Tony's ramblings on Open Source Software, Life and Photography

suddenlink

Suddenlink is Watching You...

Published September 7, 2011, 1:59 pm | by tony

I just received this very interesting email from my cable Internet provider, Suddenlink:

Dear Customer:
In the last monthly cycle, your Internet account used 105.68 GB. That’s well above the typical monthly usage of up to 43.0 GB.

This situation could mean several things. For instance: a virus or "spyware" application might have infected your computer and started generating high levels of Internet traffic, or someone else might be using your Internet connection without your knowledge. To help guard against those issues, please consider the following steps.

  • If you have a wireless router, you may have unauthorized users logging onto your account. Ensure that your router is encrypted or password-protected by visiting the Web site of your router's manufacturer.
  • Viruses and spyware applications can, without your knowledge, generate excessive Internet traffic. Install and regularly update your computer’s security software to minimize the risk of your Internet connection being used by an outside party for unauthorized purposes. Suddenlink offers a free security package for qualifying customers. To learn more, visit: http://www.suddenlink.com/netsafety/mcafee.html.

  • Install software to limit or eliminate the volume of spam you receive.

HD For The Masses

Published September 17, 2007, 8:33 pm | by tony

I've been considering a switch to DirecTV. Suddenlink, my local cable provider doesn't offer ANY of the major four networks in high definition. Initially when I signed up, I was told that I would get NBC, CBS, ABC and FOX all in HD.Low and behold, it ain't so. In fact, without paying extra for HBO or CINIMAX, I only get something like 7 HD channels, and one is in Spanish.

So, I checked with DirecTV who claims to have over 100 HD stations by the end of the year.

Wow, I can get 9 HD channels from DirecTV, and get this - none include ABC, NBC, CBS or FOX. Thanks.

Idea two: try to get MythTV to record digital cable / HD. In researching capture cards for MythTV I stumbled across this little gem from PcHDTV.

And, it's cheaper than what I paid for my analog Hauppauge capture card. I might just have to try that out!