Author: Stuart Crawford

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What Is a VPN, How Does It Work and Why Should I Use It?

VPN Technology

Does it make you nervous when you consider how much of your personal information is essentially spread all over the internet? In spite of antivirus programs and firewalls, all data is somewhat at risk on the web. One of the most proven techniques to ensure your data is safe is to use a virtual private network (VPN), which will give you back control over how you’re identified online. With the constant news of data breaches, most of us are tired of hearing that our personal information was lost yet again by a large credit reporting agency or some retailer.

VPN Technology

VPN Explained

A VPN constructs a virtual encrypted tunnel that runs between you and a remote server controlled by a VPN service. All outside internet traffic is transmitted through this passageway, so your data is not spied upon as you put it out there on the internet. Also, your computer looks as if it has the IP address of the VPN server, so your identity is hidden.

When you put your data out to the VPN server, it exits back out to the public internet. If the site you’re visiting has HTTPS to keep the connection safe, you are still secure. But even if it was intercepted by a third party, it’s challenging for the outside party to trace the data back to you, since it appears to be coming from a VPN server.

VPN in Real Life

Let’s look at an all too familiar scenario to understand the value of a VPN in your everyday life. When using a public Wi-Fi network at a popular spot, such as coffee shop or airport, you typically connect without giving it much thought. But unbeknownst to you, there may be people watching the traffic on that network. Can you be sure the Wi-Fi network that gave you quick access is secure, or could it be operated by a hacker who is after your personal data? While you are busy taking care of your business waiting on a plane or a meeting, your banking and credit card information, and all your private data could be delivered to the hacker on a silver platter.

It is extremely tough to tell whether or not a Wi-Fi network is what it appears to be. You could be at a coffee shop called Java Joe’s, and you link to a public Wi-Fi network that says JavaJoes. But that doesn’t mean the server you are on is really owned by that coffee shop. A hacker can put out their own server with similar wording to the coffee shop’s server, and sometimes it even has a better signal.

Now, if you connect to that same public Wi-Fi network using a VPN, you can be sure no thief will be able to steal your data. If there are hackers seeking for would-be victims, they can’t touch your computer.

VPN and the Government

We all would like to think that the government is on our side. Perhaps some of its agencies are only online snooping for terrorists and Wall Street insiders. Unfortunately, news of the Snowden leaks and Russian online infiltration have shown us that a government’s surveillance capability is massive in scope.

The NSA (National Security Agency) has the ability to intercept and explore almost every communication that is being sent out on the web. When using a VPN, you can have the peace of mind knowing that your encrypted information is less directly traceable back to you.

The Federal Communications Commission has recently turned back Obama-era rules that were made to protect net neutrality, and this opened the door for internet service providers (ISPs) to make money off your data. Now they are able to gather huge amounts of information about you, and then use it to tailor advertising. Often, these companies sell your data to other companies.

Your ISP is basically your gateway to the entirety of the internet. Most of us have limited home ISP choices, and some only have one ISP that provides wired internet access. Now that ISPs are allowed to sell data from consumers, it makes us easy targets. Do you ever wonder why your Google search for a product, and then that product shows up in advertisements on every page you go to for the next few days? Your ISP could be sharing your data and profiting off your personal searches.

The Unique Protection of a VPN

When the internet was first becoming popular, there wasn’t a demand for security or privacy. In the beginning, shared computers at research institutions made computing power very limited. The use of encryption would have made things extremely problematic.

Today, the average user has multiple devices connected to the web. It is up to individual users to protect themselves. Antivirus apps and password managers are a key factor in keeping you secure online, but a VPN is a uniquely powerful tool that will keep you safe in today’s connected world.

 

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Microsoft Files Patent Application for Eyewear that Measures Blood Pressure

blood pressure

Why are Tech Giants Diving into the Health Care Business?

blood pressure

In a report by Christian Holz and Edward Wang of Microsoft Research, the researchers revealed that Microsoft is creating eyeglasses that measure blood pressure. What Microsoft is calling Glabella, the glasses are equipped with optical sensors hidden inside the frame. These sensors can recurrently measure pulse waves at three different locations on the face. By gauging the time and rate between these three areas and the heart, it can determine the user’s blood pressure. Concurrently, the eyewear can be used as an activity tracker as it also collects information on the individual’s physical activity.

Tech Giants Clamoring to Enter the HealthCare World

Microsoft’s newest eyeglass patent arrives on the heels of its rivals. Apple, Google, Amazon, and Samsung have also filed patents for products in the area of healthcare technology. Google has already filed a patent for eyeglasses that monitor heart rate and Apple recently filed a patent application for a monitoring cuff that measures blood pressure. Samsung’s forthcoming new Galaxy Watch is rumored to be able to calculate your heart rate by using polarized light that can identify the amount of the scattered light.

Amazon is working on a new partnership with JPMorgan Chase and Warren Buffett. Apple is building state-of-the-art medical clinics. Google’s umbrella company Alphabet, is entering the Medicaid market with plans to serve low-income urban residents covered by Medicaid and Medicare. Also, studies show that more and more people are opting out of emergency ambulance service in favor of Uber taking them to the hospital.

Why Are these Tech Giants Making Big Health Care Moves?

Why are the most proven and forward-thinking companies in the field of technology deciding that healthcare should be their next big move? With technology rapidly advancing, these tech titans are noticing a health care system full of administrative ineptitudes, out of control prices, and frustrated customers. To the movers and shakers in Silicon Valley, they see this as a huge opportunity to enter the complex world of health care and make it better.

