Carlette DeLeon

Send me a WhatsApp ... on IG

2019-01-30T11:02:00.000-05:00

We love IG. Arguably, Instagram is Jamaica’s most popular social media app. Its got a plethora of ever-expanding features to deliver up multiple dopamine hits with every use. In short, Instagram is addictive.

What do you do when you have a hit product everyone loves? Well, you mess it up of course. Remember Classic Coke?

We should have seen this coming when Facebook creator Mark Zuckerberg led the multibillion-dollar acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp.

In a move that Instagram users are likely going to hate, IG owners Facebook are reportedly considering merging the backend with the equally popular WhatsApp and waning in popularity Facebook making the three apps interoperable.

The result: three stand-alone platforms across which you can send messages to any user. Users of any and all apps would be able to send a message to users on another platform, without leaving the app. Sounds cool? I don’t think so.

WhatsApp supports End-to-End (E2E) encryption for messages. Currently, Facebook offers limited E2E encryption for messages, and Instagram does not offer the feature. E2E encryption keeps messages secure from the government, law enforcement, hackers and advertisers; the last of which is key to Facebook’s business model.

“We want to build the best messaging experiences we can; and people want messaging to be fast, simple, reliable and private,” explained Facebook in a statement to the UK based Guardian. "We’re working on making more of our messaging products end-to-end encrypted and considering ways to make it easier to reach friends and family across networks. As you would expect, there is a lot of discussion and debate as we begin the long process of figuring out all the details of how this will work,” they added.

Beyond message privacy, there is user data privacy. Facebook’s challenges with this topic are well documented.

Privacy aside, the proposed interoperability among three of the worlds most popular apps used, often daily or at least by me, by billions of people and businesses around the globe raises anti-trust questions.

Of note, the founders of both WhatsApp and Instagram have resigned from Facebook within the last year.

What can we do? Perhaps it's time for us to redirect our digital addictions to a different platform.

Ready to up your Instagram game? Use Stories

2019-01-23T16:57:00.002-05:00

You don’t have to be a business or a brand to use Instagram effectively. But here are a few tips to catapult your Insta Stories to a whole new level.

First off, Stories are images (photos or 15-sec videos) that once posted ‘disappear’ from view on your account 24 hours later. Of course, ‘disappear’ is relative. Stories can be highlighted to keep them accessible to your followers.

You can add text, GIFS, filters, mentions, stickers and a myriad of other overlays to your photos and videos to increase interest in your content. You can even draw or handwrite over your story post.
Instagram is always adding features to Stories to keep us interested and engaged. Some of the best features include polls and share posts to Stories.

To get started with Stories, click on Your Story with the plus sign in the top left side of your Instagram app. To get started quickly, just press the big circle. To get deeper into the feature set, keep reading.

You can control many Story settings by clicking on the gear icon on the upper left corner.
At the bottom of the screen are several options, so many that you need to swipe left just to see the full menu of options available.

The first square in the lower left is our camera roll. Tap here to see the last 24 hours worth of videos and photos on your device. To the right of that square is a lightning bolt trapped in a circle, these are your standard light/flash settings. Hit up the two arrows to the right of the Record button to switch to/from selfie view. Then feel free to add filters and effects by tapping the cute face with two plus marks icon. This will launch a new menu with more options, enough to make your head spin.

Below all of that is another menu. This menu includes Type for text-based posts, Live to ‘cast’ your content in real time, the ever popular Boomerang and additional features like Superzoom, Focus, Rewind and Handsfree.

Once you’ve created your original content, you can post to Your Story or just share with Close Friends.

Wait, we are not finished yet. You can then swipe up for stickers, graphics, GIFs, sliders and polls. Sliders and polls are a great way for your followers to interact with your posts in addition to liking and messaging, which are additional features.

Then, let’s not forget that you can share Instagram posts to your story. You can share your own timeline posts or shout out to another Instagrammer by sharing their post to your account. To do this, click on the paper aeroplane at the bottom of the post you wish to share.

Instagram archives your Stories by default, so you can always have access to them which is really helpful if you wish to highlight your post so that all your followers can view all time. These highlights come up on circles just above your timeline photos. Feel free to highlight individual stories and group stories into collections.

And imagine, all of this related to but one feature of Instagram - Stories. Go forth and tell your story on IG.

Protect Your Digital Self: Tech Brawta

2018-10-24T23:06:00.000-04:00

It’s a mad, mad, mad, mad world.

Until that changes, and I strongly recommend no breath holding, we have to take the securing to our digital identity into our own hands.

There is no foolproof way to protect our digital identity, but every step towards tighter security is a step further away from digital danger. So, let’s take a few steps together.

Step 1: Strong, Unique Passwords

By now, you’ve heard it a million times, but it is clear that some of us, including Kayne West, simply do not listen. Having a strong, unique password for every account and every device is both necessary and effective.

I no longer expect you to remember every password. I expect you to use a good password manager like Last Pass or 1Password. If you’re a Mac, consider using Keychain. Each of these options will help you create long and complex passwords, keep track of account login information, and add an extra layer of protection for your data.

Step 2: Turn On 2FA

Two Factor Authentication requires you to use a secondary, separate verification method to access your account. Often, an access code is generated by, or sent to, your mobile phone. Alternately you may have a dedicated physical device, often called a token. There are even further options.

Regardless of the 2FA methodology, the short version is, it makes it harder for bad guys to get into your account because it is less likely that they would have both your password and access to your secondary authentication method.

Step 3: Use a Secondary Email Account

Speaking of secondary, do not use your primary email for social media and other non-mission critical website or accounts.

Take the time to set up an alternate email address specifically for registrations. This account would not be for friends and family, nor would it be for correspondence with your financial institutions. This account would be exclusively for the ‘other stuff’.

Step 4: Keep Your Devices Updated

You don’t need the latest device, but you do need the latest Operating System (OS) and apps. Developers are always on the hunt for bugs and vulnerabilities. They fix these with updates. Without updates, you may be leaving your system open to hackers. Close up all possible loopholes by updating your OS, your anti-virus software, your firmware and your applications across all devices.

Step 5: Review and Refresh Settings

Something else developers do, change privacy policies, terms and settings. Often, without telling you.

So, you may think your profile is private and unable to be shared with third parties, only to find out the hard way that six months after you took nearly an hour to perfectly tweak your privacy settings that the website you visited is using your clever content in a not so clever marketing campaign.

Put to stop to this, or at least try, by periodically reviewing your settings and refreshing where necessary. Look closely to ensure you didn’t 'opt-in' to something you wish you’d never heard of. Double check to make sure that the privacy policies match your expectations.

These five steps are the first steps, to maintaining the credibility of your identity online. Execute. Repeat.

Tune in to @RJR94FM every Wednesday morning at 8:15 AM for #Tech4Life

Stop Google Location Tracking - Tech Brawta

2018-08-22T20:47:00.002-04:00

AP recently reported that Google is tracking user locations … even when “Location History” is turned off!

If you want to keep Google from logging your every move, grab your device and follow these seven steps.

