Skip to main content
search
All Posts By

robintek

Apr 02
Love0

Getting Software Safely

By Cyber Security Awareness
04-16-cyber-1Getting new software for the office can be a trying process. Top quality programs like Photoshop can be prohibitively expensive for a small business when you need to outfit your whole office, and the free stuff is a bit of a crap shoot. Obviously, we have to recommend against pirating. Individuals using Sony Vegas or Adobe Illustrator without a license aren’t really taking a huge risk, but releasing professional work with pirated software is a recipe for a lawsuit that will wind up costing you quite a bit more than the licensing fees would have.

But then, the free and cheap alternatives bring their own risks. Check out some people’s Firefox and Google Chrome browsers and you’ll see about an inch of browser space and twelve inches of search bars, task bars and plugins. This is a problem you encounter when you’re not too picky about where you’re getting your free software. The problem is that it’s more or less legal to take any piece of open source software and add a ton of stuff to the install process that the user doesn’t need. They don’t even need to include viruses and adware if you’re actually choosing to do the auto-install without deselecting all the bloatware that comes with it.

If you can get your free software directly from the official website, then that’s always the best option. Unfortunately, sometimes the official website is long gone, in which case you will want to check some forums to see if anyone has posted a legit copy to a file sharing site.

A lot of torrents for pirated software carry viruses, spamware, adware and spybots, which is another reason why they can ultimately cost you in the long run. Getting a virus off of your laptop isn’t such a big deal. Getting a virus off of every laptop in your office, and out of all the software you’ve been distributing yourself, that’s another story.

If you see someone sharing freeware on social media, just don’t click the link unless the post comes from a verified account. People love to spread infected shareware and freeware on Twitter, Facebook and Youtube.

Basically it comes down to doing your research and getting your software from as close to the source as possible. Keep your security software up to date, don’t trust random links or Youtube spam, and don’t just click on the first download you see.

Apr 02
Love0

Uninstalling Everything

By Cyber Security Awareness

04-16-cyber-4Your security software can do a lot, but it isn’t psychic. It doesn’t always know if you meant to install something, or if it piggybacked along with some freeware you picked up. Every now and then, it’s a good idea to just browse your uninstaller and see if there’s anything in there you don’t recognize.

For Windows

For most versions of Windows, the quickest way to get rid of your bloat ware is to go to the search bar from the Start button and type in “uninstall.” You’ll find a program called “uninstall a program.” You can list the programs by date of install, so you can look for things that were installed recently and make sure that it’s all stuff that’s supposed to be there.

For Mac

There are a lot of different easy to use Mac OS X uninstallers. We recommend AppCleaner, a simple, to the point uninstaller for unwanted apps.

Deleting apps from your iPhone is pretty easy: Press and hold any icon for a few seconds and all the icons will start to jiggle. Tap the X in the upper left corner of the app you’d like to get rid of and select “delete.” You can delete anything this way except for official apps that came with your phone.

When in Doubt…

If you uninstall something you needed by accident, it’s usually no big deal to reinstall it, but when you’re not sure of whether or not you need something, you can always Google it. Viruses and bots and malware are often installed under deceptive names like “Google Installer,” so do your research, and remember that, short of removing your whole operating system and every web browser on your drive, it’s usually safer to uninstall and find out than it is to just assume that something is safe.

Cleaning Out Your Web Browser

Your web browser might get hit with installations for search bars you don’t need and useless plugins and tools. You can remove most of them by just going to your settings and returning everything to how you like it. Worst-case-scenario, you can completely uninstall your browser and redownload it with Internet Explorer.

Sometimes it’s a good idea to just go down the uninstall list and get rid of software you don’t use anymore in order to clear up some RAM and hard drive space. In any event, security software and an occasional run-down of your uninstall list should be enough to keep all but the worst viruses and malware at bay.

Apr 02
Love0

Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality and Cyber Security

By Cyber Security Awareness

04-16-cyber-3In 1995, a computer virus or a cyber attack meant that you had to maybe spend a few bucks taking your desktop to a professional to get it fixed. Now we do everything on our computers and devices, so a serious cyber attack could mean being out of work, losing a lot of money, or having our identity stolen. With  virtual reality “VR” and augmented reality, we’re taking an even greater risk, putting our very perception of reality on the line.

