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1: CYBER SECURITY TOPICS | Envision Consulting

Virtual DR for Ransomware ProtectionThe massive success of ransomware like WannaCry and Petya have spurred other cybercriminals to develop their own ransomware and sell it on the black market. This means we can expect more ransomware attacks in the future. To prepare your business, you need virtualized disaster recovery solutions. Here’s why.

Virtual DRVirtual DR solutions allow you to create point-in-time copies, or “snapshots,” of operating systems, data, and virtual machines as they appear at a given point in time. These snapshots can then be loaded onto any workstation with everything still intact. In the event of a ransomware attack, administrators can essentially roll back the system to a point before the malware hit.

What’s great about point-in-time copy features is that they are automated. Just schedule the snapshots, and your virtual DR software will do the rest. And although virtual DR solutions vary, most of them have the capacity to store thousands of point-in-time copies, giving you plenty of restore points to choose from.

Why Virtual DR Trumps Traditional DRTraditional DR methods don’t have these features. Even though most computer operating systems have a system restore functionality, modern ransomware strains are designed to disable them. On the other hand, virtual DR software isolates point-in-time copies and restores functionality from virtual machines, which means they can’t be affected if one virtual machine was compromised with ransomware.

Another reason why traditional DR is not a great option is because there is a lot of manual labor involved. You have to copy all your data into a backup drive, reinstall applications, and reconfigure hardware. By the time you’ve recovered from the ransomware attack, the financial and reputational damage caused by downtime will have taken its toll on your business.

When recovering your system, you want as little hassle as possible. With virtual DR, you can load a clean, ransomware-free snapshot onto your system in less than 30 minutes.

However, implementing virtual DR can be complex, especially if you don’t have much IT expertise. But if you partner with us, this won’t be a problem! Call us today to get robust solutions that guarantee business continuity.

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Social Media: Securing Key Accounts and DevicesSocial media platforms have become an integral part of online lives. Social networks are a great way to stay connected with others, but you should be wary about how much personal information you post.

Have your family, friends and community follow these tips to safely enjoy social media:

• Privacy and security settings exist for a reason: Learn about and use the privacy and security settings on social networks. They are there to help you control who sees what you post and manage your online experience in a positive way.

• Once posted, always posted: Protect your reputation on social networks. What you post online stays online. Think twice before posting pictures you wouldn’t want your parents or future employers to see. Recent research found that 70 percent of job recruiters rejected candidates based on information they found online.

• Your online reputation can be a good thing: Recent research also found that recruiters respond to a strong, positive personal brand online. So show your smarts, thoughtfulness and mastery of the environment.

• Keep personal info personal: Be cautious about how much personal information you provide on social networking sites. The more information you post, the easier it may be for a hacker or someone else to use that information to steal your identity, access your data or commit other crimes such as stalking.

• Know and manage your friends: Social networks can be used for a variety of purposes. Some of the fun is creating a large pool of friends from many aspects of your life. That doesn’t mean all friends are created equal. Use tools to manage the information you share with friends in different groups or even have multiple online pages. If you’re trying to create a public persona as a blogger or expert, create an open profile or a “fan” page that encourages broad participation and limits personal information. Use your personal profile to keep your real friends (the ones you know and trust) up to date with your daily life.

• Be honest if you’re uncomfortable: If a friend posts something about you that makes you uncomfortable or seems inappropriate, let them know. Likewise, stay open minded if a friend approaches you because something you’ve posted makes him or her uncomfortable. People have different tolerances for how much the world knows about them. Respect those differences.

• Know what action to take: If someone is harassing or threatening you, remove them from your friends list, block them and report them to the site administrator.

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Protect yourself with these STOP. THINK. CONNECT.™ tips:

• Keep security software current: Having the latest security software, web browser and operating system is the best defense against viruses, malware and other online threats.

• Own your online presence: When applicable, set the privacy and security settings on websites to your comfort level for information sharing. It’s OK to limit how and with whom you share information.

• Make your password a sentence: A strong password is a sentence that is at least 12 characters long. Focus on positive sentences or phrases that you like to think about and are easy to remember (for example, “I love country music.”). On many sites, you can even use spaces!

• Unique account, unique password: Having separate passwords for every account helps to thwart cybercriminals. At a minimum, separate your work and personal accounts and make sure that your critical accounts have the strongest passwords.

• When in doubt, throw it out: Links in emails, tweets, posts and online advertising are often how cybercriminals try to steal your personal information. Even if you know the source, if something looks suspicious, delete it.

• Post only about others as you would have them post about you. The Golden Rule applies online as well.

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2: DRUG REHAB | Soba College Recovery

Is Detox Enough?When someone is recovering from an addiction, the most successful treatment will not only help him or her to eradicate toxic substances from his or her body, but it will also pinpoint and treat the issues that caused the addition. When you view the situation this way, it’s easy to see why detox alone can never be enough. If you never get to the root cause of the addiction, a relapse is virtually inevitable. Nobody wants to go through all the stress of withdrawal only to succumb to a relapse later. This is why it’s vital for anyone in rehab and his or her family to realize the deeper level of care that is required to treat any substance abuse disorder.

Understanding DetoxIf someone uses drugs or alcohol for an extended period, the brain’s delicate chemical balance can be affected. When he or she then goes through a detox, that balance becomes disturbed. The chemicals that the brain has relied on for so long are withheld, and this leads to withdrawal symptoms.

These symptoms include:• Strong cravings• Muscle aches• Insomnia• Paranoia• Restlessness• Difficulty in concentrating• Appetite fluctuations

When it comes to dealing with the process of detox, it is better if it is done under medical supervision. Doctors can help in the management of the discomfort that the symptoms produce while offering emotional support to help deal with the anxiety and depression that are so common at this time.

Which Factors Drive Addiction?Although some rehab treatment programs focus solely on detox, it is better and more productive to think of detox as only an initial step toward a full recovery. The journey to full rehabilitation is a long and complex one since those who are struggling to overcome addiction are not only fighting the substance abuse disorder itself, they are often also combating mental health problems. This is termed a “dual diagnosis.”