Log into your Google account through your browser
Click on “Google Account”
Click on “Persona Info and Privacy”
Click on “Go to My Activity
Click on Activity Controls
Click on “Web & App Activity”
Toggle to “Off”

Then, repeat for all your Google Accounts.

You may end up with slower searches and less relevant search results because privacy comes at a cost.

Tune in to @RJR94FM Wednesdays at 8:15 am

Decoding Cryptocurrencies

2018-08-05T15:13:00.000-04:00

By now, you’ve probably heard of Bitcoin which means you’re on the spectrum ranging from heavily invested to totally spooked.

If you’re closer to spooked, allow me to share some simple facts.

Bitcoin is the first decentralized, unregulated, most popular, most valuable, cryptocurrency, sometimes call digital currency. Bitcoin is the first, but far from the only cryptocurrency. Other popular cryptocurrencies include Namecoin and Dogecoin (commonly referred to as ALT coins).

Unlike traditional currency, cryptocurrencies rely on cryptography and blockchains. Even kids in primary school use basic cryptography to pass secret notes to each other in class. However, blockchain is a term more familiar to hardcore coders than casual internet users. In this case, a blockchain is a distributed network of verifiable, updated, encrypted and synchronized ledgers.

Blockchains are maintained by “miners” who receive a reward and/or transaction fee for updating, maintaining, verifying the blockchain. There are a fixed number of bitcoin, 21 million to be exact. And “mining” bitcoin requires an increasing amount of time and computing power.

Cryptocurrencies are virtually impossible to counterfeit, hack, duplicate or accidentally “double spend”. It’s these remarkable features that help bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies to retain their value.

The trifecta of features including anonymity, security and potential reward combine to make cryptocurrencies very attractive to criminals, failed Governments and legitimate investors.

Are you ready to jump in and invest? Well then, you’ll need some money (which kinda goes without saying) and you will also need to set up a “wallet” on an “exchange” such as Coinbase. It also goes without saying that you should always backup your data including your private and public key.

We can thank Satoshi Nakamoto for the invention of bitcoin back in 2008. I’d like to tell you who Nakamoto is, but no one really knows. We don’t know if Nakamoto is a person or a group. Like bitcoin itself, the Nakamoto’s true identity is secure and anonymous.

Tech4Life airs every Wednesday morning on @RJR94FM at 8:15 AM

Tapping Into the Future Today

2018-01-08T09:00:00.000-05:00

Young people are predisposed to technology, they seem to just have a knack. True. But they still need guidance to truly harness their abilities.

Enter TAP. The Technology Advancement Programme referred to as TAP, will screen, select, train and in effect, employ, 1,000 young adults in ICT (Information and Communications Technology). 1,000!

The yearlong programme will take the participants through an intensive syllabus in the classroom and through to real-world, hands-on training in the work world.

Ministry Project

The Ministry of Science, Energy and Technology, through the Universal Service Fund (USF), has a mandate to “Support information and communications technology programmes that specifically target venerable groups including youth and disabled persons”. The TAP programme brilliantly addresses this mandate in several ways.

First, TAP is open to unattached youth between the ages of 18 and 35 residing in all 14 parishes. Second, no prior ICT skills are necessary as the robust programme is designed to train participants at all educational levels; that means that beginners, intermediates and experts will all be accommodated. Third, the programme provides a stipend for participants to remove any possible barriers to participation.

Then, most importantly, upon completion of TAP, the graduates will be well equipped to become tech entrepreneurs or seek gainful employment in the private or public sector. Further, the programme also features placement services for participants placing them based on their competence, interests and the needs of the host organization in the areas of ICT Research, Data Analysis and Digitization.

Launch Event

At the launch event, the Minister of Science, Energy and Technology, Dr The Hon. Andrew Wheatley noted that in effect, TAP prepares these young people to be active and successful participants in our knowledge-based digital society. It’s no secret that the Government of Jamaica (GOJ) is committed to ushering the island into the forefront of what some refer to as the fourth industrial revolution.

Technology is not isolated. It touches everything!! All industries, including Agriculture, Manufacturing, Education and Health among many others, all benefit from technology. The reality is that there is no option; technology is necessary for all industries.

As the Minister noted, TAP will empower the population to truly harness the opportunities presented by technology.

The comprehensive programme will be rolled out islandwide with the assistance of the Caribbean Maritime University (CMU). CMU President, Prof Fitz Pinnock attended the launch to show his support for the programme. Also in attendance were Mrs Hillary Alexander, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Science, Energy and Technology, Mr Robert Lawrence, Board Chairman of the USF and USF CEO Suzette Buchanan.

The TAP programme kicks off in January 2018.

Watch the full launch.

Digital Dangers: Ransomware

2017-07-16T22:33:00.001-04:00

Ransomware is, in effect, a monetized version of malware. Ransomware is malicious software designed to extort money from its victims. Ransomware takes control of victim data and threatens to publish or purge pending payment.

The rise and spread of ransomware are of concern globally and locally. Recent reports of WannaCry, Petya and NotPetya, amongst others, wreaking havoc on international systems are becoming more frequent.

Earlier this year, SchoolManagerJa, a cloud based grade administration tool for local educational institutions, found its data externally encrypted, thereby blocking their access. The hackers demanded the handsome sum of US$5,000.00 for the release of the data.

Neither SchoolManagerJa nor the 14 schools affected paid the ransom. In a Gleaner report, SchoolManagerJa owner Michael Dingwall commented, “I can't pay them. Even if I should pay them, it's almost certain they would not unscramble it [the data] because what they did is a crime. All I would be doing if I pay them is contribute to a crime to help them to do this to other people, and, perhaps, to come back and do it to me in the future.”

Many other local cases remain unreported.

Ransomware is disseminated in various ways with phishing and click bait being common ways malware can infect systems and exploit security holes, like outdated and vulnerable operating systems (OS), to launch its destructive capacities.

Hackers often request payment in Bit Coin, a hard to trace crypto-currency. Security experts advise victims not to pay ransom for data because there is no guarantee of recovery. Further, each payment provides encouragement to hackers to deploy ever improving ransomware efforts.

There is no foolproof way to shield your system from a ransomware attack, but by following these seven steps, you increase your odds of keeping your data safe.

Tip 1: Schedule and run frequent security checks

Tip 2: Install or update to the latest OS, software and security updates and patches

Tip 3: Update and run anti-virus and anti-malware software frequently

Tip 4: Encrypt and frequently back up sensitive data

Tip 5: Create a unique username and password for every account and change regularly

Tip 6: Clear cloud based messaging app conversations

Tip 7: Beware of public Wi-Fi; use a VPN, private browser and a firewall for maximum protection

RJR's Tech4Life airs on @RJR94FM every Wednesday at 8:15 am

Digital Dangers - Quizzes and Memes

2017-07-15T22:25:00.000-04:00

It all seems so cute and innocent. A friend posts a list of all the great concerts they attended to their timeline and encourages you to do the same. Or maybe, you saw a friend post results from a quiz that revealed something new and you consider trying it too.

STOP.

