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  • What is Malware?

    Malware is a type of software that is designed to harm a computer system. It can steal your personal information, damage your files, or even take control of your computer. There are many different types of malware, but some of the most common include:

    • Viruses: Viruses are programs that can copy themselves and spread to other computers. They can often be spread through email attachments, file-sharing sites, or infected websites.
    • Worms: Worms are self-replicating programs that can spread through computer networks. They can often cause damage by flooding networks with traffic or by stealing data.
    • Spyware: Spyware is software that is designed to collect information about your computer activities. This information can then be used to track your browsing habits, steal your passwords, or even sell your personal information to third parties.
    • Ransomware: Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts your files and demands a ransom payment in order to decrypt them. If you don’t pay the ransom, you may lose your files permanently.

    How to Avoid Malware

    There are a number of things you can do to avoid malware:

    • Keep your software up to date. Software updates often include security patches that can help protect your computer from malware.
    • Be careful what you click on. Don’t open emails from unknown senders, and don’t click on links in emails or on websites unless you’re sure they’re safe.
    • Use a firewall and antivirus software. A firewall can help protect your computer from unauthorized access, and antivirus software can scan your computer for malware and remove it if it finds any.
    • Be smart about what you download. Only download files from trusted sources, and be sure to scan them with antivirus software before opening them.
    • Back up your files regularly. This way, if you do get infected with malware, you won’t lose all of your data.

    By following these tips, you can help protect your computer from malware. But it’s important to remember that no security measure is perfect. So, if you do think your computer has been infected with malware, it’s important to take action immediately. Contact your antivirus software vendor or a computer security professional for help.

    Here are some additional tips to help you avoid malware:

    • Use a strong password for your computer and your email account.
    • Don’t share your passwords with anyone.
    • Be careful what information you share online.
    • Only use Wi-Fi networks that you trust.
    • Be careful about what apps you install on your phone or tablet.

    By following these tips, you can help keep your computer and your personal information safe from malware.

  • How Busybeetech Can Help Housing Associations Improve Conditions for Existing Tenants

    Busybeetech is a company that provides affordable devices and training to housing associations. This can help housing associations improve conditions for existing tenants in a number of ways.

    Improved Communication

    One way that Busybeetech can help housing associations improve conditions for existing tenants is by improving communication. With affordable devices, tenants can stay connected with their housing association, even if they do not have a computer or smartphone. This can help tenants to stay informed about important updates, such as rent increases or maintenance work.

    Increased Access to Services

    Busybeetech can also help housing associations increase access to services for existing tenants. For example, tenants can use affordable devices to access online forms, applications, and resources. This can help tenants to access the services they need, without having to travel to a physical location.

    Enhanced Learning Opportunities

    In addition, Busybeetech can help housing associations enhance learning opportunities for existing tenants. For example, tenants can use affordable devices to access online courses, tutorials, and other educational resources. This can help tenants to improve their skills and knowledge, which can lead to better employment opportunities and a higher quality of life.

    Improved Well-Being

    Finally, Busybeetech can help housing associations improve the well-being of existing tenants. For example, tenants can use affordable devices to connect with friends and family, access entertainment, and stay informed about current events. This can help tenants to feel more connected, engaged, and supported, which can lead to improved mental and physical health.

    Conclusion

    Busybeetech is a valuable resource for housing associations that are looking to improve conditions for existing tenants. By providing affordable devices and training, Busybeetech can help housing associations to improve communication, access to services, learning opportunities, and well-being.

