Some iPhone Text Message Tips

Text messaging has evolved a lot since the first message was sent in December 1992.

United States mobile users sent around 2 trillion text messages in 2021, according to the website Statista. This is a significant increase from the 81 billion sent in 2005.

Decades of texting have seen emoticons made from colon and parenthesis replaced by more obvious and emotive emojis. Now, typos can be edited or entire messages unsent, and you can respond to a message without typing anything.

It's also not uncommon to meet someone who prefers to communicate via text instead of phone or email. But there is so much more to these digital interactions than just sending some text.

How to add effects on iMessage

iMessage has built-in effects that can add some extra pizazz when messaging between Apple devices. To find these effects, press and hold the blue arrow that sends the message. Then the options appear. Effects include: Balloons, Confetti, Lasers, Echo, and Invisible ink.

Either the blue bubble or the entire screen will be animated depending on the effect you choose. Animations appear automatically when sending a message that says “Happy birthday,” “Congratulations” or “Happy New Year.”

How to react or reply to a text?

Whether you’re in a group text or carrying on multiple conversations in one message, things can get confusing. Android and Apple devices allow users to reply to a specific message. This creates a thread and attaches the related conversations to one another, making it much easier to follow the conversations.

To reply on Apple or Android devices, double-tap or long press on the message and the ‘reply’ option should appear. Type your message, then hit send. This only works when you’re messaging from one Apple device to another Apple device or from an Android to another Android.

If you’d rather reply without words, ‘reacting’ to a message is the way to go. To react to a message, double-tap or long-press the message and select the preferred option.

How do I edit an iMessage?

To edit a text message: Hard press on the message bubble you want to edit; Tap ‘edit’; Make the changes you want; Press the check mark to save the changes.

Edits can only be made within 15 minutes of sending the message. Unsending a message is very similar to editing one, but this can only be done within two minutes of sending. 

To unsend a message: Hard press on the message bubble; Select “unsend” from the dropdown menu. However, this feature only works if both devices are opening on iOS16 or higher.

Credit: usatoday.com

Executive Board Minutes

Computer Technology Club, Inc.
Executive Board Minutes
April 14, 2023

Alan Marcus, President, called the meeting to order at 9:00AM. Members in attendance: Jim Trimboli, Bob Kenlay, Linda Tingley, Don Forgette, Mike Metelits, Bob Leiner and Alan Marcus.

The Secretary’s report was read by Bob Kenlay. No corrections or additions necessary.

Jim Trimboli then read the Treasurer's report. The current balance is $1,348.85.

Bob Kenlay noted that our March motion would continue the 10 - $10 Gift Cards until the end of the year. We also agreed to continue to distribute all the 50/50 proceeds.

The position to discontinue the summer meetings was rerevsed. We will have summer meetings. It was also agreed to continue membership fees.

Future meeting topics:

Apr 19 - Streaming TV basics

May 17 - Select an Internet Provider That Meets Your Needs

Jun 21 - Hacking, is There a Solution?

The meeting adjourned at 9:55AM.

Respectfully submitted,
Bob Kenlay, Secretary

Unlock Your iPhone With A Security Key

Apple Bytes: 

Apple continues to tighten iOS security, and iOS 16.3 (and iPadOS 16.3, and macOS Ventura 13.2) includes support for physical security keys. In other words, a physical device can verify your Apple ID login in place of a passcode. It’s a great way to boost your security.

These keys work in tandem with two-factor authentication (2FA), so you still need your password. If you already have 2FA set up on your account, you’re familiar with logging into a new Apple device using your email address and password and then having a six-digit code sent via SMS or to another device (like an iPhone or a Mac) that you're already logged in on. The security key replaces that second step, the passcode.

The thinking is that having something physical that stays with you is more secure than a passcode, which can be guessed, brute-forced, or viewed over your shoulder. Apple says the security key provides “extra protection from targeted attacks, such as phishing or social engineering scams.” While a scam website or app might trick you into revealing a six-digit number, getting you to hand over a physical object is much harder.

If you want to start using security keys with your Apple ID, you first need to have 2FA switched on for your account. If you haven’t already enabled it, open Settings on your iPhone, then tap your name at the top, followed by Password & Security and Turn On Two-Factor Authentication. Follow the instructions for setting up a phone number to receive SMS messages, and specify any other trusted devices you want to use it with.

How Security Keys Work

Generally speaking, 2FA comes into play when you log in on a new device or on a device you haven’t used for a long time, this isn’t a process you need to do every time you open your Mac or unlock your iPhone, as they’ll be designated as trusted devices. 2FA adds an extra step to the login process, in addition to a username and password, because those details can be guessed, tricked out of you, or leaked on the web.

Once you set up security keys, they become the extra step. They either plug directly into a lightning or USB port on your device, or (on iPhones only) they can communicate wirelessly via the NFC protocol. They essentially prove that you are who you say you are, giving you access to your Apple ID and all of your apps and services.

