Info Wiki - User contributions [en]

Scams

2014-02-13T00:19:32Z

Lpb: /* Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically */ Add latest example

Scams, especially via [[Spam|spam emails]], but also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness.

The point of a scam is to somehow gain an advantage from you. It may be remittance of money, or just simply giving away personal details. But if you look at an incoming e-mail and it is correctly addressed to you, then you are already on a list somewhere that is being distributed or sold. Apart from abandoning that particular e-mail address, there little you can do about it.

PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with.

Most reputable organisations (banks, credit unions, trade unions, clubs etc) have similar policies of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages.

This is simply good basic Internet practise.

I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted in the PCUG being placed on blacklists at the time, thus blocking some email delivery for all users. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all!

Please review the links below for further information, and take specific note of the scam emails listed which target PCUG members specifically.

Also, a '''scamwatch''' e-mail list has been set up to allow members to warn other members about, and to discuss, scams/spam. You can subscribe to the list by going to the PCUG's [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch scamwatch listinfo page].

See also our page with more practical guidance on [[Handling Email SPAM]]

== More Information ==

For some guidance on how to avoid being caught by scams, see:

* [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online], an Australian government site with lots of useful information
* [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] from the ACCC
* [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] - a number of members have found a subscription to their scamwatch list useful
* [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam report a scam to the ACCC]
* [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - Financial scams recorded by ASIC]
* [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP information on Internet Fraud & scams]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams]

== Scam Warnings ==

Most scams use well-known brands to try to convince you of their trustworthiness - the Australian Government and its agencies, ANZ, NAB, Westpac and Commonwealth banks, Woolworths, Coles and the list goes on. If you are in doubt about any company-branded email, find their real site and visit it. Most have gotten over their shyness about scammers trying to steal their identities, and are quite up front about the attempts being made to con readers.

* [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013]
* [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013]
* [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013]
* [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013]
* [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013]
* [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013]
* [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013]
* [http://www.nab.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/nab/nab/home/personal_finance/12/13/9/1 NAB phishing e-mails - 5th Aug 2013]
* [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/shopping-scams-rise-65-per-cent Shopping Scams up by 65% - 8th Aug 2013]

== Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically ==
We note here some recently seen scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously noted as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email. Please '''Do NOT follow the link or open the PDF attachment!''' in any such emails!

==== SCAM - Feb 2014 - Subject: PCUG email users ====
The following scam is being sent to members circa February 2014. Note
* the actual from address is a brazilian account (same as last 2 scams) <code><andreia@gr1editora.com.br></code>
* PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address
* the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website
* the grammar is woeful!

From: *PCUG Email notice* <andreia@gr1editora.com.br>
Date: Thursday, 13 February 2014
Subject: PCUG email users
To:

This is to inform all PCUG email users that we have change to a secured email
system to help us fight against spam emails so you are therefore authorise to
click the link below to avoid any problems or spam attack to your email address.
Log-in to your email with your PCUG log-in account details and then click finish, to
avoid any problems to your account you must complete this process.

CLICK HERE TO FINISH UPDATE TO PCUG.ORG.AU NEW WEBMAIL SYSTEM
<nowiki>http://www.formlogix.com/Manager/UserConditionalSurvey244203.aspx?Param=VXNlcklkPTI0NDIwMy5Gb3JtSWQ9MQ==</nowiki>

==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Pcug email users ====
The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note
* the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>PCUG Service Administrator <andreia@gr1editora.com.br></code>
* PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address
* the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website
* the grammar is woeful!

Date: Thu, 30 Jan 2014 00:12:08 -0200
From: PCUG Service Administrator <andreia@gr1editora.com.br>
To: undisclosed-recipients: ;
Subject: [PCUG] Pcug email users

This is to inform all Pcug email users that we have change to a
secured email system to help us fight against spam emails so you are
therefore authorise to click the link below to avoid any problems or
spam attack to your email address. Log-in to your email with your Pcug
log-in account details to avoid any problems to your account you must
complete this process.

<nowiki>http://securedpcug.form2pay.com/131173.html</nowiki>
----

==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Dear Pcug User ====
The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note
* the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>Pcug University <andreia@gr1editora.com.br></code>
* PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address
* the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website
* the grammar is woeful!

From: Pcug University <andreia@gr1editora.com.br>
Subject: Dear Pcug User
Date: 27 January 2014 3:27:38 AM AEDT
To: undisclosed-recipients:;

--
Dear Pcug User

There is an emergence from our data base we are currently carrying-out a
maintenance process to your mailbox account, to complete this process
Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link
fill and click on submit.

<nowiki>http://webupdate.form2pay.com/130542.html</nowiki>

(copy it and paste it into your web browser's bar. then fill and submit for
complete update)

This process will help us to fight against spam mails. Failure to complete
this process, will have your mailbox account deleted from our database.

Thanks
HELP DESK
----

==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - SCAMwatch warning to smartphone and tablet users ====
SCAMwatch is warning consumers to beware of scammers targeting their smartphones and tablet devices with the computer virus scam.

This scam has caught out many Australians in recent years, with victims receiving a call out of the blue from a ‘technical specialist’ claiming that their computer has a virus. The caller convinces the victim to provide them with remote access to their
computer, claims that their security has been compromised, and then offers to fix it on the spot – for a fee.

In a new twist, scammers are claiming to be able to fix similar viruses on people’s smartphones or tablets. As with the previous version, the scammer will ask you to grant them remote access to your computer, however they will also ask you to connect
your mobile device to the computer so that they can access the device through it.

Don’t let your guard drop by a sense of urgency – these scammers are well-versed at applying high pressure sales tactics to incite fear and anxiety that your device has been compromised and must be fixed immediately. In fact, the only way that you risk your device’s security is by providing access in the first place. If you hand over your money, your device will not receive the promised protection.

Ask yourself: why would a business call and offer to fix your computer unless you contacted them in the first place? If you store personal information on your phone, tablet or computer, keep it out of the hands of scammers – never provide remote access to a stranger.

How the scam works:-

*You receive a call out of the blue from someone claiming to be a technical support specialist, who informs you that your computer, smartphone or tablet has been compromised by malicious software.
* The caller may claim to represent a reputable business such as Microsoft, Windows, Telstra or Bigpond.
*They may also sound like an expert as they use technical jargon.
*The ‘technician’ will ask you to provide them with remote access to your computer so that they can run a scan.
*If they claim the virus is on your smartphone or tablet, they will ask you to connect the device to your computer so that they can access the device through it.
*If you provide them with access, they will claim that the scan has indeed detected a virus, and any information stored on the device has been compromised.
*The ‘technician’ will then claim that they can restore your computer’s security on the spot – for a fee. They will offer to install anti-virus software on to your device for a one-off payment that typically ranges from $100 to $300.
*If you hesitate to agree, the caller will be very persistent and try to evoke a sense of urgency by claiming that anything could happen to your device if you don’t fix it now.
*To pay, they will ask for your credit card or banking details, or to transfer them money.
*If you provide remote access to the caller, only then are your compromising your device and personal information. If you hand over your money, your device will never receive the promised security software.

Protect yourself

*If you receive a phone call from someone claiming there is something wrong with your computer or mobile device’s security, just hang up.
*Never give a stranger remote access to your mobile device or computer.
*Do not give out your personal, credit card or online account details over the phone unless you initiated the call and the phone number came from a trusted source.
*Make sure your computer is protected with anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and a good firewall - but only purchase the software from a source that you know and trust.
*If you think your mobile device or computer’s security has been compromised, seek out help or advice from a qualified and reputable technician.
*If you think you have provided your account details to a scammer, contact your bank or financial institution immediately.

Report

You can report scams to the ACCC via the report a scam page on SCAMwatch or by calling 1300 795 995.
----

==== SCAM - Nov 2013 - Subject: Dear Pcug User, - From: Pcug Administrator ====
The following scam is being sent to members circa November 2013. Note
* the actual from address is a brazilian account! alexandre@dilk.com.br
* PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address
* the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website
* the grammar is woeful!

'''Do NOT follow the link and provide requested details!'''

From: Pcug Administrator [mailto:alexandre@dilk.com.br]
Sent: Tuesday, 19 November 2013 2:25 PM
To: undisclosed-recipients:
Subject: Dear Pcug User,

Dear Pcug User,

A phish attempt, banned phrase or sensitive information was detected in a message sent to you and the original message has been quarantined.
This message is a copy of the original with the content replaced with this text. The subject line and sender information has been unaltered from the original.
Please you are to re-validate your pcug.org.au email address immediately.
Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link then fill and submit.

<nowiki>http://pcug.form2go.com/125479.html</nowiki>

Thanks.
Help Desk
----

==== SCAM - Sep 2013 - No Subject - PCUG Network Manager ====
The following scam is being sent to members circa September 2013. Note the actual from address is a gmail account!: sb.netwrk@gmail.com

'''Do not open the PDF attachment!'''

From: PCUG Network Manager <sb.netwrk@gmail.com>
To: undisclosed-recipients:;
Subject:

In order to comply with PCUG Corporate Policy, it is your responsibility to validate the mailbox ownership and review the access rights due to
unauthorized access to your account by spammers.
modifications to the permissions are required, please complete the Department Mailbox Request Form by viewing the enclosed attachment
and follow instruction therein.

Regards,

PCUG Network Manager
Production Security Compliance
----

==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ====
The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says!

From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki>
To: XXX@pcug.org.au
Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit

Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator,
we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox.

please provide the below credentials :

Email Address:
Username :
Password:
Confirm Password:

System Administrator
----

== See Also ==

* [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams

[[Category:Technical Info]]

Scams

2014-01-31T01:11:19Z

Lpb: Fix minor typos

Scams, especially via [[Spam|spam emails]], but also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness.

The point of a scam is to somehow gain an advantage from you. It may be remittance of money, or just simply giving away personal details. But if you look at an incoming e-mail and it is correctly addressed to you, then you are already on a list somewhere that is being distributed or sold. Apart from abandoning that particular e-mail address, there little you can do about it.

PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with.

Most reputable organisations (banks, credit unions, trade unions, clubs etc) have similar policies of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages.

This is simply good basic Internet practise.

I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted in the PCUG being placed on blacklists at the time, thus blocking some email delivery for all users. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all!

Please review the links below for further information, and take specific note of the scam emails listed which target PCUG members specifically.

Also, a '''scamwatch''' e-mail list has been set up to allow members to warn other members about, and to discuss, scams/spam. You can subscribe to the list by going to the PCUG's [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch scamwatch listinfo page].

See also our page with more practical guidance on [[Handling Email SPAM]]

== More Information ==

For some guidance on how to avoid being caught by scams, see:

* [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online], an Australian government site with lots of useful information
* [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] from the ACCC
* [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] - a number of members have found a subscription to their scamwatch list useful
* [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam report a scam to the ACCC]
* [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - Financial scams recorded by ASIC]
* [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP information on Internet Fraud & scams]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams]

== Scam Warnings ==

Most scams use well-known brands to try to convince you of their trustworthiness - the Australian Government and its agencies, ANZ, NAB, Westpac and Commonwealth banks, Woolworths, Coles and the list goes on. If you are in doubt about any company-branded email, find their real site and visit it. Most have gotten over their shyness about scammers trying to steal their identities, and are quite up front about the attempts being made to con readers.

* [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013]
* [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013]
* [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013]
* [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013]
* [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013]
* [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013]
* [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013]
* [http://www.nab.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/nab/nab/home/personal_finance/12/13/9/1 NAB phishing e-mails - 5th Aug 2013]
* [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/shopping-scams-rise-65-per-cent Shopping Scams up by 65% - 8th Aug 2013]

== Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically ==
We note here some recently seen scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously noted as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email. Please '''Do NOT follow the link or open the PDF attachment!''' in any such emails!

==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Pcug email users ====
The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note
* the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>PCUG Service Administrator <andreia@gr1editora.com.br></code>
* PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address
* the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website
* the grammar is woeful!

Date: Thu, 30 Jan 2014 00:12:08 -0200
From: PCUG Service Administrator <andreia@gr1editora.com.br>
To: undisclosed-recipients: ;
Subject: [PCUG] Pcug email users

This is to inform all Pcug email users that we have change to a
secured email system to help us fight against spam emails so you are
therefore authorise to click the link below to avoid any problems or
spam attack to your email address. Log-in to your email with your Pcug
log-in account details to avoid any problems to your account you must
complete this process.

<nowiki>http://securedpcug.form2pay.com/131173.html</nowiki>
----

==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Dear Pcug User ====
The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note
* the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>Pcug University <andreia@gr1editora.com.br></code>
* PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address
* the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website
* the grammar is woeful!

From: Pcug University <andreia@gr1editora.com.br>
Subject: Dear Pcug User
Date: 27 January 2014 3:27:38 AM AEDT
To: undisclosed-recipients:;

--
Dear Pcug User

There is an emergence from our data base we are currently carrying-out a
maintenance process to your mailbox account, to complete this process
Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link
fill and click on submit.

<nowiki>http://webupdate.form2pay.com/130542.html</nowiki>

(copy it and paste it into your web browser's bar. then fill and submit for
complete update)

This process will help us to fight against spam mails. Failure to complete
this process, will have your mailbox account deleted from our database.

Thanks
HELP DESK
----

==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - SCAMwatch warning to smartphone and tablet users ====
SCAMwatch is warning consumers to beware of scammers targeting their smartphones and tablet devices with the computer virus scam.

This scam has caught out many Australians in recent years, with victims receiving a call out of the blue from a ‘technical specialist’ claiming that their computer has a virus. The caller convinces the victim to provide them with remote access to their
computer, claims that their security has been compromised, and then offers to fix it on the spot – for a fee.

In a new twist, scammers are claiming to be able to fix similar viruses on people’s smartphones or tablets. As with the previous version, the scammer will ask you to grant them remote access to your computer, however they will also ask you to connect
your mobile device to the computer so that they can access the device through it.

Don’t let your guard drop by a sense of urgency – these scammers are well-versed at applying high pressure sales tactics to incite fear and anxiety that your device has been compromised and must be fixed immediately. In fact, the only way that you risk your device’s security is by providing access in the first place. If you hand over your money, your device will not receive the promised protection.

Ask yourself: why would a business call and offer to fix your computer unless you contacted them in the first place? If you store personal information on your phone, tablet or computer, keep it out of the hands of scammers – never provide remote access to a stranger.

How the scam works:-

*You receive a call out of the blue from someone claiming to be a technical support specialist, who informs you that your computer, smartphone or tablet has been compromised by malicious software.
* The caller may claim to represent a reputable business such as Microsoft, Windows, Telstra or Bigpond.
*They may also sound like an expert as they use technical jargon.
*The ‘technician’ will ask you to provide them with remote access to your computer so that they can run a scan.
*If they claim the virus is on your smartphone or tablet, they will ask you to connect the device to your computer so that they can access the device through it.
*If you provide them with access, they will claim that the scan has indeed detected a virus, and any information stored on the device has been compromised.
*The ‘technician’ will then claim that they can restore your computer’s security on the spot – for a fee. They will offer to install anti-virus software on to your device for a one-off payment that typically ranges from $100 to $300.
*If you hesitate to agree, the caller will be very persistent and try to evoke a sense of urgency by claiming that anything could happen to your device if you don’t fix it now.
*To pay, they will ask for your credit card or banking details, or to transfer them money.
*If you provide remote access to the caller, only then are your compromising your device and personal information. If you hand over your money, your device will never receive the promised security software.

Protect yourself

*If you receive a phone call from someone claiming there is something wrong with your computer or mobile device’s security, just hang up.
*Never give a stranger remote access to your mobile device or computer.
*Do not give out your personal, credit card or online account details over the phone unless you initiated the call and the phone number came from a trusted source.
*Make sure your computer is protected with anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and a good firewall - but only purchase the software from a source that you know and trust.
*If you think your mobile device or computer’s security has been compromised, seek out help or advice from a qualified and reputable technician.
*If you think you have provided your account details to a scammer, contact your bank or financial institution immediately.

Report

You can report scams to the ACCC via the report a scam page on SCAMwatch or by calling 1300 795 995.
----

==== SCAM - Nov 2013 - Subject: Dear Pcug User, - From: Pcug Administrator ====
The following scam is being sent to members circa November 2013. Note
* the actual from address is a brazilian account! alexandre@dilk.com.br
* PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address
* the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website
* the grammar is woeful!

'''Do NOT follow the link and provide requested details!'''

From: Pcug Administrator [mailto:alexandre@dilk.com.br]
Sent: Tuesday, 19 November 2013 2:25 PM
To: undisclosed-recipients:
Subject: Dear Pcug User,

Dear Pcug User,

A phish attempt, banned phrase or sensitive information was detected in a message sent to you and the original message has been quarantined.
This message is a copy of the original with the content replaced with this text. The subject line and sender information has been unaltered from the original.
Please you are to re-validate your pcug.org.au email address immediately.
Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link then fill and submit.

<nowiki>http://pcug.form2go.com/125479.html</nowiki>

Thanks.
Help Desk
----

==== SCAM - Sep 2013 - No Subject - PCUG Network Manager ====
The following scam is being sent to members circa September 2013. Note the actual from address is a gmail account!: sb.netwrk@gmail.com

'''Do not open the PDF attachment!'''

From: PCUG Network Manager <sb.netwrk@gmail.com>
To: undisclosed-recipients:;
Subject:

In order to comply with PCUG Corporate Policy, it is your responsibility to validate the mailbox ownership and review the access rights due to
unauthorized access to your account by spammers.
modifications to the permissions are required, please complete the Department Mailbox Request Form by viewing the enclosed attachment
and follow instruction therein.

Regards,

PCUG Network Manager
Production Security Compliance
----

==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ====
The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says!

