Tuesday – Tech Tossed Salad

Mix and match for your Tuesday. (And Software Giveaway.)

• Some time back I mentioned “virtual tours”, and how the Internet can allow us to see things and places we might not be able to get to in person.. like Rome, Italy, for instance (see, Visit The Sistine Chapel – Right Now – Free!). I came across a 360° view of the space shuttle’s cockpit, and I think it is pretty neat-o. By default, it pans around the 360, but there are ‘control buttons’ (including “zoom”). Even if you are not an “airplane nut” like me, I think you’ll find it interesting. Check it out here.
(And I notice that’s not a Macbook there…)

• A Craigslist Scam Hits Home

“Recently a friend of mine posted a high valued item on Craigslist and within hours he received the response reflected below. Ultimately his common sense kicked in and he had me take a look at it. I immediately knew it was a scam” Read more..

• 10 survival tips for non-morning people

“Some people jump out of bed in the morning, hit the ground running, and leave a trail of creative thinking and focused accomplishment in their wake. And then there’s the rest of us.” Read more..

• Stay safe online: 5 secrets every PC (and Mac) owner should know

“My #1 help question of 2011? It’s no contest: “How do I protect myself online?” In this post, I share the five steps I teach to friends, family members, and clients who want to avoid malware, scareware, phishing sites, and other online scams.“ Read more..

• The 20 best back-to-school laptops

“Schools starts in just a few weeks so you can’t put off buying that laptop much longer. Here are 20 of the best available right now.“ Read more..

• Brilliant But Doomed: Technology’s Most Magnificent Failures

“The short lives and sad fates of twenty genuinely bright ideas.” Read more..

• Geek technologies that still thrive at 25 (and beyond)

“Join us in a celebratory tour of high tech’s still-kicking senior citizens: the technologies that geeks know and love, and that tend to make a lot of everyday technology work.” Read More..

• Five tips for controlling procrastination

“Some people say procrastination works for them, keeping them sharp and efficient. But for others, it’s self-defeating, guilt-inducing, and demoralizing.” Read more..

• Don’t miss out on the chance to enter my latest software license giveaway drawing.

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*** A Chance To Win A Valuable Prize! ***

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The folks at Softland have generously donated ten licenses for novaPDF Professional to me, to award to my readers.

“novaPDF is a PDF creator for Windows that allows you to easily create PDF files. With novaPDF, everyone from novice users to professionals can create high-quality documents in industry-standard PDF format, by simply selecting the “Print” command from virtually any application.“

To enter the drawing, please see: Software Giveaway – novaPDF Professional

• Old-school phishing emails make a return. I have noticed a resurgence of the old “Dearly Beloved” and “for our mutual benefit” scam email spam messages this week. Is this due to the recent stock market plunge? Are they hoping there are more desperate Americans? (You’d have to be desperate to fall for Jurassic Period [circa 1995] scams.. right?)

• Anonymous Hackers Expose Sensitive Law Enforcement Data

“Anonymous and LulzSec hackers published the private data of more than 70 rural law enforcement agencies across the country, exposing sensitive information such as passwords, security training and tip information.” Read more..

[Have you ever left an ‘anonymous tip’, or work as a a undercover ‘snitch’? Might wanna read this one..]

Today’s quote: “When I do good, I feel good. When I do bad, I feel bad. That’s my religion.” ~ Abraham Lincoln

Have a good day, everybody. I hope you are enjoying your summer.

Copyright 2007-2011 © “Tech Paul” (Paul Eckstrom). All Rights Reserved.

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Software Giveaway – novaPDF Professional

Folks, I Am Pleased to Announce My Latest Software License Giveaway Drawing.

The folks at Softland have generously donated 10 licenses for novaPDF Professional to me, to award to my readers. I sincerely thank them for that. So I am going to do a random drawing ¹ contest from those who “enter”. The contest will close at midnight (Pacific) Thursday, August 11th, and the winners announced Friday.

I am going to start this out by telling you that main thing I want to say about this software is – it delivers what it advertises (and merits the word “Pro”). At $50 retail, novaPDF will convert your document files into PDF format without making your wallet cry OUCH! (like Adobe’s product can..).

I have to also say that I agree with the reviews shown immediately below (the first is quite comprehensive). And that I am a fan of the “mail to” (email) and document security features. (A full list of features is available here. [It is too lengthy to post.]) I found the integration with Office 2010, and also Office 2003 – done during initial install – produced flawless output (on Vista and XP machines, respectively).

Read review..

Read review..

Read review..

