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Cloudeight Direct Computer Care Repair Keys
BUY ONE and GET ONE FREE!

From now through Mother's Day, you can buy one Cloudeight Direct Computer Care Repair Key at the regular price or $50  - and we'll give you one free. You can give the second key to Mom or anyone you like - or keep it for yourself. Don't miss out. Cloudeight Direct Computer Care Repair Keys never expire - they are good until you use them! Offer valid through Monday, May 15, 2023 only.

Get more information and/or take advantage of this special offer by visiting this page.

Hi Michael. As far as I know, we have never recommended Old Geeks or OlderGeeks. I can't find anything we ever wrote that recommended it.

 

I visited OlderGeeks.com and found it not only blocked by Emsisoft but also flagged by Google. See the images below.

 

Emsisoft flags oldergeeks.com but does allow you to choose to visit the site, but I would not recommend you override Emsisoft in this case.  As you can see below, it's also flagged by Google.

 

 

If you can tell me where we mentioned Oldergeeks, I will make sure it's removed from anything we wrote - things can change over time and we will always update anything that is incorrect as soon as we find out.

 

We would suggest you steer clear of Oldergeeks.

Des asks about SFC and DISM scans
Hi Guys. Thanks for your help in the past, as always it's greatly appreciated.  A new issue I stumbled on whilst researching SFC /scannow which I use regularly. Apparently, there is another test that can be used to repair windows as well and can be used after running Scannow.   That is repairing Windows using the DISM Tool.  Firstly do you recommend it?  And if you do at what point should it be used?  Also, can the ordinary layman who has limited computer knowledge use it without risk just to be sure that Windows is OK. Many thanks. Des

Our answer
Hi Des. Rather than going into the hows and whys of running SFC and DISM scans, I'm going to send you off to read one of several posts we've written about those two scans.

Dave wants to turn off Windows automatic updates
How do I turn off Windows 10 auto-updates? Dave.

Our answer
Hi Dave. First of all, we want to point out that when you read about problems with Windows Updates, you're hearing the voices of a scant minority of Windows users - less than 5% of Windows users have problems with Windows Updates. And remember that those who have problems have louder voices than those who do not.

Get a Cloudeight Direct Computer Care Senior Pass for $79!

For a limited time, you can buy a Cloudeight Direct SeniorPass for $20 off our regular price! Our Cloudeight SeniorPass is good for unlimited computer repairs for one full year from the date you first use it. It's like having insurance for your computer. And during this sale, you can get a SeniorPass for $20 off the regular price of $99.00. SeniorPass is for everyone 55 years of age or older. Offer valid through Monday, May 15, 2023 only.

Get more information and/or take advantage of this special offer by visiting this page.

Janice wants suggestions for safe sites for desktop wallpaper and animated gifs
Do you know of any safe websites where I can download animation graphics or download pretty desktop pictures? I've been with you folks since way back when I loved and used your stationery. Thank you for all you do for us.

Our answer
Hi Janice. Thank you! 

Jill says all her icons disappeared from her taskbar more than once
A couple of weeks ago, the icons in my taskbar suddenly went blank, i.e., no icon. Three of them are Windows apps: Outlook, Word, and Excel and there are four non-Windows apps.

This is the 2nd time this has happened, and I believe that Windows updates cause this. I don't remember how I got the icons back from the first time ... and I don't know how to fix it 'again'. I've read articles on Microsoft, but they don't write about this particular situation.

Help, please... Jill

Jim says Microsoft is causing a problem with his internet connection
I have a problem with Microsoft. Daily there is an interruption of No INTERNET. This may last for one minute or several minutes. It appears that they are trying to fix something that is not broken. Am I the only one having this problem? Jim.

Our answer
Hi Jim. Microsoft can be blamed for many things and sometimes rightly so. But your internet service is provided by your ISP (Internet Service Provider) like Comcast, Spectrum, etc. The first thing you should do is contact your provider. They can check to make sure the problem is not with your modem/router. If they find no problems, then it's most likely a problem with your network adapter in your PC's hardware. There are easy fixes for both wireless and Ethernet adapters. Here's an article about wireless network adapters and showing how easy it is to replace one. The article was written for Windows 10 but applies to Windows 11 as well.

We gladly help everyone who writes every day by answering their questions and helping to solve their computer problems. Please help us continue to do that!

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Our Top Ten Windows Key Shortcuts
Windows 10 / Windows 11

Everyone uses their computers in different ways. We’re shortcut fans; anything that saves time is welcome. If you’re not using Windows Key shortcuts you’re missing out. Windows Key shortcuts can save you time, but only if you use them.

