Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
The ACP is a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) program that helps connect families and households struggling to afford internet service.
The Benefit provides:
Up to $30/month discount for internet service
Up to $75/month discount for households in qualifying Tribal Lands
A one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet purchased through a participating provider
Click to see if you qualify
Digital Literacy Glossary
Look up common terms you may encounter as you use your computer or device or navigate the internet.
LiteracyCNY's Guide to the Affordable Connectivity Program
Learn how to apply, locate participating providers, and about protections for participants.
Computer Basics Reference Guide This two-page guide reviews computer basics including the parts of a keyboard and computer mouse, simply keyboard commands, file management and other essentials for someone new to using a computer.
Computer and Internet Basics Work at your own pace through Typing.com’s Digital Literacy modules on the basics of using a computer and navigating the internet. Make a free account to save and track your progress.
GCF Global Internet Skills Develop your internet skills for free using these self-paced tutorials, where you’ll get tips for staying safe online, using social media safely, setting up an email, and much more. Make an account to save and track your progress. GCF Global also offers over 200 free articles and tutorials on topics ranging from basic image editing, career planning, social media, and more.
Beginner’s and Senior’s Guide to Computers This extensive website goes through the basics of computer operation, using the internet internet, data, security, email, hardware, software. A passion project by a web developer with over 40 years of experience. Beginner’s and Senior’s Guide to Computers also has a blog and Youtube channel with video tutorials.
Techboomers.com Learn how to use sites, apps, and devices for free! They publish articles and videos that include introductions to popular websites and apps that describe what they are and how they can be useful. They also have lists of trips and tricks for certain websites, apps, and programs. Also check out their important primers on how people can protect their safety and privacy online against viruses, spyware, and scammers.
Senior Planet by AARP Senior Planet is a website that offers free classes, articles, videos, and activities to help seniors learn new skills. With a goal to connect older adults to tech and it’s many benefits, they offer free online classes, publish articles, and video tutorials.
WhatIs.Com by TechTarget A reference and self-education tool about information technology. The site provides readers with definitions for over 10,000 terms and 1,000 fast references, cheat sheets and quizzes.
Internet Safety and Cyber Security Reference Guide A brief overview of creating effective passwords and staying safe while navigating the internet.
Typing.com Free beginner, intermediate, and advanced typing lessons, account can be made to save progress. Make a free account to save and track your progress.
Typingclub.com Free to use and includes 650 typing games . Keep practicing each lesson until you get all five stars. Make a free account to save and track your progress.
Ratatype.com A free, simple and convenient online typing tutor for everybody who wants to type better. Turn on game mode to make lessons more fun. Make a free account to save and track your progress.
Gmail Reference Guide A free web-based email service that provides users with 15 GB of free storage for messages and the ability to search for specific messages. Gmail, otherwise known as Google Mail, can be accessed from a personal computer, tablet or any Android or iOS device.
Are you new to email? Check out this Email Etiquette Reference Guide.
Google Chrome Reference Guide A free web browser produced by Google that fully integrates with it’s online search system as well as it’s other applications.
Google Docs Reference Guide An online word processor included as part of the free, web-based Google Docs Editors suite offered by Google. Google Docs is a free alternative to Microsoft Word by Windows.
Google Drive Reference Guide A cloud-based file storage service from Google. It also offers a free software suite that includes a word processor, and many others for spreadsheets, presentations, drawing, and several others.
Google Sheets Reference Guide A spreadsheet program included as part of the free, web-based Google Docs Editors suite offered by Google. Google Sheets is a free alternative to Microsoft Excel by Windows.
Google Slides Reference Guide A presentation program included as part of the free, web-based Google Docs Editors suite offered by Google. Google Slides is a free alternative to Microsoft PowerPoint by Windows.
Are you new to making presentations? Check out this Effective Presentations Reference Guide.
Google Meet Reference Guide A video communication service developed by Google. Anyone with a Google Account can create a video meeting with up to 100 participants and meet for up to 60 minutes per meeting for free. Meetings beyond 60 minutes and/or 100 participants are available by subscription.
Google Calendar Reference Guide A time-management and scheduling calendar service developed by Google.
Google Forms Reference Guide A survey administration software included as part of the free, web-based Google Docs Editors suite offered by Google.