From the publisher:

“novaPDF is a PDF creator for Windows that allows you to easily create PDF files (searchable and optionally PDF/A compliant). With novaPDF, everyone from novice users to professionals can create high-quality documents in industry-standard PDF format, by simply selecting the “Print” command from virtually any application.

Once installed, this PDF creator lets you: add PDF bookmarks, insert active PDF links, use it as shared network PDF printer, create public/private printing profiles, add PDF watermarks, reduce PDF file size, password protect PDF files, overlay and/or merge PDF files, convert to PDF any printable document and much more.”

One of my ‘competitors’, SpyOnTech.com, posted this video demonstration of novaPDF Pro on YouTube. (Their review is here.) They are showing available features.. you do not need to do that much clicking to use novaPDF! (In fact, I set my preferences, and haven’t gone back.)

novaPDF works quickly, and produces crisp (“sharp”), small (“compact”), PDF files. NovaPDF Professional includes the features businesses expect, and is affordable enough for the average consumer. The PDF (format) was suppose to create a “paperless society”; which hasn’t quite happened yet. With novaPDF you can take big strides in that direction.
(There are also “Lite” and “Standard” editions available. “Professional” is the top of the line. A comaprison of the editions is Here.)

How to enter? Residents of the US and Canada only may enter the contest drawing by simply clicking on “comment” (below), and entering a name and a valid e-mail (so I can send you a license key) in the form. Actually commenting is optional. And, I shouldn’t have to say this, but multiple entries will result in disqualification. (In this contest. Entry in prior contests doesn’t count against you.)

¹ All entrants will be placed into Random.org’s “list randomizer”, and the top 10 results will be the winners. A 30-day trial of novaPDF Professional Desktop can be downloaded here, Free 30-day trial. Try it out yourself. (And then leave a comment. You may just win one of these valuable prizes!)

Again, my thanks to the folks at Softland for making this Giveaway possible!

Copyright 2007-2011 © “Tech Paul” (Paul Eckstrom). All Rights Reserved.

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June Arrives | I Must Have ADHD | Software Giveaway Ends

“Attention Deficit Disorder”, that good old catch-all — how in blazes did that subject come up? Well, I visited Rick Robinette’s blog – as I do every day – and he mentioned a relaxation website called Do Nothing for 2 Minutes. And the picture looked attractive and pretty…

Click here

I have visited several times now, and have yet to be able to let the countdown timer reach 0. Seems I cannot sit still for even two minutes! But I am going to keep trying. Take a look for yourself. The scenery and relaxing sound of the ocean may be just enough to get your blood pressure lowered, and/or your 4th Chakra in line with Aquarius.

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Loyal readers have seen me mention Rick’s website before; and know that I recommend checking it out. Here are his most recent postings. I think you’ll agree, there’s interesting stuff there.

• Windows 8 Is Really Just Around the Corner
• [GEEK SQUEAKS’] – Chop Your Boot Time, Foul Ball, Remove Fake PC Scanner, Cell Phone Safety
• Search and Destroy (Spyware and Malware)
• [DID YOU KNOW?] – The Easy Way to Boot Your Computer Into Safe Mode
• [GEEK SQUEAKS’] – FREE All-In-One Utility, Windows 7 Defrag, Directory Monitor and All About Files
• Quickly Delete Folders with Large Number of Files

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I want to send out a public “Thank you!” out to Gmail Gmaill. I sure do appreciate the ‘heads up’.

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** Software Giveaway Drawing End Tonight **

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the folks at PCTools have generously donated ten licenses for Spyware Doctor With Antivirus 2011 (a license can be used on up to three PC’s) to me, to award to my readers.

Editor’s Choice Antivirus and Antispyware in One
Spyware Doctor with AntiVirus combines two powerful engines to detect and remove unknown threats faster.

• Antivirus guards against malicious PC threats.
• Antispyware prevents information and identity theft.

It defends your computer against malware attacks with multiple layers of protection using proactive, reactive and automatic anti spyware antivirus software protection to stop threats at every entry point. Now includes memory scanning, behavior profiling, and report cards to provide up-to-date protection and status monitoring for your PC.

For details (and to enter the drawing), click here. The chance for free software ends at midnight (Pacific) tonight – so act now.

Copyright 2007-2011 © “Tech Paul” (Paul Eckstrom). All Rights Reserved.

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Spyware Doctor Giveaway and More..

Folks, life has me jumping, so I am a bit late posting this..

First, I would like to remind everyone of my license giveaway contest: Interested in a chance at a free, 3-PC license for Spyware Doctor 2011? I am giving ten away. To find out the 4-1-1, click here, and read.