  • Digital Poverty in the UK

    As every aspect of life – from job seeking to health care – moves online, digital connectivity is a daily necessity, not a luxury. Against the backdrop of the UK’s worst cost of living crisis in 40 years, discussions about fuel and food poverty are now joined by a new concern with what has become known as digital poverty – challenges affording the cost of online connectivity and devices. Using data from a survey of low-income households, this Policy Briefing explores the extent of digital poverty in the UK and shows how it can exacerbate other forms of poverty among the most disadvantaged households. It also shows how current fixes, including social tariffs aimed at the poorest in society, are not effectively addressing this critical issue. […]

  • Free Computer Courses in Manchester

    Manchester is a city with a thriving tech scene, and there are many opportunities to learn the basics of computer science and IT for free. Here are a few of the options available:

    • The Manchester College offers a variety of free Work and Skills courses, including one on Digital Skills. This course covers the basics of using computers, the internet, and software applications. Opens in a new window The Manchester College Manchester College in Manchester
    • Manchester Adult Education also offers a free Digital Skills course. This course is designed for people with no or low digital skills, and it covers topics such as using the internet, creating documents, and using email. Opens in a new window Twitter Manchester Adult Education in Manchester
    • Reed is a recruitment agency that offers a number of free IT training courses, including one on Understanding Coding. This course is designed to teach you the basics of coding, and it includes both online and classroom-based learning. Opens in a new window Careers at Reed Reed in Manchester
    • Manchester City Council offers a number of free adult education courses, including some on computer skills. These courses are open to people of all ages and abilities, and they are held at a variety of locations across the city. Opens in a new window Wikipedia Manchester City Council in Manchester

    In addition to these free courses, there are also a number of online resources that can teach you the basics of computer science. Some of these resources include:

    If you are interested in learning more about computer science, there are many resources available to you in Manchester. Whether you prefer to learn in a classroom setting or online, there is sure to be a course that is right for you.

    Here are some additional tips for finding free computer courses in Manchester:

    • Check with your local library. Many libraries offer free computer classes and workshops.
    • Search for online courses. There are many websites that offer free online computer courses, such as Coursera and edX.
    • Contact local businesses and organizations. Some businesses and organizations offer free computer training to their employees or members.
    • Ask your friends and family. They may know of free computer courses that are available in the area.

    With a little effort, you can find a free computer course that will help you learn the basics of computer science. These courses can give you the skills you need to get a job in the tech industry, or simply help you use computers more effectively in your everyday life.

  • How to Use Google Docs

    Google Docs is a free, web-based word processing application that allows you to create and edit documents online. It is part of the Google Workspace suite of productivity tools, and it is available to anyone with a Google account.

    Google Docs is a powerful tool that can be used for a variety of purposes, including:

    • Creating and editing documents
    • Collaborating with others on documents
    • Storing documents online
    • Sharing documents with others
    • Accessing documents from anywhere

    To use Google Docs, you first need to create a Google account. Once you have a Google account, you can access Google Docs by going to the Google Docs website.

    When you open Google Docs, you will be presented with a blank document. You can start typing to create your document. As you type, your document will be saved automatically.

    Google Docs offers a variety of features that allow you to format your document, including:

    • Font size and style
    • Text alignment
    • Indentation
    • Headers and footers
    • Lists
    • Tables
    • Images
    • Links

    You can also use Google Docs to collaborate with others on a document. When you share a document with others, they will be able to view and edit the document in real time.

    Google Docs is a powerful and versatile tool that can be used for a variety of purposes. It is a great option for anyone who needs to create, edit, and collaborate on documents online.

    Here are some additional tips for using Google Docs:

    • Use keyboard shortcuts to save time. For example, you can press Ctrl+S to save your document, or Ctrl+Z to undo your last action.
    • Use the search bar to find specific text in your document.
    • Use the spell checker to check for errors in your document.
    • Use the preview pane to see how your document will look when it is printed.
    • Use the revision history to track changes that have been made to your document.
    • Use the comments feature to collaborate with others on your document.

    I hope this article has been helpful. If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask.

  • The Most Useful Keyboard Shortcuts

    Keyboard shortcuts can save you a lot of time and effort when you’re using your computer. By learning a few simple shortcuts, you can be more productive and efficient.

