Jun 13, 2017 | internet, News
Okay, we all know a Facebook posts can get you fired. Also, a compromising Facebook post can earn you a divorce or break-up. But in Pakistan, it earned one man something far more serious. A Pakistan man gets death sentence over Facebook.
So 30-year-old?Taimoor Raza is guilty of blasphemy. He got into a religious debate on Facebook with someone. But that someone turned out to be an undercover cop. The cop arrested him for blasphemy. This is part of Pakistan’s crackdown on social media freedoms. Because 15 others faced charges for this last year. There are also crackdowns on social media posts against the Pakistan government and military. Unfortunately, this is the new normal over there. Because last year, they passed the?Prevention of Electronic Crime Act.
Don’t think other people don’t notice. There is already an outcry about such human rights abuses. And it’s not just in Pakistan. This concerns much of the world. However, the Pakistan government shows no remorse. They still urge citizens to turn in others when they post ‘blasphemous’ things on Twitter and Facebook. However, Raza’s situation is nothing compared to what others are getting. Some people are being mobbed to death over such ‘blasphemous speech’.
So one question is, “What’s causing such extreme human rights abuse?” Is it all the Pakistani government? Or is that government giving the majority of the people what they want? One way or another, they need to break this cycle. It’s bad enough somebody loses their job over a Facebook post. That’s not right. But a Pakistan man gets death sentence? This is an assault on freedom of expression all over the world. Those of us in IT service in any capacity, whether it’s a computer repair technician to Microsoft CEO should be concerned. I say this because if they use social media to execute people for blasphemy, how far will they go? And social media is a beacon of free speech. But they use it as a way to silence it. Should this not concern us?
Jun 12, 2017 | Malware, Security
For years, we learned that clicking on certain links can cause malware. But yet, the hackers often seem to one up the good guys. Because it looks like they did it again. Can your mouse cause malware? Maybe.
So according to some cyber security leaders, cyber crooks discovered something evil. That evil is a Trojan malware that they can put on your computer. Furthermore, you don’t have to click a thing. All you do is point your arrow at at or around the hyperlink. Then, the PowerPoint hyperlink does the rest. This kind of malware isn’t coming. It’s already here.
Can your mouse cause malware? Maybe. Because it’s already happening overseas. They used it in a span campaign, mostly about finances. For instance, they saw hashtags like #invoice and #order. That gets the readers’ curiosity. Then, they attach it to a fake PowerPoint presentation. Furthermore, it says, “Loading…please wait”. But by the time you wait, the malware takes over. Before too long, the malware infects your PC.
But there is good news, especially if you use newer Microsoft Office. Most of us use it here in our Boston computer service shop. That’s because they have Protected View. What this does is warn you about ‘potential security concerns’. All you have to do is click ‘disable’. There’s also another way. I got hit by a sudden malware attack. I just restarted my computer and it was fine. We can’t stress this enough. If you’re hacked, and they tell you to call Microsoft, don’t do it! That’s a way to get your information, your money and goodness knows what else. Also, don’t hesitate to call us at Geek Choice. Our computer repair experts are here to serve and protect you from these malware evils. I’m here reporting on such evils to keep you safe. Can your mouse cause malware? I’m afraid it’s coming to that.
Jun 10, 2017 | News
So it seems former FBI Director James Comey isn’t the only one in the hot seat. Because lawmakers want to know how Americans got tapped ?just to get to foreigners. Also, Trump’s people said something interesting. So the NSA spied on how many Americans?
So there’s a change that could take place at the end of 2017. That law could allow the NSA access to major espionage. And Dan Coates, a top US intelligence official Trump hand picked, is making some interesting statements. One is, “The NSA made Herculean, extensive efforts to devise a counting strategy that would be accurate”. He’s talking about how to count how many Americans the NSA spies on. Coates also says he doesn’t and wouldn’t know how many Americans fell prey to this. And it wouldn’t even matter how many resources they would use to find out.
