The Computer Tamer QLD

01/03/2026

**Scam Alert: “Optus” Discount Linked To My Microsoft Account**

I recently got a call from someone claiming to be from "Optus", offering a 50% discount on my account for the next six months. It sounded great, but I was a bit suspicious.

They had my mobile number and said they’d email details and send an SMS code to “confirm my identity”. They then read out an email address for me, but it was an old one, not linked to my actual Optus account. That was the first red flag.

Next, I received the SMS. It wasn’t an Optus confirmation at all, it was a Microsoft password reset code. That’s when it clicked. If I’d read that code out, they could have taken over my Microsoft account and potentially locked me out or used it to extort money.

I hung up immediately. No discount. No follow-up email. Just a timely reminder.

Please be vigilant. Never share verification or reset codes with anyone over the phone, not “Optus”, not “Microsoft”, not your bank. If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Always contact the company back using their official website or app.

04/12/2025

**Beware the OneDrive Shared Document Scam**

A new phishing scam is making the rounds, and it's catching people off guard. You may receive an email saying someone has shared a document with you through OneDrive. It looks legitimate, but when you open the file, a suspicious link appears asking you to sign in or view more details. **Do not click the link!**

This scam is designed to steal your personal data—login credentials, financial details, even identity information. Once a hacker gains access, they can compromise your accounts and cause serious damage.

If you get an email claiming a shared document has been sent to you, always double-check the sender. These messages often come from strangers with odd-looking email addresses—usually a random mix of names, numbers, and free domains like Hotmail or Gmail.

The safest action? **Report it as spam or phishing immediately.** Never open or interact with suspicious links. A few seconds of caution now can save you major headaches later.

Get smarter about scams like these, and you’ll protect yourself, your data, and your peace of mind. Stay alert—cybercriminals are getting clever, but so can you.

05/09/2024

I have 3 kids of differing ages and I've learnt a few things about helping them have a positive experience when it comes to device usage and social.platforms. Following is some info to help you also set up positive experiences. Let me know if you would like assistance in setting any of these up.

Online Security for Kids: Tools to Keep Your Children Safe and Healthy

In the age of smartphones, tablets, and online gaming, children have unparalleled access to technology and the internet. While this provides fantastic opportunities for learning, socializing, and entertainment, it also presents significant risks. As a parent, ensuring that your children are safe online involves more than just keeping an eye on what they’re doing—it's about providing the right tools and setting healthy boundaries.

Here’s how you can use tools like **Microsoft Family Safety**, **Google Family Link**, and **iPhone Family Sharing** to help protect your kids, limit screen time, and manage their online access.

1. Why Online Safety is Crucial

Before diving into the specifics of these tools, it’s essential to understand the risks kids face online. Children may unintentionally:

- **Access inappropriate content** (adult websites, violent or graphic media)
- **Fall prey to online predators** or scams
- **Share personal information** without understanding the consequences
- **Develop unhealthy habits** around screen time or gaming

With so much at stake, it’s crucial for parents to take an active role in managing their child’s digital experience.

2. Microsoft Family Safety: Comprehensive Management for Windows and Xbox

For families with Windows PCs and Xbox devices, **Microsoft Family Safety** is a robust solution that offers features to help manage screen time, limit access to mature content, and monitor your child's activity.

Key Features:
- **Screen Time Limits**: Set daily time limits for device usage and specific apps or games.
- **Content Filtering**: Block inappropriate websites and games based on age ratings.
- **Activity Reports**: Get detailed weekly reports on your child's online activity, including browsing history, apps used, and game time.
- **Location Sharing**: Track your child’s location in real-time for added security.

This tool is especially useful for parents who want to set up consistent rules across all Microsoft devices their children use.

3. Google Family Link: Perfect for Android and Chromebooks

If your family uses Android devices or Chromebooks, **Google Family Link** is a valuable tool for keeping kids safe and managing their online habits.

