Computer Tips -Tech Info

Tag: general

  • Rhapsody welcomes other operating systems

    There was a time when you had to download Windows-only software to access Rhapsody (an online music service owned by real networks.) However, that has changed. It’s a move that I’m glad to see as a linux user, but just in general it makes sense that they can open it up to anyone with a web browser.

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  • More free online book resources

    A while back there was an article on Google Print alternatives. Today, Search Engine Watch has an article on a couple other options. First up is Netlibrary.com, which provides free access to a wide range of etexts. Access is not to the general public, but through partner institutions. For instance, if your public library partners with netlibrary, you can enter your library card number and log in.

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  • Barcode Scam to get $4.99 iPod

    A Colorado University student was arrested for a barcode scam after trying to buy an iPod for $4.99 (with a fake barcode) at a Colorado Target store. Apparently the scam was successful once and he came back a second time. Basically he used a barcode printing program to duplicate the barcode for a cheap item, then pasted the “new improved” barcode over the legitimate one. According to the article, he sought out female checkers that he guessed would be less likely to pay attention to the electronics at such a low price.

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  • The DMCA exemption process…

    Another entry from the “how do the good guys keep from getting their pants sued off…” files. Freedom-to-tinker has an entry on their application for a DMCA waiver. (The DMCA (among other things) makes it against the law to circumvent copy protection (or to communicate ways of circumvention)) It sounds like the exemption process is slanted towards not issuing exemptions, but they’re trying. There are some interesting notes from their application.

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  • Good introductory article on linux

    There is a Newsforge article talking about “Best Practices for the Linux home office”. They cover a lot of ground for the newcomer to linux. But some of their advice is excellent for computing in general. One is to treat your work machine like a production system (not development) the advice here is not to risk your main work machine on that game you’ve been dying to try out.

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  • Identity theft

    So, you don’t click on “phishy” links, keep your pc free from spyware, only bank at secure websites, do all the good things a cautious computer user is supposed to do to keep from having your identity stolen. Your safe right? Not entirely. I just found this in the Security Fix… Verizon Wireless Fixes leaky website.

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