Zoom Reference Guide A communications Platform that allows users to connect with video, audio, phone, and chat. Using Zoom requires an internet connection and a supported device. Most new users will want to start by creating an account and downloading the Zoom client for Meetings. Click here to learn more about Zoom and the system requirements to run Zoom on a device.
Move from Android to iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch Instructions from Apple on how to transfer data from an Android device to an iPhone.
Move from iPhone to Android Instructions from Samsung on how to transfer data from an iPhone to an Android device.
Move Android to MAC PC Instructions from Verizon on how to transfer data from an Android to a MAC PC.
Samsung Support Page A searchable page for operating all Samsung mobile devices, including set-up, basic operations, and advanced uses.
Samsung User Manuals Provides links to the PDFs of all Samsung mobile device models, and provides instructions on how to access the user manual on your phone.
iPhone User Guide A searchable user guide on learning the basic of operating an iPhone.
iPhone support page A page of various weblinks for different iPhone uses including how to back up your data, managing your Apple ID, etc.
iPhone Forum A community forum for troubleshooting iPhone devices.
iPhone Manuals Type your device name into the search bar and view it’s user-guide. Did you know that you can access device manuals on every Apple device? Download Apple’s books app, type “Apple Inc.” into the search bar and you will see all of their manuals.
Apple Support on Youtube Tips and how-tos straight from Apple.
iPad User Guide A searchable user guide on learning the basic of operating an iPad.
iPad Support Page A page of various weblinks for different iPhone uses including how to back up your data, managing your Apple ID, etc.
Apple’s iPad Forum A community forum for troubleshooting iPad devices.
Apple Support on Youtube Tips and how-tos straight from Apple.
MacBook Pro Essentials An Easy to Navigate Guide by Apple for all MacBook Pro devices. Use the site’s table of contents to learn how to set-up your device, what apps come with your device and what they’re for, FAQ’s, keyboard shortcuts, security features, and more!
MacBook Air Essentials An Easy to Navigate Guide by Apple for all MacBook Pro devices. Use the site’s table of contents to learn how to set-up your device, what apps come with your device and what they’re for, FAQ’s, keyboard shortcuts, security features, and more!
Mac Tips for Users Switching from Windows Devices Learn how to perform some common tasks
on your Mac and popular keyboard shortcuts.
MacBook Manuals Type your device name into the search bar and view it’s user-guide. Did you know that you can access device manuals on every Apple device? Download Apple’s books app, type “Apple Inc.” into the search bar and you will see all of their manuals.
MacBook Forum A community forum for troubleshooting MacBook devices.
Apple Support on Youtube Tips and how-tos straight from Apple.
New to Chromebook Switch to a Chromebook, set up your Chromebook, migrate from Cloud Print, set up your printer, Chromebook security.
Chromebook accessibility Find accessibility features.
Chromebook shortcuts Chromebook keyboard shortcuts.
Chromebook support Chromebook help.
Chromebooks are an affordable option for someone looking to purchase a laptop.
Chromebooks run on ChromeOS, an operating system that has cloud storage, the best of Google built-in, and multiple layers of security. Chromebooks differ from other devices in that they’re limited when it comes to multi-media features. They also cannot run software that doesn’t work with Chrome OS. For example, you can not operate any of Microsoft’s applications on a Chromebook.
Lifeline is a federal program that provides up to a $9.25 monthly discount on service for eligible low-income subscribers and up to $34.25 per month for those on Tribal lands.
Note: You may receive the lifeline benefit and the ACP benefit together if eligible.
The Lifeline program is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC). USAC is responsible for helping consumers apply for the program, understand eligibility requirements, and keep their benefit current through an annual recertification process. Subscribers may receive a Lifeline discount on either a wireline or a wireless service, but they may not receive a discount on both services at the same time.
Lifeline also supports broadband Internet service and broadband-voice bundles. Note: FCC rules prohibit more than one Lifeline service per household, you may receive the lifeline benefit and the ACP benefit together if eligible. Lifeline is available to eligible low-income consumers in every state, commonwealth, territory, and on Tribal lands.
Eligibility Requirements:
You can get Lifeline if your income is 135% or less than the Federal Poverty Guidelines (see the table below). The guideline is based on your household size and state. You can get Lifeline if you (or someone in your household) participate in one of these programs:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Head Start (only households meeting the income qualifying standard)
- Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (Tribal TANF)
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
You may have to show proof of participation, like a benefit letter or official document, when you apply for Lifeline. You can get Lifeline if your child or dependent participates in any of the programs listed above.