Be very wary of Facebook quizzes and memes! It’s true, they may seem fun, but they can also be dangerous. Yes, dangerous! Think about the information that you share - Pages you like/places you do business. Mom’s name in the About Me section/security question and answer.

These unassuming quizzes may deliberately, or unwittingly, reveal your personal data to third parties like marketers or hackers. They are not necessarily as harmless as they purport to be. At worst, they are click bait, designed to lead users to other sites. At best, they reveal personal information that in the wrong hands, can be extremely damaging.

Spotting the Danger

Let’s start with the third party quizzes that are prolific on Facebook and that FB is actively trying to limit. Some of these quizzes do ask permission before posting in your name to the platform. When they did, did you read their privacy policy? I’d be willing to bet you didn’t. If they have access to post on your behalf, what else could they post as you? How would friends know that you didn’t really initiate the post?

Let’s look at the memes. Unlike the third party apps, memes just appear as a post from a friend with lots of personal information on them and an invitation for you to share as well and “continue the chain”. But take a closer look; the answers being revealed are often closely related to common security questions or can provide clues for an effective spear phishing attack.

Steering Clear

If you’d like to avoid unnecessary exposure to hacking and targeted marketing, I highly recommend that you stop using Facebook, Twitter or Google to log into third party apps. Also, take a moment to review, and as necessary revoke, third party app access to your accounts. I know it’s tedious, but it is recommended that you have a separate username and a strong, long, unique password for every account. No short cuts (unless of course, you consider a password manager as a short cut, in which case, go right ahead).

Be vigilant in the protection of your privacy.

Tech4Life airs every Wednesday morning at 8:15 AM

Digital Dangers Lurking in Maps

2017-07-15T14:31:00.001-04:00

Location tracking apps are certainly not new. But Snapchat’s new Snap Map feature has reignited the conversation around location tracking apps and privacy.

I will assume that you know what is Snapchat. The popular messaging app launched a new feature encouraging users to share their current location in real time on an interactive map. Facebook and other social media apps have previously offered delayed and real time location notification, but Snapchat’s adds their twist by populating that data on a map.

With the Snap Map feature, Snap hopes its users will use the new feature to engage in real life and then create more content for the platform. Let’s stop for a moment and consider the irony of the digital social media app encouraging us to be more physically social.

Opponents of the new feature tout well founded privacy concerns, especially if the feature is not monitored. But in fact, it is.

Snap Map is an “opt-in” feature, meaning users must consciously turn it on to activate. The feature is also highly customizable. Users can limit who can see their live location for specific persons, friends or the world. In ghost mode, users can see where friends are without revealing their own location.

It's important to note that the app only shares your location when the app is open. Once closed, location data is not shared and there is no background location tracking.

Though very popular, Snapchat faces stiff competition from its rival Instagram (IG), owned by Facebook. There is no word yet on whether IG will other a similar feature soon.

Tech4Life airs on @RJR94FM each Wednesday morning at 8:15 AM

Classic Console Revolution

2017-07-05T08:00:00.000-04:00

Traditional game consoles and handheld consoles are remarkably popular. The billion dollar gaming industry attracts a wide cross section of people; not just the stereotypical young adult make geek gamer.

Current consoles, like the Microsoft X One with Kinect, the Sony PlayStation 4 and its handheld cousin the Vita, the Nintendo Wii and Wii U along side the DS, 3DS and Switch handheld consoles, dominate the gaming market. But, before the powerful processors, internet connectivity and amazing graphics, there were the classic consoles like the Nintendo Super NES.

The introduction of the original Super NES was a hit and the introduction of the Super NES Classic late last year was equally successful. The Classic is a miniaturised (and modernised) replica of the original set top console. Classic boasts 30 of the (arguably) the best Nintendo games of the time pre-loaded on the console and a single, corded classic controller. Modern features like the micro USB power supply and an HDMI connection made the classic relevant in this day and age.

With the (surprise) success of the SNES Classic, Nintendo is poised to release an SNEC Classic Mini. As the name suggests, the Mini will take advantage of new technologies to scale down the overall console size. Gamers are hoping that the latest Classic will have other new features like wireless controllers, downloadable games, cartridge support and an SD card slot.

Other retro consoles projected to make a comeback in 2017 include the Sega Genesis Flashback and Atari Box. The plethora of classic game choices along side a full suite of advanced gaming options is set to blow the video game industry wide open. It’s time to exercise your thumbs!

RJR's Tech4Life aires on @RJR94FM every Wednesday morning at 8:15 AM

Handing Over Your Handset for Repairs? Do this first!

2017-05-27T08:43:00.000-04:00

Almost everyone faces this challenge. Your handset is wonky and in need of professional attention. It’s time to take it to the repair shop to fix whatever’s gone wrong and you’re feeling justifiable anxiety.

What if they copy off my data? What if they damage it further? What if they install substitute parts? What if they install malware? While not all repair shops are unscrupulous, it is always best to take a few steps to add extra protection.

Step 1: Prepare

Prepare your smartphone by doing two things. First, un-encrypting the data. That's right, remove the encryption security feature temporarily. This will make it easier to move data to the cloud or another device. Second, make a note of both the phone IMEI number and the battery serial number (if removable).

Step 2: Wipe After Backup

It may seem extreme, but the best way to protect your data is to not hand it over at all. Leaving your password on offers some protection, but it can also prevent the repair technician from doing a thorough job or repairing and testing the phone.

Take a few moments to backup the handset to the cloud or a computer, ensure your data is retrievable and then proceed to wipe all settings and data. In effect, what you are doing is a factory reset to make the phone like the day you bought it.

Step 3: Remove the SIM & SD card

Protect your privacy by retaining your SIM card. If the technician needs to make a test call, they should have a compatible SIM on hand expressly for this purpose. Just be sure to let the technician know if your handset is locked to a specific network.

Similarly, pull out your micro SD card (if you’ve got one installed). Chances are, you’ve got more than just precious pictures on the card. Some smartphones save apps and critical data on the removable storage device in order to free up space on the unit.

If you forgot to unencrypt your card before removing it from a wiped handset, your data may be irretrievably lost. That’s why it’s listed at Step 1; it’s important!

Step 4: Take Pics

Rope in a friend to assist by using their smartphone to take pictures of your smartphone. Engage your ‘CSI’ self and take multiple pics from various angles including images of any damage, images of the internal components and clear images of the battery including the serial number where possible.

Step 5: Protective Packaging

Don’t transport your phone without protective packaging. Break out the original box, if you still have it, or some bubble wrap, if handy. You want to ensure that you don’t pick up any more bumps and scratches between when you transport it to the shop and when they return your repaired handset.

Step 6: Timestamp the receipt

Note the specific date and time your phone left your possession and keep this information with you. Let’s hope your phone is returned in perfect condition in a short time. If not, you made need your timestamped receipt to lodge a complaint. Worse, you made need your receipt to prove that you had no access to your handset for a period of time. The rest, I will leave to your imagination.

Once you've got your precious instrument back, check it thoroughly to ensure there are no new scratches. Make sure it is your phone and battery by inspecting the IMIE and battery serial number. Factory reset the phone one more time. Install your SIM and micro SD card. Then restore from your backup.