Although we may simply want to opt out of augmented reality, there may come a time when that’s easier said than done. Twenty years ago you might have said that you weren’t interested in using the internet, but here we are. Even if you don’t actively surf the web, all of your transactions make it through the internet sooner or later. Maybe you’ll never get outfitted with a Google Glass headset, but it’s going to be simply a part of our lives sooner or later.

More likely than not, it will wind up being an integral part of how you do business, just as the internet became an integral part of doing business in the 00’s. As such, we need to start thinking about how we’re going to manage the cyber security risks associated with augmented reality and VR.

The use of augmented reality or VR in conjunction with wearable devices has the potential to even allow hackers and malware to create bodily harm, say some experts. We’ve already seen that, in theory, smart pacemakers can suffer a cyber attack. Augmented reality means that hackers could do something as simple as triggering an epileptic seizure in their targets, or use wearable items like the Google Glass as surveillance devices.

Even assuming that you never strap a wearable device onto your body for the rest of your life, simply offering free Wifi to your customers could open you up to liability should a wearable device be hacked on your watch.

The way that we fight hackers on the new frontier of wearable devices, augmented reality and VR won’t likely be much different than the way that we fight them right now. The challenge lies in the fact that cyber security tends to be, by its very nature, reactive. Hackers tend to be a step ahead of security providers because we won’t know what the vulnerabilities are until they’re capitalized upon. Fortunately, we’re seeing more and more proactive efforts to keep up with vulnerabilities affecting new technologies.

Apr 02
Love0

8 Ways to Impress Your Boss as a New Employee

By Your Employee Matters

04-16-em-4Congratulations on your new job! It’s now time to make a good impression on your boss. Here are eight steps you can take to start your new job on the right foot.

Arrive on time. Every boss appreciates an employee who arrives on time and is ready to work. Plus, clocking in on time or even a bit early shows that you’re dependable and take your job seriously.

Ask questions. During your interview, you learned a lot about your new job and responsibilities, but you don’t know everything. Consider asking about your boss’s vision for the team, the company’s overall goals and expectations about your performance or position.

Do more than the minimum. You were hired to do specific tasks, so definitely make sure your job is done right. However, if you go the extra mile, you show your boss that you’re willing to put in the work needed to succeed.

Take notes. The first few days at a new job can be overwhelming as you meet new people and jump into your new responsibilities. Carry a notebook and pen to track any instructions or tips your boss gives you. Your attentiveness shows that you value your boss’s words and time, and you won’t have to ask the same questions multiple times.

Admit mistakes. Everyone messes up occasionally, so admit your mistakes. Don’t hope the boss won’t notice or wait for him or her to point it out. Instead, show that you’re responsible, honest and mature.

Ask to cross train. After you master your job, look for opportunities to cross train. Understanding how the entire office works makes you a more versatile employee and team player.

Ask for regular meetings. A short 10-minute meeting at the end of every work day or once a week gives you the opportunity to make sure you’re on the right track. It also shows your boss that you’re open to feedback and willing to make whatever changes necessary to do the job right.

Play nice with your co-workers. No matter what job you’re hired to do, make an effort to get to know your co-workers and to play nice. Spend time chatting in the lunch room or ask what they like about their jobs as you ride the elevator together. Your effort builds teamwork, makes your boss’s job easier and is better for everyone in the long run.

Apr 02
Love0

Facebook at Work Catches On

By Your Employee Matters

04-16-em-2You already probably use Facebook to connect with family and friends. Now, Facebook at Work gives you the benefits of social media and improves communication, collaboration and productivity. It’s catching on and might become the next big thing at your workplace.

What is Facebook at Work?

Facebook at Work looks and feels like Facebook.com. Both platforms have the same tools, apps and features, so you can use Messenger, Search, Groups, Events and the News Feed, plus video and photo sharing. It’s available for desktops, iPhone, Android and mobile web. Even if you don’t have a personal Facebook, you can have a Facebook at Work account because to use Facebook at Work, employees create new accounts that are completely separate from their personal accounts.