Dual diagnoses are not uncommon, but if they remain untreated, they will almost always make the process of recovery more complicated. If someone has developed a problem with drinking or drugs because of self-medicating to handle mental health issues, it could escalate into an addiction that is hard to overcome since the individual has no other way to control the symptoms of his or her mental health issues. The result is an ongoing cycle – addiction followed by detox and then a relapse because the underlying issues have not been addressed.

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Why Treat Psychological Issues?In a great many instances, those who use harmful substances do so in an attempt to help cope with mental health problems. If someone goes through detox without treating the underlying disorders, the chances are high that he or she will return to abusing substances shortly after returning to his or her normal life when leaving rehab. There are many benefits to treating the psychological issues that lie behind an individual’s addiction, and anyone who commits to long-term rehab and changes in lifestyle will be much more likely to steer clear of a relapse.

Overcoming Addiction ForeverGoing through a medical detox will remove the body’s physical dependence on alcohol or drugs. However, in most cases, it has absolutely no effect on the mind. If the mind is constantly craving the substance that was abused, the temptation to return to drugs or alcohol will eventually become too strong to resist. The mind must be healed just as much as the body. Therefore, a good quality recovery program is essential to find the psychological independence free from substances that allow for mental, spiritual, and emotional healing.

Facilities that only offer detox as a form of treatment are unable to offer sufficient support for addicted individuals to overcome the issues that have led to their addictive behaviors in the first place. Patients who only go through detox and receive no further treatment to pinpoint the deeper issues and address them are setting themselves up for failure and to fall back into a cycle of co-occurring problems.

Putting in The EffortAlthough some treatment programs still take a 30-day approach, evidence has shown that this is nowhere near enough time to address the deep-seated issues that have resulted from addiction. When you think about it, addiction does not occur overnight. Therefore, putting the same amount of time and energy into your recovery as you put into getting addicted in the first place will be necessary. It is very unrealistic to expect a complete recovery to happen after just a few days of detox without finding new ways of coping with problems that don’t involve using harmful substances. People who have those expectations are at even more risk of a relapse since they are sure to be disappointed by the emotions that they experience when they return to their normal lives following rehab.

SOBA’s Treatment ProgramSOBA College Recovery Addiction Treatment Recovery Center takes an innovative approach to treatment, helping young people to explore the issues that lie behind their addictions to drugs or alcohol. By taking the necessary time to pinpoint the emotional or mental issues that have resulted from the addiction, and then working through those issues, it is possible to then focus on ways to cope with those issues and find healthier approaches for handling them than using substances. Treating those mental and emotional issues alongside the addiction itself is the best way to promote the right environment for long-term recovery and will equip young people with all the tools and skills that they need to face the challenges that everyday life will present once they leave rehab.

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SOBA’s skilled therapists and doctors know the best approaches to take to help young people through the challenging process of detox and the other elements of recovery that go with it. By taking a multipronged and individualized approach that has been tailored and customized to meet each person’s unique needs, SOBA’s rehab programs give everyone the best possible chance of living a long and positive substance-free life with a minimal fear of a relapse.

ReferencesSimpson, D & Joe, George & W. Fletcher, Bennett & L. Hubbard, Robert & Douglas Anglin, M. (1999). A National Evaluation of Treatment Outcomes for Cocaine Dependence. Archives of general psychiatry. 56. 507-14. 10.1001/archpsyc.56.6.507.

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7 Myths About Drug Abuse and AddictionWhen you learn that a loved one is addicted to drugs or alcohol, you may be furious, distraught, or in disbelief. It’s normal to experience a whole spectrum of emotions, especially if it came as a shock. Negative feelings can arise due to the vast amount of myths and stigma surrounding addiction.

In order to support your loved one’s recovery, these myths need to be replaced with fact. Understanding this terrible disease will allow you to relate and support the addicted person in their rehabilitation.

At SOBA College Recovery, one of the leading drug rehab centers in NJ, we want to inform people about the truth surrounding drugs, addiction and recovery. We know it’s the key to banishing addiction and helping friends and family deal with the reality of drug abuse.

Without further ado, here are the most commonly held myths about addiction, and what you should know instead.

1. Good People Don’t Take DrugsAccording to Promises Treatment Center, 27.1 million people over the age of 12 used illicit drugs in 2015 – about 1 in 10 Americans. A Pew Research Center survey in 2017 found that 46% of Americans say they have a close friend or relative who has been addicted to drugs. Are they all bad people? Of course not.

The stigma that drug users are ‘bad’ is neither true nor helpful. Ordinary, everyday, good people are sometimes driven to drugs as a coping mechanism for life, for thousands of reasons. Sometimes life just gets to be much and taking a drug to remedy it seems like a good idea at the time. The problem is, this can quickly turn into an addiction out of the person’s control.

2. People Can Stop Using Drugs If They Want ToIf quitting drugs was easy, addiction wouldn’t exist. Entering rehab is not something anyone wants to do, but it is often a last resort when someone has tried their best to quit on their own. Withdrawing from drugs entails a lot of physical and mental pain. It’s the job of rehab centers to support a person through this time with the medical aid they need.

3. The 12-Step Program Is Outdated and Doesn’t Work TodayThe 12-step program’s longevity is owed to its success rate. Sure, it doesn’t work for everyone, but rehab centers still employ it today because it is an option that does help people finally quit drugs. It’s there if people want it, and many addiction therapists and psychologists swear by it.

4. Addiction Should Be Kept QuietThis dangerous myth perpetuates the stigma and shame surrounding addiction, and it is a prime reason why many people do not seek help sooner. Discussing drugs within families – yes, even with mature children – creates an open environment where knowledge is gained, and problems can be shared.

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If you aren’t ready to tell your family about your drug use, you could tell a trusted friend, a pastor, or a support group. Telling someone is the first step of acceptance. Addictions can worsen when people are too scared to speak up.

5. I Would Know if My Loved One Used DrugsThe same shame that stops people from asking for help also means they are great at hiding their addiction. Many people think they know their friends and family well enough to know if something was wrong – this sadly isn’t always true. Sometimes a person doesn’t find out their spouse or child is using until they are addicted, and that’s why talking about drugs is so important.

