Void Android?

More than one billion Android devices around the world are vulnerable to attack by hackers because they are no longer supported by security updates and built-in protection, new research by Which? has found.

The consumer champion crunched Google data, which shows a staggering two in five (40%) Android users worldwide are no longer receiving vital security updates from Google, potentially putting them at risk of data theft, ransom demands and a range of other malware attacks that could leave them facing bills for hundreds of pounds.

The findings come as Which? adds warnings to its reviews of potentially affected smartphones – which are not necessarily old models and are still available to buy through online marketplaces – so consumers are aware of the risk.

Which? experts took a selection of affected phones and tablets into its labs, including handsets still available to buy from online marketplaces such as Amazon, and found they could easily be hit by a range of malware and other threats.

Researchers tested a range of phones including models from Motorola, Samsung, Sony and LG/Google and found vulnerability to hacks including enabling personal information to be stolen, a hacker to take complete control over the phone or large bills for services that the phone owner hasn’t used themselves.

Recently out-of-support devices won’t immediately have problems, but without security updates, the risk to the user of being hacked goes up exponentially. Generally speaking, the older the phone, the greater the risk.

Anyone using an Android phone released around 2012 or earlier – including popular models like the Samsung Galaxy S3 and Sony Xperia S, should be especially concerned, since it’s likely they will be running a version of Android that does not include various security enhancements Google has been rolling out since.

Google declined to respond when Which? asked for data on how many UK users are likely to be affected. But the consumer champion estimates there could potentially be millions of old unsupported Android devices still in use in the UK.

Which? shared its findings with Google but the tech giant’s response failed to provide reassurance that it has plans in place to help users whose devices are no longer supported.

Which? is calling for far more transparency around how long updates for smart devices will be provided so consumers can make informed buying decisions. The industry must also do a better job of giving support and guidance to customers about their options once security updates are no longer available.

Proposed legislation for mandatory security requirements – putting the onus on manufacturers to provide clear information about how long security updates will be provided for – and strong enforcement for manufacturers, retailers and online marketplaces that fall short are essential to tackle the growing problem of digital obsolescence.

Which? believes Google and other manufacturers also have questions to answer about the environmental impact of phones that can only be supported for three years or less – meaning consumers frequently need to fork out hundreds of pounds to replace them, while old phones end up piled up in landfill.

Kate Bevan, Which? Computing editor, said: “It’s very concerning that expensive Android devices have such a short shelf life before they lose security support – leaving millions of users at risk of serious consequences if they fall victim to hackers.

“Google and phone manufacturers need to be upfront about security updates – with clear information about how long they will last and what customers should do when they run out.

“The government must also push ahead with planned legislation to ensure manufacturers are far more transparent about security updates for smart devices – and their impact on consumers.”

Which? Tips

My Android phone is working fine, so why should I ditch it?

If your Android device is more than two years old, check if it can be updated to a newer version of Android. Open your phone or tablet Settings app, then tap System > Advanced > System update. You can then see your Android version.

If you are on a version before Android 7.0 Nougat, try to update your system. Still in the System update section, follow the instructions to run the update.

If you can’t update to a newer version, you’ll need to consider that there will be an increased risk of using your device going forwards – especially if you are running a version of Android 4 or lower.

What should I do if my mobile phone is no longer updated?

The older the phone, the greater the risk. Anyone with a smartphone that runs Android 4 or earlier should seriously consider whether it’s worth the risk to their data and privacy to continue using the device. However, there is an increased risk to any device that is no longer being supported by security updates. If you are still using such a phone, carefully consider the following advice until you upgrade.

1. Be careful what you download: The majority of threats come from downloading apps from outside the Google Play store, so be very wary of that. If you do sideload an app, check carefully that it is official and always manually re-enable the ‘unknown sources’ block in your Android settings after you’re finished. This is done automatically in newer Android versions.

2. Watch what you click on: As well as traditional phishing threats that might arrive via email, variations on these threats can be sent to a phone via SMS or MMS messages to take advantage of vulnerabilities found on some older versions of Android. Be very wary of clicking on any links that look suspicious, especially if they are from senders you’re not familiar with.

3. Back up your data: Make sure all your data is backed up in at least two places (a hard drive and a cloud service). If something goes wrong and you do get infected, this will help to ensure you won’t lose access to anything vital.

4. Get mobile antivirus: There are a range of additional apps that can provide some protection for your older Android device against security threats. Bear in mind, though, that the choice might be limited for really old Android builds. We could barely find any reputable services for the Sony Xperia Z2 running Android 4.4.

