Alert: Action Required : Upgrade to Latest Acrobat Reader for Windows?

I received a number of these emails just now so it looks like a mass sending of emails is under way to most likely trick people in some way. If you receive any unsolicited emails regarding Acrobat Reader software you should delete the emails.

Don’t click on links in unsolicited emails. Open your browser and go to the Adobe site if you require an updated version of Adobe Reader or other products.

All other emails will undoubtedly by fake with malicious intent. This email has links to a web site which has name servers ending in .ru which indicates Russia. The web site was registered supposedly by someone with an address in London in the UK.

I often wonder why if these emails lead to a valid web site address the site can’t be taken down immediately so no harm is done. The domain registrars should take more responsibility and act quickly to minimise harm to the community. They are after all making money from providing the domains so people can get ripped off so they should take more responsibility for their services.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.JustLocal.com.au

 

Red Energy increases electricity Service To Property charge by 25%

When I received the letter from Red Energy regarding electricity price increases it is never a good omen. However when I looked at the Service To Property charge, I was floored. A staggering 25% increase and this is before we see the flow on from the Carbon Tax which will add hundreds of dollars a year to most people’s energy bills.

The problem is I feel we’re being conned by the government. As people install low energy lights, solar panels and other government initiatives, the cost of those initiatives will be put back onto us through our energy bills. We are in effect being taxed indirectly and we can’t see the taxes. The government schemes are not cost effective. Each low energy light which can be purchased for a dollar or two is worth $10 as part of the scheme and we all end up paying for that.

I decided to pay for my own low energy lights, reduce my electricity usage rather than putting in solar panels which would put a cost on myself and neighbours, but now, even though we use under 40% of the average household, that effort is being eroded as the government cost is being put on the Service To Property, which is a cost I can’t reduce.

The irony is those who installed solar panels will soon find their savings completely eroded by the energy credits they now have to pay for via their increased energy bills. A group of 11 neighbours got together and found their saving from installing solar panels to be only around $200 a year. Now with this increase, a significant portion of that saving will have been further eroded. They’re unlikely to ever recover the cost of installing the panels.

What can we do about it? Unfortunately I’m at a loss as to what we can do about. For the government this is about raising taxes indirectly. They know we don’t have any real choices when it comes to power and gas.

When you are reviewing electricity retailers, a very important figure to consider is their Service To Property charge. Don’t just look at the kWh rate. I’ve found some retailers with lower kWh rates to end up being more expensive because of their Service To Property charge. A good technique is to enter your usage for the last 12 months and then compare both the rate and the service to property charges across electricity and gas retailers.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.JustLocal.com.au

 

MyAnswers: Google Samsung Nexus S available online for $269.

The following MyAnswers solution 2188 is now available:

Google Nexus S available online for $269.

Click here to obtain the solution.

Click here for related solutions.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.MyAnswers.biz
(An Online Connections service.)

Many thanks to Anthony Osborne for his articles during 2011.

For those living in the Rowville/Lysterfield area you may wish to keep an eye on the JustLocal blog maintained by Anthony Osborne (www.AnthonyOsborne.com). A big thanks to Anthony for the articles helping to keep the community of Rowville and Lysterfield updated with happenings in their area.

You can read the Rowville/Lysterfield blog at www.AnthonyOsborne.com and also http://justlocal3178.blogspot.com.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.JustLocal.com.au

MyAnswers: Brother all-in-one unit MFC-885CW shows NO CARTRIDGE.

The following MyAnswers solution 2187 is now available:

Brother all-in-one unit MFC-885CW shows NO CARTRIDGE on the display even though there is a cartridge installed.

Click here to obtain the solution.

Click here for related solutions.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.MyAnswers.biz
(An Online Connections service.)

Do you know who you're dealing with?

I recently wrote a blog post for Credit Matters to provide atip to help business people check out new businesses they may be dealing with. The blog post is republished here for JustLocal readers.

Have you ever received an email out of the blue and thought you’d be interested in the services of the business. Dealing with a complete stranger is potentially a recipe for a disaster. One technique to gain more information, which I find very useful, is to use the government’s ABN site. You can check out the person’s business details by entering their ABN number or their business name. Whilst this doesn’t mean they’ll be good to deal with, at least you’ve started the review process and the information you gather can be very useful.

For example I met a person who promoted themselves as being very successful in a networking group. When I checked their details they weren’t registered for GST, which meant at the time their business turnover was less than $50,000 a year. I have no problems dealing with other small businesses, but I do feel a little cautious when people try to portray themselves as different from what they are. With another business in Eltham, I wanted to purchase a dishwasher, but since I couldn’t find their business name in the register I didn’t feel confident in using their business.

I check out businesses a number of times a week and going to the government web site, and then through their pages, I found was a bit slow. To speed things up I created a search engine I could add to Internet Explorer. The search engine is the field in the top right of Internet Explorer versions 7 and 8, and in Internet Explorer 9 the search engine has been combined with the field where you enter a web site address. A lot of people don’t even know the search engine feature is there but I find it a very useful feature. I can now enter the ABN number or the company name, select the ABN search by number or name, and presto, I have their details.

If you regularly check ABN details for businesses and would like to install the ABN search engines in Internet Explorer, visit the “Fun With Search” page I created (http://www.justlocal.com.au/clients/search-fun/), scroll down to the Australian Business Number section and click on each of the links to install the search engines. (Don’t set the search engine as the default as more than likely you don’t want the ABN search engine as the default.)

Once the search engine is installed you can search the ABN register by number or name. For example, in the search box in Internet Explorer type “Online Connections” (without the quotes), click on the drop down arrow next to the search field, select “JustLocal ABN (Name)” and you’ll go direct to the ABN site. There you’ll see the first two entries which are for my business.

This is where it gets exciting. You can see the postcode so you know where I’m located. You’ll see two entries so you can see how my business structure has changed over time. You can see the business is registered for GST. Most importantly you’ve confirmed the business is a registered entity.

Checking that a business is registered is just one of the steps you can take to check out a business you may wish to deal with. By adding an ABN search engine to the Internet Explorer browser the task of checking the ABN details becomes very quick and easy. I trust you’ll find using the search engine as convenient as I do.

Kelvin Eldridge
Online Connections
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Alert: Daily Deal - APPLE IPHONE 4S BLACK 64GB 24CT GOLD PLATED

I received a number of copies of an email with the subject Daily Deal - APPLE IPHONE 4S BLACK 64GB 24CT GOLD PLATED.  These emails are fake and should be deleted.

What is interesting about this fake email is that nearly all the links in the email are links to eBay. If you check links before visiting the site to see if the advertisement is legitimate this could trick some people. You need to check all the links and in particular the link you use. The email is well formed and looks like and eBay email which could trick a number of people.

The emails were sent from Italy and the suspect links resolve to an Italian domain.

Take care in the run up to Christmas and the subsequent sales period. A bargain too good to be true probably is.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

"Flash Player Upgrade required" message when in Facebook. - MyAnswers

The following MyAnswers solution 2186 is now available:

"Flash Player Upgrade required" message when in Facebook. I've installed the Flash upgrade. Every time I restart the computer I have to upgrade Flash again as I get the same message. I'm using Windows Vista.

Click here to obtain the solution.

Click here for related solutions.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.MyAnswers.biz
(An Online Connections service.)

Dodo Buddy Box. Low cost landline too good to believe.

I’ve now completed my trials of the Dodo Buddy Box over a period of a couple of months. Those interested in purchasing a Dodo Buddy Box would benefit from reading MyAnswers solution 2168.

The Dodo Buddy Box offers the promise of a low cost landline for home users and at $9.90 a month including $10 worth of calls it really is a great offer. But the question is, “is it too good to be true?”

I purchased the Dodo Buddy Box and decided to share my experiences and my testing. A landline for $9.90 a month would suit many young people and could save them a great deal of money compared to using a mobile phone as the Dodo Buddy Box provides fixed cost local calls.