6. Getting Sober Means You’re No Longer AddictedDetoxing from drugs or alcohol is hard – but is just the first step to recovery. Addiction doesn’t end when a person no longer has drugs in their system: it’s a mental condition whereby the brain believes the body needs drugs to function. Staying clean is the person’s next challenge and may be even harder than successfully detoxing.

7. Rehab Doesn’t WorkSome people attempt to get clean on their own because they believe rehab is a waste of time and money. However, medical assistance is highly recommended during withdrawal, and counseling drastically helps reduce the risk of relapse after detox.

If you or someone you know is struggling with drugs or addiction, reach out. SOBA College Recovery is always contactable as the first step of recovering from addiction. Get in touch today to find out how we can help you.

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3: TECHNOLOGY | KnowTechie

The Cloud is Evolving: A Look at Current Cloud DevelopmentsNot that long ago, many industry professionals claimed that cloud computing was a passing fad with little real practical value. But how often have the experts been wrong, particularly when it comes to emerging technologies? The growth and uptake of this type of computing have been nothing short of phenomenal, and it’s showing no signs of slowing down.

Initially, only the big players working with vast amounts of data, often at multiple locations, used the cloud. The technology has evolved, becoming a cost-effective and practical solution for businesses of all sizes. Most of us employ some form of cloud technology, even if it is only for storing and sharing personal information.

The early teething problems that all emerging technologies experience have, for the most part, been ironed out when it comes to cloud-based developments. With massive growth and subsequent competition, prices have dropped exponentially.

Cloud computing has lived up to much of the initial hype and has proved itself to be a reliable, safe, practical, and cost-effective alternative to in-house servers and a large infrastructure for many companies. Forbes reports that by 2018, the typical IT department will have the minority of their apps and platforms—only 40 percent—in on-premise systems. With more companies moving their applications to the cloud, it is pertinent to take a closer look at a few emerging trends.

The Cloud is Becoming More Mobile FriendlyAs smartphones have become standard for most of the working population, many companies have embraced the improved productivity that comes with allowing staff members to access enterprise systems from their mobile devices. Many workers are demanding the flexibility and increased productivity that comes with bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policies. It makes good business sense to embrace the innovation.

Because of this growing trend, cloud services are becoming more mobile friendly. The cloud is perfectly aligned with mobile devices, and it is advisable to allow the two to communicate. This has been particularly evident in the Enterprise Resource Planning space. Cloud ERP resources demonstrate how employees can integrate mobile devices with the cloud for work purposes, to name just one cloud-based workflow improvement.

Many companies have already embraced the technology with great success. Having full access to all systems, information, and workflows on the go will improve customer service and give your company a competitive advantage.

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The Cloud Will Eliminate Geographical BoundariesThe cloud already exists on a global scale with multinational companies benefiting from seamlessly integrated systems. This is likely to improve and grow in popularity for large and small businesses alike. Companies that would not have considered going international just a few years ago are now able to make the leap. Once you consider the available multi-language interfaces and multi-currency financial tools, it just makes the cloud more attractive and beneficial for all businesses.

The Cloud Eliminates Local BarriersIt is not only on a global scale that we see the cloud bringing people closer together. On a local level, it serves to reduce barriers between departments and company employees. It facilitates communication and the sharing of data and ideas. It also integrates companies externally by connecting to business partners, customers, and suppliers.

This reduces friction and streamlines processes, speeding up communication and workflow. It results in improvements in productivity, better communication, and enhanced customer service.

Cloud Computing Adoption Will Continue to Grow RapidlyCloud computing has more than proved its benefits to companies large and small. Those that have not already moved all or part of their computing to the cloud have likely taken note of its value, and many are actively considering adopting it. Take a look at your systems and structures to see where cloud computing could benefit your organization.

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3: TECHNOLOGY | Net News Ledger

How Mobility Can Make Your EPR More EffectiveWorkers at all levels are becoming more mobile, a trend that has many benefits for the organization as well as the individual. While mobility offers many advantages, it also poses a few challenges. Enterprise systems, networks and security need to keep pace to accommodate the growth of mobility in a safe and effective manner.

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems have generally been accessible remotely through a laptop or PDA. There is now a huge demand for ERP to be available across the board on all mobile devices. This will only lead to greater productivity, better customer service and improved data capturing. These advantages will strengthen client relationships and give your company a distinct competitive advantage.

Let’s take a look at some of the advantages mobile ERP will provide.

Greater ProductivityMany people choose to do work outside of normal business hours and on weekends. Other workers might be traveling between destinations or waiting at the airport. By allowing remote workers access to the ERP system, they will be able to utilize their time in a more productive fashion. It makes sense to allow and encourage this. Communicating with the internal enterprise systems can only lead to greater efficiencies. It also caters to the flexibility demanded by many workers.

When the individual gets back to their desk, there is no catch up necessary as they have been keeping themselves and the ERP system up to date along the way. This also means internal reports are accurate in real time, not lagging hours or even days behind. Cloud-based ERP systems go hand in hand with the rise of bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policies and their impact on workplace productivity. In 2011, Intel found that each of their 17,000 employees who used personal smartphones at work gained 57 minutes of productivity each day on average.

Better Customer ServiceHaving the necessary tools on hand to access real-time, relevant information whenever and wherever needed will enable employees to provide better service to the customer. Employing mobile ERP can speed up workflows and informational exchanges.

Improved Data CaptureBy eliminating the repetitive process of capturing data in the field only to have to re-enter when back in the office will not only speed the process up but will reduce errors. This will save a great deal of time and minimize the overall opportunity for redundant errors. It also means that the system is constantly updated and reports are in real-time.

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Stronger Client RelationshipsThe improved flow of information, faster response times and improved service will lead to improvements in business relationships.

Enhanced Reporting SystemsHaving access to accurate, up-to-date information and reporting will enable business leaders to make better decisions based on the improved relevance and availability of data. It will also assist in spotting opportunities as well as identifying potential threats.

Your company can customize reports and display them as dashboards or infographics for better planning, scheduling and control.