The Pros and Cons of Tech Businesses in the Healthcare Field

Is health care similar to other areas of the economy that Silicon Valley currently manages? Health care is one-sixth of the American economy, and it is currently managed by a scrambled assortment of manufacturers, providers, administrators, payers, and patients. The complex, murky, and massive healthcare industry has many vested players. They aren’t going to stand idly by and allow Silicon Valley to unseat them.

Also, health care operates in a highly regulatory environment with its complex interactions between patients, health providers, and insurers. For example, Amazon has taken interest in online pharmacies. Look at the complexity of entering the pharmacy world:

  • The Food and Drug Administration regulates drugs.
  • Health insurers try to rein in their drug costs.
  • Drug manufacturers set their own list prices.
  • Pharmacy managers coordinate deals between health insurers and drug manufacturers.
  • Consumers are trying to traverse through all this complexity and get their medications at the lowest prices.

In contrast, the benefits of the tech giants’ entrance into the healthcare industry cannot be overstated. Electronic medical records, mobile phones, and health assisting apps have slowly received widespread implementation by the healthcare world. The conglomeration of the two worlds has been at play for several years now. And yet, health care is still incredibly timid in its use of information and consumer technologies.

With the huge amount of money at stake in health care, the tech world’s disruption of this industry could be just what the doctor ordered. Imagine companies like Microsoft adding their knowledge, expertise, organizational skills, operational know-how, and other advantages to the healthcare industry. Patients will receive much better care at a fraction of the cost.

Can They Just Get Along?

Whenever the new kid shows up on the block, there is always fear, mistrust, and jealousy that is felt throughout the neighborhood. In order for tech companies to succeed in the healthcare market, they will ultimately need to forge relationships with professionals who are deeply rooted in this tangled system.

But when push comes to shove, they both can learn from each other. Case in point: Microsoft’s Glabella, which will try to replace the traditional cuff monitor with eyeglasses for tracking blood pressure. The sensors on this new product have only been shown to be accurate for taking the systolic pressure. For optimum accuracy, blood pressure should be measured by taking both systolic pressure and diastolic pressure.

According to the CDC: “The first number, called systolic blood pressure, measures the pressure in your blood vessels when your heart beats. The second number, called diastolic blood pressure, measures the pressure in your blood vessels when your heart rests between beats.”

While systolic pressure is commonly recognized to be more important than diastolic pressure, both readings are important. Systolic pressure is better at assessing your risk of having a stroke or heart attack. Diastolic pressure shows whether or not the heart is relaxing enough and can help doctors prevent future cardiovascular problems in a patient.

As Microsoft’s prototype medical device evolves, developing a way to measure both systolic and diastolic pressure is a perfect example of why the tech and healthcare people need to find common ground in the modern world.

Wrap Up

Consumers in general will benefit greatly from the excellence that companies like Google, Apple, and Microsoft can bring to the healthcare industry. And, most people will agree that this is one area that has not been well-organized for many years. Pharmaceutical companies are well-known for suddenly raising the price of drugs to ten times what they were for no apparent reason. With these tech giants in control, prices should be reasonable. They should stabilize. Care should be improved as well. And with wearable healthcare devices, people will be able to better monitor their health.

In the end, consumers will be the real winners here. For too many years, the healthcare industry has loomed out of control and missed opportunities to provide better care for patients. Their bottom line has always been profit over patient care. With these tech giants now pushing forward, we can expect all that to change.

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Tropical Storm Gordon Update

Are You Ready For Tropical Storm Gordon?

Gordon made landfall over the southern tip of the Florida Peninsula on Monday, September 3rd.

It’s now predicted to make its 2nd landfall as a Category 1 Hurricane over the central Gulf Coast from Louisiana to Mississippi late today (Sept 4th).

Are you ready for the storm?

(Courtesy of Fox News)

Tropical Storm Gordon is continuing to gain strength this morning and is expected to become a hurricane by the time it hits the central U.S. Gulf Coast, including coastal Mississippi.

Voluntary evacuation orders have been issued for parts of Louisiana for residents in areas outside the levee protection system.

We’re looking a 3 to 5-foot storm surge along the coasts. And the Weather Channel is predicting 75 mph winds on the Alabama and Mississippi borders. They also warn that there will be flooding inland, so even if you’re away from the coast, you should still make plans to protect your property. That means your business technology.

Here’s What You Should Do Now:

  1. Make sure all of your computer equipment is off the floor, in case of flooding.
  2. Back up all of your critical data in case your computers fail.
  3. Unplug all of your computers when you leave the office.
  4. Make sure everyone reviews your disaster plan in case you need to put it into action.
  5. Keep backup copies of your important documents, such as insurance documents and vendor contact information. Take them to an area that won’t be affected by flooding or high winds.

According to FEMA you should also take these precautions NOW:

(ELEVATE, WATERPROOF, AND CLEAR DEBRIS Your goal now, before a flood occurs, is to reduce the risk of damage to structures from flooding.