Once you're up and running, it is time to encrypt your data for maximum protection. Then back it up again. You're ready to go. Enjoy your repaired phone!

6 Easy Steps to Slash Your Smartphone Bill

2017-05-25T19:48:00.000-04:00

Smartphones are great!!

They keep us connected in a myriad of ways. They provide us with hours of entertainment. In some cases, they control our homes and keep us fit. It seems like there is very little a smartphone can’t do, including saving you money!

The price of convenience can be very high. Call charges. Data overages. Feature-rich contracts. They all come at a cost. But that cost is manageable by taking a few simple steps to tame your smartphone bill.

Step 1: Chose the Right Plan

Bundled minutes and data. Free weekends and nights. CUGs (Closed User Groups) and other options are only good if they apply to you. Scrutinise your bill regularly and update your plan periodically as your usage habits change.

There is no point in paying for features that you don’t use or underutilise. Compare your plan to other plans offered by your telecom or to plans offered by other telecoms. After all, thanks to number portability no one is trapped by a service provider.

Step 2: Consider Alternatives

Is it a smartphone, right? So, it’s connected. Some of us have already moved away from traditional cellular calls (you can go ahead and laugh if you remember life before cellular), while others are still waiting to hop on the VOIP (voice over internet protocol) bandwagon.

But VOIP, video conferencing and messaging are all great alternatives to phone calls. There is a plethora of apps that offer some, or all, of these options in one neat package. Most notably is WhatsApp. This nearly ubiquitous app offers text messaging, file sharing, voice calling and video calling on an encrypted platform for free. Only data charges apply if no Wi-Fi.

Concerns about call quality are diminishing fast as the technology evolves.

Step 3: Tame Data Use

So, sure. I just said VOIP is a great option, but care is still needed in data management.

Generally, VOIP options don’t consume that much data, but every bit and byte can add up. Especially if you’re not managing your data use correctly.

You should disable background refresh on most (if not all) apps, delete unnecessary apps and close apps that you’re not using. Apps can really drain your data and rack up expenses quickly and overages cost real money.

The trade off to save money by cutting data use in favour of Wi-Fi is not absolute, especially when dealing with sensitive data. Don’t jump onto any old hotspot just because it's free. Make sure it's safe before your browse; especially when visiting banking and email sites.

Step 4: Plan You Roam

If you thought your smartphone bill was high, try taking it on a trip overseas!

Roaming charges can put you in the poorhouse. Make sure that you have the right roaming plan. That’s a plan customised to the region you are visiting and your call, text and data needs.

Are you planning a long trip or a short trip? Going on vacay or on business? Is there reliable Wi-Fi in the hotel and other destinations on your itinerary? Do you need access to your VPN? Your answers to these questions will help determine if you can find a cost-effective plan or if you need to get a local SIM.

Step 5: Don’t Roam Overboard

In principle, data is cheaper than calling. That principle does not necessarily apply.

Before you head out to the airport, turn off data roaming for all non-essential apps to reduce the temptation to “just check” (this tip helps with my Amazon addiction) and consider if you must post to Instagram (or similar social media apps) in real time or if posting from the free hotel lobby Wi-Fi in the evening is just as good.

Save even more money: download maps for the destination and enjoy free access to GPS navigation for your trip.

Step 6: Ditch Voicemail

Seriously? You still have voicemail? That’s so 90’s. Get rid of it. There is no need to pay for calls you are not even receiving; especially when roaming.

Vigilance is the key to enjoying both the convenience and the cost of owning a smartphone.

How to Protect Your Credit Card Online

2017-04-19T19:21:00.000-04:00

In this day and age, the only way to be sure that your credit card is safe is to, not have one. Of course, the practical consequence of not having a credit card means no online shopping, no convenient on the go purchases and no easy digital management of various expenses.

Even mobile payments are tied to credit cards with precious few options to avoid the ubiquitous payment method.

Since not having a credit card is not practical (for me at least), let’s look at some tips to add security in an unsure cyber world.

Do Use Secure Sites with HTTPS

It goes without saying that you should only share your credit card information with trusted sites, but how do you know you can trust the site. Well, one thing to look out for is a little lock icon in your browser representing the HTTPS; the ’s’ stands for secure (the HTTP means Hypertext Transfer Protocol if your interested). Traffic on sites designated with the HTTPS is encrypted.

Reputable shopping sites like Amazon and even smaller shopping sites can make use of encryption to add another layer of protection to your personal financial information. If, it ain’t got the ’s’, don’t drop the $. Simple.

Do Monitor Statements

Online shopping is so convenient. So too, is checking your statement online. And the two should never be separated. Continuous monitoring of your transactions with a view to quickly identify and immediately report suspicious charges is a requirement of responsible online shopping practices.

If you consider even that too much, automate the process. Have your credit card company text you after ever transaction and report any fraudulent transactions faster than a Lamborghini can do zero to 60 mph.

Do Use Unique Passwords

Sure. It can be a pain to use a different password for every site. But, it is necessary. Even reputable businesses can be compromised putting your other accounts in danger. Unique passwords can help stop hackers in their tracks and keep their nefarious actions at bay.

Develop a system to help you remember the passwords or use a password manager like 1Password or LastPass. If you’re a Mac, consider the free, built-in, seamless iCloud KeyChain.

Regardless of which system you use, do immediately, if not already done, upgrade to two-factor authentication (2FA) on every account that offers the option. 2FA also adds an extra layer of security; in many cases when logging in, users have to enter a code issued via a text, an app or dedicated device, in addition to the correct password.

Do Secure Your Network

That “free” hotspot is tempting. But nothing in life is truly free. Many ask you to register your email address and then hit you with spam. Some are not secure, deliberately or accidentally. Tempting as it may be, use secure mobile data, a Wi-Fi analyzer to assess the network or a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to “scramble” your internet signals.

If you must jump on to a hotspot unprotected, avoid open networks (no password requirement), check with the proprietor to ensure the SSID is not being spoofed, light up a firewall, and limit your online traffic to the essentials.

Make sure your system OS (Operating System), software, apps, anti-virus and anti-malware are all up to date.

Do Consider Alternatives

PayPal and similar services put ‘distance’ between your credit card and the merchant. Many credit card companies offer excellent alternatives like ‘disposable’ card numbers and secondary PIN verification for transactions.

Don’t Email/IM Credit Card Info

This advice has been repeated over and over and over again. Yet we keep doing it. Never, never send your credit card number, expiration date and/or CIS, your PIN or your password via an email message or instant message (IM).

Even if you think your email account is impenetrable (and it is not), the recipient's account could be compromised leaving you exposed. It is just not worth it.

Don’t Auto Complete Card Numbers

Browsers, under the guise of being helpful, offer to auto-complete forms. It’s a great idea for when you type your name, not so much when typing your credit card information. Consider turning off this feature for all sensitive financial data and key in the numbers yourself.

In that same vein, don’t store your card information on the site. Many sites encourage you to create accounts (with your card information) to make future transactions easier. Don’t trade ease for security and opt, where possible, not to permanently hand over your account digits.