Which? advice guide for people who are using phones that no longer receive security updates: https://www.which.co.uk/reviews/mobile-phones/article/mobile-phone-security-is-it-safe-to-use-an-old-phone

Alex Salmond set to stand trial on sex offence charges

Alex Salmond stands trial today on allegations that he sexually assaulted ten  women while serving as Scotland’s First Minister. Mr Salmond will face 14 charges at the High Court in Edinburgh this morning.

The charges – which the former First Minister says he will vigorously defend –  include allegations of ten sexual assaults, two indecent assaults, one attempted rape and an assault with intent to rape.

Mr Salmond has pled not guilty to all charges and the trial before judge Lady Dorrian is expected to last for four weeks.

Coronavirus: Workplace advice

New guidance on coronavirus (COVID-19) has been published that includes workplace advice.

It contains guidance for non-healthcare settings, including tips that apply to people working in hotels and hospitality, leisure facilities, entertainment venues and premises used by community groups.

It has general basic hygiene measures and advice from Health Protection Scotland on preventing the spread of infection and includes:

• routine cleaning and disinfection of frequently touched objects and surfaces such as telephones, keyboards, door handles, desks and tables

• basic hand washing highlighted as the most effective way of preventing the spread of infection. Hand hygiene promoted by ensuring staff, contractors, service users and visitors have access to hand washing facilities and alcohol-based hand rub, where available

• crockery and cutlery in shared kitchen areas should be cleaned with warm water and detergent and dried thoroughly

• ensuring food such as crisps and sandwiches should not be left open for communal sharing unless individually wrapped

Fiona Hyslop, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Fair Work and Culture, said: “This publication has been circulated following general guidance on basic preventative measures against coronavirus and specific guidance for educational settings.

“It contains clear, practical guidance that will ensure workplace staff have the latest information about COVID-19 and how we can all help prevent it from spreading.

“We are well-prepared for an outbreak in Scotland, but the public has a vital role to play in helping us contain any positive cases by keeping themselves informed, and following basic hygiene precautions.

“That includes hand-washing, not touching their faces unless their hands are clean and covering their nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing then putting the tissue in the bin.”

A copy of COVID-19 Guidance for Non- Healthcare Settings can be found here.

Further additional guidance and information, including links to guidance for travellers and the general public, can also be found on HPS’ COVID-19 page.

The latest numbers of test results are published at 2pm each day on the Scottish Government website.

Common symptoms of coronavirus include:

• high temperature or fever
• cough
• shortness of breath

Updates on public health advice for coronavirus can be found on the NHS Inform website, and a free helpline has been set up for those who do not have symptoms but are looking for general health advice: 0800 028 2816.

For anyone who is planning to travel abroad, guidance can be found on fitfortravel. Where a COVID-19 risk is identified, country pages will be updated.

1_COVID-19-Guidance-for-non-healthcare-settings

Dogs Trust’s Dog School takes the lead!

  • Number of overall dogs attending classes increases by 12% each year
  • In 2019 562 puppies attended classes at Dog School Edinburgh
  • In January this year the team have already had 100 puppies attend classes

Dogs Trust Dog School in Edinburgh, which launched in Scotland in 2017, has gone from strength-to-strength, celebrating its most successful start to the year so far.

The team has trained 100 puppies in January alone this year, which is already a quarter of the total number of puppies they would normally see in a full year!

Year-on-year the total number of dogs trained by the Dog School Edinburgh team has increased by an average of 30% – from 346 dogs trained in 2017 to 974 dogs trained in 2019. Due to such popular demand, the team is now running 20 classes every week across Edinburgh.

Dog Trust Dog School was launched to help owners build life-long bonds with their dogs, by developing a good understanding of dog behaviour and training techniques to avoid the common pitfalls that can lead to problem behaviours.

Amongst the newest graduates are two three-month-old siblings, whose families had no idea they would be attending the same class together. When the two Golden Retrievers, Willow and Teddy, attended their first class, they instantly recognised each other. Their owners couldn’t believe how similar the dogs looked and after a brief chat they realised their pets were related.

Teddy’s owner, Lily, said: “When we heard Willow’s name being called out, we thought surely this couldn’t be Teddy’s sister?! It was such a lovely surprise to find out they were from the same family and they clearly loved being reunited with one another.

“Classes are relaxed and fun for both owner and dog; and there are opportunities to socialise your puppy with other dogs. We got to learn all about dog behaviour and how they feel in relation to the way they act. This was very beneficial as it has given us the building blocks to continue her reward-based training at home, while we look to advance her training further at Dog School’s adolescent classes later this year.”