From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki>
To: XXX@pcug.org.au
Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit

Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator,
we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox.

please provide the below credentials :

Email Address:
Username :
Password:
Confirm Password:

System Administrator
----

== See Also ==

* [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams

[[Category:Technical Info]]

Scams

2014-01-31T00:41:50Z

Lpb: /* Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically */ yet another scam email

Scams, especially via [[Spam|spam emails]], bit also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness,

The point of a scam is to somehow gain an advantage from you. It may be remittance of money, or just simply giving away personal details. But if you look at an incoming e-mail and it is correctly addressed to you, then you are already on a list somewhere that is being distributed or sold. Apart from abandoning that particular e-mail address, there little you can do about it.

PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with.

Most reputable organisations (banks, credit unions, trade unions, clubs etc) have similar policies of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages.

This is simply good basic Internet practise.

I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted in the PCUG being placed on blacklists at the time, thus blocking some email delivery for all users. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all!

Please review the links below for further information, and take specific note of the scam emails listed which target PCUG members specifically.

Also, a '''scamwatch''' e-mail list has been set up to allow members to warn other members about, and to discuss, scams/spam. You can subscribe to the list by going to the PCUG's [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch scamwatch listinfo page].

See also our page with more practical guidance on [[Handling Email SPAM]]

== More Information ==

For some guidance on how to avoid being caught by scams, see:

* [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online], an Australian government site with lots of useful information
* [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] from the ACCC
* [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] - a number of members have found a subscription to their scamwatch list useful
* [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam report a scam to the ACCC]
* [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - Financial scams recorded by ASIC]
* [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP information on Internet Fraud & scams]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams]

== Scam Warnings ==

Most scams use well-known brands to try to convince you of their trustworthiness - the Australian Government and its agencies, ANZ, NAB, Westpac and Commonwealth banks, Woolworths, Coles and the list goes on. If you are in doubt about any company-branded email, find their real site and visit it. Most have gotten over their shyness about scammers trying to steal their identities, and are quite up front about the attempts being made to con readers.

* [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013]
* [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013]
* [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013]
* [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013]
* [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013]
* [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013]
* [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013]
* [http://www.nab.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/nab/nab/home/personal_finance/12/13/9/1 NAB phishing e-mails - 5th Aug 2013]
* [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/shopping-scams-rise-65-per-cent Shopping Scams up by 65% - 8th Aug 2013]

== Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically ==
We note here some recently seen scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously noted as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email. Please '''Do NOT follow the link or open the PDF attachment!''' in any such emails!

==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Pcug email users ====
The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note
* the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>PCUG Service Administrator <andreia@gr1editora.com.br></code>
* PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address
* the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website
* the grammar is woeful!

Date: Thu, 30 Jan 2014 00:12:08 -0200
From: PCUG Service Administrator <andreia@gr1editora.com.br>
To: undisclosed-recipients: ;
Subject: [PCUG] Pcug email users

This is to inform all Pcug email users that we have change to a
secured email system to help us fight against spam emails so you are
therefore authorise to click the link below to avoid any problems or
spam attack to your email address. Log-in to your email with your Pcug
log-in account details to avoid any problems to your account you must
complete this process.

<nowiki>http://securedpcug.form2pay.com/131173.html</nowiki>
----

==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Dear Pcug User ====
The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note
* the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>Pcug University <andreia@gr1editora.com.br></code>
* PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address
* the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website
* the grammar is woeful!

From: Pcug University <andreia@gr1editora.com.br>
Subject: Dear Pcug User
Date: 27 January 2014 3:27:38 AM AEDT
To: undisclosed-recipients:;

--
Dear Pcug User

There is an emergence from our data base we are currently carrying-out a
maintenance process to your mailbox account, to complete this process
Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link
fill and click on submit.

<nowiki>http://webupdate.form2pay.com/130542.html</nowiki>

(copy it and paste it into your web browser's bar. then fill and submit for
complete update)

This process will help us to fight against spam mails. Failure to complete
this process, will have your mailbox account deleted from our database.

Thanks
HELP DESK
----

==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - SCAMwatch warning to smartphone and tablet users ====
SCAMwatch is warning consumers to beware of scammers targeting their smartphones and tablet devices with the computer virus scam.

This scam has caught out many Australians in recent years, with victims receiving a call out of the blue from a ‘technical specialist’ claiming that their computer has a virus. The caller convinces the victim to provide them with remote access to their
computer, claims that their security has been compromised, and then offers to fix it on the spot – for a fee.

In a new twist, scammers are claiming to be able to fix similar viruses on people’s smartphones or tablets. As with the previous version, the scammer will ask you to grant them remote access to your computer, however they will also ask you to connect
your mobile device to the computer so that they can access the device through it.

Don’t let your guard drop by a sense of urgency – these scammers are well-versed at applying high pressure sales tactics to incite fear and anxiety that your device has been compromised and must be fixed immediately. In fact, the only way that you risk your device’s security is by providing access in the first place. If you hand over your money, your device will not receive the promised protection.

Ask yourself: why would a business call and offer to fix your computer unless you contacted them in the first place? If you store personal information on your phone, tablet or computer, keep it out of the hands of scammers – never provide remote access to a stranger.

How the scam works:-

*You receive a call out of the blue from someone claiming to be a technical support specialist, who informs you that your computer, smartphone or tablet has been compromised by malicious software.
* The caller may claim to represent a reputable business such as Microsoft, Windows, Telstra or Bigpond.
*They may also sound like an expert as they use technical jargon.
*The ‘technician’ will ask you to provide them with remote access to your computer so that they can run a scan.
*If they claim the virus is on your smartphone or tablet, they will ask you to connect the device to your computer so that they can access the device through it.
*If you provide them with access, they will claim that the scan has indeed detected a virus, and any information stored on the device has been compromised.
*The ‘technician’ will then claim that they can restore your computer’s security on the spot – for a fee. They will offer to install anti-virus software on to your device for a one-off payment that typically ranges from $100 to $300.
*If you hesitate to agree, the caller will be very persistent and try to evoke a sense of urgency by claiming that anything could happen to your device if you don’t fix it now.
*To pay, they will ask for your credit card or banking details, or to transfer them money.
*If you provide remote access to the caller, only then are your compromising your device and personal information. If you hand over your money, your device will never receive the promised security software.

Protect yourself

*If you receive a phone call from someone claiming there is something wrong with your computer or mobile device’s security, just hang up.
*Never give a stranger remote access to your mobile device or computer.
*Do not give out your personal, credit card or online account details over the phone unless you initiated the call and the phone number came from a trusted source.
*Make sure your computer is protected with anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and a good firewall - but only purchase the software from a source that you know and trust.
*If you think your mobile device or computer’s security has been compromised, seek out help or advice from a qualified and reputable technician.
*If you think you have provided your account details to a scammer, contact your bank or financial institution immediately.

Report

You can report scams to the ACCC via the report a scam page on SCAMwatch or by calling 1300 795 995.
----

==== SCAM - Nov 2013 - Subject: Dear Pcug User, - From: Pcug Administrator ====
The following scam is being sent to members circa November 2013. Note
* the actual from address is a brazilian account! alexandre@dilk.com.br
* PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address
* the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website
* the grammar is woeful!

'''Do NOT follow the link and provide requested details!'''

From: Pcug Administrator [mailto:alexandre@dilk.com.br]
Sent: Tuesday, 19 November 2013 2:25 PM
To: undisclosed-recipients:
Subject: Dear Pcug User,

Dear Pcug User,

A phish attempt, banned phrase or sensitive information was detected in a message sent to you and the original message has been quarantined.
This message is a copy of the original with the content replaced with this text. The subject line and sender information has been unaltered from the original.
Please you are to re-validate your pcug.org.au email address immediately.
Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link then fill and submit.

<nowiki>http://pcug.form2go.com/125479.html</nowiki>

Thanks.
Help Desk
----

==== SCAM - Sep 2013 - No Subject - PCUG Network Manager ====
The following scam is being sent to members circa September 2013. Note the actual from address is a gmail account!: sb.netwrk@gmail.com

'''Do not open the PDF attachment!'''

From: PCUG Network Manager <sb.netwrk@gmail.com>
To: undisclosed-recipients:;
Subject:

In order to comply with PCUG Corporate Policy, it is your responsibility to validate the mailbox ownership and review the access rights due to
unauthorized access to your account by spammers.
modifications to the permissions are required, please complete the Department Mailbox Request Form by viewing the enclosed attachment
and follow instruction therein.

Regards,

PCUG Network Manager
Production Security Compliance
----

==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ====
The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says!

From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki>
To: XXX@pcug.org.au
Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit

Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator,
we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox.

please provide the below credentials :

Email Address:
Username :
Password:
Confirm Password:

System Administrator
----

== See Also ==

* [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams

[[Category:Technical Info]]

Scams

2014-01-30T23:26:36Z

Lpb: /* Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically */ Add latest spam examples

Scams, especially via [[Spam|spam emails]], bit also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness,

The point of a scam is to somehow gain an advantage from you. It may be remittance of money, or just simply giving away personal details. But if you look at an incoming e-mail and it is correctly addressed to you, then you are already on a list somewhere that is being distributed or sold. Apart from abandoning that particular e-mail address, there little you can do about it.

PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with.

Most reputable organisations (banks, credit unions, trade unions, clubs etc) have similar policies of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages.

This is simply good basic Internet practise.

I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted in the PCUG being placed on blacklists at the time, thus blocking some email delivery for all users. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all!

Please review the links below for further information, and take specific note of the scam emails listed which target PCUG members specifically.

Also, a '''scamwatch''' e-mail list has been set up to allow members to warn other members about, and to discuss, scams/spam. You can subscribe to the list by going to the PCUG's [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch scamwatch listinfo page].

See also our page with more practical guidance on [[Handling Email SPAM]]

== More Information ==

For some guidance on how to avoid being caught by scams, see:

* [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online], an Australian government site with lots of useful information
* [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] from the ACCC
* [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] - a number of members have found a subscription to their scamwatch list useful
* [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam report a scam to the ACCC]
* [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - Financial scams recorded by ASIC]
* [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP information on Internet Fraud & scams]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams]

== Scam Warnings ==

Most scams use well-known brands to try to convince you of their trustworthiness - the Australian Government and its agencies, ANZ, NAB, Westpac and Commonwealth banks, Woolworths, Coles and the list goes on. If you are in doubt about any company-branded email, find their real site and visit it. Most have gotten over their shyness about scammers trying to steal their identities, and are quite up front about the attempts being made to con readers.

* [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013]
* [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013]
* [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013]
* [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013]
* [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013]
* [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013]
* [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013]
* [http://www.nab.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/nab/nab/home/personal_finance/12/13/9/1 NAB phishing e-mails - 5th Aug 2013]
* [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/shopping-scams-rise-65-per-cent Shopping Scams up by 65% - 8th Aug 2013]

== Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically ==
We note here some recently seen scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously noted as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email. Please '''Do NOT follow the link or open the PDF attachment!''' in any such emails!

==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Dear Pcug User ====
The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note
* the actual from address is a brazilian account! <code>Pcug University <andreia@gr1editora.com.br></code>
* PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address
* the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website
* the grammar is woeful!

From: Pcug University <andreia@gr1editora.com.br>
Subject: Dear Pcug User
Date: 27 January 2014 3:27:38 AM AEDT
To: undisclosed-recipients:;

--
Dear Pcug User

There is an emergence from our data base we are currently carrying-out a
maintenance process to your mailbox account, to complete this process
Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link
fill and click on submit.

<nowiki>http://webupdate.form2pay.com/130542.html</nowiki>

(copy it and paste it into your web browser's bar. then fill and submit for
complete update)

This process will help us to fight against spam mails. Failure to complete
this process, will have your mailbox account deleted from our database.

Thanks
HELP DESK
----

==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - SCAMwatch warning to smartphone and tablet users ====
SCAMwatch is warning consumers to beware of scammers targeting their smartphones and tablet devices with the computer virus scam.

This scam has caught out many Australians in recent years, with victims receiving a call out of the blue from a ‘technical specialist’ claiming that their computer has a virus. The caller convinces the victim to provide them with remote access to their
computer, claims that their security has been compromised, and then offers to fix it on the spot – for a fee.

In a new twist, scammers are claiming to be able to fix similar viruses on people’s smartphones or tablets. As with the previous version, the scammer will ask you to grant them remote access to your computer, however they will also ask you to connect
your mobile device to the computer so that they can access the device through it.

Don’t let your guard drop by a sense of urgency – these scammers are well-versed at applying high pressure sales tactics to incite fear and anxiety that your device has been compromised and must be fixed immediately. In fact, the only way that you risk your device’s security is by providing access in the first place. If you hand over your money, your device will not receive the promised protection.

Ask yourself: why would a business call and offer to fix your computer unless you contacted them in the first place? If you store personal information on your phone, tablet or computer, keep it out of the hands of scammers – never provide remote access to a stranger.

How the scam works:-

*You receive a call out of the blue from someone claiming to be a technical support specialist, who informs you that your computer, smartphone or tablet has been compromised by malicious software.
* The caller may claim to represent a reputable business such as Microsoft, Windows, Telstra or Bigpond.
*They may also sound like an expert as they use technical jargon.
*The ‘technician’ will ask you to provide them with remote access to your computer so that they can run a scan.
*If they claim the virus is on your smartphone or tablet, they will ask you to connect the device to your computer so that they can access the device through it.
*If you provide them with access, they will claim that the scan has indeed detected a virus, and any information stored on the device has been compromised.
*The ‘technician’ will then claim that they can restore your computer’s security on the spot – for a fee. They will offer to install anti-virus software on to your device for a one-off payment that typically ranges from $100 to $300.
*If you hesitate to agree, the caller will be very persistent and try to evoke a sense of urgency by claiming that anything could happen to your device if you don’t fix it now.
*To pay, they will ask for your credit card or banking details, or to transfer them money.
*If you provide remote access to the caller, only then are your compromising your device and personal information. If you hand over your money, your device will never receive the promised security software.

Protect yourself

*If you receive a phone call from someone claiming there is something wrong with your computer or mobile device’s security, just hang up.
*Never give a stranger remote access to your mobile device or computer.
*Do not give out your personal, credit card or online account details over the phone unless you initiated the call and the phone number came from a trusted source.
*Make sure your computer is protected with anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and a good firewall - but only purchase the software from a source that you know and trust.
*If you think your mobile device or computer’s security has been compromised, seek out help or advice from a qualified and reputable technician.
*If you think you have provided your account details to a scammer, contact your bank or financial institution immediately.

Report

You can report scams to the ACCC via the report a scam page on SCAMwatch or by calling 1300 795 995.
----

==== SCAM - Nov 2013 - Subject: Dear Pcug User, - From: Pcug Administrator ====
The following scam is being sent to members circa November 2013. Note
* the actual from address is a brazilian account! alexandre@dilk.com.br
* PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address
* the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website
* the grammar is woeful!

'''Do NOT follow the link and provide requested details!'''

From: Pcug Administrator [mailto:alexandre@dilk.com.br]
Sent: Tuesday, 19 November 2013 2:25 PM
To: undisclosed-recipients:
Subject: Dear Pcug User,

Dear Pcug User,

A phish attempt, banned phrase or sensitive information was detected in a message sent to you and the original message has been quarantined.
This message is a copy of the original with the content replaced with this text. The subject line and sender information has been unaltered from the original.
Please you are to re-validate your pcug.org.au email address immediately.
Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link then fill and submit.

<nowiki>http://pcug.form2go.com/125479.html</nowiki>

Thanks.
Help Desk
----

==== SCAM - Sep 2013 - No Subject - PCUG Network Manager ====
The following scam is being sent to members circa September 2013. Note the actual from address is a gmail account!: sb.netwrk@gmail.com

'''Do not open the PDF attachment!'''

From: PCUG Network Manager <sb.netwrk@gmail.com>
To: undisclosed-recipients:;
Subject:

In order to comply with PCUG Corporate Policy, it is your responsibility to validate the mailbox ownership and review the access rights due to
unauthorized access to your account by spammers.
modifications to the permissions are required, please complete the Department Mailbox Request Form by viewing the enclosed attachment
and follow instruction therein.

Regards,

PCUG Network Manager
Production Security Compliance
----

==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ====
The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says!

From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki>
To: XXX@pcug.org.au
Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit

Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator,
we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox.

please provide the below credentials :

Email Address:
Username :
Password:
Confirm Password:

System Administrator
----

== See Also ==

* [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams

[[Category:Technical Info]]

Internet Access Alternatives

2014-01-29T10:16:02Z

Lpb: /* Cable */ Add note about TransACT ISPs

There are a wide range of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_access Internet Access] alternatives: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. This page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives.

== Lower Usage Access ==

To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage, with both wireless and dialup wired options possible.

=== Mobile Broadband ===

The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodafone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their [http://www.idd.com.au/mobile-providers.php resellers] (Telstra - Aldi, Kogan, Boost, etc; Optus - Amaysim, Virgin, Vaya, Woolworths, etc; Vodafone - PennyTel, GoTalk, etc ). There are a very large number of alternatives available.

You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from, and be mindful of the various communication systems in use (3G-850/NextG, 3G-900, 3G-2100, 4G / LTE) as this will affect the hardware you will require.

There are several possibilities for accessing this service:

* using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless hotspot that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid).

* use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device.

* share your smartphone's data connection - extending the above option, you could configure your tablet/smartphone as a WiFi hotspot to share it's Internet connection with other devices. The details for how to do this depend on the type of device you have. Please be aware that using a mobile phone to share Internet access may incur significant data charges after exceeding the data limit that is set on certain plans - check your monthly data limit and usage frequently with your mobile phone service provider if you choose this option.

=== Fixed Wireless Broadband ===

This service also uses wireless technology, but differs from mobile broadband in having a fixed access node attached to your house (or other building) that provides a direct link back to the provider's wireless tower. Because this uses a fixed node with a larger antenna, it can cover a wider area from the wireless tower, and hence may be able to reach into areas that mobile broadband does not. Availability of this service very much depends on the provider's infrastructure, but in the Canberra region, [http://www.netspeed.com.au/netspeed.cfm?action=p_15 NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband] service supports this option for those in suitable service areas.

