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To Search or Not to Search? The Question of Staying Safe Online

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Our daily lives have become inextricably linked with technology. Whether we’re shopping, organizing our calendars, banking, or enjoying entertainment, almost everything is available and more convenient online. And with the affordability and quality of mobile devices better than ever, almost everything we do can be done via an app or website. But by going fully digital we put ourselves at risk – think about all the sensitive data, bank details, phone numbers, addresses, even simple things we enjoy that get inputted online. 

That data can be hacked, stolen and exploited, or sometimes carelessly given away, causing financial, logistical, and even emotional problems. And this isn’t limited to individuals, large scale data breaches can affect millions of people and cause long-term damage to businesses as well.  

With all this in mind, staying safe online is paramount for peace of mind. Here are some things to take into account. 

Data Breaches

The online security industry cannot rest for a moment. Each time a new security technology is rolled out, online criminals work to target its weaknesses. We’re all vulnerable to hackers and scammers as individuals, but even huge companies have suffered major data breaches in recent years. 

In July this year, a user in a basic level hacking forum shared the personal details of more than 500 million Facebook users, complete with personal data, phone numbers, locations, birthdays, and email addresses. According to Facebook, this breach was caused by a vulnerability they had patched in 2019 but was exploited by hackers. Experts say that large-scale fraud could take place as scammers impersonate users or contact them via telephone using personal data to trick them into handing over bank details etc. 

The Facebook breach wasn’t even the biggest in history. In 2013, Yahoo reported that 3 billion accounts had been compromised. In 2019, Chinese shopping giant Alibaba was hacked, resulting in 1.1 billion users having their data scraped. And in June this year, networking site LinkedIn reported that 700 million accounts had been hacked. 

Why Is Data Protection So Important?

Most people think that a breach of online privacy means that someone knows what you’re doing. The reality is that someone knows who you are, where you are, and what you’re doing. Personal data that has been inputted in a breached secure environment can be analyzed and used for a variety of things – it has high value and can be stolen, collected, and sold on. 

Of course, a lot of data collection happens legally – all those terms and conditions you never read? These give apps and websites permission to use your data. How can illegal data collection affect you? Well, sensitive data such as bank or credit card details is a pretty obvious one – a scammer can access your money. Another scam is to collect telephone numbers, then the victim is contacted and made to give over their financial details – the scammers can build trust with the personal information they’ve collected. Less obvious is the collection of medical records – this will affect your targeted ads and other online content. The main thing is this: your personal data is YOURS. No one should be able to access that illegally and cause you problems or annoyance, big or large. But maybe have a skim through the T’s and C’s next time. 

Keeping Yourself Safe Online

There are some great security solutions available for companies and families/individuals such as McAfee, Norton, and Kaspersky – if you use these, great, but make sure you update every time you get the chance – they will notify you. We mentioned above the race between security and hacker, updating is the best thing you can do to keep safe. 

Aside from that, there are a number of steps you can take to protect your data. Whenever you send a payment, make sure that you see an SSL certificate – this means the transaction environment is fully encrypted, and your details can’t be stolen or stored. 

Some of the safest platforms for money transferred include platforms like PayPal and Payoneer. However, even though those are safe to use, there are scammers who would send fake emails from those platforms pretending to be part of their teams, so make sure to verify if the email is real before you take action required in them. 

What is more, if you plan on using any other site that offers depositing money or withdrawing money, make sure the site is legit. For instance, online casinos are another example of sites where you can exchange money. But not all casinos are created equal since some exist only to scam people and steal personal information. You must look for signs that the casino site is legit. To do this, you can consult thorough online gambling guides that give an in-depth analysis of the issue. Portals like casinos.co.za, for example, besides the transparency about casino licenses and regulations and privacy concerns, also emphasize the importance of fast withdrawal options at online casinos. The best options they have on their list are the ones that ensure 100% data safety like standalone money transfer services or even bitcoin payments. This will help you make good decisions about your choices and help you stay safe. And all legit casinos will always improve their sites and their security with the aim to keep the players safe and enable them safe and successful play. 

The same goes for any other online games, especially if those are mobile apps with in-app purchases. Always look for privacy policies and laws and regulations, and the payment options in such games. Just like you won’t give your personal information to anyone face-to-face, don’t do it online, either. 

Be warned  – just like scammers send phishing emails posing as PayPal to try to get customers to follow a link and input their password on a fake site, they do the same thing from various banks. A good practice is to never ever log in to any bank, payment site, or anything sensitive through a link someone sends you – always navigate to the URL yourself. And one last, obvious thing. Strong passwords – use unique passwords for all applications – and there are password manager apps available to help you. 

Our world is dominated by electronic interaction, which is more convenient than ever. But with this convenience comes risk – but this can be minimized by safe practices and awareness. 

