August 7 2009 COOLSITES Newsletter #229 Mark Donaldson

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NOW AVAILABLE FOR SAFARI USERS. This is what the COOLSITES Toolbar looks like. Click here for more info: http://luem42.com/toolbar.html Click here to get it: http://luem42.OurToolbar.com


I have published the August 7 2009 COOLSITES Newsletter #229 Mark Donaldson.

The following is an excerpt from this weeks newsletter. To see the full newsletter with all of the COOLSITES links please click and bookmark this link: http://luem42.googlepages.com/coolsites.html and check it each week. Thank you. Mark.


August 7 2009 COOLSITES Newsletter #229 Mark Donaldson


Major changes to this newsletter are coming soon

Google is discontinuing Google Pages and will be moving my archive to Google Sites. However their hosting rules will also change. My html files will not be allowed due to "security reasons". This means I would have to use Google's online webpage creation program which would be more time consuming for me and bigger webpages that load slower for you.

I have checked other free hosts and can not find any that will allow me to continue as before without cost. Therefore I will have to change things. What this will mean for subscribers is very little difference. What this will mean for non-subscribers who view the newsletter online and people accessing old newsletters, "Just The Links" and "Specialized Search Engines" webpages may be drastic. I will keep you informed. Mark.



Subscribers who don't receive the newsletter, due to stupid filters, may use a private link to download the newsletter in the text ( .txt ), html ( .html ) and the MS Word Doc ( .doc ) format in a zip file. I will upload the zip files to my archive site right after I send out the newsletter on Friday morning. If a subscriber doesn't receive the newsletter, by 9am ET, they can quickly download it, unzip it and peruse it offline. You can also read it online from there.

If you are a subscriber and don't know the private link you can email me for it. These zip files are less than 40K which is smaller than the 100K or more for the newsletter.
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Semper Gratis (forever free) of cost

COOLSITES is a list of safe, fun, useful, informative and just plain cool websites and programs that are FREE, FREE and FREE. All of the programs and websites I list are free. If I list anything that is so good but isn't free I will list the price with it.

My website is Dialup Friendly. All pages except "Just The Links" and "Specialized Search Engines" load up in under 15 seconds.

Wherever you go if you see the user name LUEM42 that's me
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Pirillo's Picks for February 13 2007

"And if you think that's a lot of links, you should see how many http://luem42.com/ collects every day. It's enough to make you wanna never leave the house again as long as you live" Yours Digitally, Chris Pirillo http://chris.pirillo.com/
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Clif Notes Newsletter, Feb 2007 http://freewarewiki.com/ClifNotes

"The COOLSITES Newsletter - find the coolest links here. This fella named Mark Donaldson has been sending out his lists of cool sites since 2003. I'd never heard of him before last week. One day I was Googling myself to see who was posting links to my newsletter, and I found his website. I guess he's mentioned my newsletter at least 3 times. I like the COOLSITES website too, but I think it could use some reformatting to make it a bit easier to read. What I really like is the content there. Mark must really read a lot of stuff on the web and he takes the best links then tells you about them." http://freewarewiki.com/CoolSitesNewsletter


Welcome to Clif Notes Newsletter
Aug 2, 2009

I'm back sooner than expected. Let me know if you have any problems at
viewing the newsletter.

Here are the headlines from this week's newsletter.

What free software do you need?
CurrPorts - Find Out Who Is Spying On You
How to Create Gradient Desktop Wallpapers
STP - Tiny but Full Featured MP3 Player
JHoodsoft Newsletter
Awesome photos from Tiffany
Internetfixes Weekend Windup
COOLSITES Newsletter

Latest newsletter http://freewarewiki.com/ClifNotesNewsletter090802
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Security News and Links

I get these links and news from good sources however I do not test the programs myself because I just don't have the time. The definitive source of rogue info is Spyware Warrior- Rogue-Suspect Anti-Spyware Products & Web Sites: http://www.spywarewarrior.com/rogue_anti-spyware.htm





"National Cyber Alert System Cyber Security Alert SA09-218A Apple Updates for Multiple Vulnerabilities Original release date: August 06, 2009 Source: US-CERT Systems Affected * Apple Mac OS X versions prior to and including 10.4.11 (Tiger) and 10.5.7 (Leopard) * Apple Mac OS X Server versions prior to and including 10.4.11 (Tiger) and 10.5.7 (Leopard) Overview: Apple has released Mac OS X v10.5.8 / Security Update 2009-003 to correct multiple vulnerabilities affecting Apple Mac OS X and Mac OS X Server. Attackers could exploit these vulnerabilities to take control of your computer, access your sensitive information, or crash your computer. Solution: Install the updates Use Software Update or Apple Downloads to install updates. Description Apple Mac OS X v10.5.8 / Security Update 2009-003 addresses a number of vulnerabilities affecting Apple Mac OS X and Mac OS X Server. These updates also address vulnerabilities in other vendors' products that ship with Apple Mac OS X or Mac OS X Server. For more technical information, see http://support.apple.com/kb/HT3757 "