Key Features:
- **Screen Time Management**: Set daily screen time limits, bedtime restrictions, and remotely lock your child’s device when it’s time to unplug.
- **App Management**: Approve or block apps your child wants to download from the Google Play Store, ensuring they only have access to age-appropriate content.
- **Activity Tracking**: Get reports on how much time your child spends in various apps and what they’re doing online.
- **Content Filtering**: Enable safe browsing and block inappropriate websites using Google's filtering tools.
- **Device Location Tracking**: Keep track of your child's location via their smartphone or tablet.

Google Family Link gives you full control over your child’s Android device while allowing them some freedom to explore and learn.

4. Apple’s Family Sharing & Screen Time: Ideal for iPhone, iPad, and Mac Users

For Apple users, **Family Sharing** combined with **Screen Time** provides excellent control over your child’s iPhone, iPad, and Mac usage.

Key Features:
- **Screen Time Limits**: Set limits for specific apps, categories (like games or social media), or the entire device. You can also set "Downtime" when only selected apps are available.
- **App Approval**: Approve or deny app downloads from the App Store, ensuring only age-appropriate apps are accessible.
- **Content Restrictions**: Restrict access to explicit content, websites, and movies, and limit the use of specific features such as in-app purchases.
- **Activity Reports**: Get detailed insights into how much time your child spends on their devices and in which apps.
- **Family Sharing**: Easily share app purchases, iCloud storage, and media subscriptions without giving children direct access to purchasing features.

Apple’s tools are designed to integrate seamlessly across all iOS devices, giving you peace of mind while allowing your child to enjoy the digital world responsibly.

5. Best Practices for Using These Tools

While these apps provide significant control, they are most effective when combined with parental engagement. Here are a few tips for getting the most out of these tools:

- **Communicate Expectations**: Talk openly with your child about why you’re setting limits. Discuss online safety and the reasons behind screen time restrictions.
- **Set Realistic Limits**: Instead of cutting off access entirely, set reasonable limits based on your child’s age and maturity level.
- **Model Healthy Habits**: Children are more likely to follow screen time rules if they see you adhering to them as well. Make screen-free time a family event.
- **Regularly Review Settings**: As your child grows, regularly review and adjust their access and screen time rules.

6. Balancing Safety and Freedom

While the digital world can be overwhelming for parents, these tools from Microsoft, Google, and Apple offer a way to give your children freedom while keeping them safe. By setting boundaries, limiting screen time, and fostering open conversations about online habits, you can ensure your child enjoys the best of what the internet has to offer—while avoiding its potential dangers.

As technology continues to evolve, so too must our approach to keeping our children safe. By using these tools wisely, you can give your kids a secure, balanced, and positive online experience..

Jeffrey
The Computer Tamer QLD

11/04/2023

As technology advances, the need for a home network has become increasingly important. A home network allows you to connect all of your devices, such as smartphones, computers, and smart home devices to the internet and each other. With a home network, you can easily share files, printers, and media content. Setting up a home network may seem like a daunting task, but with the right steps, it can be done easily.

1. Determine the type of network you need:
Before you start setting up your home network, it's important to determine the type of network you need. There are two types: Wired and wireless. A wired network uses Ethernet cables to connect devices to the internet, while a wireless network uses Wi-Fi to connect devices. Depending on your needs, you may choose to use one or both.

2. Choose your network equipment:
To set up a home network, you'll need a router, modem, and Ethernet cables, or Wi-Fi routers. You can purchase these items from your local electronics store or online. Ensure you choose a reputable brand that is suitable for your needs.

3. Set up your modem:
Your modem connects your home to the internet via a cable, and it's usually provided by your internet service provider. Connect the cable to your modem, and then connect an Ethernet cable from the modem to your router's WAN port.

4. Set up your router:
Your router is the heart of your home network. It's responsible for directing traffic and managing access to your devices. Connect your router to your modem, and then connect your devices to the router either via Ethernet cables or Wi-Fi.