  • This means elevating critical utilities, such as electrical panels, switches, sockets, wiring, appliances, and heating systems, and waterproofing basements. In areas with repetitive flooding, consider elevating the entire structure.
  • Make sure that basements are waterproofed and that your sump pump is working and then install a battery-operated backup in case of a power failure. Installing a water alarm will also let you know if water is accumulating in your basement.
  • Clear debris from gutters and downspouts. Anchor any fuel tanks. Move furniture, valuables, and important documents to a safe place.
  • Know your evacuation routes; plan your transportation and a place to stay. The safest way to survive a flood is to evacuate the area if advised to leave. To ensure that you will be able to act quickly should the need arise, you need to plan ahead. – Know your community’s local flood evacuation plan and identify several escape routes for your location if roads are blocked; include plans to evacuate people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs, pets, service animals, and livestock.
  • If you will evacuate by car, keep your car fueled and in good condition. Keep emergency supplies and a change of clothes in your car.
  • If you will need to share transportation, make arrangements now.
  • If you will need to use public transportation, including paratransit, contact your local government emergency management agency to ask how an evacuation will work, how you will get current information during an evacuation, the location of staging areas, and other information.
  • If you need to relocate for an extended period of time, identify a place away from home now where you could go if you had to leave. Consider family or friends who live outside of the local area.
  • If you expect to go to a shelter after evacuating, download the American Red Cross Shelter Finder app. This app displays open American Red Cross shelters and provides the capacity and current population of each shelter. Visit https://www.redcross.org/get-help/disaster-relief-and-recovery-services/find-an-open-shelter.html You can also text SHELTER + your ZIP code to 43362 (4FEMA) to find the nearest shelter in your area.
  • If you have pets and plan to go to a shelter, call to inquire whether the shelter can accommodate your pets. Shelters will accept service animals.

Imminent Flooding Action Plan (Courtesy of Interstate Restoration)

If you are in an area where flooding or flash flooding has been an afterthought, and are suddenly facing the possibility of a flood, or you simply haven’t prepared, your top priority should be the safety of customers and employees. Here are some key steps to protecting people and your business:

  • Pay attention—In addition to listening to local weather alerts, keep an eye out in your area for signs of trouble.
  • Don’t wait to move or act—If there is a chance of flash flooding that could impact your business or leave people trapped in your business, heed official advice for evacuations or other measures and carefully consider the best evacuation routes. Remember as little as six inches of fast-moving water can sweep a person away, and two feet of running water can move a vehicle.
  • If you have time, grab key documents and information—Hopefully, you have backups of key insurance and business information at another safe site. If not, and the circumstances allow, try to get your most important documents and information to a safe place.

Be safe everyone. Remember, we’re here to help with the restoration of your technology if you need it.

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Happy Labor Day

Labor Day

Happy Labor Day (Labour Day – International Workers Day –  May Day)!

You’ve worked hard all summer. This Labor Day before going back to work and back to school, take some time to relax and enjoy one more backyard barbeque, one more trip to the beach, one more night sleeping under the stars, one more bonfire, and create one perfect summer memory.  After all, you’ve earned it!

When Is Labor Day Celebrated Around The World?  

In both Canada and the United States, Labor Day is celebrated on the first Monday in September. It’s to honor the achievements of American and Canadian workers. In Australia, it’s celebrated on different days according to which state/territory you’re in.

For some countries around the world, it’s connected to International Workers’ Day that’s celebrated every May 1st.  And yet for others, it’s celebrated on different dates that hold a unique significance for their labor movement. Over 80 countries around the world celebrate International Workers’ Day on May 1st.

The History Of Labor Day In The U.S.

Labor Day

The first national Labor Day was held in 1885. The late 1800s was in the height of the Industrial Revolution in the U.S. At this time, the average laborer worked 12 hours a day, 7 days a week.  Plus, children ages 5 and above worked in factories, mills and even in mines.

On May 11, 1894, laborers in Chicago working at the Pullman Palace Car Company went on strike. They were protesting wage cuts and the firing of union representatives. Because of the massive unrest, it caused, and to repair relations with American workers, Congress made Labor Day a legal holiday.

As the story goes (no one is really sure) Peter J. McGuire, general secretary of the Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners and a co-founder of the American Federation of Labor, suggested we honor our workers.

But some believe that Matthew Maguire, a machinist, was the founder of Labor Day. He was also the secretary of Local 344 of the International Association of Machinists in Paterson, N.J., and it’s said that in 1882 he proposed we have a holiday to celebrate the work our laborers do.  At this time he was serving as secretary of the Central Labor Union in New York.

The History Of Labour Day In Canada

In 1872 the Toronto Trades Assembly organized Canada’s first demonstration for worker’s rights. It was held to promote the release of 24 leaders of the Toronto Typographical Union who were imprisoned due to a strike they held for a nine-hour working day. Trade unions were illegal at this time.

There was such an uprising of support that the house of Canada’s first prime minister, Sir John Macdonald promised to repeal all Canadian laws against trade unions. This led to the Canadian Labour Congress in 1883.

In 1894, Labour Day which had been celebrated in the spring, was changed to the fall to be held on the same day as the U.S. The celebration of workers’ rights continues, and many Canadians take the day to relax, take a late summer trip or get together with family and friends at picnics, fairs, and festivals.

Labour Day In Australia

Labour Day in Australia is held to honor the granting of the 8-hour working day and to recognize the contributions of workers to the country’s economy. Before then, the workday was 12 hours and people worked 6 days a week.

In Australia, Labour Day varies between its different states and territories.

  • In New South Wales and South Australia, Labour Day is celebrated on the first Monday in October.
  • In Tasmania and Victoria, it’s recognized on the second Monday in March. (Tasmania calls it the Eight Hours Day).
  • Western Australia celebrates Labour Day on the first Monday in March.
  • Queensland and the Northern Territory celebrate it on the first Monday in May, and they call it May Day.
  • On Christmas Island, they celebrate it on the fourth Monday in March.