=== Dialup ===

A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dialup dialup Internet access] using a modem connected to your phone-line. However this provides limited speeds and download capabilities, and support is being discontinued by ISPs due to increasing costs. This is unlikely to be a long-term option.

== Higher Usage Access ==

To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming.

=== National Broadband Network (NBN) ===

The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Broadband_Network National Broadband Network (NBN)] was originally devised as a fibre to the premises ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTP]) and is currently under construction in Australia. It was planned to provide extremely fast download speeds to 93% of Australian homes and businesses, however this is currently under review following the change of Federal Government and is likely to be reduced in capability. The remaining homes and businesses would be covered using fibre to the node ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTN]), wireless and satellite technologies. Its fibre network will replace most other wired (telephone twisted pair used by ADSL and coaxial cable as used by Bigpond & Optus in some major cities) connections. Once the NBN passes a location, these other wired networks will be shutdown 18 months later. Note that in limited areas of the ACT, Transact already provide a separate FTTP service. This FTTP network is in the process of being purchased by NBN Co.

To access the Internet via the NBN, you need to be connected to the NBN, and have a phone and/or Internet subscription with an NBN provider. More information on the NBN rollout, and NBN providers is available on the [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website].

=== ADSL ===

[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)] provides broadband data access over legacy (twisted-pair) phone-line connections much faster than a dialup modem, whilst still allowing standard phone calls to occur at the same time (unlike using dialup). In recent years this has been the main broadband alternative of choice, with a large number of providers offering it. However in Australia it is expected to be superseded by the NBN rollout in coming years.

To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra).

In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). If you have an existing TransACT ADSL service, then you will most likely want to choose one of the TransACT ISPs, either Grapevine or one of the others (which they don't make very obvious, but there are a number). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them.

=== Cable ===

In the ACT region [http://transact.com.au/ TransACT] provide a cable ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDSL VDSL1 or VDSL2]) service to some areas in Canberra, that can provide phone, broadband Internet and PayTV. These may be a suitable high-speed internet access option for those in cabled areas, with the VDSL2 upgrades being capable of 30-50Mbps. You will want to choose one of the TransACT ISPs, either Grapevine or one of the others (which they don't make very obvious, but there are a number). These services are not subject to the shutdown after NBN rollout.

In some other major cities, Telstra and Optus operate a coaxial cable network that provides similar services. These may be subject to shutdown after the NBN rollout.

== More Information ==

The following sites may assist with additional information. Whirlpool in particular has a large amount of comparative information, and user supplied commentary, on many aspects of Internet access.

* [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice]
* [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/?action=list&loc=8 Whirlpool ACT Service Providers]
* [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/Choosing_a_Broadband_Provider_FAQ Whirlpool Choosing a Broadband Provider FAQ]
* [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/NBN Whirlpool NBN Overview]
* [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website]

[[Category:Technical Info]]
[[Category:Internet]]

Internet Access Alternatives

2014-01-29T10:15:11Z

Lpb: /* ADSL */ Add note about TransACT ISPs

There are a wide range of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_access Internet Access] alternatives: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. This page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives.

== Lower Usage Access ==

To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage, with both wireless and dialup wired options possible.

=== Mobile Broadband ===

The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodafone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their [http://www.idd.com.au/mobile-providers.php resellers] (Telstra - Aldi, Kogan, Boost, etc; Optus - Amaysim, Virgin, Vaya, Woolworths, etc; Vodafone - PennyTel, GoTalk, etc ). There are a very large number of alternatives available.

You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from, and be mindful of the various communication systems in use (3G-850/NextG, 3G-900, 3G-2100, 4G / LTE) as this will affect the hardware you will require.

There are several possibilities for accessing this service:

* using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless hotspot that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid).

* use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device.

* share your smartphone's data connection - extending the above option, you could configure your tablet/smartphone as a WiFi hotspot to share it's Internet connection with other devices. The details for how to do this depend on the type of device you have. Please be aware that using a mobile phone to share Internet access may incur significant data charges after exceeding the data limit that is set on certain plans - check your monthly data limit and usage frequently with your mobile phone service provider if you choose this option.

=== Fixed Wireless Broadband ===

This service also uses wireless technology, but differs from mobile broadband in having a fixed access node attached to your house (or other building) that provides a direct link back to the provider's wireless tower. Because this uses a fixed node with a larger antenna, it can cover a wider area from the wireless tower, and hence may be able to reach into areas that mobile broadband does not. Availability of this service very much depends on the provider's infrastructure, but in the Canberra region, [http://www.netspeed.com.au/netspeed.cfm?action=p_15 NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband] service supports this option for those in suitable service areas.

=== Dialup ===

A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dialup dialup Internet access] using a modem connected to your phone-line. However this provides limited speeds and download capabilities, and support is being discontinued by ISPs due to increasing costs. This is unlikely to be a long-term option.

== Higher Usage Access ==

To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming.

=== National Broadband Network (NBN) ===

The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Broadband_Network National Broadband Network (NBN)] was originally devised as a fibre to the premises ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTP]) and is currently under construction in Australia. It was planned to provide extremely fast download speeds to 93% of Australian homes and businesses, however this is currently under review following the change of Federal Government and is likely to be reduced in capability. The remaining homes and businesses would be covered using fibre to the node ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTN]), wireless and satellite technologies. Its fibre network will replace most other wired (telephone twisted pair used by ADSL and coaxial cable as used by Bigpond & Optus in some major cities) connections. Once the NBN passes a location, these other wired networks will be shutdown 18 months later. Note that in limited areas of the ACT, Transact already provide a separate FTTP service. This FTTP network is in the process of being purchased by NBN Co.

To access the Internet via the NBN, you need to be connected to the NBN, and have a phone and/or Internet subscription with an NBN provider. More information on the NBN rollout, and NBN providers is available on the [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website].

=== ADSL ===

[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)] provides broadband data access over legacy (twisted-pair) phone-line connections much faster than a dialup modem, whilst still allowing standard phone calls to occur at the same time (unlike using dialup). In recent years this has been the main broadband alternative of choice, with a large number of providers offering it. However in Australia it is expected to be superseded by the NBN rollout in coming years.

To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra).

In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). If you have an existing TransACT ADSL service, then you will most likely want to choose one of the TransACT ISPs, either Grapevine or one of the others (which they don't make very obvious, but there are a number). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them.

=== Cable ===

In the ACT region [http://transact.com.au/ TransACT] provide a cable ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDSL VDSL1 or VDSL2]) service to some areas in Canberra, that can provide phone, broadband Internet and PayTV. These may be a suitable high-speed internet access option for those in cabled areas, with the VDSL2 upgrades being capable of 30-50Mbps. These services are not subject to the shutdown after NBN rollout.

In some other major cities, Telstra and Optus operate a coaxial cable network that provides similar services. These may be subject to shutdown after the NBN rollout.

== More Information ==

The following sites may assist with additional information. Whirlpool in particular has a large amount of comparative information, and user supplied commentary, on many aspects of Internet access.

* [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice]
* [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/?action=list&loc=8 Whirlpool ACT Service Providers]
* [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/Choosing_a_Broadband_Provider_FAQ Whirlpool Choosing a Broadband Provider FAQ]
* [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/NBN Whirlpool NBN Overview]
* [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website]

[[Category:Technical Info]]
[[Category:Internet]]

Scams

2013-11-20T04:22:41Z

Lpb: /* Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically */ add mov 2013 scam email details

Technical Info

2013-08-23T03:35:31Z

Lpb: /* E-mail */ Add link to Handling Email SPAM

__NOTOC__
This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest.
Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this.

Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''

Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area.


{|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px"
|class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"|

{|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff"
|-
|style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"|
===Computer Systems===
|-
|style="color:#000"|

==== Android ====
* [[Getting Started with Android]]
* [[Android_App_Recommendations]]
* [[Connect Android to Computer]]

==== Apple ====
* [[iPad_App_Recommendations]]
* [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]]

==== Linux ====
* [[Linux at PCUG Centre]]
* [[Additional HDD]]
* [[Dual-Booting]]
* [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]]
* [[GPT Partitioning]]
* [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]]
* [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]]
* [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]]
* [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]]
* [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]]
*[[Printing]]
*[[Scanning]]

==== Smart devices====
* [[QR codes]]

==== Windows ====
* [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]]
* [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]]
* [[Two Page Display]]
* [[Win7 Snipping Tool]]
* [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]]

==== Windows 8 ====
* [[Do I need Windows 8?]]
* [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]]
* [[Safe mode]]
* [[Install a Start button]]
* [[Confirmation of file delete]]
* [[File history]]
* [[Storage Spaces]]
* [[MRU]]
* [[CD/DVD player]]
* [[Computer icon on desktop]]
|-
|}

|class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"|
{| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff"
|-
|style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"|

=== Internet ===
|-
|style="color:#000"|

==== Access ====
* [[Internet Access Alternatives]]

==== E-mail ====
* [[Scams]]
* [[Spam]]
* [[Handling Email SPAM]]
* [[Long URLs]]
* [[Macros]]

==== Family Trees ====
* [[Sharing Family Tree Information]]

==== Web ====
* [[Webmail attachments]]

==== Web Hosting ====
* [[Web hosting]]
** [[Web hosting in action]]
*** [[A real project]]

==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ====
* [[Web PI]]

==== Wikis ====

* [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]
* [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]
* [[Wiki Skins]]

|-
|}

|class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"|
{| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff"
|style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"|

=== Peripherals ===
|-
|style="color:#000"|

==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ====
* [[Booting from Removable Media]]
* [[Using dotISO Files]]

==== External Drives ====
* [[External_Drives]]

==== Monitors & Projectors ====
* [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]]

==== Printers ====
* [[Cleaning Printheads]]
* [[Parallel Port Printers]]
* [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]]

==== Scanners ====
* [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]]
* [[Scanning via Network]]

|-
|}

|class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"|
{| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff"
|style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"|

=== Software ===
|-
|style="color:#000"|

==== Backup ====
* [[Interesting_Techniques]]

==== Firewall ====
* [[Firewall_Software]]

==== General ====
* [[Interesting_Programs]]
*

==== Image and Photo Editing ====
* [[GIMP]]
*

==== Office ====
* [[OpenOffice]]

==== Vector Drawing ====
* [[OpenOffice Draw]]

* [[Inkscape]]

|-
{| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff"
|style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"|

=== Hardware ===
|-
|style="color:#000"|

==== Disks ====
*[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]]

*[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]]

==== Gateway_Router ====
*[[Commercial]]
*[[DIY]]

==== Programmable Controllers ====
*[[Arduino]]

==== Sub-Compact Computers ====
*[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]]
*[[Raspberry Pi]]
|-
|}
|}

== Related Pages ==
[[Category:Technical Info]]

Handling Email SPAM

2013-08-23T03:34:54Z

Lpb: Prune out definition details that belong in Scams/Spam pages to just Handling Email SPAM details

Some call them spam. Others call them scams. But they both amount to the same thing: unwanted e-mail, some with the potential to fool you into taking an action you might later regret.

== What is Spam ==

Wikipedia defines spam: "Spam is the use of electronic messaging systems to send unsolicited bulk messages, especially advertising, indiscriminately" The term "spam" covers many different styles of unsolicited communication.

You should be suspicious of e-mails, texts, or social media messages that arrive:

* without a subject
* from a sender you do not know or recognize
* offering something too good (even $20 or $50 for a survey) to be true
* without greeting you by name
* containing poorly written English or typos
* having a file attachment of any kind
* containing a link that, when you hover over it with a mouse, displays a link that seems inappropriate in the context
* containing a link inviting you click - unless you have a very good idea where it will lead you
* asking for your personal details.

Also be suspicious where the "To:" list is "undisclosed recipients" but the e-mail attempts familiarity - "with the same last name as you".

'''When in doubt, delete.'''

While this page is about e-mails, don't lose sight of spam that comes from web browsing. Offers of 'free' toolbars, registry cleaners, things to brighten your teeth or reduce flatulence are to be avoided because the offerings are often not what they seem. These often come when you are installing a new app or utility. We tend to fly through such installs, and may regret this later on. Keep your wits about you.

== What Can You Do About E-mail Spam? ==

* Given that preventing Spam is extremely difficult, you can take steps to try and reduce the impact of spam on yourself. However nothing you do can stop it completely (unless you simply decide not to accept any form of electronic communication). Also note that the more effort you make to block spam, the more likely it is that you will also block a fraction of legitimate messages to yourself.

* Make use of your ISP's anti-spam measures. Different ISPs employ varying amounts of spam counter-measures, depending on their resources and philosophy on to what extent they believe in "intercepting/analyzing" their user's e-mails. However, please note that whilst PCUG/TIP utilize some anti-spam measures, we do not employ spam filters that scan the message content, as this requires greater system and administrative resources than we have available. Brief details of the measures we use are given on the TIP Wiki Spam page. Or you can try:
** Make use of the spam filtering capabilities of your e-mail client. Many e-mail clients come with spam filtering capabilities. However you need to activate and train these to make use of them. Once enabled, you need to tag messages as ''spam'' or ''not spam'' so your program learns your selection process. With sufficient training, this can help classify e-mails fairly well. The disadvantage of this approach is that this classification is done on just one system, and doesn't help if you use several systems, and/or webmail to access your e-mail.
** Forward your e-mail to another ISP, or to a large web e-mail provider (eg. gmail, yahoo, hotmail) who have the resources to run more agressive and nuanced e-mail filters, and then access and read your e-mail from this site.
** Use something like Mailwasher...it can stop problem e-mails even getting to you. you will need to 'train' it for what you like and don't, to avoid blocking genuine e-mails.

== A short lesson in looking around for yourself... ==

Here's a recent e-mail that came via Outlook:

[[File:pcug_sc_1.jpg|center|Fig. 1]]

Things looked pretty normal at first, allowing for the small typo. A Verizon user (Verizon is a large communication company) had created a Google document, and wanted to share it. But then I passed the mouse pointer over the link, and the popup box told me that it would take me to 'latinamericainvest.com' where the reader would be connected to a Wordpress file.

By now my suspicions were raised, so I went to look at the headers of the e-mail.
[[File:pcug_sc_2.jpg|center|Fig. 2]]

This looked more useful. The rule here is to read up from the last line. Now, the things to note...

# The e-mail, purporting to come from Google, was written with Outlook Express - Microsoft's free (and deprecated) e-mail client. That certainly seems not to fit with what Google would use.
# "From" looks like the topmost line, and is just meaningless and is often a fudge because...
# Here is where any reply will go. It might be real, but there's no guarantee of that. But look and see if it matches the supposed sender - a mismatch should ring bells.
# These are the transmission 'hops', where the file gets passed along the chain to you. Not a lot of interest, but if you want to know where point 3. originated, put the URL (in this case 216.59.19.48) into something like http://whois.domaintools.com/ you will find it.
# Another 'hop'
# TIP found this came from an source unknown to it, so requested a resend. This is 'greylisting' which TIP has in place.

That's not the sum total of what you might find in a header. But if you do read one, break it up into parts and try to see just what has been delivered to you. If you find anything worth sharing, please post it here.

== Finding headers ==

Open the e-mail you want to inspect, then:
* In Microsoft Office Outlook, looks for ''Tags'' on the ribbon, and click the small downpointing arrow in the lower right-hand corner of the Tags panel
* In Thunderbird:
# For the open e-mail, select ''View Source'' from the ''Other Actions'' menu
# To reveal all headers that you open subsequently, click on ''View'' in the top menu, then ''Headers'' then tick ''All''
* In Windows Mail, Live Mail and Outlook Express:
# Highlight the message of interest
# Right click on the message
# Select ''Properties'' in the context menu
# Switch to the ''Details'' tab
* In Evolution, click on ''View'' in the top menu, then ''All Message Headers''
* In Forte Agent, tap the H key
* In Claws-Mail, do Ctrl+H
* In Pegasus Mail, right-click on the message and select ''Message headers...'' from the window that opens.
* In Mac Mail, click ''View'', select ''Message/All Headers''

== Odd things ==

Google's Gmail service omits the sender IP address information from all headers. Instead, only the IP address of Gmail's mail server is shown in Received: from. This means it is impossible to find a sender's true IP address in a received Gmail.

Microsoft's Hotmail service provides an extended header line called "X-Originating-IP" that contains the sender's actual IP address.

E-mails from Yahoo contain the sender's IP address in the last Received: entry.

[[Category:Technical Info]]

Spam and scams: unwanted e-mail

2013-08-23T03:33:00Z

Lpb: moved Spam and scams: unwanted e-mail to Handling Email SPAM: separating out info on how to handle spam/scams from existing Spam and Scams pages

#REDIRECT [[Handling Email SPAM]]

Handling Email SPAM

2013-08-23T03:33:00Z

Lpb: moved Spam and scams: unwanted e-mail to Handling Email SPAM: separating out info on how to handle spam/scams from existing Spam and Scams pages

Some call them spam. Others call them scams. But they both amount to the same thing: unwanted e-mail, some with the potential to fool you into taking an action you might later regret.

If you want a quick list of things to look for, go straight to [[#Spam]]

== But first... ==

Let's dispel a myth. Provided that your e-mail client is not configured to download linked images with incoming mail, no e-mail that lands in your Inbox is ''instantly'' harmful. It is what you do with it that can lead to problems. But your careful attention to detail will help you avoid them.

== Scams ==

Scams, especially via e-mail but also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a high degree of awareness about them and their potential to be harmful.

The point of a scam is to somehow gain an advantage from you. It may be remittance of money, or just simply giving away personal details. But if you look at an incoming e-mail and it is correctly addressed to you, then you are already on a list somewhere that is being distributed or sold. Apart from abandoning that particular e-mail address, there little you can do about it.

