Voices in Technology

Secure VOIP Business Phone Systems are Available

mike — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 10:39:04 +0000

If the CIA and Sony’s Playstation networks can be hacked, then it is pretty obvious our VOIP (Voice/Video Over Internet Protocol) business phone systems are at risk. Business is using VOIP communications like never before. There are those that will tell you using a VOIP phone system will mean we are at more risk than ever, but is this really the case? Our normal phone lines have been listened in, and on, by governments, police and other organisations for a long time. There is little we can do about protecting them. At least with VOIP communications, we have a chance at protecting ourselves, and we can make those changes and decisions ourselves. If you have a business phone system, you should make sure your vendor is keeping you up-to-date with the latest in security improvements. I, for one, would much prefer to use a VOIP communication tool (on a dedicated server) compared with a standard phone call. Here is a look at some security features you should understand with your applications running from dedicated server hosting.

Encryption. Encryption should be standard with your application and set-up on digital phone systems. Even Skype uses encryption. It is hard enough to listen in on a Skype call, let alone other more sophisticated encryption tools. Ask your vendor about your encryption level, and always ask for more. They might be supplying you with standard levels of encryption, but extremely high levels are available.

VPN, TLS, SIP. Standard security encryption methods like a VPN (Virtual Private Network), TLS (Transport Layer Security), and SIP (Session Initiation Protocol), all need to be a part of your system. Essentially, they hide your location, secure the data transit of your calls, and assist with the cloaked (or quiet) establishment of your VOIP call.

Dedicated Managed Server. To be really safe, you need your calls to be going through your own dedicated servers. If you have a VOIP provider, you will probably be using theirs, and they should know what they doing. Find out all information about where your server is, how it is built, and obtain full hardware descriptions. You should ask for verification, and you need proof. If you have just installed software on your computer, you could be using one or many servers to transmit your calls. The technology levels of these protocols is increasing all the time, and staying up to date is important.

Password Management. Passwords are one of the most common problems with VOIP systems, as they are with all accounts, and other online services. You must change your password monthly. It should not be easily quested. Someone near you could be accessing your system without you even knowing.

Firewall. The firewall is like, well a firewall. It stops a fire from entering your place of business. Even when you are using your computer at home, you should always have it on. The firewall attempts to stop anyone using your computer at a distance without your approval. There are specialised resources on the internet to help you understand. If it is not on, then you are wide open for attack.

Disabling. If you are not using some services (features) of your VOIP system, make sure you turn them off. Running features are some of the best ways for unwanted entry to your VOIP system. Talk to your provider, and see what they have to say.

Wifi. Wifi means you are more open to attack, more than before. Wifi systems need to be secured with a password, and it is better to use secure encryption, for the transmission of that password when you log on, and securing the data floating through the air.

The list of security options continues. And continues to get better all the time. Keep your standard phone line and your VOIP lines separate, and make sure you are up to day with the latest in VOIP encryption. If you don’t understand all the types of security needed, then you have a problem with your vendor, because they should have told you in the first place. If you have what is available on the market, there is no way anyone can listen in on what you are talking about. If you are small target, it is only someone who is surfing ports (and just happens to bump into you) that can sneak through your protection. Unless you are a drug dealer, or a spy in another country, you do not have much to worry about.

How to (legally) get your music for free

mike — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 06:54:34 +0000

Currently, the world economy is facing troubled times. Many people can no longer afford the essentials, let alone unnecessary entertainment. Families must turn to other family members, cash advanced companies and services that provide online loans just to pay their bills.

During a time like this, activities such as watching television or listening to music might seem like a waste of time and money. However, these things are more important than ever right now.

It is essential that we have enough energy and hope to pull ourselves out of this mess. If being entertained gives us the boost that we need, then entertainment is necessary.

One of the best ways to unwind and think about something other than money is to listen to music. This can be a problem, however, because music is not typically free!

Fortunately, there are many ways in which you can enjoy listening to music online for free. So, you will not have to use the money from your online loans to pay for it.

One of the easiest ways to listen to music for free is by searching for a particular song or artist on YouTube. Although YouTube is known for videos, it also has music.