We put our heads together this morning to come up with a list of what we think are the ten most valuable and useful Windows Key shortcuts. These are the Windows Key shortcuts we use most often, and we hope you find these shortcuts useful too!

Using Windows Key shortcuts is a great way to save time. Do you use Windows Key shortcuts as much as we do?  

18 Windows Tools Available from the System Configuration Utility
Windows 10 / Windows 11

Windows has some really good built-in utilities that are as good or better than many freeware utilities that you’ll find offered for download for the multitude of download sites out there. 

And while you can access these tools in many ways, perhaps the easiest way is to choose from a list. The System Configuration Tool’s dialog shows you a list of 18 Windows tools you can choose from. 

To open the System Configuration Utility type SYSCONFIG in the taskbar search. Or press and hold down the Windows key and tap the r key, then type MSCONFIG in the Run box and press Enter.  Next, make sure the Tools tab is selected.

The 18 tools listed are the same whether you’re using Windows 10 or Windows 11.

From the System Configuration Utility (Windows 10 and Windows 11) you can view and launch any of the 18 different Windows tools.

About Windows
Change UAC Settings
Security and Maintenance
Windows Troubleshooting
Computer Management
System Information
Event Viewer
Programs (Launch, add, or remove programs and Windows components)
System Properties
Internet Options
Internet Protocol Configuration
Performance Monitor
Resource Monitor
Task Manager
Command Prompt
Registry Editor
Remote Assistance
System Restore

You can launch any of these 18 tools by highlighting the tool you want to run and then clicking the “Launch” button.  For example, let’s run System Information.

Find System Information in the list and click it to highlight it. Then press the “Launch” button.

The System Information tool opens and from it, you can glean all kinds of information about your computer. See?

And as with most things in Windows, you can do identical things in different ways. For example, you can also open System Information this way.

1. Hold down the Windows key and tap the r key
2. In the Run box type MSINFO32
3. Press Enter.

The advantage of using the System Configuration Utility is that you will see a list of 18 tools to select from and they’re all at your fingertips. 

We Want to Help You Stay Safe on the Internet
A tip for everyone

As AI (artificial intelligence) becomes more sophisticated so will the scammers. We think it’s important that you be informed and aware of the different types of scams criminals use and to remember that armed with AI, these miscreants will become more sophisticated. We want you to be safe, so today we’re going to talk about some of the scams that you may encounter and how to deal with them. Our mission is to help you stay safe on the internet. We hope that the information we’ve included here will help you and keep you safer when you’re using the internet.

Common Scams

Impersonation Scams – Hackers can spoof numbers for government agencies, like the IRS, debt collectors, your local bank, or even people you know, asking for sensitive information.

Reactivation Scams – Scammers may send text messages asking you to reactivate your account by clicking on a link or calling a number.

Delivery Notification Scams – You may receive a text message or email saying that you have a package waiting for you and to click the link to track it.

Prize Scams – Scammers might claim that you have won a large prize or lottery and are required to pay an ‘administrative fee’ in order to claim it.

Family Emergency Scams – You may receive a call from someone pretending to be a loved one in distress and asking for money to help them out with an emergency.

How to Spot Scams

Understand that scammers often pretend to be from trusted organizations. They may utilize technology to impersonate names and phone numbers. So what you see on your device may not be real.

Criminals may include high-pressure, urgent requests — citing a problem or prize that needs your immediate attention.

Many phishing emails or texts will contain grammatical errors in the message or sender’s email address.

Scammers may also tell you a specific payment method that you must use to remedy the situation—often suggesting gift cards or cryptocurrency.

They may also send you a check to deposit, asking you to send back a portion of the money. This is a trick to get your bank account information.

Reporting Fraud

If you suspect suspicious account activity or receive an email, voice mail, or text message that appears to be from your bank or credit card company, but you suspect fraud, do not click on any links, open any attachments or enter any requested information. These could be attempts to obtain your personal information.

ATM/Debit Card Fraud

Notify your bank immediately.

Credit Card Fraud

Notify your credit card company immediately. They can help you prevent further financial loss.

Identity Theft

If you believe your identity has been stolen, call your bank(s) or credit card company(companies) to report the issue, so they can put holds on your accounts.

File a Universal ID Theft Affidavit

To begin the identity theft reporting process, use the universal ID Theft Affidavit at www.ftc.gov/idtheft to have a fraud alert placed on your credit file.

