Savvy Seniors F
ree Wi Fi traps I became aware that there
are free Wi Fi outlets throughout Sydney and beyond, at this stage, mainly at McDonalds although some caravan parks etc out of Sydney do offer this service. Sounds good doesn’t it but apparently there is a possible trap, as the info goes, from the USA. Apparently there is software available for Ipods and possibly other phone brands that allow snoopers to capture information including passwords while you work. They access to some WI Fi as you with their phones and connect to the internet just as you do.
To quote re safety, “That’s the
illusion”. Programs like Facebook and web based email accounts ask for a password once, but then store that password as a cookie.
That
way after you have logged in the fi rst time you don’t have to keep logging in to navigate around. Your stored password is how you are exposed to sidejacking. Free Wi Fi sounds good if you are travelling and want to keep in
touch with the family but beware! Even at home where you use a wireless network always make sure it is secure otherwise anyone nearby can connect using your modem. Maybe they are not stealing your data but they sure can steal you web time allowance. Beware False Help.- A couple of nights ago I received a call from someone with a very strong Asian accent offering to help me with a problem on my computer. I was supposed to have downloaded some bad fi le that was going to give me loads of problems. To give him credit he was persistent and insisted that I had a real problem even if I didn’t know it.
I would imagine that download would be nothing to what would have happened if I had allowed him to access my computer. What few computer users realize is that built in to Windows is a special feature that can be very useful when you have a problem, yet are not very computer savvy, when it comes to talking to a technician on a help line. This feature allows your
technician to take over your computer remotely with your permission and run it just as if he was in the room with you. This allows for quick analysis of problems because he knows what to do and how, instead of trying to talk you through complicated actions.
Sometimes when I have been dealing with Microsoft they used this technique quite effectively. Just as well sometimes because, the fact that they are using overseas technicians that are very hard to understand because of accents, almost makes it impossible to follow their instruction. Beware of strange men offering
help. There was something about this some time ago in the press but looks like they are back. Always ask for proof of legitimacy. It is not so much that they may steal info from your computer but that they use if for all sorts of illegal activity and that initial contact would allow them to insert a virus or Trojan for later access. In any case how did he know you had downloaded the fi le any way.
The myth of the PC-free life for boomers and seniors
D
id you know that computers represent one of the fastest growing markets... This translates to lots of press about a wide variety of computer less connection choices for TV, radio, and books, as Computer sales to seniors continue to grow.
Home devices that run our computers are all the rage; one can’t imagine a computer -avoidance strategy in some homes. Many of the new devices may need a wireless router in the home and high speed Internet access. Digital television and Set top Boxes and 3D the next big thing. First we plug in our new 3D TV with its broadband which connects for Skype and phone calls. Next the radio - not in the mood
to watch TV maybe (no surprise) there’s really nothing on right now. We turn on the Digital Radio which offers a new range of listening. Electronic Picture Frames - from your home you will be able to transfer your photos directly from camera to the frame -- and friends and relatives can receive those same photos from you in their home, instantly. eBook Reader.
While we’re
listening to the radio, we want to read a book that we can download directly onto the reader. Down comes the latest bestseller available. This is one of the latest things here in Australia which will be followed very soon by the last version of the iPad. To summarise - what’s next you
say, watch this space and we at SilverSurf will keep you up to date, make sure you use Skype for those free interstate and International calls. Maybe you take our new GPS with its continuously updated maps, and we also dock and sync up our brand new Smartphone. SilverSurf, who are they? No we are not old surfers!!! We have over 20 years experience in the training and technology industry working with 50’s and seniors specifi cally for the past three years. If you have any queries: David Lumb SilverSurf Technology 1300 833 932
support@silversurf.com.au www.silversurf.com.au
COMPUTERS & TECHNOLOGY with George Kimpton
02 9634 5995 or
gkimp@westnet.com.au.
Ironically since writing this item the Sydney Morning Herald has an article it. To Quote “That nice young man with an Indian accent ringing from Microsoft does not really want to fi x your computer, he just wants you to give him access to your personal details.”
Calls have numbered 14000 in one year according to the ACCC.. Screen Capture --
There is a
very useful program that I use often called Snagit. It is not free but not expensive either $ 49.95. It can be used to help with fi xing problems and make it much easier for help technicians to analyse a problem. It can also be very handy making copies of anything on the screen In Fact Windows 7 is geared to use it using the PRINT SCREEN key..
I often used a similar program when writing notes to teach Windows and other programs at the club I started.
To put it simply it allows you to capture anything on the screen and save or print it out. When seeking help from someone via email or phone it is very handy to capture the information on the screen and save it or even email it so the person helping you can see exactly what the problem looks like and advise you accordingly.
In my case I would do a screen grab and insert it into Word along with arrows and labels to explain what I was trying to teach. You can test run it for a month if you are curious.
A
s our society ages, more and more research reveals the importance of maintaining a positive approach to ageing, to maintain both physical and mental health. The U3A Network NSW Annual Conference at the Wesley Centre in Sydney on 28th April has adopted the theme “The Future in Mind” to focus on issues of demography and positive ageing, and the role of the creative arts in maintaining a positive and active lifestyle in the “Third Age “. A stellar lineup of speakers includes Ms Monica Barone, CEO of the City of Sydney; Dr Barry Jones AO, Professor
CONFERENCE TO FOCUS ON ‘POSITIVE AGEING’ THROUGH CREATIVITY
Julie Byles of Newcastle University, a leading researcher on older persons’ health issues; and Bob Ellis, fi lmmaker, author and social commentator. The afternoon program also includes presentations by U3A members of their talents in the creative arts, in particular poetry, music and drama.
The Conference will be of interest to retirees looking for mental stimulation, and to researchers into the ageing process and its consequences. For further information, email
info@nsw.u3anet.org.au or phone 02 4823 6256
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FIFTYPLUS Lifestyle
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