Lifestyle

4 Types Of Phishing Attacks And 10 Signs To Know A Phishing Email

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4 Types Of Phishing Attacks And 10 Signs To Know A Phishing Email

Phishing is a type of social engineering attack built on manipulating and deceiving people to reveal confidential and private information which is then used to carry out further crime against them.  This attack takes advantage of gullibility and vulnerability of human emotion to steal from people. Phishing attacks have become a popular, easy to use and very dependable tool for cyber criminals. When in operation; criminals would reach out to users through any communication channel, pretend to represent a legitimate authority; maybe a financial service provider, health insurance provider, a family member or trusted friend, proffer assistance, then request for inimical action from the user. Actions that maybe required from users during phishing attacks include but not limited to; Reveal private and confidential information, e.g. password, date of birth, social security number, BVN, code, etc. Click a link that will further direct users to secondary resource where confidential information will be stolen. Open attachment which in most case will contain malwares that will launch further attack on the device and network. Request for cash to enable a staged problem to be solved. Reveal a sent code to enable completion of a proposed solution. With automation and Artificial Intelligence dominating and directing modern interactions and commerce, people shall depend more on digital channels of communication. Available facts have proven that oftentimes, phishing attacks regardless of its type have more success rate than failure. This means more people are falling victim to these exploits. Hence, the benefits of deepening your understanding about them. Let’s dive into four common types of phishing attack. And how to identify email based phishing attack. Four types of phishing attacks. Spear phishing – this type targets specific category of persons, e.g. insurance or bank customers, students, male mine workers, etc. Whaling attack: is a sub-spear type of attack that targets high net worth and high-profile individuals like company executives, politicians, celebrities, etc. Just like implication of the name “Whale” biggest fish – this attack targets only “big fish”. That is, wealthy people. Smishing attack: this is an SMS based phishing where short message service is used to deceive a receiver into providing private and confidential information or taking other action. This is catchy because, it does not require internet connectivity to hit its intended targets. Vishing attack: this type is a direct opposite of smishing. It uses voice call to reach out and deceptively request for confidential and private information from receiver. In the same vein, internet connectivity is not required to execute this attack. Ten Signs to know a phishing email It will come from a stranger: oftentimes phishing emails come from unknown person or agent. It will come from a public email domain: examples of public email domains are yahoo.com, gmail.com, hotmail.com. Domain name will either be misspelt or corrupted: when it pretends to come from private domain, such domain will never spell correctly as the genuine one. There will be a form of misspelling or corruption of it. It will disguise as proffering assistance: merchants of phishing attacks always pretend to offer one form of assistance or the other. Shylock assistance you may call it. The mail content will be poorly written: content of mail will likely lack expected quality of a business communication. Mail will include suspicious attachment or link: this would require further actions like follow or open. It calls for urgent action: whatever is the call for action from phishing attack always comes with “urgency”. It will request user to provide personal information to enable closure of an event. It may request user to send cash to enable a staged problem to be solved. It will appeal to a defined sentiment. Phishing is a low end and cost-effective tool for cybercrime. It is a social engineering attack that exploits inherent weakness in people to get through and steal from them or carry out other crimes against targets. Getting basic knowledge about method of attacks and the techniques to identify them is a better way to go to prevent being a victim. ALSO READ: Cybersecurity Threat Of Social Engineering

Travel Security Understanding TSA Approved Locks

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Travel Security Understanding TSA Approved Locks