You can also call the Federal Trade Commission’s toll-free ID Theft Hotline at 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338) for more information.

In case of suspected fraud, most banks will assist you with opening a new checking account and with the transfer of funds. Some banks will provide you with a starter box of free checks for your new account to help you get started more quickly.

How to avoid scams and protect your identity

1. Never click on links or open attachments from unknown senders.

Don’t respond to suspicious messages or call phone numbers provided in suspicious messages — Instead, go to the source by reaching out to the sender via their official phone number or webpage.

Contact your bank directly or visit your bank in person and speak with someone who can help you.

2. Never provide your personal or financial information.

Banks and credit card companies will never call, text, or email you asking for your personal information, secure access codes, or login credentials.

3. Block unwanted calls or text messages.

Don’t allow yourself to be pressured to act. Think before you take any action.

4. Be proactive and be prepared.

Create a list of your banks and credit/debit card companies and include contact information for each. Hopefully, you’ll never need it, but if you do you’ll have the information at your fingertips so you can act immediately if you suspect you’ve been a victim of fraud.

Want more tips, tricks, and information?

We have thousands of Windows tips, tricks, and more on our InfoAve website.

Subscribe to our free InfoAve Daily newsletter.

Now available: Reg Organizer 9.1

If you purchased or renewed Reg Organizer through Cloudeight within the last 12 months, you're entitled to a free version upgrade to Reg Organizer 9.1. Works great with Windows 10 and Windows 11!

Save $14 on Reg Organizer right now!

Reg Organizer - A Swiss Army Knife of Windows Tools - Works Great on Windows 10!

How Well Do You Write?

Check Your Writing, Get a Grade, and More, with Paper Rater

Just to be honest with you, let me tell you that we use Grammarly (free version, cuz we’re broke) to check our writing for spelling and grammar errors. We used to use EB, but she got old and…

No, seriously, folks, Grammarly does a good job of finding glaring grammatical errors, misspellings, and the like.

But one thing Grammarly (free) does not do is give you scathing reviews of your writing ability. Plus you do have to cough up your email address and sign up for an account to use it – yes, even the free version.

Not only does Paper Rater not require you to sign up for an account, but it will also give you a detailed critique of your writing prowess. And if you’re a masochist, it will grade your writing and give you a letter grade… just like my good old 8th-grade English teacher, Mrs. McComb used to do. Mrs.McComb almost convinced me I couldn’t write at all, but later, in high school, Mr. Zimmer told me I should keep on writing after he feasted his eyes upon my classic short story “The Attack of the Giant Blueberries”. I would gladly share that story with you, but  I’m sorry to say that that wonderful masterpiece has disintegrated into the past along with most of my life.

Anyway…

PaperRater’s grammar and spelling checker can find grammar and spelling errors and help you correct them, offering suggestions along the way too, Paper Rater will help you with vocabulary, word choices, passive voice, and more. It uses AI (artificial intelligence) to help check any writing you submit and it can help improve your writing and your writing skills.

Look what it’s done for me! <cough, cough>

You can choose to use or ignore any suggestions Paper Rater gives you. You can use the basic Paper Rater service for free, and you, as we mentioned earlier, you don’t have to sign up for anything or even surrender your email address.

This free service is one of the best free grammar and spell checkers we’ve tried (and yes, despite what you think, we’ve tried some – like Grammarly). How hard is PaperRater to use? Not hard at all. All you have to do is enter or paste the text you want to check into a form on the Paper Rater site, then select the type of writing it is (essay, short story, obituary – just kidding about obits), and click “Get Report”. You will get suggestions, corrections, and even a grade if you like. But its grading is harsh. harsher even than Mrs. McComb’s. Just a polite warning for you.

Here’s what the creators of PaperRater have to say:

“About Paper Rater

PaperRater.com is a free resource that utilizes Artificial Intelligence to help students write better. Our Paper Checker technology combines Natural Language Processing, Machine Learning, Information Retrieval, Computational Linguistics, and Data Mining to produce the most powerful automated proofreading tool available on the Internet today. PaperRater.com is used by schools and universities in over 100 countries to help students improve their writing and check for plagiarism. It has been our mission to offer tools that are both powerful and accessible to users regardless of income.

As part of the development process, we put together a team of computational linguists and subject matter experts to develop a core Natural Language Processing (NLP) engine using statistical and rules-based NLP to extract language features from essays and robustly translate that into statistical models. The end product is a state-of-the-art system combining Automated Grammatical Error Detection, Automated Essay Scoring, Automated Proofreading, and plagiarism detection.