Dog School’s growing success has been supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery through charitable funding to Dogs Trust.

Six years ago, People’s Postcode Lottery set out to support the charity in their vision to improve the dog welfare landscape in the UK and have a lasting impact for millions of dogs.

Louise, Willow’s owner, said: “Willow and Teddy are so alike, not only in appearance but also their mannerisms too. Training was great, especially for our kids because they were over the moon that Willow was taking part in classes with her sister.

“The whole experience was really beneficial for us because our coaches were very approachable, and no question ever felt silly. Having our kids there was also a great platform to help us all better understand why training is so important.

“We also learnt this will be especially true as Willow approaches adolescence; continuing training at home is vital as dogs can start to fall back on bad habits while reaching maturity.”

Julie Morrison, Head Coach at Dog School in Edinburgh, said: “Over the last couple of years, the number of dogs attending our classes has dramatically increased which is absolutely fantastic.

“We love helping to build strong bonds between pets and their owners as training is just as much about the owner as it is about instilling positive behaviours in dogs.

“It was fantastic to see Willow and Teddy socialising in class and they have come on so well! We look forward to hearing all about their progress at home.

“We are hugely grateful to players of People’s Postcode Lottery, whose funding has allowed us to invest in more specialist staff as demand for our classes continues to grow.”

If you would like to find out more about Dogs Trust Dog School in Edinburgh, please visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/dogschool or call 07388 375835 /  07920 658647.

Clinic for homeless people’s pets boosted by community fund

Student vets who provide free treatment to homeless people’s pets are among those benefitting from a university initiative that supports community ventures.

A grant of more than £2,000 will enable the Edinburgh-based All4Paws clinic to update its equipment to offer the best care possible for both animals and their owners.

People without a permanent home will be able to access basic treatments and supplies for their pets free-of-charge. They will also be offered advice to help them better manage their pet’s behaviour.

Since its launch in 2017, the University of Edinburgh Community Grant Scheme has awarded funding to more than 50 groups across Edinburgh and the Lothians. So far, the initiative has given out a total of £200,000.

All4Paws currently runs seven pop-up clinics every month at three locations across the city, including the Grassmarket and Leith.

James Campbell often takes his dog, Hope, to one of the clinics held at Grassmarket Community Project. James said: “The clinic is great. If it wasn’t here, we’d face serious problems trying to get anywhere. It’s a godsend.”

Abbie Lane, a veterinary student at the University of Edinburgh, said: “The community grant has enabled us to purchase some equipment needed to help set up our clinic on Spittal Street that was launched last year.

“This includes vital diagnostic equipment that will enable us to extend the breadth of our care.”

Lothian MSP, Miles Briggs said: “I congratulate All4Paws on being awarded this community fund to update it’s equipment to give the best possible care for animals and their owners.

“This is an excellent initiative that provides free Veterinary care for the pets of homeless people and allows Veterinary students to improve their practical skills.”

Further groups to benefit from the latest round of Community Grant Scheme funding include a youth work organisation that supports young people living in economically disadvantaged areas who struggle with secondary education.

About Youth provides 14 to 16 year olds with alternative learning opportunities and support them as they explore their next steps after leaving school.

Another youth group to receive university funding from the scheme is Intercultural Youth Scotland, a charity who provides specialist support and mentoring to Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic young people.

The Welcoming Association also received a grant to support its community choir for adult refugees, migrant and minority ethnic communities.

Others benefitting are a community centre that is building a sensory play area for children, a data literacy club and a club supporting young artists with a range of digital music and art workshops.

Podcast champions Scottish Voices for International Women’s Day

Scottish Pakistani Journalist, comedian and women’s rights advocate Zara Janjua launches inspirational podcast series featuring star-studded line-up for International Women’s Day 2020.

The second series of the Ask For More podcast features some of Scotland’s top business women alongside celebrities including Kaye Adams, Sharleen Spiteri, Kirsty Wark, Judy Murray and Jenni Falconer.

Each episode highlights key issues affecting women in life and in business, focussing on topics from ‘resilience’ and ‘philanthropy’ to ‘profile’. It aims to motivate and inspire listeners to be ambitious and achieve their goals.

Former STV presenter Zara Janjua said: “The best way to get motivated is to surround yourself with positive voices and to hear from people who have fulfilled their dreams. The more success is enforced, the more achievable it becomes.”

