs-alternatives
Online word processors come with many advantages. Your documents are accessible from anywhere, they're open to collaboration and sharing, and are easy to import and export.
When you think of online word processing, you immediately think of Google Docs. It is a great service with an extensive array of features, plus heaps of add-ons, too.
That said, you might not always want to use Google Docs. Thankfully, there are several excellent Google Docs alternatives that you can use for online document editing. Here are the best alternatives to Google Docs you can use right now.
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/best-microsoft-office-alternatives/
HOME, PRODUCTIVITY
The 7 Best Free Microsoft Office Alternatives BY JOEL LEE, PUBLISHED MAR 20, 2018 Microsoft Office is the king of office suites, but that doesn't mean it's the right one for you. Here are some other office suites you might like better!
ms-office-alternatives
Microsoft Office is the undisputed king of office suites, but that doesn't mean it's the right one for you. Indeed, we've covered several reasons to use Word, Excel, and PowerPoint Online instead of buying Microsoft Office, with the most important reason being price.
Other office suites exist, and you'd be surprised how well they compare to Microsoft Office, not to mention that many of them are completely free for personal use.
Before we explore these alternatives, you may want to check out our post on ways to use Microsoft Office without paying for it. But if it's the software itself that you dislike, or if those free methods aren't available to you, then read on!
======== 2-19-2021 Articles and websites Links ======
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_old-time_radio_programs
https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/columnist/saltzman/2016/03/25/webs-best-kept-secret-thousands-free-classic-radio-dramas/82204502/
https://www.oldtimeradiodownloads.com/
https://www.otr.com/
http://www.otr.net/
https://www.otrcat.com/
https://www.oldradioworld.com/
https://www.old-time.com/toc.html
https://archive.org/details/oldtimeradio
Jazz music streams, 25 Music/Sound Categories, 24kbps to 320kbps https://directory.shoutcast.com/
Many music styles, 80 jazz channels
<http://accuradio.com/jazz>
36 channels, various bitrates
<http://somafm.com>
Google finds a variety of streams
<http://directory.google.com/Top/Arts/Music/Sound_Files/MP3/Streaming/Stations>
Classical music streams, low bitrate
<http://magnatune.com/genres/classical/lofi_play>
http://www.digitaldarknet.net/thelist/
Mohawke's Best of the Best Free and Open Source Software Collection from Dark Artistry
:: Windows :: Macintosh :: Internet :: Operating Systems :: Games :: Web-Sites :: OSSWIN CD ::
https://www.nytimes.com/2008/10/02/technology/personaltech/02pogue-email.html
FROM THE DESK OF DAVID POGUE
Tech Tips for the Basic Computer User
By David Pogue Oct. 2, 2008
Last week, I wrote an entry on my blog that began like this:
"One of these days, I'm going to write a book called, 'The Basics.' It's going to be a compendium of the essential tech bits that you just assume everyone knows--but you're wrong.
(I'll never forget watching a book editor at a publishing house painstakingly drag across a word in a word processor to select it. After 10 minutes of this, I couldn't stand it. 'Why don't you just double-click the word?' She had no clue you could do that!)"
Many readers chimed in with other "basics" that they assumed every computer user knew--but soon discovered that what's common knowledge isn't the same as universal knowledge.
I'm sure the basics could fill a book, but here are a few to get you started. All of these are things that certain friends, family or coworkers, over the years, did *not* know. Clip, save and pass along to…well, you know who they are.
LOCKSS -- Lots Of Copies Keeps Stuff Safe
Two of my favorite utilities!
PrintFolder 1.3
Handy utility to print or save a list of files located in any folder. Right-click any folder in Windows Explorer and select "PrintFolder" in the popup menu. File size: 547 KB.
http://no-nonsense-software.com/freeware
Notepad++ is a text and source code editor for use with Microsoft Windows. It supports tabbed editing, which allows working with multiple open files in a single window. Notepad++ is distributed as free software. It has been downloaded over 28 million times....
https://notepad-plus-plus.org/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Notepad%2B%2B
======== 2-12-2021 Articles and websites Links ======
My Computer Does Nothing When Turned On; How Do I Fix It? Something to Look at, and Something to Listen To A computer that does nothing when you turn it on can be very difficult to diagnose. Spinning disks and blinking lights don't mean as much as you might think.
https://askleo.com/5189
How Do I Find Out Who Owns an Email Address? The Reasons It's Hard, and the Steps to Take Finding out who owns an email address is difficult at best. There's little you can do on your own, but if you're being harassed, law enforcement may help.
https://askleo.com/2404
Why Am I Not Getting the Email Newsletter I Signed Up For? Three Steps to Improve the Situation Over-aggressive spam filtering can cause email newsletters and other messages to fail to appear in your inbox. I'll look at why that is, and three steps you can take to improve the situation.
https://askleo.com/10979
How Long Should I Keep My Backups?
Having a regular backup system in place is critical -- but then what? I'll look at how long you might want to keep those backups, why, and how long I keep mine.
https://askleo.com/23473
An Overview of Gmail - Ask Leo! Live
An overview of the user interface and settings of one of the world's most popular email systems: Google Mail, aka Gmail.
https://askleo.com/125106
Why Is My Hard Drive Not Showing in Windows File Explorer?
Occasionally, attaching a drive to a computer will appear to work, except the drive's nowhere to be found. I'll walk through one common solution.
https://askleo.com/4434
What is Defragging and Do I Need It In Windows 10? What It Is, Why It Is, and What, if Anything, You Need Do Defragging rearranges the layout of files on your hard disk for faster access. Chances are you need do nothing at all.
https://askleo.com/2123
How Do I Test Backups? 3 Practical Steps to Make Sure the Safety Net Will Work It's a good idea to test backups before disaster strikes. Unfortunately, a complete test can be risky. I'll look at some alternatives.
https://askleo.com/14556
What If I Lose My Second Factor?
When you lose your second factor, there are two things to be concerned about: getting into your own account -- for which you should be prepared -- and someone else having access to your second factor -- which isn't as scary as it sounds.
https://askleo.com/124532
3 more Buddies Archive links from 2009 and a 2020 article on freeware
https://www.pcworld.com/article/152814/video_audio_downloads.html
15 Tools to Make Your PC a Multimedia Powerhouse
By Preston Gralla PCWorld | OCT 28, 2008
Your PC has become the greatest entertainment device ever created, but you wouldn't know that judging by the software that ships with the machine. Bundled media players, and related software for playing and managing audio and video, tend to be underwhelming at best.
We've assembled 15 of our favorite video and audio applications, all of which can handle just about any job you can throw at them. The vast majority of these downloads are completely free, and the others offer no-cost trials.
CD-ROM longevity
http://www.osta.org/technology/cdqa13.htm
53 page Doc on Understanding CDR and CDRW technology http://www.osta.org/technology/pdf/cdr_cdrw.pdf
https://www.thesimpledollar.com/save-money/30-essential-pieces-of-free-and-open-software-for-windows/
======== 2-5-2021 Articles and websites Links ======
Avoiding Windows 10 Update Restarts at Inopportune Times - Simple Solutions Avoiding Hacks Windows Update has been known to cause Windows restarts at inopportune times. I'll outline the approach I recommend to keep restarts in control.
https://askleo.com/124348
What Is SupportAssist and Should I Let It Run?
While I don't recommend third-party driver update tools, the tools provided by your computer's manufacturer are a different story.
https://askleo.com/124314
How Do You Delete Things from the Internet? - Why the Internet is Forever, Except When It's Not Realistically, it's impossible to delete things from the internet. Yet in an apparent contradiction in terms, if you happen to delete something in your control, you also can't get it back.
https://askleo.com/27274
What's the Difference Between an Email Account, an Email Address, an Email Program, and an Email Service?
Terminology around email can be confusing, and lead to incorrect answers to misstated questions. Here's some common and important terms.
https://askleo.com/4436
Eleven Tips for Troubleshooting Software...Steps you can take before calling tech support https://www.techsoup.org/support/articles-and-how-tos/eleven-tips-for-troubleshooting-software
Keeping Old Computers Alive...You may not need to get rid of that old computer yet https://www.techsoup.org/support/articles-and-how-tos/keeping-old-computers-alive
You Must Obey: The Unwritten Laws of Technology...By PC World Staff, with assistance from our Facebook friends and others https://www.pcworld.com/article/169388/informal_technology_laws.html
======== 1-29-2021 Articles and websites Links ======
This article lists keyboard shortcuts that you can use with Windows.
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/126449
Computer advice on the web
https://transcosmos.co.uk/blog/best-websites-to-learn-computer-troubleshooting-and-tech-support/
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/top-10-resources-for-computer-troubleshooting-advice-remote-help/
https://www.techsupportalert.com/content/12-best-places-internet-get-free-help-computer-problems.htm
https://www.lifehack.org/articles/technology/10-must-read-tech-sites-stay-updated.html
https://www.tomshardware.com/
https://blog.feedspot.com/microsoft_windows_blogs/
https://www.thewindowsclub.com/
tip from Buddy Larry E:
25 Google Maps Tricks You Need to Try. Google Maps is a Swiss Army Knife chock-full of hidden navigation, geospatial search, and customization tools. These tips and tricks will help you unlock your map app's full potential. Chandra Steele, January 25, 2021.
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/google-maps-tips-tricks?
mscigq@gmail.com send an email, request an invitation to a Friday zoom meeting
Minnetonka Seniors Computer Interest Group web site www.MSCIG.wordpress.com
https://www.pcmag.com/picks/the-best-phones
The Best Cheap Phone Plans for 2021 There are a lot of options beyond the big three phone carriers in the US. If you're looking to save money, these lesser-known low-cost cell phone plans might be the ticket. By Sascha Segan & Steven Winkelman Updated December 10, 2020
======= 1-22-2021 Articles and websites Links ======
Can I Recover Deleted Emails in Gmail I Deleted Three Years Ago? How to Side-step this Issue in the Future
https://askleo.com/124105
Why Might Wi-Fi Be Faster than Ethernet?
https://askleo.com/7637
Could Someone Reopen My Closed Email Account?
https://askleo.com/2991
Why Can't Online Services Tell Me My Password? (If They Can, There's Something Wrong)
https://askleo.com/13946
How to Protect Data on a Laptop - The 4 Most Important Steps
https://askleo.com/123964
"This Device Is Working Properly" - When Device Manager Lies, and What to Do Instead
https://askleo.com/123954
Are You Ready for Your Computer to be Stolen?
https://askleo.com/12635
Newspapers and other news online ------------------------ m.startribune.com https://www.twincities.com/ https://www.hometownsource.com/sun_sailor/community/stlouispark/
https://mndaily.com/
https://slpecho.com/
https://www.minnpost.com/
MinnPost is a nonprofit, nonpartisan enterprise whose mission is to provide high-quality journalism for people who care about Minnesota. We publish online at www.minnpost.com Monday through Friday with a limited edition on Saturday and a Sunday Review.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_newspapers_in_Minnesota
This list of newspapers in Minnesota shows newspapers that are published currently in the state of Minnesota in the United States of America.
http://mnnews.com/index.php/mn-newspaper-websites/
MN Newspaper Websites
https://www.loc.gov/rr/news/ftext.html
Full Text Newspaper & Journal Databases Available when at the Library of Congress:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_radio_stations_in_Minnesota
========== 1-15-2021 Articles and websites Links ========
What Is "about:blank" and How Do I Get Rid of It? Why It's Not Malware, and How You Can Use It
https://askleo.com/5362
What to Do With an Old Computer You've Been Given - What I Did With Mine
https://askleo.com/123348
Getting music and books from amazon...some for free...classical music files for less than 2 cents each.
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=bach+guild&i=digital-music-album&bbn=324381011&rh=p_n_feature_browse-bin%3A625150011%2Cp_36%3A1263258011&s=date-desc-rank&dc&qid=1610135104&rnid=1263257011&ref=sr_nr_p_36_1
or
https://tinyurl.com/AmazonClassicalMusicAlbums1-2
READING!
Amazon has a Kindle Classics library of free ebooks for the Kindle e-reader. Charles Dickens, Victor Hugo, Lewis Carroll, and many other authors familiar to every graduate of high school in the U. S. are available free of charge. Among the titles you can find here are "A Tale of Two Cities" and "Twenty Thousand Leagues under the Sea". Mark Twain’s “On the Decay of The Art of Lying” remains popular among government and public administration majors.
https://www.amazon.com/s/?node=2245146011
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/b/free-ebooks/nook-books/_/N-ry0Z8qa
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/arthur+conan+doyle/_/N-8qa?Ns=P_Sale_Price%7C0
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=a+c+doyle&rh=n%3A154606011&ref=nb_sb_noss
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/edgar+allan+poe/_/N-8qa?Ns=P_Sale_Price%7C0
====== 1-8-2021 Articles and websites Links =======
[John says: I watched part of "I Love Lucy" in my laptop browser after my free registration. You will need broadband, of course]
https://www.locast.org/
Watch Your Local Broadcast TV For Free!
Locast named 2020’s most-improved streaming service by TechHive
25 markets
45.6% of the US population
148,779,519 people
Locast is available in your area:
Boston
New York
Philadelphia
Chicago
Denver
Dallas
Houston
Baltimore
Washington DC
Sioux Falls
Rapid City
San Francisco
Los Angeles
Phoenix
Atlanta
Seattle
Sioux City
Puerto Rico
Tampa Bay
Miami
West Palm Beach
Minneapolis
Detroit
Indianapolis
Scranton
Locast is a not-for-profit service offering users access to broadcast television stations over the internet.
We stream the signal over the Internet to select US cities. We are trying to help broadcasters reach people just like you over the internet.
We Need Your Support Today...
Help us Free Your TV!
Locast has modernized the delivery of broadcast TV by offering streaming media free of charge. This is your right, this is our mission!
Available now on all popular mobile and streaming platforms Google playAndroidTVApp StoreAppleTVAmazon StoreRokuTivoDish HopperDirecTVU-verseTivo Stream 4K © 2020 Sports Fans Coalition NY, Inc.
============= 12-31-2020 Articles and websites Links ===========
Why a Chromebook? (And Why I Purchased Two for the Important People in My Life)
https://askleo.com/123339
Diagnosing a Slow-loading Webpage with Firefox - Introducing the Network Performance Display in Web Developer Tools
https://askleo.com/123005
Will My Email Be There If I Reactivate a Deleted Account? Don't Count On It
https://askleo.com/123034
What's a "Zero-Day" Attack? A Diagram of the Vulnerability Timeline
https://askleo.com/3195
Who's Trying to Change My Password? Why It Happens and What to Do
https://askleo.com/12626
Can I Move My Old Computer's Hard Drive to My New Computer to Transfer Data? My Recommended Approach
https://askleo.com/2424
Microsoft Account Recovery Code - What and Why with Instructions Included
https://askleo.com/123186
5 Steps to Better Wi-Fi In Your House - Improving Your Wireless Connection
https://askleo.com/123219
======== 12-23-2020 Articles and websites Links ======
Five Steps to Repair Windows 10 Without Losing Programs
https://askleo.com/122708
How Do I Print an Email in Black Instead of Gray in Outlook.com?
https://askleo.com/122567
Can My ISP See I'm Using a VPN or a Proxy?
https://askleo.com/10437
Can Someone Install Something on My Computer When It's Not Logged In?
https://askleo.com/2208
What Should I Do When My Information Is Involved in a Breach?
https://askleo.com/22845
How Do I Stop Email from Going to Junk in Outlook.com?
https://askleo.com/122838
How Do I Copy a Webpage? Four Approaches and an Interesting Insight
https://askleo.com/3034
How Do I Correct My Microsoft Account (Outlook.com) Time Zone? The Not-so-obvious Location Revealed
https://askleo.com/3631
===== 12-18-2020 Articles and websites Links ======
Recent conversation mention at CB zoom meeting:
Looking for an alternative to an expensive software?
Crowdsourced Software Recommendations
94,056 apps 784,183 likes 777,918 opinions about alternatives.
Reviews, comments and recommendations.
https://alternativeto.net/
Suggested as a free alternative to adobe photoshop in a CB conversation Welcome to Gimpshop Looking for a free alternative to Photoshop? You found it.
A professional design workspace
Professional Quality
Gimpshop can get the job done, whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro.
A laptop showing the photo editing features of the program Photoshop Features Layers, channels, masks, filters, levels, even advanced pattern matching: Gimpshop does it all.
A split screen of the program and it's open source code Completely Free We are proud to be free and open source software. Gimpshop is free in every sense of the word.
https://www.gimpshop.com/
Recommended by CB Art Christopherson
Snapseed is a complete and professional photo editor developed by Google https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.niksoftware.snapseed&hl=en_US&gl=US
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/snapseed/id439438619
Recommended by CB Robert Stryk, as an alternative to Adobe Photoshop Lightroom https://www.darktable.org/ darktable is an open source photography workflow application and raw developer. A virtual light table and darkroom for photographers. It manages your digital negatives in a database, lets you view them through a zoomable light table and enables you to develop raw images and enhance them.
Ctrl-shift-esc = taskmanager
www.flightradar24.com
Flightradar24 is a global flight tracking service that provides you with real-time information about thousands of aircraft around the world. Flightradar24 tracks 180,000+ flights, from 1,200+ airlines, flying to or from 4,000+ airports around the world in real time. Also currently available online and for your iOS or Android device.
======== 12-11-2020 Articles and websites Links =====
Did you use your flashdrive and somehow, when you try to reformat it, Windows shows you have only 2 of 16 gb?
Then use this HP utility to reformat it properly!
https://download.cnet.com/HP-USB-Disk-Storage-Format-Tool/3000-2094_4-10974082.html
run it as administrator and format your flash drive.
In most cases it will regain the "lost space" which Windows does not see or format.
Finding addresses and phone numbers
https://www.zabasearch.com/
https://www.mylife.com/
https://www.fastpeoplesearch.com
https://www.whitepages.com/
https://411.info/white-pages/Minnesota/Minneapolis/
https://www.telephonedirectories.us/Minnesota/St_Louis_Park/ZIP/55426
https://gis.hennepin.us/property/map/default.aspx
https://hclib.org/browse/online-resources
Scroll waaay down to
Reference Solutions
Formerly ReferenceUSA. Directories for Canadian businesses, and U.S. businesses and residences. Consumer/Lifestyles database offers market research.
Subscription purchased by the Metropolitan Library Service Agency (MELSA), with funding from state and federal tax revenues.
Category: Business, Directories
After clicking you'll need to enter your library card [account] info
======= 12-4-2020 Articles and websites Links =======
Does a Wi-Fi Log-in Page Mean It's Secure?
https://askleo.com/16526
How Do I Get Rid of Bing?
https://askleo.com/122477
How Do I Run a Program "As Administrator"?
https://askleo.com/4757
Can My Workplace See What Else I Do When I Work from Home?
https://askleo.com/122466
https://www.howtogeek.com/449046/what-is-the-brave-browser-and-how-does-it-compare-to-chrome/
There are more competing web browsers than ever, with many serving different niches. One example is Brave, which has an unapologetic focus on user privacy and comes with a radical reimagining of how online advertising ought to work.
Brave is based on Chromium, the open-source code that forms the basis for Google Chrome. But is it any good? And for those using Google Chrome, is it worth switching to Brave?<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/219384/how-to-avoid-snooping-on-hotel-wi-fi-and-other-public-networks/
Hotel Wi-Fi networks are often completely open, requiring only a room number, code, or click-through to access the Internet. This lack of real encryption means your Internet usage is vulnerable to snooping from others sharing the network.
Wi-Fi networks like the ones in use at most hotels aren’t private. The login process just lets the hotel limit access to the Internet. It doesn’t keep your Internet activity private.<snip>
======11-25-2020 Article and website Links ======
The Biggest Risk to Your Privacy
https://askleo.com/27036
Are Human Relations Skills Important in Tech?
https://askleo.com/3068
Why Didn't Windows Fix My Pet Peeve?
https://askleo.com/3345
How Important Is It to Seek Out and Take Updates?
https://askleo.com/122373
=======11-20-2020 Article and website Links ======
More free ebooks:
https://manybooks.net/
http://www.feedbooks.com/publicdomain
https://standardebooks.org/
Two interesting links shared by Computer Buddy Larry Everett:
https://www.iobit.com/en/iobit-software-updater.php
determines what apps have updates.
Version 3.4.0 | 13.2 MB | Supports Windows XP/Vista/7/8/8.1/10 and https://www.flightradar24.com
Flightradar24 is a global flight tracking service that provides you with real-time information about thousands of aircraft around the world. Flightradar24 tracks 180,000+ flights, from 1,200+ airlines, flying to or from 4,000+ airports around the world in real time. Our service is currently available online and for your iOS or Android device.
Add an Account to the Microsoft Mail Program
https://askleo.com/122088
How Do I Keep Outlook.com From Locking Me Out When I Travel?
https://askleo.com/12223
Five Steps to Better Security Working from Home
https://askleo.com/122384
How Can I Delete an Old Account If I Forgot My Email and Password?
https://askleo.com/121900
Should I Take the Flash Update I've Been Offered?
https://askleo.com/121864
The Risk of Searching for a Support Phone Number
https://askleo.com/22072
Can Video Chat Be Intercepted and Recorded?
https://askleo.com/10960
http://lite.cnn.com/en/article/h_0065b67f840c17a9bd5ab89597f48863
Yes, people are still using '123456' and 'password' as their password Thu November 19, 2020
(CNN) - When it comes to updating passwords, we are creatures of habit -- and change is hard.
But it's 2020 and it may be time to beef up your security game because, according to new research, people are still using easy-to-hack passwords like "123456789," the word "password," and "iloveyou."<snip>
https://www.nextgov.com/cybersecurity/2020/11/zoom-settles-ftc-about-false-claims-about-end-end-encryption/170049/
<snip> “Since at least 2016, Zoom misled users by touting that it offered ‘end-to-end, 256-bit encryption’ to secure users’ communications,” the FTC wrote of its complaint. “End-to-end encryption is a method of securing communications so that only the sender and recipient(s)—and no other person, not even the platform provider—can read the content. In reality, the FTC alleges, Zoom maintained the cryptographic keys that could allow Zoom to access the content of its customers’ meetings, and secured its Zoom Meetings, in part, with a lower level of encryption than promised.”<snip>
Installing or updating windows software, from reputable websites:
https://ninite.com/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ninite
https://www.liberkey.com/en.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LiberKey
https://portableapps.com/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PortableApps.com
http://www.winpenpack.com/en/index.php
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WinPenPack
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USB_flash_drive
https://www.portablefreeware.com/all.php
https://pendriveapps.com/
http://www.lupopensuite.com/bestapps.htm
https://appget.net/packages
https://tgup.net/about/available-apps/
https://www.windowsremix.com/software
http://www.getmacapps.com/
websites serving as an app
http://www.lupopensuite.com/webapps.htm
====== 11-13-2020 Article and website Links ======
How Do I Leave Services I Didn't Request?
https://askleo.com/121684
How Do I Find the DNS Server Used By My PC?
https://askleo.com/4904
How Can I View Online Video Without the Starts and Stops?
https://askleo.com/2981
How Often Is Windows 10 Updated?
https://askleo.com/121678
How Do I Remove a BIOS or UEFI Password?
https://askleo.com/4777
Can Malware Survive If I Reset My PC?
https://askleo.com/119997
How Can a PIN Be as Secure as a Password?
https://askleo.com/24089
How to Change the Default Search Engine in Microsoft Edge (New & Old)
https://askleo.com/25563
Can I Back Up to an Internal Drive?
https://askleo.com/4833
Why Don't I Get Sound from My Computer? (A Checklist)
https://askleo.com/11930
READING!
Amazon has a Kindle Classics library of free ebooks for the Kindle e-reader. Charles Dickens, Victor Hugo, Lewis Carroll, and many other authors familiar to every graduate of high school in the U. S. are available free of charge. Among the titles you can find here are "A Tale of Two Cities" and "Twenty Thousand Leagues under the Sea". Mark Twain’s “On the Decay of The Art of Lying” remains popular among government and public administration majors.
https://www.amazon.com/s/?node=2245146011
Articles on books in Wikipedia are adding the link to Standard Books as well as Project Gutenberg for books out of copyright. The Wikipedia article on Standard Books describes them.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Standard_Ebooks
https://standardebooks.org/ebooks
Over 7,000 free public domain books, most available as either audio- or e-books. Great collection for classics and kids' books!
Loyal Books (http://www.loyalbooks.com/
http://www.loyalbooks.com/genre/Mystery
https://archive.org/details/texts
Did you ever wish there were more Sherlock Holmes detective stories?
Many people don't know that a worthy competing author, of the same era, was Arthur Morrison.
Project Gutenberg has several of his short story books of Martin Hewitt, detective.
http://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/author/3903
Oh...you're welcome!
======= 10-30-2020 Article and website Links ======
What's on TV?
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TV_listings
https://www.titantv.com/
https://www.rabbitears.info/market.php?request=print_market&mktid=20
https://www.tvpassport.com/tv-listings
https://www.tvtv.us/mn/golden-valley/55426/lu16497
A tip From Larry, of the MSCIG
Zoom rolls out encryption for all desktop and mobile users.
Zoom has kicked off end-to-end encryption for its mobile and desktop apps. Phase one of the encryption rollout doesn't include meetings via a web browser.
By Liam Tung, October 27, 2020.
https://www.zdnet.com/article/zoom-rolls-out-encryption-for-all-desktop-and-mobile-users/?ftag=TRE-03-10aaa6b&bhid=1372960&mid=13136421&cid=716622005
On Tuesday, Zoom announced that end-to-end encryption (E2EE) is immediately available for users on Windows, macOS, and Android. The iOS version of the Zoom app is still awaiting approval from Apple's App Store review. It's being rolled out as a "technical preview" for 30 days, during which time Zoom aims to gather customer feedback about their experience with E2EE.
The company flagged its plans to roll out its E2EE capabilities last week. The desktop version with E2EE support is 5.4.0.
====== 10-23-2020 Article and website Links ======
The topic is READING
Amazon has a Kindle Classics library of free ebooks for the Kindle e-reader. Charles Dickens, Victor Hugo, Lewis Carroll, and many other authors familiar to every graduate of high school in the U. S. are available free of charge. Among the titles you can find here are "A Tale of Two Cities" and "Twenty Thousand Leagues under the Sea". Mark Twain’s “On the Decay of The Art of Lying” remains popular among government and public administration majors.
https://www.amazon.com/s/?node=2245146011
Articles on books in Wikipedia are adding the link to Standard Books as well as Project Gutenberg for books out of copyright. The Wikipedia article on Standard Books describes them.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Standard_Ebooks
https://standardebooks.org/ebooks
Over 7,000 free public domain books, most available as either audio- or e-books. Great collection for classics and kids' books!
Loyal Books (http://www.loyalbooks.com/
http://www.loyalbooks.com/genre/Mystery
https://archive.org/details/texts
https://ebookfriendly.com/free-public-domain-books-sources/
====== 10-16-2020 Article and website Links =====
"Lightweight" web browsers for windows
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SlimBrowser
https://www.slimjet.com
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Comodo_IceDragon
https://icedragon.comodo.com
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Otter_Browser
https://otter-browser.org/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NetSurf
https://www.netsurf-browser.org
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Comparison_of_lightweight_web_browsers
https://tinyurl.com/Lightweight-Web-Browsers
this last link is a google search.
When it comes to backing up, I'm a belt-and-suspenders and duct-tape-and-baling-wire kinda guy.
How Do YOU Back Up, Leo?
https://askleo.com/119768
Why Does Malware Exist?
https://askleo.com/6256
If something were to happen to you, would the people you leave behind be able to access the information they need?
Preparing For The Ultimate Disaster
https://askleo.com/19633
====== 10-8-2020 Article and website Links ======
What's an "Internal Server Error" and How Do I Fix It?
https://askleo.com/2649
Why Doesn't My Internet Speed Match What I'm Paying For?
https://askleo.com/10932
How Can an Https Website Still Not Be Secure?
https://askleo.com/3461
How Much Can I Trust Information on the Internet?
https://askleo.com/5639
Can a Thumb Drive Carry Malware?
https://askleo.com/6398
Why Does Email I Send Fail But a Reply Works?
https://askleo.com/117124
The First Eight Things to Do with Your New Computer
https://askleo.com/4689
A message pops up on your computer, warning you that malware has been detected.
What do you do?
The answer's not as clear as you might think.
In fact, no matter what you choose to do, it could be the wrong thing.
Continue Reading: It Pays to Be Skeptical
https://askleo.com/21535
How do you turn a really long URL link into something easy to send and click?
I recommend
https://tinyurl.com
MORE Open source freeware pages for Windows, and one for AppleMac
----
http://www.opensourcewindows.org
----
https://bartvandewoestyne.github.io/osswin/
----
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_free_and_open-source_software_packages
----
https://portableapps.com
----
http://opensourcemac.org
----
https://whdb.com/blog/proprietary-programs-and-open-source-alternatives/
----
http://www.myopensource.org/category/ufficio
====================================
Public Domain Films to View on-line...and some can be downloaded!
https://www.fesfilms.com/
https://www.fesfilms.com/public-domain/mystery.html
https://tiny.cc/SherlockHolmesFilm
https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Sherlock+Holmes+in+Terror+By+Night++
https://archive.org/search.php?query=Sherlock%2BHolmes%2Bin%2BTerror%2BBy%2BNight
https://archive.org/details/TerrorByNight720p1946
=======11-20-2020 Article and website Links ======
More free ebooks:
https://manybooks.net/
http://www.feedbooks.com/publicdomain
https://standardebooks.org/
Two interesting links shared by Computer Buddy Larry Everett:
https://www.iobit.com/en/iobit-software-updater.php
determines what apps have updates.
Version 3.4.0 | 13.2 MB | Supports Windows XP/Vista/7/8/8.1/10 and https://www.flightradar24.com
Flightradar24 is a global flight tracking service that provides you with real-time information about thousands of aircraft around the world. Flightradar24 tracks 180,000+ flights, from 1,200+ airlines, flying to or from 4,000+ airports around the world in real time. Our service is currently available online and for your iOS or Android device.
Add an Account to the Microsoft Mail Program
https://askleo.com/122088
How Do I Keep Outlook.com From Locking Me Out When I Travel?
https://askleo.com/12223
Five Steps to Better Security Working from Home
https://askleo.com/122384
How Can I Delete an Old Account If I Forgot My Email and Password?
https://askleo.com/121900
Should I Take the Flash Update I've Been Offered?
https://askleo.com/121864
The Risk of Searching for a Support Phone Number
https://askleo.com/22072
Can Video Chat Be Intercepted and Recorded?
https://askleo.com/10960
http://lite.cnn.com/en/article/h_0065b67f840c17a9bd5ab89597f48863
Yes, people are still using '123456' and 'password' as their password Thu November 19, 2020
(CNN) - When it comes to updating passwords, we are creatures of habit -- and change is hard.
But it's 2020 and it may be time to beef up your security game because, according to new research, people are still using easy-to-hack passwords like "123456789," the word "password," and "iloveyou."<snip>
https://www.nextgov.com/cybersecurity/2020/11/zoom-settles-ftc-about-false-claims-about-end-end-encryption/170049/
<snip> “Since at least 2016, Zoom misled users by touting that it offered ‘end-to-end, 256-bit encryption’ to secure users’ communications,” the FTC wrote of its complaint. “End-to-end encryption is a method of securing communications so that only the sender and recipient(s)—and no other person, not even the platform provider—can read the content. In reality, the FTC alleges, Zoom maintained the cryptographic keys that could allow Zoom to access the content of its customers’ meetings, and secured its Zoom Meetings, in part, with a lower level of encryption than promised.”<snip>
Installing or updating windows software, from reputable websites:
https://ninite.com/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ninite
https://www.liberkey.com/en.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LiberKey
https://portableapps.com/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PortableApps.com
http://www.winpenpack.com/en/index.php
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WinPenPack
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USB_flash_drive
https://www.portablefreeware.com/all.php
https://pendriveapps.com/
http://www.lupopensuite.com/bestapps.htm
https://appget.net/packages
https://tgup.net/about/available-apps/
https://www.windowsremix.com/software
http://www.getmacapps.com/
websites serving as an app
http://www.lupopensuite.com/webapps.htm
====== 11-13-2020 Article and website Links ======
How Do I Leave Services I Didn't Request?
https://askleo.com/121684
How Do I Find the DNS Server Used By My PC?
https://askleo.com/4904
How Can I View Online Video Without the Starts and Stops?
https://askleo.com/2981
How Often Is Windows 10 Updated?
https://askleo.com/121678
How Do I Remove a BIOS or UEFI Password?
https://askleo.com/4777
Can Malware Survive If I Reset My PC?
https://askleo.com/119997
How Can a PIN Be as Secure as a Password?
https://askleo.com/24089
How to Change the Default Search Engine in Microsoft Edge (New & Old)
https://askleo.com/25563
Can I Back Up to an Internal Drive?
https://askleo.com/4833
Why Don't I Get Sound from My Computer? (A Checklist)
https://askleo.com/11930
READING!
Amazon has a Kindle Classics library of free ebooks for the Kindle e-reader. Charles Dickens, Victor Hugo, Lewis Carroll, and many other authors familiar to every graduate of high school in the U. S. are available free of charge. Among the titles you can find here are "A Tale of Two Cities" and "Twenty Thousand Leagues under the Sea". Mark Twain’s “On the Decay of The Art of Lying” remains popular among government and public administration majors.
https://www.amazon.com/s/?node=2245146011
Articles on books in Wikipedia are adding the link to Standard Books as well as Project Gutenberg for books out of copyright. The Wikipedia article on Standard Books describes them.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Standard_Ebooks
https://standardebooks.org/ebooks
Over 7,000 free public domain books, most available as either audio- or e-books. Great collection for classics and kids' books!
Loyal Books (http://www.loyalbooks.com/
http://www.loyalbooks.com/genre/Mystery
https://archive.org/details/texts
Did you ever wish there were more Sherlock Holmes detective stories?
Many people don't know that a worthy competing author, of the same era, was Arthur Morrison.
Project Gutenberg has several of his short story books of Martin Hewitt, detective.
http://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/author/3903
Oh...you're welcome!
======= 10-30-2020 Article and website Links =======
What's on TV?
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TV_listings
https://www.titantv.com/
https://www.rabbitears.info/market.php?request=print_market&mktid=20
https://www.tvpassport.com/tv-listings
https://www.tvtv.us/mn/golden-valley/55426/lu16497
A tip From Larry, of the MSCIG
Zoom rolls out encryption for all desktop and mobile users.
Zoom has kicked off end-to-end encryption for its mobile and desktop apps. Phase one of the encryption rollout doesn't include meetings via a web browser.
By Liam Tung, October 27, 2020.
https://www.zdnet.com/article/zoom-rolls-out-encryption-for-all-desktop-and-mobile-users/?ftag=TRE-03-10aaa6b&bhid=1372960&mid=13136421&cid=716622005
On Tuesday, Zoom announced that end-to-end encryption (E2EE) is immediately available for users on Windows, macOS, and Android. The iOS version of the Zoom app is still awaiting approval from Apple's App Store review. It's being rolled out as a "technical preview" for 30 days, during which time Zoom aims to gather customer feedback about their experience with E2EE.
The company flagged its plans to roll out its E2EE capabilities last week. The desktop version with E2EE support is 5.4.0.
======= 10-23-2020 Article and website Links ======
The topic is READING
Amazon has a Kindle Classics library of free ebooks for the Kindle e-reader. Charles Dickens, Victor Hugo, Lewis Carroll, and many other authors familiar to every graduate of high school in the U. S. are available free of charge. Among the titles you can find here are "A Tale of Two Cities" and "Twenty Thousand Leagues under the Sea". Mark Twain’s “On the Decay of The Art of Lying” remains popular among government and public administration majors.
https://www.amazon.com/s/?node=2245146011
Articles on books in Wikipedia are adding the link to Standard Books as well as Project Gutenberg for books out of copyright. The Wikipedia article on Standard Books describes them.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Standard_Ebooks
https://standardebooks.org/ebooks
Over 7,000 free public domain books, most available as either audio- or e-books. Great collection for classics and kids' books!
Loyal Books (http://www.loyalbooks.com/
http://www.loyalbooks.com/genre/Mystery
https://archive.org/details/texts
https://ebookfriendly.com/free-public-domain-books-sources/
======= 10-16-2020 Article and website Links =======
"Lightweight" web browsers for windows
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SlimBrowser
https://www.slimjet.com
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Comodo_IceDragon
https://icedragon.comodo.com
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Otter_Browser
https://otter-browser.org/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NetSurf
https://www.netsurf-browser.org
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Comparison_of_lightweight_web_browsers
https://tinyurl.com/Lightweight-Web-Browsers
this last link is a google search.
When it comes to backing up, I'm a belt-and-suspenders and duct-tape-and-baling-wire kinda guy.
How Do YOU Back Up, Leo?
https://askleo.com/119768
Why Does Malware Exist?
https://askleo.com/6256
If something were to happen to you, would the people you leave behind be able to access the information they need?
Preparing For The Ultimate Disaster
https://askleo.com/19633
====== 10-8-2020 Article and website Links =======
What's an "Internal Server Error" and How Do I Fix It?
https://askleo.com/2649
Why Doesn't My Internet Speed Match What I'm Paying For?
https://askleo.com/10932
How Can an Https Website Still Not Be Secure?
https://askleo.com/3461
How Much Can I Trust Information on the Internet?
https://askleo.com/5639
Can a Thumb Drive Carry Malware?
https://askleo.com/6398
Why Does Email I Send Fail But a Reply Works?
https://askleo.com/117124
The First Eight Things to Do with Your New Computer
https://askleo.com/4689
A message pops up on your computer, warning you that malware has been detected.
What do you do?
The answer's not as clear as you might think.
In fact, no matter what you choose to do, it could be the wrong thing.