It’s important to note that you don’t want to lose your security key. Apple will prompt you to set up two to begin with, so you can keep a backup in a safe place. But if you do somehow misplace both of them, there’s a chance you might be permanently locked out of your account (there may be recovery options, but Apple isn’t specifying what they are, perhaps for security reasons).

You also need to follow this process when logging in to your Apple ID in a new web browser, and there are a few places where it won’t work (at least not yet). Perhaps the most important one is iCloud for Windows, so you might want to hold off if you use your Apple account on Windows devices. And you can’t use security keys with Apple devices running older software or with Apple IDs assigned to children.

Setting Up Security Keys

The first step is buying a couple of security keys, which go for around $50 each online. Apple says you need keys certified to work with the FIDO (Fast ID Online) standard, and with the right connections for your devices: NFC (iPhones) only, lightning, USB-C, or USB-A. It’s fine to use adapter dongles and cables with these security keys, which should make it easier to find keys that work across everything you’re going to use.

With your physical keys in hand and the latest software updates installed, you can set everything up from an iPhone or an iPad by going to Settings, tapping on your name at the top, and choosing Password & Security. Choose Add Security Keys to be directed through the process of associating them with your Apple ID. At the same time, you can review all the devices that are currently linked to your Apple ID.

On macOS, make sure you’re running the latest software, then open the Apple menu and choose System Settings. Click on your name at the top of the navigation pane on the left, then pick Password & Security and click Add next to the Security Keys heading. You’ll then be taken through the steps needed to associate your keys with your account, and you’ll be shown the devices you’re already using with your Apple ID.

You need to add at least two security keys to your account, as we mentioned earlier, and you can add up to six. Head to the same screens on iOS, iPadOS, or macOS if you want to delete one or more of your security keys, you’ll see a Remove All Security Keys option. If you select this, the two-factor authentication process will revert to using the passcode method, as it did before.

Credit: wired.com

Ram's Electric Pickup Will Go The Distance . . .

. . . With Gasoline!

The Ram 1500 REV electric pickup is still a long way from going on sale at the end of next year, but now we know how it will be able to cover long distances. Ram ran a Super Bowl LVII advertisement that comically pitched it as a solution for "premature electrification" that will feature "options being designed to extend range in satisfying ways."

Further details were not included in the ad, but Carlos Tavares, CEO of Ram's parent brand Stellantis, offered more information to Fox News Digital during a media event in New York City on 2-28-23. Ram's sister brand Jeep currently offers several plug-in hybrid models that offer short all-electric driving ranges, 21–26 miles, and then operate as conventional hybrids when the battery is drained, but the 1500 REV will work differently.

According to Tavares, the 1500 REV will be a true range-extended electric vehicle, that uses the internal combustion engine (ICE) primarily as a generator that kicks in when the charge is low, not to drive the wheels directly. "An extender is charging the battery, by nature, that's how it works. You are in electric power mode and you charge the battery with your ICE engine revving at a constant speed," he said.

It is similar to how a diesel-electric locomotive works, as well as the discontinued Chevrolet Volt and BMW i3 REx. The ICE operates at its most efficient speed all the time rather than always reacting to the accelerator. The set-up allows for quick gas fill-ups instead of long charging sessions that can take an hour or more to fully replenish the battery. This is especially important when towing, which can significantly reduce the range of an electric vehicle.

During a test of an electric Ford F-150 Lightning Platinum, which had an EPA rated range of 300 miles and an 8,500-pound towing capacity, Motor Trend was only able to cover 115 miles with a 3,140-pound camper attached and 90 miles with a 7,218-pound camper. Tavares did not say what type of ICE the truck will have or how much range the battery will provide in this model, but that it will be available alongside the fully-electric versions.

"The U.S. market is quite different between the coastal areas and the inland," Tavares said, adding that he expects the electric 1500 REV to appeal to coastal customers who are more concerned about making an environmental statement while the range-extended version is targeted more at middle America, where it will better suit how pickups are used there.

Credit: foxnews.com

Executive Board Minutes

Computer Technology Club, Inc.
Executive Board Minutes
March 10, 2023

Alan Marcus, President, called the meeting to order at 9:00AM. Members in attendance: Jim Trimboli, Bob Kenlay, Linda Tingley, Don Forgette, Mike Metelits, Bill Balch and Alan Marcus.

The Secretary’s report was read by Bob Kenlay. No corrections or additions necessary.

Jim Trimboli then read the current Treasurer's report. The current balance is $1448.85.

Jim Trimboli made a motion to run a fund raiser for members once per quarter. Mike Metelits seconded the motion, the motion failed.

Bob Kenlay made a motion to have ten $10 Gift Cards at the next meeting. Linda Tingley seconded the motion, the motion passed.

Past membership: 2019 - 132 members; 2022 - 100 members; 2023 - 45 members.

Bill Balch made a motion that we will suspend the summer membership meetings (June, July, August) and restart the meetings in September. Linda Tingley seconded the motion, the motion passed.

