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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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