Next, I heard on the radio today that Google admits their Gmail accounts had had a hacking attempt, and that the attack came out of “central China”. This is huge .. I hope you understand why. If you don’t.. might I suggest subscribing to my newsletter?

Google phishing: Chinese Gmail attack raises cyberwar tensions
The Guardian – ‎45 minutes ago‎

A Google employee in Seoul. South Korean government officials are among those who have had their Gmail login details stolen by Chinese hackers.

I have had several people contact me about losing their Internet Explorer Favorites. Of course, they never “exported” their Favorites (Microsoft’s word for “bookmarks”) to a file, so…
Fortunately, I have written many IE tips and fixes. A good place to start looking at my Internet Explorer tips is Quick Tips for Internet Explorer.

Also, interestingly, I received many inquiries from folks with problem keyboards. Fortunately again, I could refer them to Fix Problem Keyboards*and also What To Do When Your Mouse Plays Dead Or Your Keyboard.

Sigh.. phone is ringing again..

Jumpin’!

Copyright 2007-2011 © “Tech Paul” (Paul Eckstrom). All Rights Reserved.

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Spyware Doctor 10 License Giveaway

Folks,
Interested in a chance at a free, 3PC license of Spyware Doctor 2011? I am giving ten away. To find out the 4-1-1, click here, and read.

A Special Day Indeed – SDAV 2011 License Giveaway

Folks, I Am Sincerely Pleased to Announce My Latest Holiday Software License Giveaway Drawing.

The folks at PCTools have generously donated 10 licenses for Spyware Doctor With Antivirus 2011 to me, to award to my readers. I sincerely thank them for that. So I am going to do a random drawing ¹ contest from those who “enter”. The contest will close at midnight (Pacific) Thursday, June 2nd, and the winners announced Friday.

I am going to start this out by telling you that I have a very high regard for the effectiveness of this anti-malware and Internet Security tool, (so high, I installed it on my mother’s machine) and have been using it for years now – since before they acquired the award-winning Threatfire heuristics engine. Not only is “SD” very good at detecting and removing viruses, trojans, keyloggers, etc., but it is also very good at blocking that *stuff* from getting onto your machine as well.
(And I have said many times: an ounce of malware prevention is worth a couple pounds of cure.)

From the publisher:

Editor’s Choice Antivirus and Antispyware in One
Spyware Doctor with AntiVirus combines two powerful engines to detect and remove unknown threats faster.

• Antivirus guards against malicious PC threats.
• Antispyware prevents information and identity theft.

It defends your computer against malware attacks with multiple layers of protection using proactive, reactive and automatic anti spyware antivirus software protection to stop threats at every entry point. Now includes memory scanning, behavior profiling, and report cards to provide up-to-date protection and status monitoring for your PC.

Please notice in this slideshow, the various “layers’ (ten of ’em) of protection SDAV’s technology provides. (I hope you never have to use any of those last three.. )

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

SDAV 2011’s main features and improvements are:

IMPROVED! Detection, blocking and removal of threats awarded top ratings by independent testing labs and recommended by reviewers worldwide.

• Built on award-winning Spyware Doctor™ antispyware technology.
• Advanced rootkit detection technology identifies and removes hidden threats from your PC.
• NEW! Memory Scanner helps eradicate threats lurking on your PC.
• NEW! Download Guard checks your downloads against a cloud-based network.

NEW! Multi-layered browsing protection against web-based attacks including phishing attempts, rogueware scare tactics and silent drive-by downloads.

• Uses a combination of reactive blacklists and proactive content analysis.
• Site Guard blocks you from visiting potentially unsafe or phishing websites and from downloading threats through your browser, IM or email.
• Cookie Guard automatically removes potentially malicious tracking and advertising cookies.
• Browser Guard stops automatic downloads, fake AV and malicious files from compromised or exploit websites.

Constant real-time IntelliGuard™ protection monitors for malicious activity involving spyware, viruses, tracking cookies, suspicious ActiveX® objects, browser hijackers, keyloggers, Trojans and more.

Quick links

• Overview

• Features

• Accolades

• Details

Spyware Doctor, in the years I have been using it, has never failed to earn my regard and respect. My (very few) critiques nitpicks have been minor. I consider it a most important tool in my fight against cybercrime. It is Top Drawer – period. (That’s my “review”.)

These 1 year (subscription) licenses retail for $39.99, and can be used on up to three of your PC’s.

How to enter? Residents of the US and Canada only may enter the contest drawing by simply clicking on “comment” (below), and entering a name and a valid e-mail (so PC Tools can send you a license key) in the form. Actually commenting is optional. And, I shouldn’t have to say this, but multiple entries will result in disqualification. (In this contest. Entry in prior contests doesn’t count against you.)
Again, the license can be used on up to three PC’s.

