Showing posts with label education. Show all posts
Showing posts with label education. Show all posts

Friday, 6 December 2024

IT course 28 Nov 2024 – Apps


The smaller number of attendees allowed for 1:1 help throughout so the format became more interactive than usual.

We started with everybody visiting the Ararat website.

We then had a general introduction to working on-line, with explanations and hints on e.g. icons, cookies, tabs, bookmarks, using audio input and output, etc.

We practiced using QR codes on our devices.

The main part of the time was spent on learning about and downloading a wide range of Apps = quick access to favourite websites, available from Appstore (i-phones)  or google play (android). Apps can be deleted by ‘press & hold’ the icon which will bring up an option to delete.

Examples of useful Apps:

Ask Silver – a government approved system which you can join and it will use WhatsApp to notify you of the latest scams.

Screenshot – capturing what is on the screen to enable it to be sent onwards. On android this is done by holding Off and Vol down simultaneously – the shot is saved in Gallery.

Shopping on-line – download Apps from chosen stores.

U-Switch – government-approved site for comparing and choosing utility providers.

BBC Sounds – a free App for podcasts (audio documentaries), music, live radio, on-demand programmes and audio-books. 

TV 0nline – some free e.g. BBC, ITV, and some subscription e.g. Netflix and Prime.

YouTube – free – vast range of instructional videos.

Seeing AI – aim the screen at text – it will narrate what it sees.

Health – NHS Wales online can include booking appointments, requesting repeat prescriptions, looking at your health ecord (varies with each GP centre).

Torch – built in to most phones. For android, swipe down from top of screen to find torch icon. For i-phone ask Siri or use control centre.


Another fascinating session – many thanks to Lucy and to the BT volunteers.

Sunday, 24 November 2024

Stay Safe On-line

 

IT training session, 31 October 2024 with Lucy Walsh of AbilityNet

 


Stay Safe On-line


After a quick overview of useful aspects of devices, Lucy told us about a range of on-line scams and gave pointers for dealing with them, e.g.

  • Anything official will be addressed to you by name, so check

  • Don’t click on any links

  • Family impersonation scams – ask them a question that only your family members could answer

  • Don’t allow remote access 

  • On suspected fake websites look for the s on https in the address line and the padlock sign

  • Beware fake rewards and prizes, also

  • Fake endorsements by well-known people or celebrities e.g. by Martin Lewis

  • Download and use a parking app as it is very easy for scammers to stick a false QR code onto the front of a parking meter


Specific types of scams mentioned included romance scams, pet scams and energy scams. 

People fall for scams for two main reasons:

Fear of losing out (re special offers)

Fear of problems / retribution if you don’t do what they suggest.


In summary, if someone has approached you and you find yourself with your phone / device in one hand and your credit card in the other hand, put one down and think again!

Wales Air Ambulance

At the January 2025 meeting, Whitchurch WI was delighted to present a cheque for £1,300 to Catrin of Wales Air Ambulance.