1. Grandparent Scams: Scammers may call or message pretending to be a grandchild in urgent need of money. They may claim to be in trouble, like being in an accident or needing money to return home. Always verify their identity by contacting family members directly before sending any money.
2. Fake Charity Solicitations: Scammers often create fake charities during the holiday season to exploit your generosity. Be cautious when receiving unsolicited donation requests. Research the charity online and ensure it’s legitimate before making any contributions.
3. Phishing Emails with Holiday Deals: During the holidays, scammers send out phishing emails disguised as great shopping deals or festive discounts. These emails may include links to fraudulent websites designed to steal personal information. Always double-check the sender’s email address and avoid clicking on suspicious links.
4. Online Shopping Scams: Scammers use fake websites or deals that seem too good to be true to steal your credit card information. Before purchasing from an unfamiliar site, look for secure payment methods, check reviews, and ensure the website has “https” in the URL.
5. Tech Support Scams: Scammers may call or email claiming your computer has issues and offering to fix it for a fee. They may ask for remote access to your device or personal details. Remember, legitimate tech companies won’t reach out to you unsolicited.
6. Romance Scams: Loneliness during the holidays makes some individuals vulnerable to online romance scams. Scammers create fake profiles on dating websites or social media platforms, pretending to form a romantic connection, only to later ask for money. Always be cautious when sharing personal information with someone you’ve just met online.

By staying informed and cautious, you can protect yourself from these scams. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, take time to verify the information before acting. Enjoy the holiday season safely by keeping your personal information and finances secure.

The post Online Scam Detection Tips for Bedford Residents During the Christmas Season first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post Online Scam Detection Tips for Bedford Residents During the Christmas Season appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

1. Be Careful What You Share: Before posting photos or updates about your Thanksgiving plans, think about what information you’re sharing. Publicly revealing that you’re away from home can make you a target for burglars. Consider limiting what you share about your location and schedule, and use privacy settings to control who sees your posts.
2. Adjust Privacy Settings: Take a few moments to review your social media privacy settings. Most platforms allow you to restrict who can see your posts, send you messages, or add comments. Make sure only trusted friends and family can view your posts, and consider using features that let you approve comments before they appear.
3. Beware of Scams: Scammers often use holidays to target users with fake offers or phishing attempts. Be cautious when receiving unsolicited messages or friend requests from people you don’t know. Never click on links or provide personal information unless you’re sure the request is legitimate.
4. Limit Sharing of Personal Information: Avoid posting sensitive details such as your home address, phone number, or financial information. Even seemingly innocent information can be used by scammers to access your accounts or steal your identity.

By following these simple tips, you can enjoy sharing your Thanksgiving moments on social media while keeping your privacy and security intact. Stay cautious and celebrate safely online!

The post Sharing Safely on Social Media This Thanksgiving first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post Sharing Safely on Social Media This Thanksgiving appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

1. Be Cautious of Unsolicited Emails and Calls: During Thanksgiving, you may receive unsolicited emails, phone calls, or text messages offering holiday deals, discounts, or fake charitable donations. Scammers often pose as well-known companies or charities. Always verify the legitimacy of the offer before responding or making any purchases.
2. Watch Out for Fake Charity Scams: The holiday season is a time for giving, but be cautious when donating to unfamiliar organizations. Scammers often create fake charities asking for donations. Before donating, research the charity online or contact them directly to verify their authenticity.
3. Avoid Clicking on Suspicious Links: Be careful when clicking on links in emails or text messages, especially if the message creates a sense of urgency. Scammers often use fake holiday offers or prize notifications to steal personal information or install malware. Instead of clicking on links, visit the website directly by typing the URL into your browser.
4. Use Secure Payment Methods: If shopping online for Thanksgiving deals, ensure that the website is secure by looking for “https” in the web address and a padlock icon. Always use secure payment methods, like credit cards or trusted payment systems, which offer fraud protection.
5. Trust Your Instincts: If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your gut and don’t rush into making decisions. Take your time to verify the authenticity of any offers, especially those that seem too perfect.

By staying alert and following these tips, you can enjoy a safe and scam-free Thanksgiving while protecting your personal information and finances.