Future meeting topics:

Mar 15 - How to participate in a Zoom meeting

Apr 19 - Streaming TV basics

The meeting adjourned at 9:55AM.

Respectfully submitted,
Bob Kenlay, Secretary

How To Create Or Leave A Group Text

Group texts can be a fun and convenient way to talk to all your friends or family at once. However, it can also be a real pain when you're trying to focus on another task, and your phone won't stop going off. Or you were put in the group chat by mistake and don't need to receive notifications that don't pertain to you.

Whether you're an iPhone or Android user, you can leave a group text once and for all if you wish to.

How do I create a group text on my iPhone?

Open your iMessage app and tap the Compose button in the top right-hand corner to form a new message
In the tab at the top, enter the names of the people you want in the group text
Type your message in the text box and press Send
Note: Messages will appear in blue text bubbles if you're sending a group text to all iPhone users. Messages will appear in green text bubbles if anyone in the group text does not have an iPhone.

How do I create a group text on my Android?

Open the messages app, tap the hamburger menu on the left-hand side, and select Groups
Tap Create Group
Enter what you want to name the group and click Add Member
Type in the people you want to add to the group and press Done when finished
Once everyone has been added, press Save

How do I leave a group text on my iPhone?

Open the group text you wish to leave in your iMessage app
Tap on the names of the people in the group at the top center of your screen
If you wish to stay in the group and not receive notifications, toggle on the Hide Alerts option
If you wish to leave the group altogether, tap Leave Conversation

How do I leave a group text on my Android?

Android users cannot leave group texts entirely, although there is the option of muting a group text so that you don't receive a ton of notifications. To mute a group text on Android:
Open the group text you wish to leave
Tap on the 3 vertical dots in the top right-hand corner of your screen
In the bottom right-hand corner, tap the bell icon to turn notifications off

Can I leave a group text if I formed it?

Unfortunately, you cannot leave a group text if you're the one who formed it, whether you're on an iPhone or Android phone. The best thing you can do is follow the steps above to mute notifications of the chat so that your device is not overwhelmed.

Credit: foxnews.com

Information On Dash Cams

The best dash cam for safety, security or just recording curiosities that happen on the road will depend on a few key features. It's hard to choose since there are so many dash cams on the market, most from brands you don't know.

First, think about your budget: You can spend tens to hundreds of dollars on a dash cam, but start with a rough idea of what your reason for having one is worth. If you want to record evidence of a crash you're involved in, that's easily worth hundreds of dollars; If you just want to capture the occasional YouTube moment, that might warrant spending less than $100.

Then realize that all dash cams have the same core purpose that makes them unique among digital cameras: They record live (not time lapse) video as you drive, running in a continuous loop, the "length" of which varies by the amount of storage in the cam. Every feature beyond that is optional and, often, superfluous.

Get a big SD card. The bigger the card, the longer that "loop" of recorded video you can mine for a clip you want to save. Memory cards are cheap, so buy the largest one your camera can handle. How much video a given card size will hold is determined by the specs of the camera as each will use different levels of video resolution and file compression: It's not possible to say that xx GB of storage will hold xx hours of video across all cams. Some dash cams come with a card, but it's usually a scrawny one so plan on buying your own. Avoid dash cams that only use internal memory and don't allow you to insert your own card, for capacity and convenience reasons.

Look for stable 4K recording. 4K may seem like overkill in a little device, but it allows you to better zoom in on details in a video clip and read small text like license plate numbers. Clips from a lesser 1080p HD cam might turn to mush when you do that. Bonus points for a cam that couples 4K recording with image stabilization.

Decide which views you want. All dash cams record the "over the hood" forward view but if you're a rideshare driver you may also want a view of the people in the cabin with you (but see the notes on audio recording below). If you're more concerned about evidence when you're rear-ended you might want a cam that supports an additional rear window lens and records what's behind your car. Some cams let you record all three.

Know that dash cams cut both ways. If you get in an accident with another driver, a visible dash camera is a sign that you have evidence. The other person may mention it to their insurance company, and attorneys may demand a copy of what you've recorded. That could go badly if you were in the wrong, but don't get in the habit of destroying recorded evidence that is known or discoverable. This is an argument for using the smallest, least noticeable dash cam.

Think about audio. When looking for the best dash cams, consider whether they have audio recording but, more importantly, make sure you can turn it off. Some states have two-party consent laws you'll violate if you use a cam to record the voices of casual carpoolers, Uber and Lyft customers, or friends and family in your car who aren't aware of the recording. And know that when an accident happens, spontaneous remarks like "Oh no, I didn't even see him" can hurt you in litigation if there's video. It is suggested to turn off dash cam microphones, though users interested in recording interactions with law enforcement may disagree.

More dash cams rely on apps as the screens rather than having a built-in one. You know how clunky it can be to reconnect to anything that talks to your phone via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, so bear that in mind when deciding on a dash cam without its own screen. On the other hand, some of the new phone-reliant dash cams also use that connection to upload clips to the cloud through your phone, which is a nice feature... as long as you pay attention to how much of your data plan it's using.