For those interested check out MyAnswers solution 2168.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Backup programs for Online Connections and JustLocal clients

Backup programs used to be popular software packages, but now there doesn’t seem to be an easy low cost method for people to backup their data from their computer. I’ve reviewed a lot of mainstream programs and frankly I haven’t found them to be very good. One program I did find to be good, but the supplier isn’t’ actively promoting the program so I don’t expect it will have a long term life.

Windows used to have an excellent backup program built into Windows XP, but since Vista and Windows 7 were released, the backup program included with Windows is adequate.

I decided there had to be a better way to perform the relatively simple task of performing a backup by copying the desired folders from a computer to an external drive. I wanted the files to be copied and not amalgamated into a single big backup file because if a restore is required, a person can easily copy the file from the external drive back to their computer. I wanted each backup to be separate as a single backup is easily overwritten by corrupted data. I wanted a program to check the files copied matched in number and total bytes to ensure the backup completed successfully.

As part of my consulting and support service I’m now able to install a simple backup approach for clients as part of the service call with no cost for software.

One of the biggest problems I have is when I arrive at a new client’s premises, is invariably they haven’t done a backup and that can add hundreds of dollars in time to their support cost. To start working on a computer without having a current copy of the main files is not best practice. Whilst in many cases you can fix a problem, there is always the risk of losing data and people will be very unhappy if they lose their important data, emails and photos.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for computer support in Templestowe and the surrounding suburbs.
No call-out fee or minimum charge for local customers.
Satisfaction guaranteed.

 

Alert: Mercury Exposure. DONT TAKE THIS LIGHTLY

I received an email from a family member who had received the email from another family member. The subject was Mercury Exposure and the email contained two PDF files (Mercury Exposure.pdf and Health & Safety Warning – energy saving bulbs.pdf).

The email is a hoax designed to trick people to send it on.

Before sending on emails like this it is a good idea to search the internet to check whether it is a hoax or not. The problem is people receive this information from a trusted friend and believe it to be true. You owe it to the people you know to check the validity of the information before sending it on. It only takes a moment with a Google search on key phrases in the email to determine it is a hoax.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

MyAnswers: Woolworths Homeshop, Coles Online prices compared to Coles supermarket.

The following MyAnswers solution 2185 is now available:

How does Woolworths Homeshop and Coles Online prices compare with going to the Coles supermarket?

Click here to obtain the solution.

Click here for related solutions.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.MyAnswers.biz
(An Online Connections service.)

Alert: Decrapifier mentioned on radio recently caused computer to stop working and constantly reboot.

I recently attended a client who had heard on a radio station about a decrapifier program which could clean up their computer. They downloaded and ran their computer. As a result, when the computer restarted it would constantly reboot. There was no way to run Safe mode because selecting any option would reboot the computer.

I’d highly recommend that you do not risk using one of these programs. It is very easy to clean up your computer manually and there is less risk of a problem.

It took many hours to get this computer up and running again. I use techniques not generally known by an average user. I prefer to fix a computer if I can, because often there is important data on the computer the person would prefer to save such as their photographs, data and documents. In this situation the cost effective approach would normally be to reinstall the operating system but that could mean loss of data.

Do keep in mind when you’re listening to radio, watching TV, or reading newspaper articles, those presenting the information have a job to present the information and in most cases won’t be running a computer support business. It is very easy to read and report on information and new programs, but working with and living with those programs is where you find out what works and what doesn’t work.

As another example, one of my clients heard on radio about a site which they visited. They ended up infecting their computer with malware which displayed pornographic material. That wasn’t a good outcome for the office and took a number of hours to fix.

Be careful of the advice you receive from the general media. In general it is good information and I believe no harm would ever be intended, but well meaning advice doesn’t always end up with a good outcome.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Today I was blog spammed by Function Rooms Melbourne

I thought I’d share what I think is becoming an epidemic on the internet and it is blog spam. Email spam is now illegal, but blog spamming isn’t. It may not be appropriate, and to a degree, most of us at one stage or another will blog spam by writing an article on a site which has a link back to our own site. We give to get a little and generally both parties are benefiting. The comment is legitimate because you’ve read the article and want to add value to the site by adding your information. In return the site appreciates the extra input and is happy to give some link love to the contributor. A win-win for both parties.

But what I suspect is now happening is people are purchasing article marketing programs which submit a generic article to hundreds or thousands of web sites automatically. The aim is to get more links so Google will raise the importance of the person’s site so they get more business. As a business strategy this is a good move, but is it right to post rubbish on others’ sites for your own benefit. I don’t think it is. The means does not always justify the end.

Google was built on the principle of the importance of a site was based on the number of sites linking to the site and in the early days of the internet that was a good strategy. For example Adobe’s site scores a 10 out of 10 in terms of PageRank (Google’s measure of importance) because so many people use Acrobat Reader and link to Adobe’s site so people can easily download and install the software.

Now however, the importance of a site if links are used, is only as good a someone purchasing a program and then spamming thousands of other sites. Blog spamming is possible, it isn’t illegal, but is it a good business methodology and in my opinion it isn’t. If a business uses inappropriate techniques it reflects on the ethics of the business. Just because something can be done it doesn’t necessarily mean it should be.

Right now I am looking for a function room, but I wouldn’t even consider Function Rooms Melbourne because of their approach to business.

Just as interesting when I checked their site, every comment on their site was blog spam. When I see a site with a lot of blog spam I consider that business to lack quality control.

If you’re considering automatically posting articles to sites using an article marketing robot or similar technique, ask yourself how will that reflect on your business. There are a lot of cowboys in the internet market who are prepared to make money and that could be at the expense of your business reputation. Be careful.

If you have a site, turn off the automatic acceptance of comments and review the comments. Most comments now are blog spam. In the past people didn’t know about blog spam so they saw lots of comments as a sign of activity. Now if you see lots of activity which is blog spam, it indicates the comments don’t have any value, even the legitimate ones.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au   

Alert: Virgin Mobile - Issue found and fixed.

I regularly receive and malicious emails advise readers. One form of a malicious email is an email which comes from a well known company. The email looks legitimate because it is can be a very good copy of a legitimate email that has been sent out by the company. The very good copies are almost impossible to distinguish from the original. The links in the email usually give the fake email away as they take people to a site which looks like the company, but is a slightly different domain name. A small change tricks many people into revealing their username and password details.

Today I received an email which is most likely from Virgin Mobile, but what looks suspicious is the links in the email don’t go directly to the Virgin Mobile site. They go via a site that appears unrelated. I suspect the site is a marketing site, where if you click on the link they can measure who clicked and then track that person. But is isn’t a Virgin Mobile site. If you follow the link you’ll then be redirected to the Virgin site.

I consider this to be bad form for a large company like Virgin. Given the large number of people who are tricked into revealing their details there is no reason to provide a link. People can be advised to go to the site which can be provided as straight text for people to copy and paste into their browser.

The following is the start of the email.

Hi Kelvin,

Our technical team has recently corrected an error in your service which may have caused some of your data to expire a day or two before its due date.

As an apology for the error and as a gesture of goodwill, we're going to add 300MB of data to your account.

Now given I’m on a yearly data plan and it is many months before my plan expires, this really is a suspicious email. In addition I did have a problem with Virgin Mobile. I updated my details so all communication would go to my email address and not a Virgin email address. The problem is this doesn’t apply to your data usage. I thought I’d be advised when the first months data was expiring but those emails didn’t go to the address I provided and I lost a couple of gigabytes of data. Now I’m receiving an email which doesn’t appear to be related to my plan so it really does feel suspicious. The only way I can check is to call their customer service, who when I called last time to provide constructive feedback to help Virgin I was treated quite abruptly, so I really don’t want to spent the time waiting on the line to get treated poorly  again.

I highly recommend that if you do receive an email from Virgin Mobile, or any other company, and in particular when it requires you to enter a username and password, don’t click on a link in the email. Open your browser and enter the web site address. If you do that you can’t be tricked by the scammers.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Computer PC repair - Templestowe, Doncaster, Doncaster East, Templestowe Lower, Eltham, Lower Plenty, Montmorency

Two new customers, who were local, recently made comments when I was repairing their computers.