Competitive AdvantageAs ERP systems become the main hub for information, communication and workflows, real-time accessibility will become crucial to your business success.

All of the above factors will combine to give your company a competitive advantage if mobile ERP is implemented and used effectively.

Risks and LimitationsThe advantages of embracing mobility for ERP applications are clear and obvious. It does pose a few challenges that need to be considered before implementing mobile ERP.

Application management and device management will pose challenges to the IT department as workers use a range of devices to access the system. Updates and maintenance will now have to extend to the mobile users as well as internally.

One of the main concerns is security. While it is always important to control security, this task becomes more difficult with more devices on the network, more access points to the system and the risk of mobile devices falling into the wrong hands or being compromised by a virus or malware. The IT department will lose a certain amount of control and some responsibility will have to be shifted onto the individuals. With the correct protection and sufficient checks and balances, this risk is manageable, just as it is internally. Before allowing employees to use mobile phones and tablets to access your ERP, identify vulnerabilities in your security system and update accordingly to stay on top of cyber safety.

While the implementation and control of mobile ERP will pose a few challenges, the benefits far outweigh the additional effort required by the IT department. Mobility allows your company to conduct business on your terms from anywhere in the world.

Mobile ERP will streamline communications and workflows, improve productivity and empower mobile workers to perform at their best. It might just be the edge your company needs right now.

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3: TECHNOLOGY | Innovation Excellence

Behind the Scenes: An Inside Look at Amazon’s Futuristic Distribution SystemEver since Ford revolutionized auto production by implementing the assembly line in 1913, manufacturing has come a long way. One of the current innovations taking place pertains to distribution. With an extremely demanding multinational client base and fierce competition from rivals, fast and efficient distribution is becoming one of the greatest competitive advantages for a company. People do not want slow delivery times and will not tolerate errors or delays.

The distribution industry has embraced various forms of technology and software systems to streamline processes, making them faster while minimizing errors. Warehouse management software, distribution software, and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems have been in use for some time now.

Apart from the software, most modern distribution centers rely on various machines, conveyor belts, robotics and other mechanization and technologies to optimize their tasks. None have come close to the level of automation that Amazon has achieved.

Amazon Fulfilment CentersGiven the millions of products they must distribute at lightning speed to all parts of the world, the company has had no choice but to pioneer advanced distribution techniques. No modern warehouse is complete without a state-of-the-art ERP distribution software to keep communications and information flowing between various stakeholders while streamlined processes keep the systems running. Employees can then help retrieve, bundle, pack, and ship products at incredible speed.

Their distribution—or fulfillment centers, as they call them—are a miracle of human-machine collaboration. Amazon has over 70 in the United States and more than 150 worldwide. Some are still run primarily by humans with some help from technology. Others are highly sophisticated, with robots and people working side by side, each contributing their respective strengths. They are constantly growing and evolving.

Amazon Distribution RoboticsAmazon had been experimenting with a variety of robotics and automated, mechanized processes in their fulfillment centers for years. They were particularly taken with the compact orange Kiva robots. They liked them so much that, in true Amazon style, the retailer bought the company in 2012.

Wanting to retain the competitive advantage, they do not sell the robots to any other companies; they are for Amazon’s exclusive use. Other large distribution centers are left scrambling to find suppliers to provide similar technologies in less time.

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While the staff numbers at Amazon are increasing at a rapid pace, so too are their robots. At last count, there were over 45,000 and counting. At the moment, the Kivas work alongside the human warehouse staff. These robots, along with other automated technologies, assist in locating and transporting products, packaging, addressing and sending them to the appropriate distribution providers.

Humans are still very much in demand as Amazon continues to expand exponentially, just as people are still better at picking the products off the shelves and certain other steps along the way. The robots, for now, have difficulty with the fine manipulation required on the smaller items. With improvements in computer chips, smarter algorithms, and upgraded sensors, the machines are becoming more accurate, safer, cheaper and able to learn new tasks in less time.

Robots are continually evolving and will soon be more efficient than their human colleagues who will eventually be there simply to fix glitches in the workflow. How soon this will happen is anyone’s guess. Ultimately, they will improve accuracy, speed, and productivity per square foot of warehouse space.

For now, robots speed the process up by working closely with humans and saving them the several miles each would walk on a typical day getting inventory from one part of the center to the next. As the stock is removed from the mobile shelving systems, some restock them with precision while their fellow machines take the ordered items in yellow and black crates to be packaged and sent off.

The shelves are robotic and make maximum use of space. As shelves empty, they either move over to a packer or the products come to the empty shelf by a robot.

Into the FutureThe future of these and other distribution centers will, for the foreseeable future, always have a place for people to work alongside the machines, with the software running things behind the scenes. Over time, robots will replace more of the mundane, repetitive functions and humans will have to adapt to remain useful.

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4: ENVIRONMENT | All American Environment

13 Ways to Clean the Air in Your HomeNot many people consider air quality when thinking about their home environment. There are potential sources of air pollution in almost every room in your home. It is a very important aspect and a high contributing factor to our health. Indoor air quality can be five times more polluted than the outdoors. Many of us suffer from asthma and allergies which could be caused by the air we breathe. Poor air quality is a “hidden” concern that we should be made aware of.

There are so many factors that decrease air quality that you do not realize, from dust, dust mites, pet hair, pet dander, pollen and of course cigarette smoke. These things should be of concern especially during the winter months when windows are closed and the air is not flowing freely. Below is a list of things you may not be aware of that can be polluting the air you breathe. Cigarette SmokeAmongst the most deadly is cigarette smoke, first hand and second hand. It is a known fact that cigarette smoke puts all people at a higher risk of health problems.

Air Conditioner UnitsCleaning regularly is important to reduce dust mites, mold and mildew. Dirty air conditioner units is the most common form of poor air quality in homes. It is important to ventilate and use de-humidifiers.

Car Idling In The GarageSound Silly? Absolutely Not! This remits very dangerous levels of pollution directly into your home. Stop Idling Your Car In The Garage!