Scrutinize the mount. All dash cams come with a windshield mount, but they vary widely in adhesive type, size and occasionally, essential technology built into the mount like a GPS antenna. These factors determine if a cam is easy to move from car to car, if it's going to be big and ungainly, or whether it may block more of your view and potentially run afoul of your local laws on dash cam mounting.

Don't get bamboozled by bells and whistles. The main reason for a dash cam is recording video. Many cams are trying to differentiate themselves in a crowded market with features like AI driver assistance alerts, cloud backup, voice commands and supercapacitor power sources. None of these are key to getting a great dash cam. On the other hand, new features like AI fog removal or a glare-reducing polarizer built into the lens are useful innovations in the main job of recording solid video.

Dress the cable. Every dash cam needs a power cable and nothing looks worse than having it messily hang down to your 12V outlet in the dash. That also screams out to passing thieves that you have something worth stealing in your car. Take the time to tuck the cable into crevices and gaps in your interior trim as it snakes its way down to the dash. Many cams come with a simple little plastic "butter knife" that aids in tucking the cable, if not, just use a real butter knife.

Dash Cam FAQs

How do I install a dash cam?

The best dash cams are easy to install. In fact, installation is often as simple as finding a suitable location on your vehicle's windshield or dashboard, affixing the camera with the suction cup or adhesive mount that usually comes in the box and then connecting the camera to 12-volt power, commonly known as the cigarette lighter socket on older vehicles. You'll want to take care when securing and routing the power cable, so it stays out of the way while driving. You may also need to insert a microSD card into the camera, if one is required and not preinstalled.

More complex multicamera systems may require you to install a second rear-facing camera. Sometimes this is as simple as attaching a second camera to the rear window and running a cable. Other kits may require you to attach the second camera to the license plate with a pair of screws and routing cable through the trunk and into the cabin. Other multicamera kits can get even more complex. If you feel out of your depth, contact a professional installer.

For dash cams that can monitor and record while your car is parked, or if you're looking for a cleaner installation that doesn't block your 12-volt outlet, you may want to consider hardwiring the device to your car's battery. You can usually find an appropriate fused connection in your vehicle's fuse box. If you're unfamiliar with car electronics installation, a professional installer should be able to help.

Are dash cams worth the money?

Yes and no. The happiest scenario is that you buy the best dash cam, drive for years without incident and never need to look at or even think about the footage. Technically, you bought a product you didn't need.

However, a dash cam can be invaluable when the unpredictable happens. After a fender bender, being able to prove your innocence with video or GPS evidence can save you hundreds of dollars on repairs, insurance premiums and legal fees. A relatively inexpensive dash cam is certainly worth the money in that regard.

It's better to think of these devices the way we think of insurance or fire extinguishers, it's better to have it and not need it, than vice versa.

Are dash cams illegal?

Like most devices or modifications you make to your car, the answer depends on the laws in your area at the time. There are no known states that outright ban putting a camera in your car. So, generally speaking, the answer is no, dash cams are not illegal. However, there are factors you should consider when choosing the best dash cam for your individual needs and plans.

For example, many states have restrictions banning mounting gadgets or obstructions on the windshield. In these regions, you may consider a dashboard-mount, a camera that replaces or fits over the rearview mirror or some other low-profile installation option. Other states limit where on the windshield you're allowed to mount gadgets. So, you might have to put your camera in a corner of the windshield rather than in the center to avoid a ticket in these states.

Some states' distracted driving laws prohibit dash cams with always-on screens, so consider one with the option to disable the display while driving or one with no display at all. Honestly, even if you're not afraid of law enforcement here, not having another screen glowing in your periphery while driving, especially at night, is a good idea.

Finally, you'll need to consider your state's privacy and surveillance laws. They typically don't apply to recording what's happening around your car while you're driving, but drivers for ride-hailing services who pick up passengers, owners who share their vehicles with other drivers or who install a camera that continues to record while they're away from the car should check their local laws to make sure they don't run afoul of the law.

As mentioned earlier, this is particularly important for cameras that record audio, which could rub up against two-party consent laws governing audio eavesdropping.

Credit: cnet.com

Learn more about dash cams during our next club
meeting, 2-15-23, at 9:00AM in the Orchid Club.

Executive Board Minutes

Computer Technology Club, Inc.
Executive Board Minutes
February 10, 2023

Alan Marcus, President, called the meeting to order at 9:00AM. Members in attendance: Jim Trimboli, Bob Kenlay, Bob Leiner, Don Forgette, Mike Metelits, Bill Balch, and Alan Marcus.

The Secretary’s report was read by Bob Kenlay. No corrections or additions necessary.

Jim Trimboli then read the current Treasurer's report. The current balance is $1459.85.

Alan Marcus asked about a concern of the future of the computer club. After a lengthy discussion, it was agreed to continued to review the attendance until June.

Past membership: 2019 - 132 members; 2022 - 100 members; 2023 - 42 members.