Continue Reading: It Pays to Be Skeptical
https://askleo.com/21535
How do you turn a really long URL link into something easy to send and click?
I recommend
https://tinyurl.com
MORE Open source freeware pages for Windows, and one for AppleMac
----
http://www.opensourcewindows.org
----
https://bartvandewoestyne.github.io/osswin/
----
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_free_and_open-source_software_packages
----
https://portableapps.com
----
http://opensourcemac.org
----
https://whdb.com/blog/proprietary-programs-and-open-source-alternatives/
----
http://www.myopensource.org/category/ufficio
======= 10-2-2020 Article and website Links =======
10 Video Sites That Are Better Than YouTube
BY DAN PRICE DEC 09, 2019
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/top-12-sites-watch-videos-youtube/
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/5-websites-learn-gimp-photo-editor-online/
5 Websites to Learn GIMP Online
BY STEVE CAMPBELL FEB 08, 2010
Are you into photo editing and image manipulation? If that's a "˜yes' then I'm sure you've heard of the GNU Image Manipulation Program, codename GIMP. The GIMP photo editor is a free and light alternative to Adobe Photoshop and is very capable of handling all of your image processing needs. If you've mastered MS Paint and don't have deep enough pockets for Photoshop, GIMP is for you.
10 Essential Windows Apps for Students
BY RAHUL SAIGAL JAN 16, 2019 UPDATED SEP 24, 2020
1. OneNote note taking app
2.Google Drive office suite collaboration, cloud storage 3. Anki Flashcards study app 4.MyHomework study planner app 5. Wolfram Alpha search engine 6. Polar reader, doc mgr.
7. Zotero ref mgr. for footnotes
8. Grammarly writing helper
9. Cold Turkey app blocker
10. Edraw MindMaster mind mapping app
How does using BCC help reduce spam?
http://ask-leo.com/C3643
Search Engines Infos Links
----
https://www.google.com/search?hl=en&source=hp&q=search+engines+list&aq=1&aqi=g10&oq=searc
----
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_search_engines
----
http://www.thesearchenginelist.com
----
https://www.lifewire.com/best-search-engines-2483352
----
http://www.20search.com
All about the windows taskbar...through "history"....
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taskbar
http://en.allexperts.com/q/Microsoft-Word-1058/Deleting-Empty-Rows.htm
Question:
I have a very large document.
The paragraphs are separated by an empty line.
Is there an option available that can delete all empty lines?
Answer:
Ctrl + H
Find what:
Replace with:
in the "Find What:" field type
^p^p (shift 6 + lower case p 2 times)
in the "Replace with:" field type nothing (leave it blank) Click on replace all NOW...... This is going to replace every instance of two hard returns together. If you notice you will see a hard return at the end of every typed paragraph and one on the blank line. You want to only have the one at the end of the paragraph.
When you have completed this you may realize you don't like the results of doing it to the entire document and you may have to select text and apply to only the selected text, sections at a time.
You may also find that you would like some kind of distance between your paragraphs in which case you will select all the text or just portions of your text . Go to the Format menu > Paragraph > in the middle of the window find Before and After and start with 6 in the after field. You can manually type in a 3 if that is what you want after experimenting.
Don't forget to have a backup copy in case you feel like you messed something up.
Freeware Sources
----
http://www.freewaremission.com/best-freeware/5-best-free-cd-dvd-burning-software/
short reviews and links
----
https://helpdeskgeek.com/free-tools-review/best-freeware-programs-for-windows/
individual topic sentences with a link.
----
https://www.thesimpledollar.com/save-money/30-essential-pieces-of-free-and-open-software-for-windows/
moderately long scroll page
----
http://www.freewaremission.com/2008/08/51-essential-programs-for-a-freeware-only-PC/
8 links for 8 pages
----
https://www.pcmag.com/news/best-free-software
long scroll page
----
https://www.maketecheasier.com/best-101-free-computer-software-for-your-daily-use/
Content
Gaming Tools
Office Suite
Note-taking apps
Web Browsers
Media Players
File Compression
Instant Messaging
Email Clients
Torrent Managers
Anti-Spyware and Anti-Virus
FTP Clients
Password Managers
Iso Management Software
Download Managers
Screenshot Tools
Code Editors
Photo Editors
eBook Readers and Tools
Game Emulators
Diagramming and Charts
Backup Software
System Optimization
long scroll page
----
https://www.gizbot.com/computer/features/20-free-and-essential-software-for-windows-pc-043097.html
colorful scroll page
----
https://techtalk.pcmatic.com/2009/05/26/top-free-software/
sortable by category link list
----
https://www.pcworld.com/article/2082305/best-free-software-for-pc.html
slideshow
----
https://www.pcmag.com/news/best-android-apps
----
https://www.freeoffice.com/en/freeoffice
free office suite
----
https://pc.wps.com/
free office suite
====== 9-25-2020 Article and website Links ======
"Creating MP3s from your personal audio CDs"
You can leave your mp3 at home and listen to music files of them in your car, on your phone, from a thumb drive.
I like to use CDex to easily create and name the files.
http://www.oldversion.com/windows/cdex/
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/portable-software-usb/
https://www.topbestalternatives.com/oldversion/
====== 9-18-2020 Article and website Links =======
https://www.michaelhorowitz.com/
computer advice webpage
https://www.techsupportalert.com/
A Community Site for Reviewing and Rating the Best Free Software
https://www.techsupportalert.com/free-ebooks-audio-books-read-online-download.htm
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/portable-software-usb/
100 Portable Apps for Your USB Stick for Windows and macOS Portable apps let you take your favorite software anywhere via a flash drive or cloud storage. Here are 100 of them to cover your every need, from games to image editors.
========== 9-11-2020 article links =========
Can a computer (laptop or desktop) text message a mobile phone, and can a mobile phone text message a computer? If so, how?
Sending Text Messages Using Your Computer
https://askleo.com/116519
Using OneDrive for Nearly Continuous Backup
https://askleo.com/29368
A Recent Update Prevents Me from Booting. How Do I Fix It?
https://askleo.com/116313
Picking Up and Setting Up My New Desktop
https://askleo.com/116329
Some tip links from Larry Everett, MSCIG Computer Buddy
https://www.laptopmag.com/articles/best-usb-type-c-accessories-cables
Best USB Type C accessories and cables https://www.laptopmag.com/articles/best-usb-type-c-accessories-cables
Best WiFi analyzer app for Windows
https://www.netspotapp.com/best-wifi-analyzer-windows-apps.html
inSSIDer for Home helps you measure the signal strength and estimate the performance of your Wi-Fi in various locations.
The best VPN service 2020
https://www.techradar.com/vpn/best-vpn
-------------------------------------------------------------------
https://tinyapps.org/
tinyapps.org
Welcome to tinyapps.org, an aging catalog of tiny, well-made software primarily for Windows. Categories include:
Network; text; graphics; system; file; misc.; Palm OS; OS X Increasingly, the site serves simply as an irregular tech blog and document vault. If this is your first visit, please read the FAQ.
I {JohnM] will focus on the three web browsers in the Network section:
Web Browsing
OffByOne Web Browser 3.5a [409k] + "May be the world's smallest and fastest Web Browser with full HTML 3.2 support. It is a completely self-contained, stand-alone 1.1mb application with no dependencies on any other browser or browser component." 📺
🌱 D+ Browser 0.5b (formerly "Dillo") [1304k] {S}+ "A graphical web browser with an emphasis on security, performance, and portability." 📺[John says "It works even better with images turned off"]
========== 9-4-2020 article links ========
How Do I Completely Uninstall a Program?
https://askleo.com/115300
How Do I Hack Someone's Account?
https://askleo.com/2590
Designing My New Desktop
https://askleo.com/115158
Microsoft Edge, the new web browser included in Windows 10, has a long and troubled history.
Edge Redeemed
https://askleo.com/115266
How Long Should a Password Be?
https://askleo.com/4844
Does Emptying Trash in Email Keep Others from Seeing My Deleted Email?
https://askleo.com/6401
View Your Saved Passwords in Google Chrome
https://askleo.com/114053
The Results of My Year-Long Laptop Experiment
https://askleo.com/114067
Audio and video converters:
https://www.anvsoft.com/products.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Any_Video_Converter
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Comparison_of_video_converters
========== 8-25-2020 article links ====================
Do All These Software Updates Take Up More and More Disk Space?
https://askleo.com/4490
Focus Better with Multiple Desktops
https://askleo.com/113674
What Does "Not Responding" Mean?
https://askleo.com/2722
Does Turning Off Remote Access Keep Me Safer?
https://askleo.com/6403
In order to thwart poorly-behaved and malicious programs, Windows 10 made a major change to the way default programs are set.
The change can be startling if you're not prepared for it.
How Windows 10 Changed Setting Default Programs
https://askleo.com/24049
Why Don't Pictures Show When I Visit Some Websites?
https://askleo.com/2065
Why Do So Many Tech Support Solutions Start with "Reboot" or "Turn It Off"?
https://askleo.com/2434
Why Is the Same File in Two or More Places on My Machine?
https://askleo.com/110765
What Security Software Do You Recommend?
https://askleo.com/3517
Using Android OS on PC Computers
https://www.tech21century.com/best-android-os-for-pc-computers
11 Best Android OS for PC Computers (32,64 bit) Android is one of the most popular operating systems for small handheld devices (smartphones, tablets, smart watches etc.) and other electronic gadgets such as streaming TV boxes, smart TVs etc.
They list BlueStacks; PrimeOS; Chrome OS; Bliss OS-x86; Phoenix OS; OpenThos; Remix OS for PC; Android-x86; LineageOS; Koplayer and Genymotion I experimented with BlueStacks, and will demo it on Zoom.
========== 8-21-2020 article links ====================
OK, Boomer: Why Computer Literacy Matters to You
https://askleo.com/110284
Can I Install Windows 7 on a Machine that Comes with Windows 10?
https://askleo.com/6408
Does Installing Many Programs Destabilize My Computer?
https://askleo.com/6406
Is a Microsoft Office Subscription Worth It?
https://askleo.com/3440
Why I Bought My Wife a Mac (Updated)
https://askleo.com/5885
Can't I Just Copy Everything Instead of Using a Backup Program?
https://askleo.com/3117
How to Speed Up Your Older Computer: Five Options
https://askleo.com/107845
Will My Old Computer Run Windows 10?
https://askleo.com/79111
Saving music from youtube
---------------------------------------------------
https://youtubetomp3.sc/
Vidconverter is Free Online Video Downloader and Converter that can download and convert a youtube video to an mp3 file from Youtube, Facebook, Instagram, Vimeo and other popular video sites in seconds.
------------------------------------------------------
https://www.y2mate.com/youtube-mp3/SrKNFQQpc5I
This converter allows you to convert YouTube videos to MP3 files with just a few clicks. It supports all formats, such as MP3 (128kbps, 320kbps, 64kbps, 96kbps, 192kbps, 256 kbps), AAC, MP4, M4V, 3GP, WMV, WMA, FLV, MO, WEBM, etc. You can now easily convert thousands of videos from YouTube into your favorite songs. It has never been easier to convert YouTube to MP3.
========== 8-14-2020 article links ====================
How Do I Fix the Master Boot Record (MBR)?
https://askleo.com/104130
Is Windows 10 Still Free in 2020?
https://askleo.com/31767
What is "Print To File" Used For?
https://askleo.com/4826
“How do I get better at using my computer?”
The Most Important Skill You Can Improve
https://askleo.com/31067
My Files Disappeared from Downloads. How Do I Get Them Back?
https://askleo.com/105130
How To Find a File on Your Computer
https://askleo.com/3009
How to Hover Over a Link to Check its Validity
https://askleo.com/3241
Using Windows Disk Cleanup
https://askleo.com/7949
Why Am I Getting Spam from Myself?
https://askleo.com/3131
How Do I Find the IP Address of an Email's Sender?
https://askleo.com/106470
What is Bandwidth as It Applies to My Computer?
https://askleo.com/106619
Can I Count on Mail to a Bad Address Bouncing Back?
https://askleo.com/2870
========== 8-7-2020 article links ====================
“How Apple and Amazon Security Flaws Led to My Epic Hacking”, on Wired.com, is a tale of account hacks leading to the compromise of several accounts. Let's look at the lessons learned, and some of the steps you and I can take to avoid, or at least seriously minimize, the risk of ever experiencing something similar.
What Can We Learn from Mat Honan?
https://askleo.com/103465
Is Wi-Fi Provided by My Landlord Safe?
https://askleo.com/3326
Phishing: How to Know It When You See It
https://askleo.com/16491
Is There a Limit to What a Single Folder or Directory Can Hold?
https://askleo.com/3024
Why Are There Websites in My Browser History I've Never Been To?
https://askleo.com/2624
When Does Windows 10 Support End?
https://askleo.com/102209
I hear regularly from people frantically trying to access important, sentimental, or critical data that a recently deceased or incapacitated friend or family member has locked up tightly.
What Happens When I Die?
https://askleo.com/19633
Saving paper, Ink and Toner by using Narrow fonts, page formatting
https://bit.ly/31cLvyG [link to google search of narrow fonts]
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ecofont
============ 7-31-2020 article links ===========
Online Shopping: Just How Safe Is It?
https://askleo.com/2475
How to Determine What's Installed on Your Machine
https://askleo.com/2955
How Do I Tell If My Email Has Been Hacked?
https://askleo.com/7769
Do I Need More than One Anti-malware Tool?
https://askleo.com/2833
Why Is It So Important to Use a Different Password on Every Site?
https://askleo.com/11788
Is a Periodic Password Change a Good Thing?
https://askleo.com/4294
How to Diagnose Wi-Fi Signal Strength Issues
https://askleo.com/101443
============ 7-17-2020 email links ===========
Information sites:
drudgereport.com
refdesk.com
m.refdesk.com
https://www.google.com/search?&q=sites+like+refdesk
To have a simple computer crash cause “huge” data loss … well, this doesn't need to happen. Ever.
https://askleo.com/30820
It might be possible to recover old data from an external hard drive — or any hard drive — as long as a few conditions are met.
I'll review what those are, and then I'll recover some files from an external drive I recently formatted.
Can I Recover Old Files from an External Hard Drive?
https://askleo.com/9921
To reformat and reinstall is the computer equivalent of erasing the chalkboard and starting over with a completely blank slate.
To a computer, that means erasing the hard disk and starting over with nothing.
That phrase “erasing the hard disk” is exceptionally important, and important to understand fully.
How Do I Reformat and Reinstall Windows?
https://askleo.com/23277
Can I Back Up Files to a Separate Partition on the Same Hard Disk?
https://askleo.com/4800
============ 7-10-2020 email links ===========
My favorite greenware programs:
1by1 MP3 player install, then program file folder is portable (I,TPFIP)
ASFbin WMA, WMV editor (I,TPFIP)
AudacityPortable audio recorder, editor
Avant MSIE browser skin (I,TPFIP)
CDex-151 Rip CDs to MP3 audio files (I,TPFIP)
foobar2000 Audio CD and Audio file player (I,TPFIP)
HiNetRecorder record streaming wma, asf (I,TPFIP)
IrfanView picture editor, viewer (I,TPFIP)
MP3-DirectCut MP3 audio file editor (I,TPFIP)
Off-by-1 MP3 audio file player (I,TPFIP) OpenOfficePortable similar to microsoft office PrintFolder print a list of files in your folder (I,TPFIP)
STP-MP3 MP3 and CD player, portable
YouTube Downloader (I,TPFIP)
PocketK-Meleon1.02 web browser
Ratajik Station Ripper record streaming audio "stations" (I,TPFIP) StartUpRun view and control startup programs (I,TPFIP) AusLogics Disk Defrag (I,TPFIP) DeepBurner portable -- make audio and data CDs YATETRIS tetris game screamer radio record streaming audio "stations" (I,TPFIP)
best CB links from [pt.1] 2009, still linking! ----------------------------------
https://www.snapfiles.com/freeware/
41 pages of freeware tools,
a couple of which I have tried.
Freeware Tools at hiren.info:
http://www.hiren.info/downloads/freeware-tools/1
http://mashable.com/2007/09/23/open-source/
OPEN SOURCE: 480+ Open Source Applications September 23, 2007 - - by Daksh Sharma - Open source software is booming: a round up over 480 open source applications for you to use or build upon. (not all are windows
applications)
If you ever needed a justification to add the adobe flash player to your computer, this might be just the reason: a one-page planner which folds into 1/8 page to put in your pocket. I designed one good for 6 weeks at a time.
http://www.pocketmod.com/
Windows Desktop Software - Editors Choice Selection Index To read brief descriptions of the applications, select a Category Group or view all items in one massive list.
https://www.techsupportalert.com/best-free-windows-desktop-software.htm
http://ask-leo.com/whats_hogging_my_machine_for_so_long_on_startup.html
Two pages of freeware descriptions, links http://thundercloud.net/infoave/answers/hall-of-fame/index.htm
------------------------------------------------------------------------
simple editing of an mp3 audio file, using mp3directcut https://mpesch3.de/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mp3DirectCut
https://www.portablefreeware.com/index.php?id=91
https://pendriveapps.com/mp3directcut-audio-editor/
https://www.thewindowsclub.com/edit-mp3-audio-mp3directcut-windows-pc/
============ 7-2-2020 email links ===========
Test the speed of your internet connection:
http://www.speakeasy.net/speedtest/
https://www.snapfiles.com/freeware/
A reputable freeware site
http://www.oldapps.com/
older versions of software
https://www.groovypost.com/tips/
a new-to-me website I found while...umm...looking around.
Using their menu bar you can see their homepage and other web pages.
Software and Internet Tips:
---------------------------------------------------------------------
https://thegeekpage.com/microsoft-word-2016/
25 Hidden Microsoft word 2016 Tips to use ms word faster September 28, 2019 By Admin Everyone uses microsoft word irrespective of whether he is in business or in his student life. But, most of the people are unaware of the powerful hidden features which can let them use ms word 2016 more efficiently and intelligently. So, here goes a list of 100 such tips and tricks to make you a ms word master quickly.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
https://thegeekpage.com/google-search-tricks/
60 Google Tricks to Make You a Power User ! Updated July 7, 2017 By Admin I know You use google daily. But Nothing wrong in taking a info dip to find out how many of the Google tips and tricks you know. These hidden google tips are the one which most people are unaware of. Here are a list of useful google searching tips as well as tips and tricks of Google products.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
https://thegeekpage.com/tech-hacks/
101 Amazing PC / Internet Tricks no one told you before July 7, 2017 By Admin A list of one of the best hidden 101 Computer tips and tricks to impress your friends which you have been unaware of so far in life. Here you go.
============ 6-26-2020 email links ===========
What's the Best Registry Cleaner?
https://askleo.com/2710
Does Whole-disk Encryption Impact Computer Performance?
https://askleo.com/97268
Why Do I See Lots of Failed Login Attempts on My Account?
https://askleo.com/14543
Why Am I Getting "Invalid Password"?
https://askleo.com/97289
Has a Hacker Really Hacked My Email Account?
https://askleo.com/65875
How To Reduce System Restore Disk Space Usage
https://askleo.com/3633
How Do I Get into My Outlook.com Account If I Don't Have the Recovery Phone or Email?
https://askleo.com/16095
NAS stands for “Network Attached Storage”. What's a NAS? How Do I Set One Up?
https://askleo.com/98349
=============== BONUS ========================
I reviewed CB email from 2008, verified the links and have this to reoffer:
http://freewarewiki.com/w/page/14935251/FreewareReviews
http://freewarewiki.com/w/page/14936225/NewsLetters
http://www.topfreeware.net/
http://www.topfreeware.net/portable.htm
On this site you'll find the best freeware software downloads available on the internet and tips to help optimize your system.
I've searched and hunted down the best free software from the internet, so you don't have to. There are a lot of good software programs available for free, that are legal to download and use. Personally myself, I will not go out and pay for a program unless I can't get it off the net for free.
Long live freeware software downloads.
https://www.techsupportalert.com/best-free-portable-programs.htm
https://www.techsupportalert.com/best-free-windows-desktop-software.htm
https://www.pcmag.com/opinions/the-coming-death-of-freeware
https://www.lifewire.com/windows-4781566
Windows Software & Apps
Whether you won't give up Windows XP or you've settled in with Windows 10, we can help you optimize features and troubleshoot problems to fix things on your own.
https://geekgirls.com/
Geekgirl's Plain English Computing
Computer tips and techniques you can understand Welcome to Geekgirl’s Plain English Computing.
Here you’ll find articles on (mostly arcane) computer topics ranging from Windows 7 to Microsoft Office to security tips.
Go ahead and browse the articles below, or use the Article Index or Search in the menu to dig around.
https://freeditorial.com/
All reading and downloading on Freeditorial is free The 10 Most Downloaded Books Recommended Books Humor & Entertainment New Arrivals
https://www.stopbadware.org/
About StopBadware
Our work protects people and organizations from becoming victims of viruses, spyware, scareware, and other badware. StopBadware is a program housed within the Security Economics Lab at the University of Tulsa; StopBadware is co-directed by Dr. Tyler Moore and Dr. Marie Vasek.
StopBadware started as a project of the renowned Berkman Center for Internet & Society at Harvard University, and we spun off as an independent nonprofit organization in 2010. We then turned back into a university research project in 2015. From our inception, we've been led and shaped by top thinkers in the fields of security and Internet policy. Historically, StopBadware was the only not-for-profit organization focused on protecting the public from badware websites.
https://www.zamzar.com/
Zamzar - Video Converter, Audio Converter, Image Converter, eBook Converter File conversion made easy Convert documents, images, videos & sound - 1100+ formats supported
https://www.askwoody.com/
AskWoody News, tips, advice, support for Windows, Office, PCs & more. Tech help. No bull.
https://www.thesimpledollar.com/save-money/30-essential-pieces-of-free-and-open-software-for-windows/
30 Essential Pieces Of Free (and Open) Software for Windows Trent Hamm, Jul 23, 2019 Here is a list of thirty pieces of software that are the cream of the crop of open source software for Windows. Not only is every piece of it free, almost all of them directly replace expensive software packages.
http://www.lupopensuite.com/
Lupo PenSuite (v2016)
The free collection of portable software for everyone
- all-in-one for every needs
- completely free and portable
- translated in 28 languages
- no spyware, adware or viruses
- easy to use and to personalize
- over 160 programs and games included
- thousands of programs and games available
http://www.freewaremission.com/
http://www.freewaremission.com/2008/12/72-programs-for-a-freeware-only-pc/
http://www.freewaremission.com/2009/11/94-great-freeware-programs-for-a-freeware-only-pc/
http://www.freewaremission.com/2008/08/51-essential-programs-for-a-freeware-only-pc/
Question:
I have a very large document.
The paragraphs are separated by an empty line.
Is there an option available that can delete all empty lines?
Answer:
Ctrl + H
Find what:
Replace with:
in the "Find What:" field type
^p^p (shift 6 + lower case p 2 times)
in the "Replace with:" field type nothing (leave it blank) Click on replace all
https://ss64.com/nt/
An A-Z Index of Windows CMD commands.
Where are the Best Free Fonts?
Posted by ClifNotes, Oct 2008
(from CC - good selection 100's free)
http://www.urbanfonts.com/free-fonts.htm
(from SubHash - Most of their fonts are freeware) http://dafont.com (from Clif) 75 Free Font Resources http://www.bookmarkbliss.com/web-design/bookmark-bliss-75-free-font-resources/
More Than 150,000 Free Fonts And Dingbats http://www.emmaalvarez.com/2008/03/more-than-150000-free-fonts-and.html
Articles by category: Fonts
http://www.smashingmagazine.com/category/fonts/
Free Font Resources
http://www.thefreesite.com/Free_Fonts/
Try YouConvertIt. This free site will convert files to different formats quickly and easily. Just select your files and choose a format. It's that easy! www.youconvertit.com
http://www.internetfixes.com/
Thank you for visiting Internet Fixes, the location for free online computer support and computer related information.
============ 6-19-2020 email links ===========
Listening to Streaming Music Services on the web
https://alternativeto.net/software/screamer-radio/
[scroll to page bottom and click load more apps...a couple times]
Update: here are some more streaming music links:
Classical music streams, low bitrate
http://magnatune.com/genres/classical/lofi_play
http://www.moreenergy.com/minnesota.html
MINNESOTA Television, Radio & Newspaper Guide Watch television, listen to the radio, or read the daily newspaper on your computer. Just click on the state the station is from and scroll down to the station.
http://directory.shoutcast.com/
The Leader in Streaming Audio
87,891 radio stations using our technology Genre
Alternative Blues Classical Country Easy Listening Electronic
Folk Themes Rap Inspirational International
Jazz Latin Metal New Age Decades Pop
R&B and Urban Reggae Rock Seasonal and Holiday
Soundtracks Talk Misc Public Radio
============ 6-12-2020 email links ===========
What are the Internet's Rules about Free Speech?
https://askleo.com/10916
Do I Need to Make a New Rescue Disc Every Time My Backup Software Updates?
https://askleo.com/3632
Can I Delete a Partition Without Losing Its Data?
https://askleo.com/96521
Are Password Managers Safe?
https://askleo.com/5555
============ 6-5-2020 email links ===========
making and reading PDF documents...without using Adobe Acrobat.
https://fossbytes.com/best-free-pdf-reader-windows/
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/6-pdf-readers-windows/
http://www.oldversion.com/windows/pdfcreator/
[I use version 1.31 with windows 10....]
Links to getting John's new favorite lightweight browser, used with formatting and pictures turned off so it becomes a text-only browser:
https://www.softpedia.com/get/PORTABLE-SOFTWARE/Internet/Browsers/Portable-Dillo.shtml
Portable D+ Browser is a lightweight web browser developed with an overall simplicity in mind for helping you navigate on the Internet.
Since this is the portable version of the program, it is important to mention that it doesn’t leave any traces in the Windows Registry.
https://sourceforge.net/projects/dillo-win32/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dillo
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Comparison_of_lightweight_web_browsers
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
A lightweight web browser is a web browser that sacrifices some of the features of a mainstream web browser in order to reduce the consumption of system resources, and especially to minimize the memory footprint.
https://dillo.software.informer.com/versions/
dillo versions
A multi-platform graphical web browser known for its speed and small footprint
============ 5-29-2020 email links ===========
If I Do These Things, Will I Be Anonymous?
https://askleo.com/95524
Why that "Unimportant" Account Matters
https://askleo.com/95510
Why Don't People Back Up?
https://askleo.com/3388
Why Password Vault Bugs Make Me Cringe
https://askleo.com/94836
Flash drives do wear out, absolutely.
But exactly when a flash drive will wear out depends on so many things, it's impossible to give a specific answer. All I can say is “It depends.”
I'll give you some guidelines that I'd follow on using a flash drive, were I in your shoes.
Is It Safe to Leave a Flash Drive Plugged In All the Time?
https://askleo.com/4224
Why I Don't Like System Restore
https://askleo.com/5027
Why ANY Two-Factor Is Better than No Two-Factor at All
https://askleo.com/70786
============ 5-22-2020 email links ===========
How to Protect Your Computer from Power Problems
https://askleo.com/4332
Why is Windows Complaining About Unsupported Hardware?
https://askleo.com/94065
Why is the Same File a Different Size in Different Places?
https://askleo.com/93651
How Do I Recover My Facebook Password?
https://askleo.com/4388
How Can I Securely Delete Everything Except the Operating System?
https://askleo.com/4716
How to Protect Your Computer from Natural Disasters
https://askleo.com/4918
Why Am I Being Asked for Additional Verification on Sign-in?
https://askleo.com/92840
Avoiding Tech Support Scams
https://askleo.com/23889
"software download resources"
https://ninite.com
https://portableapps.com/apps
https://alternativeto.net/software/portableappscom
============ 5-14-2020 email links ===========
A couple of Minnetonka Senior Computer Interest Group [MSCIG} members joined our meeting last Tuesday.
I was a 1/2 hour visitor at their Friday zoom meeting. There was a very interesting presentation on Chromebooks, by Gene Olson.
Their meeting minutes, https://mscig.wordpress.com/ from 5-8-2020, have a link to the presentation.
Their very interesting website is maintained by Larry Everett.
Another computer group has a link there, and here is their newsletter with interesting articles links: https://reapnews.wordpress.com/reap-news-april-2020/
"software download resources"
https://ninite.com
https://portableapps.com/apps
https://alternativeto.net/software/portableappscom/
A recovery drive is a USB flash drive from which you boot your computer in order to restore a previously created image, as well as perform a number of other Windows recovery tasks — including reinstalling Windows from scratch.
How to Create a Windows 10 Recovery Drive
https://askleo.com/28233
How To Reinstall Windows Without an Installation Disc
https://askleo.com/90182
How Do I Boot from CD/DVD/USB in Windows 8 & 10?
https://askleo.com/5356
What's the Best Anti-Malware Tool to Keep Me Safe?
https://askleo.com/90237
Why is there so much spam? It's simple, really. Spam works.
Why Is There so Much Spam?
https://askleo.com/2534
How to Move an Office 365 Subscription to Another Machine
https://askleo.com/91121
There are steps you can take to understand much of what is happening at startup and make a few decisions.
What Windows Startup Programs Do I Need?
https://askleo.com/16440
There are many reasons emails with attachments fail to be delivered. There are many reasons email without attachments might not make it.
How to Get Email with Attachments Delivered
https://askleo.com/3545
How Do I Choose a Good Password?
https://askleo.com/5440
How Do Password Vaults Enter Passwords?
https://askleo.com/91936
Are My Skype Calls Recorded?
https://askleo.com/6364
If you delete a file from your hard drive, the file is simply not present in future backups.
Are Deleted Files also Deleted from Backups?
https://askleo.com/6404
============ 5-8-2020 email links ===========
Are HTTPS Connections Really Safe?
https://askleo.com/2421
How to Keep Information on a Shared Computer Private
https://askleo.com/2963
1 in 10 people will download and open an attachment attached to phishing email or spam. And the average time between a phishing email being sent and the first victim taking the bait? Twenty-two seconds.
What the heck is it about email attachments that makes them so darned irresistible?
What Is It About Attachments?
https://askleo.com/18718
How Do I Fix Windows Update?
https://askleo.com/21798
There's a common misconception that it's easy to trace an IP address to the computer to which it's assigned, and be able to identify the computer's location.
It's certainly not easy, and depending on who you are, it may not even be possible.
How To Trace an IP Address: Myth Versus Reality
https://askleo.com/85436
What Can a Technician with Remote Access Do?
https://askleo.com/85111
How to Find Software Support
https://askleo.com/85099
Should I Partition My Hard Disk?
https://askleo.com/4319
The question is: will the result work?
Most of time, the answer is no.
Restoring an Image Backup from One Computer to Another
https://askleo.com/4751
How to Repair a Computer that Only Blue Screens
https://askleo.com/84517
How To Keep Using Windows 7 Safely After Support Ends
https://askleo.com/84512
Is Online Banking Safe?
https://askleo.com/3690
============ 5-1-2020 email links ===========
How to Protect Your Cloud Storage and Backups from Ransomware
https://askleo.com/88362
Why Are Pictures Not Showing in Email?
https://askleo.com/2075
What's the Difference Between a Sandbox and a Virtual Machine?
https://askleo.com/5040
Two-Factor Authentication Keeps the Hackers Out
https://askleo.com/16401
Can My ISP Monitor My Internet Usage?
https://askleo.com/3004
UEFI is a replacement for the original BIOS that's been running computers for almost a quarter of a century. UEFI allows manufacturers to take advantage of the security capabilities of the machines they produce
Why UEFI?
https://askleo.com/23705
Why is Windows 10 Using More and More RAM?
https://askleo.com/87665
Why Does Legitimate Email from PayPal Instruct Me to Click a Link?
https://askleo.com/6811
https://askleo.com/why_is_my_machine_slowing_down/
Why Can't I Talk to a Real Person?
https://askleo.com/31060
How to Choose Good Security Questions
https://askleo.com/4624
Is My Hard Disk About to Die?
https://askleo.com/89234
How Do I Change My Email Address?
https://askleo.com/2178
============ 3-16-2020 email links ===========
Alternatives to Skype
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skype
https://alternativeto.net/software/skype/
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/skype-alternatives-windows/
https://www.slant.co/topics/952/~best-skype-alternatives
https://www.techradar.com/news/the-best-free-skype-alternatives
https://www.chanty.com/blog/skype-alternatives/
https://medium.com/@messageio/top-10-skype-for-business-alternatives-for-2019-and-beyond-c8eaf429f1a5
https://skype.en.softonic.com/windows/alternatives
https://www.ionos.com/digitalguide/online-marketing/social-media/skype-alternatives/
https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/columnist/2020/03/02/private-web-browsing-firefox-keep-your-internet-provider-dark/4908754002/
Your internet provider knows where you've been. How to keep your browsing more private
By Rob Pegoraro Special for USA TODAY 030220
If you use Firefox, your web browsing habits will become a bit more mysterious to your internet provider.
Mozilla, the non-profit developer of the Firefox web browser, will make this happen by switching U.S. desktop Firefox users to an encrypted form of the directory assistance behind all internet navigation, as announced in a post last week.
This change involves the Domain Name Service, which lets you get anywhere online by translating your request for a site into the numeric Internet Protocol, or IP, address matching the computer that will deliver the web page in question.
With traditional internet providers, “DNS” sends these queries without the encryption protecting most email and web browsing. So your provider could know the domain names you wanted to visit, as could an eavesdropper online.<snip>
https://www.askvg.com/set-explorer-view-as-default-for-my-computer-and-other-folder-windows-in-windows-xp/
Set Explorer View as Default for My Computer and Other Folder Windows in Windows XP When you open My Computer or any other folder in Windows XP, it shows the Common Tasks in left side as default view.
When you open Windows Explorer, it shows Folder list in left side as default view.
Many people like me find Explorer view more convenient and useful rather than the common tasks pane. So here is a small trick which can be used to set "Explorer" view as default in My Computer and all folder windows. So whenever you'll open My Computer or any
folder, it'll show Folder list just like Windows Explorer instead of the common tasks in left side.[using regedit] <snip>
============ 3-7-2020 email links ===========
Here's three websites for finding music on the web, that you can listen to offline.
http://tela.sugarmegs.org/alpha/g.html
http://www.jimmyr.com/
https://archive.org/details/unlockedrecordings
https://www.lifewire.com/how-to-wipe-a-hard-drive-2624527
How to Wipe a Hard Drive
Wipe a computer hard drive clean with these steps
By Tim Fisher November 08, 2019
To wipe a hard drive means to completely erase the drive of all its information. Deleting everything does not wipe a hard drive and formatting does not usually wipe a hard drive. You'll need to take an extra step to wipe the hard drive so the data cannot be
easily reconstructed later.
When you format a hard drive or delete a partition, you're usually only deleting the file system, making the data invisible, or no longer actively indexed, but not gone. A file recovery program or special hardware often recovers the information.
If you want to make sure that your private information is gone forever, you'll need to wipe the hard drive using special software.<snip>
https://windowsreport.com/too-many-background-processes-windows-10/
How to fix too many background processes in Windows 10 [EASY STEPS]
by Matthew Adams June 28, 2018
[ignore the ad at the start of the article] Does your Windows 10 Task Manager list loads of background processes? If so, you might need to reduce background processes to free up system resources for desktop software.
As background processes hog RAM, cutting them back will probably speed up your laptop or desktop at least a little.
Background processes are typically Microsoft and third-party software services listed on the Services window. Thus, reducing background processes is more a matter of terminating software services.
However, they can also be startup programs and system monitors. As such, there are a few ways that you can fix too many background processes in Windows 10.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/657959/how-to-add-or-remove-autocorrect-entries-in-word/
How to Add or Remove AutoCorrect Entries in Word
By MARSHALL GUNNELL MARCH 3, 2020
Whether you want to add new autocorrect entries to Word or just do a little housekeeping and remove some vocab that’s no longer relevant, you can do so in just a few easy steps. Here’s how.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/539829/how-to-transfer-any-ebook-to-kindle-using-calibre/
How to Transfer Any eBook to Kindle Using Calibre By KHAMOSH PATHAK MARCH 4, 2020 Amazon Kindle offers a great library of eBooks that you can read on your Kindle device. But sometimes, the book you want isn’t available on the Kindle Store. Here’s how you can
transfer any eBook to your Kindle using Calibre.
How to Set Up Calibre on Your Computer
We’ll be using the free and open-source eBook management app Calibre. It’s available on Windows, Mac, and Linux. The app is filled with pro-level features but is also easy to use if you want to do something simple like manage your eBook library or transfer
eBooks between devices.
The best part about Calibre is that it takes care of converting formats. You don’t need to worry about downloading files in the MOBI format (which is Amazon Kindle’s default eBook format). Even if you have eBooks in the open ePub format, Calibre will convert
the eBook for you before transferring it to your Kindle (as long as you’re using a DRM-free eBook).
Go to Calibre’s website to download the app. After you’ve installed it, the Calibre Welcome Wizard will guide you through the setup process.<snip>
http://www.clamwin.com/
ClamWin is a Free Antivirus program for Microsoft Windows 10 / 8 / 7 / Vista / XP / Me / 2000 / 98 and Windows Server 2012, 2008 and 2003.
ClamWin Free Antivirus is used by more than 600,000 users worldwide on a daily basis. It comes with an easy installer and open source code. You may download and use it absolutely free of charge. It features:
High detection rates for viruses and spyware; Scanning Scheduler; Automatic downloads of regularly updated Virus Database.
Standalone virus scanner and right-click menu integration to Microsoft Windows Explorer; Addin to Microsoft Outlook to remove virus-infected attachments automatically.
The latest version of Clamwin Free Antivirus is 0.99.4 Please note that ClamWin Free Antivirus does not include an on-access real-time scanner. You need to manually scan a file in order to detect a virus or spyware.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/563906/how-to-spot-a-text-message-scam/
How to Spot a Text Message Scam
By TIM BROOKES MARCH 4, 2020
The average person these days is savvy enough to spot an email scam, which is why scammers have turned to text messages. Smishing (phishing via SMS) is on the rise, but here’s how you can avoid falling prey to it.