Travel security refers to measures taken by an intending traveler to ensure protection for self and luggage. In an increasing global village, travelling both local and overseas has become a routine part of most corporate duties especially for executive personnel and others based on personal demands. Travel security speaks to millions of people who throttle around the globe periodically for one purpose or the other. For each trip security and safety should be of significant concern and must be synonymous with such trip. TSA means Travel Security Administration. TSA is an agency of US Department of Homeland Security. It has authority over the security of transportation systems within the United States. This agency was created as part of response to September 11, 2001 attacks on US to improve airport security protocols in harmony with other federal law enforcement agencies. One of the key recommendations of Travel Security Administration is a specified luggage lock known as TSA lock. A TSA-approved lock is any lock that has approval of TSA and authorized to emplaced Travel Sentry logo – the red diamond. When it comes to securing your travel luggage, using a TSA-approved lock is important for hassle-free trip. These locks feature a universal master key that may allow TSA agents to open and relock a luggage without having to cut or destroy such luggage lock. TSA-approved locks are gaining traction within global air transportation system. Although, each state has their individual air travel security regulations and practices, however most of them are adapted to TSA approved type when it comes to luggage lock. It is however, recommended for intending travelers to check the country’s specific luggage lock standard in advance of any trip. See the benefits of using TSA-approved lock on your luggage when travelling. • It will give you peace of mind. • It shows your knowledge of travel security. • It will ensure security of your personal effects. • It will align you to international travel requirement • It saves you the embarrassment of having your luggage lock cut or destroyed during routine airport security checks. Types of TSA-approved luggage locks There are specific types of these locks currently in open market. One striking feature to look out for as symbol of TSA approval is the “red diamond” logo. • Combination lock: this requires a specific combination of digits to lock and unlock. • Key lock: requires insertion of key and twist of tumbler to unlock. • Cable lock: allows for a sort of chain lock of multiple luggage together. Where to buy TSA Locks Local Stores: the keys can be found in most local travel stores or malls in the airport or within the community. Online Stores: notable online stores like Amazon, and Alibaba also sell TSA locks. In conclusion, travel must be synonymous with safety and security. While thinking safety first is crucial during any trip, the security of personal belongings oftentimes packed in luggage during such travel should also receive baseline attention. By understanding what a TSA lock is and its purpose, you should align your travel security to this regulatory requirement, at same time secure your luggage within acceptable standard. ALSO READ: Solo Travels

An Ultimate Guide to Starting a Plant-Based Diet: How to Get All Essential Nutrients for Optimal Health

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An Ultimate Guide to Starting a Plant Based Diet

What is the ultimate guide to starting a plant-based diet? How do you get all the essential nutrients for optimal health? Embracing a plant-based diet can offer numerous health and environmental benefits. However, making the transition requires careful and diligent planning to ensure you’re meeting all your nutritional needs. This guide will walk you through the essentials of starting a plant-based diet while maintaining optimal nutrition. What is a Plant-Based Diet? A plant-based diet focuses primarily on foods derived from plants, including vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. While some people following this diet may occasionally consume animal products, others opt for a fully vegan approach. Regardless of where you belong in this spectrum, the key is to emphasize whole, minimally processed plant foods. Essential Nutrients to Consider in a Plant-Based Diet Plan When transitioning to a plant-based diet, these nutrients needs to be considered and incorporated into your meal plan: Protein: Contrary to popular belief, getting enough protein on a plant-based diet is achievable. Good sources include legumes, tofu, tempeh, seitan, quinoa, and various nuts and seeds. Iron: Plant-based iron sources include leafy greens, legumes, fortified cereals, and dried fruits. Combine these with vitamin C-rich foods to enhance absorption. Vitamin B12: This nutrient is primarily found in animal products. Consider B12-fortified foods or supplements to meet your needs. Calcium: While dairy is a common calcium source, plant-based alternatives include fortified plant milks, leafy greens, and calcium-set tofu. Omega-3 fatty acids: Flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, and algae-based supplements can provide these essential fats. Zinc: Found in whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Vitamin D: While sunlight is the primary source, fortified plant milks and mushrooms exposed to UV light can also provide vitamin D.   Steps on how to Start Your Plant-Based Journey Gradual Transition Start by incorporating more plant-based meals into your diet. Try designating one or two days a week as a ‘no meat day’ and gradually change from there. This approach allows your body and taste buds to adjust while you learn new recipes and cooking techniques. 2. Focus on Whole Foods Build your meals around whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables. These foods are nutrient-dense and will help ensure you’re getting a wide range of vitamins and minerals. 3. Experiment with New Foods Explore unfamiliar plant-based ingredients like nutritional yeast, tempeh, or jackfruit. These can add variety and help replace nutrients typically found in animal products. 4. Plan Balanced Meals Aim to include a source of protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats in each meal. This balance will help keep you satisfied and energized. 5. Learn Plant-Based Cooking Techniques Familiarize yourself with cooking methods like roasting vegetables, preparing bean-based dishes, and creating flavorful sauces to enhance your meals. 6. Stay Hydrated Adequate hydration is crucial for overall health and can help with the increased fiber intake that often comes with a plant-based diet. 7. Consider Supplements Depending on your specific diet and needs, you may want to consider supplements, particularly for vitamin B12, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids. Consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized advice. 8. Plan for Social Situations Prepare strategies for dining out or attending social gatherings. Many restaurants now offer plant-based options, but it’s helpful to check menus in advance. 9. Monitor Your Health Pay attention to how you feel as you transition to plant based diet. If you experience persistent fatigue, digestive issues, or other concerns, consult a healthcare professional. In conclusion, remember, transitioning to a plant-based diet is a journey. Be patient with yourself and celebrate small wins along the way. Focus on adding nutritious plant foods rather than simply eliminating animal products. With proper planning and a varied diet, you can thrive on a plant-based eating pattern while ensuring you’re meeting all your nutritional needs. As you embark on this new dietary adventure, stay curious, be open to trying new foods, and listen to your body. Over time, you’ll likely discover a world of delicious, nourishing plant-based options that leave you feeling energized and satisfied. ALSO READ: 5 Nutrient-Rich Foods for a Powerful Skin Glow. 

