Winter Haven Library has free technology classes

Years ago, computer users could turn to other users to learn about what computers can do – and find out how to get them to do it. Computer clubs have disappeared, mainly because computers have become a lot simpler to use over the years.

Still, help can be found at your local library. Winter Haven Public Library, for instance, has a full schedule of classes that are free but require registration.

First up for April is Canva 101 (Tuesday, 2 to 3 p.m.), online or at the library. Canva is a graphic-design program. It’s free, and allows users to share content and ideas to create posters, documents, social media graphics and other marketing and promotional items.

The next day, (Wednesday, from 3 to 4 p.m.) the library will turn its attention to the Android phone. The class will be in person at the library. “In this class we’ll share usage tips and tricks, basic functions, apps and troubleshooting. Bring your own phone or tablet to get some hands-on experience during the class,” the library advised.

Users of iPhones will have a class for them on April 12 from 2 to 3 p.m., also in person at the library. The class will be an informal question-and-answer session, so bring an iPhone – it’s okay to use it during class.

Job seekers can take a class on resume writing on April 20 from 3 to 4 p.m. The in-person class at the library centers on Microsoft Word resume templates. In addition, constructive editing tips will be available for existing resumes.

On April 26 from 2 to 3 p.m., streaming media devices will be covered at the library. Google Chromecast and Amazon Fire TV stick are two such streaming devices that will be covered. Students will learn “the differences between these two devices and how they can be cost-effective alternatives to cable TV.”

The library is located a 325 Ave. A NW, Winter Haven, 33881. For more information, visit the library’s website, www.mywinterhaven.com/library, or call 863-291-5880.

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Scammers take advantage of war in Ukraine

Several cybersecurity firms have issued warnings over the past month cautioning that criminals and scammers are at work taking advantage of the chaos surrounding the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

The common theme is that the scammers pose as Ukrainians who are in immediate need of financial help, or they imitate the websites of international charitable organizations.

Users can help lessen their risks by not clicking on links provided in emails and other electronic communications. Instead, type the website for known charities into the URL window on the browser.

An alternative is to go to this website – www.scamadviser.com – and type in the website of the charity to be evaluated.

Scam involving Lakeland Electric

Speaking of scams, there’s a telephone scam making the rounds that involves Lakeland Electric. A recorded female voice warns the customer that the account is delinquent and service will be cut off within 45 minutes if the deficit isn’t erased immediately.

The prospective sucker is then told to press 1 to be placed in touch with a representative. That’s when I hung up and called Lakeland Electric to report the incident.

“We don’t call people and tell them we’re going to shut their power off in 45 minutes,” a customer representative told me.

As noted in the previous item: If there’s the least bit of doubt, go directly to the source instead of believing the source has contacted you.

Lonnie Brown can be reached at [email protected].

This article originally appeared on The Ledger: Learn about cell phones, TV devices and more at Winter Haven Library