Future meeting topics:

Feb 15 - What to look for when buying a dash cam

Mar 15 - How to participate in a Zoom meeting

Apr 19 - Streaming TV basics

The meeting adjourned at 9:40AM.

Respectfully submitted,
Bob Kenlay, Secretary

Clear Cache On Android For Better Performance

Have you noticed that your Android device is starting to feel sluggish? You're not alone.

This can happen when too much storage space is taken up, and it happens with Android like any other device. There's an easy way to fix this problem by clearing the cache from your Android apps and web browsers.

Clearing cache from your Android apps will not only help speed up the apps you already have, it will also free up space for you to download more apps. Please note settings may vary depending on your Android phone's manufacturer.

How to clear app cache from your Android:

Open the Settings app on your Android
Select Apps
Tap the hamburger menu next to Your apps
Under sort by, select Size and press OK. This will organize your apps by size, with the app that takes up the most storage space appearing at the top
Under your apps, select the apps which you want to clear cache from
When you select an app, you'll be taken to the App Info page. Select Storage
Select Clear Cache in the bottom right-hand corner.

How to clear the cache on an Android TCL:

Open the Settings app on your Android
Select Apps
Tap Apps info
Select all apps you wish to clear the cache from
Tap Storage & cache
Select Clear Cache

Like any device, web browsers on Androids also become cluttered with cache. Whether you're using Chrome, Firefox or Microsoft Edge, they all will contain stored images and files that are meant to make your browsing experience easier and more personal to you. However, it's good to clear your cache on these browsers now and then to avoid your Android storage getting too full.

How to clear your Chrome cache on your Android:

Open the Chrome app
Tap the 3 vertical dots in the top right-hand corner
Select Settings
Go to Privacy and security
Select Clear browsing data
In the Time range menu, select the time range you wish to clear your cache from
Select Cached images and files
Select Clear data.

How to clear your Firefox cache on your Android:

Open the Firefox app
Tap the 3 vertical dots in the top right-hand corner
Select Settings
Go to Delete browsing data
Select Cached images and files
Tap Delete browsing data
Select Delete.

How to clear your Microsoft Edge cache on your Android:

Open the Microsoft Edge app
In the browser's bottom bar, tap the 3 horizontal dots
Select Settings
Select Privacy and security
Tap Clear browsing data
In the Time range menu, select the time range you wish to clear your cache from
Select Cached images and files
Select Clear data.

Credit: foxnews.com

What Is WhatsApp?

WhatsApp (also called WhatsApp Messenger) is an internationally available freeware, cross-platform, centralized instant messaging (IM) and voice-over-IP (VoIP) service owned by American company Meta Platforms. It allows users to send text and voice messages, make voice and video calls, and share images, documents, user locations, and other content.

WhatsApp's client application runs on mobile devices, and can be accessed from computers. The service requires a cellular mobile telephone number to sign up. In January 2018, WhatsApp released a standalone business app called WhatsApp Business which can communicate with the standard WhatsApp client.

The client application was created by WhatsApp Inc. of Mountain View, California, which was acquired by Facebook in February 2014 for approximately US$19.3 billion. It became the world's most popular messaging application by 2015, and had more than 2 billion users worldwide by February 2020.

By 2016, it had become the primary means of Internet communication in regions including Latin America, the Indian subcontinent, and large parts of Europe and Africa.

Credit: wikipedia.com

Learn more about WhatsApp, including Chat and Browse, during
our next club meeting, 1-25-23, at 9:00AM in the Orchid Club.

Executive Board Minutes

Computer Technology Club, Inc.
Executive Board Minutes
January 13, 2023

Alan Marcus, President, called the meeting to order at 9:00AM. Members in attendance: Jim Trimboli, Bob Kenlay, Bob Leiner, Don Forgette, Linda Tingley, Bill Balch, and Alan Marcus.

The Secretary’s report was read by Bob Kenlay. No corrections or additions necessary.

Jim Trimboli read the current Treasurer's report. The current balance is $1440.85.

Alan Marcus reported that the club fair will be held on Feb 1, 2023 at the Palm Grove. Bill Balch will man the CTC booth and has requested that anyone interested can assist.

Alan Marcus asked about the future of the computer club because of low attendance at our past meetings. Alan Marcus read a letter sent by Ron Kenyon as possible ways to interest new members. Possible subjects would be drones, e-bikes or smart homes. It was agreed to review the question in six months.

Past membership: 2019 - 132 members; 2022 - 100 members; 2023 - 33 members.

Bill Balch suggested that we check with some other communities and determine how their clubs are doing.

Future meeting topics:

Jan 25 - Whatsapp, Chat and Browse by Bill Balch

Feb 15 - What to look for when buying a dash cam

Mar 15 - How to participate in a Zoom meeting

Apr 19 - Streaming TV basics

The meeting adjourned at 10:05AM.

Respectfully submitted,
Bob Kenlay, Secretary

Know If Your Phone Is Listening To You

Apple Bytes: 

Imagine you’re having a simple conversation with a friend or family member. Your child wants a specific toy for the holidays, you’re thinking about trying a different hair product, you need a new pair of sunglasses. Naturally, the first place you might search for these products are sites like Google or Amazon.