As you can imagine, this concerns privacy rights advocates. Democrats aren’t letting up either. Because top Democrat John Conyers said they promised numbers for months. Furthermore, the Trump/Russian controversy may play a part in this. Some Republicans, who support tight surveillance, are now easing up because of this potential scandal. Some say Russia and Trump’s campaign used surveillance to help Trump win the election. Both Putin and Trump vehemently deny this.
So the NSA spied on how many Americans? I want to know. No, me and my fellow Americans deserve to know. When somebody uses IT services and surveillance technology to spy on innocent Americans, we need to know. I’m not here to promote any political party or side. But we need the truth. And the fact the Trump administration is spinning this because of a scandal: That’s alarming. And are Democrats really seeking the truth to fight for liberty? Or are they using this for their own political gain? So I ask again: The NSA spied on how many Americans?
Jun 9, 2017 | News
The vote is almost unanimous. Yahoo leaders approved the sale of their company to Verizon for around ?$4 billion. I say that because Verizon’s price for Yahoo dropped by several hundred million. The Verizon/Yahoo Merger almost complete…At a cost.
So what is that cost? That cost is jobs. Because Verizon had to lay off 2,100 more people just to seal this deal. Furthermore, this just adds to the number of jobs Yahoo lost over the last five years. So Yahoo’s work force is 8,600. Sounds like a lot, doesn’t it? Not really. During Marissa Meyer’s reign as Yahoo CEO, they lost almost half their work force. So I guess what’s another 2,100 (I know that sounds bad!)?
But Yahoo may already have something to celebrate. Their stock prices shares went up 10%. But at what cost? Are you aware that the 2,100 layoffs make up for 15% of all Verizon employees? Now that’s a huge piece of their work force. Of course, no company dares says a word of these layoffs. But Yahoo, and Verizon’s other purchase, AOL, are in trouble. Verizon isn’t doing so hot either. Yahoo and Verizon struggle to compute on the same level as Facebook and Google. Also, year after year, Verizon ranks as one of the most hated companies in America.
It’s a real shame. Especially for Yahoo. In the 1990s, Yahoo lead the Internet revolution. For those of you born after 2000, imagine surfing the Internet in the 1990s. Google wasn’t the first search engine site we used. It was Yahoo. Now, Verizon seems to be Yahoo’s only lifeline for survival. It’s amazing how IT support changes over the years, and even the premier companies of yesteryear can eventually flounder. So yes, we can declare the Verizon/Yahoo merger almost complete. But is the cost of jobs worth it? Over the past few years, neither company had that good of a reputation. So will Verizon save Yahoo? Can it? Or will both companies sink? And is this merger worth all these jobs being lost?
Jun 8, 2017 | Security, Smartphone
Let’s talk about texting while driving. It is almost as destructive as drinking and driving. I say this because the statistics are alarming. Apple might have a solution. Texting and driving: Can your iPhone stop it?
So they call it ‘Do Not Disturb While Driving’. Let’s say before you start driving, your iPhone connects to your car through cable or Bluetooth. Now you’re on the road. This ‘Do Not Disturb While Driving’ setting puts the breaks on texts, emails, and other notifications. That way, they can’t even tempt you into distraction. It will be available fall 2017. Also, it will come out alongside the iOS 11 software.
Furthermore, you can send replies to people while you’re driving. You keep your eyes on the road and hand on the wheel, because this app will let people know for you. However, drivers can still use the Apple Map systems. But just make sure you program your directions before you turn on the ignition. Because once you hit the road, you won’t even be able to program that. This app is serious about stopping texting and driving. Advocates like Joel Feldman, leader of End Distracted Driving, praises Apple’s move. So do many others on Twitter and other aspects of social media.
And frankly, so do I. In computer repair, we tell our techs all the time. No text, no instant message, no email is worth dying over. It can wait until you get to your destination. That’s not just true in computer servicing, but in every other faction in the world. Apple did put on the this product. I’m very thankful for that. But it’s up to the people to get this app. If you have an Apple product, please get the iOS 11 software and get this setting. It could save your life and/or someone else’s. Texting and driving kills. Shouldn’t Google/Android have a ‘Do Not Disturb While Driving’ like app?
