DuckDuckGo

https://duckduckgo.com AND https://www.qwant.com are two popular #search engines with a rightous claims! "The search engine that doesn't track you" (DuckDuckGo) and "The search engine that respects your privacy" (QwantQwant), It is an interesting prospect since most of us don't even realize how valuable our data (both individually, and collectively) is to businesses and organizations the world over! While we have not had time to do a full review, if either search engine can live up to their claims above, posted boldly on each of their search/home pages, respectively. If they truly don't track your search history or pass your #metadata to 3rd parties, well that is not something to sneeze at in this world where selecting the option within your current browser to "tell pages not to track me", all but guarantees the opposite; then it is definitely worth a look. We'll keep on it. Feel free to let us know what you think as well! Stay safe, have fun, and be free! Derek Shocklee Founder, SimpleAssistme - Your Tech Partner (http://ift.tt/2Brpbpp) #simpleassistmeblog
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Lose Your Receipt? Walmart Has A Hotline For You

Trying to take something back this Christmas, but can't find the receipt? No worries, as long as you have the card you used... Walmart is a popular one, and there are similar things that can be done by calling the store where the item had been purchased, but it is good to know all hope isn't lost in the event you lose that flimsy piece of paper! #simpleassistmeblog http://ift.tt/2ChdD9e Derek Shocklee
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The difference between Google Now and Google Assistant

http://ift.tt/2duVfeE Derek Shocklee
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The 'Secure' Wi-Fi Standard Has a Huge, Dangerous Flaw

If you haven't heard about the "WIFI Hack" on the news over the past few days, peep it and check out the article below. Almost everyone secures their #router with a passphrase, and either select or choose the default security protocol: WPA-2 (#Wi-Fi Protected Access II), essentially the encryption method securing your device with the router & network. Well, now this hack called "#KRACK" (assume pun absolutely intended) has been unveiled as a major security threat for millions, and well, it sucks. (See article enclosed) Ah, but perhaps some less bad news, apparently MicrosoftMicrosoft has announced that it has already been patched, so make sure your updates are set for Automatic Updates. As my pappy says, It never ever hurts to educate oneself further, and maybe find out more about staying safe in a dynamic world (mildly speaking lol). http://ift.tt/2xKSByw #simpleassistmeblog #simpleassist
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How to Use Cortana instead of Google Now on Android - Make Tech Easier

The Age of the Digital Assistant At some point, folks will decide who their default assistant is going to be as functionality for the next generation of "Digital Assistants" are rapidly innovating to do everything from control devices in our homes, to playing your favorite music. I mean, anyone who ever saw an episode of Star Trek had to think “Wow if only my computer could do that!” (or maybe I’m just a nerd). Seriously though, everyone knows someone who won’t use, or will only minimally use technology because they don't feel comfortable “touching” the hardware. Therefore, an Intelligent interface which understands the conversational vernacular and LEARNS from the user; perhaps it doesn’t require foreknowledge of commands or even having to know where the ON button is located; it will be unlike any other type of device, augmenting itself with every use, becoming self-fulfilling. @Apple’s #Siri, @Amazon’s #Alexa @Microsoft’s #Cortana, @Samasung’s latest: #Bixby (available on Samsung devices 8 and up) are rapidly innovating and fighting for their place to dominate in this space. Perhaps this will bring about a sea change which brings even MORE people into the technology fold, for better or for worse becoming a catalyst for major advances in device interoperability; while continuing to broaden the scope and leverage of technology viz vis the continual simplification of a “conversational” INTERFACE that ultimately anyone could use without any training sounds downright futuristic to me, although I temper this with the understanding that there are also a lot of challenges, like privacy and security yet to perfect as well. It’s already begun and comes down to what works for you. For example, let's say you're like me: a non-Apple guy with a Windows PC, an Xbox One, sporting a Galaxy phone with Android. Now personally, I think the best Assistant is Google / Google Now which can control everything on my phone and thus far seems to have more functionality based on its powerful back than Microsoft’s Cortana. However, Interoperability being the name of the game, I am using Cortana for Android (since Cortana is built into Windows 10 which drives Microsoft PC and Gaming platform) so I have Cortana on my Galaxy phone. I must admit, it has some very cool abilities to coordinate and streamline my entertainment, schedule, and my work and personal stuff at home or on the go. That’s just one man’s opinion anyway. Check out the article, it’s interesting… the future is almost here! #technology #android #windows #simpleassist
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How to Create ISO Files From Discs on Windows, Mac, and Linux