Labour Day Is Called May Day In The United Kingdom

May Day is a bank holiday in the UK and coincides with Labour Day. It’s also known as Labour Day.  It’s commemorated on the first day of May each year.

May Day goes as far back as the Gaelic festival Beltane.  In Britain, communities celebrate May Day with village gatherings where folks erect a maypole with ribbons attached that children and adults hold onto while dancing.

A competition is typically held to name one of the girls the May Queen in honor of the Roman goddess Flora. The winner then dresses in a white gown and a crown of flowers is placed on her head.  Then, she leads the others in a May Day parade.

Labor Day/Labour Day/ May Day/ International Workers Day

Labor Day, Labour Day, May Day or International Workers’ Day, it’s a public holiday for all to enjoy.  Whatever you call it, Labor Day constitutes an annual national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the prosperity of our countries.  So, take the time to celebrate.  You work hard, and you deserve a nice long weekend!

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Happy Labour Day Everyone!

Happy Labour Day

Happy Labour Day (Labor Day – International Workers Day –  May Day)!

You’ve worked hard all summer. This Labor Day before going back to work and back to school, take some time to relax and enjoy one more backyard barbeque, one more trip to the beach, one more night sleeping under the stars, one more bonfire, and create one perfect summer memory.  After all, you’ve earned it!

When Is Labour Day Celebrated Around The World?  

In both Canada and the United States, Labour Day is celebrated on the first Monday in September. It’s to honor the achievements of American and Canadian workers. In Australia, it’s celebrated on different days according to which state/territory you’re in.

For some countries around the world, it’s connected to International Workers’ Day that’s celebrated every May 1st.  And yet for others, it’s celebrated on different dates that hold a unique significance for their labor movement. Over 80 countries around the world celebrate International Workers’ Day on May 1st.

The History Of Labour Day In Canada

In 1872 the Toronto Trades Assembly organized Canada’s first demonstration for worker’s rights. It was held to promote the release of 24 leaders of the Toronto Typographical Union who were imprisoned due to a strike they held for a nine-hour working day. Trade unions were illegal at this time.

Happy Labour Day

There was such an uprising of support that the house of Canada’s first prime minister, Sir John Macdonald promised to repeal all Canadian laws against trade unions. This led to the Canadian Labour Congress in 1883.

In 1894, Labour Day which had been celebrated in the spring, was changed to the fall to be held on the same day as the U.S. The celebration of workers’ rights continues, and many Canadians take the day to relax, take a late summer trip or get together with family and friends at picnics, fairs, and festivals.

The History Of Labor Day In The U.S.

 

The first national Labor Day was held in 1885. The late 1800s was in the height of the Industrial Revolution in the U.S. At this time, the average laborer worked 12 hours a day, 7 days a week.  Plus, children ages 5 and above worked in factories, mills and even in mines.

On May 11, 1894, laborers in Chicago working at the Pullman Palace Car Company went on strike. They were protesting wage cuts and the firing of union representatives. Because of the massive unrest, it caused, and to repair relations with American workers, Congress made Labor Day a legal holiday.

As the story goes (no one is really sure) Peter J. McGuire, general secretary of the Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners and a co-founder of the American Federation of Labor, suggested we honor our workers.

But some believe that Matthew Maguire, a machinist, was the founder of Labor Day. He was also the secretary of Local 344 of the International Association of Machinists in Paterson, N.J., and it’s said that in 1882 he proposed we have a holiday to celebrate the work our laborers do.  At this time he was serving as secretary of the Central Labor Union in New York.

Labour Day In Australia

Labour Day in Australia is held to honor the granting of the 8-hour working day and to recognize the contributions of workers to the country’s economy. Before then, the workday was 12 hours and people worked 6 days a week.

In Australia, Labour Day varies between its different states and territories.

  • In New South Wales and South Australia, Labour Day is celebrated on the first Monday in October.
  • In Tasmania and Victoria, it’s recognized on the second Monday in March. (Tasmania calls it the Eight Hours Day).
  • Western Australia celebrates Labour Day on the first Monday in March.
  • Queensland and the Northern Territory celebrate it on the first Monday in May, and they call it May Day.
  • On Christmas Island, they celebrate it on the fourth Monday in March.

Labour Day Is Called May Day In The United Kingdom

May Day is a bank holiday in the UK and coincides with Labour Day. It’s also known as Labour Day.  It’s commemorated on the first day of May each year.

May Day goes as far back as the Gaelic festival Beltane.  In Britain, communities celebrate May Day with village gatherings where folks erect a maypole with ribbons attached that children and adults hold onto while dancing.

A competition is typically held to name one of the girls the May Queen in honor of the Roman goddess Flora. The winner then dresses in a white gown and a crown of flowers is placed on her head.  Then, she leads the others in a May Day parade.

Labor Day/Labour Day/ May Day/ International Workers Day

Labor Day, Labour Day, May Day or International Workers’ Day, it’s a public holiday for all to enjoy.  Whatever you call it, Labor Day constitutes an annual national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the prosperity of our countries.  So, take the time to celebrate.  You work hard, and you deserve a nice long weekend!

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How Can ATP And Safe Links Help Me Prevent Hacker Attacks?

Microsoft ATP

What Are ATP and Safe Links?

ATP is a form of security feature developed by Microsoft for Office 365, an acronym for its Advanced Threat Protection software package that users are able to purchase for improved security features within the program. They are recommended by Microsoft for business use, claiming to help organizations better secure their operations through the providence of programming that verifies the websites used in emails and document files created through the software within its packages.