The first was, that because I was local, how much easier it was to get the computer fixed. Instead of having to unplug all the cables, trying to remember where they went, then lugging the computer off to a business a few suburbs away and then picking it up again a few days later, all they had to do was call me in. In fact not only did I repair the problem I was called in for, but I also cleaned up two other computers whilst the first computer was downloading software or running programs when nothing else could be done.

The second person said it removed a lot of pressure for them. The previous person who helped them was from the other side of the city and so they felt uncomfortable about the time involved getting them out to look at their problem. I fixed the problem for this person in about 15 minutes, which is all they would have been charged for, since I don’t charge a call out fee or a fixed hourly charge. They had issues with the performance of the computer which I also fixed for them.

If you have a computer or computer related problem, live in Templestowe, Doncaster, Doncaster East, Templestowe Lower, Eltham, Lower Plenty or Montmorency, send me an email or give me a call on 0415 910 703. Because I’m just around the corner, it really does change the way support is provided. It is much easier to organise a time for support because I don’t have to fight traffic and travel half way across Melbourne. In quite a few cases people have additional problems they’d like looked at. If a second trip is required there isn’t any pressure. I can return at a suitable time because there is very little travel involved. More often than not I can complete additional tasks if required because there is very little travel time to the next customer.

Providing local support is a win-win situation. I don’t have to fight my way through traffic and customers don’t have to pay a call-out or travel fee. I recall when I worked for a Chartered Accounting firm that for one client there was an hour of travel to get to the client, an hour of work and then an hour of return travel. That’s three hours of chargeable time where the benefit to the client is one hour of actual work. That doesn’t happen when you provide local support. I also like the idea that I’m not impacting the environment as much by minimising the travel involved.

With no call-out fee, and no minimum hourly charge, the customer only pays for the time involved to fix their problem. I also offer a satisfaction guarantee which means I’m not happy if the customer isn’t happy. It hasn’t happened yet, but I offer it because one day there will be a problem I can’t solve.

Supporting locals really does have a great feel about it. Because I live in the same area as customers we already have something in common. I know I’m helping a local when I go out to fix a problem and that’s a pretty good feeling.

Kelvin Eldridge

www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 if you have a computer related problem and need help.

 

Opera Mini 6.5 now available for the Apple iPhone.

Yesterday I installed the update to Opera for the Apple iPhone. Even though I don’t use it much, there are times when pages do not display correctly in Safari and in those cases I’ve found Opera to be very handy. Another neat feature is Opera compresses data and it shows you how much data you’ve saved using their servers. If you need to watch your data allowance this may be a good way to save quite a few megabytes whilst browsing. This Opera update initially didn’t display some pages correctly for me so you need to check the settings.

I also share my notes with others via the MyAnswers web site (www.MyAnswers.biz) and when I enter another MyAnswers solution, I publish a blog entry on the MyAnswers blog to let people know of the new solution. With over 2,000 solutions MyAnswers is a wealth of knowledge I use nearly every day to assist my clients. The solutions are made available to the public for a small charge.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

 

SEO firms, Optimizing SEO and JustLocal

The aim of JustLocal is to provide low cost advertising guaranteed to work for micro and small businesses to help promote their business in their local area. Many online directories include information on businesses in their database which helps grow the directories presence on the internet. Our approach is to link directly to the site of the business. By doing this we help promote and grow your business internet presence.

By building a stronger local business community, services such as SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) become less important, but why put all your eggs in the one basket. We have often passed on tips and assisted businesses with their search engine optimisation. A couple of basic techniques can take a site from having no presence to having a very good presence. One client had no presence when people searched for their business name using Google with Pages From Australia. Now they have a number one position for their business name.

Now the business has the best of both worlds. A presence in JustLocal for their local area and a presence in Google for those searching for their business name using Pages from Australia.

If you’re a small business owner and thinking about hiring an SEO firm (which can be very costly with no guarantee of a result) then consider advertising with JustLocal. Chances are, if we see something obvious which will enhance your presence on the internet, we’ll pass on the tip as part of our service. We don’t promote ourselves as an SEO firm, but we can also assist businesses with SEO techniques if required. You reached this page because of our SEO approach, so you know it works.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.JustLocal.com.au
(JustLocal, an Online Connections service.)

Is American spelling causing you a problem in Microsoft Office, Word or Outlook?

Many people mention they have a problem with American spelling in their documents. I’ve heard of lecturers frowning on students using American spelling, from a number of people attending different tertiary institutions.

The problem isn’t the spelling, it is that most people assume that spelling words with “ize” is using the American spelling. In Australia we have the unusual situation where we have two or more ways to spell thousands of words. For example “organise” and “organize” are both correct in Australia. However the preferred spelling is “organise” and if you use “organize”, people will often consider the spelling is wrong.

It is now very easy to use the preferred Australian English spelling with the Exclude file I make available for Word 2003, Outlook 2003, Office 2007 and Office 2010 (which includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook and Access). The Exclude file marks thousands of words as incorrect spelling so you can easily use the preferred spelling, which also has the advantage of resulting in consistent spelling in your documents.

For more information visit the Microsoft Exclude page.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Helping Australians one word at a time.

Alert: Facebook app Pink Your Profile being a virus is a hoax.

A person said to me they'd been told they were concerned they’d installed a virus into their iPod Touch by running a Pink Your Profile app. I investigated this and found this was a hoax. The Pink Your Profile app appears to have been a legitimate app from CUA (Credit Union Australia) to raise money for the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

My initial thought was the person had run the app on their iPod Touch and it was very unlikely this would be a virus. Performing a search on the internet found the following page on the Hoax Slayer confirming this was a hoax.

Hoax - Facebook 'Add Pink Tinge to Your Profile' Virus Warning... Read More

If you are told about a virus I suggest that before telling others, that you first do a search on the internet. In addition, be careful of the sites you visit as part of your investigation because they could be malware sites set up to trick you. A number of clients now send requests to check out a suspicious email when they’re concerned.

A hoax like this is usually little more than a nuisance. But it is possible if people were to believe the hoax, that they may end up paying to have someone check their computer when in fact there was no need to incur the cost. If you receive a suspicious email, before letting your family and friends know please take a moment to do a little research. If you don’t you may end up causing unwanted and unnecessary stress, or even an unnecessary repair cost.

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
No problem too small.

Repco GearUP USB Car Charger Kit Universal gets the thumbs down.

Recently I purchased a Repco GearUP USB Car Charger Kit Universal which is a USB car charger kit which plugs into a car’s cigarette lighter and has two USB sockets for charging. Normally I stick with products I can purchase from my suppliers, but in this case because of the low value of the item, I decided to purchase one of these units on special for $9.99, reduced to half price.

I plugged the cable provided into my iPhone and the adaptor into a portable 12V battery designed to jump start a car and also provide power to accessories plus a number of other features. To my surprise and disappointment the iPhone 3GS reported it wouldn’t work with the device. I then plugged in the cable which came with the iPhone and it worked. Next I decided since it was a dual USB charger to plug in the iPhone 3GS and an Android mobile phone and charge both at the same time. Instead of the iPhone being charged, it was still losing power over time, whilst the Android phone did start to charge. I worked out you can only charge one device at a time.

It wasn’t worth the trip half way across Melbourne to where I purchased the unit, so like many people who purchase products that don’t live up to expectation, this one will probably end up in a draw and I’ll purchase a reputable product through my computer suppliers.

I didn’t expect to receive what I’d consider a substandard product from Repco, so I didn’t mind taking a chance. But from now on I’ll stick with the products I know and trust.

How many computer related devices have you purchased that don’t measure up to your expectation and end up in the draw?