Although Windows 10 (and most recent versions) include the ability to copy, access, and generally manage disc image files (most commonly #iso files), unforunately there is no way to take your current files or rip an image from a disc and store it as an .iso file without 3rd party software. NOTE: The attached instructional will work for #mac as well) This post includes a step-by-step article from the well respected publisher @How-To Geek not only explaining the how-to in an easy to understand article, but what is most important to me, why they chose the 3rd party tool they recommended and why. Here is adirect download to the infaburn -http://ift.tt/2gDUgcg As always, I try anything I recommend. I keep my own digital copy of all records, and after I received a disc from a radiologist I went looking for a prgoram and found this and many other sources, but none that made point of what not to do - making it easy to recommend to my readers! Anyhow, it worked perfectly for making some #backup #image (iso) copies of x-rays and radiology reports from their DVD to my records. Now I can simply re-burn the images to disc (if I give the original discs to a doctor) or even a thumb or cloud drive. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from your Technology Partner! As always, if you need a SimpleAssist, please feel free to contact us for all of your holiday technology needs! #simpleassistmeblog
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Sling TV review

SimpleAssist: Revolutionary Tech Quick Look Sling TV Interested in cutting the cable cord / kicking the dish, or low cost alternative to prepackaged television? If the idea of no setup, no fees, and no contract tickles your fancy, then you'll want to check this out. If you have an Xbox (or PC or Mac or any mobile device - check the article for all devices) and a decent internet connection, you can now enjoy content live and on-demand content with this no contract, internet based cable killer.. While they still use the package Model (which you build) , the groups are are granular by any relative comparison to cable or satellite options. (note. The parent company, Dish Network. So for between 20 and 40 bucks a month give or take - following a free 7 day trial (which does not charge up front, sans a quick Auth on your CC) which can be canceled with ease, you can give cable the boot.. Perfect for those who travel often, or who only need bare bones TV for a good price. There are things that hopefully will improve with the interface, and if you have a weak or unstable internet connection, it could be more headaches than its worth .. But hence the trial.. You'll be able to see if it's for you. I've personally been waiting for the cable cutting revolution, and have used this service (among others) over 4 times on and off over the past year, and I'll say one thing sure: they keep improving it.. They didn't even offer networks when they first came out.. Overall I believe they are a little ahead of the game in my opinion, so we'll see what happens. I recommend doing the trial with all the options. HBO go (and other on demand) is built in, and the #SlingTV app works for all kinds of devices (best experience has been on computer and #Xbox for me personally) . As they said in the article attached.. "It's simple, just the way we like it." #cutthecord #takebacktv #simpleassistblog
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Google Calendar’s new Goals will help find you time for self-improvement

The SimpleAssist - SimplEassistme.com #Technology News-break: Google Goals - Find time for just about anything... Personally, for me this could very well signify our arrival to the future! Okay, maybe that is a little overstated, but as someone who needs the calendar in order to function, I know that I have been waiting for something like this for a long time. #Google uses #AI - or Artificial Intelligence - type #tech to take the detail from our smartphones on our very busy daily lives to help you find "free time" which is tailored to your criteria and the free time on your calendar. However, I have not fully evaluated the product, so while I am very excited about doing so, an official endorsement and insight will be forthcoming! Check out this video from CNBC http://ift.tt/1MuFd3b
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What Happens If I Click That Link?

Are #HTML email safe and how can I tell? Today, I had a discussion with a friend about an email I had forwarded. It was an HTML type email (an email with pictures and code which looks like a Web page) from a "eventful.com" : a website service that lets users know things going on in their area. Interestingly enough, not only is this person a friend: he's a client who had utilized my services to bring a laptop back from a severe malware infection, and has done very well with preventing another such problem. While I am sure that appears like shameless self promotion, it does have bearing on the crux of the lesson here . ☺ When he initially shared his hesitation interacting with the HTML links contained within the email, it raised a the question that I figure would benefit all: Are HTML email safe and how can I tell? My email and the attached blog hope to allow users to see it is not so black and white, and as with most things, knowledge and understanding is truly the best answer. After thinking about it for a moment, it became my opinion that my friends concerns had been the correct instinct by practicing safety best practices by hesitating before clicking on a link contained within a forwarded email and discussing with me later. See, even though I had forwarded the email and he wanted to assume it was safe (and I am very careful to make sure before I forward something), I appreciated the virtue of online safety above all... And 9f course the realization that it isn't so simple. You see, tech folks like myself who make these type of safety recommendations also understand the dynamic nature of malware (for example, it's easy to make an email appear from someone else or a "spoofing"), So the general recommendation (especially for folks using technology from their employers) is that users should be very wary on interacting with links in email, and generally avoid it altogether. As you may have guessed, the answer isn't so simple. Obviously legitimate email does get sent via a HTML emails, and along with other types of information from sharing programs such as RSS and social media feeds, are going to be used to entice the user to interact with their site or tools. Therefore, applying a one size all fix such as "don't open links in HTML email" doesn't really apply, nor is it a convenient or effective option. However, I wanted to take it a step forward and share a great write up that will help my friend and anyone else who is interested: "authenticating" HTML emails by understanding the finer points, and understanding the fundamentals. Have questions or need assistance? Contact me using the contact us button above! #simpleassistmeblog http://ift.tt/1WlYki9
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How to Stream Kodi to Chromecast, Xbox One, DLNA Devices