Microsoft ATP

After the upgrade to Office 365 is purchased and installed, users working as administrators can create a custom ATP policy that affects website recognition and email security features across the entirety of the network. Additionally, security reports can be reviewed to show sources of attempted violations, potentially identifying internal vulnerabilities or violators in addition to providing some groundwork for ongoing security developments and improvements.

The security feature has been increasingly used in businesses since the final business quarter of last year, and now is considered a viable benefit in addition to email account securities. According to Microsoft, businesses should consider whether the software is a worthwhile investment, while users may wish to combine the investment with Gmail accounts to avoid vulnerabilities to BaseStriker approaches to email phishing.

How Can ATP and Safe Links Help Against Cyberattacks?

Microsoft has developed a number of improvements to ATP in an attempt to increase the security of their customers’ accounts. Following their initial development and release for sale, the software has been upgraded several times. As of last year, Safe Links were added to ATP to relate to URLs for the ProPlus documents of Office 365, including those that are connected to Excel, PowerPoint, Visio, Word, and Office apps available on iOS and Android.

In March of this year, Safe Links were improved to be used to address security vulnerabilities involved in emails sent by business employees and users. To better address security violations and potential hacking from all sources, Microsoft has applied numerous patches and upgrades.

As this threat had not been considered sufficiently addressed through previous versions, new upgrades would be considered beneficial to users and organizations. Safe Links were further improved for application in commonly used Office 365 programs for their online versions, better protecting online users of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote.

The software was further updated to better protect Mac-based ProPlus users. In May of this year, ATP developments have been upgraded as well to give more consideration to color schemes, email details, and site links. While ATP is included in extended Office 365 subscriptions, such as the Enterprise E5, Business, and Education A5 subscription packages, it is not offered to basic users. Microsoft currently recommends that users reaffirm the effectiveness of their purchased ATP Safe Link protection through the maintenance and examination of the latest threat reports possible through ATP, as well as updated Safe Links policies. These explain the extent that the features apply to hyperlinks in messages and files.

While Safe Links are considered a useful and practical improvement, they have security vulnerabilities that should be addressed. They are regarded as a fundamental step in protecting against phishing, but are not considered all-encompassing. Outlook email accounts can experience better protection against phishing vulnerabilities when various security programs are combined.

Avanan recognizes Gmail as being the best choice for use in combination with ATP and Safe Links, although this may change in the future as both security and the nature of remaining vulnerabilities change in line with phishing developments.

What Is baseStriker?

BaseStriker is an example of a phishing approach that currently can bypass even the more advanced ATP and Safe Link developments. It involves the use of an additional tag that the security features of Microsoft alone currently cannot detect. This has led to the recommendation that organizations use Gmail rather than Outlook to safeguard against this aspect as well.

Avanan also recommends that users give consideration to the potential for Safe Links to be bypassed with misdirected IP traffic. In addition, they may have the capacity to be bypassed with obfuscated URLs, and the inability to perceive where email links go.

According to findings at Vanderbilt University and through program use, one of the biggest criticisms of Safe Links is that they create false senses of security. Users may believe they are protected against certain phishing and cyber threats when they are not. Therefore, businesses that fail to use other recommended precautions can actually increase their vulnerability. In the end, Microsoft Office 365 security is better than many other similar programs available.

What’s The Bottom Line?

ATP and Safe Links can:

  • Protect users from harmful links recommended in emails
  • Check Microsoft’s database for blacklisting and exclusion demands upon clicks
  • Redirect users to safety

ATP and Safe Links do not, however:

  • Provide a universal solution to phishing
  • Protect against BaseStriker or base-tag HTML disguise attempts
  • Reduce the overall demand for common practice phishing security recommendations
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Education: Digital Literacy and Access Are No Longer Optional

Computers Classrooms

The debate about whether or not tech should be in schools has largely been put aside, technophobes and Waldorf School Curricula notwithstanding. In its place, education stakeholders must sort out the edtech baggage of privacy concerns, equity & accessibility, protecting children from harmful materials and misuse of technology, and how best to develop and implement effective education technology integration strategies.

Computers Classrooms

At the heart of this matter is what’s best for the nation’s children.

The Department of Education’s Office of Educational Technology published Reimagining The Role of Technology in Education: 2017 National Education Technology Plan Update gives an overview of the current state of edtech in the US and offers recommendations for educators. The report spends a lot of pages discussing the problem of, and possible solutions for, lack of access to hi-speed internet for low-income or rural students.

The “Homework Gap”

The authors note that poor and also rural students face obstacles that will certainly put them at a disadvantage vis-a-vis affluent students with reliable service. To be cut off from the internet is to be cut off from the world. Those students without access to reliable hi-speed internet access slip into a “homework gap.” They fall behind due to a lack of resources at home. This comes on top of the other disadvantages of relative poverty.

Acknowledging the persistent encroachment of computers and other tech in classrooms is relatively easy; finding effective, efficient ways to synthesize traditional and modern lessons is hard.

Go With What You Know

One way to dip your toe in the tech pool is to use tech that’s already familiar to you. For instance, every teacher who is part of the public education system and mainstream society has sent an email. Start there! ELA instructors can have units on electronic communication etiquette and formatting, even including resume writing as part of the lesson for either a general composition or business communications class. It’s information that students genuinely need, and requires computers to teach it. Voíla! A computer-based, engaging learning activity is born.