    Here are some of the most useful keyboard shortcuts:

    • Ctrl+C and Ctrl+V to copy and paste text.
    • Ctrl+X to cut text.
    • Ctrl+Z to undo an action.
    • Ctrl+Y to redo an action.
    • Alt+Tab to switch between open windows.
    • Windows logo key+Tab to view all open windows.
    • Ctrl+F to open the Find field.
    • Ctrl+S to save a file.
    • Print Screen to take a screenshot.
    • Alt+F4 to close a window.

    These are just a few of the many keyboard shortcuts that are available. There are shortcuts for almost every task that you can do on your computer.

    To find out more about keyboard shortcuts, you can search online or consult your computer’s documentation. You can also create your own keyboard shortcuts by going to Settings > Ease of Access > Keyboard > Advanced keyboard settings.

    Here are some additional tips for using keyboard shortcuts:

    • Learn the shortcuts that you use the most often.
    • Group shortcuts together based on the tasks that you perform.
    • Use a keyboard shortcut reference sheet to help you remember the shortcuts.
    • Practice using keyboard shortcuts until you become comfortable with them.

    By following these tips, you can learn to use keyboard shortcuts effectively and save yourself a lot of time and effort.

    Here are some additional keyboard shortcuts that you may find useful:

    • Ctrl+A to select all text.
    • Ctrl+Home to move the cursor to the beginning of a document.
    • Ctrl+End to move the cursor to the end of a document.
    • Page Up to move up one page.
    • Page Down to move down one page.
    • Shift+Tab to move the cursor backward through options.
    • Tab to move the cursor forward through options.
    • Esc to cancel an action.

    I hope this article has helped you learn some useful keyboard shortcuts. By using keyboard shortcuts, you can be more productive and efficient when you’re using your computer.

  • How Improved Academic Performance Comes From Digital Inclusion

    In today’s world, digital technology is essential for students to succeed in school and beyond. Digital technology can be used to enhance learning in a number of ways, including:

    • Making learning more engaging: Digital technology can be used to create interactive and engaging learning experiences. For example, students can use digital tools to create presentations, collaborate on projects, and explore virtual worlds.
    • Providing access to a wider range of resources: Digital technology can provide students with access to a wider range of resources than would otherwise be possible. For example, students can use digital tools to access online textbooks, research papers, and other educational materials.
    • Personalizing learning: Digital technology can be used to personalize learning for each student. For example, students can use digital tools to take practice quizzes, get personalized feedback, and track their progress.

    As a result of these benefits, digital inclusion has been shown to lead to improved academic performance. For example, a study by the Pew Research Center found that students who have access to computers and the internet at home are more likely to do well in school than students who do not have access to these resources.

    In addition to improved academic performance, digital inclusion has also been shown to have a number of other benefits for students, including:

    • Increased motivation: Digital technology can help students stay motivated and engaged in their learning.
    • Improved problem-solving skills: Digital technology can help students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
    • Enhanced creativity: Digital technology can help students express their creativity and develop new ideas.

    Overall, digital inclusion is a valuable tool that can help students succeed in school and beyond. By providing access to digital technology and teaching students how to use it effectively, we can help all students reach their full potential.

  • Computer Support for Free in Manchester

    If you’re in Manchester and you need help with your computer, there are a number of places where you can get free support. Here are a few options:

    • Manchester Libraries: Many Manchester libraries offer free computer classes and workshops. You can also get help with basic computer problems, such as setting up a new email account or connecting to the internet. Opens in a new window manchesterlibrariesshop.co.uk Manchester Libraries logo
    • Manchester Community Central: Manchester Community Central offers free telephone support for people who need help with their computers. They also offer a range of digital skills courses, including courses on how to use social media, how to create a website, and how to protect your computer from malware. Opens in a new window manchestercommunitycentral.org Manchester Community Central logo
    • The Greater Manchester Technology Fund: The Greater Manchester Technology Fund offers grants to help people who need help with the cost of computer repairs or upgrades. They also offer free workshops on how to use computers and the internet. Opens in a new window Greater Manchester Combined Authority Greater Manchester Technology Fund logo
    • Tech for Good Live: Tech for Good Live is a volunteer-led organization that offers free computer support to people in need. They also offer a range of digital skills courses, including courses on how to use Microsoft Office, how to create a resume, and how to apply for jobs online. Opens in a new window Tech for Good Live Tech for Good Live logo

    In addition to these free options, there are also a number of businesses in Manchester that offer affordable computer repair services. You can find a list of these businesses by searching online or by asking your friends and family for recommendations.