An I.D. Theft Story

The victim, Mark Donaldson (Hey that's me!), who suffers from insomnia wakes up at 5am, on Monday 7-27, satisfied that his sleeping medication gave him 5 decent hours of sleep. After taking care of his normal functions he checks his email. One email is from the bank that handles his credit card informing him of an online charge of $25.96 on Sunday that he never made. He immediately called the credit card company, at 6:30 am, and informed them of a possible I.D. theft. The credit card company said they would close that card's number and send him a new card along with a charge dispute form. He doesn't go online for his daily checking of websites because he has an 8am doctors appointment for a scheduled routine check-up. While at the doctor's office his wife, Dee, receives a computer phone call from the credit card company to call them back. When he returns home, at 10:30 am, he calls them and finds another charge, for over $400, was attempted after his card was suspended. The representative told him that the charge was denied and that a fraud investigator will review this and call him later in the week. He eats a late breakfast since he had fasting blood tests and decides to take a nap to prevent sleep deprivation. After a short but refreshing nap he scans his computer with Avast, SUPERAntiSpyware and Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware. Avast found nothing. SUPERAntiSpyware found 2 tracking cookies. One was from Fox News and they other was from a computer discounter. They were deleted. Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware said that Registry Trash Keys Finder 3.7.0 was Malware.packer. Since this was a standalone/portable program installed on the secondary drive and has never been used it is improbable that it was causing a problem and may be a false positive. To be sure the program was deleted. He then goes online for his daily sites knowing that there was never a security breach on his end and some company he's done business with probably had their data stolen.

Cost to secure my credit card......Nothing

Time needed to correct problem......About 30 minutes

How it feels to be secure......Priceless

Update August 7 2009. I was never contacted by a fraud investigator. Mark.



They Tried To Scam Me

I got 1 new scam emails this week. Here it is. Mark


Dear Friend,

I am Mr. Tetsuya Koike the Manager, Branch Support Division of Chiba Bank
Ltd of 3rd Floor, Atlas House 1 King Street, London EC2V 8AU, U.K.

I have a very confidential business proposition with you; I will need you
to execute a project on behalf of my late client which amount to GBP£25
MILLION POUNDS in my bank. Please, indicate your interest to enable me
furnish you with full detail of this transaction.

Your urgent response will highly Appreciated.

Regards
Mr. Tetsuya Koike. koiketetsuya85.TakeThisOut@yahoo.com.hk


Adobe - Install Adobe Flash Player 10.0.32.18: http://get.adobe.com/flashplayer/

Adobe - Security Advisories- APSA09-03 - Security Advisory for Adobe Reader, Acrobat and Flash Player. critical vulnerability exists in the current versions of Flash Player (v9.0.159.0 and v10.0.22.87) for Windows: http://www.adobe.com/support/security/advisories/apsa09-03.html

Apple fixes hole with Mac OS X image viewing: http://ct.cnet-ssa.cnet.com/clicks?t=327955715-be56918137808c8d29d6177...a633af-

Apple fixes iPhone SMS flaw: http://ct.cnet-ssa.cnet.com/clicks?t=322317932-be56918137808c8d29d6177...a633af-

Apple says it's fixed iPhone SMS vulnerability: http://apnews.myway.com/article/20090731/D99PJSH03.html

Apple tried to silence owner of exploding iPod with gagging order: http://technology.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/tech_and_web/personal_tec...rticle6

AVG UPDATE KNOCKS OUT ITUNES. AVG has instructions on its site to fix the problem: http://www.avg.com.au/index.cfm?section=support&action=tech_bullet...&fe

BBB Warns of Cash For Clunkers Scams: http://www.kktv.com/home/headlines/52531272.html

Beware Man-In-The-Middle Hacker Attacks: http://www.infopackets.com/news/security/2009/20090804_beware_man_in_t...middle_

Black Hat Security. iPhone And Firefox At Risk: http://go.infopackets.com/e20090731-04

Computrace Anti-theft software could create security hole: http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5gDEcxr3CSkM0RlVSqVzN...cf6XwD9

DIY home surveillance. free apps that work on PCs, Macs, or both: http://ct.cnet-ssa.cnet.com/clicks?t=326054729-be56918137808c8d29d6177...a633af-

Microsoft Password Strength Checker: http://www.microsoft.com/protect/yourself/password/checker.mspx