One of the biggest differences between the two platforms is the color. Facebook at Work is white rather than blue, which allows bosses to see at a glance which Facebook employees are using. Corporations can also access and monitor everything employees do on Facebook at Work.

Easy to Use

Many companies appreciate how easy Facebook at Work is to use. Because employees are already familiar with Facebook.com, they don’t need to undergo hours of training on a new platform.

Improves Communication

Communication is easier than ever thanks to Facebook at Work. Simply start a group message and get answers to questions or feedback on a proposal within minutes or work out the details of a project in a group with teammates and clients.

Promotes Collaboration

It’s easy for employees who telecommute or work in different offices around the world to feel isolated. Facebook at Work builds a network of colleagues and helps everyone feel like part of the team.

Increases Productivity

Instead of browsing Facebook.com all the time, employees can continue to use Facebook and get work done. It also makes projects and teamwork easier than ever. With a glance, you can use this social media platform to see what everyone else is doing, find inspiration and stay motivated.

Requires Action

Like any social media platform, Facebook at Work only works if people use it. You may need to educate non-tech-savvy employees about its ins and out.

Facebook at Work is not the only social media option for corporations. Microsoft Office 365 offers Yammer, VMware sells Socialcast and Salesforce.com offers Chatter. However, the benefits of Facebook at Work make it ideal for most companies. If your company isn’t using it, consider getting on board as you connect employees, improve productivity and increase cooperation in your office.

Apr 02
Love1

Types of Workers’ Compensation Benefits

By Employment Resources

04-16-er-4Workers’ Compensation pays for your medical treatments and care when you’re injured or become ill because of you work. It also provides additional benefits if you’re disabled or killed while on the job. Learn about several types of Workers” Compensation as you understand your benefits package.

Medical Care

When you’re injured at work, you need to see a doctor. He or she will evaluate your injury and prescribe treatment. You may even need to visit the hospital for medical care or undergo surgery. Workers’ Comp will cover these visits, and it could also cover medically necessary equipment, including crutches, braces or a wheelchair. Your coverage may also pay for chiropractic treatment, acupuncture or counseling. In most cases, your Workers’ Comp will not cover experimental or investigative treatments.

Rehabilitation

Serious injuries may require rehabilitative services such as physical therapy that help you recover. Workers’ Comp can pay for this rehabilitative therapy. It could also cover any rehab you need to regain skills or abilities required for your job. If your injuries prevent you from returning to your former job, take advantage of your Workers’ Compensation benefits that can pay for evaluations, tuition, retraining and other expenses required to train you for another position.

Disability

Worker’s Comp disability coverage pays you for the wages you lose while you’re recovering from your illness or injury. There are four types of disability it can cover.

*Temporary partial disability prohibits you from performing certain duties of your job for a limited period of time.
*Temporary total disability prevents you from working at all for a limited period of time.
*Permanent partial disability describes permanent impairment that partially hinders your ability to work.
*Permanent total disability means you will never return to your current or a similar job.

The amount of Worker’s Comp money you receive for a disability depends on how much you earned before your injury or illness occurred. It’s typically capped at two-thirds of your wages. Additionally, there’s often a waiting period before you can receive disability payments, and you do not pay income tax on this income.

Death

The death benefit in your Workers’ Comp plan covers the financial contributions you make to your dependents. It is paid to your spouse, parent, child or sibling and could total a percentage of your earnings. The death benefit of your Workers” Comp coverage may also pay for your funeral and burial expenses.

Every state offers a slightly different take on Workers’ Compensation, so refer to your company’s benefits for details on the types of Workers’ Comp you are eligible to receive. For more details, talk to your Human Resources department.04-16-er-4

Apr 02
Love0

What Not To Say In Your Help Wanted Ad

By Employment Resources

04-16-er-3 (1)Writing a help wanted ad can be a daunting task. It needs to be concise and to-the-point and descriptive. It also has to be completely free of any language that’s considered discriminatory. Use these tips about what you should avoid as you write an attractive and engaging help wanted ad for your company.

Protected Status

Title VII discusses diversity in the workplace and prohibits discrimination based on gender, national origin, race, age or religion. Sexual orientation is also protected in some states. Don’t include any words in your help wanted ad that indicate your preference for or against applicants based on their protected statuses. An attorney can preview your ads to make sure they’re compliant with the law.