What Is a Text Message Scam?
The tactics of a text message scam are virtually identical to those used in a standard email phishing scam. “Phishing” is when someone acts like a representative of a legitimate business or institution to steal personal information, like your credit card details,
bank account information, or social security number.
It normally starts with an email that seems legitimate. Within the body of the email, there’s a link to an “official” website that’s designed to trick you into giving away your login credentials, personal details, or money. The website is usually indistinguishable
from the actual company’s, including the branding.
“Smishing” (a portmanteau of SMS and phishing) works almost identically. The scammer sends a text message with a link to potential victims. Normally, the message invites you to verify your account details, make a payment, or claim a prize.<snip>
============ 2-28-2020 email links ===========
What are my Hotmail and Outlook.com Account Recovery Options?
As longtime readers know, I get a lot of reports of Hotmail account theft and compromise. As Hotmail has transitioned to Outlook.com, so, to, have the questions. Every day there are reports of everything from simple password loss to email being sent “From” your email address to attempts to scam your contacts.
Depending on exactly what's happened, the available remedies may be simple, difficult, or completely impossible: your account and everything in it might be lost forever.
I'll review the various scenarios and direct you to related articles on Ask Leo! that cover the options for each.
https://askleo.com/4445
Open-Shell: Regain Your Start Menu in Windows and Much More
The Start menu in Windows 8 was its most strikingly different feature. While it was tamed down a little in Windows 10, it's still quite startling if you're upgrading from, say, Windows 7.
Unfortunately, that tiled Start screen leaves many with a very negative first impression — a first impression that goes on to color their entire Windows experience.
It doesn't have to be that way.
Open-Shell (formerly Classic Shell) is free software that gives you your favorite Start menu back, as well as restoring and adding functionality to Windows Explorer.
https://askleo.com/6217
How to Avoid Ransomware
How can I prevent this new risk of criminals encrypting files on my hard drive and then demanding a ransom to unlock the data? Is having a router and software firewall enough?
In other words, how do you avoid ransomware?
Let's look at ransomware — software used to hold your data hostage until you pay up — and how best to protect yourself.
Spoiler alert: you already know the answer.
https://askleo.com/6232
What is the System Idle Process and Why Is It Using Most of the CPU?
This is a great example of things we geeks take for granted that aren't always obvious to the rest of the world.
I mean, really, a process that regularly takes up 99% of your CPU's resources must be a bad thing, right?
Nope, not at all. Just the opposite, in fact.
https://askleo.com/3322
How To Reduce Your Frustration with Technology
When your favorite operating system, software program, or online service gets updated, it can take some getting used to. What was once familiar may now require learning new ways to get your tasks done.
I get frustrated when this happens…
…but not for the reasons you might think.
https://askleo.com/85022
“Never attribute to malice that which is adequately explained by stupidity.”
That pithy statement is referred to as “Hanlon's Razor“.
It keeps coming to mind as I hear from people who are absolutely convinced that malice is at play in whatever they're experiencing. That's rarely the case.
https://askleo.com/83944
============ 2-21-2020 email links ===========
https://www.howtogeek.com/656920/how-to-loop-a-powerpoint-presentation/
How to Loop a PowerPoint Presentation
By MARSHALL GUNNELL FEBRUARY 20, 2020
Slideshows are sometimes used to display images at events, such as weddings or trade shows. Whatever the occasion might be, you’ll want to loop your PowerPoint presentation so your guests aren’t staring at a blank screen. Here’s how it’s done.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/657634/how-to-get-free-internet-at-home-and-in-public/
How to Get Free Internet (at Home and In Public)
By CHRIS HOFFMAN FEBRUARY 20, 2020
Free internet access is all around us. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to find a free connection at home or when you’re out. Even if you don’t have a computer, your local public library likely has you covered.
Out and About: Public (and Business) Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi hotspots are commonplace in urban areas. But, even if you’re on a road trip, you’ll probably drive past many businesses that offer free Wi-Fi.
Some cities offer public Wi-Fi networks, which may be available in parks and other public attractions. This is more common in bigger cities than smaller ones, however.
Many businesses offer free Wi-Fi hotspots. Coffee shops like Starbucks and other smaller independent cafes are famous for it, but it doesn’t stop there. Fast-food restaurants like McDonald’s and stores like Walmart and Target offer free Wi-Fi, too. Wi-Fi isn’t available at every single store, but is available at many of them.
These are just examples of big chains that offer free Wi-Fi. Many other chains offer free Wi-Fi, too. Free Wi-Fi is also common in many smaller businesses, including coffee shops, bars, and restaurants.
We call these Wi-Fi hotspots “free,” but you’re generally expected to buy something when you visit a business with free Wi-Fi. Still, if you need to grab a quick coffee or buy something at the store, you can get some free Wi-Fi while you do it.
There are some risks to using public Wi-Fi, but it’s much safer than it used to be.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/366860/not-just-books-all-the-free-digital-stuff-your-local-library-might-offer/
Not Just Books: All the Free Digital Stuff Your Local Library Might Offer
By JUSTIN POT SEPTEMBER 22, 2018
You might think of libraries as old fashioned, or irrelevant in the age of the internet. You’d be wrong.
Modern libraries offer books, yes, but they also provide internet access to people who can’t afford it, along with a bunch of excellent digital resources. Many libraries offer ebooks, audiobooks, streaming video, and even access to paywalled newspapers.
All of these services are free to you, regardless of your income level, if you have a library card. Here are five digital services your local library might offer. You might be surprised.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/186842/6-ways-to-use-microsoft-office-for-free/
6 Ways to Use Microsoft Office For Free
By CHRIS HOFFMAN JULY 29, 2016
Microsoft Office costs money, except when it doesn’t. From a hidden 60 day free trial that doesn’t require payment details to web apps and mobile apps, there are many ways to get Office for free.
Office is still one of Microsoft’s big cash cow, so you can’t just download a free full version of Office 2013 and use it forever. But there are ways to use Office without ever spending a dime — if only for a few months.<snip> [also includes info about alternatives to MS Office]
https://www.howtogeek.com/658194/windows-10s-new-update-is-deleting-peoples-files-again/
Windows 10’s New Update Is Deleting People’s Files Again
CHRIS HOFFMAN FEBRUARY 19, 2020
Microsoft released a buggy security update for Windows 10 last week. Some Windows users report all the files on their desktop have been deleted. Here’s everything you need to know, including how to fix the bug and get your files back.
Thankfully, those files aren’t actually deleted. The update just moved them to another user account’s folder. This is better than the time Microsoft actually deleted people’s files with the October 2018 Update.
Why the Bug Appears to Delete Files
Some people report that their desktop files are “deleted” after installing the update. Their taskbars and Start menus are also reset to the default settings.
However, it appears those files weren’t actually deleted and are still present on your PC. You can get them back.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/508895/how-to-troubleshoot-bluetooth-issues-on-windows/
How to Troubleshoot Bluetooth Issues on Windows
By BEN STOCKTON FEBRUARY 18, 2020
Bluetooth gives you the freedom to move without a tether, but it isn’t always the most reliable way to use wireless devices. If you’re having trouble with Bluetooth on your Windows machine, you can follow the steps below to troubleshoot it.
Basic Bluetooth Troubleshooting Steps
While many of these steps might seem obvious, they will fix many of the most common Bluetooth issues on Windows.
Check That Bluetooth Is Turned On
Start by making sure Bluetooth is actually enabled on your Windows PC. Just because the symbol is in the taskbar doesn’t mean your Bluetooth radio is actually turned on.
To check it, click the Windows notification icon on your taskbar in the bottom-right corner of your screen. If you don’t see a “Bluetooth” tile, click the “Expand” button. If the “Bluetooth” tile is grayed-out, your Bluetooth radio is turned off.
Click it to turn it back on—the tile will turn blue to show the change.
Click the "Bluetooth" tile.
You can also head to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth and Other Devices and toggle the “Bluetooth” switch until it turns blue.
Restart Your Bluetooth Radio
If Bluetooth is enabled, switching it off and on again might resolve some underlying issues of which you’re unaware.<snip>
============ 2-14-2020 email links ===========
https://www.howtogeek.com/541489/how-to-change-your-iphone’s-name/
How to Change Your Apple iPhone’s Name
By KHAMOSH PATHAK FEBRUARY 11, 2020
When you first set up your iPhone, Apple gives it a generic, default name. This becomes its identity when you use AirDrop, pair to Bluetooth devices, or connect to a hotspot. If you’d prefer something else, though, you can change your iPhone’s name in iOS.
If you recently reset your phone’s settings, its name might just be “iPhone.” However, there’s an option in the “Settings” app to change your iPhone’s name to anything you want.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/550024/how-to-delete-your-facebook-account/
How to Delete Your Facebook Account
By BRADY GAVIN FEBRUARY 11, 2020
Facebook has long been known to take, store, and sell your data and continuously make you re-evaluate how the social network handles your privacy. Whether you want to take a small break or delete your Facebook account completely, here’s how.
What’s the Difference Between Deactivation and Deletion?
There are two ways for you to remove your presence from Facebook. You can deactivate your account or delete it entirely. The former allows you to come back and reactivate your account, while the latter is the permanent option—there’s no going back.<snip>
https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/ftc-warns-of-ongoing-scams-using-coronavirus-bait/
FTC Warns of Ongoing Scams Using Coronavirus Bait
By Sergiu Gatlan February 11, 2020
The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) warns about ongoing scam campaigns that make use of the current Coronavirus global scale health crisis to bait potential targets from the United States via phishing emails, text messages, and social media.<snip>
Coronavirus scams and malicious attacks
"Scammers are taking advantage of fears surrounding the Coronavirus," the FTC says. "They’re setting up websites to sell bogus products, and using fake emails, texts, and social media posts as a ruse to take your money and get your personal information.
"The emails and posts may be promoting awareness and prevention tips, and fake information about cases in your neighborhood.
"They also may be asking you to donate to victims, offering advice on unproven treatments, or contain malicious email attachments."<snip>
https://seniorplanet.org/news/2020/02/05/making-ipads-more-age-friendly
Making iPads More Age-Friendly
By Ilze Duarte February 5, 2020
<snip> when I started teaching iPad Basics, I soon saw that using the iPad were difficult for our students, most of whom are in their eighties, for two main reasons:
Visual acuity: Some of my students had trouble seeing options on the camera and email apps because the words and icons appear too small and faint for them to see clearly.
Manual dexterity: Several students had trouble using finger motions to swipe and tap the screen or press the “Home” button. As a result, they often opened the wrong app and ended up on an unexpected screen. Sometimes they pushed the “Home” button too long and were startled by Siri.
I started looking for ways our students could have an easier time with iPads.
Here’s what I found:<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/232791/pups-explained-what-is-a-potentially-unwanted-program/
PUPs Explained: What is a “Potentially Unwanted Program”?
By CHRIS HOFFMAN NOVEMBER 4, 2015
Antimalware programs like Malwarebytes pop up warnings when they detect “potentially unwanted programs” you might want to remove. People call PUPs many other names, including “adware” and “crapware.” You almost certainly don’t want these programs on your computer, but they’re categorized differently for legal reasons.
Malware is a type of malicious software that infects your computer without your permission. “Potentially unwanted programs” often arrive bundled with other software and often have a EULA you probably clicked right through. PUP developers can argue their programs aren’t malware.<snip>
============ 2-7-2020 email links ===========
https://www.howtogeek.com/201354/ninite-is-the-only-safe-place-to-get-windows-freeware/
Ninite is the Only Safe Place to Get Windows Freeware
CHRIS HOFFMAN NOVEMBER 18, 2014
Ninite is a free tool that automatically downloads, installs, and updates various Windows programs for you, skipping past the evil toolbar offers. For Windows users, Ninite is arguably the only really safe place to get freeware.
This application is far more than a tool for tech support people to easily set up PCs. It’s a place you can get safe Windows freeware without trawling the usual download sites full of harmful garbage.
The Only Safe Place, Really?
Of course, safe freeware is available elsewhere online. But there’s no real trustworthy, centralized source of the stuff. Download sites are uniformly terrible these days — even good old SourceForge is now bundling junkware.<snip>
https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/your-brand-new-windows-10-pc-really-slow-use-one-trick-speed-it-117741
January 28, 2020 Topic: Technology Blog Brand: The Buzz Tags: Windows 10PCTechnologyLaptopDesktopTask Manager Is Your Brand-New Windows 10 PC Really Slow? Use This One Trick To Speed It Up.
Your computer might be booting up with lots of programs you don't need running. Here is how to stop them from loading.
by Harry J. Kazianis
There is nothing more aggravating than getting a new PC home, unboxing it and discovering a horrifying fact: it is really, really slow. And worse still, it takes forever to boot up.
This happens more than you think. When I worked in the telecom and PC repair industry, I used to hear countless tales of people paying $1000.00 or more on a new PC only to discover it might even feel slower than their old setup from two, three or even five years ago. Even to this day, friends who know of my interest in technology complain to me quite frequently about how their computer takes a long time to boot, is slow using basic programs like Word or Chrome, or they are just disappointed in the computer’s overall performance.
Assuming for a moment the user bought a cheap computer that just can’t deliver the performance that is needed, there is one way I have found over two decades of repairing computers and building them to speed up your PC: reducing all of the programs that turn on when the computer boots.<snip>
https://www.vox.com/open-sourced/2020/2/3/21116801/ads-internet-sites-cookies
How ads follow you around the internet
Hint: It’s why every site asks you to accept cookies.
By Cleo Abram Feb 3, 2020
You’ve seen the pop-ups: “This site uses cookies to improve your experience. Please accept cookies.”
It’s true, cookies do improve your experience. They function as the website’s short-term memory. With each new click you make, cookies help the site identify you as the same person. Imagine every time you add something to your cart and click away, it disappears. Or each time you load a new page on Facebook, you have to log in again. Without cookies, the online world we know today wouldn’t exist.
But that world relies on advertising, which gives three kinds of companies a strong incentive to repurpose cookies to track your online behavior. Brands want to sell products by serving you ads for things you’re likely to buy. Platforms and publishers want to make money by serving those ads when you’re on their site. And middlemen are in the business of ensuring the ads from the brands are delivered to the right people.<snip>
https://www.imdb.com/tv/
Login required for IMDb TV
Sign in with IMDb
Sign in with Amazon
Sign in with Facebook
Sign in with Google
or
Create a New Account
By signing in, you agree to IMDb's Conditions of Use and Privacy Policy.
Benefits of your free IMDb account
IMDb TV
Watch full-length movies, shows, and more for free. [yes, there are commercial breaks...! but lots to choose from...! I don't have anything other than an ordinary amazon account and I was able to start watching "Lawrence of Arabia" on a desktop computer.]
https://www.howtogeek.com/509087/how-to-upgrade-from-windows-7-to-windows-10-for-free/
How to Upgrade to Windows 10 From Windows 7 for Free
By CHRIS HOFFMAN JANUARY 15, 2020
Windows 7 is dead, but you don’t have to pay to upgrade to Windows 10. Microsoft has quietly continued the free upgrade offer for the last few years. You can still upgrade any PC with a genuine Windows 7 or Windows 8 license to Windows 10.
How the Free Upgrade Works
Assuming you’re using a Windows PC with a genuine and activated Windows 7 (or Windows 8) key, you can upgrade to Windows 10 in just a few clicks. Your PC will get a genuine, activated Windows 10 key—just like it worked during Windows 10’s first year when the free upgrade offer was officially being advertised.
You can also upgrade a PC by doing a fresh install of Windows 10, even if it doesn’t have any operating system installed. You just have to provide a valid Windows 7 (or Windows 8) key.
There’s no guarantee this will work forever, but it still worked on January 14, 2020. Microsoft may one day pull the plug and cut off new upgrades. But, for now, you can still upgrade. And, after you do upgrade, your PC gets a valid Windows 10 key that will keep working—even if Microsoft stops allowing new upgrades in the future.<snip>
https://archive.org/details/78rpm [212,381 RESULTS!]
The Great 78 Project! Listen to this collection of 78rpm records and cylinder recordings released in the early 20th century.
These recordings were contributed to the Archive by users through the Open Source Audio collection.
Also the Internet Archive has digitized many.
Artists available here include Ada Jones, Caruso, Eddie Cantor, Edison Concert Band, Harry MacDonough, Len Spencer, Paul Whiteman, and many others.
The Almost Complete 78 RPM Recording Dating Guide by Steven C Barr has good information about the record companies.
https://archive.org/details/78rpm_mcneil
Daniel McNeil Collection [16,641 RESULTS!]
78rpm shellac discs donated from Daniel McNeil to the Archive of Contemporary Music and digitized by George Blood, LP for the Internet Archive.
https://archive.org/details/78klubben
78'er Klubben
A collection of digitized 78 rpm records from the 78'er Klubben in Denmark. [15,332 results!]
https://archive.org/details/georgeblood
78rpm Records Digitized by George Blood, L.P. [165,791 RESULTS!]
Newest uploads! Auto-78-twitter. Through the Great 78 Project the Internet Archive has begun to digitize 78rpm discs for preservation, research, and discovery with the help of George Blood, L.P.. 78s were mostly made from shellac, i.e., beetle resin, and were the brittle predecessors to the LP (microgroove) era.
The digitization project currently focuses on discs that are less likely to be commercially available--or available at all in digital form--particularly focusing on underrepresented artists and genres. Digitization will make this less commonly available music accessible to researchers in a format where it can be manipulated and studied without harming the physical artifacts. We have preserved the often very prominent surface noise and imperfections and included files generated by different sizes and shapes of stylus to facilitate different kinds of analysis.
There’s no way to predict if the digital versions of these 78s will outlast the physical items, so we are preserving both to ensure the survival of these cultural materials for future generations to study and enjoy.
https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2018/09/new-music-modernization-act-has-major-fix-older-recordings-will-belong-public
The New Music Modernization Act Has a Major Fix: Older Recordings Will Belong to the Public, Orphan Recordings Will Be Heard Again BY MITCH STOLTZ SEPTEMBER 19, 2018 Music & Copyright
Update: The revised Music Modernization Act passed by the Senate has been signed into law as the Hatch-Goodlatte Music Modernization Act.
The Senate passed a new version of the Music Modernization Act (MMA) as an amendment to another bill this week, a marked improvement over the version passed by the House of Representatives earlier in the year. This version contains a new compromise amendment that could preserve early sound recordings and increase public access to them.
Until recently, the MMA (formerly known as the CLASSICS Act) was looking like the major record labels’ latest grab for perpetual control over twentieth-century culture. The House of Representatives passed a bill that would have given the major labels—the copyright holders for most recorded music before 1972—broad new rights in those recordings, ones lasting all the way until 2067. Copyright in these pre-1972 recordings, already set to last far longer than even the grossly extended copyright terms that apply to other creative works, would a) grow to include a new right to control public performances like digital streaming; b) be backed by copyright’s draconian penalty regime; and c) be without many of the user protections and limitations that apply to other works.<snip>
https://mymodernmet.com/internet-archive-digitizing-vinyl/
Over 100,000 Vinyl Records Are Being Digitized for Anyone to Listen to Online By Margherita Cole on November 18, 2019 Looking to the past can help foster greater appreciation for a variety of subjects, including music. And as it happens, vinyl records are experiencing a resurgence of appreciation among music lovers today. The large black disks are being recognized both for their sound quality and their value as art objects. While more and more people are flocking to pick up new records, the Internet Archive is actually digging up old ones to preserve the sound recordings for the very first time.<snip>
https://archive.org/details/unlockedrecordings
Unlocked Recordings
Recordings made available under the Music Modernization Act. A reasonable search has been conducted to determine that these items are not commercially available. 1,642 RESULTS; 1971-1050 Use "MHS" in the search field and get 66 album results from Musical Heritage Society! Use "Sonata" and get 101 results! Use "Jazz" and get 176 results! Search comedy and get 38 results!
=========== 1-31-2020 email links ===========
https://askleo.com/how-to-keep-using-windows-7-safely-after-support-ends
How To Keep Using Windows 7 Safely After Support Ends by Leo A. Notenboom
Posted: January 18, 2020 in: Windows 7
Shortlink: https://askleo.com/84512
Yes, it'll be possible to keep using Windows 7 after it's no longer supported. However, doing so safely will depend on you.
I want to keep using Windows 7, but support is ending. Am I screwed?
No, you’re not screwed.
You may very well be able to keep using Windows 7 safely, just as a small number of people continue to use Windows XP to this day.
You simply have to take responsibility for keeping yourself safe — even more than before.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-make-windows-10-feel-more-like-windows-7
How to Make Windows 10 Feel More Like Windows 7 With Windows 7 end-of-life fast approaching, now is a great time to upgrade to Windows 10. For the Windows 7 faithful, here's how to ease into Microsoft's latest OS.
By Whitson Gordon December 30, 2019
Windows 7 is finally riding off into the sunset. On Jan. 14, 2020, Microsoft's Extended Support will cease, meaning you won't get bug fixes or security updates, and Microsoft won't provide tech support for computers running the now-outdated software. So it's pretty critical to upgrade if you want to avoid malware and other issues.
Windows 10 is still available as a free upgrade from Windows 7, but it comes with a few changes and additional features that 7 loyalists may not like. With a bit of tweaking, though, you can make yourself feel at home.
(Note that if you really don't want to upgrade to Windows 10, Windows 8 is still in extended support for a few more years. However, you have to pay for a license, and they're a bit harder to come by. Some of these tweaks may work for 8, but we'll be focusing on Windows 10 for this guide.)<snip> Spruce Up the Start Menu Fix File Explorer Clear Out Cloud Services Tidy Up the Taskbar Log In With a Local Account Liquidate the Lock Screen Un-Bungle Automatic Updates Protect Your Privacy
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-make-the-switch-from-windows-to-linux
How to Make the Switch From Windows to Linux If you don't want to upgrade from Windows 7 or are sick of Windows 10, here's how to finally make the switch to Linux and install apps.
By Whitson Gordon December 27, 2019
Microsoft is finally ending support for Windows 7 in January, meaning you won't get bug fixes or security updates anymore. If you're one of the final Windows 7 holdouts and don't want to get stuck with an unsafe system, you have a choice to make: upgrade to Windows 10 or switch to something else entirely.
If you don't like the direction Microsoft has taken with Windows 10, we understand. It's gotten better (and you can make it feel more like Windows 7 with a few tweaks), but its new approach to Windows as a Service means there will always be more of a focus on embedded advertisements, constant updates, and data collection. If you've been thinking about making the jump to Linux, now is the time.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-delay-windows-10-updates
How to Delay Windows 10 Updates
Are you concerned that the latest and greatest updates to Microsoft's Windows 10 might be a little buggy? Certain versions of the operating system allow you to delay the updates.
By Whitson Gordon July 12, 2019
Windows 10's twice-a-year updates mean more new features, more often. Unfortunately, major updates can also break things. If you'd rather wait until the bugs are squashed, tweak this setting and delay those updates until they've gone through more testing.
Starting with the May 2019 Update (version 1903), Microsoft won't force these updates on you quite as strongly as it once did. Instead of automatically installing big feature updates, you'll see an option in the Windows Update settings to download and install the update at your leisure. <snip> Pause Updates for 7 Days Delay Updates for 365 Days
https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-fix-the-most-annoying-things-in-windows-10
How to Fix the Most Annoying Things in Windows 10 Windows 10 is great, but it has its issues, from unpredictable reboots to Cortana. Here's how to fix some of the more irritating quirks with Microsoft's latest operating system.
By Eric Griffith August 15, 2019
Windows 10 is probably the best edition of Microsoft's venerable operating system. But Redmond has never made an entirely perfect OS. As much as we like Windows 10—and we really do like it a lot—it's got problems. Thankfully, many are easily corrected. Here are the steps you can take to rectify them so the OS doesn't drive you up the Windows wallpaper.<snip> Stop Auto Reboots Prevent Sticky Keys Calm the UAC Down Delete Unused Apps Use a Local Account Use a PIN, Not a Password Skip the Password Login Refresh Instead of Reset Hide or Disable Cortana Send OneDrive to the Grave Access Special Symbols Quick No More Notifications Personalize Quick Actions Cool Your Diagnostics Get Off the Edge
Steve Alexander knows way more than me!
Here's a link to a page with short summaries of good articles to click through to!
http://www.startribune.com/steve-alexander/10644336/
Steve Alexander Columnist/Reporter | Technology
Steve Alexander follows consumer and business technology trends, and writes a weekly question and answer column for consumers.
Copy shortlink: http://strib.mn/1KEMPKl Recent content from Steve Alexander<snip>
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/01/15/technology/personaltech/streaming-media-home-server.html
TECH FIX
We’re Living in a Subscriptions World. Here’s How to Navigate It.
Subscription services like Netflix and Google Drive are convenient, but we can lose control of our content and data. Here’s how to take it back.
By Brian X. Chen Jan. 15, 2020
Nowadays we don’t really buy things. We just subscribe to online services.<snip> This can make some people feel trapped. We could always resort to the obvious old-school methods, like buying discs of music and carrying around thumb drives of our files and documents, but who wants to do that?
Fortunately, there are some approaches to taking control of our media while enjoying the benefits of subscription services. Those steps range from the obvious, like creating local copies of your data, to more advanced methods, like making a personal cloud using an internet-connected storage device that acts like a miniature server.<snip>
============ 1-24-2020 email links ===========
A Tip From Computer Buddy Robert Stryk:
Last month a CPU burned out in one of my computers.
I purchased a used CPU for cheap on Ebay which seemed to work properly but the computer crashed several times and Avira anti-virus gave an error message about a Windows system file not being proper.
While reading through a file folder "Windows 10 Repair" I found a sheet from 12/19/2015 for fixing corrupt system files.
After applying the technique the computer has worked properly.
Technique for repairing and checking Windows 10 System files:
Press CTRL+Shift+ESC to open the Task Manager.
Pull down menu File and choose Run New Task.
Another window opens.
The Task Manager may be closed.
Check box for Create this task with administrative privileges.
Type CMD into the command box.
Do an Enter.
A command-line window will open.
Type in the commands:
dism /online /cleanup-image /restore health
This command will take a long time to finish.
An Internet connection is needed.
It makes a checksum for each system file and compares it to the checksum online for your version of Windows.
If a checksum does not agree then the file is replaced.
Then it deletes files in the system directory which are not system files.
Finally, it checks to make sure your system files make a healthy operating system.
The system may be restarted if a system file cannot be replaced dynamically.
sfc /scannow
This function does a faster (S)ystem (F)ile (C)heck but only gives an OK or bad file present result.
Passing this function verifies that the system has been fixed.
This technique may be an alternative to re-installing the operating system.
https://www.howtogeek.com/526115/what-is-smishing-and-how-do-you-protect-yourself/
What Is Smishing, and How Do You Protect Yourself?
By CHRIS HOFFMAN JANUARY 24, 2020
You’re probably familiar with email-based phishing, where a scammer emails you and tries to extract sensitive information like your credit card details or social security number. “Smishing” is SMS-based phishing—scam text messages designed to trick you.
What Is Smishing?
By now, almost everyone has encountered phishing scams that arrive via spam emails. For example, someone might claim to be from your bank and request you provide account information, social security numbers, or credit card details.
Smishing is just the SMS version of phishing scams. Instead of a scammy email, you get a scammy text message on your smartphone. “SMS” stands for “short message service” and is the technical term for the text messages you receive on your phone.
The new text message package delivery scam is a perfect example of smishing. People are receiving text messages claiming to be from FedEx with a tracking code and a link to “set delivery preferences.”<snip>
============ 1-17-2020 email links ===========
https://www.howtogeek.com/469859/rip-windows-7-were-going-to-miss-you/
RIP Windows 7: We’re Going to Miss You
By CHRIS HOFFMAN JANUARY 13, 2020
More than a decade after its release, Windows 7 support ends on January 14, 2020. Let’s look back at what made Windows 7 so awesome and why it’s a great operating system we’ll remember for the rest of our lives.
A Worthy Upgrade from Windows XP
A Windows 7 desktop with the Control Panel and Windows Explorer open.
Windows 7 arrived on October 22, 2009, eight years after Microsoft released Windows XP. Sure, Windows Vista was released between the two, but many people didn’t upgrade to Windows Vista. Many of us here at How-To Geek didn’t!
Windows XP was a solid operating system in its day. It was the first consumer version of Windows based on the Windows NT core and was vastly more stable than the previous release, Windows ME. But 2001 was a different time than 2009, and Windows XP was getting long in the tooth.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/509175/how-to-secure-your-windows-7-system-in-2020/
How to Secure Your Windows 7 PC in 2020
By CHRIS HOFFMAN JANUARY 16, 2020
Microsoft is no longer supporting Windows 7 with security updates. In other words, Windows 7 is now just like Windows XP—an older operating system that will gradually accumulate unpatched security holes. Here’s how to keep it as secure as possible.
We recommend upgrading to Windows 10. In fact, you can still upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10 for free. But, if you’re sticking with Windows 7 for now, we have some security tips.<snip>
https://www.fadedpage.com/index.php
free eBooks forever
Faded Page is an archive of eBooks that are provided completely free to everyone. The books are produced by volunteers all over the world, and we believe they are amongst the highest quality eBooks anywhere. Everyone has been scanned, run through OCR software, proofed, formatted and assembled extremely carefully, using hundreds of volunteer hours. These books are public domain in Canada (because we follow the Canadian copyright laws), but if you are in another country, you should satisfy yourself that you are not breaking the copyright laws of your own country by downloading them. You are free to do whatever you like with these books, but we hope that mainly...you will enjoy reading them.
https://www.howtogeek.com/509508/how-to-upgrade-from-windows-7-to-linux
How to Upgrade From Windows 7 to Linux
By CHRIS HOFFMAN JANUARY 17, 2020
If you’re still using Windows 7 because you just don’t like Windows 10, that’s understandable. But there’s an alternative upgrade path: You can install Linux on your PC for free, and you’ll have a supported operating system that’s still getting updates.
This is easier than you might think. You can try Linux on your PC before installing it, and you can even install it alongside Windows 7 when you make the leap. Here’s what you need to know.<snip>
============ 1-10-2020 email links ===========
http://m.cnn.com/en/article/h_0ef781d2d3d246c90bf6385f67bfee62
CNN | 1/4/2020 Don't abbreviate 2020. It's for your own good
(CNN) - 2020 is finally here, and it's coming with its own set of challenges.
Not only do we have to break the habit of writing 2019, when we really mean 2020, but the dawn of a new decade also creates a unique opportunity for scammers, says Ira Rheingold, executive director for the National Association of Consumer Advocates.
How exactly, you ask?<snip>
https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/google-url-shortener-alternatives
MARKETING | 6 MIN READ
The 7 Best Link Shorteners to Try Instead of Google URL Shortener Written by Clifford Chi Trying to convince people to click on a long, jumbled link is almost as bad as a door-to-door salesman trying to sell people financial services. Needless to say, if your audience sees a link they perceive to be spammy in one of your social media posts, they’ll do the digital equivalent of slamming the door in your face -- scroll past it
To avoid being perceived as spammy or sloppy when you have a legitimate link to share, check out our list of the seven best link shorteners that’ll clip your links into clean, consistent, and clickable URLs.<snip>
============ 12-13-2019 email links ===========
https://www.howtogeek.com/266072/you-can-still-get-windows-10-for-free-with-a-windows-7-8-or-8.1-key/
You Can Still Get Windows 10 for Free With a Windows 7, 8, or 8.1 Key
By CHRIS HOFFMAN DECEMBER 9, 2019
Microsoft’s free Windows 10 upgrade offer is over–or is it? There’s still a way to activate Windows 10 with a Windows 7, 8, or 8.1 key, in addition to Microsoft’s accessibility offer.
Update: We originally wrote this article in 2016, but this upgrade trick still works in 2019! We tested it in early 2019 and, as the year draws to a close, many readers have told us it still works.
You Can Still Use an Old Key with the Anniversary Update As part of Windows 10’s first November update in 2015, Microsoft changed the Windows 10 installer disc to also accept Windows 7 or 8.1 keys. This allowed users to perform a clean install Windows 10 and enter a valid Windows 7, 8, or 8.1 key during installation. Windows 10 would then report that key to Microsoft’s servers, and Windows 10’s activation servers would give your PC a “digital entitlement” (now a “digital license”) to continue using Windows 10 for free, just as if you had upgraded.
This also works from within Windows 10. Even if you don’t provide a key during the installation process, you can head to Settings > Update & Security > Activation and enter a Windows 7 or 8.1 key here instead of a Windows 10 key. Your PC will receive a digital entitlement.<snip>
https://askleo.com/how-do-i-know-a-web-address-is-safe/
https://askleo.com/why-does-my-facebook-post-show-as-unavailable-to-some-people/
https://askleo.com/my-computers-keep-dying-is-it-me/
https://askleo.com/how-to-back-up-windows-10/
https://askleo.com/internet_safety_7_steps_to_keeping_your_computer_safe_on_the_internet/
https://askleo.com/what-happened-to-truecrypt-and-what-do-i-use-instead/
https://askleo.com/am-i-at-risk-because-i-dont-get-a-new-phone/
Do I Need OneDrive?
Q: Windows 10 keep asking me to set up OneDrive. Is OneDrive really useful and is it needed?
A: Is it needed? No. There are plenty of alternatives if you want cloud storage and features similar to OneDrive.
Or you may elect not to use cloud storage at all.
Is it useful? In my opinion, absolutely.
https://askleo.com/do-i-need-onedrive/
https://askleo.com/two-steps-better-search-results/
https://askleo.com/the-most-searched-for-term-on-the-internet/
https://seniorplanet.org/2019/12/06/top-phone-scams-of-2019
TECHNOLOGY Top Phone Scams of 2019 By Justin Lavelle December 6, 2019
Most people are familiar with phone scams through the occasional local news item that highlights a warning from law enforcement or perhaps the victim’s own sad story about losing their life savings.
The BeenVerified Phone Spam Complaint Monitor sought to analyze these calls at a national level to identify the most common types of phone scams and their associated tactics. The report analyzed more than 200,000 phone complaints sourced directly from customers over a period of 2016 through the first half of this year.
Based on this data, the report has identified the top five phone scams everyone should be aware of in 2019:<snip>
============ 12-6-2019 email links ===========
When you try to print a page, you get a confusing jumble of parts of the page, advertisements that overlap the text that is there, text that is way too large or too small, and pages and pages (and pages and pages) of output for a single, simple page.
How Do I Print An Email or Webpage and Have It Work? https://askleo.com/78051
How Do I Reactivate an Old Email Account?
https://askleo.com/5759
My email program, Thunderbird, thinks your newsletters are a scam. I get an overall message with the email, plus a warning whenever I click on a link. Why Does Thunderbird Think this Message Might Be a Scam?
https://askleo.com/3758
How To Keep an External Hard Drive Useful and Healthy Longer https://askleo.com/78527
Supercookies and Evercookies and No Cookies at All: Resistance Is Futile https://askleo.com/4943
"From" Spoofing: How Spammers Send Email that Looks Like It Came from You https://askleo.com/3370
Why Do Ads Follow Me Around the Internet? https://askleo.com/5670
Will My Old Computer Run Windows 10?
https://askleo.com/79111
============ 11-27-2019 email links ===========
How Do I Password-protect a Flash Drive?
https://askleo.com/3660
Once your machine has been hacked, it's not your machine any more. And yes, that sounds serious, because it absolutely is.
Continue Reading: Which Files Were Affected by a Hack or Malware?
https://askleo.com/77257
Does Technology Isolate or Connect?
https://askleo.com/18781
https://askleo.com/has-a-hacker-really-hacked-my-email-account/
What Can I Disable in Task Manager's Startup List? https://askleo.com/2633
Why Must I Re-enter my Email to Unsubscribe?
https://askleo.com/76661
Can My Mobile Provider Track What I Do Online?
https://askleo.com/76656
Has a Hacker Really Hacked My Email Account?https://askleo.com/65875
https://www.howtogeek.com/howto/windows-7/share-files-and-printers-in-windows-7-with-homegroup/
How to Set Up a Shared Network Printer in Windows 7, 8, or 10
WALTER GLENN AUGUST 19, 2018
Over the years, Windows has gotten much better about how it handles networked printers. But if you want to share a printer over the network, you may still need to do a little legwork to get it all up and running. Here’s how it all works.<snip>
============ 11-22-2019 email links ===========
A tip from the CityOfSLP IT Dept:
The holiday season is upon us and it is prime time for scammers and fraud.
Black Friday Deals, Free Coffee, and another enticing emails will land in your inbox.
Always be cautious of any suspicious emails you receive at work or at home.
It only takes one click on a malicious link or attachment to install hidden malware on your computer.
Key items that indicate it’s a phishing email:
1) The incorrect domain names like menradas.com, droopbox.com, and carbouicoffee.com
2) Call to action emails – ‘you have been hacked’, ‘your account was suspended’, and ‘thank you for your order’.
DO NOT CLICK the link in the email, go to your account (that you have visited before) and investigate the claim there.
============ 11-15-2019 email links ===========
https://www.howtogeek.com/175234/how-to-use-an-antivirus-boot-disc-or-usb-drive-to-ensure-your-computer-is-clean/
How to Use An Antivirus Boot Disc or USB Drive to Ensure Your Computer is Clean By CHRIS HOFFMAN NOVEMBER 9, 2013
If your computer is infected with malware, running an antivirus within Windows may not be enough to remove it. If your computer has a rootkit, the malware may be able to hide itself from your antivirus software.