You can access YouTube on most smartphones and you can create playlists that will automatically load one song after the other. So, for example, you can choose “work playlist” and listen to a specific list while you work.

The best part about YouTube is that it is completely free and easy to use! You will have to watch advertisements prior to videos from time to time, but they are relatively short in length.

Another service that is free to use is Pandora. Pandora prides itself on its ability to predict what kind of songs you like. It also has a rating system so that it can learn about your musical tastes as you listen.

You cannot pick a particular song to listen to with Pandora, but if you type in a song or artist name, it will play songs that are similar to that style. Sooner or later, it will usually end up playing the song you chose to begin with.

Pandora does have ads to keep it free, but you can upgrade by paying a small fee. After purchasing this upgrade, you will no longer have to listen to ads.

Last.fm is another great service that is free to use. You can choose specific songs from a large selection using Last.fm. So chances are, if there is a specific song you want to hear, you can search for it and listen right away. This site allows you to create lists of the songs that you listen to most and, using this data, it recommends other music that you might also like.

Last.fm also has ads that play every once in a while, but you can pay a small fee to get rid of these ads if they really bother you.

The first step to listening to music for free is to try out these websites and see which one you like best. Pretty soon, you’ll be sitting back, listening to music, feeling good about how much money you have saved and how much longer your online loans are going to last.

What is Alarm Monitoring?

mike — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 16:15:19 +0000

Alarm monitoring is a vital part of home security systems. It refers to monitoring of alarm systems, such as fire alarms, at a central location. Monitoring of alarm signals can be via internet protocol (IP) or by other technology. Effective monitoring of alarms can lead to prompt apprehension of a criminal or prevention of crime.

1. What is a Monitored Alarm?

A monitored alarm is one which is tracked at a central location. It can be installed at a home or a business area. When activated, the alarm sends a signal to a central control area where action can be taken. The response depends on the cause of the alarm and may involve sending a patrol or notifying the owners of the alarm.

2. Types of Monitored Alarms

Monitored alarms can be of various types. Smoke alarms are often monitored in areas with high risk of fire. This reduces the incidence of smoke damage to stock. It also reduces chances of injury to occupants of the building. Home security systems often have intruder alarms which are monitored. These reduce the prospect of theft. Watched alarms in a shop or on a factory floor can reduce internal fraud or theft by employees.

3. How do Monitored Alarms Work?

Monitored alarm systems work by sending a signal to a central location where a response is devised. The signal can be sent by telephone signalling or other systems such as Internet Protocol (IP) or GPS. There are various advantages and disadvantages to each signalling system. IP signalling can have problems with reliability of connection, telephone signalling can be expensive and GPS sometimes inaccurate. The type of signal appropriate for each business or home will vary according to individual requirements and type of alarm.

4. Why Have a Monitored Alarm?

Central alarm monitoring is an essential part of an effective security system. Most people ignore unmonitored alarms. For example, a sounding car alarm is likely to be ignored in the immediate neighbourhood. A monitored alarm, however, will not be ignored, as there is always a staff member watching and ready to respond.

The fact that an alarm is present will deter a criminal from targeting premises. Monitoring increases apprehension of criminals and therefore discourages criminal activity.

5. Advantages of Monitored Alarms.

Monitored alarm systems ensure that an activated alarm will have a response. The response can vary according to business or resident requirements. Some advantages of monitored alarms are the speed of response and the capability to distinguish false alarms. Another advantage is the higher rates of deterrence and apprehension. A criminal who knows they are being watched is less likely to commit a crime and more likely to be caught if they do. An alarm monitored for 24 hours a day, 7 days a week is more effective than an unmonitored alarm.

Monitored alarms systems are very useful for protection of home and business premises. Developing technology has increased their efficiency. They are effective tools for deterrence and apprehension of criminals and provide safety and security for property and person.