20 Safety and Security Tips For Hotel Guests

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20 Safety and Security Tips For Hotel Guests

Hotel is known for leisure and pleasure. It is a place where people run to when there is need for home away from home, exciting experience, relaxation, fun, corporate meetings, conferences, seminars, etc.  Everything about it revolves around exciting and exclusive experience. The industry has been enjoying very wide patronage across globe due to increasing need for people to move around, take time out, and experience a place away from regular work or home environment; sometimes it offers a combination of business and pleasure. Hotels sell excitement and experience open to anyone who can afford it; this presents peculiar challenges to ensure safety and security of guests. Challenge of maintaining improved guests experience and ensuring adequate protection for guests and assets at same time. Operators have demand to ensure integration of safety into hotel ambience. Guests and others visit hotels with various motives. Travelers, fun seekers, business people, criminals, hawkers, barons, gangs and organized underworld groups, etc. patronize hotels for one purpose or the other. The hotel must meet their expectations, else next call may not be possible. Good hotel security system will promote the vision and the mission of the business and still guarantee less security incident. The sure way to go about this is through deterrence-oriented policy and standard rooted on robust security infrastructure, personnel training and guest awareness. This article is guest-centric. It is written for hotel guests. It places the responsibility on the guest to ensure practice of recommended tips to minimize risk of safety and security incident while lodging. As a security or safety manager who has responsibility to proffer risk advisory to employees that seek accommodation in hotel this piece is a ready assistance. Every hotel guest should see themselves as personal chief security officer to self. Reason for this; in some part of the world some people operate a death row under the guise of hotel. As such, instead of selling leisure and experience, they sell pain and calamity to innocent visitors who would never think that such lodge is license to death. Some types of safety and security threats guests may be exposed to in hotel include: Food & drink poisoning Drug & substance abuse Property damage Property theft Pilfering Ritual killing Kidnapping Fire or arson Cyber attack Sexual assault Assassination Pool drowning Armed robbery Physical Assault Excessive indulgence See below 20 Safety and Security Tips To Practice When Lodging in Hotel Research the hotel ahead scheduled lodge, and check online reviews. Do quick mental assessment of the premise and the Front Office Look out for outdoor and indoor CCTV cameras. Ensure the name in public view is the same with name on receipt or transactional document. Nameless hotel has higher risk, variation in name is a clue to safety risk. Share hotel name and location with a trusted person. Note, google map or other digital tool can be used to gather this information. Check strength of the door and the lock. Check door peephole and have it covered from inside. Check all covered or hidden areas in the room; such as under bed, behind curtain, covered roof or floor, bathroom, closet, mini bar, locker/save, adjacent door (if any) etc. Locate nearest emergency exit and check to be sure it is functional. Put off all lights in the room, use your phone camera to scan for hidden cameras (note, this does not work in all phones). Ensure panic alarm device is provided in the room. Ensure Front Office and Security intercom contacts are provided. – if possible, get contact of nearby local Police. Know your room number. Never open door to strange or unexpected knocks. Keep room door partially opened during scheduled or emergency housekeeping. Avoid room on clumsy floor or area. Secure your valuables in locked pack e.g., room locker, your luggage, etc. Do not always trust free public network. Avoid sharing confidential information when using it. Maintain situational awareness at all times. Contact external source for assistance when unfolding incident seems out of hand. Hotels promise experience in form of leisure, glamor, excitement and taste. However; lurking within this cosmetics may be security threats lethal enough to cost life. Always exercise some self-help practices some of which have been highlighted on this piece. Wishing you safe and exciting experience in advance of any hotel lodge. ALSO READ: Traveling with kids: Family Travel Tips for Parents

