Page 44 - Commentator_Jul/Aug2017
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MEEK GEEKS                                                                Ray Rose, 941-639-5056, esorrose@msn.com



                                    This summer many of the safety and travel rules have changed. One of the biggest
                                    changes is in air travel. Be prepared to have your laptop and tablet not permitted in carry
                                    on and moved to bay baggage. The largest electronics permitted in the passenger cabin
                                    may be your cellphone. Electronics carried in the cargo bay must be well protected from
                                    rough handling. Also check your passport to be sure it covers your travel period plus three
                                    or six months after your return and you have any required travel visas. Before you travel
                                    check your communication services to be sure you have the most reliable and economical
                                    service for your digital devices.

         Many of your devices will be stored in the cargo hold. Not only is there an increased risk of damage but also theft of
         information. Under no circumstances do you want to store your password directory in the same area as your devices.
         You should also consider a password protection program that generates random passwords for your accounts. Access is
         granted through the master program and must have a strong unique master password. The concern with this approach is
         if you compromise the master password all your data is at risk. These cautions also apply if you leave your computer
         open in a room when you go out or leave a copy of the master password in the area.

         When charging devices using a USB port, check the charging rate of the port. There is often a low charging rate for cell
         phones and a faster one for tablets and larger devices. You may wish to test your battery in an older device to see its
         remaining storage capacity and consider replacing it or purchasing an external battery pack.

         Finally, if you receive a call or email from Microsoft or other related service that you have a major problem and they need
         to scan your computer, disconnect. If you inadvertently allow them to scan your computer and it locks up until you pay a
         service fee, disconnect the computer at the power source. If it’s a laptop, remove the battery and then restart the device.
         Hopefully you will have your computer fully operational.

         Over the summer, there may be increased activity to compromise our communication and other devices. Be extremely
         cautious not only with your digital devices but banking, Rx services, and personal safety.




                                                                         NEED ASSISTANCE WITH
                                                                                   A MOVING
                                                                             OR ESTATE SALE?

                                                                             Jean Pollak, 941-639-7969


                                                                         THE ISLES GIRLS & GUYS
                                                                         ASSISTANCE PROGRAM...

                                                                 Started over 25 years ago and has been one of
                                                                 PGICA's most successful volunteer programs. Their
                                                                 original goal was, and still is, to provide a service to
                                                                 members by holding estate
                                                                 and moving sales. Buyers
                                                                 are responsible for removal
                                                                 and transportation of all
                                                                 purchased items.

                                                                 The Isles Girls and Guys do
                                                                 it all.  All proceeds from the
                                                                 sale are presented to the
                                                                 homeowner who in turn
                                                                 donates 20% to the
                                                                 PGICA.

                                                                 Visit www.pgica.org for  up-to-date information on
                                                                 current sales dates.



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