But before you can even get to the search bar, ads are popping up on your phone screen for the exact products you were just speaking about moments before. It could be a coincidence, but it’s important to know for sure that nothing suspicious is going on. Are our smartphones always listening to us? The answer really is yes and no.

What are voice-recognition assistants and should you be concerned?

Smartphones often have built-in voice-recognition assistants that can help us find answers to questions, such as the Apple iPhone feature known as Siri. But these assistants are designed to listen to us only when commanded to (i.e. "Hey Siri, what song is currently playing?).

How can you tell if your device is listening to you?

There are built-in microphones in every smartphone as well, and your device should warn you when its microphone is being used to record you. When your microphone is being used, an orange dot should appear in the top right-hand corner of your screen, just above your Wi-Fi and battery icons. You can also swipe down from the top of your screen to see which apps on your phone are using the microphone.

Your smartphone is also designed to track your data and search histories. This allows companies to send you personalized advertisements based on items you’ve clicked on or researched previously, baiting you to consume more of their products. It’s more of a tool they use to get you to reach into your wallet than to obtain your personal information.

How can you limit your phone from listening to you?

Just because our smartphones can listen to us, doesn’t mean we have to let them. These are a few easy steps you can take to limit your phone’s listening access:

1) Turn off your voice-recognition assistant

How to turn off Siri
Go to Settings
Click "Siri & Search"
Turn off the following options: Listen for "Hey Siri," Press Side Button for Siri, and Allow Siri When Locked
A pop-up window will ask if you want to turn off Siri: Click "Turn off Siri"

How to turn off Google Assistant
Go to Settings
Select Google
Click Account Services
Click Search, Assistant & Voice Select Voice
Select Voice Match
Turn off "Hey Google"

2) Turn off the microphone on all your applications

How to stop your iOS device from listening to you
Click Settings
Scroll down to any application (Facebook, Snapchat, etc.)
Turn off Microphone option

Credit: foxnews.com

DuckDuckGo Blocks Google's Popups

Have you noticed that websites are offering you a friendly new way to sign-in with Google? Try Investing.com. When you hit the site, Google displays a popup recommending that you sign in the top right. If you’re on a phone, the prompt takes up almost half your screen. And if you’re using Chrome, you can sign in with a single click, the fastest way to make the popup go away. Don’t have an account on Investing.com? Google will automatically make one for you.

It’s convenient if you want Google to harvest data about your behavior, or if you just want an easy way to sign in, or both. But for anyone who’d rather not, this new wave of popups may be an unwelcome intrusion that seems difficult to evade. There’s an easy fix. Download any DuckDuckGo app or extension, and you can kiss those popups good-bye.

DuckDuckGo, the internet’s favorite private search engine, rolled out a new feature across its service on 12-21-22 called Google Sign-in Pop-up Protection, It’s on by default, saving your eyes and your time from Google’s nagging. You can still sign in with Google whenever you want, you just don’t have to deal with Google’s prompts.

“They popups are invasive, annoying and they undermine user privacy,” said Peter Dolanjski, director of product for DuckDuckGo. “Google is employing a dark pattern by pushing you to sign in when you might not have otherwise. When you do, Google is is tracking what you do on those websites and linking it to your identity.”

Google Sign In is nothing new, but the popups are a subtle but pervasive change to the web. You can find them on Booking.com, Pinterest, Reddit, Trulio, Zillo and countless more. “We believe google is pitching the popups to these websites as a win-win,” Dolanjski said. “If they can get more users to sign in, it opens up more data collection both for Google and publishers, and it lets Google better target users with ads.” That means more money for everyone involved, except you.

Is what Google is doing the worst business practice in the world? Absolutely not. But there are situations where it undermines user choice. If you’re using a browser or an extension to protect your privacy (DuckDuckGo, for example), those protections go out the window. When you’re signed in, Google has everything it needs to spy on you.

Credit: gizmodo.com

What Is Cloud Computing?

When you stream your favorite album online, shop at an e-commerce store or answer your work email from your home computer, you’re reaping the benefits of cloud computing.

Cloud computing is a form of computing in which networks, data storage, applications, security and development tools are all enabled via the Internet, as opposed to a local computer or an on-premise server in your organization.

If you use a computer or mobile device at home or at work, you almost certainly use some form of cloud computing every day, whether it’s a cloud application like Google Gmail or Salesforce, streaming media like Netflix, or cloud file storage like Dropbox. According to a recent survey, 92% of organizations use cloud today and most of them plan to use it more within the next year.

Public cloud is a type of cloud computing in which a cloud service provider makes computing resources available to users over the public internet. These resources might be accessible for free, or access might be sold according to subscription-based or pay-per-usage pricing models.

The public cloud provider owns, manages, and assumes all responsibility for the data centers, hardware, and infrastructure on which its customers’ workloads run, and it typically provides high-bandwidth network connectivity to ensure high performance and rapid access to applications and data.