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What Should You Think about Before Custom Enterprise Software Development?

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The majority of companies see process improvements after adopting an ERP system, as stated in the 2018 Panorama Consulting ERP report. However, there are unique challenges associated with creating enterprise-level software. These include numerous judgment points and consideration of a wide variety of variables.

Putting together a bespoke ERP system is a great decision for companies.

To start off, what exactly is it that ERP does? As for my company, why do we require one?

Custom enterprise software development services eliminate human error, automate mundane jobs, speeds up business processes, generate usable insights from analytics, and more. Enterprise resource planning (ERP) software can prevent duplicate data, ineffective processes, and a lack of real-time company insight.

Thus, no two firms can use the same operational processes. Custom creation gives the company an edge over competitors. Your company’s custom ERP system is unique. This puts you ahead of the competitors.

During ERP Customization, What Should be Remembered?

The foregoing statistics indicate that ineffective ERP systems cost businesses millions of dollars and thousands of productive hours annually.

Some people believe that simply having the thought of ERP development for a company is enough. The ERP system creation firm will take care of everything else. Alright, I’m sad to be the one to snap you out of your daydream. Keeping the following in mind before setting out on your trip is essential:

1. Learn the Company’s Mission and Vision

You don’t need everything. Businesses prefer custom software solutions because they are tailored to each firm and contain only the required features. Remember!

Remember why you’re customizing ERP. Think about your company’s current issues without an ERP and how business software development could aid.

Track the organization’s finances. This will help handle functional program needs (discussed below). Keep the essentials and change the rest. It may lower costs.

If a firm misjudges its future needs, ERP modifications will cost more time and money.

2. Specifications for Operational Software

What your ERP system “needs.” Remember that your ERP must automate many company processes and provide thorough information analysis and reporting when choosing “must-have” functions.

Note that mobile users visit your site. In today’s BYOD society, restricting ERP access to desktop and mobile devices is inefficient. Build a secure mobile-friendly business resource planning system.

Keep a feature outline and user flow map handy. Provide as much information as feasible to help the ERP software creation firm meet your goals and estimate time and cost.

3. Work with Reliable People

Let’s start with the ERP adoption rate across industries.

The caliber of your custom software development firm determines its success or failure. Hiring software experts takes time and energy.

Find a software company that specializes in custom ERP systems and understands the basics. They must gather, assess, and contribute ideas to requirements.

Thus, the business software development firm knows more about ERP creation than you. Their words and actions must show this. They must also converse well and use technology to reduce the time difference (If you outsource software development).

They should also be upfront about their plan and pledge to finishing on time and within budget from the start. To ensure they can produce, check referrals and talk to customers.

Finally, they must feel like an important part of your team and a supporter of your successes.

4. Scalability, and the Design You Pick

Remember that the design and technology behind your ERP should place a premium on scalability, speed, and security.

5. Examination and Verification

ERP development begins once a team has been assembled to create the software and both parties have agreed upon the specifications. The work is not done once the product has been created. A custom-built ERP requires extensive testing to determine how accurately it represents your company’s actual workflows.

The lack of thorough pre-launch testing is a significant contributor to the failure of most ERP initiatives. Unwanted shocks can be avoided, and the number of defects can be drastically reduced, with early and thorough testing.

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The Top 5 Essential Parts of a Linear Actuator: A Comprehensive Guide for Engineers and DIY Enthusiasts

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Are you working on a system that requires efficient linear motion control? Understanding the various components of a linear actuator and how they work together is critical for engineers and DIY enthusiasts alike to create an effective system. Explore the top five essential components of a linear actuator and gain valuable insights into their application in various types of motorized systems.

Linear actuators are used to provide precise control of linear motion in a variety of industrial, automotive, and recreational applications. They include several interconnected components that work together to form an effective motorized system. You can see them all by following the link https://www.progressiveautomations.ca/collections/actuator-parts.

Let’s take a look at the top five essential components of a linear actuator and discuss their applications in various motorized systems. With this knowledge, you will be able to design an efficient system with precise linear motion control.

What is a Linear Actuator?

A linear actuator is a motorized system that provides precise control of linear motion. It is made up of several interconnected components, including:

  • The motor;
  • Gearbox;
  • Lead screw/lead nut assembly;
  • Limit switches;
  • Mounting brackets and accessories.

Linear actuators are used in a variety of industries for applications, such as:

  • Automated door openers;
  • Medical equipment;
  • Industrial robotics.
  • Recreational applications (e.g., RV awnings and boat hoists).

Linear actuators provide the user with precise linear motion control, making them an essential component of many motorized systems.

The Top 5 Essential Parts of a Linear Actuator

Understanding the various components that comprise a linear actuator system allows you to design an effective system for your specific needs. So, what are these top five essential parts of a linear actuator:

#1. Motor

The motor provides the power to extend and retract the rod. It comes in a variety of shapes and sizes, depending on the application. Commonly used motors for linear actuators include:

  • DC;
  • Stepper;
  • AC motors.