Eight Benefits of Planting Trees in Residential Areas

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Eight Benefits of Planting Trees in Residential Areas

Planting trees in residential areas offers numerous benefits that go beyond just improving the aesthetic appeal. Trees contribute to healthier environments, reduced energy costs, and overall well-being. Here are eight significant benefits of planting trees in your residential neighbourhoods. 1. Releases Stress-Relieving Hormone – Phytoncides Trees release a chemical called phytoncides, which have been scientifically proven to reduce stress and anxiety levels. Phytoncides are organic compounds emitted by trees, particularly coniferous species, that have a calming effect on us, humans. Studies show that being in the presence of trees and green spaces significantly reduces cortisol levels in the body, helping us feel more relaxed. This is why spending time in parks or tree-filled environments leads to better mental health and a more peaceful state of mind. Ecological Restoration Trees play a critical role in ecological restoration, particularly in urban and residential areas where human activities have led to environmental degradation. By planting trees, we help restore natural ecosystems. They also contribute to maintaining the balance in local ecosystems, which in turn supports cleaner air, and water, and improved soil health. Temperature Reduction One of the more noticeable benefits of trees is their ability to reduce ambient temperatures in residential areas. Through the process of transpiration, trees release moisture into the air, helping to cool their surroundings. In addition, their leaves provide shade, reducing the amount of heat absorbed by buildings and roads. This cooling effect can lower the temperature in residential areas by several degrees. The presence of trees can help reduce the need for air conditioning, leading to energy savings and a more comfortable living environment. Encourages Biodiversity Residential areas with trees are essential havens for biodiversity. Trees provide habitat and food sources for various species, including birds, insects, and small mammals. As a result, they promote greater biodiversity in urban environments, which are typically less hospitable to wildlife. The presence of diverse species enriches local ecosystems and contributes to a more balanced environment. By planting native tree species, you can further enhance biodiversity, supporting the survival of local wildlife and plants. Reduction of Accidents Trees can play a surprising role in reducing accidents in residential areas. By strategically planting trees along roadsides, visibility is enhanced, and natural barriers can be created, preventing pedestrian-vehicle collisions. Additionally, studies show that tree-lined streets tend to encourage drivers to slow down, making your neighbourhoods safer for pedestrians and cyclists. The calming effect of trees can also contribute to reducing road rage, resulting in more careful and attentive driving. 6  Controls Soil Erosion One of the major environmental benefits of planting trees is their ability to control soil erosion. Trees anchor the soil with their roots, preventing it from being washed away during heavy rainfall. This is particularly important in residential areas with sloping landscapes or in regions prone to flooding. By stabilizing the soil, trees help protect residential infrastructure from erosion-related damage, reducing the risk of property loss and preserving the natural landscape. Reduction of Noise Pollution Trees act as natural sound barriers, reducing noise pollution in residential areas. Their leaves and branches absorb, deflect, and block sound waves, making homes in tree-filled neighbourhoods much quieter than those in treeless areas. This benefit is especially valuable for residents living near busy streets or highways. A tree-lined street can reduce noise by up to 50%, creating a more serene and peaceful living environment. This improvement in sound quality can significantly enhance your quality of life, contributing to your overall well-being. Sucks in Carbon Dioxide and Releases Oxygen One of the most well-known benefits of trees is their ability to absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) and release oxygen. This process is essential for maintaining air quality, particularly in urban areas where pollution levels tend to be higher. Trees act as carbon sinks, absorbing CO2 that would otherwise contribute to global warming. In exchange, they release oxygen, which is crucial for human and animal life. By planting trees in residential areas, communities can help mitigate the effects of climate change while improving air quality for all residents. ALSO READ: 7 Health Benefits Of Aforestation