This is where bootable antivirus solutions come in. They can clean malware from outside the infected Windows system, so the malware won’t be running and interfering with the clean-up process.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/445944/what-to-do-if-your-windows-10-keyboard-or-mouse-arent-working/ What to Do if Your Windows 10 Keyboard or Mouse Aren’t Working
By BEN STOCKTON NOVEMBER 12, 2019 Keyboard and mouse failures aren’t uncommon, especially with regular usage. If your keyboard or mouse has stopped working on your Windows 10 PC, here are a few [4] steps you can follow to resolve the issue.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/445417/how-to-play-unsupported-video-formats-on-windows-10/
How to Play Unsupported Video Formats on Windows 10
By BEN STOCKTON NOVEMBER 7, 2019
Windows apps like Movies & TV and Windows Media Player allow the playback of certain types of video only. If you’re struggling to play unsupported video formats, you’ll need to use a third-party video player or codec or convert the file instead.
If you’re unsure whether Windows supports your video file format, try it first. Open the Movies & TV app or the Windows Media Player and attempt to open the file. If you get a “format is not supported” error, you’ll need to try one of the methods below.<snip>
More links for books to download:
https://www.epubbooks.com/
https://www.fadedpage.com/index.php
============ 11-8-2019 email links ===========
https://www.howtogeek.com/444819/6-ways-to-improve-battery-life-on-windows-laptops/
6 Ways to Improve Battery Life on Windows Laptops
By BEN STOCKTON NOVEMBER 1, 2019
Laptop owners have a critical enemy: a drained battery. Sure, you can plug it in, but only if there’s an outlet nearby. Here are some ways you can improve the battery life of your Windows laptop.
Windows 10 has quite a few tricks you can use to combat the power problem. There’s a power troubleshooting tool that can help you identify problems, while various power-saving settings can reduce power usage when your laptop’s in battery mode.
Battery Saver Mode
The easiest way to make use of Windows 10’s built-in power-saving options is to use Battery Saver mode. It lowers system resources and increases battery life.
This mode automatically activates when your laptop’s battery reaches a low level (usually under 20 percent), although you can customize this setting if you need to.
To check which battery mode your PC is in, click the battery icon in the notifications area of the task bar. A window displays the current battery life percentage, and a slider you can use to switch to another power mode.<snip>
[the other five:] Reduce Screen Brightness; Use Hibernation Instead of Sleep Mode; Find and Disable Battery Draining Apps; Disable Bluetooth and Wi-Fi; Use the Windows 10 Power Troubleshooter.
https://www.howtogeek.com/444807/will-windows-10-update-if-my-computer-is-in-sleep-mode/
Will Windows 10 Update If My Computer Is in Sleep Mode?
By KEVIN PARRISH NOVEMBER 4, 2019
Windows 10 will keep you safe and secure by applying updates automatically. Typically, users schedule “active hours,” so Windows 10 doesn’t install updates at inconvenient times. Will Windows 10 update if a PC is asleep? Technically, no.
Windows 10 Wakes Your Sleeping PC to Update
When your Windows 10 PC goes into sleep mode, it saves the current system state and stores that information into memory. The PC then goes into low-power mode, shutting mostly everything down save for the RAM sticks.
What happens next depends on your PC, its active power profile, and wake timers. The latter is your PC’s “alarm clock” within Windows 10 that pulls it out of sleep.
If you’re on a laptop, wake timers can be disabled while running solely on a battery. That means your laptop definitely won’t wake to update and overheat while stuffed in a bag. Plug the computer in, and it will likely wake only for important scheduled tasks.
Go into the power options where you’ll see three wake timer settings: Disable, Enable, and “Important Wake Timers Only.” System updates are one of many scheduled tasks that fall under that “important” umbrella.
You can also determine which tasks jolt your PC awake using the PowerShell, Event Viewer, and Task Scheduler.<snip>
https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2019/05/28/its-middle-night-do-you-know-who-your-iphone-is-talking/
Consumer Tech Perspective
It’s the middle of the night. Do you know who your iPhone is talking to?
Apple says, “What happens on your iPhone stays on your iPhone.” Our privacy experiment showed 5,400 hidden app trackers guzzled our data — in a single week. While you’re sleeping, your iPhone stays busy.
By Geoffrey A. Fowler Technology columnist May 28, 2019
It’s 3 a.m. Do you know what your iPhone is doing?
Mine has been alarmingly busy. Even though the screen is off and I’m snoring, apps are beaming out lots of information about me to companies I’ve never heard of. Your iPhone probably is doing the same — and Apple could be doing more to stop it.
On a recent Monday night, a dozen marketing companies, research firms and other personal data guzzlers got reports from my iPhone. At 11:43 p.m., a company called Amplitude learned my phone number, email and exact location. At 3:58 a.m., another called Appboy got a digital fingerprint of my phone. At 6:25 a.m., a tracker called Demdex received a way to identify my phone and sent back a list of other trackers to pair up with.<snip>
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/need-to-access-icloud-on-your-android-we-can-help/
ANDROID IPHONE AND IPAD
5 Ways to Access iCloud on Your Android
Christian Cawley January 2, 2019
5 Ways to Access iCloud on Your Android
iCloud is a great way to keep your email, contacts, calendar, tasks, and photos synced across your Apple devices. But what if you decide to switch from an iPhone to an Android phone?
Apple doesn’t always play nice with other ecosystems, but you can access iCloud from your Android with the right apps.<snip>
============ 11-1-2019 email links ===========
https://www.howtogeek.com/443694/how-to-make-using-gmail-better/
How to Make Using Gmail Better
By BRADY GAVIN OCTOBER 30, 2019
Gmail is already a pretty airtight email service without needing any customization. But if you feel like there’s something left to be desired, there are a few hidden features—and Chrome extensions—to make Gmail even better.
Use Keyboard Shortcuts
Keyboard shortcuts are designed to make your life easier by creating key combinations to complete some of the most-used actions within a service. A lot of Google products offer keyboard shortcuts including Google Docs, Sheets, Chrome, and Gmail.
While some of Gmail’s keyboard shortcuts work by default, you need to enable a setting to get full access to them all.
From your Gmail Inbox on the web, click the Settings cog and then select the “Settings” button.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/444725/how-to-customize-your-gmail-address-on-the-fly/
How to Customize Your Gmail Address on the Fly
By BRADY GAVIN OCTOBER 28, 2019
Did you know you can customize your Gmail address and make it easier to read? It can also help you track who sends you messages. We’ll walk you through the process.
Add Periods to Your Email Address
You can place a period (.) between any of the characters in your email address username. Gmail doesn’t acknowledge it as a character in the username; it completely ignores it.
It can be helpful to use this character in long, multiple-word email addresses. It separates the string of characters and makes the address easier to read.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/444168/how-to-troubleshoot-printing-issues-in-microsoft-word/
How to Troubleshoot Printing Issues in Microsoft Word
By MARSHALL GUNNELL OCTOBER 28, 2019
There’s nothing more frustrating than working endless hours on a document only to be greeted with an error message when it’s time to print. Here are a few suggestions to get Word to work with your printer again.
Basic Checks
First, it’s a good idea to do some basic hardware checks to ensure everything is hooked up as it should be.
Here are a few things to check before we look at Word:<snip>
http://m.cnn.com/en/article/h_9386de53dba7605b57ca86a0ec1f68aa
A scam targeting Americans over the phone has resulted in millions of dollars lost to hackers. Don't be the next victim.
October 27, 2019
(CNN) - Pieter Gunst, 34, received what he thought was a credible phone call from his bank. But in a matter of minutes, Gunst realized the call was anything but after he had nearly handed over the keys to his account.
The woman was a scammer, and Gunst was just the latest target in a growing trend that's left thousands of Americans frustrated, broke, and without a clue how to get their money back.
The over-the-phone scheme is a type of phishing scam.
And in the last year, a whopping 26,379 people reported being a victim of some sort of phishing scam. Together they reported nearly $50 million in losses, according to the FBI's 2018 Internet Crime Report.
While the number of reported scams increased slightly from the 25,344 phishing scams reported to the FBI in 2017, the losses skyrocketed by nearly $20 million.
They are not going away anytime soon, as scammers are getting more clever and devious in their phishing attempts. Here's how you can avoid being the next person to fall for one.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/443702/how-to-fix-sound-problems-in-windows-10/
How to Fix Sound Problems in Windows 10
By KEVIN PARRISH OCTOBER 16, 2019
You launch a PC game or stream a movie, but you don’t hear any sound. On the surface, there’s no apparent reason for the lack of audio. This guide shows you how to fix sound problems in Windows 10.
Unfortunately, sound issues can be tricky. Problems could merely reside in third-party software, requiring a patch. Issues could also stem from within Windows 10 itself or the underlying hardware. Possible fixes include installing new drivers, tweaking settings, or even revert to a previous restore point.
This guide begins with the easy steps and moves deeper into Windows 10 if you continue to face audio issues.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/443872/how-windows-10s-reset-this-pc-has-gotten-more-powerful/
How Windows 10’s “Reset This PC” Has Gotten More Powerful
By CHRIS HOFFMAN OCTOBER 18, 2019
The Reset This PC option in Windows 10's boot-up Troubleshooting menu.
The “Reset This PC” feature has been around since Windows 8, but it’s changed a lot since then. Microsoft keeps making it better and better, and it’s easy to miss all the improvements. Cloud Download is just the latest, most visible one.
How “Reset This PC” Works
The Reset This PC feature makes it “almost like you just opened your PC for the first time,” according to Microsoft’s Aaron Lower, a project manager in charge of Recovery at Microsoft, in a Windows Insider webcast. If you’re selling or giving away your PC, you can erase your files and even wipe your drive so your data can’t be recovered. If you’re experiencing a PC problem or just want a clean Windows system, you’ll get that fresh Windows OS.
When resetting your PC, you can choose to either keep your personal files or have them removed from your PC. Either way, Windows will remove your installed programs and give you a fresh operating system.<snip>
============ 10-25-2019 email links ===========
https://troubleshooter.xyz/wiki/fix-the-file-is-too-large-for-the-destination-file-system
Fix The file is too large for the destination file system: If you are getting the error “The file is too large for the destination file system” error when trying to copy a large file with size more than 2 GB to a USB Flash drive or Hard disk which have lot of free space then this means your Flash drive or Hard disk is formatted using FAT32 file system.<snip>
KNOWLEDGE IS POWER “Opting out” is a myth
By Finn Brunton & Helen Nissenbaum October 10, 2019
Consider a day in the life of a fairly ordinary person in a large city in a stable, democratically governed country. They are not in prison or institutionalized, nor are they a dissident or an enemy of the state, yet they live in a condition of permanent and total surveillance unprecedented in its precision and intimacy.
As soon as they leave their apartment, they are on camera: while in the hallway and the elevator of their building, when using the ATM outside their bank, while passing shops and waiting at crosswalks, while in the subway station and on the train—and all that before lunch. A montage of nearly every move of their life in the city outside their apartment could be assembled, and each step accounted for. But that montage would hardly be necessary: Their mobile phone, in the course of its ordinary operation of seeking base stations and antennas to keep them connected as they walk, provides a constant log of their position and movements. Their apps are keeping tabs, too.<snip>
https://potsandpansbyccg.com/2019/10/15/be-wary-of-5g-hardware/
October 15, 2019 Be Wary of 5G Hardware
We’ve now entered the period of 5G competition where the wireless carriers are trying to outdo each other in announcing 5G rollouts. If you believe the announcements, you’d think 5G is soon going to be everywhere. Device manufacturers are joining the fray and are advertising devices that can be used with the early carrier 5G products. Buyers beware – because most of what the cellular companies and the manufacturers are hyping as 5G is not yet 5G. Any first generation hardware you buy today will become quickly obsolete as future 5G upgrades are introduced.
5G Cellular. Cellular carriers are introducing two new spectrum bands – CBRS spectrum and millimeter wave spectrum – as 5G. The actual use of these spectrums is not yet technically 5G because the carriers aren’t yet using much of the 5G specifications. These two specific spectrum bands come with another warning in that they are only being used to produce faster outdoor broadband. Customers who live in places where they can receive the new frequencies, and who compute outdoors might see value in paying extra for the devices and the 5G data plans. Most people are not going to find any value in what these plans offer and should not get sucked into paying for something they can’t get or won’t use.<snip>
https://finance.yahoo.com/news/9-internet-scams-still-falling-2018-190146104.html
9 internet scams we're still falling for in 2018
By David Pogue, Tech Critic Yahoo Finance June 8, 2018
It just never ends. No matter how much publicity these scams get, no matter how many years old the internet is, people still hand over their money to scammers.
It doesn’t matter how old you are; last year, in fact, more consumers age 20 to 29 reported losing money to fraud than the over-70 crowd did.
It doesn’t matter how powerful or educated you are, either. Just ask Hillary Clinton campaign manager John Podesta, who exposed the campaign’s email stash by falling for a phishing scam.
Hackers stole $172 billion from consumers in 20 countries in 2017, according to Norton; 2.7 million Americans reported some form of fraud to the Federal Trade Commission. (Top states: Florida, Georgia, and Nevada.) Most internet scams are fundamentally the same. They prey on one of two human weaknesses:<snip>
https://www.nytimes.com/2019/10/04/smarter-living/10-tips-internet-privacy-crowdwise.html
10 Tips to Avoid Leaving Tracks Around the Internet
By David Pogue Published Oct. 4, 2019
Google and Facebook collect information about us and then sell that data to advertisers. Websites deposit invisible “cookies” onto our computers and then record where we go online. Even our own government has been known to track us.
When it comes to digital privacy, it’s easy to feel hopeless. We’re mere mortals! We’re minuscule molecules in their machines! What power do we possibly have to fight back?
That was the question I posed to you, dear readers, in the previous “Crowdwise.”
Many of you responded with valuable but frequently repeated suggestions: Use a program that memorizes your passwords, and make every password different. Install an ad blocker in your web browser, like uBlock Origin. Read up on the latest internet scams. If you must use Facebook, visit its Privacy Settings page and limit its freedom to target ads to you.
What I sought, though, was non-obvious ideas.
It turns out that “digital privacy” means different things to different people.<snip>
https://hbr.org/2013/03/techs-best-feature-the-off-swi
TECHNOLOGY Tech’s Best Feature: The Off Switch
By Tiffany Shlain MARCH 01, 2013
<snip> I first became aware of the importance of disconnecting in 2008, when my father, Leonard Shlain, was diagnosed with brain cancer. Some days he would have only one good hour, and I didn’t want to be distracted when I was with him, so I’d turn off my cell phone.
Soon after, inspired by a National Day of Unplugging (which commences this year at sundown on March 1st), Ken and I decided to institute something we had tried in fits and starts since we met: unplugging for one full day every week. What we call our “technology shabbats.”<snip> <snip> There is one other benefit to unplugging each week: By sundown on Saturday, we can’t wait to get back online. We’re hungry for connection. We appreciate technology all over again. We marvel anew at our ability to put every thought and emotion into action by clicking, calling, and linking.
Still, every week we remember the most important thing about technology: It has an off switch.
https://www.howtogeek.com/443386/how-to-remove-your-pin-and-other-sign-in-options-from-windows-10/
How to Remove Your PIN and Other Sign-In Options from Windows 10
By KEVIN PARRISH OCTOBER 23, 2019
Windows 10 boasts a suite of security features to keep your PC safe. But what if you need to remove a password or security key? This guide shows how to remove your PIN and other sign-in options from Windows 10.
This guide tackles PINs, face recognition, fingerprint scans, and security keys. Because you cannot delete a password, this guide also walks you through deleting your account from a Windows 10 PC. You can always create another account that doesn’t have an associated password.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/443769/how-to-save-a-website-as-a-pdf-on-iphone-and-ipad/
How to Save a Website as a PDF on iPhone and iPad
By KHAMOSH PATHAK OCTOBER 22, 2019
It’s handy to save websites and articles as PDFs so you can read them later. Here’s how you can quickly generate a PDF on your iPhone or iPad, [if you are using iOS13] and then save it with a service like Pocket.<snip>
https://seniorplanet.org/john-leland-on-successful-aging/
JOHN LELAND ON SUCCESSFUL AGING 10/18/2019
What’s the secret to living a fuller, more content life? For John Leland, an award-winning New York Times reporter and author of the New York Times bestseller “Happiness Is a Choice You Make: Lessons from a Year among the Oldest Old,” the answer came from an unexpected place: from the lives of six people age 85 and up. He expected them to educate him in the hardships of old age. Instead, they taught him lessons of resilience, gratitude, purpose and perspective that apply to people of any age. All had lost something – spouses, mobility, their keen eyesight or hearing. But none had lost everything. And they defined their lives by the things they could still do, not by what they had lost. Sociologists call this the “paradox of aging”: as much as our culture obsesses over youth, older people are more content with their lives than young adults. They’re less stressed, less afraid of death, better able to manage whatever difficulties come their way – even when their lives are very, very hard. The good news about old age is that there is good news. And the better news is that we can all learn from our elders’ wisdom and experience. Whatever your age, it’s not too late to learn to think like an old person.<snip>
https://medium.com/swlh/richmazzola-how-do-cellphones-work-a-story-of-physics-towers-and-the-government-8369aa7226b1
How Do Cellphones Work? A Story of Physics, Towers, and the Government By Rich Mazzola By the end of 2019 over 83% of Americans will own an internet connected smartphone¹. While there aren’t any official numbers, it’s safe to say that only a fraction of those smartphone owners actually know how their device works. It’s hard to describe how you’re connected to the internet, or why you’re able to hold a conversation on your cell phone while you’re walking around. This is all for good reason. It’s insanely complicated.
<snip>To investigate ‘how a smartphone works’ you can segment based on the mechanism your phone uses to do all the things we’ve come to expect e.g. make calls, download apps and browse the internet. The scope of the mechanisms covered here are:
Cellular data usage
WiFi data usage
Emerging technologies (5G + CBRS)<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/444427/how-to-make-youtube-videos-loop-continuously/
How to Make YouTube Videos Loop Continuously
By BRADY GAVIN OCTOBER 24, 2019
Should you need a YouTube video on a continuous loop, a few methods can help you keep repeating a video without having to start it over manually. Here’s how to do it.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/444384/six-ways-to-bookmark-your-favorite-folders-in-windows-10/
6 Ways to Bookmark Your Favorite Folders in Windows 10
By BEN STOCKTON OCTOBER 24, 2019
If you organize your Windows 10 folders now, you won’t struggle to find your most important files later. You can bookmark your favorite folders in Windows for easy access. Here are a few ways you can do it.<snip>
============ 10-11-2019 email links ===========
https://www.howtogeek.com/howto/linux/create-a-bootable-ubuntu-usb-flash-drive-the-easy-way/
How to Create a Bootable Linux USB Flash Drive, the Easy Way
By LOWELL HEDDINGS JULY 3, 2017
A bootable USB drive is the best way to install or try Linux. But most Linux distributions—like Ubuntu—only offer an ISO disc image file for download. You’ll need a third-party tool to turn that ISO file into a bootable USB drive.
You’ll need to download an ISO file to do this—we’re going to use Ubuntu in our example, but this should work for quite a few different Linux distributions. Head to Ubuntu’s download page and download the version of Ubuntu you want—either the stable “Long Term Service” release or the current release. If you’re not sure which one to download, we recommend the LTS release.
Below, we’ll show you how to turn this ISO into a bootable flash drive on both Windows or an existing Linux system.
NOTE: This process creates a traditional live USB drive. When you run it, none of your chances (like installed programs or created files) will be saved for the next time you run it. For installing Linux to your PC, this is fine—but if you want a live USB that keeps your changes so you can use it regularly on different computers, you’ll want to check out these instructions instead.<snip>
https://potsandpansbyccg.com/2019/09/30/8159
September 30, 2019
Happy Birthday Wi-Fi
This year is the twentieth anniversary of the formation of the Wi-Fi Alliance and the launch of commercial Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi has become so ubiquitous in our lives that it’s hard to believe that it’s only been twenty years since all broadband connections came with wires.<snip>
https://www.nytimes.com/2019/10/02/technology/personaltech/google-data-self-destruct-privacy.html
Tech Fix
How to Set Your Google Data to Self-Destruct Google has now given us an option to set search and location data to automatically disappear after a certain time. We should all use it.
By Brian X. Chen Published Oct. 2, 2019
Last year you may have been addicted to Beyoncé. But nowadays you’re more into Lizzo. You also once went through a phase of being obsessed with houseplants, but have lately gotten into collecting ballpoint pens.
People’s tastes and interests change. So why should our Google data histories be eternal?
For years, Google has kept a record of our internet searches by default. The company hoards that data so it can build detailed profiles on us, which helps it make personalized recommendations for content but also lets marketers better target us with ads. While there have been tools we can use to manually purge our Google search histories, few of us remember to do so.
So I’m recommending that we all try Google’s new privacy tools. In May, the company introduced an option that lets us automatically delete data related to our Google searches, requests made with its virtual assistant and our location history.
On Wednesday, Google followed up by expanding the auto-delete ability to YouTube. In the coming weeks, it will begin rolling out a new private mode for when you’re navigating to a destination with its Google Maps app, which could come in handy if you’re going somewhere you want to keep secret, like a therapist’s office.
“All of this work is in service of having a great user experience,” Eric Miraglia, Google’s data protection officer, said about the new privacy features. “Part of that experience is, how does the user feel about the control they have?”
How do we best use Google’s new privacy tools? The company gave me a demonstration of the newest controls this week, and I tested the tools that it released earlier this year. Here’s what to know about them.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/228570/10-quick-ways-to-speed-up-a-slow-windows-pc/
10 Quick Ways to Speed Up a Slow PC Running Windows 7, 8, or 10
By CHRIS HOFFMAN FEBRUARY 9, 2017
Windows PCs don’t have to slow down over time. Whether your PC has gradually become slower or it suddenly ground to a halt a few minutes ago, there could be quite a few reasons for that slowness.
As with all PC issues, don’t be afraid to give your computer a reboot if something’s not working properly. This can fix quite a few problems and is faster than attempting to manually troubleshoot and fix the problem yourself.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/441321/does-your-computer-have-a-virus-heres-how-to-check/
Does Your Computer Have a Virus? Here’s How to Check
By CHRIS HOFFMAN OCTOBER 7, 2019
Windows computers sometimes do get viruses and other malware, but not every slow or misbehaving PC is infected by malware. Here’s how to check if you actually have a virus—and whether that suspicious process is dangerous or not.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/220033/how-to-make-your-windows-10-pc-boot-faster/
How to Make Your Windows 10 PC Boot Faster
By CHRIS HOFFMAN JULY 28, 2016
Windows 10 offers a startup application manager that practically any Windows user can use. It’s integrated into the operating system and simple to understand — it even shows which programs are slowing down startup the most.
Windows computers tend to boot slower over time as you install more desktop programs, many of which add themselves to the startup process and automatically start each time you boot your computer. The new Startup manager helps you trim things down.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/164876/how-to-use-safe-mode-to-fix-your-windows-pc-and-when-you-should/
How to Use Safe Mode to Fix Your Windows PC (and When You Should)
By CHRIS HOFFMAN MARCH 20, 2019
Windows’ Safe Mode is an essential tool. On computers infected with malware or crashing because of buggy drivers, Safe Mode may be the only way to start the computer.
Safe Mode starts your PC with a minimal set of drivers and services. No third-party software or drivers get loaded, and even the built-in Windows stuff is limited to just what’s necessary. Safe Mode is a great way to remove problem-causing software—like malware—without that software getting in the way. It also provides an environment where you may find it easier to roll back drivers, and use certain troubleshooting tools.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/132428/everything-you-need-to-know-about-refreshing-and-resetting-your-windows-8-pc/
Everything You Need to Know About “Reset This PC” in Windows 8 and 10
By CHRIS HOFFMAN JULY 3, 2017
Windows 10 includes a “Reset your PC” option that quickly restores Windows to its factory default configuration. It’s faster and more convenient than reinstalling Windows from scratch or using your manufacturer’s recovery partition.
Windows 8 had separate “Refresh your PC” and “Reset your PC” options. Refresh kept all your files and personalization settings, but set your PC settings to the default and uninstalled your desktop apps. Reset removed everything, including your files–like doing a complete Windows reinstall from scratch.
On Windows 10, things are a bit simpler. The only option is “Reset your PC”, but during the process, you’ll get to choose whether to keep your personal files or not.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/173222/10-useful-features-hidden-in-vlc-the-swiss-army-knife-of-media-players/
10 Useful Features Hidden in VLC, The Swiss Army Knife of Media Players
By CHRIS HOFFMAN JULY 11, 2017
There’s a good chance you already use the VLC media player. But VLC isn’t just a media player — it’s a complete Swiss Army Knife for digital videos and music, filled with useful and fun features you haven’t found yet.
If you’re just using VLC to play back local media files, you’re only using a tiny fraction of VLC’s capabilities. There’s so much more you can do with VLC, whether you’re using it on Windows, Mac, or Linux.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/266072/you-can-still-get-windows-10-for-free-with-a-windows-7-8-or-8.1-key/
You Can Still Get Windows 10 for Free With a Windows 7, 8, or 8.1 Key
By CHRIS HOFFMAN SEPTEMBER 3, 2019
Microsoft’s free Windows 10 upgrade offer is over–or is it? There’s still a way to activate Windows 10 with a Windows 7, 8, or 8.1 key, in addition to Microsoft’s accessibility offer.
Update: We originally wrote this article in 2016, but this upgrade trick still works in 2019!<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/441765/how-to-copy-and-backup-files-to-external-storage-on-iphone-and-ipad/
How to Copy and Back Up Files To External Storage on iPhone and iPad By KHAMOSH PATHAK OCTOBER 7, 2019 Thanks to iOS 13 and iPadOS 13, it’s finally easy to deal with external storage on the iPhone and iPad. You can connect USB flash drives and SD cards to copy and back up your data. Here’s how you do it.
How to Connect External Storage to iPhone or iPad If you use a 2018 iPad Pro with a USB-C port and have a USB-C flash drive, all you have to do is plug in the flash drive.
If you have any other iPad or iPhone, though, you’ll need an adapter. You can use a Lightning to USB adapter to connect any USB flash drive, and this also works for a USB SD card reader.
Alternatively, you can purchase Apple’s standalone Lightning to SD Card Camera Reader.
Support for external hard or solid-state drives is iffy, at best. However, you can connect USB-C-based external drives directly to your iPad Pro via the USB-C port. Drives that require more power—especially those with spinning hard drives—require an external power source.
If you connect a drive and see a message that says, “This accessory requires too much power,” you’ll have to use a connector with a power pass-through. You can get these to work with iPhones and older iPads with a Lightning to USB 3 Camera Adapter, which lets you power your device (and the drive) via a Lightning port.<snip>
https://seniorplanet.org/boost-brain-health/
BOOST BRAIN HEALTH
10/02/2019 by Rebecca Rushing BSN, RN
Brain health is the ability to remember, learn, play and maintain an active mind. According to the American Heart Association, failing brain health is a public health epidemic that could be more serious than we think. Consider these statistics:
The brain begins showing signs of cognitive decline as a person enters their 20s.
3 out of 5 Americans will develop a brain disease in their lifetime.
By 2030, the total cost of Alzheimer’s, dementia, and stroke is expected to exceed $1 trillion.
The good news is, we can still develop and change our brains no matter how old we are!<snip>
============ 10-7-2019 email links ===========
https://askleo.com/avoiding-tech-support-scams/
Avoiding Tech Support Scams
by Leo A. Notenboom
What do you do when you suddenly find yourself on the phone with a scammer? Step One: Be Skeptical!
[look for the transcript button if you want to read, not listen to the advice]
Need to email a big file? Try Firefox Send
https://send.firefox.com/
No need to signup if your file(s) are less than 1GB per transmission.
If you do sign up, the limit goes up to 2.5GB per upload.
Your files are uploaded to the cloud and disappear after X downloads or X minutes/hours/days.
You receive a link you can email to the recipient.<snip>
https://tcpc.com/newsletters
Twin Cities PC Users' Group, Inc.
Has regular meetings, a very helpful newsletter archive and website.
It's another helpful group for anyone looking for helpful groups.
https://www.computerhope.com/issues/ch000179.htm
My computer is running slow, what steps can I do to fix it?
Updated: 06/07/2019 by Computer Hope
Slow computer
Below are steps for Microsoft Windows users that can help speed up the computer or at least determine why the computer is running slow.
============ 9-27-2019 email links ===========
http://www.321download.com/LastFreeware/index.html
http://www.321download.com/LastFreeware/alphabetically.html
my favorite place to find Kerio Personal Firewall.
http://www.oldversion.com/
Pick a software title... to downgrade to the version you love! Because newer is not always better!
https://www.oldapps.com/
similar to oldversion.com
https://www.snapfiles.com/freeware/
Browse individual categories or click on the section header for an overview with detailed category descriptions and a list of popular and top rated programs within that section.
[This advisory applies to every software install process. Click carefully!]
FYI: This program offers to install promotional or third party software. Installation of these components is optional but you should pay attention during setup to avoid installing unwanted software.
http://www.tucows.com/windows
Windows downloads Browse through more than 30,000 downloads compatible with Windows 7, Vista, XP, 2008 Server, 2003 Server, NT, ME, 2k and even Windows 95 and 98! You'll find software to keep your PC running in top shape and free of viruses and spyware in addition to plenty of applications for running your business, keeping in touch with friends and family as well as games, themes, wallpapers and much more. Select a category or use the software search to get started.
https://www.filehorse.com/
Fast & Simple Way to Download Free Software for Windows [includes trial versions]
mostly new software
https://www.filecroco.com/
mostly new software
https://winworldpc.com/library/applications
alpha order of apps, 16 pages
http://www.freeware-guide.com/
offers direct links to the software websites for info and download
https://www.freewarefiles.com/
can sort any software list by the following categories: Date | Title | Downloads | Size | Rating
http://vetusware.com/
the biggest free abandonware downloads collection in the universe. Haec sententia nil esse. - Juliano Vetus, site founder
https://freewarehome.com/
FreewareHome is a collection of links & information for freeware Windows programs for PCs
Commercial programs like Office or AutoCAD are not only expensive but probably overkill for most people. We aim to find the best, feature-rich, totally free programs for you. Many of them are actually even better than their expensive commercial counterparts, FreewareHome is the one place you really can find a free lunch!
====== Links from 9-20-2019 email ===================
https://www.wired.com/story/how-wi-fi-almost-didnt-happen
How Wi-Fi Almost Didn’t Happen
JEFF ABRAMOWITZ BUSINESS 09.12.2019
Opinion: Launched 20 years ago this week, Wi-Fi nearly hit a dead spot.
We all love Wi-Fi, except when we can’t connect. We take for granted being able to have wireless access at home and the office, on airplanes, in cafés around the globe, and if we'd be so lucky, floating on the International Space Station.
But what if Wi-Fi hadn’t happened? It almost didn’t, at least not in the way we recognize it today.
Wi-Fi officially launched 20 years ago, on September 15, 1999. You may be imagining a flashy launch event featuring Christina Aguilera (“The wireless genie is out of the bottle!”), or a breathless headline that booted the feared Y2K bug from the front pages. Instead, imagine eight technophiles in an Atlanta Convention Center briefing room waiting to “Superman” their jackets to expose polo shirts bearing the made-up word Wi-Fi before a crowd of 60.
There was no lack of enthusiasm in that room; 17 tech companies big and small had committed to back Wi-Fi, including Apple, Dell, and Nokia. But even the most fervent evangelists (myself included) never imagined the kind of global economic, social, and cultural impact Wi-Fi would have.<snip>
https://www.cordcuttersnews.com/cable-tv-is-trying-to-scare-cord-cutters-with-data-caps-we-explain-why-you-shouldnt-worry
Cable TV is Trying to Scare Cord Cutters With Data Caps – We Explain Why You Shouldn’t Worry
by Luke Bouma on September 14, 2019 in All News, News
One of the biggest questions we get from new cord cutters is, ‘can you live with a data cap and still cut the cord? Or are cable TV companies trying to make it impossible to cut the cord by imposing data caps?’
This question has become more popular as many cable companies have been trying to scare customers canceling TV with fears of huge overages if they hit their data cap while streaming.
That raised a lot of questions with our readers about their ability to stream what they want with a 1TB data cap. So we are going to do our best to answer that question today.
Note: We are rounding the 1TB data cap down to 1,000 for easy math and to have a buffer for any potential overages.
Video On-Demand Data Usage
For an HD video, Netflix uses up to 3GB per hour of video. (That is not 3GB per show because most shows on Netflix are under an hour long.) Using 3GB an hour, you could watch just over 333 hours of video on Netflix in HD. That works out to be just over 11 hours of HD video on Netflix every day in a 30-day month.<snip>
====== Links from 9-13-2019 email ===================
https://www.huffpost.com/entry/airbnb-wi-fi-dangers_l_5ceebbcfe4b0f078035e3ed4
Why You Shouldn't Use The Wi-Fi In Your Airbnb, According To A Hacker
Even the smart TV and printer pose security risks.
By Casey Bond 05/30/2019
Is the Wi-Fi in your Airbnb rental safe? Not always.
Most Airbnb users book stays with no major issues. But staying in a stranger’s house means you inevitably make yourself vulnerable to some risks, some of which have included scams, hidden cameras and discrimination. It can be hard to let your guard down while renting an Airbnb ― and you shouldn’t, even if everything seems to check out.
That’s because there could be another danger lurking in your rental that’s harder to detect: the Wi-Fi.
Beware The Wi-Fi
You probably know to use extra caution when using public Wi-Fi networks such as those at your local coffee shop or the airport. Even when a password is required to access the network, you’re at risk of a number of different kinds of attacks, according to Jason Glassberg, an “ethical hacker” and co-founder of Casaba Security.
A common one, he said, is the “evil twin” attack, which involves setting up a fraudulent Wi-Fi access point that looks legitimate. Users enter their credentials to log on or are directed to a malicious site that looks like the one they intended to visit but is actually secretly capturing their information. Similarly, a “man in the middle” attack allows hackers to essentially eavesdrop on web traffic and gain access to sensitive information the users believe is being shared privately.
“The same worries and warnings you would give someone about using public Wi-Fi should really be the same when you’re going into an Airbnb, because someone can set up the very same infrastructure in the rental property,” Glassberg said.<snip>
https://www.huffpost.com/entry/millennials-scammed-more-than-seniors_l_5d77f62fe4b0752102345620
MONEY
Millennials Are Scammed Twice As Often As Seniors. Here's Why.
Frank Abagnale of "Catch Me If You Can" fame explains why younger adults are so susceptible to fraud.
By Casey Bond 09/11/2019
When it comes to fraud, the stereotype of the bumbling, overly trusting senior who hands their savings over to a Nigerian prince is just that: a stereotype.
Millennials are a generation of digital natives who grew up with computers, smart devices and the internet in their homes and schools. But that doesn’t mean younger millennials are any smarter when it comes to avoiding web or phone scams. In fact, 20-somethings are nearly three times as likely to fall victim to a scam as seniors, according to a 2018 report by the Federal Trade Commission.
How is this possible? Younger adults have a few habits that make them more susceptible to fraud, according to Frank Abagnale Jr., a con-man-turned-security-consultant who is the subject of Steven Spielberg’s 2002 box office hit “Catch Me If You Can” and author of the new book “Scam Me If You Can.”
A Generation Of Oversharers
“In doing the five years of research for this book, I was shocked to find that actually, millennials get scammed more often than seniors,” Abagnale said.<snip>
https://askleo.com/is-there-a-real-alternative-to-windows
Is There a Real Alternative to Windows? by Leo A. Notenboom
Only Windows is Windows. There are alternatives, but whether they're right for you depends on you.
Is there a real, complete and reliable equivalent to Windows? Other than that Apple stuff.
That’s a question I received not long ago. Particularly given the publicity around some of the issues with Windows 10 and its updates, I think many frustrated users are wondering if there isn’t something else they could or should be using.
The answer is my most common: it depends.
Summary
•There are three major alternatives to Windows: Mac OS X, Linux, and Chrome.
•Whether or not any of them would work for you depends entirely on how you use your computer.
•Less common alternatives include the mobile devices you may already be using.
•Any alternative demands time and effort to learn to use it.
Windows alternatives
Windows 10There is no exact replacement for Microsoft Windows. Whether any alternative will work for you depends on how that alternative’s characteristics compare to your needs.
The most commonly considered alternatives include Apple’s OS X on Macs, Linux, and the Google Chrome operating systems. They each have significant pitfalls, depending on what you expect.<snip>
====== Links from 9-6-2019 email ===================
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/send-text-messages-using-email/
PRODUCTIVITY
How to Send Text Messages Using Email
by Nancy Messieh March 6, 2018
There are quite a few messaging apps that you can use from the comfort of your computer, but if you’re looking for a quick and easy way to send text messages without whipping out your phone, most US carriers make that pretty easy too.
All you have to do is send the message to an email address using an SMS Gateway. Each carrier has an SMS gateway specific to their service, which will convert the email into a text message for you.
So what do you need to send that message? You need to know what carrier the recipient is on, then look up their corresponding email address below.<snip>
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/transfer-files-android-pc/
How to Transfer Files From Android to PC: 7 Methods
by Christian Cawley February 18, 2019
Need to learn how to transfer files from Android to PC? It’s easy with the right tricks.
You have a photo on your Android phone or tablet, and you need to get it onto your PC. But how do you do this?
As it turns out, you have several options, such as a USB cable, Bluetooth, and cloud sync. Alternatively, you might use an app like AirDroid or Pushbullet. Perhaps you’ll resort to emailing the file or photo.
Put simply, transferring files from Android to a Windows PC isn’t difficult. Here’s everything you need to know about moving files from your Android phone to your PC.<snip>
====== Links from 8-30-2019 email ===================
https://www.howtogeek.com/437885/how-to-take-a-photo-on-a-chromebook/
How to Take a Photo on a Chromebook
By BRADY GAVIN AUGUST 29, 2019
Your Chromebook comes equipped with a built-in camera you can use to snap pictures to post to your social media accounts or share with friends and family. Here’s how to take a photo on a Chromebook.