Private cloud is a cloud environment in which all cloud infrastructure and computing resources are dedicated to, and accessible by, one customer only. Private cloud combines many of the benefits of cloud computing, including elasticity, scalability, and ease of service delivery, with the access control, security, and resource customization of on-premises infrastructure.

A private cloud is typically hosted on-premises in the customer's data center. But a private cloud can also be hosted on an independent cloud provider’s infrastructure or built on rented infrastructure housed in an offsite data center.

Hybrid cloud is just what it sounds like, a combination of public and private cloud environments. Specifically, and ideally, a hybrid cloud connects an organization's private cloud services and public clouds into a single, flexible infrastructure for running the organization’s applications and workloads.

Multicloud is the use of two or more clouds from two or more different cloud providers. Having a multicloud environment can be as simple as using email from one vendor and image editing from another. But when enterprises talk about multicloud, they're typically talking about using multiple cloud services from two or more of the leading public cloud providers. In one survey, 85% of organizations reported using multicloud environments.

Hybrid multicloud is the use of two or more public clouds together with a private cloud environment.

Traditionally, security concerns have been the primary obstacle for organizations considering cloud services, particularly public cloud services. In response to demand, however, the security offered by cloud service providers is steadily outstripping on-premises security solutions.

Credit: ibm.com & snhu.edu

Club members can learn more about cloud computing by attending the 12-21-22 meeting at 9:00AM in the Orchid Club.

Executive Board Minutes

Computer Technology Club, Inc.
Executive Board Minutes
December 9, 2022

Alan Marcus, President, called the meeting to order at 9:00AM. Members in attendance: Jim Trimboli, Bob Kenlay, Bob Leiner, Don Forgette, Linda Tingley, Bill Balch, Mike Metelits and Alan Marcus.

The Secretary’s report was read by Bob Kenlay. No corrections or additions necessary.

Jim Trimboli then read the current Treasurer's report. The current balance is $1515.85.

Alan Marcus will contact the DOD for the Holiday party to open the Kitchen door.

Alan Marcus asked if any could assist with the Feb, Mar and Apr meeting topics. Will be determined at a future meeting.

Future meeting topics:

Dec 21 - Holiday Party and Cloud Computing

Jan 25 - Whatsapp, Chat and Browse by Bill Balch

Feb 15 - What to look for when buying a dash cam

Mar 15 - How to participate in a Zoom meeting

Apr 19 - Streaming TV basics

The meeting adjourned at 9:25AM.

Respectfully submitted,
Bob Kenlay, Secretary

Replace Router Without Disconnecting Devices

Upgrading to a new Wi-Fi router doesn’t have to be hard. Here’s how to easily switch all your smart home gadgets and other connected devices in your home to a new router in under a minute.

When it’s finally time to get a new Wi-Fi router, there’s no need to panic. Whether you’ve switched internet service providers or you’ve decided to get something snappier, snazzier, and more reliable than whatever piece of plastic your ISP handed you, upgrading your router doesn’t have to be a headache.

If you have a smart home, you may be dreading the thought of having to manually update every light bulb, light switch, and security camera in your home to the new network. While typing a new password into a laptop or iPad is pretty easy, when it comes to smart home devices, you have to open each app for every smart device and go through the process of updating its Wi-Fi access. This is a real challenge for devices like smart floodlight cameras, which may be on the side of your house, 15 feet up.

But there is an easier way! Here’s how to change out your Wi-Fi router without having to manually update each device.

• Make a note of your current Wi-Fi network name (wireless SSID) and password. This may be printed on your modem or router, or you can access it by going to your router settings page. This page can be found in the companion app or by typing http://192.168.1.1/ into a web browser. (If that IP address doesn’t work, you can find the right one for your router in the network settings of a computer connected to the network.)
• Set up your new router by following the manufacturer instructions.
• When you get to the stage where you have to create a network name and password, use the exact same name and password as your old network.
• Unplug your old router. (If your old router is combined with your modem, you will need to go into its settings to disable the Wi-Fi network there.)
• All your devices should now automatically connect to your new router using the same network name and password. Verify your devices are working properly.
• You’re done!

Credit: theverge.com

Domino’s Buys A Fleet Of Chevrolet Bolt EVs

On Monday, 11-21-22, Domino's announced the arrival of more than 100 Chevrolet Bolts to select Domino's locations with another 700 due by the end of 2023. You can even check on their progress online, of Bolt deliveries, not pizza deliveries, although that's possible, too, thanks to onboard telematics.

"Domino's has always been on the cutting edge of pizza delivery and electric delivery cars make sense as vehicle technology continues to evolve. We've made a commitment to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and this is one way we can begin reducing our environmental impact, one delivery at a time," said Russell Weiner, Domino's CEO.

The Bolt is an eminently sensible choice as one of the most affordable and efficient EVs for sale today. Domino's says that not only are there servicing and maintenance advantages to an EV fleet, but it should also help the company attract delivery drivers who don't have cars of their own.