Network Solutions Hacked, 500k Credit Cards Exposed: http://go.infopackets.com/e20090806-08

New. Who's using my wireless network. Helping to protect wireless networks and maintain computer security, new freeware tool by Zamzom allows users to detect all computer names, Mac and IP addresses utilizing a single wireless network: http://www.zamzom.com/

New. With GeSWall (GentleSecurityWall), you can safely surf the web, open e-mail attachments, chat, exchange files etc, regardless of the security threats posed by the internet: http://www.gentlesecurity.com/

Online job listing an ID theft scam. ‘Background check’ used to steal full slate of personal info: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3078533/

Public Wi-Fi Safety tips: http://www.lockergnome.com/windows/2009/08/03/public-wi-fi-safety-tips/

Researchers offer tools for eavesdropping and video hijacking: http://ct.cnet-ssa.cnet.com/clicks?t=322317930-be56918137808c8d29d6177...a633af-

The Local ATM Might Be A Threat. never trust non-bank owned ATMs: http://www.lockergnome.com/it/2009/08/03/the-local-atm-might-be-a-threat/

Top antispyware software The Download Blog - Download.com: http://download.cnet.com/8301-2007_4-10298828-12.html

Troubleshooting Viruses And Worms Part IV: http://www.lockergnome.com/it/2009/07/30/troubleshooting-viruses-and-w...s-part-

Tutor Scam Alert for Work-Seekers. Scambusters.org: http://www.scambusters.org/tutorscam.html

Twitter warms up malware filter: http://ct.cnet-ssa.cnet.com/clicks?t=327955723-be56918137808c8d29d6177...a633af-

UAC Hack Malware. Not even released yet and a significant flaw is already out there with regard to how Windows 7 handles white listing in the UAC: http://www.lockergnome.com/it/2009/08/05/uac-hack-malware-huh/

Update. Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware 1.40 antimalware tool: http://www.malwarebytes.org/

Update. xpy 1.0.0 beta 4 small program which will disable the default threats of your Windows XP installation: http://xpy.whyeye.org/

Using software updates to spread malware: http://ct.cnet-ssa.cnet.com/clicks?t=322317926-be56918137808c8d29d6177...a633af-
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Consumer News and Links


CiCi's Pizza is hosting an Ultimate Pizza Party on Saturday, August 8th. Just go in anytime between 11 a.m. and 9 p.m. Plus, during the party anyone who orders the buffet will receive a $100 coupon book



Just another good reason to subscribe and get this info before it expires

From http://www.consumerworld.org/

More Airlines Boosting Luggage Fees
How to Read an Online Privacy Policy + Analysis of the Top 15
Mfrs Sue Over NYC's Recycling Program Requiring Them to Pick Up Old eWaste Free
Study: Organic Foods No Better than Conventional for Health
Parents Giving Cell Phones to Young Kids
It's Christmas in July as Credit Cards Hike Fees
Lawsuits Allege Banks Manipulate Order Checks are Paid to Maximize Overdraft Fees
Panasonic Chip Forces Use of Only Panasonic Batteries in their Digital Cameras
Microsoft Plans to Open Retail Stores
Verizon Offers Free Wi-Fi to Higher End Customers
AT&T and Verizon Spar over Reliability Claims
In NYC, Some Buyers Opt to Lose Deposits on Pricey Homes
EPA Tinkers with Mileage #s on Some Clunkers
Landlord Sues Tenant over Twitter Tweet
How to Build a Portfolio in Uncertain Times
Tips on Getting Half Price Broadway Seats @ TKTS
So You Think You Can Text & Drive? Take this Test
Health Care Costs 42% More for Fat People
Some Concerned about Airline Cabin Air Quality
Dept. Stores Look to House Brands to Offer Value
Questions to Ask a New Financial Advisor
UAL Loses Man's Guitar, He Complains via Song on Net
FDA: Old Mercury Fillings Do Not Need Replacement
Textfree Offers Unlimited Texting for $5.99/yr
FTC Delays "Red Flags" Data Rules Again
Exploitable Vulnerabilities of Credit Reports




From: The TopSavings.com Team http://www.TopSavings.com

Eat Free @ Arby's on Wednesdays w/ Purchase (US)

You can go to Arby's every Wednesday and get free food. Here is the
schedule:


August 12th - Free Roast Chicken Club with any soft drink purchase
August 19th - Free FruiTea with any sandwich purchase
August 26th - Free Regular Beef 'n Cheddar with any soft drink purchase


ABI's Consumer Bankruptcy Center: http://consumer.abiworld.org/

Am I Covered- Common Questions Asked by Homeowners - Publication of the Week - FCIC: http://www.pueblo.gsa.gov/puboftheweek.htm