Don’t Respond to Suspect Email

This one is hard. Phishing emails are becoming more sophisticated and more difficult to spot. The email may appear to come from your bank, or your boss or your spouse and ask you to verify your information by clicking on a link. There are countless other scenarios that appear legitimate but are not. Don't assume the sender is who they say they are just because they have some information.

The bottom line, be VERY careful. Pick up the phone and call your financial institution, go directly to the official website and avoid clicking on the link, update your virus protection systems, never auto download attachments and be very suspicious of almost everything. Paranoid much? Perhaps. Protected? Definitely.

Don’t Withdraw Cash Unnecessarily

Aside from being hit with high fees for each withdrawal, you have to watch out for skimmers on ATMs, so the fewer trips to the ATM, the better.

Try to withdraw a little more cash than you immediately need, use your smartphone to make a video recording of the transaction, photograph and keep your receipt, only use well-lit ATM in high traffic/well-populated areas and inspect that machine before and after use. This, along with vigilant monitoring of your online statements, should help reduce the incidences of fraud.

Sources:
Daily Telegraph
Bank of America

Tech4Life airs on @RJR94FM every Tuesday morning at 8:15 am

How to Spot Fake News

2017-04-06T10:36:00.000-04:00

Sadly, fake news is not new; it’s just topical.

The internet has morphed what we once knew as propaganda into what we now call fake news by reducing the cost, time and possible litigation related to creating and disseminating intentionally deceptive, biased or blurred truth stories. Wow; that was a lot to say. Fake news is, after all, a complicated affair.

For this discussion, I am not including deliberate and obvious satire like The Onion, but rather the divisive, intentionally misleading and potentially destructive lies masquerading as genuine news.

The growing problem of fake news proliferation is exacerbated by “the filter bubble”. Popular (social) media sites often employ algorithms to retain visitor interest by prominently posting content we like and burying posts we don’t. We are therefore responsible for our own “truth filter”.

We must employ our own “truth filter” and halt the spread of fake news. Excuses like, “I’m just passing it on as I get it” and "I'm not sure its true but sharing anyway," are just plain irresponsible.

The potential consequences are just too high. The well-cited story of the 2016 shooting up of the Comet Ping Ping pizzeria by a 28-year-old North Carolina man who was “self-investigating” a bogus news story about Hillary Clinton running a child sex abuse ring out of the location, is an excellent example of the real dangers of fake news.

More recently and closer to home, images of a woman’s body being cut open allegedly as part of a local organ theft ring were circulated widely via WhatsApp leading to wild conspiracy theories and fear. As it turns out, the video was taken from a 2014 autopsy video causing much distress to the young lady’s family.

Let us not be a party to these kinds of atrocities. Let’s spot and stop fake news!

Read Past the Headline

Headlines, by their very nature, are designed to draw us in. So too, the first paragraph is written to entice us to read further. If we stop there, we may not have the information necessary to effectively analyse the article. Often the body has little or nothing to do with the headline, has a disclaimer, has poor grammar indicating the information is not credible or has obvious clues the story is false.

Confirm Source, Date and Time

Some fake news sites try to fool us into believing the site is legitimate with official-sounding titles, copy cat URLs and look-alike pages. Check the source of the material very carefully. Take a moment to read the “About Us”. If the language is over the top, absent or poorly written, then the source is possibly not credible.

Take a good look at the dateline of the story and other date references. Some fake news stories and old stories or old content which have been regurgitated to appear “new”.

Questions Links, Sources, Quotes and Photos

Real journalists include citations, attribution and relevant images to enhance their stories. Fake news writers avoid citations; they don’t have credible sources, and they steal and reuse unrelated pictures to make their points. Be on the watch for these indicators.

Links to reference material litter real news stories. Follow the links used to support a story and make an evaluation if they are relevant. Look closely at the sources quoted, if any, in a story. Do a quick internet search of their name and title to determine if they have the requisite authority to make the statement or if their quote (or a similar quote) appears on trustworthy news sites. Finally, be sure that the image is related to the story and not just a picture transplanted from another place and time on the web page. Google offers a reverse image search to inform if the picture has been used elsewhere on the internet.

Determine Bias

Lots of websites have declared biases; some do not. But we need to know what we are dealing with. Peruse the site a news story appears on to see if there is an agenda they seem to be promoting and then, take the information presented with a tablespoon of salt.

Seek Corroboration

Before you take the first link as gospel, take a moment to find out if other news organisations are reporting the same news. Get the facts before you spread what's false!

If ever in doubt, visit the RJR News Centre for consistently credible news.

Sources

#MyBestAdvice for #GettingResults? #Focus.

2017-02-27T18:13:00.001-05:00

PSOJ Social Media Business Conference
‘Not just marketing’ How to get actual business results

#MyBestAdvice for #GettingResults? #Focus.

Social media is, as they say, ‘huge’. There are almost too many variables and parameters to consider. So don’t. Don’t spread yourself so thin that your massive efforts yield minimal results. Instead, #Focus.

Social media is a powerful, cost effective marketing tool. A well developed and executed social media plan can secure remarkable results. The first annual PSOJ Social Media Business Conference has laid out comprehensive case on the potential benefits of this still evolving promotional option. Participants will leave the Conference feeling empowered; ready to harness the power of ‘social’ to build brands and promote sales.

The best results come from a detailed plan, but you can hit the ground running if you stay focused on a trio of key factors: the message, the platform and the team.

Message
It seems obvious, yet lots of brands don’t focus on the message. Building a brand identify and leveraging that identity for reward is a comprehensive task. Advertising, corporate communications, branding, POS and yes, even social media MUST reflect the same core message.

Staying on message across various media formats requires both commitment and flexibility. In the case of commitment, a disjointed message can confuse and deter target audiences. Similarly for flexibility, the message must suit the medium; it must fit in the space.

Finding the balance between seemingly opposing requirements is an art.

Platform
Resources are always finite, so limit them to where they will be most impactful.

The Conference has offered up a plethora for social media platforms where targets lurk. The standard bearer Facebook and its baby, Instagram both have a significant portion of the limited attention of potential customers and consumers. Google+ has integrated their social media efforts into their flagship products. Twitter remains popular and SnapChat continues to gain ground. Then, let's not forget online services like YouTube and communications tools like WhatsApp that, technically, are not social media. But technicalities have little bearing on popularity.

Yet, there are many more platforms; some growing, some dying.

Unless your an international conglomerate, don't try to rule them all. Talk to customers, clients and colleagues; figure out which three are most prominent in your target network and then deploy your resources to those three.

Making a point beside fellow PSOJ Social Media Business Conference Panelist, Stacy Hines.

Team
The pre-Conference survey revealed that, "45% of respondents say that digital is their primary marketing channel; yet 53% of respondents said that it was less than 10% of their marketing budget." This is a shocking revelation.

You wouldn’t trust the execution of a multimillion dollar marketing campaign to interns, neither should you trust your multimillion dollar brand value to the inexperienced. Even new media requires some tried and true principles to be successful.

The social media strategist is an essential member of an organization. The social media department is a critical success competent. Hire the best to get the best results.