Carbon MonoxideThis is an odorless gas which claims over 400 lives per year and sickens thousands. It is important to install a carbon monoxide detector which can be purchased for around $30. It is simple and easy to install. Check the readings. If they are above 10 parts per million contact your utility company immediately. Your gas stove or furnace may not be working properly.

Radon GasKnown as the silent killer. It is odorless, invisible and found in many homes. It is important to get your home checked for this lethal silent killer. It is found in soil and rock and only can be found by testing. These testing kits can be purchased for around $35 and will let you know if gas is present. If found you may have to seal up cracks in your foundation.

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PaintHave you recently painted the rooms in your home? Beware! Even though the walls are fully dried gases can be omitted for months after. These gases are highly toxic. Try to open your windows as much as possible for months later. Also prior to 1978 homes were painted with lead paint. For those living in older homes beware of paint chipping or chalking.

PetsWe all love our adorable pets but do you realize their saliva, urine, feces that is brought in daily from the outdoors can cause many pet allergies. The pollutants that lurk outside can very easily be transported in from our loved pets.

MoldRain and humidity bring about mold. Cracks and leaks can help to aggravate the problem. Mold problems can cause coughing, wheezing, and asthma.

AsbestosDo you live in an older home? It may be time to get your home checked for asbestos. These tiny fibers inhaled are known to cause lung cancer.

Toxic ProductsHome cleaning, personal hygiene, outside yard pesticides and more can all contribute to poor indoor air quality. Our shoes and pets can bring in the outdoor particles as we add them ourselves with the use of our cleaning and personal products. Just make sure when using open the windows and keep the room well ventilated.

Wood StovesFor those who keep warm and want to save money by using wood stoves to heat their homes, the smoke causes fine particle pollutions. It is important to keep the home extremely well ventilated.

Carpeting vs Tile or Wood FlooringBelieve it or not, carpeting can harbor many pollutants such as pet dander, dust mites, fungi and more. Vacuuming is not always the end all because vacuuming can stir up the pollutants and make them airborne. A vacuum with a HEPA-filter traps smaller particles that other vacuums send back into the air. Tile or wood flooring would be the preferred choice to lessen air pollution.

Vent FansMake sure your vent fans in kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms are working properly. Proper ventilation can help to eliminate some airborne contaminants.

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Simple Ways to Reduce Heating Bills This WinterYour heating bills could be the biggest energy-related expense in your home. It’s estimated that approximately 40-50% of energy bills for a home in cooler parts of the country are accumulated through heating expenses.

However, it’s possible to cut down the amount you pay for your heating costs even while your home remains at a comfortable temperature. Here are some simple things you can do to help reduce the cost of heating bills.

Thermostat ControlThe American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) estimates that American households could save an estimated 14% off their heating bill by turning down the thermostat. Far too many homes run their heating at higher temperatures than is really required.

Yet if you were to turn down the thermostat by 10 degrees when you go to bed or when you leave the house to go to work, you’re saving money. Even when you’re at home, think about turning down the regular temperature you have your heating set at.

For each degree you reduce your thermostat, you could potentially save around 2% off your heating bill. As an example, by turning down your thermostat from 70F to 65F you could potentially save around 10% off your normal heating costs.

Regular MaintenanceUnmaintained heaters tend to use far more energy to generate heat, driving the cost of your bills higher than they need to be. Regular maintenance can help to keep your heating system operating more efficiently.

If your heating system uses filters, keep them clean and well-maintained. If you have an old furnace or boiler heating your home, consider whether it’s worth upgrading to a more energy-efficient heating alternative

If you have an oil tank it is imperative that you find the right reputable company so as to get the system working properly in order to maximize savings. All American Environmental is a leader in the NJ heating oil tank business who provides high-quality oil tank cleaning and service. When you use the best company you will see a reduction when you are striving to reduce heating bills.

Improve InsulationYour home’s windows can be a huge source of heat loss. There’s no point paying hefty heating bills through winter if the heat you generate is escaping through small gaps around windows. Even the small gaps beneath your doors can be a source of heat loss.

Spend a few dollars to install weather strips to doors to help block those leaks. If your existing weatherstrips are worn, replace them. Block any drafty leaks around window frames or on chimney flashing. If you don’t use your fireplace, think about closing the chimney flue and block the small gaps around the flue with an inflatable chimney balloon.

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Check out what’s happening behind the cover plates for your electrical boxes in any external walls. The areas behind electrical boxes often don’t have insulation placed around them correctly, making them ideal locations for warm air to escape and cold air to get into the house. You can buy inexpensive foam gaskets to fit around outlets that you can’t see once the cover plate is put back, but they’ll have a positive effect on reducing drafts.

Look for ways to eliminate leaks so heat can’t escape, but also to reduce the amount of cold air that can get in. Fixing the smallest gaps can help to reduce heating bills overall.

Furnishings and CurtainsEven your choice of curtains and blinds can play a part in helping to reduce your heating bills. Thicker curtains can act as a great layer of insulation and can stop the amount of heat that escapes through windows at night.

Likewise, if you have furniture placed in front of vents or duct openings you could be reducing your heater’s effectiveness. Be sure that heat is able to flow freely into each room without obstruction.

There are plenty of simple things you can do to help reduce your heating bills this winter. Take a closer look around your home and see what measures you can take to improve heating efficiency. You’ll be surprised at how much you could save.

Resources to Reduce Heating Bills:aceee.orgenergy.gov/eere/office-energy-efficiency-renewable-energy

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10 Main Types of PollutionFirst, “What is pollution?” Pollution is the entrance of toxic or harmful substances into the environment. The ecosystem is significantly disturbed by pollution, and over time, it can affect animals, plants, and people.

There are 10 types of pollution and their causes vary. When you’re aware of the classes of pollution in the world and your environment, you may be able to take precautionary measures to safeguard your community.

Pharmaceutical PollutionThis type is prevalent in the water and is then transferred to medications, drugs and antibiotics that we use that contain estrogen. This can change the bodily functions of men and women and cause tissue damage. This type is also present in drinking water.