How to Take a Photo
Google recently rolled out Chrome OS 76 stable, which came with a bunch of new features such as Virtual Desks and a redesign of the Camera app. Google moved the position of the shutter button and camera mode, added a landscape mode, and implemented some much-needed improvements to shutter speed.
For this tutorial, we will use the stock Chromebook camera app, though you can use any camera app from the Play Store that you prefer.
First, open the Camera app on your Chromebook. You’ll find it under the launcher menu. Tap the “Search” button on the keyboard and search for “Camera.” Alternatively, click the “All Apps” button and look for the camera icon.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/438642/how-to-check-if-your-chromecast-is-still-getting-updates/
How to Check if Your Chromecast Is Still Getting Updates
By CHRIS HOFFMAN AUGUST 28, 2019
Google launched the first-generation Chromecast back in 2013, and it’s still getting security updates—but that’s it. As Google confirmed to 9To5Google, this original Chromecast won’t get new features. It may be time to upgrade if you have an old one.
Checking whether you have a first-generation Chromecast is simple. You can either look at the Chromecast hardware itself or pull up the Google Home app on your smartphone.
Check Your Chromecast’s Generation By Looking at It
If you don’t remember off the top of your head, just peek behind your TV and see which one is plugged into your TV’s HDMI port.
The first generation Chromecast was more of a stick with a rounded end, while second generation and newer Chromecasts are a full circle.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/337087/so-you-just-got-an-amazon-fire-tablet-now-what/
So You Just Got an Amazon Fire Tablet. Now What?
By CAMERON SUMMERSON DECEMBER 19, 2018
Hey, congratulations on your new tablet! The Amazon Fire Tablet series offers, without a doubt, some of the best bang for your buck devices you can get in today’s tablet market. You’re going to love it.
As solid as it is out of the box, there are a few things you can do to make that bad boy even better. So let’s go to it.
Install the Google Play Store
, the Fire Tablet line ships with the Amazon Appstore. The Appstore isn’t necessarily bad, but it’s definitely a few steps behind the Google Play Store in terms of content and updates. But since Fire OS is based off of Android, you can easily sideload the Google Play Store for full access to everything Google has to offer.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/115297/how-to-root-your-android-why-you-might-want-to/
How to Root Your Android Phone with SuperSU and TWRP
WHITSON GORDON AND CHRIS HOFFMAN JUNE 20, 2017
If you really want to dig into the Android system, you may find that some apps require root access. Rooting has become less necessary over the years, but it’s still useful if you want to run certain types of apps. Here’s the most widely supported method for rooting your device, and why you might want to.
This post was originally published in 2012. It has since been updated to focus on the most widely supported rooting method instead of a collection of one-click apps.
What Is Root, Anyway?
Android is based on Linux. On Linux and other UNIX-like operating systems, the root user is equivalent to the Administrator user on Windows. The root user has access to the entire operating system, and can do anything. By default, you don’t have root access to your own Android device, and certain apps won’t function without root access. Like other modern mobile operating systems, Android confines apps to restrictive security sandboxes for security purposes.
The root user account always exists in Android; there’s just no built-in way to access it. “Rooting” is the act of gaining access to this root user account. This is often compared to jailbreaking an iPhone or iPad, but rooting and jailbreaking are fairly different.
Technical aspects aside, root access allows you to do a lot of useful things. With root, you can remove bloatware that came on your phone, run a firewall, enable tethering even if your carrier is blocking it, manually back up your system, and use a variety of other tweaks that require low-level system access.
Apps that require root aren’t hard to find–they’re available in Google Play, but they won’t work until you gain root access. Some apps have features that only work on a rooted device.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/270382/how-to-make-the-amazon-fire-tablet-more-like-stock-android/
How to Make the $50 Amazon Fire Tablet More Like Stock Android (Without Rooting)
WHITSON GORDON DECEMBER 21, 2017
Amazon’s $50 Fire Tablet may be one of the best deals in tech—especially when it occasionally goes on sale for $35. It may feel limited, but with a few tweaks—no rooting necessary—you can turn it (and its larger, slightly more expensive brethren) into an almost-stock Android tablet perfect for reading, watching, and even light gaming.
Don’t get us wrong: Amazon’s 7″ tablet is hardly the best tablet on the market. Its display is pretty low resolution, it isn’t very powerful, and it only has 8GB of storage (though you can add a 64GB microSD card very cheaply). But for $50—$35 if you’re patient—it’s an absolutely killer deal, especially if you’re just using it for media consumption. In fact, it’s such a great deal, I feel guilty for having spent hundreds of dollars on an iPad when the Fire does most of what I need pretty well.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/130611/how-to-factory-reset-your-android-phone-or-tablet-when-it-wont-boot/
How to Factory Reset Your Android Phone or Tablet When It Won’t Boot
By CHRIS HOFFMAN JULY 28, 2016
Safe mode can help you troubleshoot your Android, but sometimes you’ll need to wipe everything and restore your device to its factory state. But if you can’t perform a normal factory reset–say, if your phone won’t boot properly–you can do it through Android’s recovery environment.
Ensure you have any important data backed up before doing a reset. This includes your Google Authenticator credentials, which will be lost during the reset. Disable two-factor authentication on your accounts first or you’ll experience some trouble afterwards.
If safe mode doesn’t help fix your device, you can perform a hard reset by booting into a special recovery mode. First, ensure your device is fully shut down.
Press and hold the correct keys to boot the device into recovery mode. This will vary from device to device. Here are some examples:<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/437476/how-to-blur-an-image-in-powerpoint/
How to Blur an Image in PowerPoint
MARSHALL GUNNELL AUGUST 26, 2019
If your background image is drawing unnecessary attention, or you need to blur part of an image that contains sensitive information, you can do so directly in PowerPoint. We’ll show you how.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/437942/all-the-useless-windows-10-features-microsoft-should-remove/
All the Useless Windows 10 Features Microsoft Should Remove
CHRIS HOFFMAN AUGUST 26, 2019
It’s 2019, and Windows 10 has too many useless and annoying features. Don’t get me wrong: Windows 10 has gotten better and, overall, I love it compared to Windows 8. But some things just need to go.<snip> article contains shortcuts to tips on how to get rid of a bunch!
====== Links from 8-23-2019 email ===================
https://slate.com/technology/2019/08/printing-facebook-user-data-scrapbook.html
Why I Printed My Facebook
It was thousands of pages’ worth of data—and it was illuminating.
By KATIE DAY GOOD AUG 19, 2019
In my attic lies a big box of scrapbooks and diaries chronicling my preteen through early college years, from the mid-1990s to early 2000s, in minute and sometimes cringe-inducing detail. The books are fat, their pages stuffed with doodles, notes passed in class, pictures clipped from magazines, and ticket stubs from multiple viewings of Titanic. But the box also speaks volumes with what’s not in it: namely, any books dated after 2004. That was the year Facebook launched, and my journaling habits tanked.<snip>
How to delete Temporary Internet Files from Internet Explorer:
1. Start > Control Panel > Internet Options.
2. Select the General tab, and then select Delete under Browsing history.
3. Select Delete all > Yes > OK.
How to delete Temporary Internet Files from Google Chrome:
1. Click Tools (3 vertical dots).
2. Settings > Search Engine > Advanced > (Under Privacy and security) select Clear Browsing Data > Basic
3. Select all three check boxes. (“Browsing History”, “Cookies and other site data”, and “Cached images and files”.)
4. Click Clear data .
https://techboomers.com/youtube-to-mp3-converters-free-quality-music
Home » Online Entertainment » Music and Audiobooks » How to Get Free Music with YouTube to mp3 How to Get Free Quality Music with YouTube to mp3 Last Updated: January 7, 2019 If you’re a music lover, you’ll know it can be expensive buying songs or albums, or paying for music streaming services. When you want to listen to music for free, YouTube.com is a great place to go. However, watching YouTube videos to listen to music requires an Internet connection, so it’s not so great to listen to music on the go.
Luckily, there are websites you can use to convert the audio from a YouTube video to mp3. We’re going to tell you everything you need to know, including:
What is YouTube to mp3 and how does it help you get free music legally?
6 best websites for finding YouTube to mp3 converters First, we’ll explain the basics – what is a YouTube to mp3 converter and how can you use them to get music for free What is YouTube to mp3 and how does it help you get free music legally?
YouTube to mp3 converters are free websites that allow you to download the audio from a YouTube video as an mp3 file. If you can find your favorite songs in a video on YouTube, you can easily download them for free online with an online YouTube converter. YouTube music download sites are very useful.
You can use YouTube mp3 conversion websites to download any YouTube video’s audio as an mp3. If you use it to download one of your own videos, or to download a royalty-free song or one with a Creative Commons License, using these websites is legal. The legality of it depends on what music you download.<snip>
https://www.technologyreview.com/s/614076/next-generation-entrepreneurs-senior-planet
Meet the next generation of entrepreneurs. They’re all over 65.
Inside Senior Planet, the tech-savviest retirement community on earth.
by Lauren Smiley Aug 12, 2019
“All these microaggressions people talk about?” Tom Kamber says. “Just imagine what it’s like when you’re 75.”
People knock you out of the way on the street, he says. They attend to the younger guy standing next to you first. Then the job interviews—he’s getting revved up now—when the recruiters ask your age. “Completely illegal question! It’s like asking, ‘Are you really black?’ ‘You seem gay—are you gay?’” Or if the recruiter is sly, trying to hide just how illegal this is, they’ll ask for your graduation year—“It’s such bullshit.”
Kamber is someone you don’t interview as much as witness. He talks at 1.5 times podcast speed. Blink and you’ve missed three sentences. See his bald head and the Art Deco tattoo snaking down his biceps, or watch him salsa at the intergenerational dance party he put on at a New York club, and he seems the world’s least likely director of a senior center. But listen in. Tom Kamber is getting into ageism—“the last ism,” as he calls it—and Tom Kamber has a lot to say about that.
“When you live in an ageist society, your dreams, which might seem totally normal to you, are a threat to other people,” he warns. He’s speaking not only in rapid-fire sentences, but in paragraphs now. “People are trying to hold you back—because they’re afraid of their own aging. Or because you’re competing with them economically. Because they don’t want to have to introduce somebody else’s ideas into their young-person culture,” Kamber continues, his holy roller sermon coming to its emotional peak. “People are a pain in the ass!”
That’s why Kamber created Senior Planet, a tech-themed community center that preps seniors to hack their way through a world conspiring to keep them sidelined. The glass door reads “Aging with Attitude.” With its sleek grays and wood tables, it rivals the WeWork next door in the Chelsea district of Manhattan.<snip>
https://seniorplanet.org/guides/tech-tips-for-seniors/tech-tips-for-seniors-articles-resources/
https://seniorplanet.org/guides/tech-tips-for-seniors/
====== Links from 8-16-2019 email ===================
https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2019/07/23/never-googlers-web-users-take-ultimate-step-guard-their-data/
Technology
Never-Googlers: Web users take the ultimate step to guard their data
As reports surface regarding how the online advertising giant tracks consumers, some try to reclaim their online footsteps.
Glenn Harvey for The Washington Post
By Greg Bensinger July 23
SAN FRANCISCO — In the small South Carolina town of Newberry, Bob’s Red Mill muesli cereal is hard to come by.
That presents a challenge for resident Gregory Kelly, who can’t get enough of the stuff. He’d rather not truck the 40 miles or so to Columbia to stock up on it, but he’s also loath to buy it from the company’s website, which he says is riddled with tracking software from Google.
His privacy being paramount, Kelly grudgingly chooses to head into Columbia every so often, rather than cede his data to Google or turn over his purchase history to another online retailer. “I’m just not sure why Google needs to know what breakfast cereal I eat,” the 51-year-old said.<snip>
https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2019/aug/04/innocence-lost-what-did-you-do-before-the-internet
Innocence lost: what did you do before the internet?
The Observer Internet
People born in the late 1970s are the last to have grown up without the internet. Social scientists call them the Last of the Innocents. Leah McLaren ponders a time when our attention was allowed to wander
By Leah McLaren
Sun 4 Aug 2019
An illustration of the back of a woman, lying on a hillside, looking up at the sky, flowers either side of her
Yawning gap: days of nothing are a ‘soon-to-be lost plane of human experience’. Illustration: Nathalie Lees
In moments of digital anxiety I find myself thinking of my father’s desk. Dad was a travelling furniture salesman in the 1980s, a job that served him well in the years before globalisation hobbled the Canadian manufacturing sector. He was out on the road a lot, but when he worked from home he sat in his office, a small windowless study dominated by a large teak desk. There wasn’t much on it – synthetic upholstery swatches, a mug of pens, a lamp, a phone, an ashtray. And yet every day Dad spent hours there, making notes, smoking Craven “A”s, drinking coffee and yakking affably to small-town retailers about shipments of sectional sofas and dinette sets. This is what I find so amazing. That my father – like most other professionals of his generation and generations before him – was able to earn a salary and support our family with little more than a phone and a stack of papers. Just thinking of his desk, the emptiness of it, induces in me a strange disorientation and loneliness. How did he sit there all day, I wonder, without the internet to keep him company?<snip>
====== Links from 8-9-2019 email ===================
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flat-panel_display
Opinion
THE PRIVACY PROJECT
Google’s 4,000-Word Privacy Policy Is a Secret History of the Internet By Charlie Warzel and Ash Ngu https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2019/07/10/opinion/google-privacy-policy.html
The late 1990s was a simpler time for Google. The nascent company was merely a search engine, and Gmail, Android and YouTube were but glimmers in the startup’s eye. Google’s first privacy policy reflected that simplicity. It was short and earnest, a quaint artifact of a different time in Silicon Valley, when Google offered 600 words to explain how it was collecting and using personal information.
That version of the internet (and Google) is gone. Over the past 20 years, that same privacy policy has been rewritten into a sprawling 4,000-word explanation of the company’s data practices.
This evolution, across two decades and 30 versions, is the story of the internet’s transformation through the eyes of one of its most crucial entities. The web is now terribly complex, and Google has a privacy policy to match.<snip>
What is "Quick Removal" and How is it Changing in Windows 10?
Microsoft recently made an announcement that as of Windows 10 version 1809, the default for the “Quick removal” setting would be changed.
The pragmatic result is that you should see or need to use “Safely Remove Hardware” less often. Let's look at why that is.
https://askleo.com/75677
Is an Up-to-Date Browser Secure on an Out-of-Date OS?
As support comes to an end for Windows 7, many people are concerned about the security ramifications of continuing to browse the internet with it.
As Windows XP users discovered, many browsers continued to support XP long after its end-of-support date.
Were they secure?
To answer that, we need to dispel a common myth.
https://askleo.com/75689
On Confidence and Technology
This week, you'll notice that The Ask Leo! Newsletter has been renamed to Confident Computing: Technology in Terms You Understand (by Ask Leo!).
I want to take this opportunity to talk about why I've elected to be a little more explicit about my focus on using technology with confidence.
It starts with what is now almost 15 years of questions.
https://askleo.com/77259
How Do I Reset Windows 10?
Sometimes, when faced with an assortment of Windows problems, starting over is the most pragmatic alternative.
Windows 10 includes the ability to reinstall (or “reset”) Windows to its just-installed condition.
There are definitely a few caveats to be aware of, however.
https://askleo.com/76081
Getting Microsoft Office for Free, Sort of Is Microsoft Office free in Windows 10?
No.
But then again, yes it is, sort of.
In fact, there's a version that's free for anyone on any version of Windows — or indeed, almost any operating system.
https://askleo.com/76224
Recovering an Existing Online Account Password How can I find out my current Gmail password?
Your current password?
You may not be able to.
You may be able to use the account-recovery techniques offered by Google and Gmail to set a new password, but Google will not tell you your current password.
If you're very lucky, however, you may be able to discover it somewhere else: your browser's saved passwords.
https://askleo.com/76238
====== Links from 8-2-2019 email ===================
https://askleo.com/why_is_my_machine_slowing_down/
Why Is My Machine Slowing Down?
Slow machines represent one of the largest sources of questions to Ask Leo!
Perhaps when you purchased it, your computer ran like a champ and quickly did everything you needed. Now ... well, not so much. Perhaps it takes forever to boot. Or starting applications is slower than molasses. Or maybe the machine just acts sluggish when you try to use it for just about anything.
Regardless of the specifics, the underlying theme is simple: it's slow.
There are many, many reasons that a machine could slow down.
I'll list a few of the most common reasons here, along with some advice on what steps to take.<snip>
https://askleo.com/can_i_stop_or_unsend_an_email_i_sent_by_mistake/
Can I Stop or ‘Un-send' an Email I Sent by Mistake?
I wrote an email from my Yahoo email account and sent it to the wrong email address in Europe. Is it any way I can retrieve the email I sent to the wrong email address and delete it before the wrong recipient can read my email?
No.
There are a couple of exceptions (one of which isn't really an exception at all), but the answer you need to keep in mind and always remember is simply no.
Once email has been sent, it has been sent. It cannot be "unsent".
I'll describe why that is and what those so-called "exceptions" are all about.<snip>
https://askleo.com/how_do_i_use_an_open_wifi_hotspot_safely/
How Do I Use an Open Wi-Fi Hotspot Safely?
I've returned to the same coffee shop where I was a few months ago, where I noticed my email had been hijacked/hacked. This time, I'm using my phone, but the last time, when I noticed the hack, I was using my computer and doing email over an open-internet, free Wi-Fi network.
Do you think that could be the source of the problem or just a coincidence? I'm still afraid to do email from here.
It definitely could have been. Unfortunately, it's hard to say for sure; it could have been something else unrelated.
As we can't really diagnose the past, let's look ahead instead.
It can be absolutely safe to send and receive email from a coffee shop or any other location that provides unsecured or "open" Wi-Fi. In fact, I do it all the time.
But to ensure your safety, you do have to follow some very important practices.<snip>
https://askleo.com/is_the_cloud_dangerous/
Is the Cloud Dangerous?
One of the comments I received on my article on lessons learned from a fairly public online hacking was very concise:
"That's why the cloud is dangerous."
I think a lot of people feel that to varying degrees.
I disagree strongly.
I also think believing the cloud is dangerous prevents you from taking advantage of the things it can do for you — things like protecting your data...
... as well as a number of things you're already doing, and have been doing for years.<snip>
====== Links from 7-29-2019 email ===================
https://www.theverge.com/2019/7/3/20680903/email-pixel-trackers-how-to-stop-images-automatic-download
How to stop your emails from being tracked Pixel trackers can hide in your email images
By Barbara Krasnoff Jul 3, 2019
All of those obnoxious marketing emails that crowd your inbox aren’t just pushing a product. They’re also tracking whether you’ve opened the email, when you opened it, and where you were at the time by using software like MailChimp to embed tracking software into the message.
How does it work? A single tracking pixel is embedded into the email, usually (but not always) hidden within an image or a link. When the email is opened, code within the pixel sends the info back to the company’s server.
There have been some attempts to restrict the amount of information that can be transmitted this way. For example, since 2014, Google has served all images through its own proxy servers, which could hide your location from at least some tracking applications. And extensions such as Ugly Mail and PixelBlock have been developed to block trackers on Chrome and Firefox.
There is also a simple basic step you can take to avoid trackers: stop your email from automatically loading images since images are where the majority of these pixels hide. You won’t be able to avoid all of the trackers that can hide in your email this way, but you will stop many of them.
Here’s how to do it in the major desktop and mobile email apps:<snip>
https://www.nytimes.com/2019/06/24/technology/e-commerce-dark-patterns-psychology.html
How E-Commerce Sites Manipulate You Into Buying Things You May Not Want “Alexandra from Anaheim” was among the shoppers that visitors to ThredUp were told had recently bought items on the site. But she didn’t exist.
By Jennifer Valentino-DeVries June 24, 2019
When potential customers visit the online resale store ThredUp, messages on the screen regularly tell them just how much other users of the site are saving.
“Alexandra from Anaheim just saved $222 on her order” says one message next to an image of a bright, multicolored dress. It’s a common technique on shopping websites, intended to capitalize on people’s desire to fit in with others and to create a “fear of missing out.”
But “Alexandra from Anaheim” did not buy the dress. She does not exist. Instead, the website’s code pulled combinations from a preprogrammed list of names, locations and items and presented them as actual recent purchases.
The fake messages are an example of “dark patterns,” devious online techniques that manipulate users into doing things they might not otherwise choose to. They are the digital version of timeworn tactics used to influence consumer behavior, like impulse purchases placed near cash registers, or bait-and-switch ads for used cars.<snip>
https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2019/06/24/how-stop-companies-selling-your-data
Business
How to stop companies from selling your data Helpful tips for opting out of data sharing by banks, schools and data broker companies Privacy experts warn against filling out online surveys if you want to prevent your personal data from being shared with data brokers. There are a variety of other ways to opt out of having your data collected and combined by data brokers but no single solution, experts say.
By Douglas MacMillan June 24 2019
The second you fill out an online survey, purchase a new home or subscribe to a magazine, your information may be scooped up by a data company and sold to a subterranean market for personal information on millions of people. These data brokers are building profiles about you, using thousands of pieces of information such as your age, income, race, ethnicity and interests and helping marketers use this data to send you targeted ads.
[Data brokers are selling your secrets - here's how states are trying to stop them] Unlike the way we interact with Facebook and Google, most people do not have a direct relationship with data broker companies and often do not even know their names. That makes figuring out which ones have your data a complicated task.
Fortunately, for privacy-minded users willing to put in a little work, there are ways to reduce the number of companies selling your data. The Washington Post asked digital privacy experts for their best tips on how to combat the data brokers.<snip>
====== Links from 7-22-2019 email ===================
https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2019/06/21/google-chrome-has-become-surveillance-software-its-time-switch/
Consumer Tech Review
By Geoffrey A. Fowler Technology columnist June 21
Goodbye, Chrome: Google’s Web browser has become spy software Our latest privacy experiment found Chrome ushered more than 11,000 tracker cookies into our browser — in a single week. Here’s why Firefox is better.
This is how Google's Chrome lets the cookies track you, imagined in real life Chrome lets tracker cookies follow you all over the Web. The Post's Geoffrey A. Fowler imagines how that might feel in real life.
You open your browser to look at the Web. Do you know who is looking back at you?
Over a recent week of Web surfing, I peered under the hood of Google Chrome and found it brought along a few thousand friends. Shopping, news and even government sites quietly tagged my browser to let ad and data companies ride shotgun while I clicked around the Web.
This was made possible by the Web’s biggest snoop of all: Google. Seen from the inside, its Chrome browser looks a lot like surveillance software.
Lately I’ve been investigating the secret life of my data, running experiments to see what technology really gets up to under the cover of privacy policies that nobody reads. It turns out, having the world’s biggest advertising company make the most popular Web browser was about as smart as letting kids run a candy shop.<snip>
https://www.hennepin.us/greendisposalguide
how to take care of surplus electronics, appliances
https://www.howtogeek.com/426515/how-to-speed-up-your-internet-connection/
How to Speed Up Your Internet Connection
By TIM BROOKES JULY 13, 2019
Internet connections could always be faster. Whether your downloads are crawling, streaming feels like a slideshow, or you just want to maximize your speeds, here’s how you can accelerate that connection.
Depending on your Internet Service Provider (ISP), you can often get faster speeds by calling them (or visiting their website) and upgrading to a more expensive plan. Your monthly bill will go up, but so will your speed. Before you do that, however, here are some tips that can speed up your connection for free.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/426876/how-criminals-order-phones-in-your-name-and-how-to-stop-them/
How Criminals Order Phones in Your Name (and How to Stop Them)
By JOSH HENDRICKSON JULY 12, 2019
A new type of phone theft is on the rise. Instead of stealing phones directly from you, thieves impersonate you to get brand new smartphones from your cellular carrier and stick you with the bill. Here’s what’s going on.
What Is Account Hijacking?
Outright smartphone theft is getting harder to pull off and less lucrative. We’re more careful with our phones than we used to be and—starting with the iPhone—more smartphones offer encryption and lost phone tools out of the box. So, some criminals have adopted a new tactic. Instead of messing with stolen phones and worrying about activation problems, they pose as you and order new phones on your account.
The scam works well for a variety of reasons.<snip>
Topic -- Record a side of an audio cassette or LP record as a digital file for your flashdrive
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Musicmatch_Jukebox
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mp3DirectCut
====== Links from 7-12-2019 email ===================
How Do I Change My Default Web Browser in Windows 10?
One of the changes in Windows 10 as compared to previous versions of Windows is how to change default programs, including web browsers.
Changing the default web browser in Windows 10 is pretty simple; it's just different than it once was.
I'll explain the reasoning, but first I'll show you how.
https://askleo.com/74051
What's a Browser Cache? How Do I Clear It? Why Would I Want To?
The browser cache appears in more answers than questions, but often causes even more questions.
Even while following instructions to empty the cache, many people aren't clear on what this piece of magic really is, or why clearing the cache does anything at all.
Let's review what the browser cache is and why it exists. I'll also point you to steps to clear it in Edge, Internet Explorer, Firefox, and Chrome, and try to dream up some reasons why that sometimes helps.
https://askleo.com/12274
How Can I Tell If a Download is Safe?
I'm really hesitant to download and run unknown EXE files. Is there any way I can scan it with some program or otherwise ascertain if it's clean or riddled with subtle spyware, viruses, or whatever else could be bad?
I was somewhat taken aback by this question. It's a perfectly good question — it's one that more people should be asking more often.
No, my reaction was due to the lack of a good answer.
It turns out that it's fairly difficult to ascertain whether or not something you've downloaded is about to play havoc with your system, particularly before you download it.
But it's getting better.
https://askleo.com/74029
The One Thing Every Non-technical Person Needs to Know
What should every non-technical person know about the internet, social media, smart phones, technology, or cyber privacy and security?
It took me a millisecond to answer this. It might even be one of my most important answers, ever.
Don't believe everything you read.
From headlines designed to get you to click, to content designed to enrage you, to poorly researched and vetted content, misinformation is everywhere.
You need to be able to tell truth from fiction, and know not to trust what you can't verify.
https://askleo.com/74799
Will Windows 7 Keep Working After Support Ends?
Apparently there are people that believe when support for Windows 7 ends it'll stop working. That's just wrong, right? It'll keep working? Can't I just keep using it?
Yes, Windows 7 will keep working.
You can keep using it, but it's important to understand the risks involved.
One thing we've learned, though, from being here before, is that the risks may not be as horrific as some make them out to be.
https://askleo.com/74806
Will Email to an Invalid Email Address Be Read by Someone?
I just sent an email to the wrong email address. I am positive that the email I sent it to was wrong as I read it once it left and it asked if I wanted to add it to my contacts after I sent it! The @XXXX.com part of the address was my work. I am 100% certain that there is no one at work with that address. Please tell me where it could possibly have gone and is someone going to be able to read it??? I am really worried as it was quite personal.
You won't like my answer.
There's just no way to know.
At least, not unless someone did get it and then tells you they did.
https://askleo.com/2942
====== Links from 7-8-2019 email ===================
Could a Built-in Tracking Device in My Laptop Detect My Tor Browsing History?
Yes.
I'm assuming by “built-in tracking device” you mean that someone has actually added a hardware device of some sort to your laptop.
Such a device would share all the capabilities of malware — or perhaps even more.
Continue Reading:
https://askleo.com/73474
Email I Was Composing has Disappeared. Can I Get it Back?
I was responding to an email, but my response disappeared. Do you know a way I can retrieve it?
It's a very common scenario: you're typing a nice lengthy response in email, and all of a sudden it's gone.
Continue Reading
https://askleo.com/2630
How Do I Get Off of an Unwanted Email Distribution List?
How does one get off of an unwanted email distribution list? Does clicking the “unsubscribe” button really work? That just seems to generate more.
It depends on how you got onto the list in the first place.
Sometimes “unsubscribe” is exactly the right thing to do.
Sometimes you want to avoid it at all costs.
Continue Reading:
https://askleo.com/73487
The State of Passwords in 2019
Passwords have been in the news a lot lately, mostly due to various breaches at an assortment of online service providers.
I want to briefly touch on four topics:
Best practices: what makes a good password
Storage strategies: how to securely keep track of it all
Two-factor authentication: protection against breaches
The possible death of the password as an security identifier
Continue Reading:
https://askleo.com/72648
How Can I Boost My Laptop's Performance?
How can I optimize my laptop's performance in Windows 10?
Honestly, my advice isn't Windows 10-specific. It applies to almost any edition of Windows.
And it also doesn't apply to only laptops.
Let's review my “Top 10” list of things to do for speed.
Continue Reading:
https://askleo.com/73566
Can I Use External Hard Drives as NAS Storage?
Yes. Yes you can.
I do it myself.
But first we have to make sure we're on the same page when it comes to defining what a NAS is.
Continue Reading:
https://askleo.com/73574
====== Links from 6-26-2019 email ===================
https://www.wired.com/story/privacy-browsers-duckduckgo-ghostery-brave
AUTHOR: DAVID NIELDDAVID NIELD
SECURITY 06.16.19 IT'S TIME TO SWITCH TO A PRIVACY BROWSER
THERE'S A NEW battleground in the browser wars: user privacy. Firefox just made its Enhanced Tracking Protection a default feature, Apple continues to pile privacy-focused features into its Safari browser, and people are more aware than ever before of the sort of information they can reveal every time they set a digital footprint on the web.
If you want to push back against online tracking, you've got several options to pick from when choosing a default browser. These are the browsers that put user privacy high on the list of their priorities.<snip>
====== Links from 6-21-2019 email ===================
https://www.axios.com/what-apple-knows-about-you-fa7fa529-05af-48fa-bc51-54c15a6f5fbc.html
by Ina Fried Jun 11, 2019 What Apple knows about you
Apple pitches itself as the most privacy-minded of the big tech companies, and indeed it goes to great lengths to collect less data than its rivals. Nonetheless, the iPhone maker will still know plenty about you if you use many of its services: In particular, Apple knows your billing information and all the digital and physical goods you have bought from it, including music, movie and app purchases.
A different approach: But even for heavy users, Apple uses a number of techniques to either minimize how much data it has or encrypt it so that Apple doesn't have access to iMessages and similar personal communications.
Between the lines: Apple is able to do this, in part, because it makes its money from selling hardware, and increasingly from selling services, rather than through advertising. (It does have some advertising business, and it also gets billions of dollars per year from Google in exchange for being Apple's default search provider.)
But Apple maintains that its commitment to privacy is based not just on its business model but on core values.
How it works: In order to collect less data, Apple tries to do as much work on its devices as possible, even if that sometimes means algorithms aren't as well tuned, processing is slower, or the same work gets done on multiple devices.
Photos are a case in point. Even if you store your images in Apple's iCloud, Apple does the work of facial identification, grouping, labeling and tagging images on the Mac or iOS device, rather than on the service's own computers.
Some of the most sensitive data that your device collects, including your fingerprint or Face ID, stay on the device.<snip>
https://www.aarp.org/research/topics/economics/info-2019/robocall-spoofing-survey.html
AARP RESEARCH ISSUES & TOPICS
Many Americans Still Vulnerable to Spoofing
AARP National Survey of Adults 18+ About Robocalls and Spoofing
by Alicia R. Williams, Jennifer Sauer, AARP Research, May 2019
According to a new AARP survey, an overwhelming majority of U.S. adults find robocalls “annoying” (94%) and “disruptive” (90%), but few are taking action to protect themselves.
Robocalls Are Getting Worse
Robocalls—autodialed calls that play a recorded message when you answer—have legitimate uses. You might get a call warning you that severe weather is on the way or that school will be closing early. But as the technology has gotten cheaper and more sophisticated, scammers have noticed. Since 2016, the volume of calls has increased from just over 29 billion to nearly 48 billion calls in 2018, and one in ten (11%) adults surveyed has fallen prey to a telephone scam at some point. According to the Federal Trade Commission, phone scams cost U.S. consumers $429 million last year alone.
How the Scam Works
When deciding to answer a call, most of us rely on caller ID, but we rarely answer a call with no caller information. To get you to pick up the call, scammers use “spoofing”: They fake the area code or the prefix that appears in your caller ID to make the call seem local and make you think someone you know is calling. More than half of U.S. adults (59%) surveyed said that they were very or somewhat likely to answer a call with a local area code, and almost half (44%) said they’d probably answer a call with an area code and prefix where family or close friends live.<snip>
https://www.npr.org/2019/06/21/734451600/ever-plugged-a-usb-in-wrong-of-course-you-have-heres-why
TECHNOLOGY
Ever Plugged A USB In Wrong? Of Course You Have. Here's Why
June 21, 2019 By JOSH AXELROD
Because the plug isn't reversible, connecting a USB device to a computer can often be a frustrating experience.
Your files are done syncing, and you go to plug in your thumb drive. You try once. Failure ensues. Metal clashes with metal. Humiliated and discouraged, you flip it and try again. Failure, again! How could this be possible?
Wiping your brow, ready to give up, you flip back to the original orientation for a final try. The hard-won success is unsatisfying, tainted by the absurdity of the process.
For years, Internet users have been griping about the USB, or Universal Serial Bus, and its maddening difficulty to plug in right, even creating memes about the commonly shared experience. Some call it the USB paradox, the seemingly impossible process of making a 50-50 guess wrong twice.<snip>
A DIY Dream: What If Apple Had Made A Watch In 1985?
ALL TECH CONSIDERED
A DIY Dream: What If Apple Had Made A Watch In 1985?
Ajay Bhatt led the team at Intel that created the USB — a near-ubiquitous connection interface that allows users to plug mice, iPods, printers, thumb drives and other devices into a computer. He recognizes that the model has led to frustration.
https://www.forbes.com/sites/jasonevangelho/2019/06/15/how-to-test-drive-200-linux-distributions-without-ever-downloading-or-installing-them/#685c134d50d9
Jun 15, 2019
How To Test Drive 200+ Linux Distributions Without Ever Downloading Or Installing Them
by Jason Evangelho
I've written about two fantastic tools that help people discover the ideal Linux distribution tailored to their needs and expectations, but a new tool just materialized on my radar and frankly, it's blowing my mind. I just took Debian 9.9.0 Cinnamon, MX Linux 18.3 and Peppermint OS for a quick test drive. But I did so without downloading any ISOs, without flashing any images to a USB, and without even firing up VirtualBox. That's thanks to DistroTest.net, a website that streams the experience right to your browser.<snip>
====== Links from 6-14-2019 email ===================
How Do I Contact Outlook.com Customer Service?
https://askleo.com/10789
Can Everything I Do Online Be Monitored at My Router?
https://askleo.com/4984
A friend of mine recently forwarded me an email he received that looked like it had come from me.
Except, of course, it hadn't. It was a complete forgery, and not a very good one at that.
I am both slightly honored that I'm worth forging, and quite annoyed that someone actually did.
We'll look at the message and all the clues it contains that make it a fairly obvious fake, and then generalize those clues to help you separate spam from legitimate email.
Dealing with Fake "Ask Leo"
https://askleo.com/7318
Cleanup performed by your anti-malware tools can be incomplete. That's not actually uncommon, though I'm not sure why. I'll explain what happened, and how to clean that last annoying part up manually.
It's actually a technique that can be useful in other, non-malware related situations as well.
Continue Reading: How Do I Remove this Error on Startup?
https://askleo.com/4375
Can I Use My TV as a Second Display?
https://askleo.com/2597
How Long Does Windows 7 Have Before It's Phased Out?
https://askleo.com/73539
====== Links from 6-7-2019 email ===================
https://www.howtogeek.com/106718/how-to-search-google-like-a-pro-11-tricks-you-have-to-know/
How to Search Google Like a Pro: 11 Tricks You Have to Know
By CHRIS HOFFMAN JULY 12, 2017
Google is a powerful tool, but you’re missing out on a lot of that power if you just type words into it. Master Google and find the best results faster with these search tricks.
Whether you’re an inexperienced user or a seasoned professional, you’ll probably find at least one search operator you weren’t aware of here. Many of Google’s search operators aren’t very well-known.
Exact Words and Phrases
One of the most basic and widely known search tricks is using quotation marks to search for an exact phrase. For example, perform the following search and you’ll only get pages that contain the word “Hello” followed by the word “World.” <snip>
https://www.techlearning.com/news/4-free-and-easy-audio-recording-tools-for-google-slides
ChromeMP3 Recorder from HablaCloud
This tool only runs on Chromebooks, not other computers like PC's or Mac's. If you are on a Chromebook though, this is a fantastically easy tool to use. You can get the Chrome Web Store link on the site at https://www.hablacloud.com/
There are not any other editing options with this tool. Just a simple way for anyone to record and save audio on a Chromebook!
https://online-voice-recorder.com/
If you want another tool that is just about as simple, but runs on Chromebooks, PCs, and Macs, then you can use the "Online Voice Recorder" website. Here's how it works:
Go to the site at: https://online-voice-recorder.com/
Click the mic button to start recording.
Note: you will need to give it permission to use your microphone the first time you use the site.
Click the "Stop" button when done.
You will now get a screen where you can preview your voice recording.
If needed, you can trim the start and end of the audio to remove any extra dead space.
When done, click "Save".
The MP3 file will be downloaded to your device!
====== Links from 5-31-2019 email ===================
Perhaps your device or android OS isn't supported by The Google Play Store....
https://en.uptodown.com/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Android_app_stores#Third-party_app_stores
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Android_app_stores
https://www.howtogeek.com/402458/enable-god-mode-in-windows-10/
What Is the “God Mode” Folder in Windows 10, and How Do I Enable It?
By MARSHALL GUNNELL JANUARY 24, 2019
What if Windows let you quickly access administrative tools, backup and restore options and other important management settings from a single window? If that sounds good, look no further than the so-called “God Mode.”
What Is God Mode?
No, God Mode doesn’t unlock any extra secret features in Windows or let you do any tweaking that you can’t do in the regular Windows interface. Instead, it’s simply a special folder you can enable that exposes most of Windows’ admin, management, settings, and Control Panel tools in a single, easy-to-scroll-through interface.