At Online Connections I generally stick to devices and brands which have proven themselves across my client base over time. Often that doesn’t mean paying more. A good product can cost the same as a poor product. Marketers will often use the line “you get what you pay for” to encourage you to buy a particular product. To me what is important is the product proves itself in the field. Those are the products I’ll recommend to clients.

Kelvin Eldridge
http://www.onlineconnections.com.au/
Call 0415 910 703 if you require assistance with your computer.
Serving Doncaster, Templestowe, Eltham and the surrounding area.

Samsung Galaxy Nexus with Google Android 4 (Ice Cream Sandwich) announced.

I read the following announcement (Samsung Galaxy Nexus ... Read More) on the new Samsung Galaxy Nexus with the latest version of Android 4 and can’t help wonder what that means for the stocks being held of current Android mobile phones. I’ve noticed a number of Android based mobile phones being sold are based on Android 2.1. Even the new Amazon Kindle Fire is based on a fork of Android 2.3.

If you’re considering an Android mobile phone keep in mind the version number. I’d suggest avoiding Android 2.1 and prior mobile devices. Android 2.2 for me meant Skype worked and Android 2.3 I believe is when they brought out the quite useful hotspot feature. It really is hard to keep up with the frequent and small changes. I know a person who purchase a new Android mobile to end up with Android 1.6 and since they wanted to use Skype, they weren’t able to.

Android 4 is the version which purportedly brings the mobile phone and the tablet operating systems back into a single operating system.

The Samsung Galaxy Nexus is being released in parts of the world in November. That is quite a way from the Christmas buying season, so there is still plenty of time for new devices to hit the market.

The most important thing is to make a note of the version of the Android operating and make sure it has the features you want for your needs.

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems.
No problem too small.

MyAnswers: Facebook app doesn't work after upgrading Apple iPhone 4 to iOS 5.

The following MyAnswers solution 2180 is now available:

I upgraded my Apple iPhone 4 to iOS 5. Now when I go to click on Facebook it does nothing and I can't get Facebook to work. What can I do?

Click here to obtain the solution.

Click here for related solutions.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.MyAnswers.biz
(An Online Connections service.)

MyAnswers: I'm worried my computer is about to die. How do I back up my Outlook data?

The following MyAnswers solution 2177 is now available:

I'm worried my computer is about to die. How do I back up my Outlook data?

Click here to obtain the solution.

Click here for related solutions.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.MyAnswers.biz
(An Online Connections service.)

MyAnswers: What's the best simple database for contact to use? Outlook or Excel.

The following MyAnswers solution 2176 is now available:

What's the best simple database for contact to use? I have access to Outlook and Excel.

Click here to obtain the solution.

Click here for related solutions.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.MyAnswers.biz
(An Online Connections service.)

MyAnswers: Add business to Google Places. Nothing happens with Find Business Information.

The following MyAnswers solution 2175 is now available:

When I try to add my business in Google Places I enter the country, my telephone number and then click on Find Business Information and nothing happens. I can't get past the Find Business Information screen.

Click here to obtain the solution.

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Kelvin Eldridge
www.MyAnswers.biz
(An Online Connections service.)

MyAnswers: Acer One netbook A150 wireless connects to wireless network but doesn't work.

The following MyAnswers solution 2173 is now available:

Acer One netbook A150 wireless connects to wireless network but doesn't work.

Click here to obtain the solution.

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Kelvin Eldridge
www.MyAnswers.biz
(An Online Connections service.)

MyAnswers: A list of articles on iOS 5

The following MyAnswers solution 2172 is now available:

A list of articles on iOS 5 I've found on the internet which I felt may be useful to others.

Click here to obtain the solution.

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Kelvin Eldridge
www.MyAnswers.biz
(An Online Connections service.)

MyAnswers: Notes on the Applie iOS 5 operating system used on an Apple iPhone 3GS.

The following MyAnswers solution 2171 is now available:

Notes on the Applie iOS 5 operating system used on an Apple iPhone 3GS.

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Kelvin Eldridge
www.MyAnswers.biz
(An Online Connections service.)

iMessage is the interesting new feature of Apple's iOS 5

There are around 200 changes with the iOS 5 update and a couple caught my eye. The first will be iMessage. iMessage has the ability to reduce the cost of messaging other iPhone and Touch users which is good, but being limited to only Apple products means it won’t be as useful as it could be.

The other feature I’m interested in is the ability to create a keyboard shortcut for frequently used words. Now if that allows me to create a shortcut for my email addresses, that will be a handy addition.

What’s your favourite new feature?

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 if your require help with your computer or mobile device.
No problem too small.

 

iOS5 release date for Australia. iOS 5 is now available for download. Downloading iOS5 has begun

The Apple iOS 5 update for iPhone (3GS, 4, 4S), iPad, iPad 2, iPod Touch 3rd and 4rth generation is now available. Downloading appears to have started around 5 hours ago, which would have been 9am Pacific Time, or 3am in Melbourne, Australia.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 if you require assistance with your computer.
No problem too small.

Upgrade to Apple iTunes 10.5 in preparation for the Apple iPhone, Touch and iPad iOS 5 upgrade

I read on the Apple site iOS 5 requires iTunes 10.5. Apple released iTunes 10.5 yesterday in preparation for the iOS 5 upgrade. The iTunes 10.5 upgrade is now available in Australia and I tested the install. The iTunes 10.5 upgrade went fine but before performing the upgrade, there were a couple of additional updates available to be applied. The Apple Software Update 2.1.3 failed which prevented me from continuing the update and upgrading iTunes.

The solution to the Apple Software Update 2.1.3 failure is available in MyAnswers solution 2170 which can be found in the Apple iPhone/Touch/iPad section of MyAnswers. You can also find the solution on the Recent Solutions page.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 if you require assistance with your computer.
No problem too small.

Alert: MapQuest directions have been sent to you by mary201@aol.com.

I thought this email was an approach I'd not seen before. I then received multiple copies to different email addresses.

I'd recommend deleting these emails.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

A brief summary of JustLocal for Templestowe residents and businesses.

I wanted to share with others in Templestowe what JustLocal is about. I’m a computer consultant with a large amount of expertise across a range of computer related disciplines. I find the best way to show others is by example.

What I did is what anyone with a small amount of assistance can do. The difference between myself and others is I assist people and charge for my time. I share my knowledge so people aren’t tied to myself or my services. My hope is that by looking after their interests they’ll appreciate the services I offer. I’ve found it to be an approach which works well because others don’t work that way.

To  explain JustLocal for residents and businesses in Templestowe, I decided to build a web page. For any business this is very easy to do. If you can design a single page brochure to promote your business, your brochure can be reproduced with minimal time and cost as a web site to let others in your area know your business exists.

In this case I decided to register the domain for www.Templestowe.biz, set up hosting space, point the domain at the hosting space, create a web page and then upload the web page. In a couple of hours the page was live on the internet. I literally just set this up and it is live within minutes. You should however wait usually 24 hours to make sure the domain has filtered through the internet.

I have a number of low cost approaches I can show people how to set up a presence on the internet. Some approaches they can maintain themselves with minimal technical skills. All that is required is some basic training and some support when required. Other approaches require a little more training and some software.

With some basic training and support you can literally have a web presence up within 24 hours and your only out-of-pocket cost could be the domain, which costs around $10-$30 a year depending on the domain you wish to use.

I’d encourage every small business to get a presence on the internet. It looks so much more professional to send out emails for a business using yourname@yourbusinessname.com (or .com.au) than yourname@gmail.com or yourname@hotmail.com. By using a domain every email you send out helps promote your business. I find people do check out your web site based on your email address.

A lot of people put thousands into a web presence and the only business that makes money is the web developer. I believe people should start small and as your investment generates business for you, then reinvest some of that money and evolve your presence.

If you don’t have a web presence and want something to get your started give me a call. My aim is to use my skills to help others cost effectively promote their business on the internet.

If you just wish to read a little more about JustLocal then visit www.Templestowe.biz.


Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 if you’re local require assistance with a web presence.

Apple iPhone 4S, iOS 5 and iCloud press release, no iPhone 5.