5. Secure your network:
Once you've set up your home network, it's important to secure it from unauthorized access. Create a strong and unique network name and password to protect your network. Additionally, you may choose to limit access to specific devices, enable network encryption, and use a virtual private network (VPN) for added security.

Setting up a home network may seem daunting at first, but it's a worthwhile investment. It allows you to connect all of your devices and enjoy the convenience of file sharing, media streaming, and more. By following these steps, you'll have a secure and stable network that will enhance your home technology experience.

Please let me know if you need help in setting this up.

27/03/2021

Hi All. Please be aware! There is a scam still going around where you get a call from supposedly Telstra telling you that your internet connection is showing problems and they will "fix" it. Please just hang up on these people. Telstra or any service provider will not call you out of the blue to "fix" your internet. I've had 2 call in the last 2 weeks and a few of my clients have had the same. Here is an article on the government scam website from 2014. Old article, but very relevant today. https://www.scamwatch.gov.au/news-alerts/beware-scammers-wanting-access-to-your-computer-and-bank-account
Keep safe all.

Scammers are increasingly catching out people by impersonating well-known businesses or the police so they can get access to computers and steal money or banking information.

21/01/2018

Website updated.
Let me know when you need some technology help and I'll book you in! I come to you and cover most of the Sunshine Coast QLD. Check it out ....

21/07/2017

Are you being hacked??

With everyone being on their computer or device or mobile phone these days, the threat of being hacked is very high. We've all had that SMS stating you won something, or the call (usually from a person of Non-English speaking background) who tells you that you owe them money or something of the sort. For those of us that are pretty savvy, we end up ignoring it or hanging up. However, some of us get suckered in. The information they got to call you would of most likely come from information you entered in your computer or on your mobile.

Most hackers look for weaknesses in your security. Usually randomly. So, generally it isn't directly your fault. However, if you have a weakness in the way you use your technology, then it is likely that it will be found, and you'll usually find out that you've been hacked AFTER it has happened.

How do you avoid hackers?
Well, I can't guarantee that you will never be hacked. However, you can minimise the exposure. Here are some easy ways to help keep you safe;

• Get a proper Internet Security program. Not just an antivirus. Something like Norton Security Premium or Trend Micro™ Premium Security. These programs will usually stop any attacks before you were even aware that you were vulnerable. Most of these programs come with more than 1 licence allowing you to install it on multiple devices. Install it on your computer, your mobile, your tablet, etc.

• Never click the "CLICK ME FOR $1000 BUNNINGS VOUCHER" type emails or pop ups. These usually link to a site that will start pulling your data or asks you for your details. If you enter the details, be prepared to be bombarded! (P.S. If you did click it, don't enter your details!! In fact delete the email immediately. Or close the browser (Explorer, Opera, Firefox, Chrome, etc). No matter what prize is flashing on your screen, it isn't real! Close the web browser immediately. If it won't close, shut down the computer and restart.

• Never give a random person that calls you out of the blue your details. No one will ever call you to demand immediate payment suddenly without you being aware that you owed someone money. You would know and be fully aware if you owed anyone money. If you get a call, get their number and write down as much info as possible. Never give them your details and confirm nothing!

• Keep your passwords to yourself! Most people use 1 to 3 passwords for all of their stuff. Emails, login to various websites, Bank Passwords, Etc.
Imagine a hacker getting your email address and 1 of your passwords. How many places would they be able to login to? They could reset your password, block you from logging in or, worse still, access your emails seeing whenever you reset the password.

• Go to https://www.scamwatch.gov.au/. This is a government website alerting everyone of known scams. It's a great site to confirm if you are being scammed or not.

These are just some of the ways you can be more proactive in reducing any weaknesses. For more information, look up "How to avoid being hacked" in Google search.

*This information is based on my experience of over 25 years in computers. I am not paid by any of the mentioned brands.

Scamwatch is a website run by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), and provides information to consumers and small businesses about how to recognise, avoid and report scams.