    If you’re having trouble with your computer, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. There are a number of resources available to you, including free computer classes and workshops, free telephone support, and affordable computer repair services.

    Here are some additional tips for finding free computer support in Manchester:

    • Ask your friends, family, and neighbors for recommendations.
    • Search online for “free computer support in Manchester.”
    • Contact your local library or community center.
    • Check with your local government to see if they offer any free computer support programs.

    By following these tips, you should be able to find free computer support in Manchester that meets your needs.

  • Financial Help in Manchester

    If you are struggling financially in Manchester, there are a number of resources available to help you. These include:

    • Government benefits: You may be eligible for government benefits such as Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, or Council Tax Reduction. You can apply for these benefits online or by calling the Department for Work and Pensions.
    • Charities and voluntary organizations: There are many charities and voluntary organizations in Manchester that can provide financial assistance. These organizations may offer grants, loans, or other forms of help. You can find a list of charities and voluntary organizations in Manchester by searching online or by contacting your local council.
    • Council support: Your local council may also be able to provide financial assistance. This could include help with paying your rent, council tax, or energy bills. You can contact your local council to find out more about the support that is available.
    • Food banks: If you are struggling to afford food, you may be able to get help from a food bank. Food banks are charities that provide free food to people in need. You can find a list of food banks in Manchester by searching online or by contacting your local council.

    In addition to these resources, there are a number of other things you can do to help improve your financial situation. These include:

    • Create a budget: This will help you track your income and expenses so that you can see where your money is going.
    • Cut your expenses: There are a number of ways to cut your expenses, such as cooking at home more often, canceling unused subscriptions, and negotiating your bills.
    • Increase your income: If you are able to increase your income, this will help you to improve your financial situation. You could do this by getting a part-time job, starting a side hustle, or asking for a raise at work.

    If you are struggling financially, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. There are a number of resources available to you, and you don’t have to go through this alone.

    Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:

    • Manchester City Council’s website on financial help: https://www.manchester.gov.uk/info/200008/benefits_and_support
    • The Trussell Trust’s website on food banks: https://www.trusselltrust.org/
    • Citizens Advice Manchester’s website: https://www.citizensadvicemanchester.org.uk/

  • How to Provide Access to Digital Technology

    In today’s world, digital technology is essential for students to succeed in school and beyond. However, not all students have equal access to digital technology. This can create a number of challenges, including lower grades, decreased academic achievement, and a lack of opportunities to learn new skills.

    There are a number of ways to provide access to digital technology for students who do not have it at home. These include:

    • Schools can provide access to digital technology: Schools can provide computers and internet access in the classroom, or provide laptops or tablets for students to take home.
    • Libraries can provide access to digital technology: Libraries often have computers and internet access, as well as digital resources such as ebooks, audiobooks, and movies.
    • Community centers can provide access to digital technology: Community centers often have computers and internet access, as well as digital resources such as ebooks, audiobooks, and movies.
    • Non-profit organizations can provide access to digital technology: There are a number of non-profit organizations that provide access to digital technology for students. These organizations often have computers and internet access, as well as digital resources such as ebooks, audiobooks, and movies.

    In addition to providing access to digital technology, it is important to teach students how to use it effectively. This includes teaching them how to use specific software programs, how to find information online, and how to create digital content. It is also important to teach students about safety and security online. This includes teaching them about cyberbullying, online predators, and other online risks.

    By providing access to digital technology and teaching students how to use it effectively, we can help all students be digitally included and succeed in school and beyond.