The Apple iPhone 4S launch has now been held and I’m sure most people will be surprised to hear there was no iPhone 5 launched today. When you sit back and think about it, it makes sense the Apple iPhone 4S is an incremental update to the iPhone 4. The following is a link to the Apple press release.

iPhone 4S Features Dual-Core A5 Chip, All New Camera, Full 1080p HD Video Recording & Introduces Siri ... Read More

According to the press release, the Apple iPhone 4S will be available in Australia from Friday October 14^th. The iOS 5 software  will be available on October 12^th for iPhone, iPad and Touch customers.

Except, and I suppose it is a pretty big except, except for there being no iPhone 5, there wasn’t really much of a surprise in the announcement with much of what was announced being announced earlier in the WWDC 2011 (World Wide Developer Conference) held in June. The updated iPhone 4S contains the type of update you’d expect in terms of processor and camera improvements.

Since LTE (4G) is not yet established, I tend to feel we’ll see LTE in iPhone 5 and perhaps NFC. These are technologies that will become more prevalent next year and it makes sense to include the technology when it is mainstream.

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems

Apple iPhone 5 release announcement Australian time

The Apple iPhone 5 announcement is to be held at Apple’s headquarters in Cupertino at 10am on October 4. For others in Australia interested, this is 4am Melbourne time.

I purchased an iPhone 3GS because at the time it had the best browser, but I find the limitation of the Upload button being disabled to be one of my biggest issues which puts me off continuing in the future with an iPhone. For me the best smartphone will be the smartphone with the best browser with the least number of restrictions.

With the Apple iPhone 5 announcement I suspect the release of iOS 5 for previous iPhones will also be announced. I’m looking forward to seeing what has changed. The iMessage application looks interesting and there are a few other features which will be interesting to use.

Only a little over four hours and we’ll all know a lot more.

As a caution, do keep in mind if you only use a 3G data plan, upgrading iOS could easily cause you to exceed your limit and cause bill shock. I spoke with the local Apple store a while ago and the staff didn’t think it would be an issue to upgrade using their free wireless access. You should check first and make sure it is OK.

Until tomorrow.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Providing help with PCs, tablets and mobile phones.

MyAnswers: How to turn off the sound on Apple 3GS iPhone until the alarm goes off.

The following MyAnswers solution 2164 is now available:

I'm wondering if there's a way to turn off the sound on my phone (Apple 3GS iPhone) until the alarm goes off.

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Kelvin Eldridge
www.MyAnswers.biz
(An Online Connections service.)

Online Connections introduces a new concept in local computer repairs and computer support.

Online Connections introduces a new cost effective approach to computer repairs and computer support to residents and businesses in Templestowe, Templestowe Lower, Doncaster, Doncaster East, Eltham, Lower Plenty, Montmorency, Bulleen and Warrandyte.

Most computer support businesses charge a call out fee or a minimum fee. If you receive telephone support often you’ll receive support based out of an overseas country and have to wait a considerable amount of time on the telephone and then go through a time consuming explanation of your problem.

Because Online Connections is local (based in Templestowe) and comes to you, there is no call out fee and no minimum time. Instead of paying for an hour of support up front, your support could cost as little as one tenth of an hour (our cost effective billing interval). Because we’re local we don’t have to provide telephone support. We can usually arrive in less time than you’d have to wait on the telephone line for a support representative. That means you don’t waste time waiting on the telephone line.

Online Connections offers a professional level of support. We back our work with a satisfaction guarantee. Our aim is to solve your problem and make sure we provide value for money.

If you have a computer related problem contact Online Connections. Online Connections has been providing computer support for over twenty years so you know they’re here today and will be here tomorrow.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 if you require assistance with your computer.

Google Chrome (PWS:Win32Zbot) treated as a virus by Microsoft (MS) Security Essentials is a false positive

I read reports, that overnight users were having their Google Chrome browser blocked or removed from their computer by Microsoft Security Essentials. An update to MS Security Essential incorrectly treated the Chrome browser as a virus. You can read more from the Microsoft site here.

I don’t have Google Chrome installed on my computer so I didn’t experience the issue.

I would suggest forcing an update of Microsoft Security Essentials as soon as you start your computer. I’ve verified the update the fixes this issue will be installed.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 if you need assistance with your computers.

 

Best antivirus. Virus removal. Antivir, Virus scanner

A fairly common problem I get calls for is the removal of malware from a computer. I ask people how they received the virus and in a lot of cases they don’t know. In the past I found the infection was an email attachment, but more recently the infection has not been associated with an email.

One customer was tricked into thinking their computer was infected when a pop-up message appeared as they were browsing the internet. They went ahead and paid their money to have the problem removed, which in turn actually infected their computer and provided the scammer with their credit card details. Pretty scary stuff really.

I thought I’d share this article which shows that around 85% of infections are now caused when browsing and of the 85% just five programs result in 99.98% of infections. If the information is correct it means all people need to do is keep five programs up-to-date and that could significantly reduce their chances of being infected. Unfortunately whilst that sounds logical it isn’t. This will help with malware which isn’t new, but new malware will find exploits in programs which have not yet been patched so people are still exposed. The lesson here however is keep the programs updated if they’re installed on your computer.

The programs are:  Java JRE, Adobe Reader/Acrobat, Adobe Flash, MS Internet Explorer, Windows HCP (Help) and Apple Quicktime. The first three account for 85% of abuses by malware. Interestingly Internet Explorer is only 10%. Just applying the updates for five software packages when they are ready may reduce your chances of being infected considerably.

For clients how want to feel more protected, I provide a disk which is based on software made available to American soldiers. The software allows you to boot your computer from the disk and protects your computer from being infected. This is a great option for those who are worried their computer may be infected but still want to do their online banking or pay bills. Great for those who are travelling and would like to connect to the internet on a family member or friend’s computer, but are concerned that it may be infected. Great if you want your children to be able to use the computer but not risk infecting it. Great if you want staff to use a work computer and not risk infecting it. If clients need a disk contact me. There is a small distribution fee of $9.95 plus postage if required.

It now makes more sense why people don’t know how they infected their computer. The flaws in unpatched software enable people to infect their computer just by visiting a site on the internet. It has happened to me. I once searched using Google, went to a site, and the site infected the computer using a vulnerability in Internet Explorer SP1. That vulnerability was patched in Internet Explorer SP2.

What is also interesting is a lot of people push alternate browsers in the belief they somehow provide a greater level of protection. From the article this doesn’t appear to be the case. Based on the percentage use people using browsers to the percentage being infected, it appears to be fairly consistent across the browsers. The other browsers will most likely be exposed to the same issues because they use the same applications. You shouldn’t necessarily think that changing your browser will give you any greater level of protection. You’re most likely better off making sure your software is kept as up-to-date as possible.

Another more drastic approach might be to also disable or even remove the programs giving you the greatest exposure. I wouldn’t like to suggest that because of lost functionality. That would have to be a choice each person makes for themselves. For example I don’t have Java JRE installed on my computer and haven’t noticed any issues for a long time. When it was installed I did notice quite a few infections in the cache which was a concern. Doing without Acrobat Reader would be hard and a lot of sites still use Flash. Both Flash and Adobe Reader can be fairly easily disabled until you need them, so that is an approach which could be used.

Whether we like it or not, when we are on the internet there are a lot of people who have a lot to gain by infecting our computers. We need to make decisions and take action which minimises our risk to an acceptable level.

If you’ve infected your computer and live within 10kms of the Doncaster/Templestowe/Eltham area and need assistance, you can contact me on 0415 910 703. As part of cleaning customers’ computers I also install free antivirus software which I’ve tested for over a week that has shown to be better than other common free software and also the commercial software I’ve tested.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

MyAnswers: Thoughts and notes on the Amazon Kindle Fire.

The following MyAnswers solution 2163 is now available:

Thoughts and notes on the Amazon Kindle Fire.

Click here to obtain the solution.

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Kelvin Eldridge
www.MyAnswers.biz
(An Online Connections service.)