And yes, you can also find a lot of this stuff by searching the Start menu, but to do that, you kind of need to know what you’re looking for begin with. The God Mode folder offers an easier way to browse through 206 of these tools and get to know them.
By the way, “God Mode” is just a popular name some people give this special folder. You can name the folder anything you like—including Ultra-Control-Panel Mode, for example.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/165293/how-to-get-a-list-of-software-installed-on-your-pc-with-a-single-command/
Having a list of installed programs is also useful if you just bought a new computer and you want to install the same programs you had on your old computer. Here are a few different methods for doing so on Windows 10, 8/8.1, and 7.
PowerShell is one of the most powerful things built into Windows, so of course it can do something as simple as list your installed programs. In fact, all you need is one command, which you can copy and paste right from this page.
First, open PowerShell by clicking on the Start menu and typing “powershell”. Select the first option that comes up and you’ll be greeted with an empty PowerShell prompt.
Copy and paste the following command, pressing Enter when you’re done:
Get-ItemProperty HKLM:\Software\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\* | Select-Object DisplayName, DisplayVersion, Publisher, InstallDate | Format-Table –AutoSize
PowerShell will give you a list of all your programs, complete with the version, name of the developer, and even the date you installed it.<snip>
CCleaner is a Windows application designed to free up space on your PC by deleting temporary files and erasing private data, such as your browsing and download history and lists of recent documents in various programs. However, it can also give you a list of all the programs on your computer, which is particularly useful if you already have CCleaner installed (or are very uncomfortable using the command line).<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/164484/10-useful-system-tools-hidden-in-windows/
10+ Useful System Tools Hidden in Windows
By CHRIS HOFFMAN JULY 24, 2017
Windows contains a variety of system utilities that are useful, but well-hidden. Some are buried deep in the Start menu, while others you can access only if you know the right command to run.
System Configuration is another classic tool that many people don’t know about. Prior to Windows 8 and 10, which feature a startup-program manager built into Task Manager, System Configuration was the only included way of controlling startup programs on Windows. It also allows you to customize your boot loader, which is particularly useful if you have multiple versions of Windows installed.<snip>
Launch it by typing “msconfig” into the Start menu search box or Run dialog.<snip>
The System Information utility displays all kinds of information about your PC. You can find out things like the exact version of Windows you’re running, what kind of motherboard your system contains, how much RAM (and what kind) you have, what graphics adapter you’re sporting, and a whole lot more.
System Information doesn’t provide the slickest interface, but it will display a lot of system information without forcing you to install another program.
Open it by searching for “System Information” at your Start menu.<snip>
====== Links from 5-31-2019 email ===================
https://www.howtogeek.com/264534/how-to-free-10-gb-of-disk-space-after-installing-a-new-build-of-windows-10/
How to Free Over 10GB of Disk Space After Installing Windows 10’s May 2019 Update
By CHRIS HOFFMAN MAY 30, 2019
Did you just install the May 2019 Update? If so, there’s more than 10 GB of data wasting space on your hard drive—we had 24.6 GB! On a laptop or tablet with a limited amount of storage, this can fill up your device quite a bit.
If you have a computer with a large amount of available storage, you might not even notice this useless data. It’ll stick around for 10 days until Windows automatically cleans it up. But, if you’re pressed for space, you’ll want to clean it up as soon as possible.<snip>
You can go back to the last build of Windows 10 you had installed by navigating to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery and using the “Get Started” button under “Go back to the previous version of Windows 10.” This button is only present if the files are still available on your computer.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/348635/use-windows-10s-new-free-up-space-tool-to-clean-up-your-hard-drive/
Use Windows 10’s New “Free Up Space” Tool to Clean Up Your Hard Drive
By CHRIS HOFFMAN MAY 1, 2018
Windows 10 has a new, easy-to-use tool for freeing up disk space on your computer. It removes temporary files, system logs, previous Windows installations, and other files you probably don’t need.
This tool is new in the April 2018 Update. It works similarly to the old Disk Cleanup utility, but it’s part of the modern Settings app and is a bit faster to use.
To find this new tool, head to Settings > System > Storage. Click the “Free Up Space Now” link under Storage Sense. If you don’t see that option here, the April 2018 Update hasn’t been installed on your PC yet.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/361112/heres-what-you-should-use-instead-of-ccleaner/
Manage Startup Programs
CCleaner can manage your startup programs, but Windows 10 has this feature built in. To access Windows 10’s startup manager, head to Settings > Apps > Startup. You can see how much “impact” apps have on your startup process and toggle startup programs on or off from here. A startup program with “high impact” slows things down more than one with “low impact.”<snip>
Find the Files Wasting Space on Your Computer
To hunt down what’s actually using up space on your computer, install a disk space analyzer like WinDirStat. This tool scans your hard drive and shows you a graphical representation of what’s using space on your computer, sorting folders and files from the ones using the most space to the least. This works like the Disk Analyzer tool in CCleaner, but with a better interface that makes it easier to see what’s using space.<snip>
Link to watch free, advertiser-supported tv on your computer or device
http://www.pluto.tv/
https://www.sonycrackle.com/
https://tubitv.com/
https://www.popcornflix.com/pages/discover/d/tv-shows
https://sharetv.com/
https://www.yidio.com/tv-shows
====== Links from 5-24-2019 email ===================
Do I Need a New Email Address if Mine's Involved in a Breach?
There's no need to get a new address just because your email account was part of a breach — as long as you can still log in to your account.
There are steps you should take, but that's not one of them.
If you can't log in to your email account any more, though, you may have no other choice.
https://askleo.com/72170
How Do I Clean Up After Windows Update Breaks Other Applications?
This isn't the first time I've heard of Windows 10 updating itself, and you find that other software on your machine has stopped working. Often it's older software you've been using for years without a problem.
I can't guarantee a fix, of course, but I'll outline what I would do in this situation to maximize the chances of everything working again.
https://askleo.com/72173
How Do I Get My Web Browser's Menu and Toolbar Back?
It's easy to accidentally hide menus and toolbars.
I'll examine those, and show you how to get your toolbar, menu, or whatever it is that you're missing back.
https://askleo.com/4626
Coping With Gray Text
I am desperate and angry over the “trend” in graying fonts for the specious reason that it is more readable than black on white. It isn't. Sometimes it is impossible to fill out a form because the font is so unreadable.
This isn't a Windows problem, it's a website-design problem. And it is a problem. It's one I hear frequently.
Unfortunately, the remedies are either extreme or non-existent.
https://askleo.com/72427
Why Don't I Get Sound from My Computer? (A Checklist)
Try as I might, I can't get my computer to output sound. Nothing. I can't figure out what's wrong.
The problem is, it's a single silent symptom that can come from several sources. So, let's run down a bit of a checklist.
https://askleo.com/11930
How can I get rid of Ask.com?
It's taken over my computer and has muscled out my two browsers: Firefox and Explorer.
While it might seem that it's taken over your computer, it's more than likely it's taken over something much simpler: your browser.
https://askleo.com/5409
https://www.howtogeek.com/413838/how-to-get-the-most-out-of-your-chromebooks-ram/
How To Get the Most Out of Your Chromebook’s RAM
CAMERON SUMMERSON MAY 21, 2019
Chrome OS manages RAM differently than Windows or Mac computers, but that doesn’t mean you can’t optimize your workflow to make the most of your system’s potentially limited RAM. Here are some tips to help make your Chromebook’s RAM go further.<snip>
Topic -- video audio accessories for your devices
https://www.ebay.com/ search for smartphone tripod mount, sort by price. Search for smartphone microphone.
https://www.mycablemart.com/store/cart.php?m=product_detail&p=6022
headphone out mic in iphone cord
----
android mic in cord
https://www.google.com/search?q=android+mic+in+cord&newwindow=1&client=opera&hs=A4P&sa=X&biw=1173&bih=594&tbm=shop&tbs=p_ord:p
====== Links from 5-17-2019 email ===================
https://www.howtogeek.com/414036/2019-is-the-year-of-linux-on-the-desktop/
2019 Is the Year of Linux on the Desktop
By CHRIS HOFFMAN MAY 10,
The year of Linux on the desktop is finally here! Windows 10 is getting a Linux kernel, and all new Chromebooks will run Linux applications. Most desktops purchased in the future will include a Linux kernel and run Linux software.<snip>
Windows 10 will soon include a built-in Linux kernel updated through Windows Update. Windows itself will still be based on the Windows kernel, of course. The Linux kernel will power the Windows Subsystem for Linux 2 (WSL 2) and let you run even more Linux applications on Windows 10.<snip>
The primary desktop will still be Windows or Chrome, but you can install any Linux software you want on top of it. You won’t have to install a Linux distribution and deal with hardware compatibility issues—Linux software will be supported without any messing around.<snip>
Here are some handy keyboard command shared by computer buddy Fred Lewis:
Miscellaneous Computer Tricks and Tips
1- How to instantly open a randomly closed tab?
Unfortunately, this happens often: wanted to close a window in the browser but accidentally closed other important windows as well.
Instead of looking for it in history, use these "short-cuts" to compensate your inattention:
For Windows: Ctrl + Shift + T
For Mac: cmd + Z (Safari) and cmd + Shift + T (for Google Chrome).
2- What if the boss/Papa/Mama crept in from behind?
Sometimes you feel lazy at work and start reading random stuff on Quora. And you have a dozen other windows opened.
How to quickly pretend that you are working?
These shorts quickly remove the browser windows by minimizing all and showing the desktop(in windows) and you can return to the Word or Excel screen (manually):
For Windows: Windows + D (minimizes all applications and shows desktop)
For Mac: Fn + F11
3- How to lock the computer,
No one likes his boss to read his chat conversations or you do not want anyone to look into your monitor, until you leave to make coffee.
Others will not able to open only if you have set a password to login. One can simply enter by clicking your user icon if you don't have a password.
This quick combination of keys will instantly lock your computer and you will be able to fully enjoy the break:
For Windows: "Windows" key + L.
For Mac: cmd + Alt + Eject.
4- What if the computer halts?
It happens that you are sitting in Photoshop, and all of a sudden - the entire computer is “hung”. And it does not react to anything.
Typically, users immediately press Ctrl + Alt + Del to reboot. But this is far from the best solution.
It is much better to use short-cuts: they will stop only this one nasty program:
For Windows: Ctrl + Shift + Esc (Opens the task manager)
For Mac: cmd + Option (alt) + Shift + Esc.
Hold these buttons for three seconds in a row, and the hung program closes, and you will be able to work on and not lose any changes in all your documents.
5- Need to quickly save the url of any web-page?
As practice shows, this combination will save you millions of minutes:
For Windows: Ctrl + D
Mac version: cmd + L
6- How to make a screenshot not of the whole screen, but only of the required part of it?
All Windows users are accustomed to press "Print Screen" when they need to show something to their comrades. But it happens that there are too many things on the screen, and it is long and tedious to crop the picture.
Here's how to always allocate only what you need:
For Windows:
-Alt + Print Screen(the screenshot is saved to a folder called “Screenshots” in Pictures folder)
For Mac:
- cmd + Shift + 3 (the screenshot is saved on the desktop)
- cmd + Shift + Ctrl + 3 (the screenshot gets to the clipboard)
- cmd + Shift + 4 (Only the desired piece of the screen gets saved on the desktop)
- cmd + Shift + Ctrl + 4 (the desired piece gets copied to the clipboard)
====== Links from 5-10-2019 email ===================
https://www.usatoday.com/staff/1003/marc-saltzman/
Marc Saltzman
My Recent Work
5 steps to speed up your slow Wi-Fi
Foolproof ways to get your Wi-Fi to work outdoors
How to avoid a bad shopping trip on Amazon
How to buy a Chromebook
7 tips to making your laptop battery last longer
How to improve your Uber or Lyft passenger rating
Smart rings are a thing. Why would you wear one?
How Amazon Prime Now compares to grocery delivery rivals
How to see everything Netflix knows about you
Put an end to iPhone's endless low storage nags
5 new features to try with Windows 10
10 insider tips for using a Mac
Stop griping about Siri and do more hands-free
Time to delete Facebook? How to take a social media break
Amazon knows a lot about you. Find and delete it.
You're probably only using 10% of what Google Docs can do
Awesome apps for spring break trips
7 secrets to getting more from Amazon Prime Video
Has someone hacked your webcam? Here’s how to stop cyber-snoopers
https://www.aarp.org/home-family/personal-technology/info-2019/how-to-digitize-photos.html
Digitize Your Photos to Preserve Your Memories
How to do it yourself or use a professional service
by Marc Saltzman, AARP, April 22, 2019
Chances are you've thought about bringing your old paper photos into the digital age.
Great idea. After all, you likely have a lifetime of precious memories trapped in photo albums, shoeboxes or dusty frames.
Once digitized, these photographs will no longer fade over time; they can be automatically repaired with smart software (such as adding back color, removing redeye and stitching rips); photos can be organized and easily searched by keyword (on a computer, tablet, phone or online cloud site); and you can share them with friends and family over email and social media, or create fun projects like scrapbooks, slideshows, fridge magnets and more.
There are several ways to go about scanning old photos (or slides or negatives), but it boils down to two main options: Do it yourself (DIY) or use a professional service.<snip>
http://www.costcoconnection.com/connection/201903/MobilePagedArticle.action?articleId=1468576#articleId1468576
TECH CONNECTION
Thanks for the memory IN SECTION: TECH CONNECTION
How to back up your important files
by MARC SALTZMAN
Worldbackupday.com says that 113 cellphones are lost or stolen every minute and one in 10 computers is infected with viruses each month.
How do I say this politely? Stuff happens. Your computer’s hard drive might contract a nasty virus or be damaged following an unexpected power surge. Your smartphone or tablet could be lost, stolen or dropped. In other words, since you don’t know what the future holds, it’s critical to back up your stuff, just in case.<snip>
https://venturebeat.com/2019/01/01/net-applications-windows-10-passes-windows-7-in-market-share/
DEV Net Applications: Windows 10 passes Windows 7 in market share
By EMIL PROTALINSKI JANUARY 1, 2019
More than three years after its release, Windows 10 has passed Windows 7 in market share. That means more desktop computers are now running Microsoft’s latest and greatest operating system than any other OS, according to Net Applications. The milestone is a nice way for Microsoft to end 2018, even though the company surely was hoping it wouldn’t take this long for Windows 10 to overtake Windows 7.<snip>
====== Links from 5-3-2019 email ==========================
Chromebook as a laptop alternative
https://www.lifewire.com/chromebooks-vs-laptops-4163797
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chromebook
https://support.hp.com/us-en/product/hp-chromebook-14-q000/5409589/model/6654450/manuals
====== Links from 4-19-2019 email ==========================
https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=575EEAE9-8060-4A98-B15C-A2955BA26929
Mark R. Warner Apr 09 2019
Senators Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Ban Manipulative 'Dark Patterns'
WASHINGTON – A day ahead of the one-year anniversary of Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s congressional testimony, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and Deb Fischer (R-NE) have introduced the Deceptive Experiences To Online Users Reduction (DETOUR) Act, bipartisan legislation to prohibit large online platforms from using deceptive user interfaces, known as “dark patterns” to trick consumers into handing over their personal data.<snip>
“Any privacy policy involving consent is weakened by the presence of dark patterns. These manipulative user interfaces intentionally limit understanding and undermine consumer choice. Misleading prompts to just click the ‘OK’ button can often transfer your contacts, messages, browsing activity, photos, or location information without you even realizing it. Our bipartisan legislation seeks to curb the use of these dishonest interfaces and increase trust online,” said Sen. Fischer, a member of the Senate Commerce Committee.
Dark patterns can take various forms, often exploiting the power of defaults to push users into agreeing to terms stacked in favor of the service provider. Some examples of such actions include: a sudden interruption during the middle of a task repeating until the user agrees to consent; a deliberate obscuring of alternative choices or settings through design or other means; or the use of privacy settings that push users to ‘agree’ as the default option, while users looking for more privacy-friendly options often must click through a much longer process, detouring through multiple screens. Other times, users cannot find the alternative option, if it exists at all, and simply give up looking.
The result is that large online platforms have an unfair advantage over users and potential competitors in forcing consumers to give up personal data such as their contacts, messages, web activity, or location to the benefit of the company.<snip>
https://www.themuse.com/advice/organize-clean-work-computer
TOOLS & SKILLS
How to Spring Clean Your Work Computer (and Make It Feel New Again) in 5, 10, or 15 Minutes
By ALYSE KALISH
<snip>
Which is why when “spring cleaning” becomes the buzzword of the season, I’m all ears.
But this time of year isn’t just about raiding your closets and drawers at home Marie Kondo-style (although you should do that, too). It’s the perfect time to declutter your work life a bit, too.
And you can start with the most important item of all: your work computer. You know, that thing that you use roughly 10 hours a day, five days a week—it may be in need of a serious refresher.
It doesn’t have to take forever, either. With five minutes here and 10 minutes there, you can basically turn that exhausted piece of technology into a sparkling, highly-functioning work of art.
Here’s how to clean out your computer like a pro:<snip>
https://www.axios.com/what-the-internet-knows-about-you-c2e282d2-27af-468f-aa65-38cd40c89a76.html
Gerald Rich Apr 6, 2019
What the internet knows about you
Any search engine can quickly reveal your phone number, address and family information with a surprising level of detail.
It can be instantly culled on the open web from sites like White Pages and Spokeo.
Why it matters: This information, combined with social media posts, can be used by anyone to intimidate, harass, or stalk high-visibility people like politicians, business leaders, celebrities and journalists.
And it's getting easier for trolls to find specific information about all of us as we go about our daily lives.
The big picture: Finding personal information online is relatively easy; removing all of it is nearly impossible.
However, going through smart opt-out processes can reduce your online footprint, making it more difficult for malicious actors to target you.<snip>
http://www.bbc.com/future/story/20190401-why-theres-so-little-left-of-the-early-internet
In Depth Internet
Why there’s so little left of the early internet
It took nearly five years into the internet’s life before anyone made a concerted effort to archive it. Much of our earliest online activity has disappeared.
By Stephen Dowling 2 April 2019
<snip>One major problem with trying to archive the internet is that it never sits still. Every minute – every second – more photos, blog posts, videos, news stories and comments are added to the pile. While digital storage has fallen drastically in price, archiving all this material still costs money. “Who’s going to pay for it?” asks Dame Wendy. “We produce so much more material than we used to.”<snip>
====== Links from 4-12-2019 email ==========================
https://gizmodo.com/windows-10-is-hiding-a-great-video-capture-tool-1719196149
Windows 10 Is Hiding a Great Video Capture Tool
By Chris Mills 7/22/15
It’s not on the list of headline features, but the latest version of Windows is hiding a very welcome and well-executed feature: a video-capture tool baked right into the operating system.
On previous versions of Windows, recording a video of your screen meant navigating the usual muddy creek of ad-infested freeware; the lack of integration also made setting up a keyboard command to start recording an exercise in frustration.
That’s all changed with Windows 10, thanks to a video-record feature baked into the new Game DVR. Press Win+G, and a small bar pops up, with a video-capture button, and links to the Game DVR hub. (The first time you do this in a particular program, Windows will ask you to confirm that the program is a game, before starting Game DVR.)<snip>
====== Links from 4-5-2019 email ==========================
https://askleo.com/get-email-address-life/
http://ask-leo.com/what_does_it_mean_to_register_a_domain.html
https://askleo.com/how_do_i_route_my_email_through_gmail/
https://askleo.com/whats-difference-email-domain-email-account-email-address/
What Does "Mailbox Unavailable" Mean and How Do I Fix It?
https://askleo.com/3738
Why ANY Two-Factor Is Better than No Two-Factor at All
https://askleo.com/70786
The Journey to My New Computer: Update, Update, Update
https://askleo.com/70761
Why Do System Cleanup Utilities Report So Many Errors on a Supposedly Clean System?
https://askleo.com/4971
Password Checkup: A Recommended Chrome Browser Extension
https://askleo.com/71784
My new laptop was capable of holding 32GB (gigabytes) of RAM, but for reasons I didn't bother to pursue, I could find it only available with 16GB pre-installed.
The Journey to My New Computer: RAM Upgrade
https://askleo.com/71777
Topic -- ParkTV on the www
Full Schedule at www.slpmn.us/tv15
www.parktv.org
https://www.youtube.com/user/slpcable
https://vimeo.com/stlouispark
https://vimeo.com/slptv
====== Links from 3-29-2019 email ==========================
https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/press-releases/2019/03/office-depot-tech-support-firm-will-pay-35-million-settle-ftc
Home » News & Events » Press Releases » Office Depot and Tech Support Firm Will Pay $35 Million to Settle FTC Allegations That They Tricked Consumers into Buying Costly Computer Repair Services March 27, 2019 Office Depot, Inc. and a California-based tech support software provider have agreed to pay a total of $35 million to settle Federal Trade Commission allegations that the companies tricked customers into buying millions of dollars’ worth of computer repair and technical services by deceptively claiming their software had found malware symptoms on the customers’ computers.
Office Depot has agreed to pay $25 million while its software supplier, Support.com, Inc., has agreed to pay $10 million as part of their settlements with the FTC. The FTC intends to use these funds to provide refunds to consumers.
“Consumers have a hard enough time protecting their computers from malware, viruses, and other threats,” said FTC Chairman Joe Simons. “This case should send a strong message to companies that they will face stiff consequences if they use deception to trick consumers into buying costly services they may not need.”<snip>
I get the “about:blank” page whenever I run IE. What is a simple, fool-proof way to get rid of it?
About:blank is a page web browsers display when they have nothing else to display.
That's all. It's not something you “get rid of.”
The problem, of course, is that about:blank can show up unexpectedly, and people get confused about why, and what to do next.
What Is "About:blank" and How Do I Get Rid of It?
https://askleo.com/5362
My taskbar's on the right side of my screen. How do I move the taskbar back to the bottom where it belongs?
A lot of people don't realize it, but the taskbar can be placed on any edge of your screen: left, right, top or bottom. In fact, if you have multiple monitors, it can be placed on any edge of any display.
Occasionally — usually through a mis-click or accidental mouse action — the taskbar can get moved to somewhere other than where we want it.
So, let's move the taskbar back.
How Do I Move the Taskbar Back to the Bottom?
https://askleo.com/18341
Many email programs keep asking you for your password even if you've specified it, specified it correctly, and specified that it should be remembered.
They just do a really, really bad job at telling you why they keep asking.
Why Does My Email Program Keep Prompting for My Password?
https://askleo.com/4495
The Journey to My New Computer: Choices
Requirements, and making decisions of exactly what I should buy. And then, of course, placing the order for my new machine.
Hopefully, seeing the process I use will be helpful when it's time to replace your own computer.
The Journey to My New Computer: Choices
https://askleo.com/70074
I wrote about SMS two-factor being hackable, and why you should use it anyway.
It's an important enough topic that when I saw another article discussing a potential two-factor exploit — ‘You can't relax': Here's why 2-factor authentication may be hackable — I just have to jump in to reinforce my message.
Use two-factor authentication anyway. I'll explain why it's important, even if two-factor is technically hackable.
Two-factor Might Be Hackable? USE IT ANYWAY!
https://askleo.com/69599
How can I tell if my computer is being hacked? You can't.
There are some clues to look for, and I'll review a few of those, but ultimately, there's no way for the average computer user to know with any certainty that a hacker is not in the process of weaseling in or that they haven't done so already.
Perhaps now you'll understand why I talk so much about prevention.
And I'll talk about it some more.
How Can I Tell If My Computer Is Being Hacked?
https://askleo.com/4807
What should you and I do?
The same thing we do every breach, my friend; the same thing we do every breach.
What Should I Do About the Latest Breach?
https://askleo.com/70298
How Do I Get Rid Of "overseer.exe"?
Overseer.exe is apparently installed sometimes by Avast Free Anti-virus (and possibly other packages). The problem, as I discovered myself, is that uninstalling Avast did not remove overseer.exe. That takes some extra steps.
How Do I Get Rid Of "overseer.exe"?
https://askleo.com/70111
Is There a Real Alternative to Windows?
Is there a real, complete and reliable equivalent to Windows? Other than that Apple stuff.
That's a question I received not long ago. Particularly given the publicity around some of the issues with Windows 10 and its updates, I think many frustrated users are wondering if there isn't something else they could or should be using.
The answer is my most common: it depends.
Is There a Real Alternative to Windows?
https://askleo.com/70118
The Journey to My New Computer: The First Thing I Do My new laptop is here, and I'm ready to start playing with it.
The first thing I'll do probably won't surprise you, but how I do it almost certainly will.
The Journey to My New Computer: The First Thing I Do
https://askleo.com/70332
How Do I Delete Multiple Emails When I Have a Lot to Delete?
I have over 15,000 emails. How do I delete multiple emails without having to delete them one at a time?
Deleting multiple emails can be easy, or it can be really, really cumbersome.
Two factors determine which it's going to be: your criteria for which emails you want to delete, and the capabilities of your email program.
While I can't show you what works in every email program or interface, I'll review a couple of common techniques that will make this easier. Those techniques are useful for more than just deleting email, and they work in arenas other than email as well.
How Do I Delete Multiple Emails When I Have a Lot to Delete?
https://askleo.com/17401
The Journey to My New Computer: Success and Failure It's here, I backed up, and I updated, updated, and updated some more. Now what?
Well, now it's time to put my new machine into service. Let's review some of the software I've installed and use every day, as well as what's been working well. There's also one thing that falls into the “not so well” category.
The Journey to My New Computer: Success and Failure
https://askleo.com/71214
Why Am I Not Getting the Email I Signed Up For?
Email mailing lists and discussion groups are a staple of the internet. From technical issues to social clubs to formal publications distributed by email, the email mailing list is a critical component of how we conduct business, socialize, and interact online.
Unfortunately, it's also the backbone for spam, and therein lies the problem.
Why Am I Not Getting the Email I Signed Up For?
https://askleo.com/10979
Should I Defrag My External Drive, and If So, How?
Should I defrag my external hard drive? I thought I should as it contains some important documents and my computer backups. As such, I tried to use Defraggler (Piriform Ltd's program) for the purpose. The program has been running on my external hard drive (capacity 2T) for the past 10 hours and it has done only 10% of defrag. The analysis does say that there are 32 fragmented files and 92% fragmentation. Is there anything I am not doing right? How should I defrag this drive, if I should?
While there are alternatives, you're doing it right; Defraggler is a fine program to use.
The more important question is that, even with “92%” fragmentation, should you even be bothering?
Should I Defrag My External Drive, and If So, How?
https://askleo.com/71204
====== Links from 3-22-2019 email ==========================
https://www.thewindowsclub.com/list-freeware-releases-from-the-windows-club
List of freeware tools and other releases from The Windows Club This page list down all the Freeware, Tools, eBook, Themes, Screensavers, Wallpaper and other releases from The Windows Club. Maybe you have landed here out of choice, or maybe you clicked on a direct .zip link on another website and ended up here! Scroll down to see what interests you. We are that sure you will find something of value here!<snip> Ultimate Windows Tweaker 4 for Windows 10, apart from offering you the usual tweaks, lets you tweak Privacy settings and more.
https://techcrunch.com/2019/02/06/iphone-session-replay-screenshots/
Many popular iPhone apps secretly record your screen without asking And there's no way a user would know By Zack Whittaker Many major companies, like Air Canada, Hollister and Expedia, are recording every tap and swipe you make on their iPhone apps. In most cases you won’t even realize it. And they don’t need to ask for permission.
You can assume that most apps are collecting data on you. Some even monetize your data without your knowledge. But TechCrunch has found several popular iPhone apps, from hoteliers, travel sites, airlines, cell phone carriers, banks and financiers, that don’t ask or make it clear — if at all — that they know exactly how you’re using their apps.
Worse, even though these apps are meant to mask certain fields, some inadvertently expose sensitive data.<snip>
https://www.axios.com/facebook-personal-data-scope-suer-privacy-de15c860-9153-45b6-95e8-ddac8cd47c34.html
What Facebook knows about you by Ina Fried
On Facebook's map of humanity, the node for "you" often includes vast awareness of your movements online and a surprising amount of info about what you do offline, too. The company has near-total awareness of every move you make on its website or in its apps. Facebook does scan your chat messages, but it isn't exactly reading them — it runs an automated scan for child pornography and other banned content. Facebook sees you less thoroughly outside its own digital turf, but it still sees a lot. This data comes from two places: partner services and third-party information brokers. Facebook has tools that partner websites use to integrate with Facebook, including the inclusion of "Like" and "Share" buttons, as well as a tracking cookie known as Facebook Pixel. Facebook knows your location, even if you haven't directly given it permission to access your phone's GPS, by tracking the IP address of the phones, computers and other devices you use to access its servers.
https://www.axios.com/what-google-knows-about-you-3f6c9b20-4406-4bda-8344-d324f1ee0816.html
What Google knows about you by Ina Fried
For all the many controversies around Facebook's mishandling of personal data, Google actually knows way more about most of us. It likely knows everything you've ever typed into your browser’s search bar and every YouTube video you’ve ever watched. But that's just the beginning. It may also know where you've been, what you've bought and who you communicate with. A 2018 study by Vanderbilt University's Douglas Schmidt found that Google and Chrome are sending plenty of data to Google even without any user action, including location data (assuming a user hasn't chosen not to share such information). And nearly half the data came from people's interaction with Google's services for advertisers, as opposed to consumers directly choosing to use a Google service. In addition to everything Google collects via its services, Google search aims to be a repository for all the world's information. That means there's a mountain of information accessible on Google because someone , somewhere in the world has put it online.
https://lifehacker.com/change-your-screen-to-grayscale-to-combat-phone-addicti-1795821843
Change Your Screen to Grayscale to Combat Phone Addiction
By Melissa Kirsch 6/05/17
Most of the time, you check your phone and there’s nothing interesting—no notifications, just the same old apps staring back at you. But sometimes checking your phone is rewarding —you get an amusing text, a flurry of likes, an email containing good news. This hit is satisfactory enough to keep you returning, checking your phone compulsively for another dopamine jolt.
Go Gray
To combat phone addiction, Harris suggests enabling grayscale on your phone. It might not cure your addiction completely, but certainly Instagram and Snapchat are going to be a lot less appealing in black and white than they are in technicolor.
The process for enabling grayscale differs for different models of Android phones, but it’s typically accessed via the “Accessibility” menu. In iOS 10, go to Settings > General > Accessibility >Display Accommodations >Color Filters. Switch Color Filters on and select Grayscale. To easily toggle between color and grayscale, go to Settings > General > Accessibility > Accessibility Shortcut > Color Filters. Now, you just press the home button three times to enable grayscale. Triple-click again to go back to color.<snip>
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2019/mar/07/facebook-privacy-domination
Opinion Facebook
Facebook’s new move isn't about privacy. It’s about domination Siva Vaidhyanathan Mark Zuckerberg announced on Wednesday that Facebook would be ‘pivoting to privacy’. That’s an empty pledge Thu 7 Mar 2019 In April 10, 2018, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg testified before a joint hearing of the Commerce and Judiciary Committees on Capitol Hill in Washington, about the use of Facebook data to target American voters in the 2016 election. Zuckerberg said Facebook will start to emphasize new privacy-shielding messaging services, a shift apparently intended to blunt both criticism of the company’s data handling and potential antitrust action. ‘This recent announcement, with all its unjustified hype about a “pivot” or a “move” serves more of Zuckerberg’s interests’
If you have visited China in recent years you might have discovered how difficult it is to make your way through without WeChat, an all-purpose mobile phone application. People in China use WeChat for everything from sending messages to family to reading news and opinion to ordering food to paying at vending machines to paying for a taxi. WeChat lets you deposit money in your bank, search for a library book, make a medical appointment, conduct business conference calls, and interact with the government. In China, WeChat is the operating system of your life, as it is for almost 1.1 billion people.
For Facebook’s CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, WeChat is both his greatest challenge and the model for the future of his company. Zuckerberg has long wanted Facebook to be the operating system of our lives – at least for those who live outside of China. WeChat is what Facebook has yet to become. WeChat, should it move beyond China and its diaspora, is also the greatest threat to Facebook’s global domination.<snip>
https://www.npr.org/2019/03/08/701417140/when-not-reading-the-fine-print-can-cost-your-soul
When Not Reading The Fine Print Can Cost Your Soul
March 8, 2019 By MATTHEW S. SCHWARTZ
Most of us ignore the fine print. But one woman who didn't earned herself $10,000. Others have found themselves on the losing end of a contract they didn't bother to read.
Sofie Delauw/Getty Images/Cultura RF
Nobody reads the fine print. But maybe they should.
Georgia high school teacher Donelan Andrews won a $10,000 reward after she closely read the terms and conditions that came with a travel insurance policy she purchased for a trip to England. Squaremouth, a Florida insurance company, had inserted language promising a reward to the first person who emailed the company.
"We understand most customers don't actually read contracts or documentation when buying something, but we know the importance of doing so," the company said. "We created the top-secret Pays to Read campaign in an effort to highlight the importance of reading policy documentation from start to finish."
Not every company is so generous. To demonstrate the importance of reading the fine print, many companies don't give; they take. The mischievous clauses tend to pop up from time to time, usually in cheeky England.
In 2017, 22,000 people who signed up for free public Wi-Fi inadvertently agreed to 1,000 hours of community service — including cleaning toilets and "relieving sewer blockages," the Guardian reported. The company, Manchester-based Purple, said it inserted the clause in its agreement "to illustrate the lack of consumer awareness of what they are signing up to when they access free wifi."
Portable Applications
https://www.google.com/search?newwindow=1&source=hp&ei=W5-GXLWAB6TIjwTvhYbIAw&q=portable+applications+for+windows
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portable_application
https://portableapps.com/apps
Over 400 Real Portable Apps
Free, Legal, Safe, and Fully Portable
No Shovelware. No Bundleware.
https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/portable-apps
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/portable-software-usb/
====== Links from 3-15-2019 email ==========================
How Do I Decompress All the Files that Windows Compressed for Me?
https://askleo.com/5290
Out-of-Office Replies are Evil
https://askleo.com/2368
Crank Your Password Strength Up to 11!
https://askleo.com/68646
Should I Use Facebook to Log In to Other Sites When Offered?
https://askleo.com/5481
Chkdsk Cannot Run Because the Volume Is in Use by another Process" -- What Does It Mean and How Do I Fix It?
https://askleo.com/4507
2018's Most Popular "Ask Leo" Articles
https://askleo.com/68911
Who Is the Administrator of my Home Network?
https://askleo.com/4865
What Is Pagefile.sys? Can I Delete It?
https://askleo.com/15171
Can I Copy Windows 10 System Files to Another Drive?
https://askleo.com/67844
https://www.npr.org/2019/03/10/702028545/googling-strangers-one-professors-lesson-on-privacy-in-public-spaces
Googling Strangers: One Professor's Lesson On Privacy In Public Spaces
March 10, 2019 by FRANCESCA PARIS & Scott Simon
Kate Klonick, assistant professor of law at St. John's University, gave her students an optional assignment for spring break: Try to identify a stranger based solely on what they reveal in public.
Charlotte Lehman could hear the man reading his credit card number out loud from across the Starbucks.
He was speaking to a companion, but his voice carried over the music to where Lehman sat. Surrounded by a dozen or so people, the speaker also divulged his phone number and home address.
After that, all it took for Lehman to identify him was a quick Google search. She was able to find the man's full name, what he does for a living and his professional website. She even heard him sharing a password.
Lehman, a third year law student, wasn't Googling the stranger for fun. She was on a homework assignment from her professor — to "de-anonymize" someone in a public place.<snip>
====== Links from 3-8-2019 email ==========================
Topic -- weather on line
Windows 7 computers [3] available for web browsing.
Please sign in on the buddy sheet when you arrive.
http://m.startribune.com/weather/
http://m.startribune.com/weather/#hourly
https://www.mprnews.org/weather
https://minnesota.cbslocal.com/category/weather/
https://weather.com/weather/tenday/l/55407:4:US
https://www.accuweather.com/en/us/minnesota/weather-radar
https://www.kare11.com/weather
www.weather.gov
====== Links from 3-1-2019 email ==========================
How Can an Employer Recover Information I've Erased?
https://askleo.com/67556
A Drive with All My Data is Showing as Unformatted -- What Do I Do?
https://askleo.com/5001
How Do I Keep My Kids Safe from Internet Garbage?
https://askleo.com/1893
====== Links from 2-22-2019 email ==========================
https://www.fastcompany.com/90304498/20-great-free-streaming-services-for-cord-cutters
20 great free streaming services for cord cutters
BY JARED NEWMAN 02.11.19
The best thing about cutting the cable cord is that you get a lot more control over your monthly TV bill. Instead of spending $100 per month or so on a bloated bundle of TV channels, you can throw together a few streaming services like Netflix or Hulu and save a lot of money.
Alternatively, you can take things to the extreme and trim your TV bill to zero dollars per month. These days, there are so many free streaming services that you can watch hours of TV every night and spend nothing.
Whether you’re chasing that mythical $0 TV bill, or just trying to pad out your paid subscriptions with a few more things to watch, here are 20 free streaming TV services you ought to know about.<snip>
https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/columnist/2019/01/15/15-google-tricks-you-never-knew-before/2580715002/
15 amazing Google tricks you never knew before now Kim Komando, Special for USA TODAY Jan. 15, 2019 “Google it.” We use this phrase every day. Once upon a time, the word “Google” just indicated a very long number. Today, it’s a verb.
That extends to physical products as well.
But the world's most powerful search engine can do more than find things. Yes, the full G-Suite is a game-changer, and many of us have uploaded our entire digital existence to Drive; but most users don't even realize how much power they have with a simple browser, thanks to Google's many features and tricks.