Security Implications of Dark Web

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Security Implications of Dark Web

Dark web is one of the three layers of web on the world wide web; other are surface web and deep web. This article highlights some of the activities on dark web and their overall security implications. Surface web: also known as clean or visible web is a part of the web for public use. This is where most people routinely use every day for their online needs through search engines like google, Bing, yahoo, LinkedIn, YouTube, Facebook, and company websites. One of the unique features of surface web is that its web resources are indexed by search engine, thereby making them searchable and accessible. It is a powerful but fraction part of the web which is said to constitute about ten percent of web resources. No login credential is required to access most websites on surface web. Deep web: this is the web beyond surface web. The web resources on deep web are not searchable by search engines; and they require authentication (that is, login credentials) for access. Deep web play host to reserved and protected data which is not for public consumption. Such reserved data may include but not limited to government record, medical record, financial record, classified military records, online library resources, organization websites for internal use and other related data. Deep web is reported to playing host to about ninety percent of entire web resources. Dark web: also known as darknet is a subset of deep web. The striking features of this layer of web is that it is the deepest part of the web and it is only accessible through a special web browser known as TOR (The Onion Router); and overlay networks such as I2P. The strongest attraction of dark web is its anonymity (secrecy) For instance, TOR resources loudly guaranteed users of protection against tracking, surveillance and censorship. Dark web is also reported to constitute about five percent of deep web. Dark web, generally known as underground web market for criminals and other merchants of illegality is also used by genuine and law-abiding people for purpose of information gathering and sharing while remaining anonymous. See below, some type of information mostly traded on dark web and their security implications: Stolen information: confidential and personal information such as login credentials, passwords, codes, pin, social security number, payment card details, etc. are exchanged on dark web for facilitation of cybercrimes. Breached data: stolen information like classified government records, account details, company trade secrets, customer details, payrolls, medical records, intellectual properties, company financial records, etc. are traded on dark platform and used to commit various crimes against the owners and sometimes the public. Fraud guide: various cyber criminal forums use dark web to recruit and train cyber fraudsters through sharing fraud guide resources. These guides further drive s and promotes multiplication of criminals. Hack guide: cyber criminals use dark web as hands-on academy to train hackers. This in turn drives and promotes multiplication of cyber criminals who prowl the internet to carry out crimes against individuals and organizations. Malwares: different types of malicious wares such Ransomware, DDoS, Trojan horses, infested USB and other plug-n-play devices are sold on dark web. These malwares are then used to lunch attacks against the public. Drug peddling: drug cartels across the globe use dark web as a market place for sourcing, distribution and retail of control substances. The substances then spread with wide implications for both users and non-users, Gun running: illegal trade of guns and ammunitions amongst criminal merchants have identified as one of the notable trades on dark web platform. Illegal use of guns inevitably drives violent crimes and leads to destructions of lives and properties. Human trafficking: criminal merchants also carry out trade of humans for purpose of forced labor and sexual exploitation through dark web. This inhuman criminality is a huge assault on humanity and a drain on human resources. In conclusion, dark web is a special kind of web, used by special kind of people and for special kind of purpose. While its original intent for creation was genuine however; like other resources, its been overtaken by criminals who hide under its anonymity to engage in trades that holds so much risks to individuals and corporate organizations. ALSO READ: Entrepreneur: 7 Reasons Why You Need A Website

5 Ways to Manage a Healthy Gut for Optimal Well-Being

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5 Ways to Manage a Healthy Gut for Optimal Well Being