Gender-Specific Language

Unless the open job can only be filled by a certain gender, avoid using gender-specific words like waitress or mailman in your help wanted ads. Opt instead for gender-neutral language like server or mailperson.

Vague Job Description

You may wish to attract a variety of candidates for the job, but a vague job description could attract dozens of unqualified candidates. Write out a list of specific duties for the job, choose the top five and then write a clear ad that expresses what a potential hire will be doing.

Missing Requirements

Let’s say the open job requires heavy lifting, a real estate license or advance training. Include these details in the help wanted ad as you create an accurate ad that attracts applicants who meet your requirements.

No Hours

Include whether the job is part-time or full-time and if nights or weekends are required. This information is important for applicants who may only be available during certain hours.

Personality Preferences

Of course, you want someone on your sales staff who’s outgoing and charismatic. Put those personality traits on your help wanted ad, though, and applicants will act the part to get the job. Your ad should focus instead on the job, and you can use the interview to get a feel for the applicant’s personality.

Inaccurate Contact Information

Even if you write a killer help wanted ad, you won’t get any applicants if you don’t include accurate contact info. Based on the job and your preferences, tell applicants if they should apply via mail, in-person, fax or email, and ensure the information is accurate.

Spelling or Grammar Errors

Show applicants that you’re professional when you check your ad for spelling and grammar before you publish it.

Your next help wanted ad can attract quality applicants thanks to your writing skills. Be sure you know what not to say as you look to fill the open positions in your company.

Apr 02
Love0

IRA Funding Tips for Soon-to-be Retirees

By Employment Resources

04-16-er-2As you approach retirement, you may realize that you haven’t saved enough. Up to one in three adults between 55 and 64 years of age haven’t even started a retirement fund. Before you panic, consider several tips that allow you to boost your IRA savings without compromising your emergency fund or cash reserves.

Move Savings to Your IRA

Maybe you have an emergency fund or savings account that’s earning minimal interest. As long as you have enough money for emergencies, move some of your savings into your IRA.

Invest Tax Returns

The money you get back from your tax return could do more than pay for a vacation. Invest it into your IRA where it earns interest and grows until you need it.

Withdraw CD Interest

Withdraw money from a CD that hasn’t matured yet, and you’ll incur fees. However, the interest that has accrued typically can be withdrawn without penalty. Use that money to boost your IRA savings.

Access an Annuity

An annuity that’s not associated with a retirement account can become a great way to boost your IRA account. First, check the insurance benefits associated with the annuity and compare fees for the annuity and the IRA. This way, you know for sure that you’re gaining rather than losing money.

Delay Withdrawals

Once you reach 59-1/2 years old, you can take penalty-free withdrawals from your retirement accounts. Consider delaying those withdrawals as you grow your funds for the future.

Reinvest Retirement Funds

If you don’t have a choice and need to take withdrawals, reinvest those funds into your IRA. This savings strategy protects your savings for the future.

Downsize Your Home

While you may not be ready for your retirement home, you may save money by downsizing. Sell your home and rent a condo or apartment. Invest the money from your home sale and the monthly money you save can be invested into your IRA.

Take on a Renter

Selling your home may not be an option, so take on a renter. Invest the rent minus expenses into your retirement fund.

Get a Second Job

The end of your working career is in sight, and getting a second job may be the last thing on your mind. However, you have a vast wealth of experience and can turn your skills, talents and abilities into extra income thanks to a second job.

Saving for retirement now gives you peace of mind, and every little bit helps. Even if you’re close to retiring, you can make some tweaks to your daily spending as you increase your IRA fund. Discuss the details of your retirement with your financial advisor today.

Apr 02
Love0

Why You Need a Health Savings Account If You Are Over 55

By Employment Resources

04-16-er-1A Health Savings Account (HSA) allows you to save money tax-free for medical expenses. It’s a good idea for people of all ages, including you if you’re over 55. Here’s why.

What is an HSA?