After you qualify, choose a phone or internet company near you that offers the Lifeline benefit and sign up for service with them. You can also ask your current company to apply your Lifeline benefit to a service you are already getting if it offers the Lifeline benefit. Once they sign you up, you will start getting your Lifeline benefit.
Providers that offer Lifeline Benefit:
SafeLink Wireless
Assurance Wireless
QLink Wireless
Standup Wireless
Connect All sells refurbished laptops, Chromebooks, desktops, tablets, and monitors at low cost. They also offer Internet Service through Mobile Citizen if you qualify.
Why Buy from Connect All?
It helps others: Your purchase helps Under-Served Communities Gain Access to Technology.
Good for the environment: Reusing Working Computers is up to 20 times more energy efficient than recycling them.
Good for your budget: A refurbished computer is generally 30% less expensive than a comparable one.
This program provides:
- Desktop & Laptop Computers
- Tablets & Accessories
- Low-Cost Internet
Eligibility Requirements:
Connect All serves both Non-Profit Organizations and income-eligible customers.
For nonprofits and charity organizations: please sign up for an account on ConnectAll.org and upload your organization’s EIN and 501(c)(3) determination letter to become an approved buyer.
To qualify as an income-eligible customer: please submit documentation when you create an account showing current participation in a government-based assistance program or this year’s tax return (showing proof of income under 200% of the federal poverty level or 60% of median area income).
These verification documents include:
- Food support:
- SNAP/EBT card with name (required dated letter of eligibility or enrollment)
- National School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program
- WIC Voucher
- Approval Letter with name from any of the above programs
- Medicaid Enrollment Statement
- Housing assistance:
- Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program award letter (LIHEAP)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Section 8
- Group Residential Housing (GRH)
- Section 42
- Low-Income Housing Tax Credit or other HUD low-income program
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
- Veterans Pension or Survivor Benefits
- Lifeline
- Child enrollment in Head Start
- Federal Pell Grant
- The most recent year’s tax return showing that your annual household income did not exceed 200% federal poverty level (FPL) or 60% area median income (AMI)
- Lives in Qualifying Tribal Lands or part of these programs:
- Tribal TANF
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
- Tribal Head Start
At Human-I-T, creates equitable access to opportunity by providing devices, internet access, digital skills training, and tech support for communities left on the wrong side of the digital divide—while at the same time, empowering businesses and organizations to do good by diverting technology from landfills to protect our planet.
Did you know that Human-I-T participates in the Affordable Connectivity Program? This means that if you qualify for the Affordable Connectivity Program, you can apply your internet service discount and one-time device discount to their low cost internet services and devices.
They believe access to technology is a right, not a privilege. It’s what allows people to study remotely, apply for jobs, attend telehealth appointments, connect with distant family, or explore new ideas and perspectives.
This program provides:
– Laptops & Tablets
– Low-Cost Internet
– Digital Training
– Tech Support
Eligibility Requirements:
Proof can be submitted electronically, through text message, or in-person
at one of our locations at the time of purchase.
Government Assistance Program Accepted Proof:
- SNAP / EBT
- Medi-Cal / Medicaid
- SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
- SSDI (Social Security Disability)
- NSLP (National School Lunch Program)
- Public Housing Assistance or Section 8 voucher
- Lifeline
- Cal Grant Financial Aid
- Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
- California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE)
- Head Start
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
If the household does not receive any government benefits, they may provide proof of their yearly gross income. Households that make 250% of the federal poverty level threshold qualify for donations. Any documentation provided to prove income level must display dollar amounts that can be used to figure Annual Income. Must include the number of members in the household on purchase application.
Accepted forms of proof of income include:
- The prior year’s state, federal, or tribal tax return
- A Social Security statement of benefits
- Federal or tribal notice letter of participation in General Assistance
- A Veteran Administration statement of benefits
- A retirement/pension statement of benefits / Social Security benefits
Please note:
- Pay stubs are not accepted
- SNAP/EBT, Medi-Cal/Medicaid cards alone are not accepted.
A letter/document that confirms the active benefit is required. - The documentation must be dated within the last 6 months and it must be an active benefit.