Small Business Computer Networking: 3 Reasons Why You Need Support

mike — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 09:00:01 +0000

Just because you are a small business now, does not mean you should not seriously consider computer network support. The sharing of information has become crucial to business. There are many in small business who think they are too small to get reliable computer support. This is not the case. There are a number of companies that specialise in dealing with small business. There are basically 3 types of networks. There is peer-to-peer, such as used by Skype users (most without knowing), client-server based models (the most common in business), and terminal based access. You need to prepare your business to handle each of these. How good is your network? Do you even know? Here are some of the important issues to consider.

Client-Server. Client-Server does not mean your customer, it means personal computers accessing information from a server. This is the best way for your company to operate, and is the most popular with business today. You will probably hit this type of network in some way or another when you are dealing with clients, now and in the future. Your computers will all need to be up-to-date. Setting this type of system up will mean your information is secure and stays on one computer (server). Specialists in network support provide the best of these systems. By having your own client-server based system, you will better understand the issues when one of your clients asks you to access their server.

Peer-to-Peer. This is the most commonly used type of network in small business. Essentially, there is no server or central computer. This model is often too simplified if your business is going to expand. It is often very insecure, and means that all computers can access each other. You can turn the access of, but then you will need to use email just to send someone something in your own office. At the same time, peer-to-peer sharing over the internet can be very useful and will require some specialist applications.

Terminal Access. This is a very tricky area of networking. Essentially we need to use sophisticated software programs that emulate ‘old fashioned’ terminals. Even though it is 2011, there are still many companies that are using older mainframe computers built back in the 70’s. To access the data on those large mainframes, we need a Windows terminal emulator when we are using a Windows based personal computer, for example. If you are asked to use one of these applications to access a client’s database, make sure you get the right computer network support.

Having a permanent computer repairs and support provider for your small business makes real sense. Dealing with issues as they arise can be very costly. It is best you get the right support from the start, and future-proof your growth.

The ‘Grandparent Scam’ Gets a Reboot

mike — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 07:33:14 +0000

The one thing every parent fears is getting a call from a son or daughter who is away traveling, begging for help as they have gotten into trouble.

Yet the well-known Grandparent Scam is a twist on just that, with the fraudster telephoning the elderly relative and impersonating a grandchild who has gotten into serious problems while away and asking for money to be wired urgently.

Grandparents are particularly targeted by these kinds of hoaxes as many have more funds squirreled away than younger family members. For examples of the kinds of accounts suitable for putting money aside, click here.

In the past, the fraudsters have been relatively unsophisticated, holding little information about the person they were impersonating and using phrases such as “it’s me” or “it’s your favorite grandchild”, a ploy that frequently elicits a name from the relative at the end of the phone.

However, in the latest version of the scam, the fraudsters have become far wiser with many managing to obtain more information about the individual they are impersonating.

Much of this information can be gained from social media sites such as Facebook or Twitter which conmen of all kinds often use as a way of gaining trust.

The impersonators are also increasingly claiming they have been banged up in a jail in Mexico, which is why it is not possible to provide a number for a collect-call.

In some cases, relatives have questioned why the voice of their young loved one sounds different and been told that they either have a cold, or it’s because they have been crying.

While it is far easier said than done, if a phone call of this nature is received, it is imperative to stay calm and get as much information as you can to try to verify the identity of the caller.

It is also important that you do not give out any further details and do not wire any money until you are certain that the caller really is who they say they are.

If they are unable to provide a contact telephone number, find out where they say they are and ring the place directly; even jails have a telephone number that can be easily found by the operator.

The caller is likely to impress the urgency of the request, a move designed to pressurize the individual into abandoning logical thought and simply pay up. Taking the time to check with other family members is always advised.

However, one of the best safeguards to set up against this type of eventuality is a codeword that is known only by the family and no one else, that is to be used if problems are ever encountered.

While it may fall on deaf ears, urging younger generations in the family to restrict access to their social media accounts so only those accepted as ‘friends’ can see their information is also a good step.

If you suspect you may have been targeted as part of a scam, it is important to report it, even if you did not send any money.

By letting the authorities know the details, you may be able to prevent other people from experiencing the scam, as publicity about the scam often acts as a great deterrent.