If you use #Kodi for #Android and want to easily stream and watch on your TV using your #Xbox or #Chromecast, than this is the tip for you. I have successfully done this now on about 6 varying Android devices . I use my #Galaxy to watch Kodi more than my PC at this point. Looking to bring your entertainment capabilities into the 21st century, without overspending on gadgets and services? Get a SimpleAssist and SELECT "Contact Us" above or click http://bit.ly/1FqyUs3. #simpleassistmeblog #simpleassist
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Google Voice with your existing number | Google Voice Blog

#visusalvoicemail #googlevoice #google #android #iphone
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How to Install Any Version of Windows from Other Network Computers

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Windows 10

Need a Windows disc? Create #Windows 10 Installation and Recovery #media / installation disc / repair drive
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How to work around Straight Talk's visual voice mail limitation - CNET

I am a #GoogleVoice user my self... works wonderfully on my #Android #SamsungGalaxy #S5, always has! #Cellphone #StraightTalk #voicemail #smartphone #ios
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This is Microsoft's Cortana app for Android

As most Windows 7 and Windows 8 users now know, the FREE Windows 10 is coming to a download near you starting July 29th. Having been a Beta tester ( as well as a Microsoft Certified Partner), I've had the opportunity to evaluate the Windows Insider preview for a few months now. As your technology partner, SimpleAssist will will be your one stop shop for tips, assistance and advice as the new Windows 10 rolls our, or for that matter , any device platform operating system: mobile or otherwise It seems Microsoft has finally gotten it right. There has been no better version of Windows that I've ever seen since XP. Gun shy after Windows 8? There were many who didn't like that Metro style menu in Windows 8, but don't worry they killed it... Instead combining it with the old style start menu from previous Windows versions, making for a truly combined classic and mobile experience. Windows 10 is a free upgrade, another brilliant move on Microsoft part considering considering the whole XP debacle. There are some awesome new features as well, including Cortana: the series style, Interactive assistance and amazing Xbox integration for a gaming and home theatre experience like no other I have seen out of the box. They are even playing nice with Android, and for today's Windows 10 tip, say hello to #Cortana for Android! I'll be having more info the coming weeks, tips, insider information, and much more. I highly recommend the update. Make sure to follow us, http://ift.tt/1CO5vsf or @simpleassist on Twitter. #xbox #Windows10 #Android
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Use Facebook to Generate Appointments with a Click-To-Schedule Button |

SimpleAssist Small Business QuikTip: Are using social media to connect with customers? Check out this custom solution for Facebook calendar integration #in #smallbusiness #technology
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Streak’s New iPhone App Is A CRM Service With Gmail Baked In

SimpleAssist BusinessSync App Tip: Say hello to Streak, a SUPER simple, yet powerful #CRM for #smallbusiness that transforms your Gmail #inbox into something great while allowing you to "go #mobile"! #simpleassistmeblog #simpleassist
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Hands-On with Windows 8.1: Play

Xbox One or 360 users. #Stream your screen! Tips, advice, and more - -Go beyond, with your technology partner! SimpleAssist - SimplEassistme.com
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Fingbox

Need help setting up or managing your #WiFi network? Now you can get some SimpleAssistance for FREE! You wouldn't leave your car open with the keys in it, and you definitely wouldn't put a sign up that says " I left my keys in the car please feel free to take her for a spin ", right? I would hope not at least! :-) If you are broadcasting an unsecured ( no password) Wi-Fi network, you are putting yourself and anyone else who connects to the to your network at serious at risk for information / identity theft, possibly worse. Don't worry, you do not have to be an expert in Wifi Tech... You just need a #SimpleAssist! From now until May 1st, 2015 SimpleAssist will help you secure your unsecured, non password protected networks*, with 1 router for free! To qualify for the offer. Simply LIKE and FOLLOW our http://ift.tt/1NzpXfU page and stay up to date with the latest technology solutions. Available FIRST come first serve while supplies last. Redeem and Schedule a free consultation by Contacting us for more information at http://ift.tt/1DlOyUk * Promo applies to home networks only. Offer not valid for business / office networks, however for a limited time, business / office Network security services available at a reduced rate Referrals: SimpleAssist assist is a new kind of service and our customers make our best sales people. Ask about the customer loyalty referral program #SimpleAssistmeblog @savannahflea Saugerties Online Yard/Garage Sale You are probably from Saugerties if.... Ulster County Yard Sale Free Cycle Greene County NY JUST FREE STUFF (ULSTER COUNTY NY) #InternetSecurity #networking SINGLE AND AVAILABLE

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Samsung Galaxy S5: Top 15 tips and tricks

Saugerties Online Yard/Garage Sale Always finding a way to help you get the most out of your gadgets for Kingston, NY Yard Sale (and surrounding areas). Get a free consultation today at http://ift.tt/1zqWb6S, or hashtag to contact your one and only technology partner for help, advice and assistance in all things technology related. SAUGERTIES ONLINE VIDEO GAME YARDSALE

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