- Households will be required to submit eligibility every 15 months.
If you meet the above eligibility requirements, please click either of the buttons below to access low-cost computers or low-income internet plans today.
If You’re Not Eligible
Don’t worry if you don’t meet the income eligibility requirements. You can still find plenty of low-cost computers, tablets, and smartphones from brands like Apple, Dell, HP, Intel, and Lenovo at our eBay store.
Plus, all proceeds from our eBay store go directly towards our efforts to shrink the digital divide and the e-waste stream.
PCs for People is a national nonprofit social enterprise working to get low-cost quality computers and internet into the homes of individuals, families, and nonprofits with low income. By recycling and then refurbishing computers, PCs for People provides a valuable service to businesses, families, and the planet by keeping computers out of landfills and repurposing them to advance digital inclusion.
Did you know that PC’s for People participates in the Affordable Connectivity Program? This means that if you qualify for the Affordable Connectivity Program, you can apply your internet service discount and one-time device discount to their low cost internet services and devices.
This program provides:
– Refurbished Desktop and Laptop Computers
– Low-Cost Mobile Internet
– Affordable Computer Repair
Please visit the website for more information about acceptable eligibility documentation. If you have questions about documentation that is not listed on the website, please contact one of the offices by phone or email. Any proof of eligibility is subject to approval by PCs for People staff. Additional documents may be required to unquestioningly prove income or enrollment in government assistance program. Once you have your documentation ready, there are three ways to send it in, online while placing an order, by email, or by faxing it to 651-666-1045.
Eligibility approval for online orders may take up to 2 business days. If you are eligible, you can purchase computers online, or come to one of our stores where computers are available ranging from $0 to $150.
Eligibility Requirements:
Qualifying Income-Based Assistance Programs
- Adult & Child Mental Health Case Management
- Employment Services (only if income-based in your state)
- Extended Foster Care
- Food Support (a dated letter showing current eligibility is required)
- Financial Assistance, such as GA, TANF, etc. (a dated letter showing current eligibility is required)
- Head Start
- Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
- Medicaid or Medical Assistance (bring a document that says “MA” or “Medical Assistance” on it)
- The National School Lunch Program’s Free or Reduced Lunch Program
- Section 8, Federal Public Housing Assistance, or Group Residential Housing (GRH)
- Section 42, Low Income Housing Tax Credit unit or other HUD low income program
- Social Security Disability (SSD)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Pell Grant
Qualifying Income Documentation
- The prior year’s state, federal, or tribal tax return (W2 forms or pay stubs are not acceptable)
- A Social Security statement of benefits
- A Veteran Administration statement of benefits (VA cards alone are not accepted)
- A retirement/pension statement of benefits
- An Unemployment/Workmen’s Compensation statement of benefits
- Federal or tribal notice letter of participation in General Assistance
Computers with Causes provides a refurbished computer gifted by generous donors towards an educational, future learning program, foster home or disabled veteran in need.
This program provides:
– Refurbished computers
They do a strict need assessment, background, and reference check, which helps us eliminate false requests and benefit those truly in need. They have a very limited volunteer staff and strive to meet all application demands in a timely manner.
Be advised that if you are currently receiving assistance from one or more of these sources (TANF, SSI, SSDI, Welfare, Food Stamps, etc..) acceptance of tangible property, gifts, financial assistance or services (Additional income) may affect or terminate your current benefits.
Please do not call their phone lines. Their phone lines are dedicated to accepting donations.
Complete the form and tell them why you are a candidate for a gifted computer. After the application is submitted, we will review the information provided, then review our inventory, and if we are able to assist you then you will be contacted within 30 days. All applications are valid for 30 days, so if you do not hear from us within that time frame then you can apply again.
Working to connect every student
Project 10Million is an initiative aimed at delivering Internet connectivity to millions of underserved student households. The program offers free Internet and free mobile hotspots – and access to low-cost laptops and tablets. They believe access to education is access to opportunity. That’s why they’re offering free hotspots and internet to 10 million eligible households.
This program provides:
- Free 100GB of internet per year for 5 years
- Free hotspot with free shipping.
- No fees, costs, or annual re-certifications.