5 Ways to Manage a Healthy Gut for Optimal Well-Being As humans, having a healthy gut plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health. It boosts not only digestion, but also the immune system, mental health, and energy levels. Your gut naturally contains trillions of bacteria that influence these functions, which makes them important to nurture this environment. A gut environment with more harmful bacteria than beneficial ones, can lead to various problems such as bloating, constipation, or even more serious health problems. Fortunately, there some effective dietary and lifestyle changes that will help you achieve and manage healthy gut.   Eat a Balanced diet, rich in fiber One of the important factors in gut health is a balanced diet but most importantly, a fiber-rich diet. Fiber helps to keep your digestive system running smoothly, by bulking up stool and moving it smoothly through the intestines. It also acts as food for the beneficial bacteria in your gut. Eating this type of diet also enhances digestion, reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. Incorporating a variety of fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains into your daily diet helps nourish your gut microbiome and supports digestion. Foods like apples, bananas, carrots, lentils, and brown rice are excellent choices for gut-friendly fiber. Incorporate Probiotics and Prebiotics Probiotics and prebiotics are essential for maintaining a proper balance of good bacteria in your gut. Probiotics are live bacteria when administered in adequate amounts function like the beneficial bacteria found in the gut. Popular probiotic-rich foods include yogurt and kimchi. These foods help to introduce and increase the population of beneficial bacteria in your gut. Prebiotics, on the other hand, are types of fiber that feed the good bacteria already present in your gut, helping them grow and thrive. They also improve gut motility. Common sources of prebiotics include garlic, onions, and bananas. The combination of probiotics and prebiotics in your diet, will aid a thriving gut for digestion and immunity. Stay Hydrated Hydration plays a critical role in keeping your gut healthy.  Drinking water and staying hydrated aids digestion, motility, eliminate waste and lubricate gut lining. Dehydration can affect your digestive system and lead to constipation and other digestive discomforts. It is medically recommended to drink at least eight glasses of water a day, although individual hydration needs can vary depending on factors such as age, activity level, and climate. Water-rich fruits and vegetables, like cucumbers and watermelon, are also great ways to boost hydration. By ensuring that your body stays hydrated, it is beneficial for your gut to get the moisture it needs to function effectively.   Limit Processed Foods and Sugars A diet high in processed foods and sugars can cause a negative impact gut health. They enhance the growth of harmful bacteria in the gut, which can lead to an imbalance known as dysbiosis. Processed foods are often low in fiber and nutrients, thereby contributing to digestive disorders. To maintain a healthy gut, it’s important to reduce your daily intake of highly processed foods. Instead, consume whole, nutrient-rich foods that promote gut health, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and lean proteins. Manage Stress Stress and lack of sleep can have a significant impact on your overall health and that includes your gut health as well. The gut and brain are closely connected through what’s known as the gut-brain axis, meaning whatever stress is exerted on your brain will negatively impact your gut. High levels of stress can lead to symptoms such as bloating, gas, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). To manage stress, relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, sleeping or deep breathing exercises can be carried out or incorporated into your regular routine. Regular physical activity can also help reduce stress levels and improve digestion. Aim to sleep for an average of 8hours per night to allow your body to repair and maintain a healthy digestive system.   Conclusion Maintaining a healthy gut requires a combination of both change in dietary plan and lifestyle. Therefore, eating a balanced diet rich in fiber, incorporating probiotics and prebiotics, staying hydrated, limiting processed and sugary foods, managing stress and getting adequate sleep, you can support your gut’s health and, in turn, your overall well-being. These will help keep your digestive system in balance, promoting better digestion, immunity, and energy levels required for proper body function. Also Read : Stay Young And Healthy The Right Way

5 Food Security Measures to Ensure In Your Homes

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5 Food Security Measures to Ensure In Your Homes