PCUG clearly states that we will never ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via e-mail. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you can confirm who you are working with.

Most reputable organisations (banks, credit unions, trade unions, clubs etc) have similar policies of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages.

A few PCUG members have fallen for such scams. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM e-mails, which resulted in PCUG being placed on blacklists for a time, thus blocking some e-mail delivery for all users. So please exercise caution, as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all!

== References ==

For some guidance on how to avoid being caught by scams, see:

* Stay Smart Online,[http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/] the Australian government site, or report a scam [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam]
* ACCC Scamwatch free book [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams] or report a scam to them [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam]
* Financial scams recorded by ASIC [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/]
* AFP information [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx]
* Wikipedia's lists [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams]

(as at 8 Aug 2013)

== Scam Warnings ==

Most scams use well-known brands to try to convince you of their trustworthiness - the Australian Government and its agencies, ANZ, NAB, Westpac and Commonwealth banks, Woolworths, Coles and the list goes on. If you are in doubt about any company-branded email, find their real site and visit it. Most have gotten over their shyness about scammers trying to steal their identities, and are quite up front about the attempts being made to con readers.

== Spam ==

Wikipedia defines spam: "Spam is the use of electronic messaging systems to send unsolicited bulk messages, especially advertising, indiscriminately" The term "spam" covers many different styles of unsolicited communication.

You should be suspicious of e-mails, texts, or social media messages that arrive:

* without a subject
* from a sender you do not know or recognize
* offering something too good (even $20 or $50 for a survey) to be true
* without greeting you by name
* containing poorly written English or typos
* having a file attachment of any kind
* containing a link that, when you hover over it with a mouse, displays a link that seems inappropriate in the context
* containing a link inviting you click - unless you have a very good idea where it will lead you
* asking for your personal details.

Also be suspicious where the "To:" list is "undisclosed recipients" but the e-mail attempts familiarity - "with the same last name as you".

'''When in doubt, delete.'''

While this page is about e-mails, don't lose sight of spam that comes from web browsing. Offers of 'free' toolbars, registry cleaners, things to brighten your teeth or reduce flatulence are to be avoided because the offerings are often not what they seem. These often come when you are installing a new app or utility. We tend to fly through such installs, and may regret this later on. Keep your wits about you.

== What Can You Do About E-mail Spam? ==

* Given that preventing Spam is extremely difficult, you can take steps to try and reduce the impact of spam on yourself. However nothing you do can stop it completely (unless you simply decide not to accept any form of electronic communication). Also note that the more effort you make to block spam, the more likely it is that you will also block a fraction of legitimate messages to yourself.

* Make use of your ISP's anti-spam measures. Different ISPs employ varying amounts of spam counter-measures, depending on their resources and philosophy on to what extent they believe in "intercepting/analyzing" their user's e-mails. However, please note that whilst PCUG/TIP utilize some anti-spam measures, we do not employ spam filters that scan the message content, as this requires greater system and administrative resources than we have available. Brief details of the measures we use are given on the TIP Wiki Spam page. Or you can try:
** Make use of the spam filtering capabilities of your e-mail client. Many e-mail clients come with spam filtering capabilities. However you need to activate and train these to make use of them. Once enabled, you need to tag messages as ''spam'' or ''not spam'' so your program learns your selection process. With sufficient training, this can help classify e-mails fairly well. The disadvantage of this approach is that this classification is done on just one system, and doesn't help if you use several systems, and/or webmail to access your e-mail.
** Forward your e-mail to another ISP, or to a large web e-mail provider (eg. gmail, yahoo, hotmail) who have the resources to run more agressive and nuanced e-mail filters, and then access and read your e-mail from this site.
** Use something like Mailwasher...it can stop problem e-mails even getting to you. you will need to 'train' it for what you like and don't, to avoid blocking genuine e-mails.

== A short lesson in looking around for yourself... ==

Here's a recent e-mail that came via Outlook:

[[File:pcug_sc_1.jpg|center|Fig. 1]]

Things looked pretty normal at first, allowing for the small typo. A Verizon user (Verizon is a large communication company) had created a Google document, and wanted to share it. But then I passed the mouse pointer over the link, and the popup box told me that it would take me to 'latinamericainvest.com' where the reader would be connected to a Wordpress file.

By now my suspicions were raised, so I went to look at the headers of the e-mail.
[[File:pcug_sc_2.jpg|center|Fig. 2]]

This looked more useful. The rule here is to read up from the last line. Now, the things to note...

# The e-mail, purporting to come from Google, was written with Outlook Express - Microsoft's free (and deprecated) e-mail client. That certainly seems not to fit with what Google would use.
# "From" looks like the topmost line, and is just meaningless and is often a fudge because...
# Here is where any reply will go. It might be real, but there's no guarantee of that. But look and see if it matches the supposed sender - a mismatch should ring bells.
# These are the transmission 'hops', where the file gets passed along the chain to you. Not a lot of interest, but if you want to know where point 3. originated, put the URL (in this case 216.59.19.48) into something like http://whois.domaintools.com/ you will find it.
# Another 'hop'
# TIP found this came from an source unknown to it, so requested a resend. This is 'greylisting' which TIP has in place.

That's not the sum total of what you might find in a header. But if you do read one, break it up into parts and try to see just what has been delivered to you. If you find anything worth sharing, please post it here.

== Finding headers ==

Open the e-mail you want to inspect, then:
* In Microsoft Office Outlook, looks for ''Tags'' on the ribbon, and click the small downpointing arrow in the lower right-hand corner of the Tags panel
* In Thunderbird:
# For the open e-mail, select ''View Source'' from the ''Other Actions'' menu
# To reveal all headers that you open subsequently, click on ''View'' in the top menu, then ''Headers'' then tick ''All''
* In Windows Mail, Live Mail and Outlook Express:
# Highlight the message of interest
# Right click on the message
# Select ''Properties'' in the context menu
# Switch to the ''Details'' tab
* In Evolution, click on ''View'' in the top menu, then ''All Message Headers''
* In Forte Agent, tap the H key
* In Claws-Mail, do Ctrl+H
* In Pegasus Mail, right-click on the message and select ''Message headers...'' from the window that opens.
* In Mac Mail, click ''View'', select ''Message/All Headers''

== Odd things ==

Google's Gmail service omits the sender IP address information from all headers. Instead, only the IP address of Gmail's mail server is shown in Received: from. This means it is impossible to find a sender's true IP address in a received Gmail.

Microsoft's Hotmail service provides an extended header line called "X-Originating-IP" that contains the sender's actual IP address.

E-mails from Yahoo contain the sender's IP address in the last Received: entry.

[[Category:Technical Info]]

Spam

2013-08-23T03:31:56Z

Lpb: Add link to Scams page, some refs & a bit from Paul's contribution

Unwanted e-mail, some with the potential to fool you into taking an action you might later regret, are an unfortunate fact of life in the electronic world of the Internet. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness

== What is Spam ==

Wikipedia defines spam: "Spam is the use of electronic messaging systems to send unsolicited bulk messages, especially advertising, indiscriminately" The term "spam" covers many different styles of unsolicited communication. Email Spam is also often used to spread [[Scams]].

You should be suspicious of e-mails, texts, or social media messages that arrive:

* without a subject
* from a sender you do not know or recognize
* offering something too good (even $20 or $50 for a survey) to be true
* without greeting you by name
* containing poorly written English or typos
* having a file attachment of any kind
* containing a link that, when you hover over it with a mouse, displays a link that seems inappropriate in the context
* containing a link inviting you click - unless you have a very good idea where it will lead you
* asking for your personal details.

Also be suspicious where the "To:" list is "undisclosed recipients" but the e-mail attempts familiarity - "with the same last name as you".

'''When in doubt, delete.'''

While this page is about e-mails, don't lose sight of spam that comes from web browsing. Offers of 'free' toolbars, registry cleaners, things to brighten your teeth or reduce flatulence are to be avoided because the offerings are often not what they seem. These often come when you are installing a new app or utility. We tend to fly through such installs, and may regret this later on. Keep your wits about you.

== Spam Email Warning Alerts ==

Some selected Spam email warnings we believe are of relevance to our members include:

* [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2160328&a=38192&k=5df71e7 Royal Baby Phishing E-mails]

== Things You Can Do To Try and Reduce Email Spam ==

Given that preventing Spam is extremely difficult (it wouldn't be the major concern that it is were this not so), you can take steps to try and reduce the impact of spam to yourself. However nothing you do can stop it completely (unless you simply decide not to accept '''any''' form of electronic communication). Also note that the more effort you take to block spam, the more likely it is that you will also block a fraction of legitimate messages to yourself.

# make use of your ISP's anti-spam measures. Different ISPs employ varying amounts of spam counter-measures, depending on their resources and philosophy on to what extent they believe in "intercepting/analyzing" their user's emails. Please note that whilst [http://www.tip.net.au/ PCUG/TIP] utilize some anti-spam measures, we '''do not''' employ spam filters that scan the message content, as this requires greater system and admin resources than we have available. Brief details of the measures we use are given on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Spam TIP Wiki Spam page]. If these are not sufficient for your requirements, then you need to use some of the following alternatives.
# make use of the spam filtering capabilities of your email client. Many email clients come with spam filtering capabilities. However you need to activate and train these to make use of them. Once enabled, you need to tag messages as ''spam'' or ''not spam'' so your program learns what you regard as spam (or not). With sufficient training, this can help classify emails fairly well, as you wish. The disadvantage of this approach is that this classification is done on just one system, and doesn't help if you use several systems, and/or [https://www.tip.net.au/webmail/ webmail] to access your email.
# [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email_Forwarding Forward your Email] to another ISP, or to a large web-email provider (eg. gmail, yahoo, hotmail) who have the resources to run more agressive and nuanced email filters, and then access and read your email from this site.

See also our page with more practical guidance on [[Handling Email SPAM]]

== Further Information ==

Sites you can visit to find out more about "spam" are:-

* [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online], an Australian government site with lots of useful information
* [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] - a number of members have found a subscription to their scamwatch list useful
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spam_(electronic) Wikipedia Spam page]
* [https://www.privacyrights.org/fs/fs20-spam.htm Anti-Spam Consumer Resources and Information]
* [http://www.spamtrackers.eu/wiki/index.php/Main_Page Spamtrackers SpamWiki]

== See Also ==

* [[Scams]] - for details on scams, which may well be spread by spam

[[Category:Technical Info]]

Scams

2013-08-23T03:24:35Z

Lpb: Copy in some of Paul's changes

Technical Info

2013-08-14T00:13:04Z

Lpb: /* E-mail */ flip order of Scams & Spam

__NOTOC__
This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest.
Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this.

Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''

Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area.


{|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px"
|class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"|

{|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff"
|-
|style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"|
===Computer Systems===
|-
|style="color:#000"|

==== Android ====
* [[Getting Started with Android]]
* [[Android_App_Recommendations]]
* [[Connect Android to Computer]]

==== Apple ====
* [[iPad_App_Recommendations]]
* [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]]

==== Linux ====
* [[Linux at PCUG Centre]]
* [[Additional HDD]]
* [[Dual-Booting]]
* [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]]
* [[GPT Partitioning]]
* [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]]
* [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]]
* [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]]
* [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]]
* [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]]
*[[Printing]]
*[[Scanning]]

==== Smart devices====
* [[QR codes]]

==== Windows ====
* [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]]
* [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]]
* [[Two Page Display]]
* [[Win7 Snipping Tool]]
* [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]]

==== Windows 8 ====
* [[Do I need Windows 8?]]
* [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]]
* [[Safe mode]]
* [[Install a Start button]]
* [[Confirmation of file delete]]
* [[File history]]
* [[Storage Spaces]]
* [[MRU]]
* [[CD/DVD player]]
* [[Computer icon on desktop]]
|-
|}

|class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"|
{| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff"
|-
|style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"|

=== Internet ===
|-
|style="color:#000"|

==== Access ====
* [[Internet Access Alternatives]]

==== E-mail ====
* [[Scams]]
* [[Spam]]
* [[Long URLs]]
* [[Macros]]

==== Family Trees ====
* [[Sharing Family Tree Information]]

==== Web ====
* [[Webmail attachments]]

==== Web Hosting ====
* [[Web hosting]]
** [[Web hosting in action]]
*** [[A real project]]

==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ====
* [[Web PI]]

==== Wikis ====

* [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]
* [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]
* [[Wiki Skins]]

|-
|}

|class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"|
{| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff"
|style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"|

=== Peripherals ===
|-
|style="color:#000"|

==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ====
* [[Booting from Removable Media]]
* [[Using dotISO Files]]

==== External Drives ====
* [[External_Drives]]

==== Monitors & Projectors ====
* [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]]

==== Printers ====
* [[Cleaning Printheads]]
* [[Parallel Port Printers]]
* [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]]

==== Scanners ====
* [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]]
* [[Scanning via Network]]

|-
|}

|class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"|
{| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff"
|style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"|

=== Software ===
|-
|style="color:#000"|

==== Backup ====
* [[Interesting_Techniques]]

==== Firewall ====
* [[Firewall_Software]]

==== General ====
* [[Interesting_Programs]]
*

==== Image and Photo Editing ====
* [[GIMP]]
*

==== Office ====
* [[OpenOffice]]

==== Vector Drawing ====
* [[OpenOffice Draw]]

* [[Inkscape]]

|-
{| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff"
|style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"|

=== Hardware ===
|-
|style="color:#000"|

==== Disks ====
*[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]]

*[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]]

==== Gateway_Router ====
*[[Commercial]]
*[[DIY]]

==== Programmable Controllers ====
*[[Arduino]]

==== Sub-Compact Computers ====
*[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]]
*[[Raspberry Pi]]
|-
|}
|}

== Related Pages ==
[[Category:Technical Info]]

Scams

2013-08-06T02:39:28Z

Lpb: Add note about scamwatch mailing list, plus tweak wordings

Scams, especially via email, bit also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness,

PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with.

More generally, most reputatable organisations have similar policies, of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages.

This is simply good basic Internet practise.

I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted in the PCUG being placed on blacklists at the time, thus blocking some email delivery for all users. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all!

Please review the links below for further information, and take specific note of the scam emails listed which target PCUG members specifically.

Also, a '''scamwatch''' e-mail list has been set up to allow members to warn other members about, and to discuss, scams/spam. You can subscribe to the list by going to the PCUG's [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch scamwatch listinfo page].

== More Information ==

For info on how to avoid being caught by scams, see:

* [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online]
* [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams Get the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"]
* [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] - a number of members have found a subscription to their scamwatch list useful
* [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam To report a scam to the ACCC]
* [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - For financial scams]
* [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP Internet Fraud & scams]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams]

== Scam Warnings ==
* [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013]
* [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013]
* [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013]
* [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013]
* [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013]
* [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013]
* [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013]
* [http://www.nab.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/nab/nab/home/personal_finance/12/13/9/1 NAB phishing e-mails 5th Aug 2013]

== Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically ==
We note here some recently seen scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously noted as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email.

==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ====
The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says!

From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki>
To: XXX@pcug.org.au
Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit

Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator,
we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox.

please provide the below credentials :

Email Address:
Username :
Password:
Confirm Password:

System Administrator
----

== See Also ==

* [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams

[[Category:Technical Info]]

Getting Started with Android

2013-08-01T01:54:10Z

Lpb: typo ion link

This page is for members to suggest common hints and tips they find useful, as well as supplying links to great resources on the net.

== Useful References ==

* [http://www.howtogeek.com/163624/welcome-to-android-a-beginners-guide-to-getting-started-with-android/ A Beginner’s Guide to Getting Started With Android (How-To Geek)]

[[Category:Technical Info]]
[[Category:Recommendations]]

Getting Started with Android

2013-08-01T01:51:49Z

Lpb: add howto geek link

This page is for members to suggest common hints and tips they find useful, as well as supplying links to great resources on the net.

== Useful References ==

* [http://www.howtogeek.com/163624/welcome-to-android-a-beginners-guide-to-getting-started-with-android/ A Beginner’s Guide to Getting Started With Android (How-To Geek)

[[Category:Technical Info]]
[[Category:Recommendations]]

Android App Recommendations

2013-08-01T01:48:21Z

Lpb: /* For General Users */ add OpenSignal

Collected here are suggestions for Android apps that some of our members have found useful, so perhaps you will to. All of these are available from the official Google Play Store unless noted otherwise.

== For General Users ==

* [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.aldiko.android Aldiko] - highly recommended e-book reader (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012
* [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.zxing.client.android Barcode Scanner] - scan bar codes and QR codes (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012
* [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.socialnmobile.dictapps.notepad.color.note&feature=search_result#?t=W251bGwsMSwyLDEsImNvbS5zb2NpYWxubW9iaWxlLmRpY3RhcHBzLm5vdGVwYWQuY29sb3Iubm90ZSJd ColorNote] - checklist app useful for such things as grocery lists (free) -- / April 2013
* [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.geometerplus.zlibrary.ui.android FBReader] - another lean, fast, highly customizable, e-book reader. Also available for many other platforms, see [http://www.fbreader.org/ www.fbreader.org] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012
* [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eclipsim.gpsstatus2 GPS Status] - shows current status when you enable GPS (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012
* [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lbe.security.lite LBE Privacy Guard] - network monitor and firewall for android (nb. provides basic network monitoring on standard devices, requires jailbreak to provide advanced firewall features) (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012
* [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.staircase3.opensignal OpenSignal] - maps cellular coverage, find Wi-Fi hotspots, test and improve your reception & get faster data (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2013
* [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.orux.oruxmaps OruxMaps] - a really nice map navigation app that works with both online network accessed, and offline cached maps, eg. for bushwalking. Use in conjunction with [http://mobac.sourceforge.net Mobac] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012

== Getting Technical ==

* [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.farproc.wifi.analyzer Wifi Analyzer] - shows Wi-Fi channels around you to help find a less crowded channel for your wireless router (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012

== Strictly for Geeks ==

* [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.connectbot ConnectBot] - ssh client to provide a secure remote terminal connections to other computers (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012
* [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eolwral.osmonitor OS Monitor] - system monitoring tools like top, vmstat, netstat for your device (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012

[[Category:Technical Info]]
[[Category:Recommendations]]

Getting Started with Android

2013-08-01T01:40:29Z

Lpb: Initial content

This page is for members to suggest common hints and tips they find useful, as well as supplying links to great resources on the net.