Your child can qualify for Project 10Million through eligibility for the National School Lunch Program, which also can be verified through participation in many government programs, including:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) via P-EBT or EBT
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)
- Community Eligibility Provision (CEP)
- Medicaid
- Head Start
- Foster youth, migrant, homeless, or runaway youth
It only takes 5 minutes to apply and you’ll have it for 5 years. Plus, there are no annual fees or re-certifications. Check eligibility or see the list of qualifying program
Affordable devices for hybrid learning.
Once you’ve signed your family up for Project 10Million, you can purchase these affordable devices at-cost through your account or at your nearest T-Mobile store.
- Samsung Chromebook 4
- Lenovo 100e Chromebook
- Lenovo 100e Windows PC
- TCL Tab 8 LE
Maven Technologies LLC is the first Certified Electronics Recycler™ in New York State and the eleventh in the United States. They are dedicated to providing their customers with a full range of life cycle management services for their computers, telecommunications, and electronics.
They serve both residential and commercial communities throughout New York State.
Maven Technologies has an online Ebay account were you can purchase quality PC and Apple products: Computers, Monitors, Printers, Components, Peripherals and other Electronic Products.
The Shore Foundation refurbishes donated corporate computers and provides them to people in need within the community through relationships with local schools and non-profit-organizations.
Over the last 5 years The Shore Foundation has donated over 2,250 refurbished computers to non-profit organizations and schools in Upstate New York.
How to Choose the Right Computer for You
With dozens of options, choosing the right device to match your needs can be overwhelming.
To start, here are the best questions to consider when purchasing a personal computer:
- What is your budget?
- What are you going to use the device for?
- Working from home, schoolwork, socialization, gaming, etc.
- Do you want a laptop (portable) or desktop (stationary)? If you want a laptop, do you want a 2-in-1, where the laptop can function as a tablet with touch screen features? Check out this 3-minute video that provides an overview of machines available today.
These questions, especially your budget, will help you narrow your options. Computer retailers have professionals that can recommend specific products for you based on your answers to these questions.
We recommend doing research on a product before you purchase it. Major computer retailers have review sections for their products on their websites. Another great resource for product reviews is Youtube. You can find a variety of reviews just by looking up “reviews for [insert device name here].” For example: “Reviews for Dell Inspiron 17 Laptop.”
Taking Your Research to the Next Level
If you really want to go the extra mile when researching products, you can investigate the device’s components to get an idea of the capacity of the machine you would be buying. PC hardware specifications, or specs, are a summary of a computer’s internal components and other system information.
Note: An in-depth knowledge of computer specs is not necessary when purchasing a computer. By answering the questions above and seeking the recommendation(s) of a professional, you can be confident in finding and purchasing a device that will meet your needs.
Computer Hardware Specifications for Your Consideration
Operating System (OS): Refers to the powerful program that controls and coordinates a computer’s hardware devices and runs software and applications. Today, most devices have one of three: MacOS, WindowsOS, or ChromeOS.
Processor/Central Processing Unit (CPU): Provides the instructions and processing power the computer needs to do its work. The more powerful and updated your processor, the faster your computer can complete tasks.
Processor Speed: Measured in gigahertz (GHz) the higher the rating, the higher the performance of the computer’s processor.
Random Access Memory (RAM): Measured in size by gigabytes (GB), RAM stores short-term data that a PC requires to properly operate. The more RAM a device has, the better it will perform.
Storage capacity: Measured in gigabytes (GB), this refers to the capacity of the storage on a device, i.e. how many photos, videos, documents, etc. your device will store.
Internet Safety and Cyber Security Reference Guide This guide provides a brief overview of creating effective passwords and staying safe while navigating the internet. Print it out and keep it in your laptop bag, or tape it to the wall by your desktop PC.
Guide to Online Safety This free guide will teach you how to be safer online. You’ll learn how cybercrooks use fear, urgency, and other emotions to manipulate victims. Then you’ll learn how to recognize specific threats, like phishing and dangerous links. Finally, you’ll learn how to use best security practices to stop cybercriminals in their tracks and limit the damage that comes from online breaches.
There are two ways to create a strong password:
1) use a combination of lower and uppercase characters, special characters (&^%) and numbers;
2) create a long passphrase, a sentence or a phrase that includes a combination of upper- and lower-case letter, special characters, and punctuation (example: Syr@cusew1ntersarec0ld!)
When making a password, avoid the following:
- Do not use your network username as your password.