Alert: Incorrectly filled tax form NAT3799 from subscribe@ato.gov.au

I’ve received a number of emails lately which have been faked to appear to be from the ATO. I’d recommend you delete these emails.

What is particularly interesting with these emails is who the emails are addressed to. When I check the To and CC fields they contain a number of my emails address that I use publicly. Not just one, but a number. That is the first time I’ve seen anyone do that. It shows whoever has the mailing list is now consolidating the email addresses. Perhaps it is an attempt to hit an entire organisation in the one go leading people to think the information may be legitimate. All it needs is one person in the organisation to think the email might be legitimate and others may be encouraged to check it out.

The email displays correctly if viewed using an Apple iPhone, but is malformed if received using Outlook. In Outlook the message appears as an attached text file and there is no body to the message. It is very obvious to Outlook users this message is a fake.

It is important that you delete suspicious emails. I read yesterday that up to 85% of malware infected computers are now caused by people visiting web sites controlled by hackers. These sites may be legitimate sites where hackers have gained access and installed code or code to redirect people to another site. The owner of the site may have no knowledge they’ve been hacked. In the past the email attachment was a major cause of infection. Now it appears the main cause has moved to people visiting web sites which uses exploits in unpatched software the user has on their machine to infect their computer.

I’d highly recommend that you don’t let curiosity get the better of you. Clicking on a link in an email you receive could end up costing you a lot in both money and inconvenience. If an email appears suspicious, it probably is.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 if you need your computer fixed because curiosity got the better of you.

Templestowe Computer Shop

Whilst fixing a problem for a new customer in Templestowe recently, he said how much easier it was to have someone come in and fix their problem with internet explorer and clean up his computers. His other alternative was to spend the time packing up the computer, taking it to a store, waiting for it to be repaired, picking up the computer and setting it up again. That was a lot of time he was able to avoid and also he wasn't without his computer.

Over the years there have been a couple of computer shops in Templestowe, but at the moment I don't recall one in the area. People often use a local computer shop for general support and computer related items and consumables.

If you're looking for a local computer shop for computer related support, please feel from to contact Online Connections on 0415 910 703.

Kelvin Eldridge
http://www.onlineconnections.com.au/

Onlne Connections Templestowe

Online Connections provides computer and information technology support to local residents and businesses in Templestowe, Templestowe Lower, Doncaster, Doncaster East, Lower Plenty, Montmorency and Eltham.

If you have a computer problem chances are Online Connections can help with over 30 years of experience.

For residents and businesses in the local area Online Connections introduces an exciting new approach to providing support services. Because support is provided in the local area there is no call out fee and there is no minimum charge. No problem is too small and now it is cost effective to have the problem fixed by a professional rather than spending hours trying to fix the problem yourself.

If you have a computer related problem, including tablets and mobile phones, give Online Connections a call on 0415 910 703.

Kelvin Eldridge
http://www.onlineconnections.com.au/

Templestowe Computer Repair business (serving Templestowe and the surrounding area)

I always find it interesting to think about the hundreds of businesses in Templestowe working from home that I simply don't know about. People search for words like Templestowe, Templestowe Vic, Templestowe Lower, Lower Templestowe, Templestowe Restaurant, Templestowe Victoria, Templestowe School, Templestowe Accommodation, Templestowe Postcode, or Templestowe Hotel, but unless someone knows you or your business name, they're not likely to find you.

It is estimated there are over 800 to 1,000 businesses in the Templestowe area with most being home based businesses. With approximately 5,000 homes in Templestowe this would indicate around one in five homes is running a business but you'd never know.
The problem is the cost to advertise is very high and in general, the return for the money invested not very good. I probably should add that by not very good I would have to say in most cases there is no return for the money spent. The aim of JustLocal is to make local advertising cost effective for small businesses.

To me the only way to make advertising cost effective is to offer a money back guarantee. If advertising doesn't work, currently the only business benefiting, is the business getting the advertising money and to me that isn't fair. If you pay money you should get something in return for your money. That's why JustLocal offers a money back guarantee.

I promote my own computer support business on JustLocal and the result has been better than every other form of advertising.

If you're looking for a cost effective way to promote your business locally, where you can't lose, consider advertising on JustLocal.

If you're in Templestowe or the surrounding area and require assistance with your computer or an internet presence, I can be contacted on 0415 910 703 or via the contact form on this site, or the Online Connections site.

Kelvin Eldridge
http://www.justlocal.com.au/
(An Online Connections service.)

Alert: Australia Post - Get your parcel No306. (do_not_reply.id.5133@auspost.com.au)

I’ve received a number of emails in the past week with the message Get your parcel. By coincidence these started arriving a day after Dodo said they’d send me a replacement Buddy Box for the one which didn’t work. One client fell for a UPS malware email because they received an email from UPS and were expecting a UPS parcel. If you’re expecting a parcel, receiving an email like this could easily trick you.

In this case the body of the email is very basic and unlikely to be from a large company like Australia Post.

Dear customer.

Your package has been returned to the Australia Post office.
Reason: The package is too large
Please find the attached document containing detailed information about delivery failure.
Read all information carefully and come to the "Australia Post" office to receive your package.

Thank you for attention.
Customer service.

Attached is a zip file (Attached_Document_AU18489.zip) which contains the file Attached_Document.exe. This file is an executable file but it has been designed to look like a Word document with a Microsoft Word icon. Since most people can’t see the file extension they could be easily tricked into thinking this is a Word document. Opening the file will not open a document, but instead run a program, most likely designed to infect your computer.

I use OzEfilter to check the emails at my mail server before receiving them into my computer and in this case OzEfilter showed me the email was sent from Canada. Just another piece of information which confirms this is most likely malware. Microsoft’s Security Essentials doesn’t show this file as malware. This is where you need to use common sense and not open files like this. Just delete them as soon as you receive them.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 if you need help with your computer
Servicing Doncaster, Templestowe, Eltham and the surrounding areas.

Alert: Re: Scan from a HP Officejet #658992

They say curiosity killed the cat, but the modern equivalent would be curiosity infected your computer.

I noticed a number of emails recently with the subject Re: Scan from a HP Officejet  #658992 or similar. These emails contain an attachment which is a zip file. The zip file I checked contained an executable HP_SCAN_Z520131___dollÔÇ«fdp.exe. The file has an icon which makes it appear to be a PDF.

There is little doubt this is malware. Microsoft’s Security Essentials is usually very good, but like all anti-virus scanning software, they are unlikely to identify recently released malware. Malware writers are most likely going to check their work against the common anti-virus products before releasing their malware, so that leaves a window of a few days where the anti-virus software won’t help curious people. In this case Microsoft’s software does not detect malware.

If you’re curious about an email you’ve received from someone you don’t know, don’t be tempted. You really will infect your computer and it is costly to repair. Please delete emails you aren’t sure about. It isn’t worth the risk or the cost to get your computer fixed.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 if you’ve infected your computer and need it fixed.
(Covering Melbourne Eastern to Northern suburbs within 10km of Templestowe)

Coles Home Insurance using Google Maps View to check properties

I recently compared home insurance and decided to obtain a quote from Coles Home Insurance. I’m comfortable with technology but the process didn’t go well because at the end it didn’t go through and I had to call their number. What I did find interesting was as part of our conversation I determined Coles Home Insurance were using Google Maps View to check out our property. Unfortunately the Google vehicle didn’t quite get to pass our place (which normally I would think is good) so all we could see was a partial view.

If you want to see which roads Google Maps covers, drag the man over the map and the roads covered will turn blue. Part of our street was missing.

As a result the insurance needed a supervisor’s approval who wouldn’t have been available until the following week. I decided to renegotiate with my current insurance company as I was put off being left in limbo and Coles Home Insurance isn’t a service I’ve had an experience of with claims. I’m happy to pay a little more knowing I was looked after previously.