Visual PollutionVisual pollution is caused by watching unpleasant or undesirable situations and inflicting damage on the eyes. For instance, looking at construction sites or advertising boards with very bright lights can lower eye function and cause vision problems later in life.

Agricultural PollutionThis form is seen mostly on farms and occurs when farmers use fertilizers and pesticides with harsh chemicals that affect insects, people, and animals.

Thermal PollutionThermal pollution comes from drastic changes in temperature. This can kill or damage animals that live in the water and changes the air quality for humans, animals, and plants.

Soil PollutionSoil becomes polluted because of the excessive use of manmade pesticides. These are then transferred into or onto the food we eat. With so many homes and business using oil tanks for heat, this can be a large part of soil pollution. Your property’s oil tank can leak harmful substances into the ground and atmosphere.

Radioactive PollutionRadioactive pollution is caused by nuclear power plant waste. This gets into the water. Humans and animals then consume traces of this pollution regularly.

Noise PollutionNoise pollution can cause an interruption in life. Stress and cardiovascular issues can also result, especially if you live and/or work in an environment where there are many loud noises.

Manmade PollutionThis pollution causes severe health problems. When toxins get into the air, it can lead to allergies, asthma and other breathing concerns. Smoking is an example of manmade pollution.

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Water PollutionPeople dumping trash or factories transferring chemical waste into the water affects the animals and contaminates the water we use.

Air PollutionThis is the most common form of pollution and it occurs every day. It is caused by gas emissions from cars, exhaust from power plants, and smoking. The improper disposal of trash can also put toxins into the air.

By creating new habits, such as eating organic foods, becoming smoke-free and driving cars that don’t produce harmful emissions, you can help combat the sources and effects of environmental pollution.

If you think you have or are causing environmental pollution on your property contact All American Environmental for more information.

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5: Graphics | Hawk Graphics

How to Put My Logo on ProductsExperts in marketing say brand identity is the key to a company’s success. What better way to promote a brand than by using custom logo products. Printing your logo on marketing materials, promotional products, and stationery is one of the easiest and best ways to get your message out and be recognized in a highly competitive market environment.

Boosting Your VisibilityNo matter how good your product or how dynamic your company, if it goes unnoticed by potential customers, it can never succeed. Boosting its visibility by creating an eye-catching and memorable logo will raise your business’ profile and ensure your brand stands out.

Staying Engaged with CustomersCustomer engagement is the order of the day. Customized giveaways and gifts will guarantee your company’s brand is constantly in the public eye. You can put your logo on anything, from water bottles to clocks, and shopping bags to T-shirts, and you’ll be keeping the company/customer dialogue going long after the initial contact has been made. With a huge variety of promotional products to choose from, it’s easy to match the perfect items to your specific campaign.

What Can I Put My Company’s Logo On?The list of items that can carry your company’s logo is endless. Of course, some are obvious – stationary and business cards. However, some are much less common, and these could be the perfect choice.

Corporate gifts have been around for years. Pens, notebooks, and magnets were some of the top items distributed. These remain popular, not only because they prominently display the company logo, but because they are also useful. The more they are used, the more your logo is seen by potential customers.

Different items have different purposes. For example, building awareness of your brand at a trade show or convention can be achieved effectively by using customized coffee mugs. Logo-printed tote bags will accomplish brand recall every time they are used.

Items that can be reused and are perceived to have a high value will always be the best choices to promote a brand. It is important to choose the right item to suit the target audience. It is also essential to stay within the marketing budget.

Customizing A LogoIf your company doesn’t have a logo yet or needs a logo makeover, Hawk Graphics can help create an eye-catching and memorable design. Hawk Graphics is capable of providing unique products for any company and can tailor promotional materials for any event.

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Getting Your Logo Out ThereIn the past, producing customized items were expensive and difficult. But, now, you can put your logo on anything. There is an enormous range of products that both slogans and logos can be put on quickly and easily. Logo-bearing promotional items are the perfect way to convey your message. And, they fit into any budget. There are many ways of putting logos on products:

• Heat transfer• Silkscreen• Etch or laser engraving• Embroidery• Debossing• Pad Print• Digital Laminate Panel

Choosing the Right Promotional Product is Key!Of course, not every method is suitable for all items, and not everyone is as cost-effective. Choosing the right one to suit your company’s needs is essential.

When you need your company’s logo to be noticed and need help with the question “how to put my logo on products”, contact Hawk Graphics, Inc for an affordable, reliable, and professional solution to boosting your visibility and keeping your brand in the public eye.

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Best Printing Services Near MeAre you on the internet and typing in on your keyboard ‘best printing service near me”? Finding reliable printing services in NJ and in other states is high on the agenda of most organizations and companies. Whether businesses need to produce flyers, calling cards, brochures or promotional materials for their products or services, individuals and businesses need to know how to find a company that can do the job to the highest professional standards in a short amount of time.

While it is simple to go online and look for “printers near me,” there is no guarantee the results will be the top performers in the area. However, Hawk Graphics is a New Jersey printing company with a strong heritage and great reputation. Hawk Graphics Inc. does not only service New Jersey, they service the entire 48 contiguous US states.

For more than 30 years, Hawk Graphics has built its business based on the principles of excellent service and high quality. It is known as one of the best commercial printing companies NJ has to offer.

A Commercial Printing SolutionHaving a strong brand identity has never been more important than in the modern age. Being able to compete in a crowded marketplace means you must have flawlessly printed catalogs, brochures, business cards, and headed stationary that all carry the company logo. They must effortlessly and seamlessly promote the brand in a streamlined marketing approach. Hawk Graphics offers commercial print solutions to suit every business, with both traditional offset and digital printing, and it uses the most cutting-edge equipment.

Bringing Visions to LifeCreativity is the key to any successful project, and adding unique touches and special effects can make all the difference. Hawk Graphics knows the importance of creating the right impression with an eye-catching print. Using wide-format printers, it’s possible to make stunning posters, wall banners, backdrops, and displays that will help get any product or service noticed.