- Don’t use easily guessed passwords, such as “password” or “user.”
- Do not choose passwords based upon details that may not be as confidential as you’d expect, such as your birth date, your Social Security or phone number, or names of family members or pets.
- Don’t use a consecutive string of numbers such as “1234”
Email is an old technology, and it is inherently flawed. Consider following these guidelines to make yourself and your personal information more secure. Consider using Gmail for your email account(s). It is less susceptible to spam and phishing than yahoo, Hotmail, Frontier, and AOL. Here are reccomendations for keeping your email secure. Are you new to email? Check out this Guide to Email Etiquette.
Consider Using Two Email Accounts
Use one email account for family/friends, and another account for all business transactions. Why? Some companies will sell your data, and having a second account limits your exposure.
Email Safety Do’s and Dont’s
- If you suspect that your account with a business has been compromised, change your email password immediately.
- Change your password from time to time.
- Apply all software updates to your devices.
- Don’t send sensitive information by email.
- Don’t store sensitive information in cloud services like Evernote and Dropbox.
Email Spam
Spam is simply unsolicited emails sent to many recipients. For example, you book a hotel through Hotels.com and suddenly you’re receiving dozens of email promotions from hotels.com.
Remedies for Spam:
- Unsubscribe to company emails, at the bottom of the email you’ll find the unsubscribe link in small print.
- When you create accounts online, look for settings that allow you to regulate the emails you receive.
- Report the email as spam, your email provider will then prompt you to send future messages from the sender to your spam or junk folder, depending on your provider.
- Delete emails in your spam/junk folder. Remember first to review all emails in the folder, since some legitimate emails will end up there. When in doubt, report and delete.
What is Phishing?
Phishing is the fraudulent practice of attempting to acquire sensitive data or personal information including passwords, credit card numbers, etc. While phishing commonly occurs through email, phishing attempts are also made by phone, through text messages, and direct messages (aka DM’s) on social media. Sometimes, the phishing attempt appears to be from someone you know or from a company you’re doing business with.
How to Recognize Phishing
- Always check the email address of the sender. Many phishing attempts will make a subtle misspelling of a legitimate domain name. Example: A phishing email sent from someone pretending to represent Bank of America might have sent an email from ‘bank0farnerica.com.’ Did you notice that in ‘of’, the ‘o’ has been replaced with a zero, and that in America, the ‘m’ has been replaced by ‘rn?’
- Phishing messages often contain poor spelling and grammar, if the wording of an email claiming to be from a professional company and organization is suspicious, it is most likely a scam.
- Never click on a link or attachment in a suspicious email or text message, especially one from a first-time or infrequent sender. Phishing scams often claim that you should call, click, or open an attachment immediately to invoke fear or a sense of urgency.
- Always report phishing to your email provider, and block numbers that have sent phishing texts or made calls to your phone.
- Text or call the individual or company listed as the sender to verify the email is legitimate. Do not forward the email before verifying that it is legitimate.
Hackers and Cybersecurity professionals put a lot of time and effort into making fraudulent websites look as legitimate as possible. Sometimes even going through the effort of creating a fake website Here are some ways to check if a website it legitimate or trying to scam you.
- Carefully Look at the Address bar and URL: Be sure that the site is secured by looking at the address bar (URL) to see if there is an “s” in the URL, which should look like this “https://”to start with or has a lock symbol in the address bar. This does not guarantee against a scam site, but it shows that the site owner is using secured encryption processes to transfer data and protect itself from hackers.
- Check the Contact Page: Review the options for contacting the company. If you don’t see multiple options (phone, email, live chat, or physical address) then proceed with caution.
- Review the Company’s Social Media Presence: Most legitimate companies have some social media presence and activity. If you see the social media icons on their website, see if they link to a social media channel, and review the company reviews and see if you can find real employees of the company on LinkedIn.
- Double Check The Domain Name: Scammers will tend to create “similar” domain names to trick the user into thinking they are on a legit site, like Yah00.com or Amaz0b.net, making subtle changes that you may not even notice. Always double check the address bar to see if you have been redirected to a website that is not legitimate.
- Look Up the Domain Age: It is easy to look up the age of a website domain. Verifying the age of a site helps provide you with confidence that it has been in business for an established amount of time. Scam and fake sites usually have a short lifespan as they are rooted out early and shut down by legitimate business site owners.