The post Scam Prevention Tips for Thanksgiving in Bedford, and Beyond first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post Scam Prevention Tips for Thanksgiving in Bedford, and Beyond appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

1. Create Folders and Labels: Start by creating folders or labels to categorize your emails. Common categories might include family, friends, medical appointments, community events, and important documents. This allows you to sort emails by topic, making it easier to find what you need.
2. Use the Archive Feature: Instead of letting old emails clutter your inbox, utilize the archive feature. Archiving removes emails from your inbox but keeps them accessible if you need to refer to them later. This helps maintain a clean inbox without permanently deleting important information.
3. Set Up Filters: Many email services allow you to create filters that automatically sort incoming emails based on specific criteria, such as the sender or subject line. For example, you could set up a filter to automatically move all newsletters from your favorite hobbies or community groups into designated folders.
4. Unsubscribe from Unwanted Newsletters: Take a moment to unsubscribe from newsletters or promotional emails that no longer interest you. Common recurring emails that might clutter your inbox include promotional offers from stores or newsletters from websites you no longer visit. This reduces the number of incoming emails, making it easier to focus on what matters.
5. Schedule Regular Maintenance: Set aside time each week to review your inbox. Delete unnecessary emails, respond to important ones, and adjust your folder organization as needed. Regular maintenance prevents your inbox from becoming overwhelming.

By implementing these tips, you can create a more organized email inbox that enhances your communication and reduces stress. A tidy inbox not only makes it easier to find important messages but also contributes to a more enjoyable digital experience.

The post Tips for Organizing Your Email Inbox first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post Tips for Organizing Your Email Inbox appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

1. Be Wary of Unsolicited Communications: If you receive unexpected emails, texts, or calls asking for personal information, exercise caution. Legitimate organizations rarely request sensitive information this way. Always verify the source before responding.
2. Check for Red Flags: Scammers often create a sense of urgency or use alarming language to prompt quick action. Phrases like “immediate action required” or “your account will be suspended” are common tactics. Take a moment to assess the situation calmly.
3. Examine URLs and Email Addresses: Hover over links to view the actual URL before clicking. Look for misspellings or unusual domain names, which can indicate a fake site. Similarly, check email addresses carefully; minor variations from a legitimate address can signal a scam.
4. Use Security Software: Install reputable antivirus and anti-malware software on your devices. These programs can help detect and block malicious sites and threats, adding an extra layer of protection.
5. Educate Yourself: Stay informed about common scams by reading articles or watching educational videos. Awareness of the latest tactics can empower you to recognize and avoid scams.
6. Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off or too good to be true, trust your gut. It’s better to err on the side of caution than to risk falling victim to a scam.

By following these tips, you can enhance your ability to detect online scams and protect your personal information.

The post Online Scam Detection Tips for Bedford Residents first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post Online Scam Detection Tips for Bedford Residents appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

1. Increase Text Size: Most devices allow you to adjust the text size. On computers, this can typically be done in the settings under “Display” or “Accessibility.” On tablets and smartphones, go to the display settings and look for options to change the font size or zoom settings. Increasing text size makes reading much easier.
2. Adjust Brightness and Contrast: Ensure that your screen brightness is set to a comfortable level to reduce eye strain. You can find brightness settings in the display menu. For better contrast, consider using a light background with dark text or vice versa, depending on your preference.
3. Enable Night Mode: Many devices offer a night mode feature that reduces blue light exposure by changing the screen’s color temperature to warmer tones. This feature can make it more comfortable to view the screen, especially in low-light conditions.
4. Change Screen Resolution: Adjusting the screen resolution can also enhance clarity. Higher resolutions provide more detail, but it’s essential to find a balance that works best for you.
5. Use High-Contrast Themes: Many operating systems allow you to select high-contrast themes that make text and images stand out more prominently against the background.

By making these adjustments, users can create a more comfortable and accessible digital environment that reduces eye strain and enhances overall usability.

The post Optimizing Display Settings for Better Viewing first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post Optimizing Display Settings for Better Viewing appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

BEDFORD, OH — Dive into the exciting world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) with our engaging and informative free class featuring ChatGPT, developed by OpenAI. This workshop is perfect for anyone interested in discovering how AI technology can simplify and enhance everyday life.

What to Expect:

• Understanding ChatGPT: Learn what ChatGPT is and the basics of how it works.
• Live Demonstrations: Experience firsthand how ChatGPT can effortlessly compile information, craft professional resumes, and tackle complex tasks—demonstrating its potential to make daily activities easier.
• Boost Your Efficiency and Creativity: Uncover how AI can amplify your creativity and streamline your tasks, turning everyday challenges into simple clicks.

Interactive Session:
Bring your smartphone, tablet, or laptop and try ChatGPT yourself during the workshop. If you don’t have a device, no worries—we have a limited number of Chromebooks available for participants to use.