Note: SDAV is an antivirus; and you only want one AV on your machine at a time. It is also not a good idea to have more than one heuristic (behavior detection) tool onboard (active) so you may need to disable or uninstall some products before installing Spyware Doctor With Antivirus.

¹ All entrants will be placed into Random.org’s “list randomizer”, and the top  10 results will be the winners. A 30-day, limited-function trial of Spyware Doctor with AV can be downloaded here, Free 30-day trial. Try it out yourself. (And then leave a comment. You may just win one of these valuable prizes!)

Again, my thanks to the folks at PCTools for making this Giveaway possible!

UPDATE: This contest has concluded. The winners can be seen here, Spyware Doctor Winners. My thanks to all who partcipated.

Copyright 2007-2011 © “Tech Paul” (Paul Eckstrom). All Rights Reserved.

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Software License Giveaway: Auslogics BoostSpeed 5

I am pleased to announce my latest software license giveaway drawing.

Folks, I had decided to not run any more contests; but, I recently received an email from a company I trust, asking me for a review. The upside for you is: the folks at Auslogics have generously donated three licenses (a license can be used on up to three PC’s) to me, to award to my readers. I sincerely thank them for that. So, I am going to do a random drawing¹ contest from folks who “enter” by posting a comment (below). The drawing will close midnight (Pacific) Thursday, April 7 — the winners announce Friday — so act now.

BoostSpeed is a program (maybe more accurately, a suite of programs) for optimizing your computer and improving its performance. I have been testing it for a week now and, below, I will give you my impressions, but first…

“This system optimization tool suite takes an everything-plus-the-kitchen-approach to cleaning, optimizing, and potentially speeding up your PC. ” ~ PC World (read full review)

CNet says:

“BoostSpeed is an effective all-encompassing utility suite, combining some of Auslogics’ popular freeware titles such as Disk Defrag and Registry Defrag with services that they don’t offer elsewhere…“

Here is CNet’s video review and description of BoostSpeed. (The full review is here.)

Vodpod videos no longer available.

Publisher’s description:

Your one-stop PC maintenance and optimization tool.
The program will clean up, speed up and repair your system
to make it running as fast and stable as new.

• Cleans up the Windows registry
• Defragments hard drives
• Frees up disk space
• Recovers accidentally deleted files
• Speeds up Internet connection

click to see larger

I found BoostSpeed 5 safe, and it’s 1-Click feature quite easy enough for beginners. This is a comprehensive set of tools, and I was happy that it also had cool goodies (aka ‘tweaks’) for the Power User too (I was particularly impressed by the comprehensive TCP/IP ‘tweak’ options). For giggles,  I also installed and ran BoostSpeed 5 on a machine that had a competitor’s “live optimization” suite running, and BoostSpeed 5 found a couple hundred (minor) issues the other had been missing (see screenshot).

My one ‘critique’ is minor: the “scheduler” is not turned on by default, and you need to go into the advanced settings menu to enable it (and set a scheduled scan); which the ‘casual’/’novice’ type of user won’t (I suspect) know to do.. and there’s no prompts. Hopefully, a (future) update will cure that oversight.

But I won’t reinvent the wheel here –> for the “full skinny” on BoostSpeed, I refer you to (and encourage you to read) Bill Mullins’ comprehensive review, Auslogics BoostSpeed 5 – A Powerful “One Stop” Optimization And Maintenance Suite, which he posted just a few days ago.

Auslogics BoostSpeed 5 is $49.95/year, and supports the following Windows versions:

• Windows XP with SP2 or later (32-bit and 64-bit)
• Windows 2003 (32-bit and 64-bit)
• Windows Vista (32-bit and 64-bit)
• Windows 2008 (32-bit and 64-bit)
• Windows 7 (32-bit and 64-bit)

How to enter? Residents of the US and Canada may enter the contest drawing by simply clicking on “comment” (below), and entering a name and a valid e-mail (so I can send you the license key) in the form. Actually commenting is optional. And, I shouldn’t have to say this, but multiple entries will result in disqualification.
Again, the license can be used on up to three PC’s.

Again, I thank the folks at Auslogics for making this giveaway possible. More reviews can be seen, and a 15-day free trial of BoostSpeed can be downloaded, here. Try it out yourself. (And then, maybe, leave a comment. You may just win an activation key..!)

¹ All entrants will be placed into Random.org’s “randomizer”, and the top (first) 3 results will be the winners.

Copyright 2007-2011 © “Tech Paul” (Paul Eckstrom). All Rights Reserved.

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