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Showing posts from September, 2025

The Sneaky Email - Grandma Betty and the Tricky Message- Learning to Spot Phishing Scams

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https://youtu.be/0ANAm9D85co This first of 14 lesson focuses on the most common online threat - emails or texts trying to trick you into giving away personal information. Here's the prompt I used to create the lesson: "Create a fun and encouraging Storybook teaching guide for seniors about phishing scams. The story should follow a kind character, Grandma Betty, who nearly clicks a bad link but is saved by her memory of simple rules. Use simple language and a positive tone. The guide must clearly highlight three red flags to look for in suspicious emails/texts: urgent demands, bad spelling, and strange sender addresses." Key Lesson - How to recognize and safely ignore a phishing attempt. These stories were created using Gemini Pro and an experimental feature in Gemini called Storybook. I used ZOOM's Clips to record the story (lesson) and ScreenPal do any final editing and to upload the lesson to YouTube. You can find all of the posted lessons at: https://youtube.com/pl...

Senior Cyber Safety Briefing – September 30, 2025

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🚨ALERT – New Android Trojan “Datzbro” targets seniors via fake Facebook travel events 👉Why it matters – Researchers have discovered a mobile banking trojan aimed specifically at older adults. Attackers use AI-generated Facebook groups advertising social events for seniors to lure victims into installing a malicious app (APK) that can take over their phone and steal credentials.  📣Call to Action – Never install apps through links from social media or messages. Only download apps from official app stores. If someone pressures you to install an app from a link, stop, ask a trusted family member or tech friend, and validate the source. 🚨ALERT – Cisco patches zero-day flaw (CVE-2025-20352) actively exploited in IOS / IOS XE 👉Why it matters – This critical vulnerability in Cisco’s SNMP subsystem is being used by hackers to take over or crash devices. It affects many Cisco routers and switches.  📣Call to Action – If your network devices (home, small office, or via your pro...

Claud created Desktop Background Image(s) - Abstract & Minimalist Art

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Good for windows 10 and 11. New one daily or, whenever I remember to create it. Theme: Abstract & Minimalist Art (6) Image Description: The design balances visual interest with minimalist principles, creating a modern and calming workspace. You can right-click and save this as your desktop background! Access Claude at the following link: https://claude.ai/new   Instructions: https://youtu.be/BM1AX7SbiMc Got a special request, let me know. 

Windows 10 Extended Security Updates - Who Pays and Why?

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🛡️ Windows 10 Extended Security Updates: Who Pays and Why? 🎯 What’s Happening? Microsoft ends support for Windows 10 in October 2025. Users can get Extended Security Updates (ESU) for 3 more years. In the U.S.: ESU costs $30/year or requires Microsoft Rewards or cloud backup. In the EEA (Europe): ESU is completely free —no strings attached. ⚖️ Why the Discrepancy? Region ESU Cost Requirements Why? 🇺🇸 United States $30/year Or use Rewards or enable Backup No legal mandate 🇪🇺 EEA (Europe) Free No conditions EU Digital Markets Act (DMA) The DMA bans coercive bundling of services. Microsoft had to remove conditions like enabling Backup or using Rewards to comply. 🧠 What This Means for You Europeans benefit from strong consumer protections. Americans face paywalls or ecosystem lock-in. Advocacy matters: Consumer Reports pushed back in the U.S., but without a law like the DMA, Microsoft isn’t obligated to change. 📣 Call to Action Want f...

Windows 12 Is on Ice - Why Microsoft Hit Pause on Its Next Big OS

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This information is also available on my  YouTube Channel  at:  https://youtu.be/JFm31sMDgpM If you prefer, you can also listen to this information on  my  Podcast  at:  https://open.spotify.com/episode/0xTryx3cPQg Gc3ob2CqNXv?si=eZJf_B86Sd-AsEFPfnYbnA 🧊For years, tech circles buzzed with anticipation over a supposed successor to Windows 11—dubbed “Windows 12.” Leaks, mockups, and insider whispers painted a picture of a sleek, AI-powered operating system that would redefine the desktop experience. But in a surprising twist, Microsoft has officially shelved the idea—at least for now. 🚫No Windows 12 in 2025 - Microsoft’s Strategic Pivot In September 2025, Microsoft confirmed that the next major release will be Windows 11 version 25H2, not a new operating system. This update is slated for the second half of 2025, aligning with the end-of-life timeline for Windows 10.  It’s a clear signal - Microsoft is doubling down on Windows 11 rather than fragm...