Single Sign-on

Issue computer profiles to students, staff, and faculty alike so that once individuals sign on they will have access to all of their password-protected software and resources.

Tech Training For Teachers

Ongoing updates in edtech and regular training will help keep everyone on the same page, so edtech must take a prominent place during Professional Development in-service time. However, taking time for self-education throughout the year by interacting on sites like Edshelf.com can enhance lesson planning with inspiring results.

BYOT/BYOD Problems And Suggested Policy Strategies

A host of issues flood in with students using their own personal devices to complete work in school. While no educator should be held liable for the activities of minors at home on their personal devices, the picture gets fuzzier in the classroom.

Computers in Schools

Bring your own Technology and Bring your own Device (BYOT or BYOD) offers breathing room to cash-strapped school districts, with the trade-off being the slight headache BYOD brings on. BYOD raises the following issues:

Potential Barriers To Interoperability

Personal devices come with personal tastes, in multiple platforms and operating systems. Naturally, they’re not always going to be compatible. If a lesson calls for students to work from their digital devices to participate, look for apps or software that works across multiple platforms – for instance, Microsoft Word is now available on the iPad.

When sharing is desired, students with compatible devices can be put into groups together. Additionally, when developing a BYOD policy, districts may put limits on the types and brands of acceptable devices in order to minimize incompatibility issues. For instance, the policy could specify that any Chromebook made after 2017 is acceptable, and offer Chromebooks for use by students who do not wish to purchase one.

Accessibility and Equity. Any time that students bring in devices from home, the differences between the haves and have-nots push to the surface. Again, allowing only a narrow range of devices in the classroom per the official BYOD policy can mitigate this effect.

Computers As A Means To Closing The Equity And Accessibility Gap

Technology can increase equity and accessibility of learning by allowing access to databases and tools previously out of reach for those in rural areas, poorer sections of cities, and lower income areas in general. For example, offering Chromebooks or tablets to all students as a default, with BYOD as an alternative, gives students without the family resources to purchase computers or maintain hi-speed internet service, a way out that giving devices only to students “in need” does not. More importantly, the difficulties raised by the aforementioned Office of Educational Technology report are completely resolved if students have access to devices that include broadband internet service.

In her article “The Homework Gap,” Clare Mclaughlin discusses the conflict that comes up when tech innovation runs up against the brick wall of funding restraints:

“This past year, Qualcomm teamed up with AT&T and Samsung to run a pilot program at Alvin Dunn that provided the school’s sixth-graders with tablets connected via AT&T LTE mobile broadband service.  More than half of the sixth-grade class does not have wireless access at home. With these connected devices, they no longer have to arrive at school 45 minutes early to finish an online assignment or stay later to get through some online reading.”

Indeed, hi-speed internet has moved from a luxury to a real necessity as other information centers presuppose individuals’ possession of it. Not having it now is the equivalent of NOT having a computer in the mid-late 90s. Yes, teachers still accepted hand-written papers or offered more lab time to students without them, but the students who had access to the computer at home were clearly able to plan out the assignment more easily, do more work in less time, and not have the additional emotional stress of having their family’s finances once again interfering with their learning. The same is true of hi-speed internet service. Lack of reliable, consistent access to the internet acts as a barrier to learning and a mechanism of social isolation. Since many services and utilities now run or partially rely on an internet connection, the Department of Education points to 100% coverage in every area for every student as a goal to reach by the end of the decade.

Parental Consent

With all of these great opportunities available in educational Technology, students easily run the risk of having their data compromised or being exposed to harmful material. To protect themselves from liability, software developers may require that students first have their parents give consent via parental email to use software – sort of like confirming a link before being able to receive newsletters from a blogger. In order to save some time and headaches, instructors can draft general letters of authorization for parents to sign. Schools can keep these authorizations on file and submit them in lieu of individual parental consent emails being sent whenever a new app is used. Not all developers will accept this.

Computers (And Apps) Are The Way Of The World

If educators cannot teach students how to get along in an increasingly digital age, then they will, by and large, limp along. Students need guidance in order to understand how to manage the overwhelming amount and type of information, and teachers must be the guides.  We let go of slates, and someday, we may likewise do away with paper assignments.

A Moral Imperative

Computers are taking over and there’s no turning back. To behave as though the analog world is not passing away into the past jeopardizes the future employment of our students. As the Office of Educational Technology urges, districts must find ways to provide digital access to all students regardless of their location or socioeconomic status. In order for the nation as a whole to compete, and in the interest of parity, the educational community must adjust.

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Lightning Fast Guide to Using Slide Master in PowerPoint 2016

Do you find yourself making a lot of formatting changes to your slideshows? Do you have to constantly rearrange the placeholders in each slide so things look the way you feel they should? Do the color options never seem to match what you need? Would you like to add a company logo or watermark? Then it’s time to look into PowerPoint’s Slide Master tool.

Microsoft PowerPoint 2016

Purpose of Slide Master

Slide Master allows you to make changes to the formatting and layout of the slides in your presentation. You can change fonts, font sizes, font colors, and colors. You can also add things like the company or organizational logos to your slides, or perhaps a watermark for the background.  Another key aspect of Slide Master is the ability to format and adjust the placement of the slide number, date, and footer text for your slides. You can also rearrange or resize the default placeholders that hold titles, text, or other media.