The 34-year-old ‘multi-hyphen’ presenter-producer-writer-comedian added: “This podcast offers a platform to share our experiences and speak honestly about our successes and our failures.

“Women are engineering a new future to better fit the shape of our lives. We are a nation of independent thinkers and it is time to regroup and navigate this world together.”

The first episode features tennis matriarch Judy Murray and CSR champion Diana Borland. They discuss how to create change and make an impact in the world with philanthropy.

Judy Murray said: “If we could all identify someone that we could put an arm around and mentor, to share advice and be a sounding board to, I think that would help an awful lot. It is lack of confidence in ourselves that stops us from taking that first step.”

Loose Woman anchor and Radio Scotland presenter Kaye Adams features on the ‘resilience’ themed episode alongside Marketing Executive Niki Hutchinson.

Kaye Adams said: “As women, we have a certain way of communicating, telling stories and sharing experiences that I think is quite special. I think it’s good to see that represented.” 

She added:“When I was younger I took myself a bit more seriously which actually was just nerves. You’re so worried about how the world sees you and how other people see you – you’re much more self-conscious.

“In radio you are on your own with the microphone. You can’t really be produced to the same level and you don’t have anything really to rely on apart from your wits and your voice.”

The second episode releases tomorrow (Monday 9 March) and features Lynne Kennedy MBE and BBC comedy star Ashley Storrie.

Ashley said: “I’m making a conscious effort now to praise other people and tell them how proud I am of them – especially other female comedians.

“I remember when my mother was coming up in comedy, there was often a feeling that other people’s success was somehow another person’s failure and I never want to be like that.

“I’ve made friends now from people who I barely knew just saying I’m so proud of how well you’ve done. As women we need to do more of that.”

Sponsored by The Royal Bank of Scotland, the podcast was first launched in November 2019 following the Rose Review by CEO Alison Rose. It aims to inspire women to start and grow businesses.

Subscribe now to the Ask For More Podcast on:

Acast: https://play.acast.com/s/askformore

iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/women-in-business-ask-for-more/id1487065308

Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/1DALMZwfAmuWWPexHChYQZ?si=K8GscaPsTwyRSdS9rr0Mlg

Join The ‘Ask For More’ Facebook Group

Women’s mental health hit by financial worries

Research shows women more likely to suffer from poor mental health than men thanks to heightened financial concerns – and young women hit worst

Women suffer from greater money worries than men, a study has shown this International Women’s Day.

Research has revealed that just under half (41%) of working women in the UK have money worries, a figure that dips significantly down to less than a third (32%) for men.

Statistically, the figure is also higher in younger women with 55 per cent of women aged 16-24 reporting money worries, and 53 per cent of those aged 25-34.

The recently reported research was carried out by Salary Finance, an employee financial wellbeing platform, and also revealed the shocking impact of these figures on women’s mental health.

The stats show that women with money worries are much more likely than their male counterparts with the same concerns to be suffering sleepless nights (51% to 43%), anxiety and panic attacks (62% versus 57%) and are more likely to have depression and suicidal thoughts (71% versus 65%).

These figures mean that when compared to those with no money worries women with financial concerns are over five times more likely to have anxiety and nearly seven times more likely to have depression. For men with financial worries, it is far less – they are 1.3 times more likely to say they’re suffering from anxiety and/or depression due to financial problems.

It’s also more likely that you will run out of money before pay day if you’re a woman, according to these statistics. Over a third (34%) of women are running out of money before pay day each month, compared to just under a quarter (24%) of men. Younger women were again much more highly impacted, being much more likely to run out of money before pay day.

Of course, the impact of maternity leave is keenly felt by the female workforce. Of those surveyed that took maternity or paternity leave, a massive 73 per cent of women said they took on additional debt as a result, compared to just 27 per cent of men. Yet resulting childcare costs did not cause significantly higher levels of stress for women.

Asesh Sarkar, CEO and co-founder of Salary Finance, commented: “In 2020 it’s disheartening to see such a discrepancy between financial wellbeing in men and women. Our extensive research has shown the crippling impact that money worries can have on the UK workforce, and see these figures that show women suffer much more.”

Although there were many differences the survey did reveal that there are no notable differences in the approach to savings between women and men, suggesting attitudes and behaviour play a far bigger role in saving habits than gender.

Another similarity between men and women was an apparent unwillingness to discuss their finances. This highlights a general attitude rather than a gender-specific issue.

Asesh added: “Whilst the figures show that women are suffering more as a result of poor financial wellbeing, it’s important to remember that financial stress and concerns affects a wide range of people, regardless of gender, age or salary. 