Credit: arstechnica.com

Apple Wants To Change "Hey Siri" To Just "Siri"

Apple Bytes: 

While you currently have to say “Hey Siri” to activate the assistant hands-free, that may not be the case for much longer. Bloomberg reported on 11-7-22 that Apple engineers are working to drop the “Hey” part of the phrase, so you’d only have to say “Siri” followed by a command to activate the assistant.

In the latest edition of his Power On newsletter, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman says that this is “a technical challenge that requires a significant amount of AI training and underlying engineering work.” Apple has reportedly been working on this change for the last several months and hopes to roll it out either next year or in 2024 depending on the progress of development and testing.

As it stands today, Apple is testing this change with employees and is collecting the necessary training data as part of that process. One of the specific challenges is making sure Siri is able to understand the wake word in multiple different accents and dialects.

Apple is also working to make improvements to other aspects of Siri, including its integration into third-party applications and services. “It will integrate the voice assistant deeper into third-party apps and services and improve its ability to understand users and take the correct course of action,” Bloomberg says in the report.

Apple’s mission to change Siri’s wake phrase from “Hey Siri” to just “Siri” shouldn’t come as a huge surprise. Doing so would match what’s offered by Amazon, where you simply have to say “Alexa” to trigger the assistant, not “Hey Alexa.” It would also give Apple a leg up on Google, where the wake phrase is “Hey Google” or “OK Google.”

But as the report says, this isn’t a small undertaking and there’s a lot of training and behind-the-scenes work that goes into a change like this. For Apple, this is especially true as Siri is already prone to a number of false positives particularly with activations of Siri on the HomePod.

Credit: 9to5mac.com

Executive Board Minutes

Computer Technology Club, Inc.
Executive Board Minutes
November 11, 2022

Alan Marcus, President, called the meeting to order at 9:00AM. Members in attendance: Jim Trimboli, Bob Kenlay, Bob Leiner, Don Forgette, Linda Tingley, Bill Balch and Alan Marcus.

The Secretary’s report was read by Bob Kenlay. No corrections or additions necessary.

Jim Trimboli then read the current Treasurer's report. The current balance is $1563.85.

Linda Tingley will purchase 8 dozen donuts & 2 lbs. coffee for the Holiday party.

Alan Marcus suggested that we buy $1 scratch off tickets for the Holiday party giveaway. Alan Marcus made the motion to purchase 100 scratch off tickets. The motion was seconded by Jim Trimboli. The motion was passed.

Jim Trimboli made a motion to buy 10 - $10 gift cards for the Holiday party. Linda Tingley seconded the motion. The motion was passed.

Alan Marcus said he received a message from Steve Maly that he is no longer a resident of Oak Run. Linda Tingley confirmed that he has resigned as Vice President. Alan Marcus will mention at the next club meeting for any nominations for the club Vice President position.

Linda Tingley ask how we should determine the distribution of the 50/50 funds. It was agreed that Linda should make that decision depending on the amount collected.

Future meeting topics:

Nov 16 - Using Team Viewer to get computer help and to remotely control your computer

Dec 21 - Holiday Party and Cloud Computing

Jan 25 - Whatsapp, Chat and Browse by Bill Balch

Feb 15 - What to look for when buying a dash cam

Mar 15 - How to participate in a Zoom meeting

Apr 19 - Streaming TV basics

The meeting adjourned at 9:40AM.

Respectfully submitted,
Bob Kenlay, Secretary

WiFi Security Flaw Lets Drone Track Devices

WiFi's friendliness to other devices might pose a significant threat in the wrong circumstances. University of Waterloo researchers have discovered a security flaw in the networking standard that lets attackers track devices through walls.

The technique identifies the location of a device within 3.3ft just by exploiting WiFi devices' automatic contact responses (even on password-protected networks) and measuring the response times. You can identify all the connected hardware in a room, and even track people's movements if they have a phone or smartwatch.

The scientists tested the exploit by modifying an off-the-shelf drone to create a flying scanning device, the Wi-Peep. The robotic aircraft sends several messages to each device as it flies around, establishing the positions of devices in each room.

A thief using the drone could find vulnerable areas in a home or office by checking for the absence of security cameras and other signs that a room is monitored or occupied. It could also be used to follow a security guard, or even to help rival hotels spy on each other by gauging the number of rooms in use.

There have been attempts to exploit similar WiFi problems before, but the team says these typically require bulky and costly devices that would give away attempts. Wi-Peep only requires a small drone and about $15 in equipment that includes two WiFi modules and a voltage regulator.

An intruder could quickly scan a building without revealing their presence.

Research lead Dr. Ali Abedi is calling for changes to the WiFi standard to prevent devices from responding to "strangers." That may take years, however, and Abedi suggests that hardware makers address the issue in the meantime by introducing randomized response times.

The chances of burglars using drones to map your home devices aren't high at this stage (they'd still need the know-how), but there are things developers can do to thwart these aerial spying efforts.

Credit: engadget.com