Jun 7, 2017 | General, Smartphone
This decade, Uber causes a revolution in ride share and the way people go to and from. But there are setbacks. There are complaints of discrimination, harassment, even crime. Therefore, Uber cleans house: starts with twenty firings.
All 20 lost their jobs because of harassment complaints. Also, they hired two executives to redo strategies. But it’s not just angry customers writing letters. It’s much bigger. Even former Attorney General Eric Holder is helping out. This started with former employee Susan Fowler blogged about sexual harassment at Uber. Then, several Uber execs quit. Not even CEO Travis Kalanick is immune. A video caught him arguing with an Uber driver.
But it’s not just the twenty firings. Because 31 more are in counseling over harassment. But it’s not because they want to be. And yes, Kalanick is also taking steps as Uber cleans house. He got his top software engineer to resign. This was because of a sexual harassment claim against him at Google, his last workplace. Since then, Uber hired two women executives. One of them is also their highest ranking African-American executive. Her name is Bozoma Saint John. She praises these changes, but says more needs to be done.
I think Saint John is right. Uber grew so fast. Their focus was on ?growing the business and grow profits and revenue. There is nothing wrong with that. In fact, that was every business should be doing, especially every IT service business. But I think in doing that, they slightly neglected the workplace culture. It can happen to the best of us. We get so caught up in the money and profits. We sometimes forget to think about who we’re bringing in and who could be getting hurt. If we create an, “Anything goes as long as we’re getting money…” culture, the result will probably be a culture of harassment, bullying and discrimination. ?I don’t say this is Uber’s fault. For the record, I am a huge fan of Uber. But that’s just human nature. I commend Uber for cleaning house. Is this a lesson for us all?
Jun 6, 2017 | Computer technology, Software
I called it. The Apple World Wide Developers Conference (WWDC) is happening this week. Now I say this because they display the highly anticipated new iPad Pro. Here is introducing the 10.5 inch iPad Pro and iOS 11.
The 10.5 inch iPad Pro will be available June 13. Also, this one gives you 64 GB of space. But it will cost you extra: $649. However, you get a various choice of colors, like silver, space grey, and rose gold. People brag about this screen, but it’s the keyboard that takes everyone’s breath away. That’s because the 10.5 inch comes with a full size keyboard. That’s right. It should be just as easy to type it this iPad pro as it is with a laptop!
Then there’s the iOS 11 software, which makes just as big as an impression. So the first thing that got me was the Siri, and the new things Siri can do. Siri now comes in a man and a woman’s voice. However, is English not your major tongue? Or are you trying to learn another language? Siri can help. Because Siri translates English to Spanish, Chinese, German, and a few others. Apple Maps stepped up their game as well. They now have maps to guide you through airports, shopping malls, and other indoor facilities. That’s just introducing the 10.5 inch iPad Pro and iOS 11.
So why cover this? Well, in my Boston computer service shop, we have quite a few Apple customers. And some of them are loyal Apple customers. In fact, one of them keeps up with the WWDC conference like we used to keep up with daytime soap operas. And so far, they seem to be on a great start. People inquired about the 10.5 inch iPad Pro. And they delivered. They’re really delivering with this keyboard. Some experts say this doesn’t replace the laptop, but I don’t know. It very well could. It’s about time they made Siri more human. Also, Siri provides a great way to learn language. I’m not sure about the indoor maps yet, but I’m sure someone will need them. What do you think of the conference so far?
Jun 5, 2017 | News, Smartphone
Years 2014, 2015 and 2016 saw more refugees and displaced people than any year since World War Two. Some lost everything due to war and conflict, like the war in Syria. But others lost everything to natural disasters. One Silicon Valley leader vows to help. Introducing the Refugee Aid App, and services.
Her name is Shelly Taylor. She’s been working in Silicon Valley since 1995. She advised companies like Yahoo and America Online during the dawn of the Internet. Yahoo could probably use Taylor’s advising now. But let’s get back to the Refugee Aid App. This app connects refugees with charities and other groups. Then these groups help the displaced get the emergency services.