Who Should Attend?
This workshop is designed for anyone eager to learn about integrating AI into their daily routines. It’s an excellent opportunity for learners, professionals, and creatives who want to stay updated with the latest technology trends and discover practical applications for AI in their lives.

Join us for a session that promises to enlighten and inspire, showing you the practical benefits of AI and how it can assist you in becoming more productive and creative. Don’t miss out on the chance to see what AI can do for you!

The post This Wednesday Join a FREE ChatGPT Class at Ellenwood in Bedford first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post This Wednesday Join a FREE ChatGPT Class at Ellenwood in Bedford appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

Dive into the exciting world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) with our engaging and informative free class featuring ChatGPT, developed by OpenAI. This workshop is perfect for anyone interested in discovering how AI technology can simplify and enhance everyday life—and it’s not too late to sign up! If you missed the last session, we’ve got you covered with another class on October 2nd at 6:30pm.

What to Expect:

• Understanding ChatGPT: Learn what ChatGPT is and the basics of how it works.
• Live Demonstrations: Experience firsthand how ChatGPT can effortlessly compile information, craft professional resumes, and tackle complex tasks—demonstrating its potential to make daily activities easier.
• Boost Your Efficiency and Creativity: Uncover how AI can amplify your creativity and streamline your tasks, turning everyday challenges into simple clicks.
• Interactive Session: Bring your smartphone, tablet, or laptop and try ChatGPT yourself during the workshop. If you don’t have a device, no worries—we have a limited number of Chromebooks available for participants to use.

Who Should Attend?
This workshop is designed for anyone eager to learn about integrating AI into their daily routines. It’s an excellent opportunity for learners, professionals, and creatives who want to stay updated with the latest technology trends and discover practical applications for AI in their lives.

Join us for a session that promises to enlighten and inspire, showing you the practical benefits of AI and how it can assist you in becoming more productive and creative.

The post It’s Not Too Late! Join a FREE ChatGPT Class at Ellenwood on October 2nd! first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post It’s Not Too Late! Join a FREE ChatGPT Class at Ellenwood on October 2nd! appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

In these scams, you may receive a text message stating that a package could not be delivered due to an address issue or that action is required to reschedule the delivery. The message often includes a link prompting you to provide personal information or payment details to resolve the issue. However, clicking on these links can lead to phishing websites designed to steal your information or install malware on your device.

To protect yourself from these scams, keep the following tips in mind:

1. Verify the Source: If you receive a text about a delivery issue, do not click on any links. Instead, visit the official USPS website or call their customer service directly using a verified number.
2. Look for Red Flags: Be wary of messages that create a sense of urgency or contain poor grammar and spelling errors. Legitimate organizations typically communicate professionally.
3. Report Suspicious Messages: If you suspect a smishing attempt, report it to the USPS and your mobile carrier. This helps authorities take action against scammers.

By staying informed and cautious, Bedford residents can protect themselves from smishing scams and ensure their personal information remains secure.

The post Beware of Smishing Scams: Delivery Alerts from USPS first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post Beware of Smishing Scams: Delivery Alerts from USPS appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

Dive into the exciting world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) with our engaging and informative free class featuring ChatGPT, developed by OpenAI. This workshop is perfect for anyone interested in discovering how AI technology can simplify and enhance everyday life.

What to Expect:

• Understanding ChatGPT: Learn what ChatGPT is and the basics of how it works.
• Live Demonstrations: Experience firsthand how ChatGPT can effortlessly compile information, craft professional resumes, and tackle complex tasks—demonstrating its potential to make daily activities easier.
• Boost Your Efficiency and Creativity: Uncover how AI can amplify your creativity and streamline your tasks, turning everyday challenges into simple clicks.

Interactive Session: Bring your smartphone, tablet, or laptop and try ChatGPT yourself during the workshop. If you don’t have a device, no worries—we have a limited number of Chromebooks available for participants to use.

Who Should Attend? This workshop is designed for anyone eager to learn about integrating AI into their daily routines. It’s an excellent opportunity for learners, professionals, and creatives who want to stay updated with the latest technology trends and discover practical applications for AI in their lives.

Join us for a session that promises to enlighten and inspire, showing you the practical benefits of AI and how it can assist you in becoming more productive and creative. Don’t miss out on the chance to see what AI can do for you!

Can’t make this session? Don’t worry! An evening session will be held on October 2nd from 6:30pm – 8:00pm.

The post This Thursday Join a FREE ChatGPT Class at Ellenwood first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post This Thursday Join a FREE ChatGPT Class at Ellenwood appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.