== Useful References ==

* TBA

[[Category:Technical Info]]
[[Category:Recommendations]]

Technical Info

2013-08-01T01:36:22Z

Lpb: /* Android */ add link to new getting started page

__NOTOC__
This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest.
Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this.

Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''

Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area.


{|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px"
|class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"|

{|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff"
|-
|style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"|
===Computer Systems===
|-
|style="color:#000"|

==== Android ====
* [[Getting Started with Android]]
* [[Android_App_Recommendations]]
* [[Connect Android to Computer]]

==== Apple ====
* [[iPad_App_Recommendations]]
* [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]]

==== Linux ====
* [[Linux at PCUG Centre]]
* [[Additional HDD]]
* [[Dual-Booting]]
* [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]]
* [[GPT Partitioning]]
* [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]]
* [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]]
* [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]]
* [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]]
* [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]]
*[[Printing]]
*[[Scanning]]

==== Smart devices====
* [[QR codes]]

==== Windows ====
* [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]]
* [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]]
* [[Two Page Display]]
* [[Win7 Snipping Tool]]
* [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]]

==== Windows 8 ====
* [[Do I need Windows 8?]]
* [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]]
* [[Safe mode]]
* [[Install a Start button]]
* [[Confirmation of file delete]]
* [[File history]]
* [[Storage Spaces]]
* [[MRU]]
* [[CD/DVD player]]
* [[Computer icon on desktop]]
|-
|}

|class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"|
{| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff"
|-
|style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"|

=== Internet ===
|-
|style="color:#000"|

==== Access ====
* [[Internet Access Alternatives]]

==== Email ====
* [[Scams]]
* [[Spam]]
* [[Long URLs]]
* [[Macros]]

==== Family Trees ====
* [[Sharing Family Tree Information]]

==== Web ====
* [[Webmail attachments]]

==== Web Hosting ====
* [[Web hosting]]
** [[Web hosting in action]]
*** [[A real project]]

==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ====
* [[Web PI]]

==== Wikis ====

* [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]
* [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]
* [[Wiki Skins]]

|-
|}

|class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"|
{| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff"
|style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"|

=== Peripherals ===
|-
|style="color:#000"|

==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ====
* [[Booting from Removable Media]]
* [[Using dotISO Files]]

==== External Drives ====
* [[External_Drives]]

==== Monitors & Projectors ====
* [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]]

==== Printers ====
* [[Cleaning Printheads]]
* [[Parallel Port Printers]]
* [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]]

==== Scanners ====
* [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]]
* [[Scanning via Network]]

|-
|}

|class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"|
{| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff"
|style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"|

=== Software ===
|-
|style="color:#000"|

==== Backup ====
* [[Interesting_Techniques]]

==== Firewall ====
* [[Firewall_Software]]

==== General ====
* [[Interesting_Programs]]
*

==== Image and Photo Editing ====
* [[GIMP]]
*

==== Office ====
* [[OpenOffice]]

==== Vector Drawing ====
* [[OpenOffice Draw]]

* [[Inkscape]]

|-
{| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff"
|style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"|

=== Hardware ===
|-
|style="color:#000"|

==== Disks ====
*[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]]

*[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]]

==== Gateway_Router ====
*[[Commercial]]
*[[DIY]]

==== Programmable Controllers ====
*[[Arduino]]

==== Sub-Compact Computers ====
*[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]]
*[[Raspberry Pi]]
|-
|}
|}

== Related Pages ==
[[Category:Technical Info]]

Scams

2013-07-30T01:42:06Z

Lpb: /* More Information */ Add link to http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/

Scams, especially via email, bit also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness,

PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with.

More generally, most reputatable organisations have similar policies, of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages.

This is simply good basic Internet practise.

I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted at the time of PCUG being placed on blacklists, thus blocking some email delivery for all users when this occurs. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all!

== More Information ==

For info on how to avoid being caught by scams, see:

* [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online]
* [http://transition.accc.gov.au/content/index.phtml/tag/littleblackbookofscams Get the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"]
* [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch]
* [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam To report a scam to the ACCC]
* [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - For financial scams]
* [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP Internet Fraud & scams]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams]

== Scam Warnings ==
* [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013]
* [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013]
* [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013]
* [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013]
* [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013]
* [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013]
* [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013]

== Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically ==
We note here some recently seen scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously noted as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email.

==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ====
The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says!

From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki>
To: XXX@pcug.org.au
Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit

Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator,
we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox.

please provide the below credentials :

Email Address:
Username :
Password:
Confirm Password:

System Administrator
----

== See Also ==

* [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams

[[Category:Technical Info]]

Scams

2013-07-30T01:38:49Z

Lpb: Add link to Spam page and more commentary

Scams, especially via email, bit also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness,

PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with.

More generally, most reputatable organisations have similar policies, of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages.

This is simply good basic Internet practise.

I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted at the time of PCUG being placed on blacklists, thus blocking some email delivery for all users when this occurs. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all!

== More Information ==

For info on how to avoid being caught by scams, see:

* [http://transition.accc.gov.au/content/index.phtml/tag/littleblackbookofscams Get the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"]
* [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch]
* [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam To report a scam to the ACCC]
* [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - For financial scams]
* [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP Internet Fraud & scams]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams]

== Scam Warnings ==
* [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013]
* [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013]
* [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013]
* [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013]
* [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013]
* [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013]
* [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013]

== Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically ==
We note here some recently seen scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously noted as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email.

==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ====
The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says!

From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki>
To: XXX@pcug.org.au
Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit

Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator,
we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox.

please provide the below credentials :

Email Address:
Username :
Password:
Confirm Password:

System Administrator
----

== See Also ==

* [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams

[[Category:Technical Info]]

Scams

2013-07-30T01:09:13Z

Lpb: More commentary and copies of current spams

Scams, especially via email, bit also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness,

PCUG (like most reputable organisations) clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with.

== More Information ==

For info on how to avoid being caught by scams, see:

* [http://transition.accc.gov.au/content/index.phtml/tag/littleblackbookofscams Get the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"]
* [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch]
* [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam To report a scam to the ACCC]
* [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - For financial scams]
* [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP Internet Fraud & scams]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams]

== Scam Warnings ==
* [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013]
* [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013]
* [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013]
* [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013]
* [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013]
* [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013]
* [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013]

== Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically ==
We note here some recently seen scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously noted as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email.

==== Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ====
The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says!

From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki>
To: XXX@pcug.org.au
Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit

Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator,
we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox.

please provide the below credentials :

Email Address:
Username :
Password:
Confirm Password:

System Administrator
----

[[Category:Technical Info]]

Main Page

2013-07-27T01:29:48Z

Lpb: /* Members Informing Members */ add link to facebook page and remove note mobile skins (moved to about page)

__NOTOC__
== Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki ==
Please support this member initiative by adding content!

If you are new to this wiki, please read our [[Info_Wiki:About|Information on Using this Wiki]]

=== Members Informing Members ===
This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below.
You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information; browse the site using the links below; or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]].
General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website], or you can interact with us on our [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au Facebook page].

This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. For guidance on doing this, please see our pages [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the links in the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page.

== [[News and Notices]] ==
Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices

== [[Activities and Opportunities]] and [[Training Courses]] ==
Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, including [[Training Courses]], SIG Information, Volunteering opportunities, descriptions and more.

== [[Newsletters]] ==
Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources

== [[Technical Info]] ==
Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest.

Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''

== [[Social Media]] ==
PCUG is expanding into social media. Find out about our [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au Facebook page], how to like it, and contribute.

Main Page

2013-07-27T01:28:05Z

Lpb: /* Social Media */ add link to facebook page

__NOTOC__
== Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki ==
Please support this member initiative by adding content!

If you are new to this wiki, please read our [[Info_Wiki:About|Information on Using this Wiki]]

=== Members Informing Members ===
This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below.
You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information; browse the site using the links below; or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]].
General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website].
Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device.

This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. For guidance on doing this, please see our pages [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the links in the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page.

== [[News and Notices]] ==
Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices

== [[Activities and Opportunities]] and [[Training Courses]] ==
Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, including [[Training Courses]], SIG Information, Volunteering opportunities, descriptions and more.

== [[Newsletters]] ==
Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources

== [[Technical Info]] ==
Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest.

Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''

== [[Social Media]] ==
PCUG is expanding into social media. Find out about our [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au Facebook page], how to like it, and contribute.

MediaWiki:Sidebar

2013-07-27T01:25:46Z

Lpb: Remove "Feeling Lucky?" as just not needed, after adding link to Mailing Lists

MediaWiki:Sidebar

2013-07-27T01:24:25Z

Lpb:

Android App Recommendations

2013-07-27T00:36:57Z

Lpb: /* For General Users */ fix ordering

Collected here are suggestions for Android apps that some of our members have found useful, so perhaps you will to. All of these are available from the official Google Play Store unless noted otherwise.

== For General Users ==

* [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.aldiko.android Aldiko] - highly recommended e-book reader (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012
* [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.zxing.client.android Barcode Scanner] - scan bar codes and QR codes (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012
* [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.socialnmobile.dictapps.notepad.color.note&feature=search_result#?t=W251bGwsMSwyLDEsImNvbS5zb2NpYWxubW9iaWxlLmRpY3RhcHBzLm5vdGVwYWQuY29sb3Iubm90ZSJd ColorNote] - checklist app useful for such things as grocery lists (free) -- / April 2013
* [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.geometerplus.zlibrary.ui.android FBReader] - another lean, fast, highly customizable, e-book reader. Also available for many other platforms, see [http://www.fbreader.org/ www.fbreader.org] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012
* [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eclipsim.gpsstatus2 GPS Status] - shows current status when you enable GPS (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012
* [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lbe.security.lite LBE Privacy Guard] - network monitor and firewall for android (nb. provides basic network monitoring on standard devices, requires jailbreak to provide advanced firewall features) (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012
* [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.orux.oruxmaps OruxMaps] - a really nice map navigation app that works with both online network accessed, and offline cached maps, eg. for bushwalking. Use in conjunction with [http://mobac.sourceforge.net Mobac] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012

== Getting Technical ==

* [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.farproc.wifi.analyzer Wifi Analyzer] - shows Wi-Fi channels around you to help find a less crowded channel for your wireless router (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012

== Strictly for Geeks ==

* [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.connectbot ConnectBot] - ssh client to provide a secure remote terminal connections to other computers (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012
* [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eolwral.osmonitor OS Monitor] - system monitoring tools like top, vmstat, netstat for your device (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012

[[Category:Technical Info]]
[[Category:Recommendations]]

Newsletters

2013-07-22T05:39:18Z

Lpb: Add links to assorted 2013 newsletters

This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources.

Please note that many of these newsletters are stored in the secure members area on our web server, and you will be asked to login there to access these.

== [http://www.apcug.net APCUG] ==
Newsletters from the (American based) ''[http://www.apcug.net Association of Personal Computer User Groups]'':

; 2013
: [http://reports.apcug.org APCUG Reports]: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2013q1.pdf Q1], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2013q2.pdf Q2], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2013q3.pdf Q3]
: NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Jan13.pdf Jan], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Feb13.pdf Feb], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Jul13.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Advisors13.pdf Advisors].

; 2012
: [http://reports.apcug.org APCUG Reports]: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q1.pdf Q1], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q2.pdf Q2]
: NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Aug12.pdf Aug], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Oct12.pdf Oct], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Nov12.html Nov].

; 2011
: NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Sep11.pdf Sep], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Dec11.pdf Dec].

See also their details on [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Nov12_Offer.pdf What We Offer] (received Nov 2012).

== [http://www.ascca.org.au ASCCA]==
Newsletters from the ''[http://www.ascca.org.au Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association]'':

; 2013
: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jan13.pdf Jan], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Feb13.pdf Feb], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Mar13.pdf Mar], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_May13.pdf May], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jun13.pdf Jun], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jul13.pdf Jul].

Competitions: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Photo_Comp13.pdf Photo]

; 2012
: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Feb12.pdf Feb], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Mar12.pdf Mar], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_May12.pdf May], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jun12.pdf Jun], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Aug12.pdf Aug], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Sept12.pdf Sept], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Oct12.pdf Oct], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Nov12.pdf Nov], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Dec12.pdf Dec].

== [http://www.connectingup.org Connecting Up/DonorTec] ==
Connecting Up is a not-for-profit organisation that works to unleash the power of not-for-profits in Australia and New Zealand. DonorTec provides donated and discounted technology products and services from companies such as Microsoft, Cisco, Symantec, Sophos and Kaspersky to eligible income tax exempt (ITE) Australian nonprofit groups. Through this program your nonprofit can access the latest products. See their [http://www.connectingup.org website] for further details.

== [http://www.hobartpcgroup.org.au Hobart Computer Users Group] ==
Their latest newsletter is available online at [http://newsletter.hobartpcgroup.org.au http://newsletter.hobartpcgroup.org.au]

----

Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area.

Please also note that information published on this wiki is viewable by anyone. Please ensure any copyright on content added here grants permission for this. Otherwise save the actual item in the secure members server which restricts access to members only, and just link to it from here.

[[Category:Newsletters]]

Technical Info

2013-07-08T07:36:02Z

Lpb: Add Internet Access section and page link

__NOTOC__
This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest.
Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this.

Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''

Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area.


{|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px"
|class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"|

{|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff"
|-
|style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"|
===Computer Systems===
|-
|style="color:#000"|

==== Android ====
* [[Android_App_Recommendations]]

==== Apple ====
* [[iPad_App_Recommendations]]
* [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]]

==== Linux ====
* [[Linux at PCUG Centre]]
* [[Additional HDD]]
* [[Dual-Booting]]
* [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]]
* [[GPT Partitioning]]
* [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]]
* [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]]
* [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]]
* [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]]
* [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]]
*[[Printing]]
*[[Scanning]]

==== Smart devices====
* [[QR codes]]

==== Windows ====
* [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]]
* [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]]
* [[Two Page Display]]
* [[Win7 Snipping Tool]]
* [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]]

==== Windows 8 ====
* [[Do I need Windows 8?]]
* [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]]
* [[Safe mode]]
* [[Install a Start button]]
* [[Confirmation of file delete]]
* [[File history]]
* [[Storage Spaces]]
* [[MRU]]
* [[CD/DVD player]]
* [[Computer icon on desktop]]
|-
|}

|class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"|
{| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff"
|-
|style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"|

=== Internet ===
|-
|style="color:#000"|

==== Access ====
* [[Internet Access Alternatives]]

==== Email ====
* [[Scams]]
* [[Spam]]
* [[Long URLs]]
* [[Macros]]

==== Family Trees ====
* [[Sharing Family Tree Information]]

==== Web ====
* [[Webmail attachments]]

==== Web Hosting ====
* [[Web hosting]]
** [[Web hosting in action]]
*** [[A real project]]

==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ====
* [[Web PI]]

==== Wikis ====

* [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]
* [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]
* [[Wiki Skins]]

|-
|}

|class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"|
{| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff"
|style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"|

=== Peripherals ===
|-
|style="color:#000"|

==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ====
* [[Booting from Removable Media]]
* [[Using dotISO Files]]

==== External Drives ====
* [[External_Drives]]

==== Monitors & Projectors ====
* [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]]

==== Printers ====
* [[Cleaning Printheads]]
* [[Parallel Port Printers]]
* [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]]

==== Scanners ====
* [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]]
* [[Scanning via Network]]

|-
|}

|class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"|
{| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff"
|style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"|

=== Software ===
|-
|style="color:#000"|

==== Backup ====
* [[Interesting_Techniques]]

==== Firewall ====
* [[Firewall_Software]]

==== General ====
* [[Interesting_Programs]]
*

==== Image and Photo Editing ====
* [[GIMP]]
*

==== Office ====
* [[OpenOffice]]

==== Vector Drawing ====
* [[OpenOffice Draw]]

* [[Inkscape]]

|-
{| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff"
|style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"|

=== Hardware ===
|-
|style="color:#000"|

==== Disks ====
*[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]]

*[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]]

==== Gateway_Router ====
*[[Commercial]]
*[[DIY]]

==== Programmable Controllers ====
*[[Arduino]]

==== Sub-Compact Computers ====
*[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]]
*[[Raspberry Pi]]
|-
|}
|}

== Related Pages ==
[[Category:Technical Info]]

Internet Access Alternatives

2013-07-08T07:32:02Z

Lpb: /* National Broadband Network (NBN) */ add wikipedia NBN lik

There are a wide range of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_access Internet Access Alternatives]: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. The page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives.

== Lower Usage Access ==

To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage, with both wireless and dialup wired options possible.

=== Mobile Broadband ===

The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodaphone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their resellers. There are a very large number of alternatives available. You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from.

There a several possibilities for accessing this service:

* using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid).

* use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device.

* share your smartphone's data connection - extending the above option, you could configure your tablet/smartphone as a WiFi hotspot to share it's Internet connection with other devices. The details for how to do this depend on the type of device you have

=== Fixed Wireless Broadband ===

This service also uses wireless technology, but differs from mobile broadband in having a fixed access node attached to your house (or other building) that provides a direct link back to the provider's wireless tower. Because this uses a fixed node with a larger antenna, it can cover a wider area from the wireless tower, and hence may be able to reach into areas that mobile broadband does not. Availability of this service very much depends on the provider's infrastructure, but in the Canberra region, [http://www.netspeed.com.au/netspeed.cfm?action=p_15 NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband] service supports this option for those in suitable service areas.