America's Best Contacts and Eyeglasses - Changing the way America buys glasses!: http://www.twopair.com/

Auctions for Free Stuff - Listia.com: http://www.listia.com/

Beware Free Trial Offers. Why. Some of these companies begin shipping and charging for the second and third order before you have had the time specified to try the initial 'free' order: http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2009/07/28/eveningnews/main5193515.shtml

Cash for Clunkers Eligible New Cars: http://www.edmunds.com/cash-for-clunkers/new-car-candidates.html

Cash for clunkers program may be running on empty: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090731/ap_on_go_ot/us_cash_for_clunkers

Cash for clunkers program. Government Suspends Popular 'Clunkers' Program: http://wcbstv.com/consumer/cash.clunkers.success.2.1108544.html

Cash for clunkers program. House OKs $2 billion more for Cash for Clunkers program: http://money.cnn.com/2009/07/31/autos/cash_for_clunkers_update/index.htm

Consumer Reports. pros and cons of each type of flooring: http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/magazine-archive/august-2009/home-g...en/floo

Felix Freebies — Free Stuff Free Offers Freebies Collection: http://www.felix-freebies.com/

Felix' Freebies - Newest Freebies Free Suff: http://www.felix-freebies.com/view_cat4.php?cat=66

Free Chocolate cake at Dominos if you have an August Birthday: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Dominos-Introduces-Chocolate-prnews-3214...887.htm

Free food coupon for Joe’s Crab Shack: http://www.freestufftimes.com/31/free-food-coupon-for-joes-crab-shack/

free general admission for you and a guest to hundreds of museums and cultural venues nationwide: http://microsite.smithsonianmag.com/museumday/about.html

Free gift for CVS ExtraCare members: http://www.freestufftimes.com/31/free-gift-for-cvs-extracare-members/

McDonald's is offering a free medium fries and drink when you purchase any Angus Third Pounder. They usually don't offer coupons like this: http://www.topsavings.com/index.asp?ID=25722&tfsnews=yes

Mouse Print. Beware Teeth Whitening Free Trial Offers: http://www.mouseprint.org/

Sony has doubled the loading time of games on the PS3, and is forcing customers to watch advertisements: http://www.lockergnome.com/griffin/2009/08/03/sony-doubles-loading-tim...in-ps3-
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Windows Secrets Newsletter

Free content posted on August 6, 2009:


TOP STORY
By Becky Waring
Gmail flaw shows value of strong passwords
Use tough passwords but make them easy to recall
Dos and don'ts to keep your passwords safe

KNOWN ISSUES
By Dennis O'Reilly
Navigating the maze of Microsoft patches

WACKY WEB WEEK
By Katy Abby
Go really green with Taco Bell's artificial food

http://WindowsSecrets.com/comp/090806
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Make My Start Page Your Home Page I have updated it on 6-25-2009 with Twitter

Try my start page and make it your home page by clicking "Click here to make my start page your default homepage".

It has the following convenient logins and links such as: Google Mail Login, Yahoo Mail Login, Windows Live MSN HotMail Login, Froogle Price Search, Google Maps, MySpace Login, Lockergnome Cool Web Links, Weather Radar, BugMeNot, E! Online, Zap2it TV Guide, Snopes, Scambusters, YouTube, FaceBook, Twitter and links to my webpages. You can also google the web or my website. It also has a link for your suggestions so you can help me make it better.

The best thing about it is it's simple, small and loads up on dialup in less than one second. Check it out today at: http://luem42.googlepages.com/start.html
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Space Weather News for Aug. 4, 2009

POSSIBLE PERSEID METEOR OUTBURST: This year's Perseid meteor shower could be even better than usual. According to NASA's Meteoroid Environment Office, a filament of comet dust has drifted across Earth's path and when Earth passes through it, sometime between 0800 and 0900 UT (1 - 2 am PDT) on August 12th, the Perseid meteor rate could surge to twice its normal value. Check http://spaceweather.com for details and observing tips.

PERSEIDS ON YOUR iPHONE: Spaceweather.com is pleased to announce a new iPhone/iPod application dedicated to the upcoming Perseid meteor shower. It features a Perseid countdown clock, news alerts, an easy-to-use sky map, and a live gallery of photos from around the world. Sky watchers of all types will find it a valuable companion when the shower peaks later this month.

Learn more: http://spaceweather.com/perseids
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COOLSITES 114 cool links

I harvest what I believe to be the best links from the best sources that are safe, fun, informative, useful and just plain cool. I categorize them and edit their descriptions for clarity. I may make comments about the links but you will know because I always sign them with "Mark".