- Watch for Poor Grammar and Spelling: Legitimate company websites will take great care in having a professional looking site. An excess of spelling, punctuation, and grammar errors could mean the website went up quickly. Occasional typos on a website can happen, but excessive errors could mean you are not on a legitimate site.
- Walk Away If It’s Too Good to be True: Though it is a common practice for some retailers to provide large price discounts on items to move inventory or promote a new product or service, if you find a site that offers an unbelievable deal, then think twice before continuing. If it’s too good to be true, then it probably isn’t legit.
- Do Your Research: A simple online search for the company’s reviews will tell you a lot about the business. See how recent the reviews are and if you see proactive responses from the company (where available.) Use the Better Business Bureau to research the reputation of a company.
Check back for information on internet safety for social media users!
Cover letter sample – A PDF that shows what an ideal cover letter looks like
Cover letter template – A Word document that you can use to start a cover letter
Cover Letter Tips
- Where possible, show up to 10 years of continuous employment. It is the customer’s preference whether to show more
- Include volunteer positions under Professional Experience when there are employment gaps
- Parsers (algorithms) use a hierarchy that is based on employer preferences. That’s why it’s imperative to use key words and list career highlights and qualifications/skills at the top of the resume
- Write a resume around the job description
- Write different resumes for different jobs/industries
- Show on-going education and learning (this makes the resume stronger)
- Eliminate all spelling and factual errors
Resume sample – A PDF that shows what an ideal resume looks like
Resume template – A Word document that you can fill in to create a resume
Resume key words – A PDF that provides key words to use on resumes and in cover letters for different jobs
Resume worksheet – A PDF document that can be printed and given to a customer before you start to create
Resume Tips
- Where possible, show up to 10 years of continuous employment. It is the customer’s preference whether to show more
- Include volunteer positions under Professional Experience when there are employment gaps
- Parsers (algorithms) use a hierarchy that is based on employer preferences. That’s why it’s imperative to use key words and list career highlights and qualifications/skills at the top of the resume
- Write a resume around the job description
- Write different resumes for different jobs/industries
- Show on-going education and learning (this makes the resume stronger)
- Eliminate all spelling and factual errors
Online Account and Application Record – An Excel spreadsheet to track job applications, record online account information, and write progress notes
- CNYWorks Aids job seekers wondering how to find a job in the area or are currently employed seeking to brush up your their skills. They have an extensive system of services to help individuals you reach their goals. By providing the latest in tools, training and resources, they help job seekers identify and secure employment in Central New York.
- NYS Dept of Labor Account sign in, job information, job listings.
- Unemployment Insurance (NYS Labor Dept) Claim or certify benefits.
- ID.me Unemployment verification
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Computer Basics Reference Guide This two-page guide reviews computer basics including the parts of a keyboard and computer mouse, simply keyboard commands, file management and other essentials for someone new to using a computer.
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Are you new to email? Check out this Email Etiquette Reference Guide
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Are you new to making presentations? Check out this Effective Presentations Reference Guide
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Setting SMART Goals Quick Reference Setting goals involves creating a plan to motivate and guide individuals to the desired end result. The SMART methodology is a goal-setting tool used to make aspirations more achievable.
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Managing Meetings Quick Reference Learn tips to increase meeting effectiveness.
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Time Management Quick Reference Learn to plan out your available time and control the amount of time you spend on specific tasks in order to work more efficiently.
- OCM BOCES Offers full-time certification programs, part-time continuing education classes, business and industry training, and adult literacy and high school equivalency classes.
- CNYWorks Aids job seekers wondering how to find a job in the area or are currently employed seeking to brush up your their skills. They have an extensive system of services to help individuals you reach their goals. By providing the latest in tools, training and resources, they help job seekers identify and secure employment in Central New York.
- Syracuse Educational Opportunity Center Provides innovative academic programs leading to higher education, and vocational training programs leading to gainful employment and economic self-sufficiency.
- Syracuse City School District Adult Ed/Sidney Johnson Vocational Center The programs in our Adult Education program are designed to assist you in the development of your skills and knowledge for today’s workplace.
- Resource Center for Independent Living Provides real solutions to the personal, social or governmental barriers that may prevent your decisions from being respected and realized. We have four decades of experience in providing individually tailored advocacy, information, and training services.