Grok created Desktop Background Image(s) - Nature & Landscapes

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Good for windows 10 and 11. New one daily or, whenever I remember to create it. Theme: Nature & Landscapes (6) Image Description: A serene landscape at dusk, where a tranquil lake mirrors the stunning gradient of a sunset sky—think vibrant oranges, pinks, and purples blending into the deep blue of the mountains. Access Grok at the following link: https://grok.com   Instructions: https://youtu.be/BM1AX7SbiMc Got a special request, let me know. 

Shockwave Heartbeat

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https://youtu.be/ItnW_Mkn0XE A high-voltage anthem for anyone who’s done being quiet — ‘Shockwave Heartbeat’ smashes through the noise with raw guitars, a chant-ready chorus, and enough energy to light up an arena. Written and Produced with the aid of ChatGPT and Producer.ai 

09/29/2025 — Tech & Cybersecurity Updates

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🔓 Cisco issues critical zero‑day alert: active exploit on IOS / IOS XE What happened  • In late September 2025 , Cisco published a security advisory for CVE‑2025‑20352 , a critical zero‑day vulnerability in its IOS / IOS XE software’s SNMP subsystem, now being exploited in the wild. TechRadar  • The flaw allows attackers, under certain conditions, to execute arbitrary code, crash devices, or escalate privileges. TechRadar  • Cisco has released patches and urged all affected organizations to apply fixes immediately, noting there is currently no practical workaround . TechRadar Why it matters  • Many organizations use Cisco routers and switches at scale (in businesses, service providers, even government). A successful exploit could let attackers take control of network infrastructure.  • For non‑tech folks (especially seniors), this risk translates into possible internet outages, compromised data, or downstream attacks (e.g. from compromised network backbones).  • Because it...

Your Guide to a Fast, Clean PC (No Paid Apps Needed)

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This information is also available on my  YouTube Channel  at:  https://youtu.be/eefaBi-Cbp0 If you prefer, you can also listen to this information on  my  Podcast  at:  https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/norbert-gostischa/episodes/Your-Guide-to-a-Fast--Clean-PC-No-Paid-Apps-Needed-e38peri/a-ac68vqu   When it comes to keeping your computer running smoothly , you should save your money. For most people, paid PC cleaning apps are simply not worth the cost. Not only do modern versions of Windows (like 10 and 11) already have all the tools you need, but those third-party apps often create more problems than they solve. Why You Can Skip the Paid Cleaners It's tempting to use an app that promises a "one-click fix," but here's why you should pass: They Don't Beat Windows Tools - Microsoft has greatly improved its built-in maintenance features. Paying for another program to clear junk files or manage startup items is often just redundant. The Regist...

Perplexity created Desktop Background Image(s) - AI fun

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Good for windows 10 and 11. New one daily or, whenever I remember to create it. Theme: AI fun (5) Image Description: A vibrant 1920x1080 desktop wallpaper featuring a playful "AI fun" theme, blending whimsical robots, lively tech patterns, and futuristic, colorful visuals for an energetic and creative feel. Access Perplexity at the following link: https://www.perplexity.ai/ Instructions: https://youtu.be/BM1AX7SbiMc Got a special request, let me know. 

Heal This Land

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https://youtu.be/SBjt1dKRXdg A heartfelt anthem about bringing people back together. “Heal This Land” names the divisions we’re facing but points to real solutions —listening, kindness, and action. With an earthy acoustic feel that builds into a powerful chorus of hope, it’s a call for unity you can’t ignore. Written and produced in collaboration with ChatGPT and Producer.ai I have one invite left to try Producer.ai: https://www.producer.ai/invite/ECG79U First come, first serve. “Heal This Land” Verse 1 We’re shouting across the street but no one’s really heard, Trading truth for rumors, drowning in angry words. The fabric of our freedom’s tearing at the seams, But under all the noise we still share common dreams. Pre-Chorus It’s not red, it’s not blue, it’s me and you — If we don’t fix this now, who will pull us through? Chorus Heal this land, take my hand, let’s stop the bleeding now. Build bridges, not walls, start listening somehow. Hope’s not gone, we’re strong, but we must take ...