Taylor and company started this app in February 2016. But now, over 400 charities use it to get refugees food, medical supplies, shelter, etc. Through this, these charities communicate with each other and the migrants they’re helping. Obviously, this is a free app. For now, the app is mostly in Europe, where millions of migrants continue to pour in. Also, Taylor’s app makes history. Because it’s the first app to give total coordination between charities and migrants. The Refugee Aid App lets the migrants know where the nearest services are. They even provide free legal aid for migrants.
It’s always awesome when somebody from IT support does something to help the world. I know there is a lot of political upheaval surrounding the refugee debate. But let’s take politics out of it. People are suffering out there. Innocent people are losing everything they held dear. Their only crime is being at the wrong place at the wrong time. Thank goodness for people like Shelly Taylor, who are using technology for good. We often hear people use technology for evil purposes, from hacking to sextortion. I even covered them myself. But it’s wonderful that someone in Silicon Valley uses technology to change the world, and even save lives. What are some ways in your life people use technology for good?
Jun 4, 2017 | News
So you want to know all things Apple. Well, we’re approaching your favorite time of year. It’s time for Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference 2017. Let’s see what they have to offer.
The conference will start Monday, June 5 in San Jose, California. Furthermore, The Verge will cover it. So one thing we can expect is them covering software: iOS, macOS, tvOS, and watchOS. We can also expect them to update their iOS 11. They might introduce their OLED phone. This ‘dark mode’ could save battery life by turning pixels off. Then there are the iPad features, especially with the iPad Pro. There’s a lot of talk about their new ‘drag and drop’ system.
So now, let’s talk hardware. We all know how popular voice technology is, like Amazon Echo and Google Home. We can expect Apple’s Siri to have the main event. But nobody really knows what plans Apple has for Siri. But many expect a better virtual surround sound. Siri should play a big part in HomeKit, that’s Apple’s home smart system. However, I hope you’re not a fan of MacBook Air. I say that because their under $1,000 will probably have no update. In fact, it looks like they are going to let the MacBook Air die out.
That is a shame. Because let’s face it, Apple’s products aren’t exactly cost friendly. And now they’re just going to let this one go. Here in our Boston computer service shop, we treated some MacBook Air laptops. But I want to see what they do with Siri. Competition in the voice command area is fierce. Apple needs to bring their A game in this area. Well, Apple needs to bring their A game in all areas. As we can expect, there will be some surprises. What do you think of Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference 2017? What would you like to see discussed?
Jun 2, 2017 | News
Yesterday, President Donald Trump pulled America out of the Paris climate accord. Many believe this will weaken America’s fight against climate change. Also, many believe this will isolate us from the rest of the world. But this may isolate Silicon Valley, too. Because Silicon Valley blasts Trump on Climate change.
Even before the meeting, Silicon Valley leaders wrote a letter. They urged Trump to stay in the Paris Agreement. Companies who signed this letter included Apple, Facebook, Google/Android, and Microsoft, and dozens more tech giants. Then Elon Musk and Tim Cook tried to reach out to the White House. So when Trump pulled America out of the Paris Agreement, Silicon Valley blasts Trump on climate change.
The results came in fast and furious. Marc Benioff, CEO of Salesforce, tweeted disappointment in Trump’s decision. He vowed to increase efforts to fight climate change. So did Google leader Sundar Pichai. He tweeted Google will keep fighting for a cleaner future. But the longer and most colorful backlash came from Facebook’s Mark Zuckerbug and Twitter’s Jack Dorsey. Dorsey called it a ‘shortsighted move’. Zuckerberg said this move put our children at risk. He also said fighting climate change is a global community effort. In fact, I haven’t heard one Silicon Valley leader who supported President Trump’s decision to leave the Paris agreement.
Computer repair and IT support and politics really are going hand in hand. Most of Silicon Valley leaders were weary of Trump from the very beginning. But after his election, they were going to work out their differences. And for a while, I had hope the White House and Silicon Valley could get along. But now, those hopes are dwindling. The sides are drifting apart again. That’s what worries me about this decision. It’s not the climate change, but it’s the global tensions that it could cause. The last thing we need is me against the world. Don’t we already have enough of that?