                                          5 Food Security Measures to Ensure In Your Homes   Food security is a critical global issue that needs to be addressed, with 1 out of 9 people suffering from hunger. Food security according to the World Health Organization (WHO), is defined as ‘when all people have physical, social, and economic access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food that meets their dietary needs and food preferences for an active and healthy life’. We live in a time of economic instability and uncertain climate. Accessing nutritious food, is important now than ever. The foundation of food security starts at home but it is now a major challenge for households worldwide. Ensuring your family’s access to nutritious food is crucial for stability and sustainability. This will protect your household from food shortages and increase your resilience. This article will discuss 5 ways to can protect your home, each offering a practical guide on how to empower your household against food insecurity.   Proper Meal Planning Meal planning is a very essential tool that helps protect your home from food insecurity. It ensures food availability, reduce unnecessary food wastage and promotes healthy living. A proper guide to carry out this plan is; Assessment of each family member’s dietary needs- it is important to put this into consideration while planning. Creation of a weekly food plan- meals for an entire week should be planned Making a food item or grocery list- this itemizes everything you need for meal preparation. Shopping for food items- purchase of listed items should been done, also, remember to check the expiry date of good products you purchase if you’re going to be buying in bulk or storing for a long time.   2. Proper Food storage This is another important means to ensuring food security in your home. Food storage will help prevent spoilage and contamination of food items, prevent wastage and increase the shelf life of food. Some tips to ensure proper food storage are; Dry storage for grains- clean and air tight containers should be used to store grain products such as beans and rice to help prevent contamination and spoilage. Refrigeration of perishable products at 40°F(4°C) Proper labelling of containers or bags used for storage for proper identification. Non-perishable goods such as canned foods should be stored well too.   3. Growing your own food Cultivating your own food in your backyard or that unused land can help boost food security. It helps to increase food availability, reduce cost of external food supply, as a food source during emergencies. If you want to start cultivating your own food; Prepare an organic fertilizer rich soil Start will small crops to grow Plant the seeds, water them regularly to ensure efficient growth When it’s harvest time, harvest carefully to avoid wastage and properly store the excess product harvested.   4. Pest Control Pests are organisms that destroy plant and crops. This can cause food insecurity in a home. Effective pest control helps protect your crops or food items against damage, reduce food wastage and contamination. Reduce pest infestation by; Proper food storage Ensuring the kitchen and storage area is clean always. Use of pest repellants plants.   5. Emergency food supply During financial or economic crises, emergency food supply will protect your household against food insecurity.  Stock non-perishable food items such as canned goods in bulk. Examples of food items that should be classified as emergency food supply are canned meat, vegetables, grains, water.   In conclusion, each home has to be protected against food insecurity by all means. Therefore, proper meal planning, food storage, encouraging gardening, pest control and emergency food supply will help empower a household against food insecurity. All these should be known and implemented to promote food security in a home! Also Read : How To Promote Food Security Through Security In Nigeria

Oral Health: A Guide to Oral Hygiene

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Oral Health: A Guide to Oral Hygiene  Maintaining good oral health is very important for an overall wellbeing of a person. A lot of times, people tend to overlook the importance of oral hygiene, ignorant of the fact that poor oral hygiene can lead to various oral conditions and even systemic disease. The oral cavity(mouth) is a portal of entry into the body and therefore, proper care is crucial. This article will provide practical guide to ensure optimal oral hygiene and maintain oral health. What is Oral health and hygiene? A state by which the oral cavity is completely free from disorders or diseases that can impact its function is referred to as Oral health. Oral health includes the health of the teeth, gums, cavities and surrounding tissues in the oral cavity. Oral health can be achieved by proper Oral hygiene. Oral hygiene refers to practices that are ensured to maintain oral health. These practices have to be carried out daily, and it’s in fact a long term commitment. Oral hygiene practices such as brushing twice daily, flossing, use of mouthwash etc. can help achieve a healthy oral cavity. Here are some healthy hygiene tips to improve your oral health;   Regular Teeth Brushing Brushing your teeth regularly is very important for achieving oral health. Brushing twice a day is advised- in the morning before eating and at night before going to bed. This practice will help remove dirt, bacteria and food particles from your teeth to help prevent tooth decay and diseases. The use of soft toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste is highly recommended. And hard toothbrush can affect or injure your gums. To ensure proper brushing, the entire surface of our teeth should be brushed, and this should be for at least 2 minutes.   2. Dental Flossing Proper oral hygiene also involves dental flossing as it is also required to achieve oral health. Flossing helps to remove dirt, bacteria or food particles that are stuck in between your teeth or underneath your gums. For proper flossing to be done, you have to gently guide the floss in between your teeth and underneath your gums to prevent injury to your teeth and avoid bleeding. Flossing your teeth daily helps prevent bad breath, tooth loss and gum diseases.   3. Rinsing with Mouthwash Mouthwash is used for oral hygiene as it helps to kill bacteria in the mouth, prevents bad breath and also, remove plaques. Mouthwash was not made to replace tooth brushing but it is like a supplement for oral hygiene maintenance. Mouthwash with fluoride are highly recommended for use. To use a mouthwash, pour into the mouth, and let it stay for 60 seconds before spitting it out, and do not swallow it!   4. Proper tongue cleaning Tongue cleaning is an important part of oral hygiene. The tongue is a muscular part of the oral cavity and therefore can accumulate dirt/debris. A tongue scraper or toothbrush can be used to clean the tongue regularly, and this should be done twice daily to prevent bath breath, infections or decay of the tooth.   5. Regular Dental check-up Visiting your dentist is strongly advised. A regular Dental check-up is important for thorough examination of your teeth, gums and entire oral cavity. Oral advice and treatments can also be carried out. This check-up can be done twice a year.   6. Healthy eating habits Eating healthy can also promote good oral health. A well balanced diet supports healthy teeth, gums and an overall oral health. Food such as fruits, vegetables, milk, protein and even water to stay hydrated, should be incorporated. Sugary and acidic food should be limited to prevent tooth decay. The key to having a healthy oral cavity lies in good oral hygiene practices. Brushing, flossing, use of mouthwash, tongue washing, dental check-ups and eating healthy can help you achieve an overall oral health. A daily practice of the tips mentioned above will ensure you a lifetime of strong teeth and healthy gums. Also Read: Wearable Devices: The Impact On Personal Health