5 Tips for Safe Online Ordering

mike — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 07:56:58 +0000

Many businesses prefer online ordering of print materials for economic and productivity reasons. Online ordering through printing services can save time and money and business card printing through an internet service is very efficient. It is important, however, to ensure that the process of online ordering is secure so that the business does not incur a loss.

1. Characteristics of Safe Ordering Pages

When ordering online it is important that the service provider uses SSL encryption. This is a security component which protects credit card and business information over the internet. To check that the website is using SSL encryption, the user should look for letters, ‘ https:’, on the ordering page. Common web pages have ‘http’, the ‘https’ pages are special security pages. The‘s’ stands for secure.

In addition, most web browsers have a small closed padlock that appears at the bottom of the screen. If the padlock is not closed, the site is not secure and no confidential information should be input on the page. These basic page characteristics are vital for secure online ordering.

2. Use Different Passwords

Many online service providers ask for users to provide a name and password. Mixing these is an important security measure when doing business online. Do not use confidential passwords such as bank passwords at any site other than the bank. A record of passwords should be kept in a secure place in case of mistakes, fraud or forgetfulness.

3. Do not Reply to Unsolicited Emails

Unsolicited emails may appear to be from reputable sites, but often they are scams. Do not order from unsolicited emails and never open an exe file on an email. If the email seems to be suspicious, check with the original site, but do not use links in the email to open it. These emails can carry viruses that destroy software and hardware.

4. Using Credit or Debit cards

Many online companies, such as printing services, offer credit and debit card facilities. For many businesses, using credit cards is more effective because banks provide insurance policies for fraudulent sales. For example, a bank may refund monies paid by credit card if the number has been misused.

Other businesses prefer using debit cards, because the funds are immediately deducted from the bank account. This can make budgeting easier in tough times. The choice is an individual one, but a reputable online business should offer both options.

5. Tracking the Online Order.

One major advantage of online ordering is the ability to track orders. For example, the progress of business card printing can be seen by logging into the printer’s website. This enables businesses to plan and budget more effectively. Tracking also provides a record of purchase and delivery which protects vendor and consumer. A legitimate online service provider will have a comprehensive tracking service and a clear complaints procedure.

Online ordering is a process which enhances productivity and efficiency. Ensuring security in the process is vital in business transactions. It is important to look for encryption signs on the page when ordering. Checking the tracking service and refusing to open unsolicited emails can protect a business from fraud and consequent loss.

Online banking – do you feel secure?

mike — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 05:27:54 +0000

In the modern world, speed and convenience is king and when it comes to banking, this means online access is one of the fastest growing methods of conducting transactions.

It is possible to manage all kinds of accounts over the Internet. Everything from a current account to a savings account such as an ISA are suitable, with more and more people shunning conventional ways of banking.

However, banking online is not without its risks and a lack of awareness of how hackers and thieves work can result in all your savings being drained from your ISA quicker than you can blink.

It is therefore essential to understand the tricks that fraudsters use to try and gain unauthorized access to your ISA and current account online, so you stand a better chance of identifying when you have been targeted.

Online fraud these days is sophisticated and relies on a number of different methods. Some of these involve sending viruses into your computer to effectively peer over your shoulder while you enter your password and send the information back to the hacker.

An indication that your computer may have been infected includes unusually slow response times as well as lots of pop-ups appearing. Anything out of the ordinary that keeps occurring could mean something has invaded your PC.

In order to protect the money in your ISA, if you have any suspicion at all that your computer may be infected, do not access your bank account and get an expert to check it over.

Basic steps that should always be taken include purchasing anti-spyware and anti-virus software for your computer and keeping it up to date as well as installing a firewall.

WiFi networks should also be password protected to prevent casual access or someone sitting at the end of your road piggy-backing onto your account for free.

With so many passwords needed to access Internet accounts, many users make the mistake of having a favorite access code and using it for everything. If this is hacked the consequences could be disastrous, as the fraudster will essentially be given free rein over all aspects of your life, from your Facebook account to your ISA.

Another common trick that fraudsters employ is sending an apparently authentic email to the account holder from their bank, asking them to log on by clicking the link in the email.