Accessing SlideMaster

There are two ways to access Slide Master:

  • First Way: Navigate to the View ribbon and then click on Slide Master
  • Second Way: Shift – Normal View button (see bottom right of the screen)

Once you’ve opened up Slide Master, on the left-hand side of the screen you can see thumbnails for the different types of layouts, such as title, comparison slides, image, and others. At the top level of this outline is the master slide.  By default, Slide Master will open up to the type of slide you were on when you opened it.

Making Changes in Slide Master

Any changes to layout or formatting in the top-level master slide will be changed in all the slides in your presentation. You would use the master slide to make changes to all the different types of slides at one time. For example, if you wanted to add a logo to the bottom of all your slides, this would be the place to add that logo. You can quickly check how your changes will affect your existing presentation by exiting out of Slide Master.

If you add text to the title or object area placeholders, it will not appear on your slides. This is because these placeholders are for modifying the formatting only. The text will appear only to show you how the formatting is going to look on the final slides.

Customizing Slide Layouts

Modifying slide layouts is good when you need all of a particular type of slide changed. For example, suppose you want to move the caption on an image slide (e.g., Content with Caption Layout) because it is obscuring the company logo you added. Then you can scroll down through the thumbnails on the left-hand side of the screen until you find that type of slide, click on it, and then rearrange the caption until everything fits the way you want it to. When you exit Slide Master, those changes will be made on all slides of that layout type. And any new slides you add using that layout type will also reflect those changes.

Modifying and Adding Footer Objects

There are three placeholders in the footer area of the slides: slider number, data, and footer text. These are a little bit harder to work within Slide Master. You can make changes to how you want the footer placeholders to look, but they will not appear on the slides unless you do the following once you have exited Slide Master:

  • Go to the Insert tab
  • Click on either Header & Footer or Slide Number
  • A box will appear that allows you to set up the actual text for the footer and the numbering scheme, and to indicate whether or not you want this information to appear on the title slide
  • Once you’ve entered all the information you need to, click Apply to All (if you click Apply, it will only add this information to the current slide)

Many people try to add their company name to the footer in Slide Master, only to have it not show up when they go back to the normal slide view. Remember, as mentioned earlier, that any text you type into a placeholder is only used to show you what the formatting changes would look like, not to add that text to the slides.

Exiting Slide Master

To exit Slide Master, make sure you are on the Slide Master ribbon. On the far right-hand side of the ribbon, there is a button that has an X in it and says Close Master View. Clicking this will return you to normal slide view.

Conclusion

Slide Master is a great way to make overall changes to the layout and formatting of your PowerPoint presentation. Taking the time to learn how to use it properly will make you a much more efficient PowerPoint user and can add that extra level of customization that helps to make your slides stand out.

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NOAA Predicts Less Active Atlantic Hurricane Season But What Does That Really Mean?

NOAA has revised its May prediction regarding the Atlantic hurricane season, saying that forecasters are now expecting a less intense season than originally anticipated. As we are entering what often proves to be the worst time of year for hurricanes in the Atlantic, that’s good news — but it doesn’t mean the danger is over!

Hurricane Season 2018

NOAA’s Revised Predictions

As of early August, NOAA gave the following updated predictions regarding this year’s hurricane season for the Atlantic:

  • 9 to 13 total named storms are predicted (winds 39 mph or greater)
  • 4 to 7 of those storms are expected to become hurricanes (winds in excess of 73 mph)
  • Of the hurricanes, up to 2 are expected to turn into major hurricanes (winds in excess of 110 mph)

Thus far, in the Atlantic, there have been only 5 named storms (Alberto, Beryl, Chris, Debby, and Ernesto). Two of those developed into hurricanes, but neither of them went on to develop into major hurricanes.

Based on NOAA’s current predictions, there will be between 4 and 8 more storms, of which 2 to 5 may turn into hurricanes. Of the hurricanes, there is a chance that none of them will turn into major hurricanes, but there still remains a threat of severe storms for the U.S. Keep in mind that this does not involve landfall predictions, which are more closely tied to short-term weather patterns.

Another aspect of their revised predictions involves the probability of whether or not this will prove to be a normal hurricane season. The current forecast is:

  • A 10% chance that this will prove to be an above-normal season
  • A 30% chance of a near normal season
  • A 60% chance of a below normal season

The highest probability indicates that we can expect a below normal season, which is good news for all involved – especially those areas that were hit hard last year. This prediction is up from 25% probability of a below normal season from NOAA’s predictions back in May.

Why We’ve Had A Below Normal Season Thus Far

Hurricanes in FloridaWe’ve reached what is considered peak hurricane season, and thus far the predictions have proven accurate.  One of the measures of the lifetime and strength of storms is Accumulated Cyclone Energy. Thus far, the accumulated cyclone energy for the Atlantic is below average for this time of year. The hurricane season is remaining extremely mild, and meteorologists have attributed this to three key things: cooler temperatures, dry air, and El Niño.

The first reason for a below-normal season prediction is cooler than average temperatures, including those across the surface of the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. Temperatures have also been cooler between the Lesser Antilles and Africa. When disturbances exit Africa, they are met with cool air and a stable atmosphere that works to suppress them.

Air in certain regions of the Atlantic has been much drier than usual, making for an atmosphere that is inhospitable to the development of storms. Another major factor is El Nino. Right now, meteorologists are predicting a 60-70% likelihood El Niño will develop with enough strength to suppress further storms. El Niño is expected to produce enough wind shear to disrupt thunderstorm formation.

Thoughts as We Enter Peak Season

Hurricane season comes to an end on November 30, but we aren’t out of danger yet. Historically, most of the devastating hurricanes tend to occur between the last part of August and late September. That means the most dangerous time of hurricane season is already upon us, and the longer we go without a hurricane then the more likely it is that one will develop.

