KANE'S TECH TIPS:
SUNDAY 18TH FEBRUARY 2024
Welcome to another low down on all the latest Tech news, Tips and Tricks to help you keep up to date with the latest from the Tech world!
You can hear the feature On Air on a Sunday with Mark, and throughout the week.
Downloads on BBC's IPlayer Service To End
The BBC's iPlayer streaming service is to end downloads for users who watch on desktop or laptop computers.
Programmes will still be available to download on tablets and phones via the mobile iPlayer app.
Currently viewers on PCs and Macs can save programmes via the iPlayer Downloads app, but that will be closed.
The changes were "due to the low number of people using it and the cost required to keep it going" the BBC said.
Read More: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-68283165
Source: BBC News
10,000 People Given Free Sim Cards
Almost 10,000 people in need have been given a free sim card so they can access vital online services.
Gloucestershire's Rural Community Council (GRCC) said it plans to give out another 10,000, if it can get the funding.
The aim is to address the digital divide and enable people to make calls, texts and use data without charge and in turn book doctors appointments or pay their bills.
Read More: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c4n3r9drexjo
Source: BBC News
Southern Water Cyber Attack
Southern Water has warned that data belonging to 5-10% of its customers has been stolen in a cyber attack.
In an email to customers on Tuesday, the firm said personal details and financial information may have been stolen for sale on the dark web.
The company provides water services across Kent, Sussex, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.
It apologised and said it had contacted regulators and was working with cybersecurity experts.
Southern Water provides essential water services to 2.5 million customers and wastewater services to more than 4.7 million customers.
Read More: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-kent-68284475
Source: BBC News
App Of The Week
This weeks app of the week is called AppBlock.
AppBlock aims to help you control your screen time by reducing all possible distractions. Setting up the app is simple. Using just a few taps, you will be able to block apps on your phone.
Upon doing so, these apps can no longer be opened, and that also means no irritating notifications!
You can even schedule specific days or times to block certain apps.
The app is free to download on IOS and Android Devices
Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=cz.mobilesoft.appblock
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/app/appblock-block-apps-sites/id1515753232
🛡️ Security Corner 🛡️
Phishing is when attackers send scam emails (or text messages) that contain links to malicious websites.
The websites may contain malware (such as ransomware) which can sabotage systems and organisations.
Or they might be designed to trick users into revealing sensitive information (such as passwords), or transferring money.
Phishing emails can hit an organisation of any size and type. You might get caught up in a mass campaign (where emails are sent indiscriminately to millions of inboxes), or it could be the first step in a targeted attack against your company, or a specific employee.
In these targeted campaigns, the attacker uses information about your employees or company to make their messages even more persuasive and realistic. This is usually referred to as spear phishing.
You can find more guidance on Phishing emails on the National Cyber Security Centres website - www.ncsc.gov.uk