Upon clicking the link, the user will be taken to a site that looks identical but the hacker will be able to see everything you type. On receiving an email supposedly from your ‘bank’ that requests you log into your account, ignore the link and access the page in the normal way instead. It would also be a good idea to either ring or mail your bank asking if the request came from them.

On the Internet, there are many banks to pick from and while it may be tempting to sign up with one that is offering great interest rates on an ISA, anyone offering terms that far outstrip everything else on the market should be viewed with extreme caution. Ensure that the bank is certified with FDIC before proceeding.

A number of organizations have increased their security, with the use of a specific pass key becoming more and more popular. Of course, the downside of this is that it means only being able to access your account when you have the device available.

Those who have been the victim of an online attack will testify that it only takes a moment of carelessness to let a hacker glimpse your log on details, which then leads to unlimited access to your ISA, savings and any other money in your bank account.

The potential threat from online fraudsters should not prevent you from banking on the Internet, but means you should always be aware of the steps you need to take to keep your account secure.

Protect Yourself Online

mike — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 08:14:50 +0000

Modern technology has certainly made our lives easier. It is so convenient to shop, search for jobs, buy a car or house and then do your research online to find the best loans or mortgage to use to pay for these things!

However, the Internet is a hotbed for individuals who want to steal your money and identity. Sometimes this is done in such a sophisticated way that it is hard to discern which sites are genuine.

Scammers and thieves are looking to access your information so that they can clean out your bank account, apply for credit and loans in your name and create other types of fraud.

It is a significant problem and the FBI has created a computer crimes division to help uncover and resolve cases. Their work remit includes cases related to identity theft, loans and credit card fraud and online child exploitation.

However, there are many scammers out there who use ingenious methods to access your details. One of the largest forms of fraud is a practice known as phishing.

Phishing is when an email is sent to an individual suggesting they have either won the lottery in another country or need your help to access an unclaimed inheritance.

It may say it is from your bank, credit card company or even the IRS regarding a tax refund. Historically, these emails have been easy to spot because the language used is clumsy and contains spelling and grammatical mistakes.

However, fraudsters are becoming more sophisticated and now reproduce logos of legitimate companies to try and gain your trust. The email also often contains an urgent call to action, suggesting that if you do not reply within 24 hours your bank account will be frozen or you will lose your prize or access to your loans.

The aim is to get you to panic and to respond without thinking about the information you are handing over. NEVER reply to these emails and do not send any information to anyone who appears suspect.

Do not click on the link within the email, as this will take you to a realistic looking but fraudulent site.

Call your bank or credit card company to ascertain if the email is real. If you feel unnerved by the situation, ask them to only ever telephone you if there is a problem, so that you know any emails are false.

Fraudsters and counterfeiters enjoy the anonymity of the Internet and will often set up online stores that look genuine. Many times these offer designer goods at discounted prices.

It may seem that these prices are too good to be true, which is exactly the case. If you input your credit card details to purchase from this store, you will find it is used for criminal purposes.

Always order from reputable sites only and if you have any doubts, consider the following questions. Does the site have a geographical position? Reputable retailers will display their contact details and it is not generally a P.O Box address.

Does the site have a clear domain name and offer a secure payment facility, which is often known as an encryption facility. Check it has the ‘https://‘ at the beginning of the domain name and at the bottom of the page with the padlock symbol.

If you are still unsure, do an online search to see any reviews or comments about the site. Whether you are buying a car, or applying for loans or shopping for designer clothes, remember your money and identity are precious and take all the necessary precautions to stay safe.

Are Smartphone Payments Ever Really Going to Take Off?

mike — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 12:26:07 +0000

It may sound like something out of a sci-fi television show, but using a handheld device to pay to purchases is not just in the near future, it’s happening right now.

Consumers can opt to forgo cash and credit cards at the register. Instead, they can pull out their smartphone and tap it on the retail store’s reader.

New smartphone apps are virtually turning your phone into a wallet. All of your existing credit card account numbers are stored in the smartphone to make them all easily accessible.

Aside from credit card numbers being stored in the smartphone, you can download coupons to the phone, apply for store loyalty cards and gift cards, credit cards and even credit cards for bad credit.