Embrace Retired Technology

2017-01-24T22:30:00.002-05:00

Perhaps you’re retired and have lots of time your hands. Maybe, you’ve been working your whole life and never took the time to take on tech. Whatever the circumstances, whatever your age, technology need not be daunting. In fact, it can be fun!

Jamaica National Pensioners Association AGM Presentation

The World Bank reports that the average Jamaican life expectancy is about 74 years of age. I’d hate to discredit the World Bank, but my own observations put the average about 10 years later than that. If I’m right (and I often am), you could live for 20 years between retirement and well, you get the point.

If you want to truly enjoy those 20+ years, focus on the things that can maintain, or better yet, improve your quality of life. Look out for the tools and experiences that help you stay in contact with family and loved ones, that help you stay healthy, stay in the know, stay financially fit and of course, stay independent.

Technology can help you stay.

Stay In Contact

The grandkids may be far away, but apps like Skype, FaceTime and WhatsApp make video conference as simple as pushing a button and talking face to face. No more lonely nights or weekends, no more boring conversations with fellow seniors. Retirees can feel like they are right there in the room.

Video gaming can be a natural extension of video conferencing. Take talk to the next level and learn how to really engage the rug rats on their level by mopping the floor with them (virtually speaking) in a online RPG (Role Player Game).

If the fam proves too busy to connect, consider connecting with a new job. Lots of seniors rejoin the workforce on a “limited” basis thanks to teleworking. Book editors, accountants and a host of service related professionals earn real money on their own time.

Stay Healthy

Sitting behind a desk, even for a short time, doesn’t contribute to your physical health. So, rather than sit, get up and go, with a fitness tracker and heart rate monitor, both paired with an app that automatically reviews data from the wearables and sets fitness goals based on your unique digital profile. It sounds like a lot, but it can work seamlessly once configured.

Machines in moderation - Skype in your personal physician to review the fitness data and goals, without ever having to leave the comfort of your home (or cruise or wherever).

Listen up, you can even upgrade your outdated hearing aids to custom moulded in ear monitors with on board Bluetooth. When my Dad had a private call on ‘speaker', thanks to his audio boosting, wireless ear pieces, I realized that he was hipper than me!

Being schooled by a tech savvy Jamaica National Pensioner

Stay in the Know

Speaking of hip, nothing is hipper than being able to participate in the water cooler (or now I guess it all happens on Facebook) conversation. Ditch the papers thrown at your front door and get online for a wider range of news. Take it a step further, get online for a course or degree. Like teleworking, online educations afford flexibility and low cost learning.

Stay Financially Fit

Costs become even more important on a fixed income. Save time, and most importantly money, by skipping the senior line in the bank in favour of banking and online bill payments. Monitor your statements for suspicious activities (and trends), send (or receive) money for the young ones and rack up savings with those loyalty cards and virtual coupons.

Just because you’ve got some time on your hands doesn’t mean you got money to waste.

Stay Independent

After all, you are smart and independent. Building on those traits, we can look out for consumer grade GPS trackers, heart rate/blood pressure monitors, self driving cars and smart homes reducing the need for personalized in home care while maximizing self-sufficiency.

Look forward to being older, its the time when you get to tech it easy and stay in life.

Tech4Life airs every Wednesday morning at 8:15 am on @RJR94FM

Footprinting Criminals

2017-01-17T21:15:00.001-05:00

Yup. You read that right. Not fingerprint, footprint.

Defining Your Digital Footprint

Your digital footprint, little crumbs left on the internet by your activities, is quickly become a useful tool for security agencies to track (or trap) you. Law enforcement officials comb through oodles of data generated from your browsing history, cell phone location history, social media feeds, purchasing habits and in some cases, even your email to build a unique digital profile of you.

Officials assess the volume, variety, veracity and velocity of the information gathered in building a detailed profile.

Using Your Digital Footprint

With that profile, officials (and marketers) can assess your proclivity to participate in criminal activities, build a case to prosecute you after the fact, and in some cases stop you from being a menace to society.

Not all the data generated and analysed is within your control. You interact with countless external databases which also collect and collate information on your patterns. Consider CCTV, police body cameras, licence plate readers, facial recognition and drone cameras. The Jamaican police have all these sources at their disposal. Even the once old school finger print has gone digital thanks to the Automated Finger Information System (AFIS).

Governments use legislation (like the Patriot Act in the US), government agencies use advanced software and local police use warrants to legitimately access to what once was your private data. Of course, in some cases coercion and deception are included in the tool kit.

Limiting Your Digital Footprint

And in many cases, “they” are getting exactly what they want. The sheer volume of data is a limiting factor; even with the most sophisticated algorithms, parsing through terabytes of data takes time and produces false results costing more time. End to end encryption for email and messaging, the dark web and increasing savvy internet users are also collectively slowing the data capture process; not to mention the (public) refusal of some tech companies to play nice and build back doors.

The adage, if you have nothing to hide means you have nothing to worry about, is simply not true. Data is data. It can be interpreted or manipulated in various ways. Protecting your data from rouge government agencies and corrupt law enforcement is just as important as protecting your data from criminals and the process is the same.

That said, that doesn’t mean that I advocate the hindrance of lawful searches to give aide to security professionals. It’s a complicated world. Someone else is watching your digital footprint right now, and you should be watching it too.

Tech4Life airs on @RJR94FM every Wednesday morning at 8:15 am.

Seven Must Know Facts about the Samsung Note 7 Recall

2016-09-30T00:28:00.000-04:00

I am a declared Apple Fanboy, but even I initially loved the Galaxy Note 7. And I was not alone. Early reviews of the device were VERY positive, to say the least. After all, the phone/tablet hybrid Android device with a highly functional, fully integrated S-Pen (stylus) combined design and performance into one powerful package. *slurps back drool*

But then, the first reports came in. Then a few more. And within weeks of its triumphant launch, the highly anticipated phablet sales were no more.

So, what went wrong and what do you need to know. Here’s a primer (so you can impress your friends).

1. What is wrong with the Samsung Galaxy Note 7?

In brief, they can blow up, literally. Due to a potential malfunction related to the charging of the Lithium-ion batteries which power the handset, the device may over charge, over heat and then combust into flames. This may occur even when the phone is off when charging.

2. How many Note 7’s had a problem? How much damage can a Note 7 cause?

Though no one knows exactly how many handsets were faulty, we do know that as many as 36 devices burned, exploded or otherwise combusted while charging. The reported damage ranged from mild to severe burns to the body and property damage (including one garage). In short, depending on when and where a faulty handset is changing, the damage can be extensive.

The Wall Street Journal

3. How do I know if my Note 7 is faulty, and if yes, what should I do?

At this point, it is better to assume that your brand new Note 7 may be faulty. Immediately switch off (power down the device) and don’t turn it on again. Then, return your Note 7 to the retailer for a replacement.

Replacement units have black sticker on the bar code portion of the box. There are changes to the display on the new units too. Per Samsung: The new green battery icon will be visible on: 1) the Status Bar; 2) the Always On Display screen; and 3) the Power Off prompt screen, which can be accessed by long-pressing the power key.