While you’re at it, find out what Google knows about you through its “takeout” feature. It’s free and tells you what the search giant knows about you. (Hint: If you’ve got multiple Google accounts, you’ll need to sign out and sign in for each.) If you never realized you could run two searches simultaneously or convert your screen to Klingon, read on. Google will grant you access to pretty much all of human knowledge, but even that is only the tip of the iceberg.<snip>
https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/columnist/komando/2019/01/25/google-search-isnt-everything-7-ways-find-info-online/2667023002/
Google isn't the only way to search online. Here are 7 services you should try instead Kim Komando, Special for USA TODAY Jan. 25, 2019 Google isn’t everything. Yes, it’s the most powerful search engine ever created. Yes, it processes 40,000 searches per second. And yes, Google is the go-to search engine for the majority of us.
Still, Google doesn’t know everything, and there are some resources that are actually better than Google at finding certain information. Some sites index streaming movies, others archive GIFs. Other search engines may not have the omniscience of Google, but they are far more committed to your privacy.
For those special searches, here are seven search sites you can use other than Google. These services cover a range of themes and needs, but you’re almost guaranteed to find one useful – and you might find yourself consulting it over and over. The best part: They’re basically all free.<snip>
https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/columnist/komando/2019/02/14/your-smartphone-tracking-you-how-stop-sharing-data-ads/2839642002/
How to stop your smartphone from tracking your every move, sharing data and sending ads Kim Komando, Special to USA TODAY Published Feb. 14, 2019 It's not just your smart TV, it's your phone, computer, home appliance with Internet. How to handle it all, on Talking Tech.
Your phone knows where you are standing or sitting at this moment. Most people know that. How else could you use GPS? While location tracking is essential for directions, it also helps big tech sell you things.
“Targeted advertising” is a massive phenomenon. Companies are eager to flood your screen with ads, which are primarily influenced by your day-to-day habits. Facebook, Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, Google and many others make money off mobile ads, and they need this information to power their data-mining machines.
Why is your phone allowed to track you and share that data with unknown third parties? In short, you gave it permission. Typical data-sharing policies are buried within pages and pages of privacy policies and terms of agreements.
Companies usually have a reasonable explanation, such as Apple tracking personal calls and emails to prevent fraud, which many consider an invasion of privacy.
No matter what device you use, accessing the internet subjects you to behavioral tracking. If this practice bothers you, all hope is not lost.<snip>
Topic -- android operating system on "remix pc"
Windows 7 computers [3] available for web browsing.
Please sign in on the buddy sheet when you arrive.
https://www.amazon.com/Remix-Mini-2G-Android-PC/dp/B016OJS1XI
https://www.walmart.com/ip/remix-mini-2g-android-pc/55434916
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/jidetech/remix-mini-the-worlds-first-true-android-pc
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Remix-Mini-Ethernet-2-0-Multitasking/dp/B018NAN0SC
https://techcabal.com/2016/04/20/remix-mini-android-pc-review-android-is-eating-the-world/
====== Links from 2-19-2019 email ==========================
What Security Software Do You Recommend?
https://askleo.com/3517
https://askleo.com/microsoft-we-deserve-better/
Microsoft, We Deserve Better
Updates to Windows seemingly can't be trusted, and yet they're forced on us. Something must change.
In recent weeks, I’ve seen calls from several sources suggesting that Microsoft stop, take a breath, and seriously review their update process.
I agree. This madness must end. Or at least slow down.
Summary
Most people should still take updates, backing up first.
Taking updates feels akin to Russian Roulette.
Microsoft can do better, and I offer specific actions they can and should take.
Coping with Windows 10
https://askleo.com/67383
Do All These Software Updates Take Up More and More Disk Space?
https://askleo.com/4490
How Do I Figure Out My Windows Edition?
https://askleo.com/67081
Use BitLocker to Bypass Potential Self-Encrypting Drive Vulnerabilities
https://askleo.com/67043
Can I Reassign My Drive Letters?
https://askleo.com/2743
How Do I Fix Jagged Fonts in Windows 10?
https://askleo.com/66446
How Do I Stop Websites from Pestering Me About Notifications?
https://askleo.com/66438
Using OneDrive for Nearly Continuous Backup
https://askleo.com/29368
Back Up Smartphone Photos Using OneDrive
https://askleo.com/65907
Has a Hacker Really Hacked My Email Account?
https://askleo.com/65875
====== Links from 2-11-2019 email ==========================
How Do I Change the Default Mail Program in Windows?
https://askleo.com/2809
I Have Two Facebook Accounts, How Do I Delete Just One of Them?
https://askleo.com/5327
Don't Lose Your Phone: Here's What Can Happen (and How to Prepare)
https://askleo.com/65409
How Can I Use a Password Manager for My Security Questions?
https://askleo.com/65608
What's the Difference between a Hub, a Switch, and a Router?
https://askleo.com/1862
Why Can't I Undelete these Files?
https://askleo.com/65655
====== Links from 2-1-2019 email ==========================
www.bostonglobe.com/lifestyle/2019/01/10/how-protect-all-those-pictures-trapped-your-phone-and-how-set-them-free/5iPcojsyJPxktuyVn3LACI/story.html
How to protect the photos trapped on your iPhone (and untrap them) You don’t have to leave photos on your phone, where they could be lost. Protect them by saving them to the cloud and printing them.
By Jessica Teich Globe correspondent January 10, 2019
Quick: If there were a fire in your house and you could save only one material item, what would it be? Did you, like so many others, think of photo albums and home videos? It’s a sensible answer: “Your photos are your life story,” says Mike Hagan, a photographer and the author of “Thousands of Images, Now What?”
Today, we use our phones as cameras and photo albums. What if there was a proverbial fire in your phone, maybe in the form of a drop into a puddle, a bad fall, or a theft? What would happen to those photos and memories? Would you know how to recover them?
“Having offsite photo storage is really essential,” says Chris Sanchez, a professional photographer and founder of Boston Photography Workshops. “You just never know what’s going to happen to your phone or device.”
<snip>
One way to get internet access for your computer is by using a smartphone as a hotspot. A new company, mintmobile, offers various plans, starting with 3gb/$15/mo. To 12gb/$25/mo.
https://www.mintmobile.com/plans/
Of course that's the intro rate...
And their cheapest smart phone is $54
https://phones.mintmobile.com/ZTE-Avid-Trio-LTE.html
Here's a coverage map:
https://www.mintmobile.com/coverage/
It's a 4g connection, up to 12mbps.
So, if you're angry at your current provider and are considering changing....
Once you visit their website, it's purely coincidental that their ads appear on other pages...yes?
[John is still using his freedompop hotspot instead of spending more, as above]
http://m.cnn.com/en/article/h_6d175135d262b04966da9bb98e33247f
Marie Kondo tries to get my digital life in order Thu January 31, 2019 New York (CNN Business) - On a recent Saturday morning, while my wife and infant slept in their peaceful, newly uncluttered rooms, I opened my laptop, clicked "select all," and looked at the frightening total.
I knew it would be bad. I didn't realize "bad" meant there would be 27,897 files on my computer. Almost immediately, my resolve to get my digital life in order weakened. Then I heard Marie Kondo's voice in my head -- or more accurately, in my inbox. "The biggest mistake with digital tidying is focusing too much on what to discard," Kondo wrote me in an e-mail earlier that week, by way of a translator, by way of a publicist, by way of a naive hope that a Netflix star could rescue an overtired new parent from being buried alive in his own digital clutter. The focus, she told me, should be on "what's valuable to you and on what you want to keep in your life. "With that soothing advice in mind, I resumed my digital tidying.<snip>
https://www.fcc.gov/document/rosenworcel-releases-responses-call-robocall-blocking-tools
Home / EDOCS / Commission Documents /
Commissioner Jessica Rosenworcel Releases Responses to Her Call for Free Robocall Blocking Tools for Consumers
Bureau(s): Office of Commissioner Rosenworcel Files
https://qz.com/1525661/your-digital-identity-has-three-layers-and-you-can-only-protect-one-of-them/
WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE?
Your digital identity has three layers, and you can only protect one of them
By Katarzyna Szymielewicz January 25, 2019
Co-founder of Panoptykon Foundation
Your online profile is less a reflection of you than a caricature.
Whether you like it or not, commercial and public actors tend to trust the string of 1s and 0s that represent you more than the story you tell them. When filing a credit application at a bank or being recruited for a job, your social network, credit-card history, and postal address can be viewed as immutable facts more credible than your opinion.
But your online profile is not always built on facts. It is shaped by technology companies and advertisers who make key decisions based on their interpretation of seemingly benign data points: what movies you choose to watch, the time of day you tweet, or how long you take to click on a cat video.
Many decisions that affect your life are now dictated by the interpretation of your data profile rather than personal interactions. And it’s not just about advertising banners influencing the brand of the soap you buy—the same mechanics of profiling users and targeting messages apply to political campaigns and visa applications as much as supermarket metrics. When advertising looks like news and news look like entertainment, all types of content are profiled on the basis of your data.
So what story does your data tell about you?<snip>
https://www.nytimes.com/2019/01/28/technology/personaltech/facetime-bug-iphone-hack.html
FaceTime Bug Lets iPhone Users Eavesdrop, in a Stumble for Apple The FaceTime bug could also give a caller access to a live feed of the recipient’s camera.
By Brian X. Chen Jan. 28, 2019
SAN FRANCISCO — The iPhone as an eavesdropping device? Watch out. It can happen.
On Monday, Twitter and other social networking sites lit up with anxious Apple users after the news site 9to5Mac reported on a strange glitch in the company’s iPhones. The issue: It turns out that an iPhone user can call another iPhone user and listen in on that person’s conversations through the device’s microphone — even if the recipient does not answer the call.
The problem was the result of a bug and involves Apple’s FaceTime app for placing video and audio calls over an internet connection. The bug could also give a caller access to a live feed of the recipient’s camera.
On Monday night, Apple said it had disabled Group FaceTime, the feature that was causing the glitch.
The glitch is embarrassing for Apple, which is set to report disappointing financial earnings on Tuesday. The Silicon Valley company has long positioned itself as a protector of user privacy offering more secure devices than its rivals.<snip>
https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/blogs/techftc/2016/03/time-rethink-mandatory-password-changes
Home » News & Events » Blogs » Tech@FTC » Time to rethink mandatory password changes Time to rethink mandatory password changes
By: Lorrie Cranor, Chief Technologist | Mar 2, 2016 Data security is a process that evolves over time as new threats emerge and new countermeasures are developed. The FTC’s longstanding advice to companies has been to conduct risk assessments, taking into account factors such as the sensitivity of information they collect and the availability of low-cost measures to mitigate risks. The FTC has also advised companies to keep abreast of security research and advice affecting their sector, as that advice may change. What was reasonable in 2006 may not be reasonable in 2016. This blog post provides a case study of why keeping up with security advice is important. It explores some age-old security advice that research suggests may not be providing as much protection as people previously thought.<snip>
https://www.nytimes.com/2019/01/27/opinion/2fa-cyberattacks-security.html
Opinion
Two-Factor Authentication Might Not Keep You Safe The online security “best practice” is still vulnerable to phishing attacks.
By Josephine Wolff Jan. 27, 2019
Ms. Wolff is an assistant professor at the Rochester Institute of Technology.
Here’s how two-factor authentication is supposed to work: You log in to your bank account or email inbox, and after correctly entering your password, you are prompted to confirm the login through an app on your cellphone, a one-time code sent to you via text message or email, a physical YubiKey device or even a phone call. That app, text message, email, YubiKey or phone call is your “second factor,” intended to ensure that even if the person trying to log in isn’t really you, he or she still can’t gain access to your accounts without access to your phone or YubiKey.
You might find two-factor authentication mildly irritating, and there’s a chance you might not even notice the extra step in the login process anymore. Regardless, you probably feel a certain comfort in the idea that at least your money or your inbox is well protected. But like so many other commonly accepted best practices in computer security, we actually know very little about how well two-factor authentication works.<snip>
https://www.theverge.com/2019/1/25/18197356/t-mobile-600mhz-mobile-hotspot-coolpad-surf
T-Mobile’s new 600MHz hot spot is intended to provide broadband to rural customers By Dami Lee Jan 25, 2019 Today, T-Mobile announced the launch of the Coolpad Surf, a 600MHz mobile hot spot that’s aiming to bring service to rural areas. It’s the first mobile hot spot to support Band 71, or 600MHz LTE, which T-Mobile recently won the spectrum license for from the Federal Communications Commission Broadcast Incentive auction last April. A number of phones have been released with Band 71 support since then, including the iPhone XS and XR, Samsung Galaxy S9, and the OnePlus 6T. T-Mobile says that Band 71 is designed to provide better coverage for rural customers, which has traditionally been a weak point for the carrier.
The Coolpad Surf (which is a sick name), has a 2,150mAh battery that can last up to 48 hours on standby and gets around five hours of use on one charge. It can be used with up to 15 devices at once. In addition to support for Band 71, it also offers support for 4G LTE Bands 2, 4, 12, and 66, and 3G Bands 1, 2, and 4. The device costs $72, and data plans start at $10 a month for 2GB of data and go up to $85 a month for 22GB of data.
T-Mobile plans to bring the hot spot to its budget brand Metro later this month, only it’ll go by the less cool name of MetroSMART Hotspot, with different pricing and data plans.
The Coolpad Surf is available now on T-Mobile’s website:
https://www.t-mobile.com/internet-device/coolpad-surf
https://www.washingtonpost.com/outlook/2019/01/28/big-tech-firms-still-dont-care-about-your-privacy/
Big tech firms still don’t care about your privacy <snip> Unfortunately, you’re not reading this on Earth 2, and we don’t live in that privacy-sensitive marketplace. So you shouldn’t be surprised if we “celebrate” the faux-liday of Data Privacy Day by learning about yet another data breach.
Maybe it’ll be an epic-scale incident involving hundreds of millions of people, a few million passports included. Perhaps it will be a more mundane breach that exposes only names, email addresses and encrypted passwords that you please please please didn’t use elsewhere. Or it could be a boutique breach that compromises only credit cards that you can easily replace.
The one thing it won’t be is a surprise. Because unlike Data Privacy Day, data breaches happen a lot more than once a year.
====== Links from 1-25-2019 email ==========================
How Can I Make the Text on My Screen Larger?
https://askleo.com/8936
https://motherboard.vice.com/en_us/article/vbwgw8/zumigo-phone-location-data-sold-lobbied-fcc-consent
SURVEILLANCE
By Joseph Cox and Jason Koebler Jan 23 2019
Data Broker That Sold Phone Locations Used by Bounty Hunters Lobbied FCC to Scrap User Consent Zumigo, which sold the location data of American cell phone users, wanted the FCC to remove requirements around user consent.
Earlier this month Motherboard showed how T-Mobile, AT&T, and Sprint were selling cell phone users’ location data that ultimately ended up in the hands of bounty hunters and people unauthorized to handle it. That data trickled down from the telecommunications giants through a complex network of middlemen and data brokers. One of those third parties was Zumigo, a company that gets location data access directly from the telcos and then sells it for a profit.<snip>
https://www.uvm.edu/uvmnews/news/study-facebook-and-twitter-your-privacy-risk-even-if-you-dont-have-account
UVM TODAY
Study: On Facebook And Twitter Your Privacy Is At Risk—Even If You Don't Have An Account by JOSHUA E. BROWN PUBLISHED 01-21-2019
Identity and actions can be predicted from friends—undermining idea of 'individual choice' on social media A new study shows that privacy on social media is like second-hand smoke. It's controlled by the people around you.
Individual choice has long been considered a bedrock principle of online privacy. If you don't want to be on Facebook, you can leave or not sign up in the first place. Then your behavior will be your own private business, right?
The new study presents powerful evidence that the answer to that question is no.
The team of scientists, from the University of Vermont and the University of Adelaide, gathered more than thirty million public posts on Twitter from 13,905 users. With this data, they showed that information within the Twitter messages from 8 or 9 of a person's contacts make it possible to predict that person's later tweets as accurately as if they were looking directly at that person's own Twitter feed.<snip>
https://askbobrankin.com/geekly_update_23_january_2019.html
Less than a year remains on Windows 7’s free security updates. After January 14, 2020, those who cling to that obsolete operating system will be ever more likely to be hacked or infected with malware. Windows 7 was released in July 2009, and is still in use on 37% of all desktop computers.<snip> [John says your clicking habits are more important than updates]
https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/how-to-send-free-text-messages-online/
SENDING TEXTS VIA EMAIL
You can send a SMS to a mobile phone without the need of a third-party service — you can do so directly within your email client by emailing the right carrier. Don’t know what mobile carrier your friend uses?
Find out here: https://www.carrierlookup.com/ Our system is setup to only allow 1 lookup per day. If you need to do more lookups you can easily purchase more lookup credits.
For quick reference, we’ve put together a list of some of the most common U.S. service providers and their corresponding gateway addresses below. However, keep in mind there are different addresses for regular messages (SMS) and those that include photos and other media (MMS). For more information, check out our full article on how to send a text message via email.
SMS Gateway MMS Gateway
Alltel @text.wireless.alltel.com @mms.alltelwireless.com
AT&T @txt.att.net @mms.att.net
Boost Mobile @sms.myboostmobile.com @myboostmobile.com
Sprint @messaging.sprintpcs.com @pm.sprint.com
T-Mobile @tmomail.net @tmomail.net
U.S. Cellular @email.uscc.net @mms.uscc.net
Verizon @vtext.com @vzwpix.com
Virgin Mobile @vmobl.com @vmpix.com
Note: For T-Mobile, include “1,” which is the U.S. country code, before the phone number.
https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/how-to-send-a-text-from-your-email-account/
<snip>
https://askbobrankin.com/irony_us_postal_service_fosters_id_theft.html
The U. S. Postal Service’s heart is in the right place but its head seems to be elsewhere. A free USPS service called “Informed Delivery” intended to cut down on mail fraud has actually been used by ID thieves to run up bogus credit card bills in victims' names. Security researchers say the weak identity verification used by USPS made the scam possible. Here is how the scam works, what you can do to protect yourself, and what USPS should have done in the first place. <snip>
====== Links from 1-18-2019 email ==========================
http://time.com/collection-post/5502591/tim-cook-data-privacy/
TECH
You Deserve Privacy Online. Here’s How You Could Actually Get It
Tim Cook Jan. 16, 2019 Cook is CEO of Apple
We all deserve control over our digital lives. That’s why we must rein in the data brokers
In 2019, it’s time to stand up for the right to privacy—yours, mine, all of ours. Consumers shouldn’t have to tolerate another year of companies irresponsibly amassing huge user profiles, data breaches that seem out of control and the vanishing ability to control our own digital lives.
This problem is solvable—it isn’t too big, too challenging or too late. Innovation, breakthrough ideas and great features can go hand in hand with user privacy—and they must. Realizing technology’s potential depends on it.
That’s why I and others are calling on the U.S. Congress to pass comprehensive federal privacy legislation—a landmark package of reforms that protect and empower the consumer. Last year, before a global body of privacy regulators, I laid out four principles that I believe should guide legislation:<snip>
http://www.startribune.com/how-to-stream-pc-music-to-another-device/504391662/
How to stream PC music to another device -- Making the connection between a PC and a Blu-ray player is easier than it sounds.
By Steve Alexander JANUARY 16, 2019
Q: I’m trying to stream music from my Windows 10 PC to my Samsung Blu-ray player (model BD-J5700) using the Windows “cast to device” feature. When I did this with my previous PC, the music went over my home Wi-Fi network to my Blu-ray player, then played on my TV’s stereo speakers.
But with this PC, the “cast to device” software doesn’t seem to recognize the Blu-ray player, even though both the player and PC are connected to the Wi-Fi network. I’m being told to “follow the directions in the DLNA installation/instruction manual to set up devices and files,” but I don’t know what that means. What should I do?<snip>
https://techcrunch.com/2019/01/15/another-huge-database-exposed-millions-of-call-logs-and-sms-text-messages/
Another huge database exposed millions of call logs and SMS text messages
Zack Whittaker 1-15-2019
An unprotected server storing millions of call logs and text messages was left open for months before they were found by a security researcher.
If you thought you’d heard this story before, you’re not wrong. Back in November, another telecoms company, Voxox, exposed a database containing millions of text messages — including password resets and two-factor codes.
This time around, it’s a different company: Voipo, a Lake Forest, Calif. communications provider, exposed tens of gigabytes worth of customer data.
Security researcher Justin Paine found the exposed database last week, and reached out to the company’s chief technology officer. Yet, the database was pulled offline before Paine even told him where to look.<snip>
http://www.bbc.com/future/story/20190104-are-you-a-digital-hoarder
Digital Psychology
Why it pays to declutter your digital life
If we feel overwhelmed by ‘stuff’, most of us believe physical clutter is the culprit. But researchers are finding that having too many digital files could be the problem, too.
By Kelly Oakes 7 January 2019
I have a confession: there are 20,577 unread emails in my inbox, 31,803 photos on my phone and 18 browser tabs currently open on my laptop. Digital clutter has invaded my life and I have no idea what to do with it.
With the storage capacity of our devices increasing with every upgrade and cloud storage plans costing peanuts, it might not seem like a problem to hold on to thousands of emails, photos, documents and various other digital belongings.
But emerging research on digital hoarding – a reluctance to get rid of the digital clutter we accumulate through our work and personal lives – suggests that it can make us feel just as stressed and overwhelmed as physical clutter. Not to mention the cybersecurity problems it can cause for individuals and businesses and the way it makes finding that one email you need sometimes seem impossible.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/269331/how-to-disable-all-of-windows-10s-built-in-advertising/
How to Disable All of Windows 10’s Built-in Advertising
Chris Hoffman April 4, 2017
Windows 10 has a lot of built-in advertising. This isn’t just about the free upgrade offer: Even if you purchase a new PC that comes with a Windows 10 license or spend $200 for a copy of Windows 10 Professional, you’ll see ads in your operating system. You can, however, disable a lot of it.<snip>
https://www.howtogeek.com/255540/the-last-windows-7-iso-youll-ever-need-how-to-slipstream-the-convenience-rollup/
The Last Windows 7 ISO You’ll Ever Need: How to Slipstream the Convenience Rollup
Chris Hoffman July 5, 2017
Microsoft has finally released a “Convenience Rollup” for Windows 7 that combines updates from the past few years into one package (like a service pack). Microsoft doesn’t offer ISO images with these updates integrated, but you can create your own in a few simple steps.
That way, whenever you install a fresh copy of Windows 7 in the future, you won’t have to wait for it to download several years worth of updates (and reboot multiple times). It’ll have everything it needs up through May 2016.<snip>
https://edu.gcfglobal.org/en/subjects/tech/
Technology
Intimidated by computers? New to email or the web? Want to stay safe online or understand how your operating system works? Learn all of this and more in our Technology section.
Office 2016
Excel 2016
Word 2016
PowerPoint 2016
Access 2016
Beyond Email
Email Basics
Gmail
Chrome
Firefox
Internet Basics
Internet Explorer
Internet Tips
Tech Savvy Tips and Tricks
Use Information Correctly
Using the Web to Get Stuff Done
Safari
Edge
Prezi
Etsy
Dropbox
Search Better
Linux Mint Resources
Ubuntu Resources
Internet Safety
Internet Safety for Kids
Computer Basics
Basic Computer Skills
Mouse Tutorial
Typing Tutorial
Computer Science
macOS Basics
Windows Basics
Windows 10
Windows 8
Windows 7
Windows XP
Windows 98
https://askbobrankin.com/read_millions_of_free_ebooks.html
The Internet makes available more good books, old and new, than one person can read in a lifetime. Here are a few examples of where you can find quality reads free of charge...
There has never been a better, easier, cheaper time to be a bibliophile. If you don’t know that word, that’s OK; this article is for people who like books, too. Here are five sources for free ebooks:<snip>
http://www.wififreespot.com/
The State pages listed below have an alphabetical listing of Cities and Towns. Publicly accessible locations like cafes, restaurants, etc. are listed first and Hotels, Inns and other accommodation type listings are at the end of the Free Wi-Fi location listings.
[I could not email them to suggest they list our municipal buildings with free wifi]
====== Links from 1-11-2019 email ==========================
http://m.startribune.com/the-deepfake-threat-is-coming-to-a-computer-screen-near-you/504022952/
Opinion Exchange
The 'deepfake' threat is coming to a computer screen near you
By Editorial , Washington Post January 07, 2019 -
A despairing prediction for the digital future came from an unlikely source recently. Speaking of "deepfakes," or media manipulated through artificial intelligence, the actress Scarlett Johansson told the Washington Post that "the internet is a vast wormhole of darkness that eats itself." A stark view, no doubt, but when it comes to deepfakes, it may not be entirely unmerited. The ability to use machine learning to simulate an individual saying or doing almost anything poses personal and political risks that societies around the world are ill-equipped to guard against.
Johansson's comments appeared in a report in the Post about how individuals' faces, and celebrities' faces in particular, are grafted onto pornographic videos and passed around the web -- sometimes to blackmail, sometimes just to humiliate. But deepfakes could also have applications in information warfare. A foreign adversary hoping to influence an election could plant a doctored clip of a politician committing a gaffe. Convincingly edited video could confuse military officers in the field. The ensuing uncertainty could also be exploited to undermine journalistic credibility; tomorrow's deepfake may be today's "fake news."<snip>
https://www.phonearena.com/news/Scam-callers-try-to-take-over-your-wireless-account_id111791
Be wary of callers claiming to be from Verizon telling you to reset your phone for 5G coverage
Posted: 09 Dec 2018, by Alan Friedman
Just because someone claims to be from Verizon when you answer the phone doesn't make it true. And based on this report published today, the call could end up hitting you in the wallet or purse. For example, consider what happened to a Delaware resident who received a call from someone claiming to work for Verizon. Surely not by coincidence, the call was made to a smartphone belonging to a Verizon customer.
The fake Verizon employee told the recipient of the call that Verizon was switching from 4G to 5G and to expect service disruptions over the next few days. He then told the Verizon customer that to keep service going during the switch-over, she would need to reset her password.<snip>
https://www.vox.com/culture/2018/3/22/17146776/delete-facebook-how-to-quit-difficult
How Facebook made it impossible to delete Facebook We’ve adapted our entire culture around Facebook. That makes “just quitting” easier said than done.
By Aja Romano Dec 20, 2018
Amid staggering new reports of Facebook both intentionally sharing and unintentionally leaking the private information of its users, questions about how much regulation and oversight Facebook needs are once again surfacing — and many users are feeling the urge to quit the platform altogether.
To say Facebook has had a rough time of it lately would be putting it mildly. Between its inconclusive efforts to tackle Russian bots and other forms of political manipulation, its ongoing “fake news” woes, its controversial politics, its role in facilitating hate speech and exacerbating hate crimes, and its friction with authorities over its many data breaches, the social media giant is caught in a public reckoning that is perhaps long overdue.
But Facebook users, in the middle of what seems to be a moment of broader cultural backlash against social media and technology, are also clearly grappling with the ramifications of their use of the platform.<snip>
http://nymag.com/intelligencer/2018/12/how-much-of-the-internet-is-fake.html
LIFE IN PIXELS DEC. 26, 2018
How Much of the Internet Is Fake? Turns Out, a Lot of It, Actually.
By Max Read
<snip> How much of the internet is fake? Studies generally suggest that, year after year, less than 60 percent of web traffic is human; some years, according to some researchers, a healthy majority of it is bot. For a period of time in 2013, the Times reported this year, a full half of YouTube traffic was “bots masquerading as people,” a portion so high that employees feared an inflection point after which YouTube’s systems for detecting fraudulent traffic would begin to regard bot traffic as real and human traffic as fake. They called this hypothetical event “the Inversion.” <snip>
http://askbobrankin.com/abr-security-preview.pdf
INTERNET SECURITY: Everything You Need to Know (80-page ebook)
https://askbobrankin.com/send_free_text_messages_with_or_without_a_phone.html
Send Free Text Messages, With or Without a Phone!
Category: Mobile , Telephony
If your mobile phone carrier charges you to send or receive a text, here's good news. There are several ways to send a free text message, and with some of them you don't even need a mobile phone. If you've ever wanted to send a quick text message and you didn't have a phone handy... or there's no cellular service where you are... or you hate paying international texting rates, read on!
How to Send Text Messages For Free
Text messaging is a wildly popular feature of cell phones, and one of the industry's fattest cash cows. But ironically, the growing popularity of smartphones is threatening the enormously profitable SMS text message, as free text messaging services that use data connections challenge traditional cellular SMS service.
Text messages brought a whopping $20 billion to cell phone companies last year; Verizon alone earned $7 billion in text message revenue. Profit margins are high, too. The cost of delivering a text message is estimated at one-third of a cent. Most wireless operators charge 10 to 20 cents per text message, or a flat monthly rate of around $20 for unlimited text messaging. International text messages can cost even more.<snip>
====== Links from 12-21-2018 email ==========================
http://m.cnn.com/en/article/h_bc8448e70df4b19fb08687796388e41c
Why your internet choices just got narrower Updated, Mon December 17, 2018
Editor's Note: Mitchell Baker is co-founder and chair of the Mozilla Foundation and the Mozilla Corporation. The views expressed here are the author's.
(CNN) - Microsoft recently gave up on developing its own browser technology, opting to use Google's instead. News coverage focused on how Microsoft was waving the "white flag" to Google after losing a popularity contest, but some stories also noted how Microsoft's action might lead to a better browsing experience for consumers on Windows.<snip>
Thanks to Dwight Lindberg for the presentation on installing windows 10 after upgrading the harddrive...AND additional system memory REALLY helps!
Here's related links:
http://support.lenovo.com/us/en/videos/vid100788
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/10749/windows-10-find-product-key
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/20530/windows-10-reactivating-after-hardware-change
https://www.crucial.com/?cm_re=us-top-nav-_-us-flyout-memory-_-us-memory-home
Links from AskLeo:
It's not a secret that I'm a big fan of cloud storage, and Dropbox in particular. If you have a smartphone and take pictures with it, automated upload is one reason why.
Back Up Smartphone Photos Using Dropbox
https://askleo.com/17803
Find a file you're itching to delete, but you're just not sure if you should? You'll want to read Is it Safe to Delete This File? to figure out if, and how, you can, safely.
Is it Safe to Delete This File?
https://askleo.com/2841
I'm seeing more occurrences of external drives that when plugged in make the connection sound but still don't appear in Windows File Explorer.
Why Doesn't My External Drive Appear When Plugged In?
https://askleo.com/23541
I talk about backing up all the time. I talk about backing up your email frequently as well. If you use webmail you can't rely on the provider's own backups (they're not made for you anyway); you need to back it up yourself.
Back Up Your Email Using Thunderbird
https://askleo.com/17883
Last week I said that it's no secret that I'm a big fan of cloud storage, and Dropbox in particular. This week I go into detail as to why I'm using it more than ever. Perhaps my thought process will help you decide if, and which, cloud service might work for you.
Five Reasons I Went All-in with Dropbox
https://askleo.com/64326
Do I Need to Update My BIOS Regularly?
https://askleo.com/3010
Terms we take for granted, but often misuse? While the difference might seem pedantic, do you know the difference between the web and the internet?
What's the Difference Between the Web and the Internet?
https://askleo.com/64587
We've all seen it, but just what the heck does it mean? Internal Server Error is usually out of our control, but there are a few things we can try to get past it.
What's an "Internal Server Error" and How Do I Fix It?
https://askleo.com/2649
Web-based or desktop-based email? It's not quite a religious argument, but there are definitely some pros and cons to each. The difference is worth understanding, particularly when it comes to backing up.
What are the Pros and Cons of Web-based Email Over Desktop Email?
https://askleo.com/4203
In recent weeks, I've seen calls from several sources suggesting that Microsoft stop, take a breath, and seriously review their update process. I agree. This madness must end. Or at least slow down.
Microsoft, We Deserve Better
https://askleo.com/65097
While I'm ranting, how about "free speech"? It's not what you think it is, and it doesn't apply in all the places you think it does.
What are the Internet's Rules about Free Speech?
https://askleo.com/10916
Finally, let me offer up some ideas on where those Facebook friend suggestions come from. As weird as they probably seem, if you look deeper they kinda make sense (even if they are still annoying). I don't know about you, but I feel better.
Where Do Facebook Friend Suggestions Come From?
https://askleo.com/4168
====== Links from 12-14-2018 email ==========================
Busting Some Facebook Myths
https://askleo.com/62913
Email Hacked? 7 Things You Need to Do NOW
https://askleo.com/5415
Can My ISP See I'm Using a VPN?
https://askleo.com/5381
How Do I Recover My Facebook Password?
https://askleo.com/4388
Can I Use a Charger that Provides the Same Voltage but a Different Amperage?
https://askleo.com/5276
How Do I Send an Email that Can't Be Traced Back to Me?
https://askleo.com/5369
BoxCryptor: Secure Your Data in the Cloud
https://askleo.com/5722
How Do I Upgrade Windows from 32-bit to 64-bit?
https://askleo.com/5031
====== Links from 12-7-2018 email ==========================
https://askleo.com/gmails-confidential-mode-isnt/
https://askleo.com/just_how_secure_is_email_anyway/
Can I Convert an External USB Hard Drive into an Internal One?
https://askleo.com/3121
Why is there so much spam? It's very simple, really. Spam works.
https://askleo.com/2534
====== Links from 11-30-2018 email ==========================
Do "Fix All Your Windows Problems" Utilities Work?
https://askleo.com/2815
Are there some programs which really are the cure-alls they claim to be?
To quote the old aphorism: “If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.”
Why Does a Scan of a Simple Text Document Result in Such a Large File?
https://askleo.com/6165
Your Router's Two IP Addresses
https://askleo.com/61473
I was completely unaware that your router has two IP addresses.
Indeed it does.
It's an important part of understanding how information travels between your computer and the internet services you use.
It's also important to know when asking questions and interpreting answers.
How Do I Remove My Personal Data from My Computer Running Windows 10?
https://askleo.com/62298
I'm very tempted to simply say you can't.
It's exceptionally difficult to do. Windows stores so much information in so many nooks and crannies, it's nearly impossible to know what to delete and from where.
Let's look at a couple of approaches.
Where is Windows Defender's Vault?
https://askleo.com/3487
I don't know where on disk the files are stored. Fortunately, that doesn't matter, since you can use Windows Defender itself to manage the contents of the vault. Even better, you probably don't need to do a thing.
How Can I Send a Document to Someone Securely?
https://askleo.com/5659
While there are many approaches, there's really only one pragmatic approach.
Backing Up a Machine that Won't Boot
https://askleo.com/61716
Your most recent work seems to be locked up inside a hard drive you can't access.
There may be a way to back it up before dealing with the crash.
Is it Safe to Share My Internet Connection with My Neighbor?
https://askleo.com/4920
What's the Difference Between Hotmail.com, Msn.com, Live.com and Now Outlook.com?
https://askleo.com/4384
====== Links from 11-21-2018 email ==========================
https://askleo.com/why_doesnt_blocking_email_senders_work/
Blocking email by the “From:” address is seriously overrated; it's effectively useless.
It promises to prevent email from a specific sender from reaching you, but if the sender determined, the block is easily bypassed. And spammers are determined … boy, are they determined! Blocking senders is useless in the war against spam.
I'll explain why, and what I do instead.
What's a Relay Server?
Relaying is a fundamental way that email travels from your outbox to your recipient's inbox.
https://askleo.com/46737
Should I Turn My Computer Off at Night?
There are two issues at play here: the power used by a computer left running 24 hours a day, and the stress on hardware components being repeatedly turned off and on.
https://askleo.com/2968
How Do I Get Rid of All this Spam?!?!
https://askleo.com/1880
Why Does My Network Not Work After Resuming from Standby?
https://askleo.com/2790
Why Do Windows Updates Mess Up My Computer?
https://askleo.com/60272
Does Getting Porn Spam Mean You've Been Surfing Porn Sites?
https://askleo.com/4226
Why I (Still) Don't Like Challenge/Response Spam Blockers
https://askleo.com/4714
How Do I Uninstall and Reinstall Internet Explorer in Windows 10?
https://askleo.com/60920
What External Drive Should I Get?
https://askleo.com/17616
What Can a Website I Visit Tell About Me?
https://askleo.com/3509
====== Links from 11-9-2018 email ==========================
https://www.pcmag.com/article/360173/how-to-download-your-facebook-data-and-6-surprising-things
https://www.pcmag.com/feature/359951/how-to-prevent-facebook-from-sharing-your-personal-data
https://www.pcmag.com/article/360238/how-to-manage-your-google-privacy-settings
Be sure to delete browser cookies and clear your browser history on a regular basis. It's easy. In Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Internet Explorer, or Opera, simply press Ctrl+Shift+Del to bring up a dialog that lets you choose which elements of browser data you want to clear.
https://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2480401,00.asp
https://lifehacker.com/the-comprehensive-guide-to-quitting-google-1830001964
The Comprehensive Guide to Quitting Google by Brendan Hesse
Despite all the convenience and quality of Google’s sprawling ecosystem, some users are fed up with the fishy privacy policies the company has recently implemented in Gmail, Chrome, and other services. To its credit, Google has made good changes in response to user feedback, but that doesn’t diminish the company’s looming shadow over the internet at large. If you’re ready to ditch Google, or even just reduce its presence in your digital life, this guide is here to help.
Since Google owns some of the best and most-used apps, websites, and internet services, making a clean break is difficult—but not impossible. We’re going to take a look at how to leave the most popular Google services behind, and how to keep Google from tracking your data. We’ve also spent serious time researching and testing great alternatives to Google’s offerings, so you can leave the Big G without having to buy new devices or swear fealty to another major corporation.
Things get sketchy when the entity overseeing [a tech] ecosystem starts dipping into your data or manipulating your experience.
Our Goal Is Decentralization
Google, Apple, Microsoft, and other similar companies offer “ecosystems”—centralized, cross-platform software and hardware suites where all your devices can connect and sync with the same data and apps.
These ecosystems are extremely convenient, but they can pose security risks. While centralization isn’t the issue, per se, things get sketchy when the entity overseeing that ecosystem starts dipping into your data or manipulating your experience.