Retailers that are already implementing this technology have made it possible for customers to check their balances on their gift card, add more money to the balance and get loyalty status updates.

A smartphone transaction is simple enough. Where retailers offer the smartphone payment, there will be a special screen that welcomes smartphone payments at the point of sale.

You simply tap the screen and select your method of payment. The transaction is completed when you confirm the amount. Not only are retailers welcoming this new future, but banks, credit card companies, wireless providers and tech companies are all hoping for this digital future.

The problems with an age in which purchases are made with smartphones are obvious enough. Not everyone can afford a smartphone. Even those that can and currently own one may be wary of making purchases with them.

The thought of managing your entire financial existence from one device may seem convenient, but also a little scary. With this technology still in the experimental stage, it’s anyone’s guess as to how feasible it really is for wide use in the future.

Many people like the tangibility of cash and credit cards and old habits die hard. We’ve been pulling out cash and credit cards for generations and that behavior has been ingrained in us.

Physical methods of payment will also still be available even if your phone’s batteries die. There’s also the fear of losing a phone and being at risk of theft and a breach of privacy.

Although phones and applications can be protected with a password, most people don’t treat them with the same level of security as their wallets.

While it may be too early to tell if making payments with your smartphone will really take off, one thing’s for certain: you still need to have those plastic card account numbers to have them loaded into your phone.

In a down-turned economy, most people are trying to manage their finances more responsibly and avoid credit card debt. For these people, smartphone app technology may be one of the last things on their minds.

Bad credit credit cards are available, however, but it’s a good idea to learn to manage the physical plastic cards, especially credit cards for bad credit, before upgrading to a high-tech smartphone app.

Until retail merchants begin to accept this smartphone technology more widely, you’re probably better off keeping those credit cards and cash on hand.

Are We Trapped in a New Tech Bubble?

mike — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 08:25:32 +0000

A tech bubble may be defined as a definitive rise in the market directly related to technology stocks. A tech bubble also includes a quick rise in the price of shares of tech stocks.

The previous tech bubble we experienced, better known as the “dot-com” bubble, started to boom from approximately 1995 until it busted, around 2000.

The technology that we are currently witnessing take off is almost entirely related to the internet advertising industry.

Websites such as Facebook, Groupon, Zynga, Zillow, Twitter and Google make the bulk of their money from advertising dollars.

The value of these companies ranges from $750 million (for Groupon) to $100 billion dollars (for Facebook). They have all experienced rapid growth over the course of the past five years.

Just how much growth, you may ask? Are they worth their predicted value? Are they profitable, making them an attractive, sound investment? Many financial experts say no.

These same companies are still privately owned, although there has been much talk about when they will go public and how much their initial offering of shares will cost.

For a true tech bubble to exist, the public must be investing in the technology companies. At this point and time, that is generally not the case.

The current state of the world’s less than ideal economy is certainly not ripe for overvalued IPOs (Initial Public Offerings).

With Americans experiencing high rates of unemployment, as well as staggeringly low rates of job growth and a housing industry that is now undoubtedly down the pan, the chances that Americans will be able, or willing, to invest in what may be speculated to be overvalued internet sites, are rather unlikely.

With the housing and mortgage crisis still in full effect, Americans are cutting back and spending less. Many homeowners are finding themselves unable to maintain their mortgage payments and are forced to sell or have the bank foreclose on the home.

For sellers, the popular website Zillow lists sales and value data bout comparable homes in a specific area. For those who still own their home, a mortgage repayment calculator may assist in determining how much you owe on your home as well as when you will be able to pay off your mortgage loan completely.

If a mortgage repayment calculator is not of use, there are several other tools available online that can assist in debt and loan repayment.

Before running out to invest in the newest tech IPO, do your research. Ask yourself a few important questions before shelling out your hard earned money. Is the stock really worth the price? Will it hold its value over time? Is the company profitable currently? Does the company have experienced leadership that will continue to lead the company into the black?

If the answer to any of those questions is unclear or negative, it may be best to invest your money elsewhere. If you can answer a resounding yes to all of the above, by all means, invest away!