Domains Of Security And How They Impact Lives

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Security appears to be synonymously connected to almost every aspect of human existence. Sociologically; society, in all ages has been functioning through contribution of interdependent human interactive silos. Every arears of human interactions although has exclusive social identity, is however, inherently designed to be mutually inclusive of others. To maintain effective functionality, such endeavor must not be threatened by any variable. Whenever any aspect of human interaction is faced with existential threat, it becomes a security concern to the society. Today’s world is increasingly becoming insecure; filled with threats from many fronts. Failed state and political instability, protracted crises and violent conflicts, persistent poverty, natural disasters, epidemics and pandemics, economic meltdown, etc. have imposed hardships on people and decrease chances for peace and stability. The above scenario is challenging to contemporary society; and it posses multiple forms of threats that overlap to create a complex domain of safety concern. Security in the context of this piece refers to a state of freedom from all threats. The concept of threat points to any person, group of persons; and any activity carried out by human, or act any of nature, etc. that has potential to disrupt or terminate the functionality of a subsystem. This “freedom from threats” is expected to translate to efficiency, peace, harmony, growth, development, increase/abundance, progress, advancement, fulfillment, happiness, joy, etc. See below, areas of human endeavor where perception of threat is oftentimes a significant source of concern to society. Human security: this aspect is concern with overall safety and security of people. United Nations refers to it as freedom from want, fear and to live a life of dignity. Anything that threatens dignity of a people is principally robbing such a group their safety. Any society deprived of human security will stagnate and be very far from peace and stability. Job security: this area deals with one’s source of livelihood and the chances that it will remain gainfully active for a reasonably long period without threat. Where this longevity is perceived to be uncertain, fear of insecurity would become the order. Food security: this aspect refers to when all people, at all times have unhindered access to sufficiently safe and nutritious foods that meet their daily needs. Any situation that disrupts food value chain is serious threats to life. Cultural security: this aspect deals with respect and regard for traditions and cultural values, and norms that are unique to a given people in a society. Health security: refers to control measures and activities required to be in place in a society to keep public health system functioning well to guarantee a healthy people. Where there is loss of confidence in public health; such a place is under threat of failed health system. Wealth security: this exists when the treasured possessions of a people are free from threats. Such possession may include technologies, buildings, money, innovations, and other assets. Financial security: this areas refers to freedom from monetary worries and debts, ability to comfortably meet all financial obligations, and availability of enough money for safekeeping. That is a condition of having stable income especially from two or more legitimate sources. Economic security: this domain points to when a society has stable, interrupted and trusted mode of wealth creation and distribution. In order words; it means a system that promotes well-regulated and unhindered flow of value creations, commercial transactions, productions, positive market forces and exchange of values. Information security: in this information age; this aspect focuses on activities centered on keeping information technology and other related infrastructure free from threats. Environmental security: refers to healthy practices of a community that assist to keep the environment free from man-made hazards, and generally promotes sustainable development. These domains highlighted above, and others not mentioned are significant to continue survival of contemporary society. Whenever they are threatened by either activity of human or by natural forces, the impacts can affect society in negative ways. ALSO READ: Determined Attacker – The Secret Destroyer