That’s why, for the majority of this guide, we’ll be looking at how to decentralize your digital presence with third-party and open-source solutions (though alternatives from Apple, Microsoft, and other companies will be discussed where appropriate, as well as some Google compromises you can make).
For all the benefits of going open-source, there are also tradeoffs: While you’ll be out from under the monolithic shadow of peering tech companies, you’ll also be trading in the full interconnection, synchronization, and data consolidation you get from catch-all ecosystems like Google’s.
However, with a little time and effort, you can MacGyver a decent cross-platform system for yourself. Let’s get started.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2473745,00.asp
article about Yahoo search, found in firefox.
Why You Should Use Yahoo Search (No, Really)
The fact that you don't use Yahoo for anything else may be its best quality.
By Evan Dashevsky December 19, 2014
Last month, Firefox announced that it was switching its default search from Google to Yahoo. The news was met with a tidal wave of meh. And that reaction was completely understandable. Many of you reading this have probably all but forgotten about both companies—particularly Yahoo—and mentally relegated them to being a thing that grandparents use to search for MapQuest directions in public libraries.
Until a few months ago, that was basically my opinion of Firefox and Yahoo. However, we here at PCMag recently rekindled our love affair with Firefox, and I'm here to tell you why you should at least consider reevaluating Yahoo.<snip>
https://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2486399,00.asp
How to Set Up and Use Google Docs Offline
You can work on your Google Drive files offline, but only if you take a few steps before you reach an Internet-free zone.
By Jill Duffy June 22, 2015
I recently started working entirely in the cloud. My work files live in Google Drive, and I use Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides for the majority of my business work.
One problem, which I mentioned when describing my transition to working entirely in the cloud in last week's column, is that working offline is possible but that requires setting it up ahead of time.
Sure, that sounds reasonable. Before you work offline, of course you need to set up a few things in advance! The problem happens when you don't realize you won't have Internet access. You know what they say about assumptions...
Maybe you board an airplane thinking there will be Wi-Fi, and there isn't. Or you arrive at a hotel where you expected Wi-Fi, but the ISP is down. What if a storm knocks out your Internet access at your home? Or maybe you were so excited about a trip to Tahiti that you plum forgot to set up offline access. It happens.
If you don't want this to happen to you, you need to set up Google Drive offline access now. Here's how.<snip>
https://www.ted.com/talks/finn_myrstad_how_tech_companies_deceive_you_into_giving_up_your_data_and_privacy
How tech companies deceive you into giving up your data and privacy
Editor's note: This talk was presented at a TED Salon event given in partnership with Samsung.
Have you ever actually read the terms and conditions for the apps you use? Finn Lützow-Holm Myrstad and his team at the Norwegian Consumer Council have, and it took them nearly a day and a half to read the terms of all the apps on an average phone. In a talk about the alarming ways tech companies deceive their users, Myrstad shares insights about the personal information you've agreed to let companies collect -- and how they use your data at a scale you could never imagine.<snip>
https://mn.gov/deed/newscenter/press-releases/?id=356330
DEED Launches Tool to Measure, Report Broadband Access
Check Speed Minnesota will give insight into consumer experience, inform policymakers
October 26, 2018 | Economic Development
ST PAUL - The Minnesota Office of Broadband Development, located within the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), today launched a new tool that will allow Minnesotans to test, map and report various broadband internet speeds across the state.
CheckSpeedMinnesota.com is a benchmarking tool designed to gather information about the high-speed internet consumer experience in Minnesota. By answering a few questions and running a speed test, the input captured will help create a better overall picture of broadband in the state.<snip>
Screen Mirroring and Casting
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miracast
John uses this: Elegiant -- https://www.amazon.com/ELEGIANT-Wireless-Mirroring-Receiver-Projector/dp/B075HDRYGP/ref=pd_lpo_vtph_504_lp_t_2
Miracast is extremely versatile and offers a host of mirroring capabilities. While it works with Android devices, it is especially useful for mirroring PCs. Like AirPlay, its Achilles’ heel is relying on your device’s internal resources, which ties it up and drains the battery. Still, if Android (and especially PC) mirroring is your game, Miracast-compatible devices may be worth checking into.
https://www.wi-fi.org/discover-wi-fi/miracast
How is Miracast related to Wi-Fi Direct?
Wi-Fi Direct allows devices to connect directly to each other, without the need for a Wi-Fi access point (AP). It simply requires the push of a button, the entry of a PIN, or tapping two NFC-capable devices together. Wi-Fi Direct allows source and display devices to discover one another and provides the underlying device-to-device connectivity for Miracast. Miracast builds upon Wi-Fi Direct with mechanisms to negotiate video capabilities, setup content protection (if needed), stream content, and maintain the video session.
====== Links from 11-2-2018 email ==========================
https://askleo.com/wheres_my_disk_space_going/
Disappearing disk space is a very common scenario.
Somehow, no matter how much we have, disk space never seems enough.
https://askleo.com/could-someone-set-up-a-facebook-account-in-my-name
https://askleo.com/why_does_my_microsoft_word_document_display_differently_on_different_computers/
https://askleo.com/fixing-windows-7-boot-problems
https://askleo.com/bank-account-hacked-good-security/
How Could My Bank Account Have Been Hacked if I Have Good Security?
https://askleo.com/whats_the_difference_between_a_router_a_wireless_router_and_a_wireless_access_point/
https://askleo.com/how_do_i_choose_a_good_password/
For those with short attention spans, I'll start with what you need to do differently, beginning yesterday.
In the past, the traditional advice on passwords was:
Eight characters long, minimally
Never use names or words, at least not without mangling them somehow Never use combinations of names or words, at least not without mangling them somehow Use a combination of upper and lowercase letters and digits Use at least one special character — something other than a letter or digit — if the system will let you Those rules are no longer sufficient. Even if you carefully follow them all you're left with a password that remains very susceptible to many types of compromises.<snip>
https://askleo.com/if_shutting_down_windows_cleanly_is_important_what_happens_when_the_power_just_goes_out
https://askleo.com/half-dozen-uses-onedrive/
What is OneDrive?
OneDrive is very similar to other cloud storage services, like DropBox, Google Drive, Box, and others.
At its most basic, it's simply file storage space on Microsoft's servers (aka “in the Cloud”). By storing files there, you can access them anywhere, from almost any device with an internet connection.
You can, of course, access your OneDrive files by visiting onedrive.com. Once you log in with your Microsoft account, all the files and folders you've added to OneDrive will be available to you, along with the ability to create more folders and upload more files.<snip>
http://time.com/5436566/google-docs-new-document-browser/
This New Trick Will Change How You Use Google Docs Forever
By Patrick Lucas Austin October 26, 2018
Google’s making it easier for everyone — especially power Google Docs users who spend their days in the company’s office software — to quickly start new projects right from the Chrome browser.
In a tweet a Google account, the company announced a new list of shortcuts to create documents, slideshow presentations, spreadsheets, sites, and forms right from your web browser. The best part? It works in any browser, not just Google Chrome.
You can type doc.new, docs.new, or document.new in your web browser to make a new Google Doc, just like you would type a website address. Use sheet.new, sheets.new, or spreadsheet.new for new Google Sheets. Forms.new or form.new will open a new Google Form. Make new Slides with slide.new, slides.new, or presentation.new. Site.new, sites.new, or website.new are for making new Google Sites.<snip>
====== Links from 10-26-2018 email ==========================
https://fossbytes.com/best-android-browsers/
10 Best Android Browsers To Enhance Your Web Browsing In 2018
December 25, 2017
best-web-browsers-android
Web Browsers are one of the most significant pieces of software on your device that serves as a window to access the World Wide Web. Mostly, a browser app is always pre-installed on every Android device. However, not all the browsers can provide you with a smooth and reliable browsing experience.
There are a lot of third-party web browsers available in the Play Store which can give a fast browsing experience and will consume as little data as possible. We have hand-picked ten best Android browsers which come with all the necessary features and top-notch performance.
Note: The list of browsers is just a compilation and not in order of preference. You’re advised to choose one that suits your needs.<snip>
https://fossbytes.com/best-android-file-manager-explorer-apps/
8 Best Android File Manager And File Explorer Apps Of 2018
Best file manager apps for Android
January 23, 2018
Android’s file manager app is a vital piece of software on the device. The user-visible file system allows you to browse files, downloads, manage storage space, move things around and lot more. Although some manufacturers pre-install an Android file manager app on their devices, they are not robust and lack many features compared to other third-party file managers. Here, we provide a list of 8 best file managers which are rich in features and also free to download.
Note: This list isn’t in order of preference; it’s a compilation of the best file explorers. You’re advised to choose one as per your need.<snip>
https://fossbytes.com/best-office-apps-android/
8 Best Android Office Apps To Boost Your Productivity In 2018
March 2, 2018
ANDROID PHONE APPS
Office application is an essential suite that allows you to create powerful spreadsheets, documents, presentations, etc., on a smartphone. Moreover, Android office apps come with cloud integration so that you can directly access the reports from the cloud, edit them, or save them online.
To meet the productivity need of Android users, the Play Store offers an extensive collection of Android office apps. But, we have saved you the hassle of going through each one of them and provide you a list of the best office apps for Android. The apps that we have picked are all free, although some do have Pro version or extra features available for in-app purchases. You can also refer to this list if you’re looking for Microsoft Office alternatives for your PC.
Note: This list isn’t in an order of preference; it’s a compilation of the best Android Office apps. You’re advised to choose one as per your need.<snip>
https://lifehacker.com/how-to-clear-your-search-history-off-of-googles-servers-1829966097
How to Clear Your Search History Off of Google's Servers With the Company's Latest Update
By Mike Epstein 10-24-2018
Google, one of the biggest stashers of our personal data, just updated Google Search—Aka Google-dot-com—to make it easier for you to review and edit what search data the company stores. The Google Search page now features a link below the search bar that will take you directly to a new data privacy hub that lets you scroll through and delete parts of whole swaths of your search history. It also gives you easy access to “Google-wide” controls, such as tracking activity on Google’s sites and ad personalization.<snip>
Upcoming at MicroCenter:
3710 Highway 100 South, St. Louis Park, MN 55416
Registration is required for workshops since space is limited;
Sign-up sheets are available only in-store at Tech Support or the Customer Service area.
Smartphones & Tablets Saturday, Oct. 27 and Sunday, Oct. 28 2:00 p.m.
Device functions, Product features, Display, battery life, Data storage and transfer, OS and applications, Carrier specific, unlocked, service features .
Form factor and accessories Build Your Own Saturday, Nov. 3 and Sunday, Nov. 4
2:00 p.m. Choosing components by specification Minimizing Electro-Static Discharge (ESD) Installing CPU and memory, Installing motherboard in case, Power connections and issues with ACPI, Installing video cards, hard disks, optical drives, System testing throughout build process
Upcoming Clinics
Saturday, 11/10 and Sunday, 11/11 » 2:00 p.m. - Back up & Restore
Saturday, 11/17 and Sunday, 11/18 » 2:00 p.m. - Windows 10 Basics
Saturday, 11/24 and Sunday, 11/25 » 2:00 p.m. - Thanksgiving. No Clinics.
Saturday, 12/1 and Sunday, 12/2 » 2:00 p.m. - No clinics until after the holidays.
Windows includes a feature in Windows 8 and 10, a “Metered Connection” option you can set for specific WiFi networks. To use this in Win 10, open the Settings app, select Network & Internet, choose Wi-Fi, choose “Manage known networks,” pick your phone’s hotspot, select Properties and enable “Set as metered connection.”
For windows 8.1:
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/17452/windows-metered-internet-connections-faq
http://foxfi.com/
Turn Android into free WiFi Hotspot (no root)
FoxFi is now part of PdaNet+, a top Android software downloaded by millions! PdaNet+ will provide you with multiple connection options - USB, WiFi and Bluetooth.
FoxFi enables WiFi Hotspot on your Android phone - no tether plan or rooting required! You can connect your tablets, computers or game console with WPA2 security. FoxFi usage is covered under your phone's existing data plan. Check to see if WiFi mode is supported on your phone model.
If WiFi mode is not supported on your phone model, please use USB mode or Bluetooth mode in PdaNet+ instead. It supports all phones.
http://pdanet.co/
PdaNet+ is one of the top Android applications of all time. PdaNet+ shares the Internet access of your Android phone with your computer or tablet. PdaNet+ works on all Android phones without rooting. It also does not require a tether plan, that will save you $20/month from most carriers.
PdaNet+ supports connection using WiFi, USB Tether or Bluetooth DUN. There is no speed limit in PdaNet+.
PdaNet+ for Android
Note: Free edition will interrupt your usage and requires you to turn back on.
https://lifehacker.com/5850476/how-can-i-tether-without-my-carrier-finding-out
Change the User Agent string on your web browser so that when you browse the internet using it, it just looks like it's the Android browser using the data connection.
How it's done (for Firefox):
Go into mozilla's address bar, type in "about:config", create a new string and name it "general.usreagent.override". Paste the info below as the value (only when tethering):
general.useragent.override;Mozilla/5.0 (Linux; U; Android 2.2.1; en-us; ADR6400L Build/FRG83D) AppleWebKit/533.1 (KHTML, like Gecko) Verzion/4.0 Mobile Safari/533.1
**Note- if you don't change it back to what it was before every time you're done tethering, some content on websites won't show up because the website thinks you're on a mobile device. Hulu, for example, won't load anything since it says your mobile device isn't supported (which really means the user agent string is doing its job).
OR, just dedicate a browser for that use and keep the User Agent settings for that purpose.
http://www.faveset.com/klink/faq#f14
Why does my computer not detect my phone?
These are common things to check (please check in the order listed):
Ensure that "USB debugging" is enabled on your phone.
Enable "USB debugging" manually as follows:
From your phone's home screen, press the Menu key.
Choose Settings.
Choose Applications.
Choose Development.
Enable USB debugging.
Users of Android 4.0+ Ice Cream Sandwich should enable USB debugging as follows:
From your phone's home screen, press the Menu key.
Choose Settings.
Choose Developer options.
Enable USB debugging.
Check your phone's USB connection type. Most phones will require that Android's USB connection type be set to a "Charge only" mode. A handful (mostly some Motorola devices) require that the type be set to USB storage mode.
Solution:
Connect your phone to your computer and make sure that "USB debugging" is enabled as described in the previous point.
Pull down the notification pane by swiping from top to bottom on your phone's screen.
Tap on the notification item called USB connection type.
Finally, experiment with the type. Most phones will require a "Charge only" mode. A few will require that a USB storage mode be activated instead, so try toggling until you see what is right for your phone.
Windows XP (possibly Vista/7) users. It might be necessary to kickstart Windows into seeing your device when it is connected. To do this:
First, enable USB debugging on your phone:
From your phone's home screen, press the Menu key.
Choose Settings > Applications > Development.
Turn on USB debugging.
Plug your phone into your computer.
Go to the Windows Device Manager by clicking on the Windows Start button. Choose Run (Search on Vista/7), and type in devmgmt.msc.
You should see a list of devices connected to your computer.
If Windows has drivers for your phone, the phone will be listed near the top as an "Android" or "ADB" device. You can stop if this applies to you, as Windows has installed the proper drivers for your phone.
If Windows is missing drivers for your phone, the phone will be listed under "Other devices". If this applies to you, please continue.
Right-click on the "Other device" that corresponds to your phone.
Choose "Update Driver..."
You should see a Windows Hardware Update Wizard appear. Let Windows search for and install drivers/software automatically, but decline any options about connecting online to Windows Update.
Windows should then take a few seconds to install the driver.
On Windows XP, this Hardware Update Wizard process may repeat automatically a few times, so repeat as necessary, waiting about 30-60 seconds for everything to settle down.
After doing this, Windows should identify your device as some sort of "Android" or "ADB" device near the top of the Device Manager list. Klink should now see your device.
If your phone is still not detected, it might help to power down and restart the device, especially if it was working previously. Unfortunately, some phones have buggy USB implementations and others overheat when used for too long, so be mindful of this possibility. (For example, you might want to keep the phone cool to see if that improves stability.)
====== Links from 10-19-2018 email ==========================
Thanks to Dwight Lindberg for showing the buddies his use of "Artist's Eye Free", an app which he got from Google Play for his android smart phone.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=karhulabs.daidlite
We viewed a short video demo, found here:
Artist's Eye drawing aid app for Android: https://youtu.be/q4MOFfspcq4 Dwight also found an app for his sister's iPhone which is similar:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/camera-lucida/id362499096?mt=8
And, searching for Lucida on google play, there are several similar apps:
https://play.google.com/store/search?q=lucida&c=apps&authuser
All of these allow you to trace/copy a picture on your smart phone to a drawing pad/surface.
http://m.startribune.com/my-good-life-how-i-fell-for-a-scam/497831971/
My Good Life: How I fell for a scam
By KATY READ , STAR TRIBUNE October 17, 2018
I got taken by what has since become one of the most ridiculously notorious scams out there: the fictional “Windows Repair Department.” Googling “windows repair scam” produces 12 million results. According to my rigorous scientific research (i.e., casual conversations and Facebook comments), almost everybody has gotten a call from them.<snip>
How to Tell if Your Email, Computer, or Facebook Has Been Hacked
https://askleo.com/3414
Every once in a while, things become corrupted on your hard disk in such a way that Windows 7 is unable to boot. From the MBR (Master Boot Record) to other information critical at boot time, if it's not there, you can't boot.
Fortunately, Windows includes diagnostic and repair tools on your Windows setup disc.
Fixing Windows 7 Boot Problems
https://askleo.com/42993
Why Does My Microsoft Word Document Display Differently on Different Computers?
https://askleo.com/2750
How Could My Bank Account Have Been Hacked if I Have Good Security?
https://askleo.com/42906
What's the Difference Between a Router, a Wireless Router, and a Wireless Access Point?
https://askleo.com/5056
How Do I Choose a Good Password?
https://askleo.com/5440
Why Did Deleting a Desktop Icon Delete the Program?
https://askleo.com/42528
I've looked at your answers for problems that seem like they relate to mine, but everything seems to be “check this” or “it might be that”. Why can't you just give me the specific steps I need to solve my problem? Why can't I get a straight answer?
https://askleo.com/42522
That's why I wrote an article on the topic: What Information Should I Provide When Asking for Help?
https://askleo.com/information-provide-asking-help
Your fan is a definite possibility, but first we should talk about … dust bunnies.
Continue Reading: My Computer Has Started to Shut Down Randomly. Could it Be the Fan?
https://askleo.com/42183
Recovery partitions not having a drive letter is actually a good thing.
How Do I View the Contents of My Hidden D: Drive?
https://askleo.com/42155
I Think I've Been "Phished", What Should I Do?
https://askleo.com/2734
https://askleo.com/phishing_how_to_know_it_when_you_see_it
https://askleo.com/ive_lost_the_password_to_my_windows_administrator_account_how_do_i_get_it_back
How Do I Gain Access to My Deceased Relative's Computer?
https://askleo.com/42081
Will a Hacked Website Leak My Email Address?
https://askleo.com/42075
Is it Safe to Just Turn Off an External USB Drive Without "Safely Removing" First?
https://askleo.com/3938
====== Links from 9-28-2018 email ==========================
John recommends the MUTE TAB extension for both Firefox and opera browsers. When you select it, it prevents you from hearing the undesired audio from "auto-play" videos on a web page. Just be sure to un-mute when you want to hear a Youtube video or something else.
https://addons.opera.com/en/extensions/details/mute-tab/
https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/mute-tab-webextension/?src=search
Senior Computer Buddy Robert Stryk passed along this tip:
Mozilla has some views about what can be done to protect privacy They’ve put together a list of 13 privacy extensions, all made to help give you more control of your personal information.
https://blog.mozilla.org/firefox/make-your-firefox-browser-a-privacy-superpower-with-these-extensions/
https://techcrunch.com/2018/09/24/security-experts-say-chrome-69s-forced-login-feature-violates-user-privacy/
Security experts say Chrome 69’s ‘forced login’ feature violates user privacy A new feature in the latest version of Google Chrome that logs users into the browser when they sign in to a Google site has come under fire.
Until recently, it was the user’s choice to log-in to the browser. Now, any time that you sign in to a Google site in Chrome 69 — like Google Search, Gmail or YouTube — Chrome will also log you in, too.
But the change has left users unclear why the “feature” was pushed on them in the first place. Many security folks have already panned the move as unwanted behavior, arguing it violates their privacy. Some users had good reasons not to want to be logged into Chrome, but now Chrome seems to takes that decision away from the user.<snip>
https://www.aarp.org/research/topics/economics/info-2018/digital-identity-protection.html
Up for Grabs: Taking Charge of Your Digital Identity AARP National Survey of Internet Users Age 18+ by Karla Pak, Doug Shadel, Alicia Williams, AARP Research, August 2018 | Comments: 0 Americans aren’t valuing their own digital identity Americans spend an increasing amount of online time shopping, managing their money and engaging in social media. Yet many are not always careful to protect their digital identity from being compromised, a new AARP survey finds.
To maximize safety online, security experts suggest people use unique passwords for their accounts, freeze their credit—not just when suspicious activity surfaces—and set up online access to their bank and credit card accounts to monitor them. AARP’s national survey of about 2,000 adults, however, finds that most are not taking these steps, leaving themselves vulnerable to fraud.
In the survey, AARP quizzed adults by asking eight questions intended to gauge how savvy they were about managing their digital identity. Nearly three-quarters (73%) failed the quiz, answering half or fewer of the questions correctly. (Take the quiz to test your online security smarts.) <snip>
====== Links from 9-21-2018 email ==========================
https://www.pcworld.com/article/3280998/laptop-computers/chromebooks-versus-windows-laptops-which-should-you-buy.html
Chromebooks versus Windows laptops: Which should you buy?
In the fight between a Google Chrome OS-powered Chromebook and a Microsoft Windows PC, it boils down to cost versus convenience.
By Mark Hachman Senior Editor, PCWorld Aug 27, 2018
Table of Contents
•What’s the difference between a Chromebook and a PC?
•Is a Chromebook or laptop better for office work?
•Which is better for web browsing, a Chromebook or Windows PC?
•Can a Chromebook play games as well as a Windows PC?
•Which offers more apps, Chromebooks or Windows PCs?
•What’s it like using a Chromebook versus a Windows PC?
•Which is more secure, a Chromebook or a Windows PC?
•Which Chromebook or laptop should I buy?
•Which is better, a Chromebook or laptop?
Should I buy a Chromebook or a Windows laptop? Whether you’re seeking out the best computer for your child or just weighing which inexpensive computer is right for your home, considering a Chrome OS-powered Chromebook as a PC alternative is a smart choice—and we can help you choose the right one.
Who should buy a Windows PC?
A notebook PC powered by Microsoft Windows offers several advantages: Windows offers the most flexibility to run just about any app, as well as the choice of any browser you choose. You can tweak and configure your PC as you choose.
Windows laptops for the budget buyer
That convenience demands more computing horsepower, and often a higher price compared to most Chromebooks. Prices can soar into the thousands of dollars, and if you need a powerful PC for gaming or video editing, Chromebooks really don’t offer that much competition. But you’ll find some great deals among our more affordably priced, top Windows picks.
Who should buy a Chromebook?
A Chromebook powered by Google’s Chrome OS is a simpler, more optimized affair, a locked-down PC that’s little more than the Chrome browser—but it can be hundreds of dollars cheaper than a comparable Windows PC, too. Updates occur behind the scenes, so you can just open the lid and go. Google handles all the security, too. The Internet offers much of what you’ll need, whether it be working within web apps or Chrome plugins. But it’s the workarounds and little inconveniences that you may find annoying in the end.
If you’d like, read on to dive deeper into the differences between the two, as well as some recommendations on what to buy. Just be aware that the conversation will center around inexpensive machines that can accomplish basic tasks. Chromebooks can’t hold a candle to $2,000 gaming PCs, though some cloud gaming services might allow them to eventually.<snip>
https://www.pcworld.com/article/218394/software-productivity/best-microsoft-office-alternatives.html
Home/ Productivity Software Updated
The best free Microsoft Office alternatives Battle of the free office suites.
By Michael Ansaldo
Freelance contributor, PCWorld Oct 2, 2017
Microsoft Office is the king of office productivity suites, but it doesn’t inspire warm, fuzzy feelings in all users. Parsing the ever-expanding list of features—many of which you’ll never use—can feel like stepping into a cockpit without a pilot’s license. The ribbon interface, introduced a decade ago, has many fans, but others pine for the static menus of the early aughts. And then there’s Office’s hefty price tag.
Fortunately, alternatives abound, ranging from web apps to freemium and open source desktop installations, many of which are compatible with Microsoft Office docs. We compared six of the most popular free office suites to see how well they replicate the most commonly used features of Microsoft Office.<snip>
====== Links from 9-7-2018 email ==========================
https://www.stateoftheedge.com/glossary
Open Glossary of Edge Computing
Towards a Common Lexicon
The Open Glossary of Edge Computing seeks to provide a concise collection of terms related to the field of edge computing. The purpose of the glossary is to improve communication and accelerate innovation through a shared vocabulary, offering a vendor-neutral platform with which to discuss compelling solutions offered by edge computing and the next generation Internet.
The Open Glossary is now an official project under the stewardship of The Linux Foundation, which is helping to implement a community-driven process to develop and improve upon this shared lexicon, The official version of the Open Glossary is available via this GitHub repository. Proposed edits, clarifications and suggestions are made by filing GitHub issues or creating “pull requests.” Each issue, addition or suggested change will be evaluated by the community for inclusion. To contribute to the glossary, refer to our Contributing Guide.
The Open Glossary is presented under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International license (CC-BY-SA-4.0) in order to encourage use and adoption. Code contributions to the project are licensed under the Apache License, version 2.0 (Apache-2.0).
VIEW PDF
https://edge.docsend.com/view/7rm4d3d
Open Glossary of Edge Computing [v0.9.0-Beta]
•Version: v0.9.0-beta
•Date: June 12, 2018 1:28 PM Pacific Time
•License: Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International (CC-BY-SA-4.0) Overview The Open Glossary of Edge Computing is a freely-licensed, open source lexicon of terms related to edge computing. It has been built using a collaborative process and is designed for easy adoption by the entire edge computing ecosystem, including by open source projects, vendors, standards groups, analysts, journalists, and practitioners.<snip>
====== Links from 8-31-2018 email ==========================
https://internetessentials.com/Veterans
$9.95 a month + tax
NO CREDIT CHECK
NO INSTALLATION FEE
NO TERM CONTRACT
15 Mbps
IN-HOME WiFi INCLUDED
Veterans Program
Internet access at home opens the door to a world of knowledge and opportunities for you. Comcast Internet Essentials offers affordable Internet for the home. You can qualify if you are a verified veteran and receive state or federal assistance.
Do you qualify?
Find out if you're eligible for Internet Essentials by looking at the checklist below.
Start your application today!
Eligible Veterans:
Must be a low-income veteran.
Must receive federal or state public assistance.
Do not have outstanding debt to Comcast that is less than a year old. Veterans with outstanding debt more than one year old may still be eligible.
Live in an area where Comcast Internet service is available but have not subscribed to it within the last 90 days.
https://www.internetessentials.com/learning/InternetBasics
First Things First
New to the internet? This is a great place to start. Here, you'll find an overview on how to connect to and navigate the internet—including tips on using search engines, social media platforms, and email.
[Provided by Comcast...some good info here.]
https://www.nbcnews.com/better/business/6-common-habits-put-you-risk-identity-theft-ncna899251
6 common habits that put you at risk for identity theft Data breaches and hacks are often unavoidable, but security experts say there are some everyday habits that put consumers even more at risk.
by Emily Long Aug.20.2018
Before providing your credit card information or social security number over the phone, make sure that it’s absolutely necessary.
According to a report by Javelin Strategies, U.S. residents lost $16.8 billion to fraudsters in 2017, and the number of victims increased 8 percent over the previous year.
U.S. residents lost $16.8 billion to fraudsters in 2017.
Unfortunately, identity thieves are getting smarter, which means that consumers have to be even more vigilant when it comes to protecting their personal information and their financial well-being. Thieves are launching more complex schemes, but consumers also don’t think twice about many common practices that put their data — and their money — at risk.
It’s easy to be cavalier with your passwords and personal information — and to believe identity theft won’t happen to you. Here are six common habits to break right now. [paragraphs of info follow each YOU statement] YOU USE THE SAME SIMPLE PASSWORD FOR MULTIPLE ONLINE ACCOUNTS YOU AVOID CHECKING YOUR BANKING AND CREDIT CARD STATEMENTS ON A REGULAR BASIS YOU OVERSHARE ON SOCIAL MEDIA AND DON’T CHECK YOUR PRIVACY SETTINGS YOU SEND SENSITIVE INFORMATION VIA EMAIL OR UNSECURE MESSAGING SERVICES YOU RARELY UPDATE YOUR APPS AND DEVICE SOFTWARE YOU GIVE AWAY TOO MUCH INFORMATION — ESPECIALLY WHEN YOU ARE IN PUBLIC
https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/columnist/baig/2018/08/06/android-9-pie-googles-attempt-help-you-fight-digital-addiction/901006002/
Google's Android P launches with a new name – it's Pie – and focuses on screen-time addiction Edward C. Baig, USA TODAY Published Aug. 6, 2018 That’s the yummy new moniker for the latest version of Android that Google finally revealed on Monday, the same day that Android 9 Pie comes out of its beta test phase and starts showing up via an over-the-air update on all of the company’s Pixel smartphones.
Google, of course, has been naming versions of Android after appetizing treats for years – thus, Pie follows, among others, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow, and Lollipop.
As in the past –alas – if you’re one of the many people who own a branded Android handset that’s not from Google, you’ll have to wait as long as until the end of the year (and possibly beyond) before P is made available on your device.<snip>
https://www.theverge.com/2018/8/2/17643586/facebook-digital-literacy-library-educators-schools
The Digital Literacy Library is part of Facebook’s Safety Center as well as a larger effort to provide digital literacy skills to nonprofits, small businesses, and community colleges. Though it feels like a step in the right direction, curiously missing from the lesson plans are any mentions of “fake news.” Facebook has worked on a news literacy campaign with the aim of reducing the spread of false news before. But given the company’s recent announcements admitting to the discovery of “inauthentic” social media campaigns ahead of the midterm elections, it’s strange that the literacy library doesn’t call attention to spotting potential problems on its own platform. [Good general info for senior computer buddies, too. See below]
Facebook's Digital Literacy Library
https://www.facebook.com/safety/educators
Find lesson plans designed by experts to help young people develop skills needed to navigate the digital world, critically consume information and responsibly produce and share content. Designed to be interactive and engaging, these lessons involve group discussions, activities, quizzes, and games that have been built in consultation with teens. Use them either collectively or individually in the classroom, as part of after-school programs, or even at home.
https://www.facebook.com/safety/educators/security/public-wifi/overview
Participants will learn about public Wi-Fi networks and their benefits and risks. More specifically, they will learn to recognize unsecured Wi-Fi when it is available to them, understand the tradeoffs inherent in using unsecured Wi-Fi, and make informed decisions about when to connect to and use unsecured Wi-Fi.
https://www.facebook.com/safety/educators/security/passwords/overview
Participants will learn how to keep their online information more secure by using and maintaining strong passwords. Participants will learn about the principles of strong password design, the potential problems of password sharing. They will also learn how to keep their passwords safe, and how to take steps to prevent unauthorized access to their accounts.
https://www.facebook.com/safety/educators/security/cybersecurity-phishing-and-spam/overview
Participants will learn about malicious online users who might attempt to use security weaknesses to gather information about them. Participants will be able to describe the risks of being online, develop strategies to engage in safer behaviors, identify spam messages, and explain who should ask for their password.
How to I stop my homepage from changing? – If your home page keeps changing after you have set it, I start to suspect malware. Time for a thorough malware scan and cleaning.
https://askleo.com/how-to-i-stop-my-homepage-from-changing/
https://askleo.com/how_do_i_change_my_browser_home_page_back_to_what_i_want/
https://askleo.com/i_run_antivirus_software_why_do_i_still_sometimes_get_infected/
https://askleo.com/internet_safety_7_steps_to_keeping_your_computer_safe_on_the_internet
https://askleo.com/what-should-i-do-about-the-vpnfilter-router-exploit
https://askleo.com/whos-responsible-for-monitoring-misleading-advertising/
https://askleo.com/time-start-using-adblocker/
Let’s Retire the Phrase ‘Privacy Policy’
People assume it means their information will be kept private. Nothing could be further from the truth.
By Joseph Turow Mr. Turow is a professor of communication. Aug. 20, 2018
https://www.nytimes.com/2018/08/20/opinion/20Turow.html
True or false:
“When a website has a privacy policy, it means the site will not share my information with other websites or companies without my permission.”
According to my research — a nationally representative phone survey conducted in January and February — a majority of Americans think this is true.
It isn’t. Not even close. <snip>
====== Links from 8-24-2018 email ==========================
How Do I Delete My Facebook Account?
https://askleo.com/4322
This Is Why I Back Up
https://askleo.com/40968
How Do Chrome and Chrome Relate?
https://askleo.com/40983
https://biz.askleo.com/you-are-not-your-customer/
What's the Difference Between Hibernate and Sleep?
https://askleo.com/41519
Facebook Hacked? What You Need to Do NOW
https://askleo.com/7708
Will a Scheduled Backup Wake My Machine Up If It's Sleeping?
https://askleo.com/5726
====== Links from 8-9-2018 email ==========================
Should I Cover Up My Webcam When I'm Not Using It?
https://askleo.com/48444
Can My ISP See What I'm Doing If I Use a Virtual Machine (VM)?
https://askleo.com/48391
How Do I Create a Bootable USB Thumb Drive from an ISO?
https://askleo.com/48407
Why Do Things Disappear from the Clipboard When I Close a Program?
https://askleo.com/59842
The First Eight Things to Do with Your New Computer
https://askleo.com/4689
Is it Safe to Install a Higher Wattage Power Supply in My Computer?
https://askleo.com/2873
Why Does My IP Address Have a Bad Reputation? And What Do I Do?
https://askleo.com/47454
How Do I Fix a Cyclic Redundancy Check Error When I Try to Copy a File?
https://askleo.com/2935
Where's the Recycle Bin on My USB Drive?
https://askleo.com/3508
How Do I Clean Up After Windows Update?
https://askleo.com/46067
How Can I Automatically Reply to Spammers To Tell Them to Stop?
https://askleo.com/4683
How Do I Print Pictures from Websites So They Look Good?
https://askleo.com/45996
====== Links from 8-3-2018 email ==========================
https://www.usatoday.com/story/opinion/2018/07/27/cell-phone-number-more-important-less-secure-twitter-password-column/820232002/
Your cell phone number is more important and less secure than your Twitter password Nick Selby, Opinion contributor Published July 27, 2018 It's shockingly easy for hackers to hijack your digital life using phone numbers. The public should press Congress and carriers to improve security.
On July Fourth, hackers accessed computers at the social media aggregator Timehop. They stole 21 million user records. Timehop executives quickly realized that the most sensitive compromised records weren’t email addresses, names or even dates of birth. Their top concern was the 4.9 million stolen customer phone numbers.
The mobile phone number has become society’s primary authentication token. If you forget the password to your bank account, you recover it by entering the digits texted to your phone number. That’s how the bank “knows” you’re you.
Compared with email and online banking, there’s almost no security to protect a phone number from being stolen. Using information and tools available easily and cheaply online, “SIM swapping” attacks can be mounted against any phone number.
Once the bad guys have hijacked your phone number, they can reset your email password and lock you out while they systematically take over your online banking, retirement accounts, photos ... every aspect of your digital life. Regaining control can take days — and you might never get back easily transferred assets, like cryptocurrency.<snip>
https://www.mprnews.org/story/2018/07/30/npr-some-amazon-reviews-are-too-good-to-be-believed
Some Amazon reviews are too good to be believed. They're paid for
Business Ryan Kailath · NPR · Jul 30, 2018
In shadow marketplaces, positive reviews for Amazon products are bought and sold. The company says it's cracking down and that it estimates that less than 1 percent of reviews are fake.
Travis is a teenager living in a small town in the Northeast. He enjoys hunting and shooting, and keeps a rifle at home. But with several younger siblings around the house, he wanted to make sure his gun was safe. So he ordered a trigger lock on Amazon, to prevent the gun from firing.
"The reviews were great, five-star reviews," says Travis, who asked that NPR use only his first name to avoid scrutiny and possible legal attention. "[They] said it worked great, locked perfectly, the combination system worked great."
It didn't.
"The combination doesn't even matter; the lock just opens," Travis says. "It's cheap plastic, it will pull apart as soon as you give it any force."
Thankfully, he realized this immediately, went to a store, and purchased a proper trigger lock for his gun. Everyone at home is fine.
Travis rues the experience, and the stellar reviews that led him to purchase the faulty lock in the first place. He didn't realize it at the time, he says, but he's now certain that those glowing reviews were paid for. And that many of the people who gave the trigger lock excellent reviews may never have opened the package in the first place.
<snip>
How Should I Back Up My Computer Before an Operating System Upgrade or Reinstall?
https://askleo.com/19932
Does Bounced Email Mean All the Recipients Didn't Get My Message?
https://askleo.com/4723
Why Does My Email Sometimes Show Up with Funny Characters Like "=0D" In It?
https://askleo.com/2669
What's the Difference Between Windows 10 Home vs Pro Editions?
https://askleo.com/39397
My Mouse and Keyboard Stopped Working, but Work Elsewhere. How Do I Fix Them?
https://askleo.com/39732
I Deleted a File by Mistake, Can I Get It Back?
https://askleo.com/2540
Do I Need All These Partitions?
https://askleo.com/40562
How Do I Find Out What Program Is Using All My CPU?
https://askleo.com/3003
Is Online Document Conversion Safe?
https://askleo.com/40614