Senior Cyber Safety Briefing for September 27, 2025

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🛑 Alerts A ransomware attack disrupted airport check‑in and baggage systems in Europe via a software provider (Collins Aerospace’s systems were compromised) — travelers across multiple airports experienced delays.  There’s a newly discovered zero‑day vulnerability in Cisco firewalls / VPNs (CVE‑2025‑20333 and CVE‑2025‑20362) being actively exploited.  The U.S. Secret Service claims to have dismantled a massive network of devices capable of jamming or interfering with cellular services near NYC — included were over 100,000 SIM cards.  📖 Must-Reads AI-powered attacks rising. Security teams report increasing alarm about threat actors weaponizing AI for phishing, impersonation, and faster evasion.  Threat-sharing law may expire. A critical U.S. law enabling agencies to share cyber threat information could lapse soon, potentially weakening coordination across agencies.  Apple vs. EU over tech rules. Apple is lobbying to overturn parts of ...

Meta created Desktop Background Image(s) - Digital Art

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Good for windows 10 and 11. New one daily or, whenever I remember to create it. Theme: Digital Art (5) Image Description: The image depicts a serene and mystical landscape with a frozen lake or river in the foreground, reflecting the pink and blue hues of a twilight sky filled with stars. Mountains loom in the background, shrouded in a misty atmosphere. Trees are silhouetted on the right bank, adding to the tranquil ambiance. Access meta.ai at the following link: https://www.meta.ai/   Instructions: https://youtu.be/BM1AX7SbiMc Got a special request, let me know. 

What Exactly Is DNA Data Storage

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This information is also available on my  YouTube Channel  at:  https://youtu.be/rNjnAkr8oSw If you prefer, you can also listen to this information on  my  Podcast  at:  https://open.spotify.com/episode/4EgeB8aM3eSU711Y2ijuee?si=dhMQUc6IQrm3poIy5Tylww 🧬Turning life’s code into the ultimate hard drive. If you think cloud storage is cutting edge, imagine saving your photos and files inside DNA — yes, the same stuff that makes you, you. DNA data storage is exactly that - using the biological code of life as a medium to store digital information. It sounds like sci-fi, but it’s real science. Researchers have already stored books, movies, and even computer code inside synthetic DNA. Why - Because DNA is nature’s most efficient storage system. It can hold more information in a droplet than all the data centers on Earth combined. 🧩How Does It Work - Let’s break it down: Computers use binary code (0s and 1s). DNA uses four bases, which are like its alphabet:...

Microsoft Designer created Desktop Background Image(s) - Personal Photography

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Good for windows 10 and 11. New one daily or, whenever I remember to create it. Theme: Personal Photography (5) Today’s theme is Personal Photography — Microsoft Designer created the requested image, it doesn't offer a description. You can try it at: https://designer.microsoft.com/ Instructions: https://youtu.be/BM1AX7SbiMc Got a special request, let me know.

Senior Cyber Safety Briefing – September 26, 2025

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🚨ALERT – CISA issues emergency directive over Cisco zero‑day flaws 👉Why it matters – The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has identified two new exploited zero‑day vulnerabilities (CVE‑2025‑20333 and CVE‑2025‑20362) in Cisco ASA and Firepower devices, and mandated that federal agencies collect forensic data, mitigate compromises, and patch or disconnect old devices.  📣Call to Action – If your network uses Cisco security appliances (or your service provider does), make sure they’ve applied updates or disabled vulnerable services immediately. 🔥PRIVACY & BIG TECH – Insurance giant claims 150,000 users’ data stolen 👉Why it matters – Hackers allege they breached American Income Life (AIL), claiming exposure of names, addresses, emails, birth dates, and policy info. Leaked data now being shared publicly, increasing phishing risk and identity theft.  📣Call to Action – If you have or had an AIL policy, monitor your credit report and be skeptical ...

Rise & Secure - Your Morning Phone Safety Ritual

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This information is also available on my  YouTube Channel  at:  https://youtu.be/99I4dJIQjP8 If you prefer, you can also listen to this information on  my  Podcast  at:  https://open.spotify.com/episode/7799Lems3UjX4xS4dNhh3I?si=p7uky4n4R3mfzYWezuHeDA ☀️Most people start their day by reaching for their phone before even reaching for coffee. But here’s the kicker—if your phone isn’t secure, you might be serving hackers a hot latte of your personal life on a silver platter. Don’t panic—locking down your device in the morning takes less time than brushing your teeth (and frankly, it’ll hurt less if you forget once). Here are 5 simple, slightly funny, but absolutely serious things to do first thing in the morning to keep your smartphone safe: 1 - Update = Patch the Leaks Think of updates as duct tape for your digital life - Skip them, and you’re basically leaving the bathroom door wide open at a public pool. No one wants that. ✅Check for system and app upd...