=== Dialup ===

A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dialup dialup Internet access] using a modem connected to your phone-line. However this provides limited speeds and download capabilities, and support is being discontinued by ISPs due to increasing costs. This is unlikely to be a long-term option.

== Higher Usage Access ==

To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming.

=== National Broadband Network (NBN) ===

The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Broadband_Network National Broadband Network (NBN)] is a fibre to the premises ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTP]) (unless the Coalition cripple it to become a Fibre to the Node with deteriorating copper to you) network currently under construction in Australia. It will provide extremely fast download speeds to 93% of Australian homes and businesses. The remaining homes and businesses will be covered using wireless and satellite technologies. Its fibre network will replace most other wired (telephone twisted pair used by ADSL and coaxial cable as used by Bigpond & Optus in some major cities) connections. Once the NBN passes a location, these other wired networks will be shutdown 18 months later.

To access the Internet via the NBN, you need to be connected to the NBN, and have a phone and/or Internet subscription with an NBN provider. More information on the NBN rollout, and NBN providers is available on the [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website].

=== ADSL ===

[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)] provides broadband data access over legacy (twisted-pair) phone-line connections much faster than a dialup modem, whilst still allowing standard phone calls to occur at the same time (unlike using dialup). In recent years this has been the main broadband alternative of choice, with a large number of providers offering it. However in Australia it is expected to be superseded by the NBN rollout in coming years.

To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra).

In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them.

=== Cable ===

In the ACT region [http://transact.com.au/ TransACT] provide a cable ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDSL VDSL]) service to some areas in Canberra, that can provide phone, broadband Internet and PayTV. These may be a suitable high-speed intenret acces option for those in cabled areas. These services are not subject to the shutdown after NBN rollout.

In some other major cities, Telstra and Optus operate a coaxial cable network that provides similar services. These are subject to shutdown after the NBN rollout.

== More Information ==

The following sites may assist with additional information. Whirlpool in particular has a large amount of comparative information, and user supplied commentary, on many aspects of Internet access.

* [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice]
* [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/?action=list&loc=8 Whirlpool ACT Service Providers]
* [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/Choosing_a_Broadband_Provider_FAQ Whirlpool Choosing a Broadband Provider FAQ]
* [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/NBN Whirlpool NBN Overview]
* [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website]

[[Category:Technical Info]]
[[Category:Internet]]

Internet Access Alternatives

2013-07-08T07:29:27Z

Lpb: /* Cable */ add some content

There are a wide range of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_access Internet Access Alternatives]: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. The page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives.

== Lower Usage Access ==

To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage, with both wireless and dialup wired options possible.

=== Mobile Broadband ===

The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodaphone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their resellers. There are a very large number of alternatives available. You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from.

There a several possibilities for accessing this service:

* using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid).

* use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device.

* share your smartphone's data connection - extending the above option, you could configure your tablet/smartphone as a WiFi hotspot to share it's Internet connection with other devices. The details for how to do this depend on the type of device you have

=== Fixed Wireless Broadband ===

This service also uses wireless technology, but differs from mobile broadband in having a fixed access node attached to your house (or other building) that provides a direct link back to the provider's wireless tower. Because this uses a fixed node with a larger antenna, it can cover a wider area from the wireless tower, and hence may be able to reach into areas that mobile broadband does not. Availability of this service very much depends on the provider's infrastructure, but in the Canberra region, [http://www.netspeed.com.au/netspeed.cfm?action=p_15 NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband] service supports this option for those in suitable service areas.

=== Dialup ===

A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dialup dialup Internet access] using a modem connected to your phone-line. However this provides limited speeds and download capabilities, and support is being discontinued by ISPs due to increasing costs. This is unlikely to be a long-term option.

== Higher Usage Access ==

To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming.

=== National Broadband Network (NBN) ===

The National Broadband Network (NBN) is a fibre to the premises ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTP]) (unless the Coalition cripple it to become a Fibre to the Node with deteriorating copper to you) network currently under construction in Australia. It will provide extremely fast download speeds to 93% of Australian homes and businesses. The remaining homes and businesses will be covered using wireless and satellite technologies. Its fibre network will replace most other wired (telephone twisted pair used by ADSL and coaxial cable as used by Bigpond & Optus in some major cities) connections. Once the NBN passes a location, these other wired networks will be shutdown 18 months later.

To access the Internet via the NBN, you need to be connected to the NBN, and have a phone and/or Internet subscription with an NBN provider. More information on the NBN rollout, and NBN providers is available on the [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website].

=== ADSL ===

[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)] provides broadband data access over legacy (twisted-pair) phone-line connections much faster than a dialup modem, whilst still allowing standard phone calls to occur at the same time (unlike using dialup). In recent years this has been the main broadband alternative of choice, with a large number of providers offering it. However in Australia it is expected to be superseded by the NBN rollout in coming years.

To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra).

In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them.

=== Cable ===

In the ACT region [http://transact.com.au/ TransACT] provide a cable ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDSL VDSL]) service to some areas in Canberra, that can provide phone, broadband Internet and PayTV. These may be a suitable high-speed intenret acces option for those in cabled areas. These services are not subject to the shutdown after NBN rollout.

In some other major cities, Telstra and Optus operate a coaxial cable network that provides similar services. These are subject to shutdown after the NBN rollout.

== More Information ==

The following sites may assist with additional information. Whirlpool in particular has a large amount of comparative information, and user supplied commentary, on many aspects of Internet access.

* [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice]
* [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/?action=list&loc=8 Whirlpool ACT Service Providers]
* [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/Choosing_a_Broadband_Provider_FAQ Whirlpool Choosing a Broadband Provider FAQ]
* [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/NBN Whirlpool NBN Overview]
* [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website]

[[Category:Technical Info]]
[[Category:Internet]]

Internet Access Alternatives

2013-07-02T03:22:41Z

Lpb: More additions to content

There are a wide range of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_access Internet Access Alternatives]: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. The page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives.

== Lower Usage Access ==

To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage, with both wireless and dialup wired options possible.

=== Mobile Broadband ===

The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodaphone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their resellers. There are a very large number of alternatives available. You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from.

There a several possibilities for accessing this service:

* using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid).

* use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device.

* share your smartphone's data connection - extending the above option, you could configure your tablet/smartphone as a WiFi hotspot to share it's Internet connection with other devices. The details for how to do this depend on the type of device you have

=== Fixed Wireless Broadband ===

This service also uses wireless technology, but differs from mobile broadband in having a fixed access node attached to your house (or other building) that provides a direct link back to the provider's wireless tower. Because this uses a fixed node with a larger antenna, it can cover a wider area from the wireless tower, and hence may be able to reach into areas that mobile broadband does not. Availability of this service very much depends on the provider's infrastructure, but in the Canberra region, [http://www.netspeed.com.au/netspeed.cfm?action=p_15 NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband] service supports this option for those in suitable service areas.

=== Dialup ===

A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dialup dialup Internet access] using a modem connected to your phone-line. However this provides limited speeds and download capabilities, and support is being discontinued by ISPs due to increasing costs. This is unlikely to be a long-term option.

== Higher Usage Access ==

To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming.

=== National Broadband Network (NBN) ===

The National Broadband Network (NBN) is a fibre to the premises ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTP]) (unless the Coalition cripple it to become a Fibre to the Node with deteriorating copper to you) network currently under construction in Australia. It will provide extremely fast download speeds to 93% of Australian homes and businesses. The remaining homes and businesses will be covered using wireless and satellite technologies. Its fibre network will replace most other wired (telephone twisted pair used by ADSL and coaxial cable as used by Bigpond & Optus in some major cities) connections. Once the NBN passes a location, these other wired networks will be shutdown 18 months later.

To access the Internet via the NBN, you need to be connected to the NBN, and have a phone and/or Internet subscription with an NBN provider. More information on the NBN rollout, and NBN providers is available on the [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website].

=== ADSL ===

[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)] provides broadband data access over legacy (twisted-pair) phone-line connections much faster than a dialup modem, whilst still allowing standard phone calls to occur at the same time (unlike using dialup). In recent years this has been the main broadband alternative of choice, with a large number of providers offering it. However in Australia it is expected to be superseded by the NBN rollout in coming years.

To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra).

In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them.

=== Cable ===

== More Information ==

The following sites may assist with additional information. Whirlpool in particular has a large amount of comparative information, and user supplied commentary, on many aspects of Internet access.

* [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice]
* [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/?action=list&loc=8 Whirlpool ACT Service Providers]
* [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/Choosing_a_Broadband_Provider_FAQ Whirlpool Choosing a Broadband Provider FAQ]
* [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/NBN Whirlpool NBN Overview]
* [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website]

[[Category:Technical Info]]
[[Category:Internet]]

Internet Access Alternatives

2013-07-02T01:49:36Z

Lpb: Initial page, with content swiped from dialup shutdown announcement

There are a wide range of ways you can access the Internet: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. The page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives.

== Lower Usage Access ==

To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage.

=== Mobile Broadband ===

This service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodaphone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their resellers. There are a very large number of alternatives available. You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from.

There a several possibilities for accessing this service:

* using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid).

* use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device.

* share your smartphone's data connection by configuring it as a WiFi hotspot to connect devices to

+ wireless broadband (such as NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband service)
for those in suitable service areas

A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer dialup access.
And there are the obvious ADSL/Cable/NBN
== Higher Usage Access ==

To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming.

User:Lpb

2013-07-02T01:21:43Z

Lpb: /* Pages Being Worked On */ add link to new "Internet Access Alternatives" page

Member Survey 2013

2013-05-30T05:42:22Z

Lpb: Response items noted at May 2013 committee meeting.

This page documents the background, reports, analysis, and responses to the survey of PCUG members run in Feb-Mar 2013.

A total of 346 responses were received. A [https://www.pcug.org.au/members/documents/membsurvey2013.pdf summary report] with the statistics for the all the multi-choice questions, is available in the members area. A summary of the key points from these, and of the commonly raised issues in the free-text responses, is given [[#PCUG Members Survey Summary|below]]. Details of the background to the survey are provided at the [[#Background|bottom of this page]]. The committee's responses to the survey results are shown [[#Response to Survey|next]].

== Response to Survey ==

Having reviewed the survey reports and suggestions, the committee has noted the following:

* note widely expressed desire to retain PCUG email/web (as we intend)
* agree with view that group should embrace wider range of platforms - need to make our branding indicate this, add training courses & SIGs to address
* will look at "kick-starting" Android & iOS SIGs by hosting visiting presenters from peer clubs in Sydney
* will look at cooperating with groups such as HAGSOC on presenting genealogy courses
* will look at suggestion for some training courses in basic social media (eg Facebook, Twitter, & Blogs) use
* need to better advertise & promote existing & future SIGs
* note that given the clear older demographic of the group, that we need to address their needs, and that trying to attract a significantly younger membership is likely to be problematic, even disasterous

The PCUG main committee has formally noted these response items at its May 2013 meeting, and is listing them in the minutes of that meeting as action items, so that progress will be monitored.

Responses are still being reviewed, and we welcome suggestions for further response items the group should consider.

== Volunteers Needed ==

* a number of opportunities have been identified, but need volunteers to make them happen
* need to encourage those who indicated they are willing to volunteer, but not already, to make themselves known
* need to emphasize that SIG coordinators don't need to be experts on the topic, just willing to make meetings happen
* for group to have a future need more users doing the helping!

== PCUG Members Survey Summary ==

=== Multi-choice Questions ===
* membership is valued by a significant majority, and recommeded by many
* likely to lose ~38% is close TIP, high, but not as high as feared
* 61% of membership is over 65, essentially no younger members
* ~30% have used centre / courses / SIGs in mid-term, fewer currently; ~35% have never used these; ~30% may use in future
* only 16% likely/will volunteer, need these people to get in touch
* see very mixed opinions about the future of the group

=== Free-text Responses ===

* many indicated they wanted to retain PCUG email/web (as we intend)
* many suggested we embrace a wider range of platforms and open-systems, esp smartphones & tablets; possibly even to point of changing name
* mixed opinions suggesting that we need to attract younger members for the continued health of the group BUT others warned this was seen to be very problematic, even disasterous for other groups in similar circumstances
* some suggest scaling down services, dropping centre, TIP etc; others would like to see more services at centre, perhaps help with systems
* several noted we need to stay community-focused as "users helping users"
* several noted they would like a regular newsletter (editor needed!); others commented that given ease of finding info on web, this was no longer so important
* some suggested we should offer more training esp for older users, others noted that ACT libraries are funded to provide such services, so why are we?
* courses suggested: smartphone (likely android & iOS separate), digital photography & photo editing, networking, adv excel, adv access, Win8, linux, genealogy
* SIGs suggested: smartphone (likely android & iOS separate), social media, linux (we already have a linux SIG!)

Take Home Message: there are a range of things members would like us to do, but unless more volunteers step forward to help do such, they wont happen and the group wont have a future!

== Background ==
'' This background was included in all-member emails sent on 20 Feb & 2 Mar 2013''.

The PCUG has reached a turning point in its operations. Many of the original reasons it was formed over 25 years ago have changed, due to technology advances and changes to the computer knowledge and experience of our members and potential members.

Furthermore with the gradual rollout of the NBN (National Broadband Network) throughout the local area and greater ISP competition, the PCUG's own TIP will most likely cease being a viable concern as an ISP, and become redundant. On that, please note that we intend to provide at least a year's warning of major changes to TIP's status. We also intend to continue to provide PCUG email addresses and member web areas as currently, but on an external host. It is the Internet access aspect of TIP that will likely not remain viable.

Hence it is time to evaluate a future direction for PCUG. We need your involvement to make it happen. The alternatives are simple - to do something and have a chance of continuing to operate, or do nothing - and die. Our declining membership and TIP usage has already created some years of annual financial deficits. This means the group will likely be unable to continue in its current form as early as the end of FY 2015/16. The changing ISP / TIP situation is likely to exacerbate this in future years. Also lack of volunteers is leading to difficulties in maintaining membership services, such as having meetings, training courses and similar activities.

For the group to continue into the future we must either significantly reduce operating costs and services or source alternative funding to replace what will be lost through the eventual closure of TIP. To do this, the group needs to more clearly identify what its aims and goals are, how best to meet the needs of its membership and to maximize the use of its resources.

One possible solution under investigation by the group is to make greater use of our training facilities - by making them commercially available.

We must also accept that our membership is aging, and look at ways to attract younger generations.

The PCUG can only continue through the active involvement of its members and volunteers.

News and Notices

2013-05-30T05:38:41Z

Lpb: Add item on PCUG Member Survey Update

This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG. 
nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki. 
General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. 
Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the TIP Wiki [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki]

Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]].

We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or.

== Training Room for Hire ==
'''Item Date 21 May 2013'' 
* The PCUG Training Room is available for hire to groups in the community for $125 per hour for non-member groups, or $65 per hour for member non-profit groups.
* Full details are available via our [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training PCUG Training Information page]
* We are seeking support from members to assist coordinate the promotion of PCUG Training facilities in our community.
* An honoraria may be applicable for every successful hire arranged and overseen by a member (just as trainers running PCUG courses may claim honoraria). Details of this are still being confirmed by the PCUG Committee.

== National Cyber Security Week Partner ==
'''''Item Date 21 May, 2013''''' 
*Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website]
*PCUG is an official partner. Check out the [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au PCUG Facebook Page] for updates

== PCUG Member Survey Update ==
'''''Item Date 30 Apr 2013 ''''' 
* you can see a summary of the responses at [[Member_Survey_2013]]

== PCUG in 2013 ==
'''''Item Date 29 January, 2013''''' 
* Welcome back to PCUG in 2013
* The PCUG Office re-opens for business on Tuesday 29 January, 2013 at 10am.
* Many thanks to the PCUG Volunteers who kept services and enquiries of the group maintained during the closure period.
* We look forward to 2013 being a time for PCUG moving ahead, with the support of Volunteers who are the back-bone of the clubs success and future.

== Training Courses in 2013 ==
'''''Item Date revised 21 May, 2013''''' 
* Further Courses for 2013 are now being scheduled.
* Course Information is listed on the [[Training Courses]].
* As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing.
* If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know.
* Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable.
* Contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form.

== PCUG Christmas Party - Sat 1 December, 2012 11am - 3.30pm ==
'''''Item Date 2 November, 2012''''' 
* PCUG Centre Holder.
* Limited refreshments non-alcholic drinks provided. Please bring plate & BYOG.
* See you there !!!

== PCUG Centre & Office Closure dates ==
'''''Item Date 2 November, 2012''''' 
* COB 2pm Wednesday 20 December 2012
* Open For Business: 10am Tue 29 January, 2013
* PCUG is closed for the Xmas & New Year Period from Thur 20 December, 2012 to Monday 28 January 2013.
* Business will resume after the Australia day long weekend.
* Member support will continue to be monitored, and may be accessed per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice].

== PCUG AGM Draft Minutes ==
'''''Item Date 2 November, 2012''''' 
* draft minutes now available [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/committee-minutes Committee Minutes Index]
* note that these are draft format, to be accepted at the next AGM, with amendments if required

=='''PCUG Annual General Meeting'''==
'''''Item revised 01 September 2012''''' 
===AGM details===
*The 2012 PCUG AGM is scheduled for '''Wednesday 24 October 2012, at 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start'''
*The venue is the Grant Cameron Community Centre Conference Room, 27 Mulley Street HOLDER ACT 2611
*Full details available from [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]]
*Please note that the closure date for committee nominations is Thursday 18 October, 2012, 2pm (COB for the PCUG Office).
*The PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2012 announcement will be deferred to the next appropriate opportunity, as the nominated volunteer is not available to be present on the night of the AGM.
*A presentation will also follow the AGM (as below)
=== Presentation After the AGM ===
*The Presentation after the AGM will be Hosted by members of the LINUX SIG.
*Please see the [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] for full details.