- Empowered Pathways The mission of Empowered Pathways is to help people create self-directed solutions and move forward with their lives through education, advocacy, and empowerment.
- Working Solutions Aids job seekers wondering how to find a job in the area or are currently employed seeking to brush up your their skills. They have an extensive system of services to help individuals you reach their goals. Their office serving Oneida, Madison, and Herkimer Counties is in Utica, NY.
- Literacy Outreach for Madison County, NY A not-for-profit literacy service that trains volunteer tutors and recruits adult learners who are seeking assistance in reaching their literacy goals.
- Madison-Oneida BOCES Preparing adults for the future is the goal of the BOCES Consortium of Continuing Education (BCCE). Programs provide education and job training skills that are essential in today’s technology.
- Oneida-Madison-Herkimer BOCES Through the Madison-Oneida BOCES in Verona, N.Y., continuing education programs are provided for adults in the areas of basic education, high school equivalency preparation, non-career and technical education courses and career and technical education courses.
- Herkimer-Fulton-Hamilton-Ostego BOCES Services for adults include basic education high school equivalency, adult literacy, adult practical nursing education and more.
- The Center: Resource Center for Refugees in Mohawk Valley Serves refugees, immigrants, newcomers, and non-native English-speaking residents of the Mohawk Valley region.
- Rescue Mission of Utica Aids men, women, children, and families in meeting physical, mental, emotional, spiritual and practical needs.
- Mohawk Valley Institute for Learning in Retirement Provides opportunities for local seniors to “learn, live, grow, move, think, socialize, and create” since 1996.
NYS Dept of Motor Vehicles – Register for a permit or license, renew your car registration, etc.
NYS Medicaid – New York’s Medicaid program provides comprehensive health coverage to millions of lower-income New Yorkers
NYState of Health Official Health Plan Market Place–Browse low-cost, quality health insurance options
NYS Social Programs – Learn about Social Programs offered for low-income individuals/households, people with disabilities, and veterans
NYS myBenefits – Create or login to your NYS benefits account to register for HEAP, SNAP, recertify your benefits, and more
NYS ACCESS (Adult Career & Continuing Education Services) – Resources to serve the education and employment needs of adults in New York State
Directory of all NYS Agencies – Locate the website, social media, and up-to-date contact for information for all NYS departments, agencies, and committees
Directory of all NYS Services – Find out how to apply for and access services such as the Empire Pass, applying for the Excelsior Scholarship, or starting an LLC
Government Benefits, Grants, and Loans – Learn about government programs that provide fiancial help for inidivudals and organizations
Medicare – Medicare is health insurance for people 65 or older. You’re first eligible to sign up for Medicare 3 months before you turn 65. You may be eligible to get Medicare earlier if you have a disability, End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), or ALS (also called Lou Gehrig’s disease).
ID.me Informational Video ID.me provides secure identity proofing, authentication, and group affiliation for government and businesses across sectors.
ID.me Instructions from New York State on how to setup and protect your ID.me account.
Onondaga County
211 CNY A free service that connects callers to critical health and human services in their community. Their navigator will provide resources that could help you or your client. If you’re unable to find a service, dial 2-1-1 for assistance. This website is for Onondaga County only.
Madison, Oneida, and Herkimer Counties
211 Mid York A free service that connects callers to critical health and human services in their community. Their navigator will provide resources that could help you or your client. If you’re unable to find a service, dial 2-1-1 for assistance. This website is for Madison, Oneida, and Herkimer counties only.
NYS Dept of Taxation & Finance –Access tax information, file state returns, etc.
Internal Revenue Service – Access tax information, account sign-in, file federal returns, etc.
National Grid – Gas and electric company.
Spectrum – Television, phone, and internet service provider
Affordable Connectivity Program “Companies Near Me” Tool – Find out if a company in your area, or your current internet provider participates in the Affordable Connectivity Program. You can search using your Zip code or your city and state. If you would like to see the full list of options, click on “see the list of companies in your state” underneath the search results. Click here to learn more about the Affordable Connectivity Program and if you qualify.
NYS Housing Resources by Region
US Department of Housing and Urban Development: New York State Housing Authorities
Onondaga County
Madison County
City of Oneida Housing Authority
Oneida County
City of Utica Housing Authority
People First (Utica Municipal Housing Authority)