#2. Gearbox

The gearbox is a part of the linear actuator that reduces the speed of the motor, providing greater torque and slower travel speeds. It is an important component in ensuring that the actuator operates smoothly and safely.

#3. Lead Screw/Lead Nut Assembly

This component incorporates a lead screw and nut that are used to transfer rotational motion from the motor into linear motion, allowing for controlled movement along an axis.

#4. Limit Switches

Limit switches are used to provide safety features such as automatic stop points and overload protection, ensuring that the system does not exceed its limits or cause unwanted damage to itself or other parts of the system.

#5. Mounting Brackets and Accessories

Mounting brackets and accessories are used to attach the actuator to its base, providing a secure connection.

Application of the Parts in Different Motorized Systems

The components of a linear actuator can be applied in many different types of motorized systems:

Industrial

Linear actuators are widely used in industrial applications such as robotics, automated door openers, and medical equipment. In these applications, the motor and gearbox provide the power to move the system, while the lead screw/lead nut assembly, limit switches, and mounting brackets ensure the system moves in a controlled manner.

Automotive

Linear actuators are also used in automotive applications such as suspension systems, brakes, and clutch control. The motor and gearbox provide the force necessary to move parts of the car, while limit switches help prevent overloading or damage to other components.

Recreational

Linear actuators can be applied in recreational vehicles such as RV awnings, boat hoists, and adjustable seating systems. They provide motion along an axis, while limit switches protect other parts of the system from overloading and damage.

Medical Equipment

Motors provide the necessary power to move parts of these systems, while limit switches ensure the system does not exceed its designed limits.

The Benefits of Utilizing a Linear Actuator System

Some of the benefits of utilizing a linear actuator system include:

  • Precise Linear Motion: Linear actuators control linear motion precisely, enabling accurate positioning and repeatable performance. As a result, they are well-suited for applications such as medical equipment, industrial robotics, and recreational activities;
  • Low Maintenance: Because of their simple design and long lifespan, linear actuators require little maintenance. It helps to reduce overall operational costs while also ensuring the system’s dependability for years to come;
  • Versatility: Linear actuators come in a variety of sizes and configurations, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. They are adaptable to almost any environment and simple to install;
  • Long Lifespan: Linear actuators are built to last and can last up to ten years with proper maintenance. It makes them an excellent choice for applications requiring a long-lasting solution.

As engineers and DIY enthusiasts, you are likely aware of the importance of linear actuators. By understanding their components, you will be able to build your linear actuators with ease and confidence for your engineering or DIY projects.

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Event Management Success: 6 Tools to Better Increase Event Planning Efficiency

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There are many moving parts when you’re planning an event, and you might run into some problems, but the right tools can help you prepare better. Take a closer look at these six tools that can help you successfully stay organized and plan an event efficiently.

A mobile command center

Many events depend on technology, and keeping track of it for maximum efficiency is important. For example, many businesses use a mobile command center to help them keep track of their electronics and technology to run the event, even if they are in a different location.

Online calendar

Online calendars are a vital tool to help you plan your event, stay on track, and keep others in the loop.

Using a calendar is an excellent way to keep track of your different meetings so you know when to meet with everyone. Do your best to put all critical information on the calendar, so you won’t fall behind or lose track of crucial details.

Networking tools

As you prepare for an event, networking tools can help you make connections, stay in touch, and assign tasks more efficiently. The event will be more effortless if you have more people assisting you during the event, so ensure you find networking tools to help you remain in contact with others.

Networking can also help you extend your event and add more aspects to it, so see which ones will help you the most during the planning process.

Task tracker

Collaborating with others also means that it’s essential to know what everyone is doing and be able to keep track of all of the necessary information. For example, instead of expecting everything to work out and go correctly, you should have a task tracker to let people update others as they complete tasks.

You can also utilize the tracker to set deadlines, help keep the event on track, and ensure everything runs smoothly.

Meeting software

Similar to calendar software, meeting software is an essential tool for event management. Using meeting software helps you plan meetings, create tasks, and let others offer suggestions and collaborate.

You can even set up the software to send an announcement when you plan to meet with people with all the necessary details, so they know what to expect and when everyone can meet.

Event directory

An event management tool that some planners overlook is an event directory. Event directories can be as simple as outlining a general plan or as detailed as a complete overview of events. This type of tool is ideal for everyone involved in the event, from the planners and participants to visitors and vendors.

Even though it takes time to create a directory, you’ll make the event better for everyone involved, so put effort into it and make it as organized as possible.

Before you go

Rather than organizing events alone, you can use event management software to help you. Make sure you look at the tools available, figure out which ones will work for you and your situation, and use them.

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