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ARE NEW HOME TECHNOLOGIES INVADING YOUR PRIVACY?

February 26, 2019

Renters Beware of Possible Hacking Through Your Devices

Could new home technologies be invading your privacy at your rental home? That question has come into focus recently when Google announced it had placed hidden cameras inside the Nest Secure home security system. Google failed to mention the microphone when the product went on the market in 2017. Earlier this month, Google made an announcement on Twitter about updating the software of Nest and activating the microphone.


“The on-device microphone was never intended to be a secret and should have been listed in the tech specs. That was an error on our part. The microphone has never been on and is only activated when users specifically enable the option,” a Google spokesperson said in an email to CNET.


READ: 3 Smart Technologies for Renters


Last month, a San Francisco family’s Nest password was pilfered from a third-party breach. The hacker frightened the family by convincing them that the US was under nuclear attack from North Korea. Another hacker took over the Nest camera from a man in Arizona and warned him of security susceptibilities. Most hackers don’t have your best interest at heart.


This is not the first time Google has gotten into hot water over privacy issues. The company is already facing a $57 million fine in Europe for violating the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation.


There are also potential hacking problems with infant monitors, cell phones, even your web searches could provide hackers with a plethora of personal info. The best prevention is education. National and international laws have not yet caught up with all the privacy challenges that come with the creation of these new digital technologies.


One of the best ways to avoid unsettling and invasive attacks is by using two-factor authentication for all your divides from now on. Two-factor authentication requires users to provide two types of verification when they want to sign in. When it comes to creating your actual password, make sure you customize it. This means using a “passphrase” that is at least 12 characters with a mixture of upper- and lower-case letters, symbols, numbers and/or spaces. And use a unique password for each account.


In truth, any home device connected to the Internet can be hacked, from printers to “smart” refrigerators. That’s why it is so important to safeguard all your smart devices. Above all, we need to respect the rights of autonomy, anonymity, association, and expression that privacy makes possible, while also taking into account legitimate law enforcement concerns.


We’ve just scratched the surface on how smart technologies invading your privacy. As West Ventura County’s premier full-service Property Management, we believe knowledge is power so the more you know about these potential dangers, the better you can protect yourself.  ReMax Gold Coast represents premier long-term rentals in Hollywood Beach, Silverstrand, Mandalay Shores, Port Hueneme, Oxnard Shores, Seabridge, Westport, Mandalay Bay, Oxnard homes and condos, Ventura Keys, Pier Pont, Faria, Solimar & Rincon BeachPark beaches and Ventura and Camarillo, please call us at +1 (805) 832-4075.  We also represent some of the best vacation rentals in the area. If you’re planning to move or looking for the perfect vacation home, be sure to check out our list of exception properties!
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Stay Sane at Home With the Help of Your Pet

By Kristina Brewer • March 25, 2020
While Americans are increasingly isolated from one another during the coronavirus pandemic, we can take comfort in the companionship of our pets — and even have some fun while we’re at it. “I think in times of uncertainty and fear, you latch onto the things that are constant,” Dr. Marty Becker, a veterinarian and founder of Fear Free Happy Homes, told TODAY. “It’s that predictability when we come home from work or shopping — or even the next room — and our pets greet us like conquering heroes or rock stars. That’s rooted in unconditional love and loyalty, and laughter as well. … They’re actually good for us. It’s all about emotional well-being.” Play Games Since most dogs are food-driven, there are many games you can play together. Try creating a scent hunt by hiding little bits of kibble or treats around the home — under the bed, at the side of a dresser, or the top of stairs. Dogs absolutely love a game of hide-and-go-seek! Fun for Homebound Kids If children are home from school, they can create do-it-yourself projects and make toys for their pets. Cats love batting at feathers tied to the end of a stick or string because it engages their prey drive. You can even use those delivery boxes. Just cut holes in a box to create a whack-a-mole game for your dog. Grooming & Pupcakes Pets often enjoy being combed or brushed or having a smear of peanut butter or squeeze cheese on the side of the tub during a bath. You can try cooking pet-friendly recipes for treats or “pupcakes” as a special reward. Or if your pet is on a diet, snack together on carrots, blueberries or apples. At mealtime, instead of using a bowl, scatter kibble in the yard to engage their hunting instincts. Photograph Your Pet You can also use treats to get the perfect Instagram photo of your dog. Here are some dog photo tips from the experts: • Remember to get down on their level to see what they see. • Look for interesting angles. Don’t photograph the obvious. • Look for light. Window light is absolutely beautiful and watch for those sun rays streaming through your window blinds and landing on your dog or cat. • Photograph your pet with other friends in the house, whether it be another pet, stuffed animal or human. • Fast shutter speed and great light always help, which can be tricky when indoors. Having your pet next to a window will help with that. #WorkingFromHome Photos When working at home, consider pulling another chair next to your desk so your pet can sit right beside you. It makes for terrific #WorkingFromHome photos when you need a break. As West Ventura County's premier full-service Property Management, ReMax Gold Coast , we have represent several pet friendly long-term rentals in the area including The Mellow Yellow Bungalow located in Hollywood Beach. Just call us at +1 (805) 832-4075 and we’ll help you find the perfect home with your four-legged family members.