Speed, Quality, and ConvenienceIn today’s busy business world, streamlining operations and making the process of ordering printed supplies as simple as possible is essential. Time is of the essence, and convenience and speed, without ever compromising on quality, is vital. Making use of a custom-ordering platform and an inventory-control facility, such as that offered by Hawk Graphics, ensures a continuous supply of marketing materials is maintained to minimize waste and maximize profits.

Making Brands MemorableSince branding is the key to the success of any contemporary business, delivering a high-impact message with striking campaigns and well-designed marketing materials is crucial. A clear and coordinated look is vital, and using the services of a creative team, such as the one at Hawk Graphics, is the easiest way to stand out from the crowd.

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Promoting Within BudgetProducing affordable promotional products that will create a lasting impression without eating into the profits is a key part of any marketing strategy. Hawk Graphics can simplify the task of designing and creating unique and eye-catching items. Whether for a meeting, an event, a trade show or a loyalty program, Hawk Graphics’ enormous range of items is sure to convey the brand in the most professional and memorable way.

Do it right!Ensure your company makes the right impression for all the right reasons by choosing Hawk Graphics for your professional, high-quality printing services in New Jersey and beyond.

Are you still typing on your keyboard “best printing services near me”? Type no more and Contact Hawk Graphics Inc. We are sure to please!

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Digital Printing Advantages and DisadvantagesFor any business, getting your materials professionally printed is an important part of giving your company a trustworthy and reliable image. Whether it’s a brochure, a business card, an event flyer, or another project, your printed materials are often the first impression your business makes on a potential customer. So, while the printing may seem like a minor detail, it can go a long way toward earning you a customer’s vote of confidence. However, there are a few different methods that can be used for professional printing – primarily digital or traditional offset. So, how do you know which one is right for you? Our experts at Hawk Graphics are here to offer you a bit more insight into the pros and cons of digital printing.

Specialty Printing Advantages and DisadvantagesWhen you’re looking at specialty printing advantages and disadvantages, the quantity of the print job is an important factor to consider. Digital printing is more cost-effective for smaller quantities, but it’s less cost-effective for large quantities (such as jobs of 2,500 copies or more). If you’re in need of a fast turnaround, digital printing is the way to go, regardless of the quantity.

Commercial Digital Printing Advantages and DisadvantagesAnother advantage is the flexibility it offers. Digital printing allows you to make changes to your artwork throughout the printing process. For example, if you are printing direct mail pieces and you want to print the names and addresses on one side, you can do this seamlessly with digital printing. The digital process also offers you more flexibility in the materials you can print on. While there are disadvantages of digital printing on fabric, you still have a lot more choices with digital printing than you do with traditional offset printing.

As versatile as commercial digital printing may be, it does have its disadvantages that need to be weighed carefully. First, the color quality is not as high as it is in offset printing. Digital printing uses a CMYK system – a unique combination of cyan, magenta, yellow, and black to get as close to every color in your artwork as possible. Offset printing, on the other hand, uses the Pantone color system to match colors with precision.

Another disadvantage with digital printing is that the color isn’t absorbed into the paper in the same way that it would be in offset printing. This means that when printed areas are cut or folded, it can leave cracks in the ink. As a result, digital printing may be a less desirable option for brochures, greeting cards, and other folded items.

Finding The Perfect Solution is ImportantIn the world of commercial printing, our goal at Hawk Graphics is to help every client find the perfect solution to truly make their business the best that it can be, and part of this involves laying out the pros and cons of each printing method we have available. To find out which printing options are best for your next piece of marketing collateral, contact us at HawkGraphics for some professional guidance and an expert touch in the most professional and memorable way.

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6: CASINOS | Top Casino Picks

How to Bet on Sports in Las VegasFor a newcomer, the idea of betting in the largest casino city on the planet can seem like a very daunting task indeed. Well, fear not. This small guide aims to give you a slightly more informed look into the world of Vegas sports betting and show you exactly what to do and how to bet when you’re there. By the end of this article, you’ll be desperately rushing to the airport trying to book yourself tickets on the next flight to Nevada!

Auto RacingAuto racing has exploded in popularity within the last few years and the attraction around it continues to grow, making auto racing a necessary field of betting when in Vegas. The structure of betting on auto racing is similar to the structure of betting on golf. That means that the most basic wager simply requires you to pick the winner of a race. Usually, sportsbooks list around 20 or more individual racers along with a field option (the other drivers on the grid). These have various odds, of course, depending on the event and driver notoriety/track record.

A simple example of how auto-racing betting works is as follows:

Jeff Gordon could be listed at 4-1 odds; Burton at 15-1, and Casey Atwood at 100-1. Let’s say you bet $10 on Burton at 15-1, and he wins the race, you would win $150, as well as get your $10 back, thus earning a total payout of $160.

Some venues in Vegas also offer auto racing matchup propositions where two drivers are pitted against each other in a sort of head-to-head wager and a betting line is applied to each driver by the oddsmaker. The driver who has the better finish at the end of the race wins the matchup.

Some sportsbooks venues in Vegas can also post some unusual auto-racing propositions. One such unusual proposition is the over/under on the number of cautions that occur during the race. Another unusual proposition is which car manufacturer (Dodge, Ford, etc.) will end up winning the race. Betting lines can easily be found on NASCAR races and can be found on other open-wheel circuits.

BaseballAnother incredibly popular sport in the Vegas sportsbooks, as well as in the United States as a whole, is baseball. To bet on baseball, simply tell the ticket writer at the venue which team you wish to bet on (via a corresponding team number posted at the venue) then tell him or her the amount that you wish to wager. Simply put, if the team you have wagered on wins the game, you win. The payout will, of course, vary in value depending on the odds that have been posted by the particular venue.

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Baseball odds are usually shown by using a “money line.” The money line is as follows:

The odds for a game are based on a $1 value. A minus sign (-) before the team number indicates that the team is a current favorite. A plus sign (+) before the team number indicates the team is currently viewed as an underdog.

“Dimelines” are sometimes used by some sportsbook venues in Vegas, but they are rapidly getting phased out because sportsbooks want to make a larger profit in what is usually considered the slowest betting season of the year. However, several sportsbooks do still offer dimelines, so you should make sure you know which line your chosen venue is using.

