Computer and internet briefs

Nov 27, 2011, 3:06 GMT

Standby taboo for computers with sensitive data

Berlin (dpa) - Those who have sensitive data on their computer should always shut down their device completely and not use the idle, standby or blocking functions. Otherwise professional hackers can often read the keys still remaining in the memory, warns the IT magazine iX. Should there be any doubt about the encryption of the hard drive, users should also always set a BIOS password or - if possible - a password for the TPM security module and not allow the computer to be automatically booted. In general, you should not let a running computer with sensitive data out of your sight.

Import a dictionary into Microsoft Office

Berlin (dpa) - Microsoft Office's dictionary is capable of learning as terms that are not listed can be added by users. But these additions are gone with a new installation. The dictionary, however, can be saved and exported. Starting with the 2007 version, it can be found in My Documents in the user name's folder under 'Application Data/Microsoft/Proof'. Users must save the file with a '.dic' ending to an external source such as a USB stick. Then start Word on the computer where the dictionary should be used and then click Options in Extras. The dictionary can be imported under Spell-check and grammar with the command 'dictionary' and 'add.'

Add-on hides disruptive elements of websites

Berlin (dpa) - A new extension for the Google browser Chrome is designed to improve the reading of articles and blog entries on the web. Evernote's add-on Clearly can hide disruptive elements such as navigation menus, ads or links. In addition, multi-page entries will be automatically formatted onto one page of text.