A couple of tips with home insurance. Ask if they will review the premium and also consider the excess you are prepared to pay. By doing this I was able to reduce our premium by over $200. Not bad for the cost of a telephone call.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au  
Call 0415 910 703 if you need assistance with your computer, tablet or mobile device.

Taxi fare rates

A handy online tool is a calculator to determine a taxi fare in advance of needing a taxi. The Victorian government provides an online taxi fare calculator to help you estimate a fare. If you use the calculator it works out the fare based on the current time. You can modify the time in the Travel Options section.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.JustLocal.com.au
(An Online Connections service.)

Skype update now shows telephone number with a flag in front

Many programs you install have an effect on other programs which you may not be aware of or necessarily want. For example I have Skype installed. I started Skype recentlty and an automatic update was applied. I wasn't presented with any options. When I went into Internet Explorer I noticed Skype was now highlighting the telephone numbers on web pages which is something I didn't want. I don't ever recall dialling a number from a web page so to have them modified everytime they're displayed isn't something I want.

In MyAnswers solution 2162 I provide instructions on how to disable this Skype feature.

Skype isn't the only program to install unwanted software or to affect other programs installed on your computer. I regularly clean up people's computers and remove unwanted add-ins. Nearly every computer I see has a Google toolbar installed which isn't required at all for most people and just takes up space on the screen.

I've often been called out to a customer who feels they need a new computer but once I've cleaned up their computer, they're amazed at how fast it runs. If you need your computer cleaned up and live in the Templestowe, Doncaster, Eltham area I visit locals with no call out fee. For those a little further away, you should allow for the travel time involved.

Kelvin Eldridge
http://www.onlineconnections.com.au/
Call 0415 910 703 to have your computer cleaned of unwanted software and add-ins.

Telstra iPhone4 buyers may wish to wait before buying.

If you’re thinking about buying an iPhone 4 from Apple, Telstra, Optus, Vodafone, or one of the many resellers, you should now consider the Apple iPhone 5 is just around the corner. Whilst no date has been announced, the rumours tend to indicate a late October launch date. As usual there will be quite a bit of hype and perhaps a shortage of stock, but after the initial wave of purchases you can usually buy a new iPhone fairly easily.

A lot of people aren’t aware of the pending release of the new iPhone 5 so buy the iPhone 4 without realising a new model is just around the corner. Now is the time to decide whether or not is better to perhaps delay the purchase of a new iPhone.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 if you require assistance with your computer or mobile device.

Fix computer. Templestowe, Templestowe Lower, Doncaster, Doncaster East, Lower Plenty, Montmorency, Eltham

If you have the skills, fixing your own computer is the best and most cost effective option. But for those without the skill (or even just the knowledge to fix a particular issue) I can assist people and businesses in Templestowe and the surrounding areas ( Doncaster, Doncaster East, Templestowe Lower, Eltham, Lower Plenty Montmorency). I’m happy to fix the problem and share what I’m doing, so you’re able to fix your own problem should it occur again.

Many people are reluctant to call a computer support person and will take hours to try to fix the problem themselves, when the problem may be fixed in a matter of minutes. Sometimes all it takes is someone who knows what they’re doing to advise you and the problem vanishes immediately. For example one client recently had a problem with Outlook which took six minutes to repair and another Outlook problem was fixed in around fifteen minutes. Because I don’t charge a set fee, a call out fee (for locals), but only charge for the time it takes to solve the problem the cost was minimal. Some problems are difficult and take longer, but at all times you’re in control as I keep you fully informed and you can see what I’m doing. Some workshops fix problems in a matter of minutes but still charge you a hefty fixed fee because you don’t see what was done.

No longer do you have to sit on the telephone for half an hour or waiting for support. No longer do you have to have a long conversation trying to explain your problem over the telephone. No longer do you have to worry about giving someone you’ve never met remote (and may be located overseas) access to your computer. Now you can book a time and be at your place when it suits you. You get to talk and meet a local you know will be around should you have another problem.

If you need help with your computer give me a call on 0415 910 703.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Doncaster computer assistance, support and repairs.

If you live in Doncaster or your business is in Doncaster and you’re computer is giving your grief then give me a call. I live locally so I don’t charge travel fees or minimum times. So if a problem is fixed quickly (and a lot of problems are), you save a lot of money. I don’t fix problems over the telephone because it takes less time for me to drive to you than it takes for you to explain your problem to someone on the other end of a telephone. I explain what I’m doing and help you by sharing my knowledge.

With over 20 years of experience in my computer consulting and support business you know I’ll be around tomorrow when you need me.

Whether you need help with your computer, with your network, connecting to the internet, with your mobile phone or tablet, or even if you feel you need a hand to better understand your computer, I can assist.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with your computer problems.

 

Templestowe computer assistance, support and repairs

To make it easier for local businesses and residents in Templestowe to find my computer support business I've now set up a page at http://www.templestowecomputer.com/.

Over the last couple of weeks I've enjoyed helping a number of local people. One person had problem with Internet Explorer not starting up, another needed someone to set up their Telstra ADSL broadband equipment and another needed to recover their photos and files from their dead computer.

It really is enjoyable to go out and help each person with their computer problem and get them back up and working again.

If you have a computer related problem you're welcome to contact me for assistance. I'm just a phone call away and just around the corner.

Kelvin Eldridge
http://www.onlineconnections.com.au/
Call 0415 910 703 if you have a computer problem.

Pin board now added to Online Connections

When I walk into a local business I notice one thing, or should I say I generally notice one thing that is missing. A few businesses have a notice board where their customers can add their business card and that way the business helps their customers. I think that is a great idea. I also notice some businesses will help their customers by putting a few business cards on their counter. That way the business gives back to their customer that really doesn’t cost them much but generates a lot of good will.

Since I don’t have a counter or a wall for a noticeboard I can’t help my customers in this way, but I do have a web site and can provide a virtual pin board. Whilst my virtual pin board has been around for a while I decided to give it more prominence on my site. I’ve added Pin Board to the main menu and to the left side menu.

I’m happy to refer my customers to others. It is only because of them I have a business and I can support my family.

If you have a local business do think about helping your customers by helping to promote them. They’ll appreciate the help and it is good for business. If you only have a web site then consider doing what I’m doing. I do think the days where we help each other, rather than a business just providing products and services for profit, will become the norm rather than the exception.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 if you need assistance with your computer.

Nearly all comments on blogs are advertising

Every day I get comments posted on one of my blogs. What amazes me is nearly every one of them is a business either spamming or a trying to advertise themselves.

I can understand rouge businesses from overseas trying to promote themselves, but what really surprises me is the number of businesses in Australia which think it is OK to blog spam to promote their business. They wouldn’t even consider spamming people with emails, but have no issue with writing spam on other companies blogs with the only intent to use a blog comment to promote their business.

I remember being contacted by a number of businesses asking me to write a comment on their blog saying good things about them. I get computer repair businesses writing comments on my blogs which really if they’re in the business should know the answer and if they don’t, they shouldn’t be in the business.

So next time you’re reading comments on a blog whether they be glowing praise or something else, put on your doubting Thomas hat. Most of it could be self promotion or blog spam. Either way it doesn’t help you make a better decision.

My policy with my blogs is review each comment and only release comments which are legitimate. I will write praise on other blogs and leave a thank you with specific information (not “this is a fantastic blog” like spammers do) showing my appreciation.

I’d suggest if you have or are thinking of setting up a blog that you don’t automatically release comments. Most comments will be spam promoting other businesses and that doesn’t help your clients. Make the extra effort, your clients will appreciate it.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.JustLocal.com.au
(An Online Connections service.)

Local search using Google Custom Search no longer available from JustLocal pages

As part of a trial I added a local search feature to JustLocal where locals could search for products and services from local businesses. This isn’t required for JustLocal as JustLocal provides single click access from a postcode page to the site of the business.

The feature used the Google Custom Search but unfortunately I’ve found this service isn’t reliable enough and the results provided were inadequate, often not providing a business even though the business provided the product or service. I also found issues when adding sites.