4. Were there reports of Note 7 spontaneous combustion in Jamaica?

The Note was introduced in ten countries at launch, Jamaica was not one. So the device was not available from authorized dealers locally. Fortunately, there have also been no local reports of damage.

5. What is Samsung doing about the problem?

The South Korean manufacturer issued an unprecedented recall of all 2.5 million handsets globally. Hardware and software changes were effected and for those who have not participated in the recall, Samsung is attempting to use software updates to cap charging at 60%.

6. Are the new Note 7’s now safe?

The jury is still out. Sadly, there have been reports of the “safe” Note 7’s experiencing the same problems in China and South Korea. Be safe and wait for the ashes to settle, so to speak.

7. Has there been anything like this before?

Lithium-ion batteries are great, but they can present problems with overheating, especially in devices without a cooling fan like a phone or hover board. Last Christmas, airlines banned the self-propelled, self-balancing scooter board after numerous reports of fires and explosions.

Bonus: Are other Samsung devices safe?

Yes. No. Chances are, yes. Though there has been the errant report or two of problems with the flagship Samsung Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge, there is nothing to suggest that other Samsung devices suffer the same glitch as the Note.

Social Stardom In a Real Sense

2016-06-29T08:00:00.000-04:00

Event organizers Corve DaCosta and Shane Bennett

The irony is, it took a social media event for me to meet a social media star.

Thanks to Digital Media Week Jamaica #DMWJamaica, I was able to meet in person and physically mingle with a few social media stars that I follow or converse with regularly.

#DMWJamaica is an “unconference” that seeks to share social success stories and highlight Jamaicans excelling in the social media space. The four-day series of events included a panel discussion at the trendy ATL Showroom on Tuesday, June 29, 2016.

RJR’s own Krystal Tomlinson, a star in her own right across multimedia media formats, hosted the panel on The New Rules of Social Stardom. The group of experts included “certified student” @OneRomone, multi-tasker @NicoleMcLarenCampbell, fitness and nutrition expert @IAMKimilaMcDonald and transformational coach @PatriceJWhite.

#DMW Panelists Kimila McDonald, Nicole McLaren-Campbell, Romone Robinson, Krystal Tomlinson (Host) and Patrice White.

Real is often overused these days, but “real” is exactly how the conversation is best described. The presenters were revealing and raw while sharing their personal experiences, challenges, and successes. Here's an interesting point, their least favourite platform: Snapchat.

The panel was preceded by an eye-opening keynote by Dr. Anissa Holmes of Jamaica Cosmetic Dental Services. The audience who clearly had a preference for Instagram (IG) was schooled in benefits of Facebook. Dr. Holmes opening discussed her methodology and impressive returns on her investment in the platform.

Dr. Anissa Holmes

She clearly illustrated the power and potential of the world’s most successful social media network and provided tips on how others good navigate the platform for their own success. Notable, she said, “You have to have your business right first!” Social media can’t make a business better, more efficient, or more appealing. Start with a good business model and then leverage social media to draw attention, engagement and profits to that model.

#DMWJamaica continues with a Women in Digital Tech charity event this evening at the Courtyard by Marriott. Congrats to @CorveDaCosta, @iamsgb and the team for a stellar event.

Tech4Life airs on @RJR94FM.com every Wednesday morning at 8:15 am.

T4L: Pass On Passive Passwords

2016-06-22T08:00:00.000-04:00

Advisory: Change all your critical account passwords (email, bank, social media) immediately and often.

I agree, it is troublesome to come up with complex and unique passwords for every online account or service (in my case, 82 and counting), but I believe (from anecdotal experience only thank God) that it is less troublesome than having your data, PC, money and or identity stolen, held at ransom, revealed or deleted.

The Problem
So, here is the background, way back (in tech terms at least) in 2012, there was a data breach. LinkedIn, Tumblr, MySpace (remember them?) and other sites were hacked, releasing some 117 million login details including passwords into the wild. I can’t say why the data remained underground so long; I can say, however, that the data is available for sale and is being sold to some bad people (yup, that is a technical term).

This affects you (and me), if you haven’t changed your password in a couple of years or if you re-use passwords across different platforms. The hackers are, right this minute, using the data to attack your accounts. And, they have succeeded. High profile celeb accounts like Mark Zuckerberg's were among those compromised this week. Think about it, he’s one of the world’s greatest programmers, and he was hacked. Still feel you’re immune?

The Option
You can check if you've been compromised at: haveibeenpwned.com, but personally, I’m busy. So, I’d rather skip this step, assume all old passwords have been compromised and set new ones. Even “the leader of the free world” resets his nuclear launch codes periodically, why can’t you reset a few passwords?

So real is the threat, that several sites forced subscribers to reset their passwords to gain access. They completely denied access with old passwords. Why not take their lead and take a moment to reset all your passwords.

The Solution
Before you start to complain about the brain power required to compute and mentally store scores of unique passwords, consider a password manager. Check out cross-platform options like 1Password and LastPass. Apple ecosystem dwellers can rely on Keychain. Trust me, this is not the time to skimp; pay for the best service you can afford and enjoy convenient features and options.

While you're at it, going through all your accounts individually and setting up UNIQUE passwords for EACH account, why not take another moment to enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on every account that supports it. Recently Google made 2FA simpler and other will follow suit, but that is for another post.

The combination of strong, unique passwords and 2FA is , currently, the best protection against hacking.

Tech4Life airs every Wednesday morning at 8:15 am on @RJR94FM

T4L: Long Time Expected (LTE)

2016-06-15T08:00:00.000-04:00

At long last, Jamaica has LTE. Well, Jamaican cities at least.

Digicel rolled out its LTE (Long Term Evolution) network (June 9, 2016). Billed as up to 10 times faster than 4G, Digicel customers are now able to access LTE speeds in the Kingston and St. Andrew Corporate Area and Montego Bay.

LTE is already commonplace in first world countries like the US and the UK. It is also commonplace in some Digicel markets around the region. Digicel even sells LTE enabled phones! But it’s delayed introduction is due to … well, that depends on who you ask.

Digicel’s official response given at the pre-launch event in their super cool video conferencing room (more on that in another piece) was spectrum. Digicel only recently acquired the 700 MHz spectrum required to provide LTE; by recently I mean April of last year. They then spent US$50 million dollars to deploy LTE across Jamaica (but only available across the cities for now) as a part of their “Network for the Future” commitment. In a release, the company noted that “the 700 MHz band - globally recognized as the best spectrum for deploying the technology because of its superior in-building coverage and wider signal reach when compared to similar frequencies”.

The on-site speed tests were truly impressive with up and (wait for it) down speeds exceeding 20 Mbps with up speeds approaching 40 Mbps. I can’t wait to see how that translates in the real world when 1.4 million smartphone users jump on the network. Notably, Digicel Jamaica CEO David Butler promised that Digicel will not throttle speeds.

Others speculated (openly) that the timing of the introduction had more to do with competition (read: Caricel). FLOW has also announced plans to roll out nationwide LTE. But for now, their LTE offering appears limited to Carlton.