Senior Cyber Safety Briefing – September 25, 2025

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🚨ALERT – Volvo Group discloses ransomware data breach exposing Social Security numbers 👉Why it matters – A third‑party HR software supplier (Miljödata) for Volvo was attacked, and names, SSNs, sick leave and other personnel data may have been stolen.  📣Call to Action – If you or someone you know worked for Volvo (or related vendors), monitor credit reports and be alert for identity theft or IRS tax trick fraud. 🧠MUST‑READ – U.S. federal agencies breached via GeoServer flaws 👉Why it matters – Attackers exploited a remote code execution vulnerability to infiltrate government systems—this is serious because these agencies hold citizen data, health records, benefit details, etc.  📣Call to Action – Ensure your own accounts tied to government services (IRS, Medicare, Social Security) use strong passwords + 2FA, and review recent login activity. 📈ECONOMY & SECURITY – Chinese espionage group “RedNovember” hacks U.S. defense contractors 👉Why it matters – High‑level ...

ChatGPT5 created Desktop Background Image(s) - AI Art

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Good for windows 10 and 11. New one daily or, whenever I remember to create it. Theme: AI Art (5) Today’s theme is AI Art — reimagined as a glowing futuristic cityscape, painted in a surreal, swirling style that merges technology with creativity. This design completely shifts away from humanoid figures and focuses on architecture born from imagination and algorithms. Instructions: https://youtu.be/BM1AX7SbiMc Got a special request, let me know. 

Gemini created Desktop Background - Gaming & Pop Culture

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Good for windows 10 and 11. New one daily or, whenever I remember to create it.  Theme: Gaming & Pop Culture (5) Today's desktop image - This image features a dynamic and colorful scene blending various elements of gaming and pop culture. In the foreground, a heavily armored space marine-like character stands guard next to an enchanted fantasy sword plunged into a pedestal, radiating a mystical glow. Behind them, a stylized explosion erupts, scattering various gaming icons like controllers and dice. The background is a futuristic cityscape with neon signs and distant mountains under a twilight sky, completing the epic crossover.  Instructions: https://youtu.be/BM1AX7SbiMc   Got a special request, let me know. 

Wind Chimes - When the Wind Blows, They Sing

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https://youtu.be/gqNRFRoHCB0 Discover the simple joy of wind chimes through this uplifting folk-inspired song. Every breeze carries a melody, every note brings peace — a reminder that sometimes the smallest sounds bring the biggest smiles. 🎶✨ Written and Produced in collaboration with ChatGPT and Producer.ai I have one invitation left to try Producer.ai - https://www.producer.ai/invite/ECG79U As always, first come, first serve.

Ladybug Crossing Song

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https://youtube.com/shorts/Mcl3KyKWE3Q Get ready to hop, skip, and giggle! 🐞🎶 Ladybug Crossing Song is a cheerful children’s tune full of laughter, claps, and big jumps. Perfect for sing-alongs, playtime, or just bringing smiles to little faces. Join the fun and jump along with the ladybugs, butterflies, and friends — it’s music made for happy feet and happy hearts! 💃🦋 Written and Produced in collaboration with ChatGPT and Producer.ai I have one invitation to Producer.ai available: https://www.producer.ai/invite/ECG79U First come first serve. 

3 - 5-Minute Morning Ritual to Lock Down Your Smart Home Devices

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This information is also available on my  YouTube Channel  at:  https://youtu.be/pbPTNnk-7JI If you prefer, you can also listen to this information on  my  Podcast  at:  https://open.spotify.com/episode/0beM4RyBT56ztuIRbNOSRY?si=iOxT6VaHT0ObQ2qfwkpxbg    Every morning, you brush your teeth to keep decay away. But what about your smart home? Without a quick daily checkup, your gadgets can turn into open doors for hackers. Let’s nail down a simple 5-minute ritual that locks things tight before your day even begins. #1 - Big Picture Setup - Imagine your house full of little robot roommates - one controls the lights, one watches the front door, one keeps the air comfy, and one brews your coffee. Now picture that overnight, while you were asleep, digital burglars were quietly testing your locks. Morning comes—do you greet your day, or do you first make sure your robot roommates aren’t secretly letting strangers in? That’s what we’re tackling - yo...