Baseball betting can be much more complicated depending on what you choose to bet on, such as over/under and baseball parlays. Therefore, make sure that you do your homework and take a thorough look through the various different rules of play if you wish to bet on anything other than a specific team winning a specific match or event.

BasketballBetting on basketball is, in essence, very similar to betting on baseball. Simply tell the ticket writer at your chosen venue the number of the team that you wish to bet on and the amount you wish to wager.

The payout is usually set at the odds of 10/11, meaning that a wager of $11 would gain you $10 and grant you a return of $21 overall. Where baseball and basketball betting differ, however, is in the area of a point spread. If you decide to bet on basketball, you must also tell the ticket writer at your chosen venue the point spread of the team that you have chosen. The point spread is a term used to indicate the number of points a team can either win or lose by. It’s usually a specific and predetermined margin. This whole process, betting on a specific team, point spread, and game, is known as a straight bet – the common term in the world of sports betting and is a term that you should remember if you wish to make bets of any sport.

The Best Places to Bet on Sports in VegasThere are a vast number of sports-betting locations in Vegas, as to be expected. One of the best is Lagasse’s Stadium at The Palazzo Las Vegas. This venue offers fine dining, the best possible service and an exceptional drinks menu to top it off. There are plenty of screens to watch the sports on which you have wagered. Another top pick is the Sportsbook at Caesars Palace. This venue provides screens at every table and has huge 50-inch plasma screens sitting high on the walls, letting you sit back and relax while you watch your favorite sports unfold before your eyes. Situated right next to the poker room, you can easily go between them to play a little poker while you watch your bet come to fruition.

Hopefully, this small guide has given you some insight in how to place a sports bet in Vegas and, hopefully, you can take this knowledge with you should you ever happen to be in the greatest casino capital of the world. You might as well try and make a little more money while you’re there!

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How Big Data is Affecting GamblingYou may take one look at this headline and shake your head in complete bewilderment. What is big data? How can it affect the world of gambling? Well, we’re here to answer these questions and give you a clear picture of what exactly big data analysis is and how it could affect something you love.

What is it?Big data analysis is the collection of millions of pieces of data that can vary wildly. These pieces of data can be anything from customer preferences to general market trends. These figures are then analyzed on a mass scale and a correlation is drawn between it all.

This then informs retailers and other businesses that they need to create more direct and specific forms of marketing. For example, if you bought a bicycle from an online retailer, that information would then be processed instantly and sent to online retailers. They will see your purchase and will try to sell you products based on your recent purchase, such as a bike pump. This is all done within a matter of moments.

This process of big data analysis can easily be applied to the world of online gambling because online casino sites are able to monitor exactly which games you play and cater your future experiences around your past play times. For instance, if you frequently played the slots at one particular online casino site, you may see more advertisements appear for that site on completely unrelated websites, such as a social media platform. It may advertise other slot machines similar to the ones you have played previously.

Who Benefits from Big Data Analysis?While on the surface this may all sound pretty creepy and invasive, this technology can greatly improve someone’s experience of online gambling. For example, a veteran player may be sick of trawling through countless screens of many different games to find the one that he or she is used to playing. Instead, it is much easier to simply click a link that has been provided by the analysis of big data.

This saves a lot of time and hassle and can really improve a veteran player’s experience. Similarly, longtime players may be looking for a change of scenery every now and then. Therefore, having catered advertisements for different games of a similar genre that the player is used to can be very handy.

Of course, the online site itself benefits greatly from the use of big data analysis because it can maintain its player count over a long period of time by advertising specifically to each individual punter and offering him or her something that will keep his or her attention on an individual scale. These big data analytics can also inform a company of what it should do in terms of promotions and offers, therefore, mutually benefiting both the company and the consumer.

The company keeps the engagement of the current player base while the consumer enjoys the rewards and promotions the company has created based on the analytics of big data gambling.

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How Big Data is Affecting Gambling (Cont.)

Acts as ProtectionIn fact, some uses of big data analysis even go so far as to protect the player from himself or herself. Tracking programs, such as PlayScan and Observer, use a variety of behavioral sciences, mathematics, psychology, and artificial intelligence to detect whether a player is at risk of developing a gambling addiction. Players who frequently show signs that are commonplace of someone with a gambling addiction will be issued an advanced warning that will detail his or her behavior and what he or she can do about it. If the player continues to behave in a similar pattern, then he or she may even have his or her accounts automatically suspended or closed if the problem persists.

Of course, this is an incredible service and a great insight into players themselves because they are highly unlikely to realize they are falling into a trap. The players can then seek proper professional help after receiving this warning and, hopefully, this will be a step in the right direction for them.

What About Data Protection?You may be wondering now, what about my data protection? Shouldn’t I have a say in what can and can’t be seen? Unfortunately, that is a big problem right now. The recent testimony of Mark Zuckerberg before a congressional committee just goes to show that even our social media accounts have no privacy whatsoever. It seems that today, any activity on the Internet, no matter how innocent, can be monitored and recorded for the purposes of someone else’s financial gain.

Facebook was used to advertise products that are similar to your likes. Big data sports betting is used to constantly advertise the next race or event. Many companies simply ignore data protection laws because they are not often checked, especially in places where online gambling sites are set up, such as Malta and Antigua.

Is It All Worth It?The topic of big data analysis is a highly debated one and a subject that will not be forgotten any time soon. It seems as though every corner of the Internet is benefitting from this in some form or another. So the likelihood of it just vanishing one day is zero. And, while, it does have its benefits in the form of a fully catered and individual experience for each player, do they outweigh the numerous consequences that arise when dealing with data analysis on an incomprehensible level?

This is definitely a subject that needs wider discussions and an area that needs to be more closely monitored and surveyed. Laws may need to be changed or reshaped, but they must be changed quickly. It is impossible for laws to catch up with the rapid rise of technology, which seems to never take a break when finding new ways to provide us with services or finding new ways to take our money. While big data analysis may be a blessing for some, it could easily be a curse for others.

For more information on our content marketing services or to request further samples in other industries, please contact us today.

Click https://www.varcimedia.com/contact/to get a custom quote today.