I’ve decided rather than to continue to provide a search feature which I don’t feel is up to standard to remove the search option from JustLocal.

The aim of JustLocal is to provide a portal to quickly access the sites of local businesses. By doing this we promote the site of the local business, and the consumer or business using JustLocal to find products and services, obtains the latest information by going direct to the site of the business.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.JustLocal.com.au
(An Online Connections service.)

Would you like the preferred Australian English spelling to be available for Microsoft Office?

If you’d like the preferred Australian English spelling to be made available as a spellcheck dictionary for Microsoft Office please make the effort to add your voice.

I’m currently in contact with Microsoft and to their credit, they are taking my request for assistance to make my work available with Microsoft Office and passing the request through their channels.

For Microsoft right now I’m a lone voice with a request. If you’d like my work to be available with Microsoft Office please help by adding your voice by making a comment on this blog post. I’ve tried this on a number of occasions over the last five years so this will be the last attempt at making the preferred Australian English spelling available to Australian Microsoft users. It is now or never so please make your voice heard.

Thank you in advance for your support.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

 

Alert: You have 1 lost message on Facebook...

I received this message and because I don't use Facebook immediately knew it was a fake.

If you check the destination for the link you'll see it isn't a Facebook site. If you clicked on the link you'd go to a site which is supposedly Canadian which sells pharmaceuticals.

You should immediately delete this type of email and not use the site it links to.


Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Having computer problems contact Online Connections

Solar feed-in tariff rate cut from 60 cents per kilowatt hour to 25 cents

Following on from the reduction of the government grant for those installing solar panels the feed-in tariff is now being cut.

The solar feed-in tariff rate has been cut from 60 cents per kilowatt hour to 25 cents.... Read More

If you are considering installing solar panels make sure you do your sums. That article states: Victorian Energy Minister Michael O'Brien said that under the 25-cent rate participants would recover the cost of their solar power systems within about 10 years.

Based on the feedback in the local newspaper with the average saving of around $200 per year with the higher feed-in tariff plus the larger government grant it may be that people may never end up recovering the cost of their solar panels.

One way you may be able to recover the costs of your system is if you also reduce your energy consumption. By using a power meter plus the Energy Cost Calculator we’ve reduce our electricity usage to under 8kWh’s per day, which is well under the average of around 18kWh’s per day. It is important to minimise the base load because if you’re base load is greater than the energy produced you’ll not receive any feed-in tariff.

When you install a solar system the problem is you’ll go onto a peak/off-peak charging structure which increases your electricity bill and the 25 cent feed-in tariff is now less than you’ll pay for peak electricity usage.

Whilst this change won’t be liked by those considering a solar panel system, it does hopefully mean we all benefit (including those with solar panel systems) as it reduces the cost of electricity for everyone going up to pay for those installing solar systems.

- Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910 703 for help with computer problems

MyAnswers: CA parental control blocks the internet after CA Internet Security removed.

The following MyAnswers solution 2156 is now available:

CA parental control blocks the internet after CA Internet Security removed.

Click here to obtain the solution.

Click here for related solutions.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.MyAnswers.biz
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Call 0415 910703 if you need assistance with your computers.

Alert: Blog comment by Majid Ali

To share with others typical blog spam I see on my blog I thought I'd write about the comment left by supposedly Majid Ali.

Majid Ali made the request in the blog comment Please help me by reading my appeal on my profile.

When I received this comment on my blog I decided to check the profile. According to the profile Majid is from Haiti and this appears to be an appeal to raise money by appealing to the better nature of people. Over 8,000 people had viewed the profile which is a massive number.

On checking my logs I found no one from Haiti had visited my site. Visitors for the day had come from: United Kingdom, United States, Australia, Turkey and Pakistan.

I just rechecked the link for the profile and the profile is no longer available, which possibly means the blog has been removed.

It is almost certain this is nothing more than a scam. With over 8,000 views of the profile this really was massive scam with spam sent to ten’s if not hundreds of thousands of blogs. A search of Google for the term Please help me by reading my appeal on my profile shows it appears over 2,000 times meaning it went public on thousands of blogs.

If you are reading blog comments be aware that many of the comments are fake, may be scams and you should not assume just because the comment was added to the blog it has been checked. Over 90% of comments I receive on my blogs are spam or scams. I don’t release comments without reviewing them and I suggest others with blogs do the same. Most comments I’ve found are attempts at advertising.

If you decide to use a blog to promote your business I’d recommend you don’t release comments automatically, otherwise you’ll allow scammers to use your site to ensnare unsuspecting victims who could be your family, friends or customers.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Need help with your internet presence contact Online Connections.

Alert: Important information from the Nokia Developer website team

I received an email with the subject Important information from the Nokia Developer website team on the Monday and have subsequently read a news item. It does appear a Nokia site has been hacked. Nokia was quick off the mark letting its users know which is good.

What did concern me was the links in the email weren’t from Nokia but from a marketing group. Given that anyone with the mailing list could now send fake emails on behalf of Nokia I think companies using third parties to send emails out on their behalf should reconsider using third party organisations in this situation.

The bottom line is if you have registered with Nokia as a developer to use their forum you should now treat emails with greater caution.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.OnlineConnections.com.au
Contact Online Connections for assistance with your computers.

MyAnswers: Office365/Office 365 gets the thumbs down.

The following MyAnswers solution 2155 is now available:

Office365/Office 365 gets the thumbs down.

I initially started the review of Office 365 with the aim of seeing whether or not I could recommend it to my clients and new clients. My focus is on micro and small business so I'm always looking for tools and services which can help those businesses. I hope others find the information useful.

Click here to obtain the solution.

Click here for related solutions.

Kelvin Eldridge
www.MyAnswers.biz
www.OnlineConnections.com.au

Does open source create a leech like mentality and hurt those working in the computer industry?

There is no doubt that obtaining free software is a bonus for people, but what if you’re the one putting in your energy to improve the software. As the builder of the Australian English dictionary I put in hundreds of hours only to find almost no return for my efforts. I tried all the usual ways to raise money from a distribution fee, a donation link, or thinking that perhaps people would use my professional services once they knew my work, but in the end, there is probably over a million people using my work and almost nothing to show for it.

Now don’t get me wrong. I’m not complaining. I put myself into that position. I naively believed that if you give to others then others will give to you. One person from the Ubuntu project was happy to pay $9.95 distribution fee so he could include my work into Ubuntu. He believed there were 20 million users and that I would benefit. I saw no traffic to my site or any business from Ubuntu users. The Firefox project took my work and gave nothing back. Google included my work in their Google Chrome project. A link from Google would have been worth its weight in gold, but instead any reference back to my work was buried deep inside the project. Every project took what they wanted and gave nothing back.

For me the saddest aspect is I did exactly the same. I took the work of the UK dictionary project at the advice of the OpenOffice.org project lead and used the from the OpenOffice.org project never once thinking about the people who put the work into the UK dictionary. I then gutted the dictionary from 120,000 words to 70,000 and built a better Australian dictionary for my clients (at my cost) and then made the work available to Australian users. It was later when I realised what I’d done that I wrote to the developers offering to help them if I could in some way.

Firefox was the worst for me because my work was converted to a different licence against my wishes. Google was a disappointment because I asked that they add the ability to select Australian English so I could make my work available, but in doing so they then just incorporated my work.

The problem I see with open source is it takes from one group of people to give to another. It doesn’t support those who are contributing. Until open source projects do, they will continue to churn through the people it uses which is not a good long term strategy. This approach means there will be a constant brain drain of the people contributing. People will come and go because in the end they are not rewarded. With commercial software those who contribute get paid which helps the project grow and those who are contributing to also grow.

I hope that by sharing this experience others working in the computing industry will see my contributing to open source as an example to follow thinking they’ll benefit. I haven’t. I’ve consumed a very large amount of time with no return on the time invested. I hope that by being open if one other person makes a better decision than I have, that will be a good outcome.

Kelvin Eldridge

www.OnlineConnections.com.au