Oxnard’s Award-Winning Yoga Channel Studio Goes Digital

By Kristina Brewer • March 23, 2020
The Award-Winning Yoga Channel Studio is now broadcasting yoga classes LIVE. Here’s what students have to say about the new online classes: • "It was awesome. Thanks so much!" • "How fantastic to share and see virtually friends and to have our dogs with us!" • “Super easy to set up from my home laptop and lots of fun.” Message from Yoga Channel Studio Steward It was clear to the Yoga Studio steward, Aurora, that everyone needed some community and connection right now. “I understand, that for most of us, this is not our first choice in taking yoga classes,” explains Aurora, “but it is what we have to offer right now. We hope that you support us, even if it is not your first choice, in understanding that if you don't support these classes now, there might not be any IN STUDIO YOGA CLASSES in the future.” As everyone knows, what WE do now, will determine our future, including the future of the popular healing space in Port Hueneme. In the three years since Aurora has become the steward of the Yoga Channel, she has had to maneuver three major national disasters. “Each time, the studio has taken a hit,” Aurora said. “The studio will not sustain itself without community support. TODAY. And let's not forget about your instructors, whose livelihood may depend on their teaching. If you have the means, please continue to support them and the studio. If not, please share this newsletter or some of our social media posts. Now students from anywhere can take our classes!” How to Join To join in one of the LIVE Yoga classes from anywhere, just register and LOGIN TO YOUR STUDENT PORTAL HERE to PRE-REGISTER for your class. You can also access your STUDENT PORTAL, through the website's homepage . Once, you have done this, you will have the option on the STUDIO SCHEDULE to "VIEW BROADCAST." When you click on the VIEW BROADCAST link, a window in ZOOM will appear for your class. Depending on your device, you may have to add the program. Remember, when you register for your classes to login to your account. Joining from your laptop or computer, may provide a more fulfilling experience. If you join from your mobile device, the class disappears from the schedule once it starts, so join early. Early registrants will be provided an email link, as a backup, prior to the start of class. As West Ventura County's premier full-service Property Management, ReMax Gold Coast , we are committed to bringing our long-term renters the most updated community info in light of the coronavirus. Meantime, if you are looking for a new place to live, we’re here to help. Just call us at +1 (805) 832-4075. We also oversee some of the best vacation rentals in the area so when the time comes to get back outside, contact us.

Setting Up a Home Office That Works for You

By Kristina Brewer • March 19, 2020
Since the coronavirus outbreak, more and more people are working from home. That means our renters need a workable home office. Here’s how to create a snazzy one that will make you look forward to clocking in. 1) The essentials Some experts have said there are only two essentials for a functional home office: a comfortable chair and a door that closes. Most people, however, probably have a few more requirements. Basic elements of designing a room include smart space planning, adequate lighting and sufficient storage. When setting up your home office, also consider functionality and comfort. 2) Get horizontal Start with your work surface. Stock desk units come in a variety of materials but may be difficult to fit in with your room. Modular office furniture is more flexible and comes in many styles. Or look to repurposed furniture. With some judicious changes, you can turn flea market finds and antiques into acceptable home office elements. Don’t hesitate to make a piece your own with a simple coat of paint in your favorite color. 3) Take a seat Chairs need to be functional, but an office chair isn’t your only choice. If you’ll be spending a lot of time working in the office, consider including a lounge chair or chaise. It will make a comfortable spot for reading or coffee breaks. For your desk, choose a chair with an adjustable seat and armrests to protect your spine and help reduce aches and injuries. To personalize it, add a throw pillow to coordinate with window coverings or other decorative elements in the room. 4) Essential details Make a list of everything you need, from pencils and paper clips to research materials and file folders. Pick a color scheme and purchase the necessities in your favorite palette. Measure all the electronic equipment you’ll require to determine where it will fit best. And make sure you add some favorite framed photos or artwork to inspire you. To create softness and texture underfoot, layer on an area rug to anchor your space. 5) Light it up Natural light is great, and we have it in abundance here in Ventura County. But you’ll still need ambient and task lighting too. Here is another opportunity to add a bit of personal style to your space via lamp shades, crystals and fixture finishes. Watch out for the possibility of glare, especially when finding a place for your computer screen. If your office space doesn’t have a door, you can establish a sense of privacy by the way you orient your work surface or by using a screen or file cabinets to mark off the area. RE/MAX Gold Coast represents home rentals in prime areas of Ventura County with the perfect space to set up your home office. Our portfolio includes the Boat Dock Unfurnished Home located in Mandalay Bay pictured at the top of this blog. With 1510 square feet, and three bedrooms, three baths, there’s plenty of room in this fully furnished rental. Upstairs, you’ll find custom built office space complete with bookcases and a desk. Or, if you need more than one office, you could covert one of the three bedrooms into a fully functioning office. We have other rental homes in prime spots from Hollywood Beach, Silverstrand, Port Hueneme, Oxnard Shores, Seabridge and Westport, to Mandalay Bay, Oxnard homes and condos, Ventura Keys, Pier Pont, Faria, Solimar & Rincon BeachPark beaches and Ventura and Camarillo. Just call us at +1 (805) 832-4075 and we’ll help you find the perfect home for you to set up the perfect home office. Share your favorite ways to spruce your office space — we can’t wait to see what you come up with!
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