Right now, meteorologists are predicting multiple tropical waves in development along the western coast of Africa. This is known as the Main Development Region (MDR) for Atlantic hurricane and has a major impact on the development of Atlantic hurricanes. Weather forecasters are predicting an uptick in activity that will no doubt have an effect on the most active month of the Atlantic hurricane season — September. Historically, more hurricanes tend to form in the Atlantic during the month of September than any other month of the year.

Hurricane Katrina made landfall in New Orleans on August 29, 2005. Hurricane Harvey made landfall on August 25, 201,7 in South Texas. Hurricane Wilma made landfall in South Florida on October 24, 2005. That shows the range of dates that we can expect from landfalls of major hurricanes.

Hurricane Season

Conclusion

The Atlantic hurricane season has been quite mild this year, due in no small part to lower sea and ocean surface temperatures, dryer air, and the development of El Niño. While in all likelihood we won’t see the same level of hurricane-wrought devastation that we experienced last year, there remains a significant threat of hurricanes — especially with recent developments in the Atlantic hurricanes’ MDR. Keep in mind that these are only predictions, and that it only takes one severe hurricane to wreak havoc and destruction to an entire state. After a full year, people in Houston, Texas are still recovering from Hurricane Harvey. Stay alert to warnings, and don’t take the personal safety of you or your family for granted simply because this is expected to be a below normal hurricane season.

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Is Office 365 Worth It?

A Look Inside a Company Who Has Successfully Made the Switch

If you are self-employed or run a business, you more than likely use Microsoft Office in some or most of your day-to-day operations.

If you haven’t made the switch to Microsoft Office 365, you have probably considered it or given it some thought. Maybe you’ve been so busy running your business that you’re not sure exactly what Office 365 can offer over traditional Microsoft Office software. Let’s take a closer look.

What Exactly is Office 365?

Here is Microsoft’s product description:

Office 365 refers to subscription plans that include access to Office

applications plus other productivity services that are enabled over the

Internet (cloud services), such as Lync web conferencing and Exchange

Online hosted email for business, and additional online storage with

OneDrive and Skype world minutes for home.

To break Microsoft’s description down, you get access to full Office desktop apps, mobile apps for Android and iOS for your tablets and smartphones, OneDrive storage, Skype minutes and more.

Basically, this is Microsoft Office for the Cloud.

As a business owner, it’s important to decide whether it’s wise to keep using the traditional perpetual-license versions of Office. An Office 365 subscription does include a lot more features and they’re accessible from anywhere. Your employees can work from home computers or smartphones.

If we’re talking big picture, making that switch to 365 presents a lot of benefits for you and your business.

  • Office 365 offers a regular and predictable subscription rate. The office programs are updated automatically. Contrast this with buying the physical version that must be upgraded every few years.
  • You can install Office apps on multiple devices without encountering all the activation issues that can come with software downloads.
  • Since it is cloud-based, Microsoft offers regular patches for any known vulnerabilities.
  • Gain access to Microsoft’s vast collection of cloud-based services.

Let’s Look at a Company Who Has Already Made the Switch

Henkel, a chemical products manufacturer based out of Düsseldorf, Germany, made the switch to Office 365 back in 2015. With nearly four years of regular use, their company is a good case study to observe and calculate if the switch to Office 365 was worth it.

Henkel has made a name for itself by manufacturing laundry and home care products, beauty supplies, and adhesives. With their products being used by consumers and organizations in over 75 countries, Henkel needs to implement their software solutions in various languages.

To achieve their business goals, the company is proactive in implementing the latest technology to provide a modern workplace for employees. As the world continues to be more and more connected, this company understands the need to connect team members with their business partners and customers to produce successful outcomes.

Before making the switch to Office 365, Henkel had an aging IT set-up with outdated productivity tools. These antiquated tools did not allow team members to collaborate and communicate with the company’s 47,000 employees. Implementing Microsoft Office 365 changed the way they operated, and they observed immediate benefits. Since adding Office 365, Henkel has increased productivity and employees can stay connected across all departments and locations around the globe.

Choosing to take a huge jump and invest in the cloud instead of upgrading their old systems, they were able to simplify the environment in which they operated.

Not only were they more connected across their massive company, Henkel also noted the benefits of a simplified way to work in mobile situations. Team members were able to freely work outside the office space and connect with their business partners and customers.

Watch Henkel’s Office 365 Video HERE

What Are Your Purchasing Options?

If you choose to adopt Office 365, the next decision is picking the right Office 365 edition for you and your business. As with everything else in the modern workplace, Microsoft offers more than a dozen options to choose from, at prices ranging from $5 to $35 a month, per user.

Office 365

Every Office 365 package includes:

  • Office desktop apps for Windows or Mac – They are frequently updated giving you the latest version.
  • The ability to install the desktop programs on up to five PCs or Macs.
  • Exchange Online Email.
  • 1TB of OneDrive cloud file storage.
  • Mobile apps for installation on up to five phones and five tablets, running iOS (iPhone or iPad), Android or Windows.
  • Collaboration and communication tools for your employees.

Microsoft breaks down the options to purchase an Office 365 Home subscription or an Office 365 business edition. Some of the smaller businesses may able to get by using a home subscription if their needs are small or if they are self-employed.

For a complete list of your purchasing options, you can visit the Microsoft Office 365 Store for Home and the Microsoft Office 365 Store for Business.