But, back to Digicel. Despite my best efforts, I wasn’t able to pin down Butler to a specific timeline for the island-wide coverage, though before the end of the year would be a safe bet. No news yet on plans for the existing 4G network which powers several Digicel branded modems like the MiFi and CPE models, to the potential new LTE modems.

Anyway, enough about the politics and technicality. Widely available LTE means that us data hogging, tech savvy Jamaicans can join our first world counterparts in enjoying all the trappings of social media, video streaming, live video casting, real-time ultra-fast gameplay and countless other distractions that our mobile gadgets and gizmos provide.

Apps like Periscope may explode as Jamaicans live cast football matches and dances. Netflix need not be limited to WiFi making it practical to watch a movie while sitting in traffic on a bus. What of Digicel Play and 1SpotMedia? You can now watch the news on our handset without buffering. In the city at least.

I say you, and not we, because, despite my best efforts, I wasn’t able to activate LTE on my business phone. Sure, Digicel is offering lots of prepaid and postpaid packages to suit various lifestyles, but I’ve got to wait for my rep to complete the activation.

Not to worry. I can’t wait to get on LTE, and as soon as I am live, I’m likely to be buried in my phone.

Tech4Life airs on @RJR94FM every Wednesday morning at 8:15 AM

T4L: I want my own Alfred

2016-05-25T19:04:00.000-04:00

You could be a mogul running a multi-million dollar global enterprise. Or, you could be a mom with three kids. Either way, you’d probably like to have an assistant.

An assistant can be a life saver. The best assistants are great at managing your appointments and taking notes. They are always available and accurate. And they always expensive!

Well, perhaps not.

Siri, Cortana, Alexia and the androgynous Google Now are virtual assistances immediately available for hire and they are free - if you have the accompanying expensive hardware.

Each service can provide (now) basic information on weather, directions, and reminders. Many can search for trivia and control phone functions. For way cool Star Trek: The Next Generation like control over your home, pair up your virtual assistant with some third party, IOT enabled devices and never press a button again to turn on your lights.

If an investment of a few thousand dollars to pimp out your house to have a conversation with your phone doesn’t entice you, at least you can still put your “free” virtual assistant to work to give you location based reminders, tell you a joke or read your email and text messages out loud.

Ironically, Facebook is the last to market with a virtual assistant, trending behind Apple, Microsoft, Amazon and Google. But, FB is not far behind with recent announcements of their own assistant to come to wild later this year.

You don’t have to wait. Hire an assistant right now.

Tech4Life airs on @RJR94FM every Wednesday morning at 8:15 am.

T4L: Hybrid Hit Home

2016-05-05T08:00:00.000-04:00

The three-day spectacle was an assault on the senses. Everywhere you turned, there was something to look at, hear, touch or taste at the clearly successful Jamaica Expo.

The tiny but tallawah Amber Connect device was great. The potentially transformational JUTC Smarter Card was encouraging. But, Kelly Tomlin’s personal car parked perched on a platform the centre of the arena for the JPS booth was, without a doubt, the most ogle-worthy display at Expo.

Yes, her personal car. A shiny Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV hybrid ramped yup the previously muted discussion on the viability and practically of electrics cars on local roadways.

By all reviews and Tomlin’s own, the car is more than adequate to the task of navigating our notorious potholes and hilly interior. The 2L 16 valve in-line 4-cylinder engine pushes the SUV from zero to 62 mph in a comfortable 11 seconds.

The vehicle charges overnight in a special outlet which, I am told, is easy to install. JPS has indicated that they plan to roll out changing stations across the Corporate Area (and perhaps to major towns). But, really, charging stations are moot for this hybrid that can self-charge on gas.

On a full charge, you can expect to drive upwards of 32.5 miles. For me, that’s more than enough to go to and from work or for errand runs on a Saturday. Respectable. You can also expect 148 MPG. 148 MPG with today’s gas prices means that you’ll spend more on the concert ticket than the gas for your next trip to MoBay!

Tomlin joined a handful of drivers who didn’t wait for government incentives to bring in her environmentally friendly car. Are you ready to join in?

Tech4Life airs every Wednesday morning at 8:15 am on @RJR94FM.

T4L: No Cash? Get Smart-er

2016-04-27T19:40:00.000-04:00

The Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC) offered its own impressive showing with a booth to pitch its “Smarter Card”.

The Smarter Card is a cashless payment system for public buses, much like the Metro Card used in the US subway systems. The standard sized plastic card is embedded with an NFC chip which keeps the cardholders basic data and payment history. The card is “topped up” at designated areas, including the “pop up top up” station at Expo Jamaica. The topped up card is then tapped on the validator located in the bus to effect payment for the bus fare. Simple. Elegant. Yet not fully adopted.

At the Expo and elsewhere, the public has free access to the JUTC Smarter Card; that means that all money “credited” the card immediately reflects on the account, in full. As an additional incentive, Smarter Card users get Magna Rewards benefits when they tap. Yet, still, not fully adopted.

Though the JUTC has attempted a cashless transit system many times, commuters are not warming to the idea as quickly as they would like. The benefits of the system, like similar systems used all over the world, are too numerous to list here. The limitations of the system, however, are not.

I can’t wait to see the system expand to offer convenient online and ATM top up like Highway 2000 East West Tags or mobile provider credit. The top-up locations, though growing, are still limited resulting in long lines at some locations. Bulk top - facilitating employers to deploy benefits and transport allowances directly to cardholders - is another feature that could boost adoption.

The Smarter Card is a great initiative; let’s hope it lives up to its potential sooner rather than later.

Tech4Life airs every Wednesday at 8:15 am on @RJR94FM

T4L: Amber Lit Up Expo Jamaica

2016-04-20T08:00:00.000-04:00

AMB 365

If there were a Best In Show Award - Technology category and the immensely successful Expo Jamaica, Amber Connect would have won, hands down!

It was a small booth, tucked away in a corner. You could have missed it. Thankfully, I did not.

On show was Amber Connect’s Vehicle Tracker - little but Talawah.

So, like many other trackers, the devices (they have a range), track several vehicle metrics, including movement to provide security, enhance fuel efficiency and, quite frankly, rack up “cool” points with friends and family.

Once installed, you can track your car via the cross-platform app or web portal in real time. Listen close, ‘cause this is important. Amber’s real time is not every 15 minutes; Amber’s real time is every five seconds via an on-board data connection. The one-year subscription included in the one-time installation fee translates to no monthly charges.

Amber can monitor fuel efficiency (or lack thereof) and provide actual mileage costs. It can create safe zones for kids, employees or even for family members borrowing the car. It offers remote shut off to cut off thieves (or rogue family members) in their tracks and remote start, an uncommon feature in similar systems. Get speed alerts or device tamper alerts right from the unit to your mobile device or send a collision alarm to prescribed contacts in case of an accident.

The ultra-discrete device is not visible from the battery making it even harder to detect and harder to disable or remove. The best part is, your reduced insurance premiums may just cover the full cost of the installation. With that, Amber just got a green light.

Tech4Life airs every Wednesday morning at 8:15 am on @RJR94FM