I know this doesn't apply to the majority of HT folks, especially the tech-savvy, but as there are a number of PCs still running Windows 7 (and you likely know of someone who still is), it's a good reminder that Microsoft is ending security and other support for Windows 7 tomorrow, January 14th. The following is an excerpt from a page on my website <https://peoplefirst.tech/windows-7-end-of-life/> on the matter: Getting by on Windows 7 Running Windows 7 in 2020 likely means that there may be other aspects of your PC that could use a tune-up, especially when it comes to security. If you can't upgrade right away, here is a list of priorities: - Ensure you have a complete backup, ideally more than one; one of which stays offline or in the cloud, such as Backblaze <https://www.backblaze.com/cloud-backup.html#af9pup>. - Use a highly rated antivirus program. Bitdefender <https://www.bitdefender.com/solutions/internet-security.html> is a good choice for Windows 7 and up. Manually run a complete system scan. - Don't use Internet Explorer. Here's why. <https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/windows-it-pro-blog/the-perils-of-using-internet-explorer-as-your-default-browser/ba-p/331732> Chrome is fine, but Firefox offers much better privacy and tracking protection. - Keep your wireless router's firmware up to date. - Use a standard account (as opposed to an administrator account) for everyday tasks, while switching temporarily to an administrator account when needed. Make sure your administrator account has a strong password. This would be a good time to upgrade to a quality password manager <https://1password.com/> if you haven't already. - Disable or remove features you don’t need, especially Java, Adobe Flash Player, and add-ons of questionable utility. ShouldIRemoveIt <https://shouldiremoveit.com/> is a great resource. — — — *Zach Fried* *PeopleFirst Technology* <https://peoplefirst.tech/> Human-Focused Consulting By Appointment: 409 Main Street, Suite 214 Amherst, MA 01002 zach at peoplefirst.tech (413) 461-0617 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: <http://lists.hidden-tech.net/pipermail/hidden-discuss/attachments/20200113/060fbbd3/attachment.html>