=='''PCUG Office Hours'''==
'''''Item updated 01 September 2012''''' 
* The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday.
* The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays.
* Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times have been suspended.
* Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers).
* For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2]

== '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs or Commercial Hire)''' ==
'''''Item Updated 01 September 2012''''' 
*The PCUG Training room is refurbished with Windows7 Operating system.
*Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups, or commercial hire.
*Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information. 

== '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' ==
''''''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012'''''' 
*As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding.

=='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''==
''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012'''''' 
We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with
each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! 

=='''PCUG Website volunteers'''==
''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012'''''' 
The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. 

=='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''==
'''''Item Date: 18 July 2012''''' 
To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form]

=='''Stay Smart Online'''==
'''''Item Date 23June2012''''' 
The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. 

=='''TIO'''==
'''''Item Date 23June2012''''' 
PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au] 
who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information. 

=='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''==
'''''Item Date 23June2012''''' 
Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member). 
Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab. 

== '''PCUG on Facebook''' ==
''''''Item Date 01June2012''' 
When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback.

== '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' ==
'''''Item Date 28May2012''''' 
The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. 

== '''E-waste Recycling Information''' ==
'''''Item Date 02May2012''''' 
For the information about recycling of computer equipment. 
"Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..."

http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 

== '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' ==
'''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r>
An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. 
Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. 
Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn.
Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] 

== [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] ==
Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below.

[[Category:News and Notices]]

Member Survey 2013

2013-03-18T22:59:47Z

Lpb: Add link to report for members, & note about under development

This page documents the background, reports, analysis, and responses to the survey of PCUG members run in Feb-Mar 2013.

Please Note: This page is under development, and content will change and evolve!

A total of 346 responses were received. A [https://www.pcug.org.au/members/documents/membsurvey2013.pdf summary report] with the statistics for the all the multi-choice questions, is available in the members area. A summary of the key points from these, and of the commonly raised issues in the free-text responses, is given [[#PCUG Members Survey Summary|below]]. Details of the background to the survey are provided at the [[#Background|bottom of this page]]. The committee's responses to the survey results are shown [[#Response to Survey|next]].

== Response to Survey ==

Having reviewed the survey reports and suggestions, the committee has noted the following:

* note widely expressed desire to retain PCUG email/web (as we intend)
* agree with view that group should embrace wider range of platforms - need to make our branding indicate this, add training courses & SIGs to address
* will look at "kick-starting" Android & iOS SIGs by hosting visiting presenters from peer clubs in Sydney
* will look at cooperating with groups such as HAGSOG? on presenting genealogy courses
* will look at suggestion for some training courses in basic social media (eg Facebook, Twitter) use
* need to better advertise & promote existing & future SIGs
* note that given the clear older demographic of the group, that we need to address their needs, and that trying to attract a significantly younger membership is likely to be problematic, even disasterous

more TBA

== Volunteers Needed ==

* a number of opportunities have been identified, but need volunteers to make them happen
* need to encourage those who indicated they are willing to volunteer, but not already, to make themselves known
* need to emphasize that SIG coordinators don't need to be experts on the topic, just willing to make meetings happen
* for group to have a future need more users doing the helping!

== PCUG Members Survey Summary ==

=== Multi-choice Questions ===
* membership is valued by a significant majority, and recommeded by many
* likely to lose ~38% is close TIP, high, but not as high as feared
* 61% of membership is over 65, essentially no younger members
* ~30% have used centre / courses / SIGs in mid-term, fewer currently; ~35% have never used these; ~30% may use in future
* only 16% likely/will volunteer, need these people to get in touch
* see very mixed opinions about the future of the group

=== Free-text Responses ===

* many indicated they wanted to retain PCUG email/web (as we intend)
* many suggested we embrace a wider range of platforms and open-systems, esp smartphones & tablets; possibly even to point of changing name
* mixed opinions suggesting that we need to attract younger members for the continued health of the group BUT others warned this was seen to be very problematic, even disasterous for other groups in similar circumstances
* some suggest scaling down services, dropping centre, TIP etc; others would like to see more services at centre, perhaps help with systems
* several noted we need to stay community-focused as "users helping users"
* several noted they would like a regular newsletter (editor needed!); others commented that given ease of finding info on web, this was no longer so important
* some suggested we should offer more training esp for older users, others noted that ACT libraries are funded to provide such services, so why are we?
* courses suggested: smartphone (likely android & iOS separate), digital photography & photo editing, networking, adv excel, adv access, Win8, linux, genealogy
* SIGs suggested: smartphone (likely android & iOS separate), social media, linux (we already have a linux SIG!)

Take Home Message: there are a range of things members would like us to do, but unless more volunteers step forward to help do such, they wont happen and the group wont have a future!

== Background ==
'' This background was included in all-member emails sent on 20 Feb & 2 Mar 2013''.

The PCUG has reached a turning point in its operations. Many of the original reasons it was formed over 25 years ago have changed, due to technology advances and changes to the computer knowledge and experience of our members and potential members.

Furthermore with the gradual rollout of the NBN (National Broadband Network) throughout the local area and greater ISP competition, the PCUG's own TIP will most likely cease being a viable concern as an ISP, and become redundant. On that, please note that we intend to provide at least a year's warning of major changes to TIP's status. We also intend to continue to provide PCUG email addresses and member web areas as currently, but on an external host. It is the Internet access aspect of TIP that will likely not remain viable.

Hence it is time to evaluate a future direction for PCUG. We need your involvement to make it happen. The alternatives are simple - to do something and have a chance of continuing to operate, or do nothing - and die. Our declining membership and TIP usage has already created some years of annual financial deficits. This means the group will likely be unable to continue in its current form as early as the end of FY 2015/16. The changing ISP / TIP situation is likely to exacerbate this in future years. Also lack of volunteers is leading to difficulties in maintaining membership services, such as having meetings, training courses and similar activities.

For the group to continue into the future we must either significantly reduce operating costs and services or source alternative funding to replace what will be lost through the eventual closure of TIP. To do this, the group needs to more clearly identify what its aims and goals are, how best to meet the needs of its membership and to maximize the use of its resources.

One possible solution under investigation by the group is to make greater use of our training facilities - by making them commercially available.

We must also accept that our membership is aging, and look at ways to attract younger generations.

The PCUG can only continue through the active involvement of its members and volunteers.

Member Survey 2013

2013-03-18T11:20:25Z

Lpb: /* Response to Survey */ add demographic note

This page documents the background, reports, analysis, and responses to the survey of PCUG members run in Feb-Mar 2013.

A total of 346 responses were received. A summary report with the statistics for the all the multi-choice questions, is available to members. A summary of the key points from these, and of the commonly raised issues in the free-text responses is given [[#PCUG Members Survey Summary|below]]. Details of the background to the survey are provided at the [[#Background|bottom of this page]]. The committee's responses to the survey results are shown [[#Response to Survey|next]].

== Response to Survey ==

Having reviewed the survey reports and suggestions, the committee has noted the following:

* note widely expressed desire to retain PCUG email/web (as we intend)
* agree with view that group should embrace wider range of platforms - need to make our branding indicate this, add training courses & SIGs to address
* will look at "kick-starting" Android & iOS SIGs by hosting visiting presenters from peer clubs in Sydney
* will look at cooperating with groups such as HAGSOG? on presenting genealogy courses
* will look at suggestion for some training courses in basic social media (eg Facebook, Twitter) use
* need to better advertise & promote existing & future SIGs
* note that given the clear older demographic of the group, that we need to address their needs, and that trying to attract a significantly younger membership is likely to be problematic, even disasterous

more TBA

== Volunteers Needed ==

* a number of opportunities have been identified, but need volunteers to make them happen
* need to encourage those who indicated they are willing to volunteer, but not already, to make themselves known
* need to emphasize that SIG coordinators don't need to be experts on the topic, just willing to make meetings happen
* for group to have a future need more users doing the helping!

== PCUG Members Survey Summary ==

=== Multi-choice Questions ===
* membership is valued by a significant majority, and recommeded by many
* likely to lose ~38% is close TIP, high, but not as high as feared
* 61% of membership is over 65, essentially no younger members
* ~30% have used centre / courses / SIGs in mid-term, fewer currently; ~35% have never used these; ~30% may use in future
* only 16% likely/will volunteer, need these people to get in touch
* see very mixed opinions about the future of the group

=== Free-text Responses ===

* many indicated they wanted to retain PCUG email/web (as we intend)
* many suggested we embrace a wider range of platforms and open-systems, esp smartphones & tablets; possibly even to point of changing name
* mixed opinions suggesting that we need to attract younger members for the continued health of the group BUT others warned this was seen to be very problematic, even disasterous for other groups in similar circumstances
* some suggest scaling down services, dropping centre, TIP etc; others would like to see more services at centre, perhaps help with systems
* several noted we need to stay community-focused as "users helping users"
* several noted they would like a regular newsletter (editor needed!); others commented that given ease of finding info on web, this was no longer so important
* some suggested we should offer more training esp for older users, others noted that ACT libraries are funded to provide such services, so why are we?
* courses suggested: smartphone (likely android & iOS separate), digital photography & photo editing, networking, adv excel, adv access, Win8, linux, genealogy
* SIGs suggested: smartphone (likely android & iOS separate), social media, linux (we already have a linux SIG!)

Take Home Message: there are a range of things members would like us to do, but unless more volunteers step forward to help do such, they wont happen and the group wont have a future!

== Background ==
'' This background was included in all-member emails sent on 20 Feb & 2 Mar 2013''.

The PCUG has reached a turning point in its operations. Many of the original reasons it was formed over 25 years ago have changed, due to technology advances and changes to the computer knowledge and experience of our members and potential members.

Furthermore with the gradual rollout of the NBN (National Broadband Network) throughout the local area and greater ISP competition, the PCUG's own TIP will most likely cease being a viable concern as an ISP, and become redundant. On that, please note that we intend to provide at least a year's warning of major changes to TIP's status. We also intend to continue to provide PCUG email addresses and member web areas as currently, but on an external host. It is the Internet access aspect of TIP that will likely not remain viable.

Hence it is time to evaluate a future direction for PCUG. We need your involvement to make it happen. The alternatives are simple - to do something and have a chance of continuing to operate, or do nothing - and die. Our declining membership and TIP usage has already created some years of annual financial deficits. This means the group will likely be unable to continue in its current form as early as the end of FY 2015/16. The changing ISP / TIP situation is likely to exacerbate this in future years. Also lack of volunteers is leading to difficulties in maintaining membership services, such as having meetings, training courses and similar activities.

For the group to continue into the future we must either significantly reduce operating costs and services or source alternative funding to replace what will be lost through the eventual closure of TIP. To do this, the group needs to more clearly identify what its aims and goals are, how best to meet the needs of its membership and to maximize the use of its resources.

One possible solution under investigation by the group is to make greater use of our training facilities - by making them commercially available.

We must also accept that our membership is aging, and look at ways to attract younger generations.

The PCUG can only continue through the active involvement of its members and volunteers.

Member Survey 2013

2013-03-18T11:17:42Z

Lpb: /* Background */

This page documents the background, reports, analysis, and responses to the survey of PCUG members run in Feb-Mar 2013.

A total of 346 responses were received. A summary report with the statistics for the all the multi-choice questions, is available to members. A summary of the key points from these, and of the commonly raised issues in the free-text responses is given [[#PCUG Members Survey Summary|below]]. Details of the background to the survey are provided at the [[#Background|bottom of this page]]. The committee's responses to the survey results are shown [[#Response to Survey|next]].

== Response to Survey ==

Having reviewed the survey reports and suggestions, the committee has noted the following:

* note widely expressed desire to retain PCUG email/web (as we intend)
* agree with view that group should embrace wider range of platforms - need to make our branding indicate this, add training courses & SIGs to address
* will look at "kick-starting" Android & iOS SIGs by hosting visiting presenters from peer clubs in Sydney
* will look at cooperating with groups such as HAGSOG? on presenting genealogy courses
* will look at suggestion for some training courses in basic social media (eg Facebook, Twitter) use
* need to better advertise & promote existing & future SIGs

more TBA

== Volunteers Needed ==

* a number of opportunities have been identified, but need volunteers to make them happen
* need to encourage those who indicated they are willing to volunteer, but not already, to make themselves known
* need to emphasize that SIG coordinators don't need to be experts on the topic, just willing to make meetings happen
* for group to have a future need more users doing the helping!

== PCUG Members Survey Summary ==

=== Multi-choice Questions ===
* membership is valued by a significant majority, and recommeded by many
* likely to lose ~38% is close TIP, high, but not as high as feared
* 61% of membership is over 65, essentially no younger members
* ~30% have used centre / courses / SIGs in mid-term, fewer currently; ~35% have never used these; ~30% may use in future
* only 16% likely/will volunteer, need these people to get in touch
* see very mixed opinions about the future of the group

=== Free-text Responses ===

* many indicated they wanted to retain PCUG email/web (as we intend)
* many suggested we embrace a wider range of platforms and open-systems, esp smartphones & tablets; possibly even to point of changing name
* mixed opinions suggesting that we need to attract younger members for the continued health of the group BUT others warned this was seen to be very problematic, even disasterous for other groups in similar circumstances
* some suggest scaling down services, dropping centre, TIP etc; others would like to see more services at centre, perhaps help with systems
* several noted we need to stay community-focused as "users helping users"
* several noted they would like a regular newsletter (editor needed!); others commented that given ease of finding info on web, this was no longer so important
* some suggested we should offer more training esp for older users, others noted that ACT libraries are funded to provide such services, so why are we?
* courses suggested: smartphone (likely android & iOS separate), digital photography & photo editing, networking, adv excel, adv access, Win8, linux, genealogy
* SIGs suggested: smartphone (likely android & iOS separate), social media, linux (we already have a linux SIG!)

Take Home Message: there are a range of things members would like us to do, but unless more volunteers step forward to help do such, they wont happen and the group wont have a future!

== Background ==
'' This background was included in all-member emails sent on 20 Feb & 2 Mar 2013''.

The PCUG has reached a turning point in its operations. Many of the original reasons it was formed over 25 years ago have changed, due to technology advances and changes to the computer knowledge and experience of our members and potential members.

Furthermore with the gradual rollout of the NBN (National Broadband Network) throughout the local area and greater ISP competition, the PCUG's own TIP will most likely cease being a viable concern as an ISP, and become redundant. On that, please note that we intend to provide at least a year's warning of major changes to TIP's status. We also intend to continue to provide PCUG email addresses and member web areas as currently, but on an external host. It is the Internet access aspect of TIP that will likely not remain viable.

Hence it is time to evaluate a future direction for PCUG. We need your involvement to make it happen. The alternatives are simple - to do something and have a chance of continuing to operate, or do nothing - and die. Our declining membership and TIP usage has already created some years of annual financial deficits. This means the group will likely be unable to continue in its current form as early as the end of FY 2015/16. The changing ISP / TIP situation is likely to exacerbate this in future years. Also lack of volunteers is leading to difficulties in maintaining membership services, such as having meetings, training courses and similar activities.

For the group to continue into the future we must either significantly reduce operating costs and services or source alternative funding to replace what will be lost through the eventual closure of TIP. To do this, the group needs to more clearly identify what its aims and goals are, how best to meet the needs of its membership and to maximize the use of its resources.

One possible solution under investigation by the group is to make greater use of our training facilities - by making them commercially available.

We must also accept that our membership is aging, and look at ways to attract younger generations.

The PCUG can only continue through the active involvement of its members and volunteers.

Member Survey 2013

2013-03-18T11:16:44Z

Lpb: Add section on "Volunteers Needed"

This page documents the background, reports, analysis, and responses to the survey of PCUG members run in Feb-Mar 2013.

A total of 346 responses were received. A summary report with the statistics for the all the multi-choice questions, is available to members. A summary of the key points from these, and of the commonly raised issues in the free-text responses is given [[#PCUG Members Survey Summary|below]]. Details of the background to the survey are provided at the [[#Background|bottom of this page]]. The committee's responses to the survey results are shown [[#Response to Survey|next]].

== Response to Survey ==

Having reviewed the survey reports and suggestions, the committee has noted the following:

* note widely expressed desire to retain PCUG email/web (as we intend)
* agree with view that group should embrace wider range of platforms - need to make our branding indicate this, add training courses & SIGs to address
* will look at "kick-starting" Android & iOS SIGs by hosting visiting presenters from peer clubs in Sydney
* will look at cooperating with groups such as HAGSOG? on presenting genealogy courses
* will look at suggestion for some training courses in basic social media (eg Facebook, Twitter) use
* need to better advertise & promote existing & future SIGs

more TBA

== Volunteers Needed ==

* a number of opportunities have been identified, but need volunteers to make them happen
* need to encourage those who indicated they are willing to volunteer, but not already, to make themselves known
* need to emphasize that SIG coordinators don't need to be experts on the topic, just willing to make meetings happen
* for group to have a future need more users doing the helping!

== PCUG Members Survey Summary ==

=== Multi-choice Questions ===
* membership is valued by a significant majority, and recommeded by many
* likely to lose ~38% is close TIP, high, but not as high as feared
* 61% of membership is over 65, essentially no younger members
* ~30% have used centre / courses / SIGs in mid-term, fewer currently; ~35% have never used these; ~30% may use in future
* only 16% likely/will volunteer, need these people to get in touch
* see very mixed opinions about the future of the group

=== Free-text Responses ===

* many indicated they wanted to retain PCUG email/web (as we intend)
* many suggested we embrace a wider range of platforms and open-systems, esp smartphones & tablets; possibly even to point of changing name
* mixed opinions suggesting that we need to attract younger members for the continued health of the group BUT others warned this was seen to be very problematic, even disasterous for other groups in similar circumstances
* some suggest scaling down services, dropping centre, TIP etc; others would like to see more services at centre, perhaps help with systems
* several noted we need to stay community-focused as "users helping users"
* several noted they would like a regular newsletter (editor needed!); others commented that given ease of finding info on web, this was no longer so important
* some suggested we should offer more training esp for older users, others noted that ACT libraries are funded to provide such services, so why are we?
* courses suggested: smartphone (likely android & iOS separate), digital photography & photo editing, networking, adv excel, adv access, Win8, linux, genealogy
* SIGs suggested: smartphone (likely android & iOS separate), social media, linux (we already have a linux SIG!)