An HSA accompanies your high deductible insurance plan. Not only will you pay lower premiums for the high-deductible insurance, but an HSA allows you to save money tax-free for medical expenses. You’ll also pay fewer taxes with an HSA since you contribute pre-tax money into it, withdraw money tax-free and don’t pay taxes on the accrued interest. You can make contributions to your HSA until you’re 65 and enroll in Medicare. After 65, you can continue to withdraw funds tax-free for qualified medical expenses.

How do you Qualify for an HSA?

You’re eligible for an HSA if you purchase your own health insurance, are self employed or have an HSA option from your employer.

How do you use an HSA?

Money in your HSA is used for eligible medical expenses, including:

*Acupuncture
*Chiropractor care
*Dental treatments
*Diagnostic services and lab tests
*Doctor and hospital fees
*Hearing aids and batteries
*Podiatrist visits
*Prescription medications
*Psychiatrist and Psychologist visits
*Substance abuse treatment
*Vision care

If you withdraw money from an HSA for non-eligible medical expenses, you’ll pay income tax on the withdrawn amount. Because you’re under 65, you’ll also owe a 10 percent penalty tax.

Understand the Math

To find out how much money you can save with an HSA, do the math.

Without an HSA, Adult A pays $596 a month for a health insurance policy with a $1,000 deductible. He pays 20 percent of all medical expenses until the $2,500 out-of-pocket maximum is met. In one year, he will pay $7,152 in premiums alone or $9,652 if he has medical expenses.

With an HSA, Adult B pays $349 in premiums each month and has a $5,500 deductible. Her medical expenses are paid 100 percent after she reaches her deductible. In one year, she’ll pay $4,188 in premiums, and she can contribute up to $3,350 to her HSA account. If she has medical expenses, she’ll pay her premium and deductible, which totals $9,688.

While both adults spend about the same amount of money for medical care, the person with an HSA also has funds set aside for her future medical care.

An HSA is a wise investment if you’re over 55, especially if you’re in good health and don’t engage in risky behavior. Talk to your insurance agent about your needs as you learn more about why an HSA is a good fit for you.

Apr 02
Love0

Importance of Vaccinations

By Life and Health

04-16-lh-4Vaccinations are designed to prevent disease and protect people. Essentially, it’s a shot that introduces a killed or weakened form of a disease into your body. In response, your body builds immunity to that disease. The next time you’re exposed to the real disease, your body fights it off and you don’t get sick.

Health insurance typically covers vaccines, and your insurance company may even send you a reminder when you or your child is due for his or her next shots. Here are several reasons why vaccinations are important.

Protects Your Kids

Diseases like polio, pertussis (whooping cough), measles, diphtheria, rubella (German measles), mumps, smallpox, rotavirus, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) and tetanus are all deadly. They are also prevented by vaccination. By following the recommended vaccination schedule as outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, you protect your kids from hearing loss, paralysis, amputation, convulsions, brain damage and death, all health effects of the diseases vaccines prevent.

Protect Other People

Immunizations protect other kids and keep your community healthy. When your kids aren’t vaccinated, they can carry diseases to other people. Babies who are too young for immunizations and anyone with a compromised immunity, including cancer patients or elderly people, could contract a life-threatening disease when they’re exposed to someone who is not vaccinated.

Stop Outbreaks of Preventable Disease

A preventable disease could be eradicated in your area but may be thriving in another part of the world. Travel the globe or be exposed to a world traveler, and you or your unvaccinated child could carry or contract a disease. By getting regular vaccinations, you potentially curb outbreaks and stop the spread of diseases.

Vaccinations are Safe

Several controversies surround vaccinations, and you may be afraid that your kids will get a serious health challenge if you vaccinate them. Actually, vaccinations undergo intense testing and review by doctors, scientists and the federal government before they’re approved. The immunizations you and your children receive are safe.

Vaccinations are Recommended by Professionals

Doctor and scientists at the American Academy of Family Physicians, American Academy of Pediatrics and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention all recommend vaccinations. These men and women strongly support the protective qualities of immunizations.

Vaccines Save Money

By getting vaccinated, your kids are less likely to contract diseases. Better health means fewer visits to the doctor, less medications and bigger savings on health care.

Much controversy surrounds vaccinations, so do your research as you decide if they’re right for your kids. Ask your insurance agent, too, for a list of recommended vaccines for kids and adults.

Close Menu