What makes us different?
We’ve tried out similar websites and found them to be out of touch with most writers’ needs. We found false-positive rates as high as 50% on grammar detection. As the Hippocratic Oath encourages medical doctors to “first do no harm”, we wanted to create tools that do not muddy the waters in the process of assisting with the craft of writing. These same websites require hefty payments for the use of their services, while our goal has always been to provide tools that are universally accessible. By ‘accessible’, we mean that our tools are free and not hidden behind signups, logins, and trial offers.

Plagiarism checker
In addition to our free online grammar check, we offer a free plagiarism detector that utilizes the massive indexes of the major search engines.

Vocabulary Builder
Besides our flagship product, we also offer a premiere Vocabulary Builder tool designed to help students learn proper usage of more sophisticated words. Learning a new word with just a definition was always a frustrating experience when growing up, so we solve this problem by integrating example sentences to show the correct usage of each word in a real context…”

Be forewarned if you consider yourself a good writer. Paper Rater is a tough grader. I just checked a few of my essays and the best grade I got was a B. But I don’t feel bad, I checked a random 300-word excerpt from “To Kill a Mockingbird” (Harper Lee) and a 400-word excerpt from Tom Sawyer (Mark Twain) and both got a grade of “C”.  Paper Rater even gave its own intro a grade of B minus. It’s a tough grader like Mrs. McComb. 

Don’t forget to check out the other features of their website like the Plagiarism checker (feel free to check me out!) and the Vocabulary Builder (you too can be a sesquipedalian!). So… if you’re looking for a harsh critique of your writing skills and/or a good spelling and grammar checker you will not find a better free one than Paper Rater. Go to http://www.paperrater.com/ and give it a try.

We’ll try it again real soon. Maybe it will give me a better grade than B next time, but I doubt it. Hope springs anew!

In case you’re wondering, and by now you’re probably not even reading this, Paper Rater gave me the same grade for this bit of writing as it gave to Mark Twain and Haper Lee… a  “C”. 

Paper Rater is now an official Cloudeight Site Pick! 

Where Have All the Angels Gone?

Where have all the angels gone? Have they all gone away?  They flew away when the selfishness and shallowness rose in clouds and blocked the last feeble tendrils of sunlight that once shone on me. Now all my "everydays" have turned into discordant dirges defining the darkness and only demons and devils dance to the music.

Where have all the angels gone?

Musing now…

I can barely remember when the angels flew near and watched over me and I lived blessed by their love. I can vaguely remember the beautiful silver glint of the sun’s reflection off sweet golden angel wings. It was a beautiful and fortunate time in my life yet I was blithe and cavalier and I took those lovely angelic halcyon days for granted. I deserved them after all — I had them coming to me.

In my life, the angels have come to visit me quite a few times but I never appreciated them when they were here. I took them as my due — I was special and I deserved the blessings of life.

But then I realize it’s not just my life the angels have abandoned; there’s a dearth of angels...

Cloudeight Direct Computer Care Repair Keys
BUY ONE and GET ONE FREE!

From now through Mother's Day, you can buy one Cloudeight Direct Computer Care Repair Key at the regular price or $50  - and we'll give you one free. You can give the second key to Mom or anyone you like - or keep it for yourself. Don't miss out. Cloudeight Direct Computer Care Repair Keys never expire - they are good until you use them! Offer valid through Monday, May 15, 2023 only.

Get more information and/or take advantage of this special offer by visiting this page.

What does "deepfake" mean?

According to Merriam-Webster..."Deepfake refers to an image or recording that has been convincingly altered and manipulated to misrepresent someone as doing or saying something that was not actually done or said."

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Reg Organizer: Reg Organizer is the Swiss Army Knife of Windows tools. It's far more than just a registry optimizer and cleaner... it's a Windows all-in-one toolkit. Reg Organizer helps you keep your computer in tip-top shape and helps you solve annoying Windows problems. Reg Organizer works great with Windows 10 and Windows 11! Get more information about Reg Organizer (and get our special discount prices) here.

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We hope you have enjoyed this issue of Cloudeight InfoAve Weekly. Thanks so much for your support and for being an InfoAve Weekly subscriber.

Have a great Mother's Day weekend... be safe!

Darcy and TC
Cloudeight InfoAve Weekly - Issue #1022
Volume 20 Number 28
May 12, 2023 

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