“There is a need to tackle the stigma attached to discussing financial concerns and this is where financial solutions in the workplace can help. It is therefore important for employers to take an interest in the financial health of their employees.

“Our research has shown that around 77 per cent of workers feel they can trust their employer when it comes to sharing personal information. This really highlights the role that employers can play when it comes to tackling the issue of poor financial wellbeing amongst the UK workforce.”

Historic figures stand together to tackle gender inequality

Three statues depicting important and pioneering women in Edinburgh, alongside a further 11 across Scotland, have been adorned with #GenerationEqual sashes in a show of solidarity towards gender equality ahead of International Women’s Day.

Working in partnership with local authorities, councillors and site owners throughout Scotland, The First Minister’s National Advisory Council on Women and Girls (NACWG) staged the progressive stunt to highlight the scarcity of statues celebrating women in history and their society-changing accomplishments, and drive forward the gender equality movement.

Putting a spotlight on some of the inspiring women already recognised in stone and steel, The NACWG embellished statues and sculptures in nine cities, towns, villages and burghs across Scotland, championing equality for all with the #GenerationEqual slogan – including the ‘Woman and Child’ statue at Festival Square, ‘The Dreamer’ statue in memory of Winifred Rushworth at George Square Gardens and the statue of social activist Helen Crummy in Craigmillar – which will remain in place throughout the weekend.

The NACWG is also urging members of the public to put a spotlight on the inspirational women they think should be commemorated for their achievements.

NACWG Co-Chair Louise Macdonald OBE, said: “For generations, our history has been written by one gender. One perspective, one vision, one half of the population. Half of our history is missing.

“We want to highlight this huge inequality by showcasing some of the statues that do exist and call for better recognition of the women who have made a lasting impact through their bravery, intelligence and actions.

“Women are not niche; we are half the world and 52% of the population in Scotland [as per Engender’s latest Sex and Power publication].”

Of the 828 statues recorded in the whole of the UK, only 174 of them are female – around one in five.

But that doesn’t tell the whole story. Looking just at named women rather than nameless female figures whittles the figure down even lower, to 80. In contrast, out of 534 statues of men, 422 of them are named.

Coinciding with Women’s History Month, the annual month-long celebration which highlights the contributions of women to events in history and contemporary society, The NACWG is  calling on members of the public to nominate modern day women who deserve to be recognised with a statue of their own, using the hashtag #GenerationEqual on social media.

Louise added: “We want to encourage conversation around societal change, challenge this underrepresentation and make women’s contributions to society more visible – especially those facing multiple discrimination – in politics, in sport, on boards, and even in the street.

“With so many inspiring accomplishments all too often overlooked, it’s time we paid homage to these amazing women making a difference in today’s society. We hope this activity inspires people of all age, race, gender, religion and belief to join the conversation.”

Earlier this year, The NACWG published its second annual report which included seven recommendations to the First Minister following its review of policy coherence and gender equality throughout 2019. At the NACWG Circle event on 29 January,

Ms Sturgeon advised that a full and considered response would follow, but outright accepted the recommendation to upscale the Equality Unit to a Equality, Human Rights and Inclusion Directorate and the Senior Officials and Leaders Group.

Recommendations in the latest report build on those made by The NACWG in its 2018 Report and Recommendations – of which, all eleven were subsequently accepted by Nicola Sturgeon – with the recommendations devised to work in tandem to drive forward the gender equality movement.

The NACWG 2019 report and recommendations can be found at: https://onescotland.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/NACWG-2019-Report-and-Recommendations.pdf

Have your say using #GenerationEqual on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook and follow @NACWGScot.

 

Replica guns stolen in Easter Drylaw

Police are appealing for information after an incident in the early hours of yesterday morning, when three men forced their way into a property in Easter Drylaw and stole a number of replica toy guns.

The incident took place around 00.20am. The three men were all described as being average build and height and were wearing dark clothing, with masks and their hoods up.

No one was harmed as a result and the five toy firearms are not deemed to pose a risk to the public.

Detective Inspector Adam Brown, from Edinburgh City CID, said: “We are appealing for anyone with any information about this incident to come forward and assist with our enquiries.

“While items such as these replica toy guns are commonplace, they could cause alarm if they’re seen being carried in public.

“The three men were seen running from the area with the guns in their hands, so if you saw this or anything suspicious, please get in touch. I’d also extend that request to anyone who has possibly been approached by individuals trying to sell replica weapons like this.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Police on 101, quoting incident 0075 of 7 March. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, if you wish to remain anonymous.