Take Home Message: there are a range of things members would like us to do, but unless more volunteers step forward to help do such, they wont happen and the group wont have a future!

== Background ==
''' This background was included in all-member emails sent on 20 Feb & 2 Mar 2013'''.

The PCUG has reached a turning point in its operations. Many of the original reasons it was formed over 25 years ago have changed, due to technology advances and changes to the computer knowledge and experience of our members and potential members.

Furthermore with the gradual rollout of the NBN (National Broadband Network) throughout the local area and greater ISP competition, the PCUG's own TIP will most likely cease being a viable concern as an ISP, and become redundant. On that, please note that we intend to provide at least a year's warning of major changes to TIP's status. We also intend to continue to provide PCUG email addresses and member web areas as currently, but on an external host. It is the Internet access aspect of TIP that will likely not remain viable.

Hence it is time to evaluate a future direction for PCUG. We need your involvement to make it happen. The alternatives are simple - to do something and have a chance of continuing to operate, or do nothing - and die. Our declining membership and TIP usage has already created some years of annual financial deficits. This means the group will likely be unable to continue in its current form as early as the end of FY 2015/16. The changing ISP / TIP situation is likely to exacerbate this in future years. Also lack of volunteers is leading to difficulties in maintaining membership services, such as having meetings, training courses and similar activities.

For the group to continue into the future we must either significantly reduce operating costs and services or source alternative funding to replace what will be lost through the eventual closure of TIP. To do this, the group needs to more clearly identify what its aims and goals are, how best to meet the needs of its membership and to maximize the use of its resources.

One possible solution under investigation by the group is to make greater use of our training facilities - by making them commercially available.

We must also accept that our membership is aging, and look at ways to attract younger generations.

The PCUG can only continue through the active involvement of its members and volunteers.

User:Lpb

2013-03-18T11:11:07Z

Lpb: Add link to new "Member Survey 2013" page, move survey response text to new page

Member Survey 2013

2013-03-18T11:10:34Z

Lpb: Initial content includes backgroud from Office Survey page, plus my summary of responses from Lpb scratch page

This page documents the background, reports, analysis, and responses to the survey of PCUG members run in Feb-Mar 2013.

A total of 346 responses were received. A summary report with the statistics for the all the multi-choice questions, is available to members. A summary of the key points from these, and of the commonly raised issues in the free-text responses is given [[#PCUG Members Survey Summary|below]]. Details of the background to the survey are provided at the [[#Background|bottom of this page]]. The committee's responses to the survey results are shown [[#Response to Survey|next]].

== Response to Survey ==

Having reviewed the survey reports and suggestions, the committee has noted the following:

* note widely expressed desire to retain PCUG email/web (as we intend)
* agree with view that group should embrace wider range of platforms - need to make our branding indicate this, add training courses & SIGs to address
* will look at "kick-starting" Android & iOS SIGs by hosting visiting presenters from peer clubs in Sydney
* will look at cooperating with groups such as HAGSOG? on presenting genealogy courses
* will look at suggestion for some training courses in basic social media (eg Facebook, Twitter) use
* need to better advertise & promote existing & future SIGs

more TBA

== PCUG Members Survey Summary ==

=== Multi-choice Questions ===
* membership is valued by a significant majority, and recommeded by many
* likely to lose ~38% is close TIP, high, but not as high as feared
* 61% of membership is over 65, essentially no younger members
* ~30% have used centre / courses / SIGs in mid-term, fewer currently; ~35% have never used these; ~30% may use in future
* only 16% likely/will volunteer, need these people to get in touch
* see very mixed opinions about the future of the group

=== Free-text Responses ===

* many indicated they wanted to retain PCUG email/web (as we intend)
* many suggested we embrace a wider range of platforms and open-systems, esp smartphones & tablets; possibly even to point of changing name
* mixed opinions suggesting that we need to attract younger members for the continued health of the group BUT others warned this was seen to be very problematic, even disasterous for other groups in similar circumstances
* some suggest scaling down services, dropping centre, TIP etc; others would like to see more services at centre, perhaps help with systems
* several noted we need to stay community-focused as "users helping users"
* several noted they would like a regular newsletter (editor needed!); others commented that given ease of finding info on web, this was no longer so important
* some suggested we should offer more training esp for older users, others noted that ACT libraries are funded to provide such services, so why are we?
* courses suggested: smartphone (likely android & iOS separate), digital photography & photo editing, networking, adv excel, adv access, Win8, linux, genealogy
* SIGs suggested: smartphone (likely android & iOS separate), social media, linux (we already have a linux SIG!)

Take Home Message: there are a range of things members would like us to do, but unless more volunteers step forward to help do such, they wont happen and the group wont have a future!

== Background ==
''' This background was included in all-member emails sent on 20 Feb & 2 Mar 2013'''.

The PCUG has reached a turning point in its operations. Many of the original reasons it was formed over 25 years ago have changed, due to technology advances and changes to the computer knowledge and experience of our members and potential members.

Furthermore with the gradual rollout of the NBN (National Broadband Network) throughout the local area and greater ISP competition, the PCUG's own TIP will most likely cease being a viable concern as an ISP, and become redundant. On that, please note that we intend to provide at least a year's warning of major changes to TIP's status. We also intend to continue to provide PCUG email addresses and member web areas as currently, but on an external host. It is the Internet access aspect of TIP that will likely not remain viable.

Hence it is time to evaluate a future direction for PCUG. We need your involvement to make it happen. The alternatives are simple - to do something and have a chance of continuing to operate, or do nothing - and die. Our declining membership and TIP usage has already created some years of annual financial deficits. This means the group will likely be unable to continue in its current form as early as the end of FY 2015/16. The changing ISP / TIP situation is likely to exacerbate this in future years. Also lack of volunteers is leading to difficulties in maintaining membership services, such as having meetings, training courses and similar activities.

For the group to continue into the future we must either significantly reduce operating costs and services or source alternative funding to replace what will be lost through the eventual closure of TIP. To do this, the group needs to more clearly identify what its aims and goals are, how best to meet the needs of its membership and to maximize the use of its resources.

One possible solution under investigation by the group is to make greater use of our training facilities - by making them commercially available.

We must also accept that our membership is aging, and look at ways to attract younger generations.

The PCUG can only continue through the active involvement of its members and volunteers.

User:Lpb

2013-03-17T00:29:12Z

Lpb: 2013 Member Survey summary

__NOTOC__
[[Image:lpb.jpg|thumb]]

'''Lawrie Brown''' is an Australian computer security guru, science fiction fan, mad keen dancer, and lover of the great outdoor landscape.

He is a long term [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP] admin, and is also currently secretary of the [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG].

See his [http://lpb.canb.auug.org.au/ personal homepage] for more details.

== Pages Being Worked On ==

* [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]
* [[More on Working with Wikis]]
* [[Wiki Skins]]
* [[Android App Recommendations]]
* [[Draft Page]]

== Markup Play Area - Anything Goes! ==

== Lawrie's PCUG Members Survey Summary ==

=== Multi-choice Questions ===
* membership is valued by a significant majority, and recommeded by many
* likely to lose ~38% is close TIP, high, but not as high as feared
* 61% of membership is over 65, essentially no younger members
* ~30% have used centre / courses / SIGs in mid-term, fewer currently; ~35% have never used these; ~30% may use in future
* only 16% likely/will volunteer, need these people to get in touch
* see very mixed opinions about the future of the group

=== Free-text Responses ===

* many indicated they wanted to retain PCUG email/web (as we intend)
* many suggested we embrace a wider range of platforms and open-systems, esp smartphones & tablets; possibly even to point of changing name
* mixed opinions suggesting that we need to attract younger members for the continued health of the group BUT others warned this was seen to be very problematic, even disasterous for other groups in similar circumstances
* some suggest scaling down services, dropping centre, TIP etc; others would like to see more services at centre, perhaps help with systems
* several noted we need to stay community-focused as "users helping users"
* several noted they would like a regular newsletter (editor needed!); others commented that given ease of finding info on web, this was no longer so important
* some suggested we should offer more training esp for older users, others noted that ACT libraries are funded to provide such services, so why are we?
* courses suggested: smartphone (likely android & iOS separate), digital photography & photo editing, networking, adv excel, adv access, Win8, linux
* SIGs suggested: smartphone (likely android & iOS separate), social media, linux?

Take Home Message: there are a range of things members would like us to do, but unless more volunteers step forward to help do such, they wont happen and the group wont have a future!

=== Playing with Tables ===

{|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px"
|class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"|

{|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff"
|-
|style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"|
===Computer Systems===
|-
|style="color:#000"|

==== T1 ====
*
*

|-
|}

|class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"|
{| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff"
|-
|style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"|
=== Internet ===
|-
|style="color:#000"|

==== T2 ====
*
*

|-
|}

|class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"|
{| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff"
|style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"|
=== Peripherals ===
|-
|style="color:#000"|

==== T3 ====
*
*

|-
|}

|class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"|
{| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff"
|style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"|
=== Software ===
|-
|style="color:#000"|

==== T4 ====
*
*

|-
|}
|}

User:Lpb

2013-03-17T00:11:02Z

Lpb: Survey summary notes

__NOTOC__
[[Image:lpb.jpg|thumb]]

'''Lawrie Brown''' is an Australian computer security guru, science fiction fan, mad keen dancer, and lover of the great outdoor landscape.

He is a long term [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP] admin, and is also currently secretary of the [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG].

See his [http://lpb.canb.auug.org.au/ personal homepage] for more details.

== Pages Being Worked On ==

* [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]
* [[More on Working with Wikis]]
* [[Wiki Skins]]
* [[Android App Recommendations]]
* [[Draft Page]]

== Markup Play Area - Anything Goes! ==

== Lawrie's PCUG Members Survey Summary ==

=== Multi-choice Questions ===
* membership is valued & promoted by a significant majority
* likely to lose ~38% is close TIP, high, but not as high as feared
* 61% of membership is over 65, essentially no younger members
* ~30% have used centre / courses / SIGs in mid-term, fewer currently; ~35% have never used these; ~30% may use in future
* only 16% likely/will volunteer, need these people to get in touch
* see very mixed opinions about the future of the group

=== Free-text Responses ===

* many indicated they wanted to retain PCUG email/web (as we intend)
* many suggested we embrace a wider range of platforms, esp smartphones & tablets; possibly even to point of changing name
* mixed opinions suggesting that we need to attract younger members for the continued health of the group BUT others warned this was seen to be very problematic, even disasterous for other groups in similar circumstances

=== Playing with Tables ===

{|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px"
|class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"|

{|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff"
|-
|style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"|
===Computer Systems===
|-
|style="color:#000"|

==== T1 ====
*
*

|-
|}

|class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"|
{| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff"
|-
|style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"|
=== Internet ===
|-
|style="color:#000"|

==== T2 ====
*
*

|-
|}

|class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"|
{| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff"
|style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"|
=== Peripherals ===
|-
|style="color:#000"|

==== T3 ====
*
*

|-
|}

|class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"|
{| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff"
|style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"|
=== Software ===
|-
|style="color:#000"|

==== T4 ====
*
*

|-
|}
|}

Newsletters

2012-12-03T23:44:09Z

Lpb: /* ASCCA */ Add Nov & Dec 12

This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources.

Please note that many of these newsletters are stored in the secure members area on our web server, and you will be asked to login there to access these.

== [http://www.apcug.net APCUG] ==
Newsletters from the (American based) ''[http://www.apcug.net Association of Personal Computer User Groups]'':
; 2012
: [http://reports.apcug.org APCUG Reports]: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q1.pdf Q1], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q2.pdf Q2]
: NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Aug12.pdf Aug], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Oct12.pdf Oct], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Nov12.html Nov].

; 2011
: NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Sep11.pdf Sep], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Dec11.pdf Dec].

See also their details on [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Nov12_Offer.pdf What We Offer] (received Nov 2012).

== [http://www.ascca.org.au ASCCA]==
Newsletters from the ''[http://www.ascca.org.au Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association]'':
; 2012
: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Feb12.pdf Feb], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Mar12.pdf Mar], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_May12.pdf May], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jun12.pdf Jun], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Aug12.pdf Aug], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Sept12.pdf Sept], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Oct12.pdf Oct], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Nov12.pdf Nov], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Dec12.pdf Dec].

== [http://www.connectingup.org Connecting Up/DonorTec] ==
Connecting Up is a not-for-profit organisation that works to unleash the power of not-for-profits in Australia and New Zealand. DonorTec provides donated and discounted technology products and services from companies such as Microsoft, Cisco, Symantec, Sophos and Kaspersky to eligible income tax exempt (ITE) Australian nonprofit groups. Through this program your nonprofit can access the latest products. See their [http://www.connectingup.org website] for further details.

== [http://www.hobartpcgroup.org.au Hobart Computer Users Group] ==
Their latest newsletter is available online at [http://newsletter.hobartpcgroup.org.au http://newsletter.hobartpcgroup.org.au]

----

Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area.

Please also note that information published on this wiki is viewable by anyone. Please ensure any copyright on content added here grants permission for this. Otherwise save the actual item in the secure members server which restricts access to members only, and just link to it from here.

[[Category:Newsletters]]

Newsletters

2012-11-26T10:19:49Z

Lpb: /* APCUG */

This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources.

Please note that many of these newsletters are stored in the secure members area on our web server, and you will be asked to login there to access these.

== [http://www.apcug.net APCUG] ==
Newsletters from the (American based) ''[http://www.apcug.net Association of Personal Computer User Groups]'':
; 2012
: [http://reports.apcug.org APCUG Reports]: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q1.pdf Q1], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q2.pdf Q2]
: NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Aug12.pdf Aug], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Oct12.pdf Oct], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Nov12.html Nov].

; 2011
: NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Sep11.pdf Sep], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Dec11.pdf Dec].

See also their details on [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Nov12_Offer.pdf What We Offer] (received Nov 2012).

== [http://www.ascca.org.au ASCCA]==
Newsletters from the ''[http://www.ascca.org.au Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association]'':
; 2012
: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Feb12.pdf Feb], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Mar12.pdf Mar], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_May12.pdf May], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jun12.pdf Jun], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Aug12.pdf Aug], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Sept12.pdf Sept], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Oct12.pdf Oct].

== [http://www.connectingup.org Connecting Up/DonorTec] ==
Connecting Up is a not-for-profit organisation that works to unleash the power of not-for-profits in Australia and New Zealand. DonorTec provides donated and discounted technology products and services from companies such as Microsoft, Cisco, Symantec, Sophos and Kaspersky to eligible income tax exempt (ITE) Australian nonprofit groups. Through this program your nonprofit can access the latest products. See their [http://www.connectingup.org website] for further details.

== [http://www.hobartpcgroup.org.au Hobart Computer Users Group] ==
Their latest newsletter is available online at [http://newsletter.hobartpcgroup.org.au http://newsletter.hobartpcgroup.org.au]

----

Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area.

Please also note that information published on this wiki is viewable by anyone. Please ensure any copyright on content added here grants permission for this. Otherwise save the actual item in the secure members server which restricts access to members only, and just link to it from here.

[[Category:Newsletters]]

Newsletters

2012-11-26T10:18:27Z

Lpb: /* APCUG */ Add Nov12 NOOZ & WHat Offer links

This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources.

Please note that many of these newsletters are stored in the secure members area on our web server, and you will be asked to login there to access these.

== [http://www.apcug.net APCUG] ==
Newsletters from the (American based) ''[http://www.apcug.net Association of Personal Computer User Groups]'':
; 2012
: [http://reports.apcug.org APCUG Reports]: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q1.pdf Q1], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q2.pdf Q2]
: NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Aug12.pdf Aug], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Oct12.pdf Oct], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Nov12.html Nov].

; 2011
: NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Sep11.pdf Sep], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Dec11.pdf Dec].

See also their details on [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Nov12_Offer.pdf What We Offer].

== [http://www.ascca.org.au ASCCA]==
Newsletters from the ''[http://www.ascca.org.au Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association]'':
; 2012
: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Feb12.pdf Feb], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Mar12.pdf Mar], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_May12.pdf May], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jun12.pdf Jun], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Aug12.pdf Aug], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Sept12.pdf Sept], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Oct12.pdf Oct].

== [http://www.connectingup.org Connecting Up/DonorTec] ==
Connecting Up is a not-for-profit organisation that works to unleash the power of not-for-profits in Australia and New Zealand. DonorTec provides donated and discounted technology products and services from companies such as Microsoft, Cisco, Symantec, Sophos and Kaspersky to eligible income tax exempt (ITE) Australian nonprofit groups. Through this program your nonprofit can access the latest products. See their [http://www.connectingup.org website] for further details.

== [http://www.hobartpcgroup.org.au Hobart Computer Users Group] ==
Their latest newsletter is available online at [http://newsletter.hobartpcgroup.org.au http://newsletter.hobartpcgroup.org.au]

----

Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area.

Please also note that information published on this wiki is viewable by anyone. Please ensure any copyright on content added here grants permission for this. Otherwise save the actual item in the secure members server which restricts access to members only, and just link to it from here.

[[Category:Newsletters]]

Newsletters

2012-10-22T03:07:54Z

Lpb: /* APCUG */ Add link to NOOZ_Oct12.pdf

Newsletters

2012-10-02T01:57:13Z

Lpb: /* ASCCA */ Add Oct12 link